It’s that time of year again — the National 4X4 Outdoors Show is back. With shows in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, the events will showcase the latest and greatest camper trailers, hybrids, caravans, 4WDs and all the touring gear to go with them.
The Brisbane show (13–15 March) kicks things off, setting the stage for a clear theme in 2026: a growing trend towards trailers and gear designed for offroad adventures.
A new generation of offroad touring
The Australian touring lifestyle has evolved dramatically over the past few decades, and even more so in recent years. Travellers increasingly want the freedom to leave the highway behind and venture into remote national parks, sandy coastlines and rugged outback tracks.
For many adventurers, offroad camper trailers and hybrids have become the ideal solution. They offer the durability and clearance needed for rough tracks while remaining lighter, more compact and easier to tow into tight or challenging locations.
That shift is clear at major events like the National 4X4 Outdoors Show. What was once a niche part of the market has become one of the fastest-growing segments in Australian touring.
Growing demand for offroad camper trailers and hybrids
When asked about the biggest changes in recent years, the National 4X4 Outdoors Show team highlighted a noticeable increase in offroad camper trailer, hybrid and caravan manufacturers exhibiting at the shows.
Over the past five years, interest from brands producing offroad models has grown steadily, and that demand has been reflected in the expanding display areas dedicated to these rigs.
“We’ve seen strong growth in businesses entering the offroad caravan and camper market,” the show team explained. “Established manufacturers are also investing more heavily in offroad models as demand continues to rise.”
The audience is changing too. While long-distance touring was once dominated by traditional grey nomads, the post-COVID travel boom has brought younger couples, families and dedicated four-wheel drivers into the market.
Many of these travellers prefer the versatility of camper trailers or hybrids, which allow them to tackle remote tracks, access tighter campsites and explore destinations that larger caravans may struggle to reach.
Built for the modern offroad traveller
Modern camper trailers are a far cry from the simple designs of decades past. Today’s models combine rugged construction and offroad suspension with practical comforts designed for extended travel.
Solar power systems, efficient storage solutions, compact kitchens and durable offroad components are now common features, allowing travellers to spend longer periods off-grid while still enjoying the essentials of camp life.
And for those looking to bid farewell to canvas but want to retain the nimble versatility of a camper, the rise of the hybrid — which balances the offroad, outdoor-living lifestyle of a camper trailer with the luxuries of a caravan — answers the call of modern travellers.
For anyone researching their next camper trailer or planning an upgrade, the National 4X4 Outdoors Show is one of the best opportunities to compare different brands and designs side by side.
Why Brisbane is the perfect starting point
Queensland has long been a hub for Australia’s offroad touring culture, and many camper trailer and caravan manufacturers build their products with the state’s adventurous travellers in mind.
From exploring the rugged outback to tackling sandy tracks on K’gari (Fraser Island) or heading north towards Cape York, Queensland adventurers demand gear that can handle challenging terrain.
That makes Brisbane the ideal location to kick off the 2026 National 4X4 Outdoors Show calendar, giving potential buyers the chance to explore a wide range of offroad camper trailers, touring setups and accessories.
What to expect at the Brisbane National 4X4 Outdoors Show
When: 13–15 March 2026
Opening hours: 9am–5pm Fri–Sat, 9am–4pm Sun
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds
Tickets: Available now — use the discount code CAMPER for 15 per cent off
Across three days, the show brings together hundreds of brands and thousands of products covering camper trailers, 4WD vehicles, outdoor gear and touring accessories.
Visitors can explore new camper trailer designs, compare offroad features, and discover the latest technology for extended remote travel.
Some of the brands expected to appear include:
But the show is about more than just displays. A packed program of presentations, demonstrations and workshops helps visitors build their offroad knowledge and confidence.
Highlights across the show
Outback Stage
Hosted by Ricko from Australia ReDiscovered, featuring well-known 4WD personalities such as Shaun and Graham from 4WD 24/7, sharing travel stories and insights from the road.
Gear Up & Go Stage
Supported by Girls Day Out 4WD Edition, offering practical advice and skills for offroad touring.
Live Build with Bri
Watch a LandCruiser 80 Series transformed in real time.
MadMates Workshops
Hands-on sessions with MadMatt and Lucas Bree covering essential skills for offroad travel.
Show N Shine competition
A crowd favourite showcasing impressive vehicles and builds, including the new Show Pony category celebrating standout rigs.
Win the $11k Adventure Upgrade
One lucky attendee will also take home the $11,000 Adventure Upgrade prize pack, loaded with gear from brands such as Goodyear, 12 Volt Direct, Miarco Inflatables and Kayo — designed to help prepare your setup for your next big trip.
A great day out for the whole crew
The event also includes family-friendly attractions such as:
For anyone passionate about offroad touring — or considering their first camper trailer — the Brisbane National 4X4 Outdoors Show is one of the best places to see the latest gear, talk to experts and start planning the next adventure.
Get your tickets here.
