If your caravan search feels like it’s dragged on longer than you expected, you’re not imagining it. According to the Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s (CIAA) State of the Industry 2026 report, the typical buying journey – from first browsing listings to signing on the dotted line – may take around six months. Back in 2017, it took about three.
That shift matters for anyone shopping right now, because a slower market isn’t just a curiosity – it changes how much leverage you actually have as a buyer.
The numbers behind the slowdown
Australians took a record 17.3 million caravan and camping trips in 2025, spending $12.6 billion, and the national RV fleet has grown to roughly 937,000 registered vehicles – up 4% year on year, according to the CIAA’s State of the Industry 2026 report. What has changed is how long people take to convert that enthusiasm into an actual purchase. Industry coverage of the report describes the median buying journey as having roughly doubled since 2017, part of a broader market correction rather than a collapse, per RV Daily, with the CIAA’s own leadership characterising current conditions as a return to more sustainable trading.
What's actually stretching the timeline
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Cost-of-living caution
more buyers comparing multiple dealers and listings rather than jumping at the first one.
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More due diligence on brand stability
six-plus manufacturers have been through administration or liquidation since early 2025, and buyers are checking financial footing and warranty structure before committing
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A bigger field to compare
caravan/component imports rose 16% to 23,244 units, per GoAuto Premium, giving buyers more genuine options to weigh up.
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A shift toward used and lower-priced units
as buyers stretch budgets.
Why this counts as a buyer’s market
A longer average purchase journey generally means supply is keeping pace with – or outpacing – buyer commitment, which tends to translate into more room to negotiate on price, accessories or extras, and less pressure to settle for the first listing.
How to use the extra time to your advantage
- Get more than one quote - dealers have more incentive to compete right now.
- Check the brand's footing before falling for a floorplan - trading history, warranty backing, dealer network depth.
- Genuinely compare new against used given the narrowing price gap.
- Ask about run-out and EOFY deals - slower-moving stock is what dealers most want to clear.
- Don't rush the pre-purchase inspection, especially on a used van.
The takeaway: a slower market isn’t bad news for buyers. It’s simply shifted more of the leverage in your direction – as long as you use the time rather than rushing to match the old three-month pace.
FAQ
How long does it typically take to buy a caravan in Australia in 2026?
Around six months on average, per the CIAA’s State of the Industry 2026 report – roughly double the 2017 timeline.
Why is the caravan market being described as a buyer's market right now?
Longer purchase journeys, continued manufacturer consolidation and rising imports point to supply and choice outpacing buyer commitment, favouring negotiating leverage.
Does a longer buying journey mean caravan prices are falling?
Not necessarily outright, but typically more room to negotiate.
Should I buy new or used in the current market?
Both are worth comparing – the CIAA report notes a shift toward used and lower-priced units.
Are more caravan manufacturers expected to close?
Industry commentary has flagged possible further consolidation over the next six to twelve months.
