Normally, this time of year is when many Aussie families would be packing up and preparing to hit the road, with upwards of 300,000 Australians usually camping over the Easter weekend.

But now that we’ve been told to avoid all non-essential domestic travel to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and States and Territories are applying their own restrictions, holiday travel is off the cards.

In Australia, there are over 711,000 registered camper trailers, campervans, caravans, motorhomes and other RV’s registered, with caravanning and camping proven to provide many physical and psychological benefits.

According to the Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s (CIAA) ‘Real Richness’ report:

95% of campers believe that camping reduces stress

93% of campers believe it brings families closer together and

96% of campers believe camping can make you happier.

While many families have had to cancel their traditional camping experience this year, a new initiative ‘Camp at Home Heroes’ is designed to allow Australians of all ages to engage in fun activities at home and share these experiences via social media.

A holiday at home could mean a backyard tent, a caravan in the driveway or even a homemade cubby in the living room.

“Remaining positive and trying to continue some normality in our lives is more important than ever in these challenging times,” said Keelan Howard, CIAA general manager marketing and communications.

“Camping offers so many benefits to our health both physically and mentally, and these benefits can still be enjoyed from your own home.”

For those who might also be home schooling children at the moment or looking for educational opportunities, a backyard camping trip can also offer lessons for kids.

The ‘Real Richness’ report found that 97% of campers believe camping allows children to learn about the environment, and 71% believe it improves children’s behaviour. Importantly even 69% of non-campers surveyed believe it teaches children important life skills.

To get involved, families are encouraged to visit the Let’s Go Caravan and Camping Facebook page for competitions and tips to camp at home and to share videos / images with the tag #holidayathome #campathomeheroes

In these times of physical/social distancing, Camp at Home Heroes is designed to be enjoyed with the people who live in your house only – make sure to follow Government regulations and don’t invite extended family, friends or neighbours to visit until it is safe to do so.