Taking an electric vehicle (EV) on a family camping trip can be a fun adventure, but preparation is key. I once forgot a charging cable, assuming the public charger at our campsite would have one. Spoiler alert: it didn’t. We made it home on just 6% battery, hearts racing and windows down, with the air-conditioning switched off.
For the last three years, my family has joined friends for a week-long camping trip in south Gippsland. The first time, we drove a diesel family car without any worries. However, with rising repair costs and maintenance issues, we decided it was time for a change—a new EV.
Switching to electric has been eye-opening. While we were the only EV family in our group at first, it seems we’re not alone anymore. Sales of new EVs have surged, tripling to 13.1% of all new cars sold in Australia by 2025, according to Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen. This shift could help reduce transport sector carbon emissions for the first time in years.
Remember the political argument about EVs in 2019? Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison warned that EVs wouldn’t be suitable for towing boats or trailers. But let me assure you, going camping with an EV is very much possible—and enjoyable! Modern EVs are quiet, comfortable, and surprisingly equipped for family trips, even featuring fun tools like built-in sound effects to entertain kids.
However, like many drivers, we often worry about the EV’s range. Our Tesla Model Y is advertised to have a range of up to 466 kilometers. But, like many factors, weight and air-conditioning use can reduce that distance significantly. For example, on a recent trip, our 200-kilometer journey took 5 hours instead of the predicted 3.5.
When we first stopped 120 kilometers in, we were down to 30% battery. Thankfully, charging at our campsite was easy, with many powered sites available. Public charging stations, previously scarce, are now more common, but they sometimes have long wait times and limited connectors.
Despite the range anxiety, there’s something to be said for slowing down and enjoying the road. It’s a great opportunity to take breaks, wander into small towns, and discover local bakeries or shops along the way.
Overall, camping with an EV might require a different approach, but it opens up new possibilities and experiences. Plus, it’s a step toward more sustainable travel for families.
For more on EV statistics and trends, check out this government report.
