Final Caravan World magazine hits the shelves

Melbourne-based Hema Group is ceasing publication of Caravan World magazine after 55 years.

Magazine staff at Hema Group's Braeside, Victoria office were informed of the decision over a week ago, along with advertisers and suppliers.

Hema Group said in a statement that Caravan World will continue but as an online only proposition, with the website and regular e-newsletters believed to be part of the plan going forward.

“Caravan World magazine has been a remarkable media story. It has held its position as a standalone print masthead for well over a decade while the market around us has all but collapsed. We are immensely proud of the team who have worked to maintain this standing,” Hema Group CEO Rob Gallagher said.

Caravan World was first published in 1970, with the latest 194-page, issue 662 hitting the shelves in early August. The magazine was printed in Australia, with total monthly printed copies of 8500 according to the latest issue.

The once-popular mag was published by magazine publishing heavyweights ACP and Bauer Media before it was sold to Adventures Group Holdings (part of the Hema Group) close to 10 years ago.

In a time well before free online tips and peer-to-peer reviews became the norm, Caravan World was the go-to source for caravan reviews, tow tests, RV news, advice and travel inspiration, not to mention in-depth technical articles and campside recipes not widely available at the time.

As well as the monthly print edition, currently available at newsagents for $12.50, the magazine was available via subscription (print or digital). The glossy mag was also known for its annual 'Caravan of the Year' awards, which hit the headlines for the wrong reasons in 2019 after accusations of 'fake' scores.

“As we move to a digital model, the focus remains to provide credible, engaging and authoritative content to help consumers make qualified buying decisions," Gallagher said.

"Our digital ad network has been launched to support the needs of our advertisers who, while they love the tactile nature of print, have been transitioning their ad spends to digital over the past decade too."

"Caravan World holds a special place in the hearts of its readers, contributors and partners alike, and we recognise the emotional connection that comes with such a long-standing publication," he said.

"The decision to conclude our print journey was not an easy one and has been made with deep consideration and respect for that legacy, but with a clear understanding that media habits and audience needs have changed dramatically."

"We would like to acknowledge the many people who have made Caravan World what it is today," Gallagher said. "Over the decades, countless passionate, creative and dedicated individuals – journalists, photographers, editors, designers and contributors – have poured their energy and expertise into every page. Their storytelling, insight and commitment have been at the heart of Caravan World’s enduring reputation and influence.

"Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our loyal readers, advertisers and industry partners for their unwavering support and trust. Your engagement has driven Caravan World’s success for over five decades, and we look forward to continuing that relationship in new and exciting ways through our digital future.”

Caravan World is the second well-known Australian RV media brand to hit a financial wall this year, with What's Up Downunder calling in the administrators in early-2025. The struggling Melbourne-based business that produced a TV show, online mag, websites and other digital assets, was snapped up by the JB Group, with WUDU co-founder Warren Parrott later rehired as General Manager/Executive Producer.