As the festive season approaches and the great Australian tradition of hitting the road in a caravan for a summer holiday kicks into full gear, many find caravan parks are booking out fast. But fear not, intrepid travellers! Some Aussie councils have devised a brilliant solution to the overcrowded caravan parks: opening up their showgrounds for caravanners at a fraction of the cost of traditional campgrounds.

In the charming town of Ulmarra in northern NSW, close to the pristine Yuraygir National Park and a stone's throw from the iconic Byron Bay, the local council has made available eight campsites for the very reasonable price of $20 a night. This initiative is specifically for 'self-contained' travellers looking for a longer-term stay and having their own bathroom facilities. The process is refreshingly simple: drive in, pop your cash into an envelope, and deposit it into the dropbox. Just like that, you're ready to enjoy your stay, and your money goes back to supporting the local community.


This 'great idea' has been met with enthusiasm from locals and travellers alike. The affordable option provides relief for caravanners during peak seasons and encourages visitors to explore the area, thereby boosting local tourism. Comments from excited future visitors and grateful locals have been pouring in, praising the initiative and expressing anticipation for using the new facilities.


But Ulmarra isn't the only place offering budget-friendly options for caravanners. According to Michelle Gilmore, owner of the camping guide app Camps Australia Wide, there are numerous community-run campsites and farm stays that offer 'pay by night' rates, which can be more economical than the 'pay per person' rates often found at national parks or state-run camping grounds. These alternatives are a boon for families, especially those feeling the pinch of cost-of-living pressures, as they provide a flat rate that doesn't increase with each additional child.


The beauty of these community-driven solutions is that they allow people to still enjoy their Christmas holidays without breaking the bank, all while supporting the local economies of the towns they visit. It's a win-win situation that spreads joy and fosters community during the holiday season.

With nearly a million registered caravans on Australian roads, according to the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, the need for more camping options is clear. Luke Chippendale of the association highlighted the importance of sharing the road safely among the increasing number of caravans, cars, and trucks.

So, if you're planning a caravan trip this Christmas and looking for an affordable place to stay, consider the showgrounds and community-run campsites that are popping up nationwide. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of small towns and contribute to their local economies.


We'd love to hear from you, our dear Seniors Discount Club members! Have you tried staying at a showground or community-run campsite? What was your experience like? Share your stories and tips in the comments below, and let's help each other make the most of our travels this holiday season.
Let's keep the conversation going. Happy travels, and may your road be as open and inviting as the Australian spirit!