Surprises in store at Caravan Salon

We know Australia boasts its fair share of grey nomads and off-road explorers, building an impressive 20,000 RVs annually despite a population of just 23.5 million. 

But for the latest and greatest in RV design, technology and innovation, you have to turn to Europe, and Germany in particular, where many RV trends originate before eventually making their way Down Under.

That’s why Caravancampingsales is this year heading to the home of World Cup winning soccer teams and world-class pastry for the 53rd Caravan Salon Dusseldorf, the self-described “world`s largest trade fair for motor homes and caravans”.

And who’s to argue, with the 2014 instalment set to showcase almost 2000 new models from 580 exhibitors from more than 20 countries.

Around 180,000 visitors are expected through the turnstiles, and they’ll need good shoes and a detailed map with 190,000 square metres of indoor space to cover, over 19 halls at the Dusseldorf trade fair facility.

Among a smorgasbord of fresh models, from “classical to high-tech, all the way to high-end luxury”, there should be more than a few surprises, although it will be hard to top last year’s $1 million show-stopper from German giant and recent Australian arrival Knaus.

We won’t be a lone Aussie either, with Jayco’s Gerry Ryan and Ken Nizam from Roadstar Caravans, among what should be a strong representation of local industry leaders at Dusseldorf, looking as much for inspiration as that vital edge over the competition.

Caravancampingsales, represented by editor Chris Fincham, will enjoy the full German RV experience by staying on-site in a campervan at the massive caravan park that surrounds the convention centre. Among its many facilities is an all-night beer barn!

The 2014 Caravan Salon Dusseldorf runs August 29 to September 7, so stay tuned for all the news from the greatest RV show on earth…