Setting Off for a Summer Adventure

Sales of caravans and camping gear supplies have been booming as more young families find a fondness and appeal in what has been traditionally known as the ‘grey-nomad’ holiday. With such beautiful and captivating coastlines to take advantage of, and so many rules still in place for any international travel, it’s little wonder this is proving to be a hugely appealing way to spend the summer. While we’re loving getting closer to nature and back to basics, hardcore camping isn’t for everyone. Fortunately, there are plenty of options depending on whether you like to rough it up or prefer a little more luxury. So, let’s explore the options and look at how to best get prepped for your outdoorsy summer getaway.

Pitch a tent

If the sight of the odd bug and the prospect of using communal bathroom facilities doesn’t make you squirm, pitching your tent in a traditional campsite could be for you. Once you’ve got the essentials sorted (which can take a bit of trial and error and seem a bit daunting at first), you’ll be sorted for years to come. Campers can’t get enough of tent life (which is in fact a lot like a grown-up version of blanket forts and dens), due to the amazing opportunity it provides you to disconnect, drink under starlit skies and wheel out a BBQ dinner night after night. Here are our top 3 resources to get you started:

• Kathmandu Camping Checklist
• 11 of Australia’s most beautiful, secluded campsites
• How to Build a Campfire in 7 Quick and Easy Steps

Camping with a touch of luxury or aka Glamping

Glamping is the perfect option for those that like the idea of camping, but don’t want to forego the extravagances associated with a hotel-style getaway. There are whole websites dedicated to glamping spots that offer opulent accommodation options under the stars, and you won’t be disappointed. Here’s where you can find the hottest spots on offer.

Hook up the caravan

Caravans allow you to take more of the comforts of home with you on the road and have the added benefit of providing you with much better protection from the elements (and wildlife) than a tent will. The best thing about a caravan is that you can leave all your gear in it between trips (if you own it) and turn it into your own boutique hotel or mini manor over time. Depending on the size of your caravan, you may need a fairly beefy vehicle to tow it, but smaller more compact caravans are able to be towed using a medium sized sedan, wagon or SUV. We recommend trying before you buy – caravans are available for hire through Caravan for Hire or you could look at hiring one that is permanently stationed at a holiday park.

The camper trailer

With canvas roofing and sides, these compact trailers pop up to create more space and to welcome the fresh air and views in. While of course these have less space inside than a traditional caravan, they offer more storage than a tent and are much lighter to tow than a caravan – making them the perfect middle ground for many. Jayco Camper Trailers have been around since the mid-70s and have plenty of cool options to accommodate everything from couples through to families.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR ADVENTURE

There’s something about the spontaneity of hitting the road, but a little preparation can make all the difference between a disaster holiday and one to remember – for all the right reasons. Particularly with COVID restrictions still in place across different states. Here’s how to get the most out of your holiday:

Step 1. Map it out – if you’re visiting more than one site, ensure that you have everything booked, are aware of the relevant entry fees, and any restrictions that are in place before you hit the road. Remember to let someone back at home know where you’re going to be and when you plan to return. Safety first!

Step 2. Get packing – if you’re camping, you’ll need to pack everything including the kitchen sink! Working to a list is a great idea, as you’re less likely to forget essential items, but you can be a little more relaxed if you’re going to have shops nearby or en route.

Step 3. Relax and enjoy – give in to the moment and enjoy the star-filled skies, fresh air and sense of space that can only be truly appreciated when you’re closer to nature. Focus on the company of those around you and take the opportunity to really recharge your batteries.

If you’re in need of some destination inspiration, our Hit the Road blog has plenty of gems within easy reach of the city and our Winter Staycation blog features some stunning spots that are equally beautiful in summer.

Above all, from all of us at First National Real Estate, remember to stay safe, follow local health advice and most importantly, have a relaxing summer holiday filled with adventure!

DISCLAIMER

The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial or real estate decisions.