Australia’s peak holiday period also coincides with increased risk from bushfires, storms, flooding, and extreme heat. As a Host, your preparedness—and how you communicate with guests—can make a critical difference.
This guide brings together Hipcamp tools, expert advice, and trusted external resources to help you host safely and confidently during high-risk periods.
Natural Hazards: Expert Guidance
Hipcamp was joined by NSW SES Community Capability Officer Katherine Webber for a session on preparing for severe weather. While delivered by NSW SES, the guidance is relevant for Hosts across Australia.
Hipcamp’s Tips for Peak Season Success
Join Brooke, Lyndsay, and Mitch from the Hipcamp team as they share practical hosting tips, safety reminders, and best-practice advice for managing busy periods.
Be Prepared Before Guests Arrive
Before welcoming campers, take a moment to review your emergency readiness.
Share trusted emergency alerts
Encourage campers to stay informed using official state and territory resources:
NSW: Hazards Near Me
QLD: QFES Warnings
VIC: VicEmergency
SA: Alert SA
WA: Emergency WA
TAS: TasALERT
NT: SecureNT
Clear communication ahead of time helps guests make safe decisions.
Free Resource: “Don’t Risk It!” Manual
The Australian Tourism Industry Council has developed a free manual to help tourism operators prepare for natural disasters, manage health and safety risks, and reduce downtime.
It includes:
Step-by-step guidance
Practical checklists
Editable templates
Booking Management Tips
Good preparation starts in your calendar and listing settings.
🗓️ Know your calendar
Block out dates you can’t host to avoid unexpected bookings.🗺️ Check your directions
Make sure your address and arrival instructions are accurate and easy to follow. Visual bullet points and signage help guests arrive safely. Free sign downloads are available in the Hipcamp Shop.💲 Add special pricing
Adjust rates for peak periods directly from your Calendar.📫 Communicate early & clearly
Use scheduled messages to remind campers about rules, arrival details, and safety information.
Preparing Your Campsites
A few simple checks can significantly reduce risk.
🌾 Slash & mow grass
Essential for fire safety and guest comfort.🌳 Check trees and branches
Remove hazards that could fall during high winds or storms.🧻 Review your amenities
Ensure your listing accurately reflects what’s available and includes any important notes guests should know.
Safety Essentials During Stays
Hipcamp provides tools to help you act quickly when conditions change.
💬 Message onsite campers
Use the Message all onsite campers tool to share urgent updates.📍 Have an emergency plan
Let guests know where to assemble and how to evacuate safely.🔥 Use the Fire Ban Tool
Enable a property-wide fire ban during high-risk conditions or official fire bans.🚫 Minimise hazards
Avoid flood-prone sites and ensure safe exit routes. If access relies on a bridge or causeway and severe weather is forecast, contact Hipcamp Support to cancel bookings if needed.
Communicate: Don’t Be Afraid to Call
You have your campers’ contact details. Call them if:
There’s a fire ban
Weather conditions change
They need to know something important
A quick call, text, or check-in can prevent confusion and build trust. A friendly meet-and-greet on arrival is also a great opportunity to reinforce key rules.
Cancelling Bookings for Safety
If conditions are unsafe, Hosts are allowed to cancel bookings with a full refund.
Always prioritise safety and communicate clearly with campers about why a cancellation is necessary.
Make Hay While the Sun Shines
Peak season brings happy campers—and great word-of-mouth.
Let guests know your social handles
Encourage them to tag you
Remind them to tag @HipcampAU too