Go it alone or head for a holiday or caravan park?

In times of COVID-19, many holidaymakers and travellers are understandably cautious about where they choose to stay. A major decision is whether or not to avoid the traditional caravan parks and camping areas and opt for a more isolated and separate style of location to set up their caravan.

We cover off on some of the considerations with information we’ve sourced from various channels to assist your decision-making and holiday and trip planning.

What are the options to a caravan park?

Free camping is an option to a caravan park and according to sources, free camping sites are increasing in popularity and proliferation. With most of today’s caravans fully equipped with all the facilities you need, many travellers prefer the free or low-cost option.

Free and low-cost camping and overnight sites are available across the country and you’ll need to check what is available in your destination area. National Parks all require bookings these days so make sure you plan ahead.

A few spots we sourced include:-

  • Cowra Overnight Spot, NSW: in western NSW this spot has bitumen parking spaces for caravans of varying lengths plus waste disposal facilities and toilets.
  • Kyffins Reserve, NSW: a few kilometres west of Corowa on Lake Mulwala, this site is an idyllic due to its waterfront location and great fishing!
  • The Reef Reserve, Lake Oberon, NSW: another lakeside location which may be the perfect place for you to stop for a few days.
  • Ludlows Reserve, VIC: on the High Country Trail and very close to Lake Hume this site also has a boat ramp for those with toy haulers.

A quick internet search of free campsites or www.campsaustraliawide.com will reveal many for you to consider across Australia.

Benefits of a Powered Site

Of course, many people like the benefits that a powered caravan site offers. These include taking a load of your own batteries, possibly giving them a chance to recharge; being able to more easily run appliances such as the washing machine; and these sites usually have access to water to refill your tanks. Plus you can offload your grey water and other waste.

Off-Road Options

So you’ve invested in an off-road van and want to put it through its paces – where to go? Coronavirus travel restrictions may limit your choices, especially in NT and WA which abound with great off-road destinations. So check with local authorities to see what’s available and what access is like at the time you will be travelling. Even the most spec’d up vehicles may face challenges across the top end in the wet season.

Holiday Park Options

Holiday parks have morphed from the traditional caravan park into full-on holiday destinations. Big4 is a group which has caravan and holiday parks across the country. Many are independently owned so you receive that personalised owner-operator service. Facilities vary from park to park so you have plenty of choice including children-friendly and pet-friendly options www.big4.com.au They also offer member benefits.

NRMA Holiday Parks are also worth reviewing as potential places to stay. This organisation has a stellar reputation and has a range of parks in favoured locations.

Choosing a Location – Considerations

  • If you choose to set up independently in a remote spot, please be mindful of the environment when setting up and when departing. Take care not to leave damage or any waste. Remember, leave only footprints!
  • Disposal of grey water: be mindful about disposing into rivers and waterways.
  • Choose a COVID-safe park and practice safe social distancing and follow health orders for the state you are travelling in.

Buying a Caravan to Suit Your Site

Of course, before you head off you need a vehicle – a caravan, RV, motorhome or camper trailer to suit your travel style and choice of preferred location. We’ve posted a number of articles discussing the various features and benefits of the various classes and categories of caravans and recreational vehicles: traditional caravans, slide-ons, pop-tops, pop-outs, camper trailers and off-road vans. Have a read in our news and tips section and check out the caravan manufacturer websites for the latest offers.

While checking out the price offerings, refer to our Jade Caravan Finance calculator to see how your possible repayments may vary from van to van.

Sourcing Caravan Finance

Jade Caravan Finance offers loans on all types of caravans. The Secured Caravan Loan is the most popular type of loan as it features fixed elements to provide you with certainty over the loan term.

Don’t forget to arrange your pre-approved caravan finance with Jade before you start discussing your caravan requirements with a dealer or manufacturer.

To discuss cheap caravan finance, contact Jade Caravan Finance and speak with one of our consultants at 1300 000 003

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IS FOR GENERAL CONSIDERATION. ANY REFERENCE TO OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT POLICIES HAS BEEN SOURCED FROM AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND STATE GOVERNMENT SOURCES. INFORMATION ON INDIVIDUAL VEHICLE SPECS IS SOURCED FROM THE MANUFACTURER'S WEBSITE. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY ERRORS IN THE PRESENTATION OR INTERPRETATION OF THE FACTS AS PROVIDED BY THESE SOURCES. WE ADVISE ALL INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES TO REFER TO THEIR ACCOUNTANT OR FINANCIAL ADVISOR FOR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE SPECIFIC TO THEIR INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES.