A disturbing trend is haunting Australian campers this festive season, and it's time to shed light on this ghostly practice. Imagine arriving at your favorite camping spot, only to find it occupied by an empty campervan, reserved weeks in advance by ghost campers!
Ghost camping, a term coined for travelers who book multiple sites, often for free, leaving them vacant, has evolved. Motorhome enthusiasts are now parking their rigs in prime locations along the water, claiming their spots days or even weeks before their actual stay.
Heatley and Michelle Gilmore, experts from Camps Australia Wide, reveal that this issue has plagued their community for decades. "It's become more prevalent as the industry has grown significantly in the last five years," Heatley explains. "It's all about getting the best spot, and during peak holiday periods, it's a real problem."
But here's where it gets controversial... While seasoned campers frown upon ghost camping, new campers, enticed by the beauty of popular regions, may feel the need to secure the best spots in advance. "It's more likely shorter-term travelers who do this," Heatley adds. "They set up their vans and campsites weeks in advance, leaving other potential campers out in the cold."
And this is the part most people miss... Ghost camping thrives in free spots like national parks, making it difficult to regulate. "There are no rules against it, but is it the right thing to do?" Heatley questions.
Michelle agrees, emphasizing that it goes against the Aussie spirit. "Budget sites are meant to provide affordable accommodation for families and travelers to enjoy Australia's wonders. But when vans occupy sites for weeks, it prevents others from experiencing our beautiful country."
The Gilmores, through their app, website, and directory, guide Australian travelers to over 15,000 camping sites. For those wanting to avoid ghost campers, Michelle suggests exploring secret, less-popular sites further from the coast, where prices are more affordable.
"Putting up campsite prices is not the solution," Michelle asserts. "Camping should be accessible and affordable for Australians to enjoy our stunning outdoors."
This practice is not limited to one region. David, a traveler, recently spotted 13 out of 15 caravans parked along the Murray River in Tocumwal Regional Park, with only two in use. Ghost vans are taking over prime spots before Christmas, but should this be allowed?
What are your thoughts on ghost camping? Is it a necessary evil in a booming tourism industry, or a selfish practice that needs addressing? Share your opinions in the comments below!
