Is camping going to be more popular this summer? If you believe the trends from our friends down under it is. Right now, while it's Winter here, it's Summer in Australia and New Zealand. The news from our neighbors to the South is that camping as a family vacation is up dramatically.

Due to the current state of the global economy, it seems camping holidays are making a comeback in Australia and New Zealand, although done in considerably more style that 20 years ago.

"House full" signs have gone up in caravan parks, camping grounds and other low-cost accommodations up and down the coasts, due to a boom in local rather than international tourism.

But today's families want more than a patch of grass for their tent or RV. Modern 'holiday parks' as they call them down under come replete with all the luxuries we enjoy here in the North, spa cabins, in ground pools and games rooms stocked with the latest video game consoles.

Shane Murphy, park manager for the Castlecliff Seaside Holiday Park in New Zealand said the camp had been "chocka block" all through Christmas and New Years.

"Families might be camping because it's cheaper, but I reckon it's a darn sight better for the kids. They love it. It's like back to reality, back to basics for them. Being outside, swimming, running round, having a lot of fun", he said.

Mr Murphy said even though the good weather over Christmas and New Year had helped, the main thing had been the economic factor.

"We're still pretty full, but we're going to be chocka again here by Wednesday. It's really good, and I reckon it's a real sign of the times; Kiwis getting back to camping must be a good thing."

While we in North America may need to use Google Translator on some of their slang, their overall message is quite clear. Campgrounds and RV parks are going to be fuller this summer as more families opt for a less expensive vacation in in today's economy.

Those of us that RV full time and like to roam a bit in the summer might do well to make our reservations a bit earlier this year.