Holiday parks combat cost of living crunch
A BIG4 Holiday Parks survey reveals 76% of Aussies cite finances as travel hurdle
As the cost of living continues to rise, many Australian families are facing financial challenges that impact their travel plans. A recent survey conducted on behalf of BIG4 Holiday Parks reveals that 76 percent of Australians cite financial constraints as the primary reason for reconsidering their holiday plans.
Budgetary concerns are at the forefront for many, with 54 percent of survey participants identifying it as their biggest worry when planning a holiday.
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Other concerns, such as weather and health issues, were far less significant, each garnering only 7 percent of responses. The economic strain is further highlighted by the fact that more than a third (38 percent) of Australians feel they need to work while on holiday to maintain their jobs.
Sean Jenner, Chief Executive Officer at BIG4 Holiday Parks, acknowledges the impact of these financial pressures. “In the current economic climate, many Australian families are reviewing their holiday plans, with some opting for staycations or shorter, more budget-friendly trips closer to home,” he said.
This trend reflects the broader societal impact of the cost-of-living crisis, reshaping leisure choices and challenging traditional notions of holiday experiences for Australian families.
BIG4 Holiday Parks is addressing this issue by offering affordable getaways this school holiday season, with powered sites at select parks available for less than $50 per night. These parks provide a cost-effective alternative for families looking to escape without breaking the bank.
The popularity of holiday parks is on the rise, with nearly 60 percent of survey respondents having opted for a park holiday in the past five years. “Holiday parks deliver great value for money with fantastic amenities,” Jenner explained.
BIG4 parks offer various accommodation options, from budget-friendly cabins to powered camping sites, making it possible for families to find something that suits their needs and budget.
Beyond accommodation, BIG4 Holiday Parks help families save on other travel expenses such as dining and activities. The parks’ outdoor BBQ facilities, favoured by 41 percent of survey respondents, allow families to prepare meals on a budget. Additionally, popular amenities like on-site jumping pillows, pools, and water slides provide entertainment without the need for costly excursions.
The survey also highlighted some budget-friendly activities that families enjoy during their holidays. Over a third (36 percent) of respondents enjoy visiting the beach, 22 percent prefer reading, and 11 percent like fishing. Moreover, 61 percent admitted to indulging in the most inexpensive holiday activity of all—a daytime nap.
BIG4 Holiday Parks are offering a practical solution for families looking to make the most of their school holidays despite financial pressures. For more information or to book a holiday, visit big4.com.au.
Note: The research was conducted by Pure Profile on behalf of Soda Communications in 2024, among a nationally representative sample of 2,000 Australian adults (18+).
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