How to book Australia's best caravan parks before they're full

Are you ready to explore Australia's stunning landscapes but worried about costs? Camplify, Australia's leading van-sharing platform, makes it easy to hire a caravan or campervan from local owners, often at budget-friendly rates. Here is how it works.

But once you've secured your home on wheels, where will you stay? Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of caravan parks and camping options across Australia, with a focus on keeping your accommodation costs down while maximising your adventure. Spend less, see more!

In this guide, you'll discover:

• The best apps and websites for finding low-cost (and even free!) camping spots

• Budget-friendly caravan park chains that won't compromise on quality

• Clever strategies for snagging the best deals

• Tips and tricks from experienced Camplify travellers on stretching your budget further

Understanding your options

Before we get to the tools and strategies for finding the perfect spot to park your Camplify van, it's crucial to understand the types of stays available. From free camps to luxury holiday parks, Australia offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference.

1. Free camps :

• Cost: $0

• Pros: No cost, often in beautiful locations

• Cons: Limited or no facilities, may have time limits For a comprehensive guide on free camping in Australia, check out our Complete guide to free camping in Australia .

1. National parks and state forests :

• Cost: $5 - $25 per night

• Pros: Affordable, scenic locations , basic facilities

• Cons: May require pre-booking, limited powered sites See our 14 of the Best National Parks to Camp in Australia

1. Showgrounds :

• Cost: $15 - $30 per night

• Pros: Often centrally located , basic facilities

• Cons: Can be busy during events, may lack charm

1. Basic caravan parks :

• Cost: $25 - $40 per night

• Pros: Essential facilities , often in good locations

• Cons: May lack luxury amenities

1. Tourist parks :

• Cost: $35 - $60 per night

• Pros: More amenities, family-friendly

• Cons: Can be crowded, more expensive If you're travelling with family, don't miss our State-by-state guide to the 24 best family-friendly caravan parks in Australia .

1. Premium holiday parks :

• Cost: $50 - $80+ per night

• Pros: Luxury amenities, resort-style facilities

• Cons: Highest cost, may not suit budget travellers

1. Farm stays :

• Cost: Often $20 - $35 per night

• Pros: Unique experience , often cheaper than traditional parks

• Cons: May have limited availability, basic facilities

Remember, prices can vary based on location, season, and demand. Coastal and popular tourist areas tend to be more expensive, while inland and less touristy spots often offer better value.

Essential tools for finding budget-friendly stays

In today's digital age, a wealth of information is literally at your fingertips. The following apps and websites are your best friends when it comes to discovering affordable and unique places to park your Camplify van.

WikiCamps Australia

• Website: WikiCamps

• iOS: App Store

• Android: Google Play

Price : $9.99 (one-time purchase)

WikiCamps is the Swiss Army knife of camping apps. Its user-contributed database is perfect for finding free camps and low-cost options. Key features include:

• Price filters

• Free camping filter

• Offline functionality

• Real-time updates from fellow travellers

CamperMate

• Website: CamperMate

• iOS: App Store

• Android: Google Play

Price : Free (basic version)

CamperMate excels in user-friendliness and coverage of both Australia and New Zealand. It's particularly useful for:

• Last-minute deals

• Setting a maximum budget

• Finding free camping spots

• Discovering nearby points of interest

Camps Australia Wide

• Website: Camps Australia Wide

• iOS: App Store

• Android: Google Play

Price : $9.99/year subscription for the app

This platform offers comprehensive coverage of free and low-cost camping spots. It's especially valuable for:

• Extensive database of free camps and low-cost caravan parks

• Detailed information on facilities

• Regular updates to ensure current information

Hipcamp

• Website: Hipcamp

• iOS App: App Store

• Android App: Google Play

Price: Free to use

Hipcamp opens up a world of unique, often budget-friendly camping experiences on private property.

• Best for: Unique, often budget-friendly private property camping

• Key features for budget travellers:

• Sort by price to find the most affordable options

• Many low-cost, basic campsites on private property

• "New" listings often have introductory rates

• Opportunity to stay in unique locations for less than traditional caravan parks

Hipcamp is perfect for Camplify hirers looking to combine their van hire with immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Budget-friendly caravan park chains

Australia boasts several caravan park chains that cater to budget-conscious travellers. By taking advantage of their loyalty programs and special offers, you can enjoy quality amenities without breaking the bank.

BIG4 Holiday Parks

• Website: BIG4 Holiday Parks

• BIG4 Loyalty Program provides member-only discounts

• Check the " Hot Deals " section for limited-time promotions

• Offers a mix of park styles, including more affordable options

G'day Group (including Discovery Parks and G'day Parks)

• Websites:

• G'day Parks | Holiday Parks, Cabins & Camping Australia

• Discovery Parks - Holiday Parks, Cabins & Camping Australia

• G'day Rewards program offers 10% off stays and member-exclusive rates across all parks

• Includes both Discovery-owned parks and independent parks in the G'day network

• Look for "Stay 4, Pay 3" deals and other promotional offers

• Check their " Deals" page“ for seasonal promotions and last-minute discounts

• Wide network of parks across Australia, from budget to premium options

NRMA Parks and Resorts

• Website: NRMA Parks and Resorts

• NRMA members save up to 15% on accommodation

• Look for " Stay 7, Pay 6 " deals for week-long stays

• Off-peak specials offer great value outside of school holidays

• Many parks in prime locations across Australia's east coast

Reflections Holiday Parks

• Website: Reflections Holidays

• Often located in beautiful, budget-friendly locations

• Look for midweek specials and off-peak discounts

• Some parks offer basic, no-frills sites at competitive rates

Did you know that you can get caravans like the Happy Kampersalso delivered to your next Caravan Park destination? Make sure to tick the "Deliver" option on our RV search page.

Strategies for finding the best deals

Travelling on a budget doesn't mean you have to compromise on experience. With these clever strategies, you can make the most of your Camplify adventure while keeping costs down.

1. Use multiple apps : Cross-reference between WikiCamps, CamperMate, and Camps Australia Wide to find the best options.

2. Filter and sort : Always use price filters and sort by price when searching.

3. Read recent reviews : Look for mentions of value for money or hidden costs.

4. Check for promotions : Look for "Special Offer" or "Deal" tags on listings.

5. Last-minute bookings : Some apps offer last-minute discounts for unsold sites.

6. Longer stays : Many parks offer weekly rates that are cheaper than nightly rates.

7. Membership programs :

• CMCA (Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia) offers member discounts

• Big4 Loyalty Programcan provide savings for frequent travellers

• G'day Parks membership offers discounts across multiple park brands

1. Travel off-peak : Prices can be significantly lower outside school holidays and peak seasons.

2. BYO everything : Bringing your own linen, BBQ, and entertainment can avoid extra charges.

3. Direct booking : Sometimes, booking directly with the caravan park can be cheaper than through third-party sites.

Travelling with pets

For many, a caravan adventure wouldn't be complete without their furry friends. If you're planning to travel with pets, here are some key considerations:

1. Check pet policies : Not all caravan parks are pet-friendly. Always check the pet policy before booking.

2. Pet-friendly accommodations : Look for parks that specifically cater to pets. Our guide to the 18 best pet-friendly holiday and caravan parks in Australia is a great place to start.

3. Pet amenities : Some parks offer special amenities for pets, such as off-leash areas or dog washing stations.

4. Local regulations : Be aware of local regulations regarding pets in public spaces, beaches, and national parks.

5. Pet safety : Ensure your pet is safe and comfortable during travel. Consider factors like temperature control and secure travel crates.

For more comprehensive information on travelling with your four-legged companions, check out our Ultimate guide to dog-friendly campervan hire in Australia .

More planning tips for budget travellers

A successful budget-friendly caravan trip starts well before you hit the road. These planning tips will help you save money on everything from fuel to food and activities.

1. Plan your route : Use free tools like Google Maps to plan an efficient route , saving on fuel costs.

2. Balance paid and free camping : Mix stays at paid caravan parks with free camping to reduce overall costs.

3. Cook your own meals : Utilise camp kitchens or your own cooking equipment to save on food costs.

4. Water and power management : Learn to conserve water and power to make the most of free camping opportunities.

5. Seasonal work : Consider seasonal work opportunities to fund your travels. Many caravan parks offer work-for-accommodation arrangements.

6. Join online communities : Facebook groups like "Budget Caravanning Australia" can provide tips and advice from experienced travellers.

7. Use fuel apps : Apps like PetrolSpy can help you find the cheapest fuel along your route.

Start your budget-friendly travel now

From the stunning beaches of the East Coast to the rugged outback, Australia is waiting to be explored – and now you know how to do it on a budget! With your Camplify van and this guide in hand, you're all set for an affordable and unforgettable journey.

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