How Aussie Households Are Staying Outdoors This Autumn

As the scorching heat of summer gives way to cooler, more comfortable temperatures, Aussie families are making the most of autumn’s sweet spot to get outside and stay active. With crisp mornings, longer daylight hours than winter, and vibrant seasonal landscapes, it’s the perfect time for family adventures—whether that’s hitting the trails, heading to the coast, or simply enjoying the local park.

Across the country, families are finding creative ways to integrate outdoor activities into their weekly routines. With screen time on the rise and school schedules busier than ever, making time for movement in nature has become a priority. For many, that means dusting off the bikes, packing the car, and hitting the road. And with gear like a towbar bike rack, transporting multiple bikes has never been easier. These racks allow families to securely attach bikes to their vehicle’s towbar, keeping the car boot free and making loading and unloading a breeze.

Why Autumn Is Prime Time for Outdoor Activities

While summer tends to get all the attention for outdoor fun, autumn might just be the most underrated season for getting outside in Australia. The temperatures are pleasant—warm enough for a T-shirt in the afternoon but cool enough to avoid overheating during a long walk or ride. With the mozzies and flies of summer starting to disappear, kids and adults alike can enjoy more time outside without the constant swatting.

In many parts of the country, autumn also brings out Australia’s natural beauty. Parks and forests shift into warmer hues, offering a stunning backdrop for bike rides, bushwalks, and picnics. It’s the kind of weather that makes you want to linger a bit longer outside—something families are increasingly embracing.

Top Outdoor Activities for Families This Season

1. Cycling Adventures

Bike riding is one of the easiest and most accessible activities for families. Whether it’s a short ride around the local neighbourhood or a weekend trail mission, cycling encourages movement, coordination, and family bonding. With Australia’s growing number of cycleways and converted rail trails, it’s also a safe and scenic way to explore.

Some popular family-friendly routes include:

• Mawson Trail (SA)– while not for the faint-hearted end to end, families can explore smaller sections suitable for all ages.
• Warburton Rail Trail (VIC)– a gentle, scenic route perfect for a day out.
• Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (QLD)– Australia’s longest rail trail, with many short segments ideal for day trips.

For families who are new to riding or have kids at different skill levels, it helps to choose flatter routes and bring snacks, water, and layers for changing weather.

2. Hiking and Nature Walks

Bushwalking is a classic Australian pastime, and autumn makes it even better. Families are choosing to swap screen time for green time, exploring short trails on weekends or planning day hikes during long weekends and school holidays.

Tracks like:

• Blue Mountains’ Grand Canyon Walk (NSW)
• You Yangs Regional Park (VIC)
• Kings Park and Bold Park trails (WA)

…offer different levels of difficulty to cater to kids and adults alike.

These hikes not only encourage physical movement but also promote curiosity, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for Australia’s diverse ecosystems.

3. Camping Weekends

As travel budgets tighten and international trips remain off the cards for many, camping has seen a massive resurgence. Families are rediscovering the joys of pitching a tent, cooking over a fire, and stargazing far from city lights.

Autumn’s mild weather makes sleeping in a tent much more comfortable than the extremes of summer or winter. From beachside spots in Jervis Bay to bush camps in the Grampians, Australia has no shortage of campgrounds that welcome families—and bikes.

Many camping families now bring bikes along for exploring the area or simply giving kids a bit of freedom around the site. A towbar bike rack makes this possible without having to cram bikes inside the car.

4. Local Weekend Missions

Not every outdoor outing needs to be a full-blown adventure. Families are embracing micro-adventures close to home. That might mean:

• An afternoon paddle at a nearby river or lake
• A BBQ and kick of the footy at a local reserve
• Visiting a new coastal walking track just outside town

These small, low-cost outings provide the same health and bonding benefits without needing big budgets or time off work.

Why It Matters: Health, Balance, and Connection

It’s no secret that movement is good for physical health. But for families juggling work, school, and modern life, it’s also a critical way to decompress, reset, and reconnect.

Getting outside reduces stress, improves sleep, and helps children develop stronger cognitive and emotional skills. Parents benefit too, with fresh air and gentle exercise often leading to clearer thinking and improved mood.

Outdoor family time also encourages communication—free from screens and distractions. Whether it’s chatting during a bushwalk or laughing during a bike ride, these shared moments are where memories are made.

Tips for Making Outdoor Time a Habit

1. Keep It Simple:You don’t need an elaborate plan. Start with short local outings and build from there.
2. Pack the Night Before:Having gear ready—bikes, hats, snacks, sunscreen—makes it easier to head out the door quickly.
3. Let the Kids Help Choose:Giving children input into the plan (where to ride, what to pack for lunch) builds excitement and engagement.
4. Use the Gear You Have:Don’t worry about having all the fancy equipment. A second-hand bike, borrowed tent, or local park can still lead to incredible experiences.
5. Invest Where It Counts:If you’re regularly riding, walking or camping, investing in reliable gear (like a towbar bike rack or quality tent) can make the experience smoother and less stressful.

Autumn is Australia’s Outdoor Sweet Spot

While each season has its perks, there’s something particularly special about autumn in Australia. It’s a time of balance—between warmth and coolness, activity and rest, structure and spontaneity. For families, it offers a precious opportunity to pause, reset, and reconnect with each other and the outdoors.

Whether you’re riding along a trail, toasting marshmallows by the fire, or simply kicking a ball at the park, autumn invites us to slow down and step outside. With a bit of planning and the right tools (like a trusty towbar bike rack for those with wheels to carry), making outdoor time part of your weekly rhythm is easier than ever.

So don’t wait for the next school holiday or long weekend. Load up the bikes, pack a picnic, and make the most of the season. Adventure is just around the corner—and your family is ready for it.