Why Every Gen Z Aussie is Ditching Airports for Campgrounds

Remember when travel meant battling airport security, overpaying for a dodgy sandwich, and pretending to enjoy a packed tour bus?

Yeah, those days are fading. Young Aussies are swapping overpriced Euro trips for something better: a swag, a van, and an open road. With Gen Z and Millennials now making up nearly half of all camping and caravanning enthusiasts, the great outdoors has officially had a glow-up.

Why Are More Young Aussies Choosing Camping?

Let’s be real—there are some very solid reasons why camping is becoming the new ‘it’ way to travel:

1. Flights Are a Scam – Okay, maybe not a scam, but when one return ticket to Europe costs the same as a second-hand campervan, it makes you think. Camping lets you travel longer for less—more road trips, less crying over flight cancellations.
2. Work-From-Anywhere Vibes – With remote work now a thing, why sit in an overpriced city apartment when you can send emails from a beach, a rainforest, or the back of a van? The digital nomad life is calling.
3. Instagram Made Me Do It – Van life looks sexy on social media. Whether it’s golden-hour shots from Byron Bay or cozy campfire reels, influencers have made camping look cooler than a five-star resort.
4. Eco-Friendly Travel for the Win – Less air travel, more nature appreciation. Gen Z loves sustainability, and camping is one of the most eco-conscious ways to explore the world (just don’t be that person who leaves rubbish behind, okay?).

Top Camping Spots for the Cool Kids

If you’re thinking of embracing the camping trend, here are the must-visit destinations for young Aussie adventurers:

• Great Ocean Road, VIC – A coastal drive so pretty, it’ll make you forget about your phone (for a bit).
• Byron Bay, NSW – The unofficial van life capital of Australia. Expect yoga, kombucha, and people who claim they ‘don’t believe in shoes.’
• Karijini National Park, WA – Unreal gorges, waterfalls, and landscapes that’ll have you questioning if you’re still on Earth.
• The Whitsundays, QLD – Because who says camping can’t come with a side of tropical paradise?
• Cradle Mountain, TAS – If you want hikes, lakes, and the chance to see a wombat up close (iconic behavior).

Looking for places to go camping? >> Get The Whole Guide >>

How to Nail the Camping Life

So, you’re keen to ditch the city and hit the road? Here’s how to do it right:

• Choose Your Ride Wisely – Van, caravan, or just a swag in the back of your car—pick your level of commitment.
• Plan (But Not Too Much) – Have a loose idea of where you’re going, but leave room for spontaneous detours (aka the best part of road trips).
• Pack the Essentials – A good sleeping setup, a portable stove, and a solid playlist. Oh, and bug spray. Lots of it.
• Stay Connected – Off-grid is fun until you need GPS, Google Maps, or an emergency group chat with your mates.
• Season Your Swag >>

Final Thoughts

Camping is no longer just for grey nomads—it’s the Gen Z travel hack that’s all about freedom, adventure, and not paying $15 for airport Wi-Fi. Whether you’re road-tripping for a week or going full-time van life, Australia’s backyard is waiting.

Remember to >> Stay Safe When Traveling >>

So, what’s stopping you? Grab your mates, pack the car, and start exploring. And if you’ve got a favorite camping spot, drop it in the comments—we love a good travel recommendation (especially if it involves minimal tourists and maximum vibes).