State of the Industry 2026: Resilience in a changing market 

Presenting research from the 11th annual State of the Industry Report at this year’s National Conference, Peter Clay, Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s General Manager of Research and Insights, outlined the key trends shaping the sector across manufacturing, RV supply and registrations, accommodation performance, domestic travel demand and the broader economic outlook.

Here are some of the key takeaways and projections from Peter’s presentation.

Domestic demand remains strong 

Australians took 17.3 million caravan and camping trips during 2025, generating 57.9 million visitor nights and $12.6 billion in expenditure. 

While Australians are still travelling, they are increasingly prioritising value. Average trip length has fallen to 3.4 nights, with travellers taking shorter, closer-to-home holidays and making decisions later. 

Importantly, 87% of caravan and camping trips continue to take place in regional Australia, reinforcing the industry’s critical contribution to regional communities and economies. 

Record caravan park revenue 

Caravan parks generated a record $3.3 billion in revenue in 2025, an increase of 7% year-on-year or approximately $207 million. 

Occupancy and revenue improved across cabins, powered sites and unpowered sites, supported by higher rates and stronger yield. New South Wales also exceeded $1 billion in annual caravan park revenue for the first time. 

RV ownership continues to grow 

Australia’s registered RV fleet increased by 4% to approximately 937,000 vehicles in 2025, including more than 817,000 towable RVs and 119,000 motorised RVs. 

This expanding ownership base provides a strong foundation for future demand across parks, servicing, repairs, accessories, dealerships and tourism experiences. 

Manufacturing has stabilised 

Australian manufacturers produced 23,963 RVs during 2025, down 5% on the previous year but still 12% above 2019 levels. 

Towable vehicles remain the backbone of Australian production, accounting for 96% of output. Caravan production was particularly strong, increasing by 7.3% to 18,438 units. 

At the same time, caravan trailer and component imports increased by 16% to 23,244 units, demonstrating that substantial new supply continues to enter the Australian market. 

Resilience in a more cautious consumer environment

Cost-of-living pressures, subdued consumer confidence and competition from international travel continue to influence purchasing and travel decisions. 

For trade businesses, consumers are taking longer to move from enquiry to purchase, delaying upgrades and increasingly considering used or lower-priced products. This is supporting demand across the aftermarket and service sectors as owners retain their RVs for longer. 

For parks and destinations, shorter trips and increased sensitivity to fuel costs are likely to favour locations closer to major population centres, while remote and long-haul destinations are facing greater exposure. 

The market is changing, but demand has not disappeared. Caravan and camping continue to offer Australians an affordable, flexible and highly valued way to travel, connect and explore the country. 

With a growing national RV fleet, strong domestic travel demand and caravan park revenue at record levels, the industry remains well positioned to adapt and capitalise on changing consumer preferences while managing the economic headwinds ahead.  

To find out more about accessing the report, email [email protected]