Picture this: you’re watching a captivating film or TV show, fully immersed in the unfolding story. While we often become consumed by the characters and their journey, it’s easy to overlook the vital role played by the filming location. It’s not just about breathtaking visuals and picturesque landscapes; it’s about building a world that draws you in and immerses you completely. The location is the foundation for the entire production, influencing every aspect of the process. From securing convenient and comfortable accommodation to capturing awe-inspiring scenes, every detail matters. And when it comes to remote locations that offer the perfect backdrop, finding suitable accommodation for the cast and crew can be quite the challenge!

Enter Show Group, experts in travel arrangements and accommodation solutions for the film and television industry. With their deep knowledge and experience, they are dedicated to assisting filmmakers in finding the ideal on-location accommodation that provides the best possible travel experience for cast and crew. For insight into the importance and challenges of securing the perfect accommodation, Ausfilm sat down with the Show Group experts. Here’s what you need to know: 

Location, Location, Location!

When it comes to filming in regional or remote locations, securing on-location accommodation for your cast and crew is crucial. It’s not just about minimising travel time to and from set; it’s also about convenience. 

While the key requirements for on-location accommodation remain unchanged—such as location, comfort, safety, affordability, access to dining options, dependable high-speed internet, and convenient parking— there may be specific requests that add a touch of personalisation. Considering details such as the availability of room service or well-equipped gym facilities will go a long way to enhance the overall experience and well-being of your travellers throughout their stay. 

“It’s about creating an environment where cast and crew can recharge and awaken energised for the demanding days ahead.”
– Nick Smith, General Manager, Show Group

Regardless of the size of your production, the specifics of your accommodation will depend on your unique budget and requirements. For instance, some productions may require multiple crew members to share a room, opting for two-bedroom and two-bathroom apartments to accommodate their team. Some productions may prefer 4-star properties. Whatever your production needs, your travel management provider will secure the best accommodation at the best price, tailored to match your unique budget and preferences. 

It’s not that simple…

When it comes to securing your ideal accommodation, the process can sometimes be complicated. If the location is remote, the first challenge will be securing enough rooms to accommodate the cast and crew. However, this becomes even more challenging if the filming coincides with a special event like a local town show or school holidays in tourist towns.

Finding rooms will be easier if the production schedule allows a location change to avoid these events or holidays. Hotels and motels charge premium rates during these high-demand periods, inflating the production budget. It becomes a balancing act between logistics, availability, and budget considerations to ensure a successful and cost-effective production.

Securing accommodation can become particularly difficult when a production’s filming schedule undergoes sudden changes. For example, Show Group’s team recently managed travel for a large production shooting in Melbourne, which experienced a sudden change to their filming schedule. The client urgently contacted the Show Group team, needing more than 100 rooms in Geelong for the same afternoon. Given that a major event bumped into the city that same day, room availability was limited. Regardless, the Show Group team leveraged their expertise and strong supplier relationships to effectively secure accommodation for the client.

Show Group is here to help

Finding the perfect on-location accommodation is no simple task, which is why relying on a dedicated travel management company is crucial. They can anticipate your needs and adapt quickly when filming schedules and locations inevitably change; alleviating stress and allowing you to focus on your production. 

Show Group specialises in all levels and facets of accommodation and complete travel. They will get you where you need to be, saving time, money and stress on the production. As their knowledge extends to a vast majority of cities and regions, they are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of any production.

Contact Show Group today

Let Show Group tailor a solution that meets your specific accommodation needs:
Level 7, 175 Liverpool St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: 1800 221 027​
Fax: +61 2 9352 9911
showgrouptravel.com