Rising Demand for 5-Sleep Family Caravans in 2026
The caravan market is booming heading into 2026 and 5-sleep family caravans are in high demand.
Tourism Research Australia reports 15.2 million overnight caravan and camping trips, 57.1 million nights and $14.0 billion in total trip spend, with $10.6 billion spent while travelling and $9.2 billion (87%) spent in regional areas.
Caravan parks get 56% of trips, 62% of nights and 70% of spend, so family sized layouts are in high demand.
Australia now has 901,000 registered caravans and campervans, up 27% since 2019 and on track to reach 1 million RVs by 2026 if the current 4.9% CAGR continues.
The wider RV sector is worth $27.1 billion, with registrations up from 792,713 (2022) to 901,000 (2024) – a 14% jump.
Family travellers make up 31% of trips, that’s ~4.7 million family caravan holidays a year.
Surveys show 35% of families take at least one trip a year and 88% of Australians plan to camp or caravan in the next 12 months.
Popular 5-sleep models like the Mars 15 Elite and Blue Tongue XH16 offer 15 – 20% fuel savings, pricing from $58,990 – $95,000, so 2026 is the year of the 5-berth caravan.
Jayco Discovery Pop Top Five Berth Solar Touring
Family Focused Space Design
The Jayco Discovery Pop Top really shines with its ingenious pop-top design – it lets you get the most interior height possible without weighing your car down.
This clever design makes it perfect for families of up to 5 to travel in comfort, without ever having to worry about towing a heavy caravan.
As the demand for lightweight caravans just keeps on growing – a 2024 industry survey showed 38% of buyers were after vans that weigh in under 2,200 kg – the Discovery Pop Top is right on trend.
With all sorts of sleeping configurations to choose from, including a convertible dinette bed, families can easily adjust the interior to suit their needs – whether that’s for a quick overnighter, a longer trip or needing to stash some gear.
This flexibility is especially handy for families who are just starting out with caravanning.
Off-Grid Capability with Solar Power
And with a 200 W twin-cell solar system on board, you get a whole lot more freedom to roam.
These days, over 52% of Aussie road-trippers choose to stay at unpowered campsites at least once a trip – so being able to charge up your batteries and run your gear in the great outdoors is a total game-changer.
With a system like this, you can expect to generate 800-1,000 Wh of energy per day – more than enough to power
- Some nice bright LED lights
- Charging points for your phone or devices
- Ventilation systems to keep things fresh and comfy
- Even some small appliances through your battery system
All of which means you can ditch the holiday parks and save some serious cash – up to $60 per night, in some cases.
Real World Travel Efficiency
For a family cruising through NSW for seven days, for example, you could use the solar power to top up your batteries during the day and then relax at night knowing you’ve got plenty of juice in the tank.
Even on cloudy days, the twin-cell panels do a much better job than the old single-cell systems – it’s a real difference-maker.
Like, if you’re running lights, fans, phones and a 12V fridge you’ll likely be using about 650-900 Wh per day – which means the Discovery’s solar system has got your back, so you won’t need to break out the generator.
The Perfect Balance of Touring
So when you put it all together – the 5-berth layout, the solar power and the whole range of other features and benefits – you get a caravan that’s all about balance and flexibility.
Families can enjoy long stays, cut their ongoing travel costs and have a much more flexible itinerary – all without needing to worry about towing a car that’s too heavy.
Snowy River SRT 22F Multi Terrain Triple Bunk Van
Terrain Ready Engineering
The Snowy River SRT-22F is a multi-terrain van, so families can travel beyond the black top.
The reinforced chassis, higher ride height and stronger underbody protection means you can get into national parks, rural campgrounds and outback touring routes with confidence.
According to 2024 industry data 44% of Australian caravan travellers enter at least one unsealed region per trip, so multi-terrain capability is now a deciding factor for family buyers.
The SRT-22F matches this trend with a design that balances durability and comfort rather than going full off-road.
Triple Bunk Sleeping
The three bunk configuration is one of the SRT-22F’s biggest selling points.
A triple bunk layout means sleeping stability for families with multiple children, so each child has their own space — an important psychological and practical need during long trips.
Family travel reports show that multi bunk caravans now account for more than 31% of all new family van sales, driven by parents wanting fixed bedding to avoid nightly dinette conversions.
Examples of layout benefits include:
- Faster setup at holiday parks
- Consistent sleep routines for children
- More daytime flexibility because living areas remain uncluttered
These factors combined mean more comfort and less parent fatigue during long trips.
Ensuite Independence
A dedicated shower and toilet area means families can stay longer at freedom camps or non amenity bush sites.
On average full ensuite caravan users report up to 40% fewer paid amenity stops, saving money and time.
In real life a family travelling through regional Queensland for 5 nights could use their ensuite daily and use local dump points for waste management.
This means more independence and less crowding at peak season campgrounds.
Family Touring Strengths
By combining a multi terrain chassis, triple bunk layout and full private ensuite the SRT-22F is a well rounded family touring platform.
It supports longer trips, more destination options and child friendly interior organisation — all the essentials for modern Australian family caravanning.
NGC22F The Perfect Smart Twenty Two Foot Footprint for Family Adventures
Living Large on a Smaller Footprint
The NEWGEN NGC22F is a clever 22 ft caravan that makes the most of its size by giving you a sense of space that blows its towing length out of the water.
This is all down to smart zoning – by separating the parents’ sleeping space from the kids’ bunk zone and the living area, we’ve created independent areas that work as a team.
And this is exactly what Aussie family caravanners are after – who knew that 46% of buyers would name caravans between 21–23 ft as their first choice in the 2024 family touring report?
It seems that size does matter – these vans offer the perfect balance between being small enough to tow easily and big enough to give everyone some serious comfort.
As a result, the NGC22F is a top pick for families who’ve previously owned smaller vans or camper trailers and are now looking to upgrade.
A Bunk Arrangement That Works Like a Dream
The NGC22F’s triple-bunk arrangement is one of our proudest features.
By carefully placing each bunk to give kids loads of headroom, airflow and privacy, we’ve created a space that lets three kids get a great night’s sleep every time without any hassle.
And the benefits don’t stop there – parents have reported saving 20-30 minutes a day on bed-making, which is a big deal when you’re on holiday for weeks.
Some of the key benefits of this feature include:
- Individual bed space for each of the kids – no more sharing or fighting for space
- The ability to keep to your normal bedtime routine – or even have an earlier one if you want to
- More stable sleep on bumpy roads or when the wind is howling outside
It’s perfect for families touring with toddlers through to teenagers.
Bringing the Family Together
The NGC22F’s central layout makes it easy to get the gang together for meals, schoolwork or just some downtime when the weather’s not great.
This design stops the van feeling cluttered, which is something that can be a big issue in smaller caravans.
Realistically, families spend over 55% of their time inside the van when the weather is bad, so having a central living space is a must-have for days like that.
Our NGC22F’s got it covered, with loads of seating space and clever storage zones so you can keep everything tidy.
Giving Your Family the Ultimate Touring Experience
By combining a well-designed 22 ft shell, a triple-bunk sleeping area and a user-friendly layout, the NGC22F is the perfect solution for family caravanning – whether you’re heading off on a quick weekend or a long school-holiday adventure.
It handles both with ease – because it’s been designed to give you the best possible experience when you’re out there having fun.
Crusader Excalibur Castle Semi Offroad Luxury Tourer
Composite Body Durability
The MY25 Excalibur Castle stands out with its advanced composite construction, durability and weight.
Composite body caravans are the preferred choice in Australia as they resist water ingress, reduce long term maintenance and improve thermal efficiency summer and winter touring.
Industry stats show over 41% of new premium vans now have composite walls and roofs, a move towards long life, low maintenance builds.
This is driven by owners wanting long term resale value and safer performance on corrugated regional roads.
The Excalibur Castle fits this demand with a high end structural system for both sealed highways and light off road conditions.
Versatile Touring Capability
This model’s semi offroad platform allows you to go further without stepping into the harsher limitations of full offroad vans.
A raised chassis, upgraded suspension and reinforced underbody protection gives families the confidence to get to remote campsites, lakeside reserves and scenic gravel road destinations.
Touring stats show nearly 50% of Australian caravan travellers enter at least one unsealed road per trip, so semi offroad engineering is useful.
In real travel scenarios you can comfortably navigate graded dirt roads in regions like the Victorian High Country, South Coast NSW or inland Queensland.
Luxury Club-Lounge Comfort
The signature grand club lounge transforms the interior into a comfort focused relaxation space.
This is especially important during long touring periods where families spend extended time inside due to bad weather or remote stays.
Survey data shows interior lounge comfort is in the top three priorities for buyers of vans over 23ft.
A club lounge provides:
- More seating capacity
- Better dining comfort
- More social space
- More working or schoolwork flexibility
Families touring for multiple weeks benefit more from this layout compared to traditional café dinettes.
Integrated Premium Touring Experience
By combining composite construction, semi offroad capability and a premium club lounge the Excalibur Castle delivers a luxury touring experience without sacrificing practicality.
It’s suitable for extended family trips, long distance interstate travel and premium holiday park stays while still having the resilience for regional adventure routes.
Infinity 6.3F Lightweight Dual Axle Family Van
Stable Dual-Axle Towing Foundation
The Infinity 6.3F is built around a lightweight dual-axle design, so you get towing stability without the weight of a heavy off-road build.
A lighter dual-axle setup distributes weight more evenly across the van’s footprint, reduces sway and improves braking.
According to 2024 towing-safety data, dual-axle caravans have up to 22% fewer stability issues at highway speeds than similar length single-axle vans.
Perfect for families or couples travelling long distances on sealed roads or mild gravel roads.
More mid-range SUVs and 4WDs can tow this model due to its lighter weight — opening up the market to mainstream Australian travellers.
Residential-Style Bathroom Separation
A separate shower and toilet puts the Infinity 6.3F above many lightweight vans, giving you a more home-like experience.
This bathroom separation provides privacy, easier cleaning and reduced moisture transfer into the living area.
Travel behaviour reports show that caravanners with a separate ensuite spend 35-45% more nights at unpowered or low-amenity camps, reducing campground costs.
For example, a couple travelling the SA Limestone Coast for 8 nights could use the van’s ensuite for the whole trip, eliminating the need for holiday-park bathroom use and giving more flexibility to choose scenic free-camp spots.
High Payload Advantage
The Infinity 6.3F has a big payload capacity, so you can carry more gear — outdoor chairs, extra water, tools and longer trip supplies — without going over the limit.
Exceeding payload is one of the most common compliance issues in Australian caravanning, with roadside inspections showing up to 32% of vans are overweight.
A higher payload means you can load up confidently for interstate trips.
Long Trip Practicality Balance
By combining a lightweight dual-axle design, a full separate ensuite and a strong payload margin, the Infinity 6.3F is a practical touring solution for those who want comfort without the weight.
It’s suitable for weekend getaways and long seasonal trips with stable performance.
JB Dirt Roader Xtreme Heavy Duty Semi Offroad Build
Supagal Structural Reinforcement
The Dirt Roader Xtreme is built on a Supagal chassis — one of the strongest in the semi-offroad category.
Supagal steel is zinc-infused, so it’s more resistant to corrosion and will last longer when exposed to water, rocks, red dirt and coastal salt.
Industry data shows Supagal treated chassis reduce long term corrosion by up to 25% compared to standard painted steel.
This is perfect for Australian conditions where you tow in beaches, deserts and humid inland regions.
Real travel behaviour shows that nearly 60% of caravanists travel through at least one high corrosion zone per year (beachfront, humid tropics or wet season outback roads).
A corrosion resistant chassis protects the structure and resale value.
Heavy Duty Suspension Performance
The standout feature of the Dirt Roader Xtreme is its 3.7T rated heavy duty suspension, it’s strong and stable enough to absorb the harsh impacts of unsealed roads.
This reduces cabin vibration, protects interior cabinetry and improves tyre traction.
Reports from off-highway touring groups show that vans with upgraded suspension have 40% less interior damage on corrugated roads.
Examples are fewer loose screws, less drawer movement and less stress on plumbing and wiring.
In real touring scenarios a family travelling through the Kimberley or Central NSW backroads will benefit from smoother handling and less fatigue on long stretches of corrugation.
Mid-Range Offroad Capability
Not a full off-road van but the Dirt Roader Xtreme has enough strength to handle rougher tracks without the weight of a hardcore off-road build.
This balance allows for long touring routes, national park access and remote campsites without straining the tow vehicle.
Data shows semi-offroad vans are 18-22% lighter than extreme off-road models, so better fuel efficiency and towing ease on long highway stretches.
Rugged Travel Reliability
By combining the Supagal chassis with 3.7T heavy duty suspension the Dirt Roader Xtreme gives you the rugged reliability you need for diverse Australian terrain.
It’s a durable, stable and fuel efficient platform for adventurous families who want to go to tougher destinations without compromising everyday touring comfort.
Vivid Nomad Compact Versatile Touring Van
Compact Mobility Focus
The Vivid Nomad stands out with its compact, travel-efficient design so you can go more places with less towing restrictions.
A smaller footprint means more maneuverability in caravan parks, national park campgrounds and tight coastal access roads.
Industry data shows 49% of Australian caravanners prefer compact vans under 20ft due to lower fuel consumption and easier storage at home.
The Nomad fits into this preferred segment, perfect for couples and small families who want the freedom to travel without upsizing their tow vehicle.
In real life, a compact build reduces travel fatigue as the tow vehicle doesn’t have to work as hard when climbing hills or navigating windy conditions.
Adaptable Interior Configuration
The Nomad’s interior is designed for dual purpose — comfortable for two and flexible enough for a small family.
Layouts with convertible dinettes, flexible bedding and compact storage systems provide flexibility for short weekend trips and long seasonal journeys.
Australian family touring studies show 31% of smaller families now choose compact vans because they have enough space without the bulk.
Examples of versatile interior usage include:
- Couples using the main bed + extra storage where bunks would normally be
- Parents using convertible bedding for one child
- Mixed use living zones that can be converted from dining to relaxation areas in minutes
This flexibility extends the caravan’s use across different family stages.
Fuel Efficient Touring Design
The Nomad is for travellers who like to move between regions frequently.
Its lightweight construction saves fuel — compact vans typically save 8-14% fuel over long haul routes compared to mid-size models.
For example, a couple travelling from Melbourne to Port Douglas could save $180-$260 in fuel for the round trip just by towing less weight.
Everyday and Extended Travel Usability
By combining mobility, flexible interior design and fuel saving efficiencies the Vivid Nomad is a practical touring solution for couples and small families.
It’s perfect for weekend getaways and extended nomadic travel across Australia’s diverse landscapes.
Leader Gold LE Premium Comfort Long Distance Van
Long-Haul Touring Base
The Leader Gold LE is a premium long distance touring caravan, comfort focused construction and quality finishes for multi week or multi month travel.
Premium caravans are for the growing segment of Australian travellers who are prioritising long term road living over short weekend trips.
Industry data from 2024 shows 53% of new caravan buyers will travel for more than 4 weeks at a time, up from 38% 5 years ago.
This shift towards long stay touring means more demand for caravans that offer residential style durability and comfort.
The Gold LE fits this trend by having a layout designed to reduce fatigue on long trips, improve climate comfort and maintain interior stability across varying terrain.
Comfort Driven Interior Layout
The Gold LE’s standout feature is the interior feels like a small apartment not a caravan.
Premium upholstery, dedicated seating zones, extra storage solutions and soft close cabinetry create a living space that supports day to day comfort.
Long term touring studies show comfortable seating and storage quality are the top two satisfaction factors for caravanners travelling over 1000km per trip.
A premium interior reduces the wear and tear of daily living especially when weather forces you to spend more time indoors.
Example interior benefits include:
- Less clutter due to deep overhead storage
- More comfortable dining or work sessions
- Better sleep and rest during long driving weeks
These all add up to long haul enjoyment and reduce traveller fatigue.
Style Adds Ownership Value
A premium look isn’t just about looks – it adds long term value.
Market data shows premium trim caravans retain 12-18% more value after 5 years than base models.
Modern interiors, upgraded lighting and polished finishes contribute to this long term benefit.
For example a couple selling a premium touring caravan after 4-5 years will get more equity back because buyers prefer modern well presented interiors that don’t look dated.
Premium Travel Proposition
Together the comfort driven interior, long distance touring structure and premium styling make the Leader Gold LE the perfect choice for travellers who want a balance of practicality and style.
It’s for extended holidays, interstate trips and lifestyle touring with better comfort, stronger resale value and long term liveability.
The Mica ACX Off Grid Adventure Van : A Compact Adventure Companion
Built for Adventure
The Mica ACX is built for adventure, designed with compact touring in mind while still allowing you to explore the great outdoors, from coastal towns to remote areas.
First and foremost, its construction focuses on strength without unnecessary weight, making it suitable for a wide range of tow vehicles – which is exactly what many caravan buyers want today.
And as it happens, Australian towing stats reveal that nearly half of all new caravan owners are using mid-size SUVs rather than 4WDs – so a van like the Mica ACX really hits the mark.
Because it’s built to be lighter while still tough enough for those uneven backroads and gravel touring routes that can be such a pain to navigate
This balance of design makes the Mica ACX a great fit for couples or small families who want the freedom to explore without getting bogged down in complex off-road tech.
Freedom to Roam Off Grid
The Mica ACX is a van that’s all about off-grid touring – and that means you can stay at non-powered sites for longer periods, which is exactly the kind of freedom Aussie caravanners are embracing in ever greater numbers.
After all, a full 50% of caravanners now choose free camps at least one time during each trip – so this van is really speaking to that demand.
Off-grid capability is about a few key things: solar charging, an efficient battery system, water storage and appliances that won’t gobble up all your juice.
Collectively, these systems cut your accommodation costs – we’re talking $25 to $65 a night less, depending on where you are.
And here’s a great example: A couple doing a 6-night trip through VIC’s High Country, they’re able to rely on the van’s power and water systems so they can stay deep in the national parks, rather than having to come back to paid campsites.
Space Smart & Compact
The Mica ACX really tightens things up in terms of its layout, giving you the most usable space possible within its compact footprint.
This is a big plus for anyone who prefers agile touring – because let’s face it, there are a lot of tight sites and coast access points that just won’t work with bigger vans.
And in fact, our industry data shows that 20-foot caravans or less are at least 12% easier to wriggle into those super tight spots.
And of course, a more compact layout means your life on the road is just that much easier – less clutter, less hassle with day-to-day stuff, it just makes life easier.
The Modern Adrenaline Junkie
By combining a compact footprint, off-grid capability and a robust adventure-ready build, the Mica ACX has the travel efficiency, flexibility, and freedom that today’s Aussie caravanners are all about.
It lets you plan your route, slash your travel costs, and live the life you want on the road – all without needing any heavy-duty towing gear.
Royal Flair FF21.5: A Practical Touring Caravan For Families
A Family-Focused Layout That Makes Sense
The Royal Flair FF21.5 Family Flair caravan was built with one thing in mind: making life easier for families on the road. That means dedicated zones for the kids and parents to sleep, relax, and stash their gear – all without tripping over each other.
You see, families spend a chunk of their caravan time (up to 58% of it, according to Aussie research) stuck around the dining and bedrooms. So, the Family Flair layout cleverly separates things out: main beds, bunks and living areas are nice and distinct. This makes it way easier to get the kids to bed on time, and the adults to get some peace, even after a long day of travelling.
When you’re touring with little ones, this layout is a lifesaver. It saves you loads of time getting set up each night, lets everyone get a good night’s sleep and keeps the main walkway clear – a huge plus when you’ve got tiny humans in tow.
Amenities That Make Life On The Road Easier
The Family Flair FF21.5 is a real game-changer for families who dream of long holidays or seasonal touring. With a decent-sized ensuite, a kitchen that’s easy to use and plenty of space to stash your gear, you can pretty much do everything you need to without relying on underpowered sites or crowded parks.
It’s worth noting here that families who use caravans with full amenities like this are up to 27% less tired by the end of each day – a pretty big deal when you think about it. Just imagine being able to cook up a storm, take a shower and stow away a few tins without needing to run to the shops all the time.
An example scenario: A family from Sydney to Adelaide – seven nights split up at mixed power and free-camps, and they still manage to stay pretty comfortable without sacrificing their fun. That’s the kind of flexibility that’ll keep you and the kids happy.
Durable, Practical Interiors
Families need to be able to use their caravan properly – that means cabinetry that’s easy to access, surfaces that can take a beating and seats that can put up with daily wear and tear. The FF21.5 ticks all these boxes and then some:
- Homework and tablet time for the kids (no excuse for missed homework, then!)
- Meal prep when the weather’s looking grim
- Safe and comfy sleeping for everyone (even those tiny ones!)
We know from caravanning surveys that vans with this kind of durable interior finish have nearly 19% fewer maintenance issues – so you can focus on what you want to do, rather than what needs fixing.
A Complete Package For Families
All in all, the Family Flair FF21.5 is a cracking choice for families who want to tour in style but don’t want to compromise on flexibility. It’s got a family-first layout, practical amenities and a design that’s robust enough to withstand all the daily knocks and bumps of family life. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a long, slow trip, this caravan’s got you covered.
