Having a conversation about mental health can be very difficult, however after the turbulent year that we have had, it is more important than ever that we check in on our loved ones and community.  

September 10 was R U OK? Day, the national day of action dedicated to reminding Australians to ask one another whether they are ok and support those who are struggling.  

There are many ways that we can look after our mental health and wellbeing, one of which being a caravan or camping holiday.  Research from Caravan Industry Association of Australia has found caravan and camping trips can bring a number of benefits to our lives.

The Real Richness Report found campers are happier, more satisfied, optimistic and energised than non-campers.  It also found that campers are significantly less stressed, bored, lonely and frustrated than non-campers.

Not only do trips make campers happier, they also give people an opportunity to connect with themselves and find their grounding, with 53% of women and 44% of men strongly agreeing that camping trips enabled them to gather their thoughts.

Camping trips are also proven to bring you closer to loved ones and give you time away from modern distractions out in the natural environment allowing us to reset.

Children also get wonderful benefits out of taking camping trips, with 93% of campers believing that camping brings families closer together, 94% believing that it teaches children to engage socially and 86% believing that it improves children’s health.

Caravan and camping travellers can attest to the benefits that a trip away can bring, respondents of the survey also revealed 96% of campers believe that camping can make you happier and 95% of campers believe that camping reduces stress.

Some of our respondents also shared specific experiences with us, explaining the value that camping provides in their lives. The most common words appearing in people’s reflections of camping were love, time and family. Such positive memories reflect the true value that caravanning and camping adds to the lives of so many Australians.

Do you know someone who could benefit from some time away to reconnect and rejuvenate?  Even if you are not in a position to take a trip away just yet, perhaps planning one together may even be helpful.

If you or someone you know if is need of mental health or wellbeing assistance, please visit www.ruok.org.au to view how you can help and what support services are available.

To find out more about the Real Richness Report please visit www.caravanindustry.com.au/research