Aussie caravan owner calls out 'ridiculous' $15 campground rule: 'Stitch up'

Camping and caravanning may have been one of the biggest travel trends of 2024, and it looks like Aussies are keen to keep the good times rolling this year, too. Given that not one, but two Aussie beaches were just crowned the best in the world, there's probably never been a better time to dig out your sleeping bag or fuel up your van and hit the road.

The only thing better than exploring our stunning country in a caravan is exploring it in a caravan with your furry best friend. This is something that more and more people are doing these days due to the greater freedom this type of travel allows as opposed to heading overseas or staying in hotels or even many Airbnbs.

"Caravan parks are a fantastic option for holidays with your dog," Camplify CMO Alastair McCausland tells Yahoo Lifestyle. "Whether you're driving, towing a van, or travelling in a motorhome, most parks are equipped to welcome you."

RELATED:

• Kmart shoppers rave about $45 item that solves major caravanning problem

• Cheap beach camping spot with crystal clear waters and abundant wildlife: 'Heaven on earth’

• Kmart shoppers loving $12 camping and caravanning essential: 'Takes up no room'

However, despite many caravan parks being pet friendly, one family recently came across a rule they had not encountered in their two years of travelling Australia, prompting a lively conversation about the cost of exploring the country with a pet.

'Confusing' camping detail for caravanning family

"Nearly two years on the road, and today I met the strangest pet policy rules $15 per night/ per poochy on an unpowered site," the shocked traveller wrote.

"Sorry, what now? Are they coming to pick up her poo for me? Does she get a turn-down service and a little mint on her bed? Or maybe a doggy welcome pack with gourmet treats and a nail clip? Because otherwise, ya girl is CONFUSED."

She continued, "Marley just looked at me like, 'Mum, is this why you’ve been feeding me kibble from Aldi? To afford my 5-star campground fees?' Safe to say, we’ll be barking up someone else’s tree tonight."

Her fellow group members were quick to jump into the comments to express their own surprise at the charge.

"Totally fair…… if the dogs get to swim in the pool, use the playground and have their own toilet block with fake grass that they can use," one person joked. "And dog poo bags are provided. Otherwise, a ridiculous money grab."

"Just like places that have no power, no water, no amenities.. but want to charge extra per child... extra for what?" another asked.

"How ridiculous is it?! We stayed at a place on the Gibb River Rd last year with a couple who have a dog... they were charged $20 per night for him and we were only charged $20 per night for our oldest kid! Was crazy!!!," a third added.

"Lmfao most parks charge an extra $10 for a PERSON! $15 for a dog, unpowered? CRAZY," was another comment.

Other comments included, "That’s a bloody joke!!" "Stitch up" and "What the hell!? That’s insane."

Why do caravan parks charge for dogs?

Among, the confusion about the charges, a few people came with suggestions for why some parks may ask you to pay extra for your pet.

"Allowing dogs costs them things you probably don't think of. Like the business they lose from people who only select dog free campsites," one said. "Fences they've had to put up. Possibly insurance costs. Stuff like that. It's cheaper than dog kennels so I'd just chalk it up to the cost of having a pet and travelling."

Alastair agrees saying, "Similar to why some of our van owners on Camplify charge pet fees, these fees often help cover general wear and tear caused by pets. Whether it’s cleaning up after pet hair, repairing scratched surfaces, or maintaining pet-friendly amenities, these costs can add up."

He continues, "In some cases, caravan parks may also use the fees to provide additional pet-specific facilities, like dog-friendly areas, waste disposal stations, or secure off-leash zones. These services ensure both pets and their owners have a comfortable and enjoyable stay."

How much do caravan parks charge for pets?

There were some people in the comments who weren't as phased by the idea of being charged to bring their dog but were shocked at the $15 price tag.

"I have heard of $2 per BUT $15 WHAT????," one unimpressed person wrote.

"Same price as another child! I’d be walking her into the amenities and giving her a nice bath/shower and making the most of it. Don’t forget to give her a jump on the jumping pillow as well! 😍," another said.

SHOP:

• Surprising task Aussies can't stop asking their home device to do: 'Four times more likely'

• Save 20 per cent on good quality school shoes right now: 'Clarks, ROC, Asics'

• Celebrity hairstylist's go-to product that sells for half the price of its competitors

"We've found that pet fees at caravan parks vary significantly and depend on individual park operators. Some parks don’t allow dogs, others permit them for a small fee, and some allow them free of charge," says Alastair.

"Pet fees at caravan parks typically range from $5 to $30 per night. As with Camplify vans, the individual park owners or operators set what they consider a fair fee—or they may choose to waive it entirely. These fees generally go toward the upkeep of facilities and ensuring the park remains pet-friendly for all."

How to plan a holiday with your pet

To avoid any nasty surprises when travelling with your pet, Alastair encourages caravan owners and campers to do their research before setting out.

"Most parks list any additional pet fees on their websites, but if you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to call the park directly," he says.

"The friendly front desk staff will be happy to clarify any details. If you're booking a van on Camplify, pet-related information and fees will be listed in the van’s description, making it easy to plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs."

Want the latest lifestyle and entertainment news? Make sure you are following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter.