The National 4X4 Outdoors Show is back for 2026, with events in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne all bringing together the latest caravans, camper trailers, 4WDs and touring gear. First up is Brisbane (13–15 March), where the growing offroad caravan segment is a major drawcard for Aussie adventurers.
The caravanning lifestyle has changed a lot in the last handful of decades — and even more in just the last few years. More caravanners are wanting to head off the beaten track and explore Australia’s best remote destinations. And to do that, you need a setup that’s up to the task.
The popularity of offroad-ready caravans and narrow, nimble hybrids and camper trailers designed for rough travel is undeniable at events like the National 4X4 Outdoors Show. What was once a niche category is now one of the strongest areas of growth in the Aussie touring market.
The rise of the offroad lifestyle
When we asked the National 4X4 Outdoors Show team about the changes they’ve noticed, they highlighted that over the last five years they’ve seen a growth in interest from businesses in the offroad caravan and camper industry to participate in the shows — which has correlated directly with the square metreage the event organisers dedicate to these displays.
“This growth is specific to the offroad caravan and camper models,” the National 4X4 Outdoors Show team commented. “We’ve seen growth in the new businesses that are launching in this space and also established businesses are leaning deeper into the offroad caravan and camper market.”
The team also noted a change in who is buying these rigs, with more younger families and serious offroaders entering the market post-COVID, shifting it from what was primarily associated with the traditional grey nomad traveller.
Manufacturers are building for this change of gear. Offroad no longer means basic — these are rigs designed to balance offroad capability with the comforts of home for long-haul travelling. Whether it’s a compact unit with enough power to unplug for weeks or a family-sized van that’s as much at home on the beach as the highway, offroad units have come a long way.
And the National 4X4 Outdoors Show is one of the best places to see them all in one place.
There will be hundreds of brands at the 2026 Brisbane National 4X4 Outdoors Show
Why Brisbane leads the charge
Queensland is the offroad caravan manufacturer mecca of Australia — and the brands there know who they’re building for. And more often than not, it’s people wanting to get off the bitumen to explore the outback, hit the sand in K’gari (Fraser Island) or tick Cape York off their bucket lists.
With that in mind, Brisbane is the perfect place to kick off the 2026 National 4X4 Outdoors Show calendar, and a prime opportunity for potential buyers to compare the cream of the crop of Australia’s offroad caravans, hybrids and campers.
What to expect at the Brisbane National 4X4 Outdoors Show
When: 13–15 March 2026
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds
Tickets: Available now — get them here.
The three-day event brings together hundreds of brands and thousands of products across offroad caravans and camper trailers, 4WDs, touring gear and accessories. Visitors can see new models, check out the latest tech for exploring the great outdoors, and pick up accessories to upgrade their setups.
Some of the brands you can expect to see in the spotlight include:
But that’s only the start of it. The National 4X4 Outdoors Show is dedicated to preparing Aussies for exploring Australia, both on and offroad, so don’t miss the various activities and presentations held throughout the show.
Make sure you check out the Outback Stage for a lot of humour and handy insights
Key events
- Outback Stage: Hosted by Ricko from Australia ReDiscovered, with 4WD personalities like Shaun & Graham from 4WD 24/7, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from their travels and what they have planned for the year.
- Gear Up & Go Stage: Supported by Girls Day Out 4WD Edition, delivering practical skills for offroad and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Live Build with Bri: Watch a LandCruiser 80 Series be transformed in real time.
- MadMates Workshops: Hands-on sessions with MadMatt and Lucas Bree to get you prepared for exploring the great outdoors.
- Show N Shine competition: A show-favourite competition that showcases vehicles of all shapes and sizes. The 2026 show includes a new Show Pony category celebrating standout builds.
- $11,000 Adventure Upgrade: One lucky attendee will walk away with a premium prize stacked with gear from top brands including Goodyear, 12 Volt Direct, Miarco Inflatables and Kayo. This prize is designed to completely upgrade your setup for your next adventure — entry is included with your ticket.
Family-friendly attractions include a Wildlife Show by Black Snake Productions, Camp Oven Cook demonstrations and free entry for kids under 16.
Wear your walking shoes and get ready to explore the latest and greatest caravans, campers, hybrids and outdoor gear
Get ready for offroad adventures
With Sydney and Melbourne shows to follow later in the year, Brisbane sets the tone for what’s shaping up to be another strong year for offroad touring — and for the caravans and campers built to handle it.
Find out more about the 2026 Brisbane National 4X4 Outdoors Show here.
THE NEXT STEP
If you want to learn the latest caravan news, find the most innovative new caravans and camping gear or get inspired to plan your next adventure off the beaten track, subscribe to our weekly newsletter. We promise to send you only the best content.
Related articles:
The Binns Track, Mt Dare to Timber Creek: Part 1
The dry season dilemma: Where should you go this year?
Aussie Destinations Unknown: Is full-time caravanning right for you?
Offroad caravans lead the way at National 4X4 Outdoors Show