AUSTRALIA'S caravan and camping holidays seem all set for a boom year, if the results of a major show in NSW are anything to go by.

Organisers of the South Coast Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo at Batemans Bay are celebrating a 10 percent jump in visitors, supporting predictions of a strong 2010 for the niche tourism sector.

Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW chief executive officer Barry Baillie said caravan and camping holidays had experienced a resurgence over the past year, which could be a sign of more people choosing to holiday at home rather than travelling abroad.

"The appeal of caravan and camping holidays is that they offer something for every budget from five-star cabin accommodation through to the simple pleasures of camping under the stars," he said.

"With more Australians looking for value for money holidays as disposable incomes become tighter, caravan and camping getaways are a great way for families to reconnect. Holiday parks offer quality facilities and activities that are afforded only by this type of lifestyle.

"Unlike other tourism sectors, caravan and camping tourism has defied recent slowdown trends resulting from global financial crisis. The industry has experienced increased interest and steady occupancy rates which are encouraging signs for the year ahead."

Last month's South Coast Expo attracted 14,320 visitors to see over 150 exhibitors displaying the latest caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, holiday parks and leisure products just in time for the summer holidays.

"It is always a popular event each year in Batemans Bay and an increase of 10 percent in visitation this year is proof of the resilience and strong following of the caravan and camping sector," Mr Baillie said.

"Exhibitors reported good sales, many exceeding expectations in comparison to the previous years. Our Penrith Expo in September and now the South Coast Expo have both experienced record visitation.

"We feel that strong attendances at these shows is an indication of the health of caravan and camping tourism in this state and predict that our tourism sector will lead the revival of the tourism industry across the nation.

"Travellers can go to our website – www.caravan-camping.com.au – to find out more about caravan and camping holidays and browse over 500 holiday parks and recreational vehicle dealers and manufacturers."
 

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