Camping trips are beneficial for mental health … and that’s official. 

Research from Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Real Richness report has revealed those who regularly go caravan and camping are not only happier, but also more satisfied, optimistic and energised than those who do not. Data collected throughout the report demonstrated that 96 percent of campers believe camping can make you happier while 95 percent thought it reduces stress. Campers are less bored, frustrated and lonely than non-campers. It has also been proven to be beneficial for relationships, with 85 percent feeling closer to their spouse or partner compared to 65 percent of non-campers. Trips in nature offered a chance to disconnect from technology and enjoy a stress-free break from busy day-to-day life, with 94 percent of campers believing it creates happy memories.

Not only do trips make campers happier, they also give people an opportunity to connect with themselves and their feelings, with 53 percent of women and 44 percent of men strongly agreeing that camping trips enabled them to gather their thoughts. So there you have it … caravan and camping trips really could be the secret ingredient to improving your health and happiness.