Millions of Australians are swapping hotel rooms for tents as they look for cheaper ways to take a holiday — though whether that signals resilience or financial strain is open to debate.
New research from Finder reveals that 12 per cent of 1,006 surveyed respondents — equivalent to around 2.6 million people nationwide — have chosen to go camping within the past two years specifically to cut accommodation costs.
At the same time, almost a third (27 per cent) of Australians report they have not taken a holiday in more than two years.
Finder personal finance specialist Taylor Blackburn said many households have effectively been priced out of traditional travel.
“Plenty of people are skipping flights and luxury resorts altogether as the cost-of-living pressures reshape how we holiday,” Blackburn said.
“For a growing number of families, the decision is no longer between Bali and Byron — it is between camping and staying at home.”
Camping has long been viewed as a family tradition, offering a chance to connect with nature and with each other without excessive expense. Now, however, many are returning to it out of financial necessity.
With rising costs continuing to bite, camping provides what many families are seeking: an affordable, flexible escape without a hefty accommodation bill.