Camping guides
27 best camping stores in Australia in 2024
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Last Updated: August 2024
Congratulations on hiring (or considering) a van from our van sharing platform Camplify. Exciting times ahead. But as you're daydreaming about stunning landscapes and starry nights , a few niggling questions might be popping up:
"Have I packed all the essentials?"
"What if I've left behind a crucial item?"
"Where can I stock up on supplies during my journey?
Whether you're a camping pro or a first-timer, a meticulous planner or a free spirit, this guide is for you. We know preparing for a van camping trip can be overwhelming, especially when you're unsure about gear needs.
That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to the 24 best camping stores across Australia. We've mapped these stores to popular Camplify starting cities and must-visit destinations, ensuring you'll always know where to find quality camping gear on your journey.
From nationwide chains for last-minute essentials to regional specialists and online retailers , we've got all your bases covered. Let's get you prepared for an unforgettable Camplify van adventure!
Nationwide camping stores in Australia
These reliable chains have stores across Australia, making them perfect for both pre-trip preparation and on-the-road purchases.
BCF (Boating, Camping, Fishing) BCF is Australia's leading outdoor retailer, established in 1968. With over 50 years of experience, they offer a wide range of high-quality products for boating, camping, and fishing enthusiasts. Their stores are staffed by outdoor experts who can provide personalised advice based on your specific Camplify van adventure needs.
Locations: 130+ stores nationwide
Perfect for: Last-minute gear at various points in your journey
Van hire tip: Often located near popular Camplify starting locations in major cities, such as Sydney , Melbourne , Adelaide, and Brisbane.
Anaconda Anaconda , founded in 2004, has quickly become Australia's largest camping and outdoor gear retailer. They are known for their extensive range of products at competitive prices. Anaconda's team members are outdoor enthusiasts themselves, ensuring you get expert advice tailored to your Camplify van trip requirements.
Locations: 60+ stores nationwide
Best for: Affordable camping essentials and vehicle accessories
Van hire tip: Great for stocking up before leaving major cities
Kathmandu Kathmandu , established in 1987, is a leading outdoor gear and clothing company known for its innovative designs and sustainable practices. They offer a range of high-performance products tested in extreme conditions, perfect for ensuring comfort and safety during your Camplify van adventure.
Locations: 100+ stores nationwide
Specializes in: High-quality outdoor clothing and equipment
Van hire tip: Ideal for picking up durable gear for longer Camplify trips
Macpac Macpac , founded in New Zealand in 1973, has been at the forefront of outdoor gear innovation for nearly 50 years. They are renowned for their commitment to sustainability and producing gear that stands up to the toughest conditions – ideal for those planning challenging routes in their Camplify van.
Locations: 17 stores across Australia
Known for: Sustainable and technical equipment
Van hire tip: Great for eco-conscious travelers starting their Camplify journey in major cities
Paddy Pallin Paddy Pallin , established in 1930, is one of Australia's oldest and most respected outdoor retailers. With nearly a century of experience, they offer top-tier gear and unparalleled expertise. Their staff are seasoned adventurers who can provide valuable insights for your Camplify van expedition.
Locations: 11 stores nationwide
Best for: High-end outdoor gear and expert advice
Van hire tip: Perfect for gearing up before embarking on challenging routes in your Camplify van
Online-only camping stores in Australia
For those preferring to order gear online or needing items delivered to their location:
Snowys Outdoors Snowys Outdoors , founded in 1995, is a South Australian family-owned business that has grown to become one of Australia's largest online outdoor retailers. They offer a vast range of camping and outdoor equipment with detailed product information and reviews.
Delivery: Australia-wide, with expedited shipping available
Van hire tip: Order to your home before departure or to a post office near your destination
Wild Earth Wild Earth , established in 2004, is an Australian-owned outdoor gear retailer known for its extensive range of products and excellent customer service. They offer gear from over 500 brands , making them a one-stop-shop for Camplify van hirers.
Known for: Wide range of outdoor brands and gear
Van hire tip: Offers click & collect at various locations, convenient for van travellers
Outdoria Outdoria is an online marketplace connecting buyers with sellers of outdoor gear, caravans, and campers. Launched in 2015, it's a great platform for Camplify van hirers to find specific camping accessories or gear from various retailers and private sellers.
Specializes in: Camping, caravanning, and 4WD gear
Van hire tip: Great for finding specific van camping accessories
Aussie Disposals Online The online presence of Aussie Disposals offers the same wide range of affordable camping gear as their physical stores. It's an excellent option for Camplify van hirers looking to stock up on basics for their trip without breaking the bank.
Known for: Wide range of affordable camping gear
Van hire tip: Good for bulk buying basics for longer trips
My Camp Site My Camp Site is an online-only retailer specializing in camping, hiking, and outdoor equipment. Launched in 2010, they've built a reputation for excellent customer service and a well-curated selection of quality gear. Their focus on camping essentials makes them a great resource for Camplify van hirers.
Known for: Camping essentials, innovative outdoor products, and competitive pricing
Van hire tip: Check out their 'New Arrivals' section for the latest camping innovations that could enhance your van life experience
CampingStore.com.au CampingStore.com.au is a dedicated online retailer specializing in camping and outdoor equipment. Established in 2011, they offer a user-friendly platform with detailed product information and customer reviews, making it easy for Camplify van hirers to find the right gear for their adventures.
Specialises in: Wide range of camping gear, from basics to specialized equipment
Van hire tip: Check out their 'Camping Bundles' for cost-effective gear sets perfect for van camping
Drifta Camping & 4WD is an Australian-owned company specialising in high-quality camping gear, 4WD accessories, and custom-made products. While they have a physical store in Gloucester, NSW, their online presence serves customers Australia-wide.
Specialises in: Rugged camping gear, 4WD accessories, and custom-made camping kitchens
Known for: High-quality, durable products designed for Australian conditions
Van hire tip: Great for Camplify van hirers looking for specialised gear or custom solutions for their van.
Best camping stores in Sydney area, New South Wales
Tentworld (Parramatta) Tentworld is a family-owned Australian business operating since 1968. Their Parramatta store is known for its extensive range of camping gear and knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right equipment for your Camplify van adventure in the Blue Mountains and beyond.
Address: 13 Parramatta Rd, Granville NSW 2142
Nearby van hire: Convenient for western Sydney starting locations.
Must-visit destination: Blue Mountains National Park (1.5 hours west)
Mountain Designs (Chatswood) Mountain Designs , founded in 1975, is a premium outdoor equipment retailer. Their Chatswood store offers a curated selection of high-quality gear, perfect for those planning a Camplify van trip to the scenic Hunter Valley. Their staff are outdoor enthusiasts who can provide expert advice on equipment suitable for various weather conditions.
Address: Shop 345, Westfield Chatswood, 1 Anderson St, Chatswood NSW 2067
Nearby van hire: Ideal for people starting in north Sydney
Must-visit destination: Hunter Valley (2 hours north)
Best camping stores in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Cairns, Queensland
K2 Base Camp, Brisbane
K2 Base Camp is a long-standing outdoor and adventure gear retailer in Brisbane, known for its extensive range of high-quality equipment and expert staff.
Address: 373 Montague Rd, West End QLD 4101
Nearby van hire: Convenient for Brisbane city and inner suburbs Camplify owners pickups
Must-visit destination: Glass House Mountains National Park(1 hour north)
Camping World (Gold Coast) Camping World is a family-owned business that has been serving Australian campers since 1962. Their Gold Coast store specializes in caravan and camping equipment, making it an excellent stop for hirers looking to enhance their mobile home setup.
Address: 32 Upton St, Bundall QLD 4217
Nearby van hire: Great for **Gold Coast**hirers
Must-visit destination: Byron Bay (1 hour south)
Cairns Camping & Canvas
Cairns Camping & Canvas has been serving the local community and travelers since 1976. Their expertise in tropical camping makes them an invaluable resource for Camplify van hirers exploring Far North Queensland's unique environments, including the Daintree Rainforest.
Address: 187 Aumuller St, Westcourt QLD 4870
Nearby van hire in Port Douglas: Perfect for starting your tropical north Queensland adventure
Must-visit destination: Daintree Rainforest (2 hours north)
Best camping stores in Melbourne area, Victoria
Aussie Disposals (Melbourne CBD) Aussie Disposals , founded in 1962, is an Australian-owned company known for its wide range of affordable outdoor gear. Their Melbourne CBD store is a convenient stop to grab last-minute essentials before heading out on the Great Ocean Road.
Address: 277 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Nearby van hire: Central for hirers in Melbourne
Must-visit destination: Great Ocean Road (1 hour southwest)
Bogong Equipment (Melbourne) Bogong Equipment , established in 1989, is a specialist outdoor gear retailer known for its high-quality products and expert staff. Their Melbourne store is perfect for planning trips to challenging destinations like Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Address: 374 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Nearby van hire: Perfect for inner-city Melbourne pickups
Must-visit destination: Wilsons Promontory National Park (3 hours southeast)
Best camping stores in Perth area, Western Australia
Ranger Outdoors is a Western Australian family-owned business that has been operating since 1988. Their Perth store offers a comprehensive range of camping and outdoor equipment, ideal for Camplify van hirers exploring the diverse landscapes of Western Australia.
Address: 1163 Albany Hwy, Bentley WA 6102
Nearby van hire: Convenient for Perth hirers
Must-visit destination: Margaret River (3 hours south)
Getaway Outdoors (Cockburn) Getaway Outdoors , a Western Australian owned and operated business since 1983, specializes in camping, fishing, and outdoor equipment. Their Cockburn store is a great stop for heading north to explore the stunning Kalbarri National Park.
Address: Cockburn Gateway Shopping City, 816 Beeliar Dr, Success WA 6164
Nearby van hire: Ideal for hirers living in southern Perth
Must-visit destination: Kalbarri National Park(6 hours north)
Best Camping stores in South Australia
Exurbia is South Australia’s premier camping store and official Scout outfitter and supplier. Having been in business for nearly 115 years, you can be sure that their staff are some of the most knowledgeable and experienced in the business.
Known for: Extensive camping gear selection and expert staff
Van hire tip: Ideal for Camplify van hirers starting their journey in Adelaide, especially those planning trips to the Flinders Ranges or along the Great Ocean Road
The team at Gawler Fishing & Outdoors have been supplying high-quality camping gear since 1994. Specialising in camping and fishing equipment, their expertise is highly regarded and sought out by even the most seasoned outdoorsmen. Plus, their fair pricing means you won’t break the bank.
Address: 44-46 Murray St, Gawler, SA 5118
Specializes in: Camping and fishing equipment
Van hire tip: Perfect for starting your journey in Adelaide, especially those planning trips to the Barossa Valley
Best camping store in Canberra, ACT
A premium apparel and equipment brand, Mont is trusted all over the world to provide champions of the outdoors with the best gear. There are 50 authorised Mont retailers across Australia but their outlet store is located in the ACT.
Address: 18 Pirie St, Fyshwick, ACT 2609
Known for: High-quality outdoor apparel and equipment
Van hire tip: Excellent for hirers starting their journey in Canberra, especially those planning trips to the Snowy Mountains or Australian Alps
Best camping store in Tasmania
Tasmanian Outdoor Store (Hobart)
The Tasmanian Outdoor Store , a family-owned business operating since 1981, specialises in gear for Tasmania's unique and often challenging conditions. Their Hobart store is an essential stop for planning to explore Tasmania's stunning national parks.
Address: 72-74 Brisbane St, Hobart TAS 7000
Nearby van hire: Great for Hobart Camplify van pickups
Must-visit destination: Freycinet National Park (2.5 hours northeast)
Best camping stores in the Northern Territory
Mitchell's Adventure , established in 1975, is the Northern Territory's largest independent outdoor and camping store. Their Darwin outlet is an essential stop for preparing to explore the rugged beauty of places like Kakadu National Park.
Address: 62 Stuart Hwy, Stuart Park NT 0820
Nearby van hire: Ideal for starting in Darwin
Must-visit destination: Kakadu National Park (3 hours east)
Mitchell's Adventure (Alice Springs)
The Alice Springs branch of Mitchell's Adventure is crucial for hirers venturing into the heart of Australia. Their extensive range of gear and local knowledge is invaluable for trips to iconic destinations like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Address: 7 Parson St, Alice Springs NT 0870
Must-visit destination: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (4.5 hours southwest)
Essential gear checklist
Before you hit the road in your Camplify van, make sure you have all the essentials. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare and to purchase before you go:
Sleeping & Comfort:
Sleeping bags or bedding
Pillows
Camping chairs
Portable fan/heater (depending on season)
Cooking & Eating:
Portable stove (if not included in van)
Fuel for stove
Cooking utensils
Plates, cups, and cutlery
Cooler or portable fridge
Water containers
Lighting & Power:
Headlamps or portable lighting
Extra batteries
Portable power bank
12V USB charger for van
Safety & Navigation:
First aid kit
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Maps or GPS device
Basic tool kit
Miscellaneous:
Towels
Biodegradable soap
Garbage bags
Clothesline and pegs
Matches or lighter
FAQs - all you need to know about getting your gear for your next Camplify trip
Q: Can I have camping gear delivered to my Camplify van pickup location? A: Many online stores offer delivery to alternative addresses. Check with your Camplify van owner if they can accept deliveries on your behalf.
Q: What if I forget something essential during my trip? A: Don't worry! We've listed camping stores near popular destinations. Many tourist areas also have general stores with basic camping supplies.
Q: Are there any restrictions on what camping gear I can bring in a hired Camplify van? A: Check with your Camplify van owner for specific restrictions. Generally, items like gas canisters and certain types of batteries may have limitations.
Q: How do I know what gear is already included with my Camplify van hire? A: Camplify van listings typically provide a list of included items. If in doubt, contact the van owner directly to avoid duplicating gear unnecessarily.
Q: Can I rent camping gear instead of buying it? A: Some outdoor stores and Camplify van owners offer gear rental. This can be a cost-effective option for items you'll only use occasionally.
Q: How do I choose the right sleeping bag for my trip? A: Consider the climate of your destinations and the time of year. Look for temperature ratings that match the coldest conditions you expect to encounter.
Q: Is it worth investing in expensive camping gear for a short Camplify van trip? A: For short trips, affordable gear from stores like Anaconda or BCF is often sufficient. However, if you plan on regular camping or face challenging conditions, investing in higher-quality gear from specialized stores like Paddy Pallin might be worthwhile. Consider how often you'll use the gear beyond this Camplify van trip.
Q: How can I make my Camplify van camping trip more environmentally friendly? A: Look for eco-friendly camping gear options at stores like Kathmandu or Macpac. Choose reusable items over disposables, use biodegradable soap, and always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Many Camplify van owners also offer eco-friendly options, so be sure to ask about these when booking.
Q: What if I need specialised gear for activities like hiking or water sports during my Camplify van trip? A: Stores like Mountain Designs or Paddy Pallin specialize in gear for specific outdoor activities. Let the staff know about your Camplify van trip plans, and they can recommend appropriate gear that's compatible with van life.
Ready to hit the road? Book your affordable Camplify van adventure today!
Now that you're equipped with the knowledge of Australia's best camping stores, it's time to turn your outdoor dreams into reality. Camplify offers a wide range of vans to suit every adventure and budget, from compact campervans to luxurious motorhomes.
The information in this blog is accurate and current as of the date of posting. Please be aware that information, facts, and links may become outdated over time.