van to travel australia

Australia in a campervan: top tips from the experts

Sep 8, 2014 • 7 min read

Road trip Australia

One of the best ways to see Australia – the east coast, the west coast, or the whole country – is on a self-drive road trip in your own campervan. Whether you’ve decided to buy or rent your mobile home, we have some hard-won tips from our experts Lou and Ian McBirdwheel to you get you started on your campervan road trip Down Under.

Where to buy a campervan, motorhome or RV

Start your research early by trawling through sites like Caravan Camping Sales ( caravancampingsales.com.au ), Trading Post ( tradingpost.com.au ), CarPoint ( carpoint.com.au ), Gumtree ( gumtree.com.au ), eBay ( eBay.com.au ), Travellers Autobarn ( travellers-autobarn.com.au ), and Travel Wheels ( travelwheels.com.au ). These will give you a good idea on what is out there. The more you know, the better decisions you will make. The Caravan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA;  cmca.net.au ) is the organisation for everything motorhomes. Though they may be aiming at the Grey Nomads market (thousands of retired Australians doing ‘the lap’ of Australia), their information and access to services are invaluable.

Upfront costs

You need to budget for the following, as well as the cost of your van: vehicle registration (in Australia this is called ‘rego’); insurance; getting a roadworthy certificate (RWC) for your rego transfer; and any mechanical checks you want to do before buying. Australian states have differing regulations, but in Victoria (down in the south) an overseas traveller can use the hotel or hostel they’re staying at for registration purposes.

• Tip: If you have a rural address, your rego will cost less than if your vehicle is housed in the city. Many vehicles are sold with rego that can be transferred into your name, and you can also on-sell rego left on your vehicle when you're departing.

Our 1987 Toyota Coaster cost around $500 per year to comprehensively insure through the CMCA. You may decide to go for something cheaper, covering only damage to other’s vehicles not your own (third party insurance).

• Tip: Removing the standard windscreen excess is worth considering, as one stray stone can ruin, not only your day, but also your budget.

A current RWC is mandatory for transferring ownership. Unless you’re a mechanic, don’t buy a vehicle that doesn’t already have one. Ironically, the RWC only proves the vehicle’s safety features are in good condition, not the actual engine!

• Tip: Get a thorough independent mechanical check, ensuring that gas and electrical compliance plates are current too.

You only need a car licence if your vehicle weighs under 4.5 tonnes fully loaded; so you should be fine unless you're buying a large motorhome. It’s advised you get an international driving permit before you arrive in Australia.

What to consider before buying

Renting a campervan for a few days or a week before you invest in one can give you a feel for your requirements – do you really need an inside shower and toilet? There’s no substitute for match-practice to sort out priorities. We used a spade and dug a deep hole for toilet time. Consider the vehicle’s history and kilometres; fuel type and consumption; 2WD or 4WD; battery set up and power; water tanks; storage; and comfort. We cooked outside on a stove whenever possible, but if you plan to do your cooking inside, the vehicle's ventilation is something to consider too.

• Tip: No matter how much you like a vehicle, don’t accept repairs and maintenance have been carried out without receipts confirming it. Ask for an up-to-date log of mechanical work completed before you make an offer.

What to look out for

Of course a secondhand campervan – and one that has done some kilometres already – will have some character (read: wear and tear). You will need to work out what repairs will cost you and what is a real issue that you won't be able to fix.  As well as the vehicle's service history, it's best to check the following:

• the instruments inside the cabin all work, from the fuel gauge to the indicators
• the breaks, gears, steering all work well without any pulling or vibrating
• rust or accident damage
• oil should be honey-coloured and translucent
• coolant should be clean and not rusty looking
• no fumes, smoke, or rattles from the engine when it's running (leave the engine running for a while before and after your test drive)
• the windscreen for cracks or chips.

What type of fuel

Whatever type of fuel, if you go fast, it’s gone fast. Your vehicle’s carting around the extra weight of a home (you know how snails go slow?). The size of your tanks, fuel type and average consumption determine how far you can drive between fill ups. All stations offer petrol; almost all, diesel; and most LPG – but not all. Calculate your fuel requirements and if you need a jerry can. The life of a well-maintained diesel engine is twice the kilometres of other engines.

• Tip: Also watch your water consumption and make sure you check when that tank is running low.

Two or four-wheel drive

We drove a 2WD so we stuck to mostly-sealed roads and, weather permitting, some good dirt ones – not off-road. You can see plenty of Australia without getting a 4WD, but a whole lot more if you’re experienced in off-road driving.

It’s best to have separate batteries for engine and campervan power – we bought a solar panel and could go off-grid for four days powering the lights and fridge. Freezers eat power.

Creature comforts

Make sure the windows have fly screens, that your campervan has an awning, and that the bed is big enough. Tall people take note!

What equipment to take on the road

Most sellers will pass on the accessories (and knowledge) they’ve acquired along the way. If you don’t have a shower, a $20 solar shower bag is worth the investment. We also bought a pop-up ‘privacy en-suite’ shower stall. However, ours had no pop-down instructions (the ever-handy YouTube how-to video attracted the comment ‘you saved our marriage’). At the end of a long drive we enjoyed, not the cheapest or most compact, but most comfortable folding chairs. Other things that are a must-have:

• plenty of bedding
• rechargeable head torches
• roo whistles
• 12v power board to plug into cigarette lighter
• inverter to use dry cell battery charger
• rechargeable lantern
• and music (lots of music).

A GPS is a great, but old-fashioned maps and guidebooks are more fun – and often more reliable.

• Tip: When choosing your cellular data: Telstra will give you the best coverage – which means you can use your phone some of the time.

Re-selling your van at the end of your trip

Before you’ve finished your trip, start advertising – campervans can take months to sell. It’s best to finish in a main city with a good turnover of campervans. Keep all receipts, and download and print off the sale documentation.

• Tip: It helps to take nice pictures of your steed in exotic places.

The Great Australian Road Trip: some commonsense advice

• We found 400km per day was the upper driving limit – but – not every day!
• Share the wheel and take a break every few hours; distances take longer than you think. The extra kilometres you spend on side trips will be the most memorable – an unnamed moonlit salt lake, a flat-topped iron mountain made of glockenspiel shards – the hurried and highway-bound just don’t get to see what makes an Australia road trip so remarkable.
• An overly rigid schedule will deny you these experiences. So yes do some planning, but be flexible.
• Get diurnal! Watch the sunrise and stop driving by 4pm, before 'kanga o’clock'. That’s when kangaroos are active and may jump in front of your campervan on a lonely stretch of road, beware.
• It’s best to set up your site two hours before dark then settle down to watch the skies go through the pinky-blues.
• Ask other travellers about roadside or free camping. Printed guides can date quickly, so talk to locals, other campervanners and, of course, those omnipresent Grey Nomads.
• Caravan parks are handy for hot and cool showers, to plug in to mains power to charge up your house battery for some aircon on a really hot night, and to catch up on your laundry. Tip: Book caravan sites ahead in peak seasons – particularly in the north (April-October).

Now to enjoy the trip of a lifetime. Drive on!

Well-oiled travel writers Lou and Ian McBirdwheel's most recent trip was supposed to be a big drive around Australia. They bought a campervan to do the lap Down Under in six months, but only managed to get from Melbourne to Broome!

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• Best Road Trips in Australia for Campervans

Australia Road Trip Planner

18 of the best road trips in australia.

Australia Road Trip Map : Click on the route for a link to the itinerary, or browse below.

East Coast Australia Road Trips

These east coast Australia road trips combine two or more of the above road trips. Itineraries range from 1 to 7 weeks.

Cairns to Airlie Beach Drive 348 km | 7 hrs drive  | 1 - 2 weeks 4 days for the road trip plus 10 days to explore the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree, Port Douglas, Undara Lava Tubes and the Atherton Tablelands. 

Brisbane to Cairns Drive 2, 177 km | 26 hrs drive | 3 - 4 weeks Explore the tropical northern stretch of the East Coast. 11 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree and Port Douglas. 

Melbourne to Brisbane Drive 2,930 km | 54 hrs drive | 5 weeks 28 days for the road trip, plus 6 days to explore Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 

Sydney to Cairns Drive 3,487 km | 55 hrs drive  | 5 weeks Nearly all of the east coast. 26 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns. 

Melbourne to Cairns Drive 4,787 km | 55 hrs drive | 6 - 7 weeks Explore the entire East Coast of Australia from end to end. 30 - 40 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns.

Road Trip Around Australia

We have three key routes for a road trip around Australia. 

• The first route is a simple circumnavigation of the continent, but this misses the important central desert region with Uluru, the Olgas and Coober Pedy. 
• The second route includes central Australia and can either start in Cairns and end in Adelaide, or start in Adelaide and end in Cairns. 
• The third route builds upon the second route by looping in Broken Hill, Mungo National Park and rural New South Wales. Its start and end points are Cairns and Sydney.

Road Trips by State

• NEW SOUTH WALES
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• NORTHERN TERRITORY

Driving in Australia

Australia is larger than you might think - as large as the USA without Alaska and three quarters the size of Europe. It is also extremely diverse with everything from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, the outback desert and rolling green pastures. If you jet set from city to city, you'll miss all this.

The best (and cheapest) way to experience Australia is to hire a campervan and take a road trip. That way you have the freedom to can set your own itinerary, be spontaneous, take the road less travelled, and stop where you want for as long as you want.

With a kitchen in the back seat, you can pull into a stunning location, make lunch and soak in the views. It's the most convenient, affordable and memorable way to dine. And at the end of an adventure-filled day, your home is where ever you park it. 

You will soon discover the camaraderie of the campervan community - kindred spirits who like to get off the beaten path, who appreciate the beauty of Australia, and are eager to share a few tips and their favorite camping locations with you. As Edith Wharton once said  "One of the great things about travel is you discover how many good, kind people there are."

In this Road Trip Planner we detail some of the best road trips in Australia to help you plan your campervan self-drive itinerary.

• Cairns day trips
• Atherton Tablelands & Wooroonooran National Park
• Kuranda and Barron Falls
• Cairns to Hinchinbrook Is.
• Cairns to Cooktown
• Cairns to Townsville  
• Townsville day trips
• Townsville to Cairns
• Townsville to Airlie Beach
• Queensland Outback  (Townsville - Cunnamulla - Brisbane)
• Airlie Beach to Townsville  (and Cairns)
• Airlie Beach to Brisbane  (and Gold Coast)
• Brisbane to Gold Coast
• Brisbane to Airlie Beach
• Gold Coast to Sydney
• Gold Coast day trips
• Brisbane day trips

New South Wales

• Sydney's National Parks
• Sydney's Top Walks
• Hunter Valley wine region
• Central Coast
• Port Stephens
• Blue Mountains
• South Coast
• Southern Highlands
• The Snowy Mountains
• Sydney - Melbourne Coast
• Sydney - Canberra - Melbourne
• Sydney - Gold Coast
• Broken Hill
• Canberra 
• Grampians | Murray River
• Great Ocean Road
• Mornington Pensinsula
• Phillip Island
• Wilsons Promontory
• Victorian Alps | High Plains
• Yarra Valley | Dandenongs
• Melbourne - Sydney coast
• Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney
• Melbourne - Adelaide

South Australia

• Barossa Valley wines
• Murray River
• Kangaroo Island
• Mt. Gambier
• Coonawarra wine & Naracoorte Caves
• Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
• Adelaide Hills Activities 
• Fleurieu Peninsula & Coorong
• Adelaide to Melbourne
• Outback: Adelaide to Sydney
• Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip
• Adelaide to Perth Road Trip
• Coober Pedy
• Eyre Peninsula

Western Australia

• 3 days in Perth - things to do
• The Perfect WA Roadtrip (South of Perth)
• Yanchep National Park
• Pinnacles Desert
• Bunbury and Busselton
• Margaret River
• Pemberton Forests
• The Kimberley - Broome to Darwin in 6 days
• Broome to Perth in 19 days
• Perth to Adelaide in 16 days

Northern Territory

• Litchfield National Park
• The Pilbara
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)
• Mataranka Hot Springs
• Alice Springs
• Uluru and the Olgas
• Macdonnell Ranges

Other Blogs & Relevant Information

• Driving Distances and Petrol Prices
• Oz Parks Australia's Newest National Caravan & Tourist Park Chain
• Top Islands to visit in Australia
• Top Australian cultural experiences
• Top Australian animal experiences
• 7 reasons why Cairns is the adventure capital of Australia
• 10 movie locations to visit in Australia

Itineraries

Sign up for amazing offers exclusive access for offers and promotions

Campervan hire depots, airlie beach.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

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• Work With Us

Guide to Driving Around Australia in a Campervan

Want to drive around Australia? Have enough money for buying or renting a campervan and keep the fridge stocked and the petrol full? Have a good sense of adventure and a willingness to put a few hours behind the wheel? Well, if you do, you’re all set for an Australian adventure.

Before we had kids, Micki and I had the amazing opportunity to spend six months driving around Australia in a campervan that we had bought and outfitted ourselves.

By the sixth month, we had put over 25,000 kilometers on that campervan, driving from Adelaide in South Australia, up through the untamed Outback in the center, then up to Darwin in the north, before crossing over to Cairns, and finally down the east coast of Australia to Sydney.

Even after spending years bouncing around the globe, it was an unforgettable adventure and still one of our favorite travel highlights.

A guide to driving around Australia in a campervan

Australia is the perfect country to drive a campervan or RV, since it has huge spaces and plenty great RV resorts, or Holiday Parks, as they’re often locally known, in nearly every town.

I think that an Australia road trip is probably the best way to see the land down under, especially if you want to see more than just the big cities and get to know the real Australia.

The funny part about our Australia roadtrip was that our first campervan turned out to be a massive lemon. Sure, we only bought it for a few hundred dollars from a hostel where a previous backpacker had left it and managed to sell it for $50 more than we paid (once we realized it wouldn’t pass a safety inspection). In case you’re wondering, we actually sold it to a guy fixes cars, so he profited as well once he fixed it up.

The great part about the whole scenario was that the original van was stocked with tons of extra goodies.

From an extra camping tent and sleeping bags (helpful when we rented a 4×4 and stayed on Fraser Island ) to boogie boards, a portable table and even a nice propane stove that, by the time our trip was complete, we had gotten good use out of nearly everything. So, when we bought our next campervan, for about 20 times the first, we had it totally stocked up without spending an additional penny.

Even better, we bought a queen size mattress for the back, and even a TV! It was a real luxury to curl up in bed at night and watch a some true Australian TV. We were addicted to the first season on Australian Idol (and were cheering for the eventual winner, Guy Sebastian).

Australia road rules and such things as road trains

Initial problems aside, driving around Australia was a breeze. Well, that is, once we figured out that not only did we have to get used to driving on the left side of the road, but we also had to change gears with our left hand (ours had a manual transmission) and things are reversed from what we’re used to in North America.

Since the gear shift was on the steering column, you have no idea how often we turned on the windshield wipers by mistake. It even became a running gag during our trip.

If you’re interested in buying a used Australia campervan , you can check out Gumtree. Not only do they have thousands of Australian campervans, they also have tons of used camping supplies as well to help get you fully outfitted for your own Australia roadtrip.

I’m also not going to lie and say that we didn’t almost get into trouble a few times coming off traffic circles (which weren’t used much in North America then). Not having lane markers when you’re first trying to remember to drive on the left can be problematic in itself, but after doing a few circles you kind of revert to what you’re used to when you finally straighten out, which wasn’t a good thing if you’re a right lane kind of person.

Outside of that and, oh, the one lane bridges, you should be fine. Just remember to look at what’s coming before you drive over them.

Oops. Did I forget to mention having to get off the road when those giant triple trailer trucks they lovingly refer to as road trains pass you by in the Outback?

That’s not really a law, but if you value your vehicle (and consequently your life) it’s not a bad idea to get out of their way. To say that back trailer sways a little is like calling Uluru a little rock in the Outback, and those road trains don’t slow down for anything or anyone. Don’t worry though, there aren’t that many of them, and it’s a nice change of scenery from the miles and miles of unchanging desert scrub.

Oh, did I mention the kangaroos?

Well, you’ll see those for yourself if you drive through the Australian Outback like we did. They’re awesome to see hopping in the distance and don’t worry, you’ll see plenty of them. Just realize that they have no natural predators in Australia and there’s just as good a chance as them jumping into the side of your Australian campervan as you hitting one. You have been warned!

We also learned it’s a bad idea to drive most places in the Outback at night. Between the hopping kangaroos, the swaying road trains, wandering cows, an errant camel or emu and an abundance of wild rabbits in certain parts of Australia, unless you know the area well, it’s best to stay completely off these roads after sundown. Of course, if you’re on the coast or in one of the major cities you should be fine driving at night.

The realities of driving a campervan in Australia

All kidding aside, driving in Australia is easy once you have a few things down pat. Roads in major cities are well marked, and Australia is similar to most countries in regards to road rules and signage. Just realize that each Australian state has its own road rules. You can check them out here if you’re curious.

Since 85% of the Australian population is within 50 kilometers (31 miles) of the coast (see our recent post on things about Australia you didn’t know here ) there are many places to stay, eat and most importantly, refuel, during your Australia road trip.

Once you get into the Outback, things are a little more spread out, so you need to make sure you have some spare gas with you or have a good estimate of how far your campervan or RV can make it on a tank. Luckily, there are usually signs saying how far the next available gas station. Trust us, you don’t want to get stuck in the Outback without fuel.

Outback safety tip: If you run out of fuel, or your campervan breaks down in the Outback, stay with your vehicle and wait for the next vehicle to pass by. The blistering heat is your biggest danger so stay hydrated. It might take hours, but someone will eventually drive by who can help you out.

It’s also important to realize that smaller towns that only have one gas station could close as early as 4 pm.  We spent the night parked in a gas station lot, because we didn’t have enough fuel to make it to the next town, more times than we care to admit.

If you’re looking for the cheapest gas in an area, or even how close the nearest petrol station is, you can grab the Motormouth app . Similar to North America’s Gas Buddy app, their Australian user-based system continually lists the current gas prices around the country. It’s also handy when that red light on your fuel tank starts flashing, and you need to refuel your campervan or RV immediately.

Even more importantly, since the Outback can get quite hot in the day and cool at night, you don’t want to get stuck without water and food. Make sure you have lots of both when you drive towards the Red Centre.

It’s more than likely you’ll be starting your journey from one of the major cities, so make sure to stock up on everything you’ll need at one of the big supermarkets. The farther you go from the big centers, the more costly food becomes and picking up essentials at gas stations is going to hurt the wallet more than a few spoiled or unused food items.

RV Resorts, Holiday Parks and campgrounds

I can honestly say that Australia has some of the nicest campgrounds we’ve seen anywhere in the world. Though the cost of some of the Australian campervan parks can be a little pricey, lots of campgrounds come fully provisioned with hotel quality swimming pools, multiple hot water showers and restrooms, huge cooking areas complete with lots of barbecues and even dedicated outdoor TV viewing areas for those not so nice evenings. Some even have trampolines and miniature golf for the kids.

Our favorite campgrounds in Australia even featured our own personal shower and washroom area as well as a private cooking area. Staying in those campgrounds was like having a very welcome addition to our campervan, giving us extra room to hang out as well as letting us cook our meals far from our beds. It was also cool to pull into your spot and find out what the little half building next to your pad contained.

Important!  Australia has reverse seasons to the northern hemisphere. As such, Christmas vacation for Australians lasts two months and nearly everyone is out camping and enjoying the heat in December and January. If you’re planning to be in Australia during these months, I suggest you book your campgrounds far ahead of time, otherwise you’ll be parking on the street or in parking lots.

One of the biggest campground companies in Australia, with 180 campgrounds scattered across the country, is  Big4 Holiday Parks . They’re among the priciest of the Australian campgrounds however they also tend to have the nicest amenities.

If you want to rough it a bit more, you can also find campgrounds throughout Australia’s National Parks. You can search for campgrounds across all the national parks  here .

For a list of cheaper campgrounds around Australia, check out Explore Australia’s campground list here and the Findacamp site has a great list as well highlighting some of the cheapest campgrounds in Australia.

Buying and selling a campervan in Australia

If you’re looking at buying a campervan in Australia, there are certain months when it’s easier and cheaper to buy a campervan in Australia than others. The same goes for renting a campervan. Australia campervan hire can be surprisingly affordable off season, or during the shoulder season, especially.

December and January are busy across the country, and finding a rental won’t be easy or cheap in these months. If you want to rent, consider going in the shoulder seasons of October or November and February or March. You’ll miss the crowds and added expenses but the weather should still be great.

If you’re considering buying a campervan or RV, you also need enough time to pick out your campervan and enough time to sell it. There are tons of options out there from used buying and selling sites to dealerships. You can also check out local hostel bulletin boards (even if that didn’t work out so well for us).

When it’s time to sell, you can place an ad or even bring your campervan to one of the local swap meets that specializes in selling vans, campervans and RV’s from other travelers. There should be one in every major city.

Just note that there are better and worse times to buy and sell your campervan in Australia depending on the city you’re in. April to July tends to be the worst time of year to sell your vehicle in Sydney, Perth and Melbourne, however those could be great times to buy one. December to June is also bad in northern Cairns and Darwin, and both Brisbane and Adelaide can be tough to sell in year round. We ended up buying our campervan from a local in Adelaide, since there weren’t that many travelers selling theirs when we were there.

Vehicle Registration is valid for a year in Australia and usually requires an address. We just used our hostel’s address to sign up and it went pretty smoothly. Depending on the year of the vehicle and where it was initially registered, also note that some vehicles require a safety inspection before they’re allowed to be registered to someone else, so make sure the vehicle is roadworthy before giving over the money.

Final thoughts on driving an RV or campervan around Australia

Already have your Australian campervan fully stocked and ready to roll? All you need to do now is pick a route and set a timetable.

Are you going to drive The Great Ocean Road in the south past Melbourne and enjoy beautiful beaches and light houses?

Dreaming of jumping crocodiles and pristine canyons? Maybe driving from Darwin down to Katherine Gorge is the trip for you?

Want your area a little less crowded? How about having a quiet wilderness adventure on the west cost in Western Australia?

Still too crowded? How about checking out the Red Centre and experiencing the wide open spaces of Australia’s outback while you take in iconic sites like Uluru and the Devils’ Marbles?

Too remote for you? How about checking out rainforests, the great barrier reef and gorgeous stretches of beach as you live up the beach bum lifestyle in tropical North Queensland?

Maybe the mainland is too much for you? All that space giving you pause. Maybe you should check out Tasmania’s rural and natural beauty and check out Tasmania’s sleepy towns and secluded beaches.

No matter where you go or which route you decide on, taking a road trip around Australia in your campervan, RV or even just a van will be a memory you’ll keep forever and no matter how long you go for, there will always be something new to see on your next adventure.

Safe travels!

Got a tip about driving a campervan around Australia? We’d love to hear from you. Drop us an email or leave a comment below for everyone to read.

Such a comprehensive post! I am Australian and do love reading about how people from other countries see our country. Rural and remote Australia is especially beautiful – the isolation is a great experience, but really, its all about the views. We love the Northern Territory so much we have camped up in Darwin for about a year to check it out further – such beautiful desert! We have spent many months doing road trips in Australia, although it is such a big country that there is always more to explore. Thanks for the post 🙂

This van is so cool, I would like to go to australia trip and wanna get a outstanding experience of my life

This is great. You made me nostalgic for the road trip we did around New Zealand in a campervan. I can only imagine how cool this must have been in Australia. The only knock I have about the experience was that I think I saw more of the New Zealand road not the scenery being the driver.

This will make sure to help us enjoy our road travel in Australia this year with my friends. Thank you for sharing this informative blog with us.

Great tip, I sure everyone will enjoy their road trip with this information. Thank you for posting.

Nice post. You look really comfortable. I’d like to start traveling soon as well xD.

Haven’t been to Australia since 2005 and heading back with 4 kids this time! Is it worth waiting until we arrive to check for local deals for Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, Fraser Island, Scuba Diving or should we order before we leave?

Mathew, I would look now into the times you want to go and make sure it’s not busy or a holiday. If it is, it’s best to book in advance, otherwise you can wait until you get to Australia to book things and see if they’ll give you a better deal. If there’s 6 of you all together then you might be able to get an even better deal by contacting them directly rather than using their online forms.

Nice post! How did the van do on the west coast/in land, did you have any trouble with gravel roads?

The van worked well pretty much everywhere we went across Australia however we did run into problems along the Oodnadatta Track in South Australia. The problem is that it had rained heavily the two days before we attempted it and we were well advised to hold off an extra day just to let it settle a bit so we did. The dirt and gravel track was definitely a little slippery in sections but the biggest problem is that the red mud clung tenaciously to the underside of our van and it hardened into super tough clay.

We were probably carrying hundreds of pounds more in weight by the time we arrived in Coober Pedy and it took a lot of work to get the majority of it off the camper van. 5 months later, when we sold the van, you could still find a chunk of that Australian red mud stuck in odd places.

So, other than the rainy season, I think it’s fine to drive most vans along Australia’s gravel roads however it’s never a bad idea to talk to a local if you’re unsure of the quality of the drive and leave your name and travel itinerary with someone in places that are off the grid so someone can track you down if you get lost or stuck. As we were told a dozen times, the Outback can be a brutal place if you aren’t properly prepared or outfitted, especially in the hot season.

Awesome! its very helpful. Thank you so much for sharing. I really appreciate you guys.

great article… thanks for sharing this article with us.

we had a campervan and loved driving around in it – pulling up anywhere, and falling asleep to wake up in the morning to see where we were! It was so well set up that we slept in places such as overlooking the beach, or even near waterfalls. Cant wait to get another campervan so we can keep exploring Australia in places that motorhomes cant go 🙂

thanks for the Australia guides really helps me a lot..thanks for this post

That is pretty cool that vans can be stationed at campgrounds. I need a van that fits at least 8 people. I’ll have to rent something so that all of my friends can pile in and travel the U.S.

I’m reading this article and i really hope to be visit Australia!

Wow! This is incredibly amazing. I’ve always wanted to try travelling using a campervan. I’m planning on renting one through the site that I found. Hopefully, I’ll be able to go out soon.

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Who are faramagan.

After 6 years of long distance, Darren and Lauren quit their day jobs to live the day dream. Far am a gan translates to “where am I going” from the Scot’s language, Doric. A phrase muttered several times a day by this travelling twosome as they avoid adulthood one adventure at a time. Through this blog they document the tales (and fails) from their experiences, offering a refreshing and unfiltered approach to travel in the hope they inspire others to embrace adventure.

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How to Travel Australia in a Campervan – Tips, Costs & More

This guide covers everything you need for travelling Australia in a Campervan. From costs to campsites, routes to road trip tips and all the highlights and hidden gems in between. 

After travelling New Zealand in a campervan , we knew Australia was next on our bucket list. For us, campervanning in Australia is the best way to explore this epic country, the van life community here is unrivalled and the scenery makes those long road trips oh so worth it.

It can be challenging at times (hello crazy wildlife and insane temperatures!) however, armed with this guide you’ll have all our top tips as well as those we’ve learned along the way from locals and other campers. 

Below is a quick summary of everything we’ll cover:

• Reasons to travel Australia in a campervan
• Best time to visit 
• Rent Vs Buy – which is best?
• How to choose the best campervan
• How to find cheap campervan hire in Australia
• Cost/how to budget
• How to find campsites
• How to keep cool
• Cooking in a campervan
• What to Pack

REASONS TO TRAVEL AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

• Save Money Let’s start with the obvious – Saving dollar! When we priced up accommodation, plus flights, transfers and transport then dining out on top, campervanning worked out cheaper as you have your own kitchen and bedroom on wheels!
• Freedom & Flexibility: travelling Australia in a campervan provides the ultimate freedom to go wherever you want, whenever. You won’t be tied to hotel bookings, check in or out times or transport schedules. You can also change your travel plans on a whim, staying longer when you love a destination or moving on when it’s not your vibe.
• Family Friendly: We loved travelling Australia in a campervan as backpackers, so returned in 2023 with our toddler. A massive reason we chose a van again, was that we won’t have to unpack and repack all our stuff everyday checking in and out of accommodation. It’s also becomes a familiar environment so getting little ones to sleep or nap is easier compared to a new bed each night. The endless fresh air all day is a bonus too! It’s also easier to cook budget and family friendly meals or have snacks with you at all times as you’re literally travelling with a kitchen on wheels.  
• Meet the locals: Staying in typical tourist accommodation, does mean you often only meet typical tourists. Australians LOVE camping, so we found meeting locals was easy (especially families) and they loved to share tips and recommendations. You’ll meet locals in one campsite who recommend another hidden gem or shortcut and so you never want your Australia campervan trip to end.
• Scenery: Travelling in a campervan allows you to immerse yourself in some insane natural beauty – from rainforests to deserts, cities to beaches. Not to mention, Australia offers some of the best stargazing spots in the world. As well as the star gazing capital –  Coonabarabran in NSW other sites include Uluru, Perth Observatory and Kangaroo Island .
• Wildlife: We’ve found this is a huge reason preventing people from travelling Australia in a campervan – the wildlife! For us, it was a massive bonus. We woke up to baby ducklings below our van, koalas above our van, kangaroos fighting next to our van and our toddler nearly brought a wallaby into our van. We had zero interaction with snakes or spiders, so please don’t let the wildlife put you off.
• Minimal packing:   There is nothing worse than having to travel all the way back to your hotel room because you forgot your raincoat/Mossie spray/ snacks/camera. With a van, you have everything you need, with you at all times. This is a MASSIVE bonus when travelling with kids, especially! Have we persuaded you yet to travel Australia in a campervan yet?

THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

Firstly, it’s important to recognize Australia is MASSIVE! It covers approximately 7.7 million square kilometers (2.97 million square miles) making it the world’s sixth-largest country. 

Thanks to it’s vast landmass, you can expect diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to tropical rainforests but this also means very different climates and seasons. For us, this made travelling Australia in a campervan like travelling several countries in one so here are our top tips to decide when and where to visit.

Best Season To Go Campervanning in Australia

The first thing to note when travelling Australia in a campervan is that the seasons are flipped in comparison to Europe.

• Summer: December to February
• Autumn: March to May
• Spring: September to November
• Winter: June to August. 

As mentioned, the country is enormous, (nearly the same size as Europe) so remember different states also offer different seasons – just to make planning your road trip even more challenging. For example:

• Victoria: Victoria has a temperate climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, particularly in Melbourne. We even experienced zero degrees in Victoria which we’d never expect from Australia! 
• New South Wales (NSW): NSW has a varied climate, it’s temperate along the coast ( Sydney ) but arid inland (known as the Outback). Coastal areas have mild winters and warm summers. For wildlife fans, prime whale-watching season is from June to November with peak months usually in July to October. Nothing can compare to witnessing these majestic creatures migrate from the comfort of our wee campervan, coffee in hand. A truly unforgettable experience! 
• Queensland: Generally, there are two main seasons – wet and dry. Overall it’s a tropical climate with wet summers. Brisbane enjoys mild winters and hot, humid summers. In Cairns expect a more tropical climate and try to plan your road trip to avoid the wet season as flooding is common.  Although we found this time of year, the best time to enjoy the Cairns waterfalls in full flow as they dry up in the dry season so it depends on what you hope to experience.
• South Australia: South Australia has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Adelaide, the capital, enjoys a pleasant climate but if you want to experience the biggest art festival in Australia,  Adelaide Fringe Festival you’ll need to visit between February and March. 
• Western Australia: WA is HUGE – we’re talking 2.5 million square kilometres so you can expect a very diverse climate. From tropical in the north to Mediterranean in the southwest. Perth has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers. In Perth, February is the hottest month, with an average high of 31.6 °C, and July is the coldest month, with an average low of 7.9 °C. Coming from Europe the flipped seasons took us a while to get our head around!
• Tasmania: Tasmania has a cool temperate climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year. We travelled Tasmania in a campervan during April and May. During this time the seasons where transitioning from Summer to Autumn so temperatures were pleasant ( around 12°C to 20°C.) We found the West Coast to be be very wet and grey, but nothing compared to home in Scotland. The East Coast was warm enough we could swim in the sea, but not too hot that we struggled to sleep or keep cool in the van with our toddler. 
• Northern Territory: NT features a tropical climate with a wet season in the summer, characterized by high temperatures and monsoonal rains, especially in Darwin. Don’t let the heat put you off however, we have tips for keeping cool in your van later in this guide. 

RENT VS BUY FOR CAMPERVANNING IN AUSTRALIA

Now you know when to go, your next step of travelling Australia in a campervan is finding a van, more specifically whether to rent or to buy.

There are definite pros and cons to each, which we’ve summarized below based on our own experience and of many of our friends who also enjoyed campervanning in Australia.

Buying a Campervan in Australia: Advantages

• It’s yours: This means complete freedom to make it your home on wheels. This is particularly important if you plan on living in it full time, or working and living in it for an extended period of time.
• No Road restrictions: By buying a campervan in Australia you won’t be restricted to only sealed roads. Many rental companies enforce this rule due to insurance. So if you want to truly get off the beaten track, you’ll have the freedom to do so in your own van without the worry of losing a deposit or expensive fines from your rental company.
• You Blend In: We actually witnessed this in Nimbin, near Byron Bay where locals were shouting at a couple in a campervan “to go home.” In some areas vans are not welcome due to the mess, overtourism and poor infrastructure. To be honest, we get it to some degree. By buying a campervan in Australia your van won’t be adorned with massive logos or advertising. No one will know if you’re an Aussie or a tourist. 
• Save Money: If you plan on travelling Australia in a campervan for a month or two, then rent. If it’s longer, it will be cheaper to buy your own.

Buying a Campervan in Australia: Disadvantages

• Selling it again: This is the hardest part about buying a campervan in Australia – selling it again! Ask yourself: do I have time to  find, buy, road trip then sell a van within the time frame allocated?  The supply and demand of campervans majorly fluctuated depending on the time of year. You may have more success selling your van at the start of the season (Spring/early Summer) as there is a higher demand, but then this is when you’ll likely want to be travelling. 
• Cost: Although buying a van may work out cheaper long term than renting, the breakdown fees and repairs can be more expensive. In a rental van, you simply phone up the helpline and you’re either given a replacement vehicle to continue your trip or its fixed at the side of the road. With your own van, (depending on your insurance) you will need to fork out (and figure out) repairing it. This could mean weeks off the road and thousands in fees. We didn’t fancy that headache, so again this fuelled our reasons to rent a van for our Australia campervan trip.

Renting a Campervan in Australia: Advantages

• If you’re limited on time & Money: Whether you have five weeks or five months to explore Australia in a campervan, you won’t want to waste a minute stressing about trying to sell your van or sitting in a garage waiting on repairs. With a rental, you can make the most of your time.
• They come equipped: Buying a campervan in Australia also then means buying utensils, bedding and more. With a rental, they usually come equipped. When we travelled Australia in a campervan with our toddler, the company also provided a baby car seat, towels and useful extras such as tea, coffee, camping chairs, washing up liquid, etc. This can save you both time and money!
• Enjoy the discounts & Support: As Australian campervan hire is super competitive, many have arranged exclusive deals with campsites to encourage their customers to stay there. For example, we received a discount of 10% in certain campsites if we showed our keyring with the rental company logo on. One rental company we used sat us down with a huge map and explained a few highlights, top tips and hacks. While another we used had its own app with discounts and campsite recommendations. This again, saved us time (and money!) from figuring it out for ourselves.
• Help is always on hand: Although we’d experienced van life in New Zealand, we still didn’t feel brave enough to take on our own van and preferred the safety net of having the rental company on speed dial. From 24/7 roadside assistance or just general advice. 
• Less Commitment: Travelling Australia in a campervan (both as just a couple and as a family) was an excellent way to test the lifestyle. By renting, it meant we had the freedom to travel, without being tied down to a single vehicle. You could choose different companies and campervans depending on the state (for example, we travelled Tasmania in a different van as it worked out cheaper than taking one across) and without the commitment of ownership. 

Renting a Campervan in Australia: Disadvantages

• Beware of the Small Print: There will always be small print with an Australian campervan hire. Many require a large deposit (or security bond) this will majorly impact your adventure funds. There is also the risk of dodgy rental companies who have kept the deposits for unfair reasons. There may be additional fees for cleaning, returning the fuel tank empty or restrictions on how many kilometres you’re allowed to drive. Don’t worry, we’ll help you find a reputable company! 
• Restricted Access: This will vary depending on the rental company (we had zero restrictions in Tassie compared to mainland Aus) but some companies won’t allow you to use unsealed roads. This will restrict where you can drive and camp. 
• They Look like Rental Vans: I know it’s vain, but due to the turnover of users, rental vans usually have the most basic, grey, boring interiors to minimize damage and dirt. The exterior is them emblazoned with logos, contact details and colour which can ruin those holiday photos and attract unwanted attention. 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST VAN FOR CAMPERVANNING IN AUSTRALIA

Based on our tips above, you may have now decided to rent (like us) or opt for buying a campervan in Australia. 

Regardless of your choice, we have a few tips to make sure the van go for for is suitable for your road trip, expectations and travel style. 

1. Will you be using free campsites?

Free camping in Australia is permitted, but there are restrictions. In most states, your campervan must be a self-contained vehicle. This means your campervan has a toilet (even if its just a portable one) and access to water.  If you don’t have this and are in a free campsite that specifically requests self-contained only, you can be fined. The laws are SUPER strict to protect wildlife, the infrastructure and local communities. Please be a responsible traveller when campervanning in Australia and only use free sites if you are self contained, unless they permit otherwise. 

2. Are you old enough to drive in Australia?

This only really applies to renting, but it can affect your insurance when buying a campervan in Australia too. Generally, Australian campervan hire companies only accept drivers over 21 (some accept over 18.) If you are buying a van, some insurance companies may not insure you unless you have a International Driving Permit (IDP). 

3. What’s best a campervan, a motorhome or a 4WD?

Even the most experienced drivers will find campervaning in Australia tricky at times. Darren has been driving for 10+ years but with narrow roads, road trains, wild weather and kangaroos galore, it’s not a challenge for the faint hearted.

That’s why we chose a campervan – motorhomes (sometimes called RV’s) would be too big to drive, park up and pay for fuel! As we didn’t plan on heading deep into the outback, we also didn’t think a 4WD was essential. The campervan we chose was compact but well equipped. 

We also found (particularly in Tassie) phone signal can be limited to call for help or research routes. 

4. How many people are you travelling Australia in a campervan with?

Please learn from our mistake here. When we were campervanning in Australia the first time, we opted for a 3 berth campervan. This is because we wanted a little extra space for storage, to work and because Das is 6ft 4 so he could stand up. We also spent a lot of time in the evenings cooking and working, so preferred extra space. 

When we returned to Australia with our toddler, we assumed 3 berth would be fine again – after all, we were 3 people. Technically, 2.5. What we failed to calculate was HOW MUCH STUFF A BABY HAS! Despite being the same kind of van (a kuga campervan) the layout was also slightly different with the kitchen at the back and bed behind the driving seats. This felt much less spacious when it was the opposite way round in our other kuga. 

If you’re a group of friends all contributing to the cost then you may want to go for a bigger van as you can afford to. Baring in mind, more people means less space. 

You can watch the video below for a full van tour – cribs style! As mentioned, we opted for a Kuga not only for travelling Australia in a campervan, but in New Zealand too.

HOW TO FIND CHEAP CAMPERVAN HIRE IN AUSTRALIA

Step one: travel off-season.

Do not expect to find cheap campervan hire in Australia from December – February. This is peak season so the added demand comes with added cost. If you can, experiment with dates. Even by starting your road trip a week or two earlier can affect the cost. As we’ve travelled in both Winter and Summer, we believe you shouldn’t let the weather dictate when you go if it means you can save some serious dollar. Opt for the off-season for the best deals as you’ll also find campsites cheaper and less crowded. 

Step Two: Compare

We’re Scottish so naturally, bargain hunting is in our blood. When trying to find cheap campervan hire in Australia your next step is to use comparison sites.

 We recommend Motorhome Republic where you can filter by dates, budget, berth and more.  Not only can you compare thousands of campervans in one place, they also have a price beat promise to ensure you have the best deal! 

Step Three: Haggle

After a solid week of scrolling through the sea of Australian campervan hire companies we narrowed it down to three which were all similar in price. However, there slight pros and cons to each, for example one charged one way fees, another offered the baby seat free of charge, the third had a cheaper security bond and less excess.

We then emailed the companies directly, explained we were on a mission for cheap campervan hire in Australia and they’d made it to our top three. We then requested their for their best and final offers but the bargain hunting didn’t stop there. 

Step Four: Booking The Best Deal

If you plan on travelling Australia in a campervan, do not miss this last step. BEFORE booking direct, take your best quote to a third party.

We contacted Rat Pack Travel who claimed to “beat any quote” and explained after comparing and contacting directly this was the best deals we could find. They went above and beyond to ensure we booked with them. They managed to secure a deal that was nearly $200 cheaper than what we could find after weeks of research and contacting directly. You could also use Motorhome Republic who have a $150 price beat promise!

Although this may seem time consuming, it is definitely worth it if you want to find cheap campervan hire in Australia. For our first trip we used Traveller’s Autobarn (who we also used in New Zealand, found via Motorhome Republic) and for the second time campervanning in Australia we went with Cheapa Campa (owned by Apollo, booked via Ratpack Travel)

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

Despite our best efforts at research, we found over and over again, there is one thing no one discusses about campervanning in Australia – COST!

This is likely because there is a massive amount of factors that determine how much you’ll spend. For example, the first time we travelled Asutralia in a campervan we were backpackers who cared more about our wine fund so opted for more  free sites. Second time round with a toddler in tow, we needed paid sites with access to playparks, decent showers etc. 

As a general guide, as of our latest trip in 2023 this how much we’d recommend budgeting for travelling Australia in a campervan. 

HIRE: $150 per day

This is the approx hire cost for a 3 berth high top campervan. The cost will depend on campervan size, time of year, duration of your trip and additional extras. Find the best campervan hire deals here . 

FUEL:   $2 per Litre

This will vary depending on the day and state. There are a few handy apps and websites you can use to check fuel prices and find cheap fuel near you. For example, Fuelprice.io which shares fuel prices in almost real time at 9,700 petrol stations across 230 Australian towns/cities. Or, Fuel Map which shows gas stations nearby as well as prices and you can track how much fuel you’ve used each day like a diary.

CAMPSITES: $0 – $50 per night 

This could technically be $0 if you’re in a self contained vehicle and skip the home comforts for free campsites only. From all the paid campsites we used it averaged at $40 a night. These campsites had kitchens, laundry facilities, showers, playparks, toilets and sometimes even swimming pools and restaurants. 

Expect to pay more near major cities or famous attractions. Privately owned campsites (not chains such as Discovery Parks etc) will also be cheaper.

FOOD / DRINKS: $150 per week

We planned our meals to keep costs down (more on that later) then did a big weekly shop in Woolworths, Aldi or Coles which averaged $150 a week for three people. This was breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. We did eat out occasionally, usually for lunch as it was cheaper and we are partial to a shiraz or seven so this was more expense ontop. 

ACTIVITIES: $0-$100000+

It’s so hard to put a price on this. One of the many joys of travelling Australia in a campervan is that many of the activities are free – beaches, hikes, waterfalls, wildlife watching etc. However, if you want to visit the more famous attractions, join a tour or spend time in the cities then it can get super expensive.

Budget Tips for Campervanning in Australia

• One Way Fees: If you are finishing your Australian roadtrip in a different location than you started, rental companies add an additional fee called a “one way fee.” This is usually around $150-$200. Travel in a loop to avoid this. 
• Save on Fuel: Daz the excel enthusiast created a rough route, calculated the total distance, then worked out how many km to the litre of petrol we would get. This gave us an approximate budget for fuel prior to travelling Australia in a campervan. As mentioned you can download fuel apps to compare prices as they vary per town and per day. You can also join fuel reward schemes to earn discounts.
• Save your receipts: Another way to save on fuel, is to save your receipts as some supermarkets like Woolworths or Coles offered a discount off your fuel (usually around $0.04 – $0.06 per litre). 
• Plan Your Food Shop: Shopping for groceries is insanely expensive in Australia so plan your meals and also your food shop for when you reach larger cities. Small towns have convenience stores such as IGA which were crazy expensive and very limited on choice. 
• Avoid Tolls: Tolls soon add up when you’re travelling Australia in a campervan so use Google Maps and set your route to “avoid toll roads.” 
• Additional extras: Even if you have found a cheap campervan hire in Australia or a bargain van to buy, keep in mind the additional extras on top. This includes insurance, ferry transfers, break downs, food, fuel, campsites and parking fees plus any attractions on top.  

AUSTRALIA CAMPERVAN RELOCATION

If you are short on time and money you can still travel Australia in a campervan thanks to this sneaky tip. 

Australia campervan relocation is essentially when rental companies or garages have an imbalance in their fleet. They may have too many campervans in one city or region and not enough in another.

To address this, they offer special deals to customers who are willing to relocate a campervan from one location to the other. Sometimes its free, sometimes its at a seriously reduced rate (sometimes as low as $1 a day.)

Australia campervan relocation is an excellent way to save money while still getting to experience van life. The biggest disadvantage is that there is usually a strict deadline. The vehicle needs to be in the new location by a certain time and date.

If you are happy to travel via these deadlines, here are a few companies to look into that offer campervan relocation in Australia: 

• Coseats.com 

You can also contact the rental companies directly, as many offer relocation through their own websites. 

WHAT IS THE BIG LAP OF AUSTRALIA?

You’ve maybe heard of the big lap. If you really wanted to explore Australia in a campervan, this would be the ultimate road trip as you drive the entire coastline. The total distance is approximately 14,500 kilometers (around 9,000 miles!!)

The time it takes to drive around Australia and complete the loop depends on various factors. This includes your driving speed, stops along the way, road conditions, and detours to explore specific regions.

In reality, at an absolute minimum you’d need three months to complete the big lap of Australia. However, some people take a year plus! 

BEST PLACES TO VISIT AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

Now its time to get to the fun part – planning your route for campervanning in Australia!

Unless you’re planning on the big lap and have all the time in the world, it’s easier to choose a particular state or route and take your time than it is to cram in too much and whizz through it all.

There are eight states  with each one offering a very unique experience for campers. As a very general guide we’ve summarized a few highlights for each one to inspire your travels of Australia in a campervan. 

New South Wales Highlights

• Sydney: Even though we were on a budget, we  loved our 4 days in Sydney  (We even squeezed in a bargain show at the Sydney opera house!). The Bondi to Coogee walk is particularly impressive.
• Free camping: As a tip, we found the most free campsites in NSW. One of our favorites in particular was called Lake Wallace . It had showers, an incredible view and SO much space. It was one of the biggest free campsites we came across while campervanning in Australia and the sunrise here was an incredible start for our Blue Mountains day trip – another highlight.
• Whale Watching in Eden: We loved this small coastal town, not only because the campsite there ( Eden Gateway Holiday Park ) had an outdoor swimming pool, but also because it’s one of the best places for whale watching in Australia.
• Beaches: A few of our favorite beaches included Jervis Bay (also famed for whale and dolpins), Toowoon Bay and the beaches around Narooma . 
• Byron Bay: Yes it’s super touristy but we loved every minute here. We even tried our first surf lesson and partied until 4am. We camped here during Australia day weekend so it was particularly busy, but a definite highlight from our time campervanning in Australia as there is a massive vanlife community here. 
• Watagans National Park: Heading inland, we loved this area. Not only is it an excellent spot for stargazing, but we went on some epic hikes where we met huge monitor lizards and even an abandoned plane in the forest which made for some epic photography opportunities. There were also many free campsites here such as Gap Creek Campsite and Watagans HQ campground.

Victoria Highlights

• Melbourne: We lived in Melbourne for 8 months in 2019, then returned here for another three months in 2023 so we might be a little biased, but it’s our favourite city in the world. For food, for the people, the nightlife, the street art – we love it all. 
• Great Ocean Road: No trip to Australia in a campervan would be complete without a drive along the famous Great Ocean Road . We’ve done it three times – each time in a different season so we’ve learned some epic top tips for camping on Great Ocean Road if you’re planning on taking a van along this world famous road trip. We’ve found it the best place to find koalas in the wild and the great ocean road waterfalls are out of this world.
• Day Trips: There are endless day trips from Melbourne   which we loved so much we camped afterwards. These include: exploring the Yarra Valley (you’ll need to camp after all the wineries!) exploring the stunning landscape of Wilsons Prom, meeting the penguins of Phillip Island and hiking in the incredible Grampian Mountains . You could spend months camping in Victoria and would never get bored (but you might get a little cold if you’re there in Winter!)
• Mornington Peninsula: For another breathtaking drive, follow the coast from Melbourne via Frankston which will take you through the picturesque Port Phillip towns of Mt Eliza, Mornington, Rye, Sorrento and Portsea. We even took our campervan on the ferry across to Sorrento. There are so many things to do in Mornington Peninsula , in particular we loved the Peninsula Hot Springs and enjoying the art and wine at Point Leo Estate . 

Queensland Highlights

• Cairns: Many people associate Queensland with crocodiles and creepy crawlies but we found it a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches and incredible wildlife. We used Cairns as a base, as there are so many epic day trips from Cairns that you’ll never want to leave. Highlight include snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Kuranda markets, the stunning road trip from Cairns to Cape Tribulation (where the reef meets the rainforest) and finally, the stunning Cairns waterfalls   dotted throughout the region.
• Whitsundays: Heading down the East Coast you will find Airlie Beach, which is the gateway to the Whitsundays. We left our van on the mainland and instead enjoyed a sailing trip around the Whitsundays so we could enjoy the mind-blowing Whitehaven Beach.
• Gold Coast: The city itself is quite surreal as there are literal sky scrapers on the beach. We found a great campsite in the centre of the city and just steps from Miami beach called Ocean Beach Tourist Park .  
• Noosa: Home to stunning beaches and hikes as well as fab foodie spots and stylish shops. It is surfer territory so we found the area quite welcoming to campervans.
• Fraser Island: There is so many things to do on Fraser Island , but as it’s the the largest sand island in the world, we didn’t brave driving our campervan there. You can camp on Fraser Island, but 4WD is essential or visit with a tour like we did.  It is home to the famous dingos and 75-mile beach.
• Magnetic Island: Another highlight from our time campervanning in Australia as there are so many things to do on Magnetic Island (including camping with koalas!)

Western Australia Highlights

• No crowds: When it comes to campervanning in Australia many people don’t make it to the West (including us!) as it’s HUGE and sparseley populated. Western Australia takes up a third of Australia’s land mass but only 11% of the country’s population. This makes it ideal for vanlifers who want peace away from the crowds.
• Bucket list Destinations: Home to Perth , one of Australia’s most vibrant cities, stunning Rottnest Island where you can selfie with a quokka and camping with the kangaroos at pristine Lucky Bay.
• Pinnacles Desert: We’d also love to visit Nambung National Park as the Pinnacles Desert sounds out of this world. You can drive or hike through the unique rock formations as well as wake up to incredible sunsets here.
• The Kimberley Region: This remote and rugged area is known for the Bungle Bungle Range with bee-hive shaped domes, the majestic Mitchell Falls and the horizontal waterfalls at Talbot Bay . We’d love to fall asleep under the stunning starry skies here one day! 
• Margaret River: Famous for world-class wine, stunning beaches and lush forests, this region certainly sounds like our kind of place. The region boasts picturesque surf beaches, such as Surfers Point and Yallingup, and the stunning Boranup Karri Forest.

South Australia Highlights

• Barossa Valley: After completing your Great Ocean Road trip in Victoria you will enter South Australia, home to Adelaide but most importantly – Barossa Valley also known as wine country! We set up camp then hired bikes to enjoy as many wineries as possible but with over 50 in the region, we’d probably need a few months here!
• Robe for the seafood fans: Fish fans need to head to Robe   for some of the best seafood Australia has to offer. 
• Kangaroo Island: Use the sealink ferries to take your campervan across to Kangaroo island. Often referred to as “Australia’s Galapagos,” it is a wildlife paradise where you’ll find kangaroos (duh!), wallabies, sea lions, and koalas in the wild. The island also boasts pristine beaches, and the iconic Remarkable Rocks.
• Hahndorf:  One of the reasons we loved travelling Australia in a campervan is stumbling upon random little places like Hahndorf , Known for being Australia’s oldest German settlement. Walking around here we genuinely felt like we were in a German village it was a quirky experience we’ll never forget! 
• Flinders Ranges: The Flinders Ranges are famous for their rugged red-tinged peaks, deep gorges, and unique geological formations. Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater, is a popular spot for hiking and exploring ancient Aboriginal rock art and enjoy insane stargazing at  Arkaroola International Dark Sky Sanctuary . It’s only five hours drive from Adelaide to Ikara-Wilpena Pound, or embark on the ultimate road trip along the Explorer’s Way .

Northern Territory Highlights

• Uluru (Ayers Rock): Perhaps the most iconic natural landmark in Australia. This massive sandstone monolith, known for its vibrant red color, rises dramatically from the surrounding desert landscape. Witness the changing colors of Uluru at sunrise and sunset, explore the base walk to see ancient Indigenous rock art, and learn about the cultural significance of this sacred site to the local Anangu people.
• Kakadu National Park: Kakadu is Australia’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights within the park include ancient Aboriginal rock art sites at Nourlangie and Ubirr, the stunning Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, and the opportunity to see a wide range of wildlife, including crocodiles, wallabies, and various bird species. The park is also known for its cultural significance and offers a chance to learn about the traditions and heritage of the Bininj/Mungguy people.
• Darwin: As the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin is a vibrant tropical city known for its multicultural atmosphere, outdoor lifestyle, and proximity to natural wonders like Kakadu National Park. Learn more about Australia’s Indigenous culture, and enjoy the beautiful waterfront areas along the Timor Sea.
• Top Tip: As a tip, we never actually made it to The Northern Territory during our time campervanning in Australia. This was partly because of time, but also because we were in a rental van. Many rental companies do not allow you to go on unsealed roads which were common here and the red dust will stain all your belongings, body parts and vehicle a lovely orange tinge so be warned!

Capital Territory Highlights

• Canberra: Fun Fact – this territory only exists due to Sydney & Melbourne squabbling like siblings over who gets to be Australia’s capital. It is home to Canberra , the country’s capital and to be honest, very little else. It is roughly half way between the two cities but during our time campervanning in Australia we didn’t have time to squeeze in a visit and many locals told us not to bother. Let us know if you do and if it’s worth the detour!

Tasmania Highlights

• Best Road Trip Ever: we LOVED exploring Tasmania in a campervan but highly underestimated the size of this island. We only had a week here (check out our Tassie itinerary for full details) but realised it’s not much smaller than Scotland so had to squeeze in alot in a short amount of time. Allow longer if you can, as there are many highlights such as:
• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: This stunning national park is renowned for its rugged landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Cradle Mountain, one of its iconic peaks, is a favorite for hikers and photographers.
• MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): Located in Hobart, MONA is a unique and unconventional art museum known for its contemporary and thought-provoking exhibitions. The museum itself, carved into a sandstone cliff, is an architectural masterpiece and like no other art gallery we’ve ever been to!
• Gordon River Cruise: We highly recommend booking exploring the pristine wilderness of the Gordon River. Most cruises stop at Sarah Island so you can learn about the history of this notorious place and gain insight into the harsh conditions faced by convicts.
• Freycinet National Park: Alongside The Bay of Fires, this area was one of our favourites. Home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park is a haven for hikers, campers and families. 

ESSENTIALS FOR CAMPERVANNING IN AUSTRALIA

Due to the country’s unique terrain, invasive wildlife and diverse landscape, you need a few niche items for travelling Australia in a campervan.

In addition to our  road trip essentials , we have also created a detailed camping packing list , which again you can download and use offline – perfect for when you’re campervanning in Australia and have no signal!

As a tip, we use our Osprey backpacks in the van instead of suitcases as we find they take up less space and are easy to store out of sight when needed.

We put together an  entire guide on why these backpacks are the best  and even  a full video review – we’re that obsessed. 

Where to Buy Camping Gear in Australia

Missing anything from our camping checklist? Here is where to find the best equipment for campervanning in Australia:

• BCF : We needed a mosquito net for our van and found staff here so helpful. They explained how to fit effectively fit the net on our rental campervan without causing any damage. 
• Bunnings : It’s like an Aussie B&Q,it has a huge selection of camping gear, BBQs, tarpaulins, Gazebos and eskies/cool boxes.
• Camping World / Tentworld : If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the stores above, you’ll definitely find it in here.
• Kathmandu : Ideal for all things outdoors including camping stoves, backpacks and clothing.
• Facebook Groups / Gumtree : If you are only travelling Australia in a campervan for a few weeks, don’t buy new. Instead use Facebook Groups or search local Market Places or Gumtree. Cheaper and better for the environment!
• Big W / K-Mart : You’ll find these budget stores all over Aus. They have a huge selection of sleeping bags, cool boxes, camping chairs and more. We purchased our sunshades that we used when parked from here as they were the cheapest, we could find and we couldn’t fault the quality.

Looking for a free camping checklist?

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The number one essential for campervanning in Australia is insurance! Some insurance won't cover you on unsealed roads, while other incidents such as flooding, flat batteries, and running out of fuel etc can result in expensive call out or excess fees. So, make sure your insurance is correct and up to date when travelling Australia in a campervan!

MEAL IDEAS FOR TRAVELLING AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

We know travelling Australia in a campervan isn’t cheap. That’s why we try to save as much money as possible by cooking up a storm in our wee kitchen on wheels. Lucky for you, we have SO many guides and top tips to help you save money on campervan cooking all while ensuring you are not limited to boring pasta. Although we found most campsites had kitchens, we understand some people in a campervan may only have a little camping stove so our recipes are ideal for those limited on time, space and equipment as all meal ideas are quick, cheap and easy.

Not to mention we have an entire cookbook you can download and use offline to save you scrolling the internet when hanger strikes!

The Best Camping Recipes

• One Pot Wonders: If like us, you are campervanning in Australia with kids or simply only have one ring to cook on you might appreciate our one pot camping meals – they require minimum ingredients, time and washing up but promise big portions and flavour!
• For Vegetarians: It can be tricky to store meat in a campervan, so we swear by these vegetarian camping recipes. They are all super quick and easy, perfect after a long day on the road! 
• For Campervans: Before you begin, we recommend our cooking in a campervan tips  with storage ideas, recipe suggestions and more.
• A Recipe for Disaster: Finally, if you fancy a giggle we have a whole series of cooking videos on our YouTube . Please be warned these were made after a wine or two in New Zealand so we can’t promise you’ll learn much but it might inspire a camping recipe or two.

Why not take a copy of our campervan cookbook?

• Recipes with ideas for breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Digital E-book so you can download instantly
• Use offline on your phone, tablet, laptop or print off
• Recipe ideas without the need for bulky cookbooks or Wi-Fi

Price: £7.99

How to find campsites when travelling australia in a campervan.

With limited Wi-Fi and a country the size of Australia it can feel overwhelming trying to find campsites. Luckily for you these are our 4 tried & tested methods for finding clean, safe and affordable places to sleep each night. 

We have also created a more in depth video which explains each of these methods in detail as well as a few favourite hacks to finding campsites while campervanning in Australia.

1. Use Camping Apps

There are a tonne of apps you can use to find campsites, showers, water points, petrol stations, toilets and more. Here are the main apps we recommend while travelling Australia in a campervan:

• Wikicamps Australia | $7.99 | Apple / Google
• CamperMate | Free | Apple  /  Google
• Travellers Autobarn| Free |  Apple / Google  

Campstay | Free | Apple / Google

2. Ask Locals

If there was one thing we learned from camping in Australia its that locals LOVE to recommend shortcuts, hidden gems and share their secret camping spots.

Although some areas are quite remote, we found by popping in to local coffee shops or chatting with dog walkers you are bound to learn a tip or two about the local area and where your next night’s sleep will be. When campervanning in Australia, we always found the best campsites  were the ones only locals know about so don’t be scared to ask!

3. Facebook

Each state has camping Facebook groups dedicated to camping and vanlife fans. These groups are ideal for locals and tourists alike to share their favourite spots:

• Low Cost And Free Camping Australia Wide
• Camping in the west. WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• Free Camping Aussie
• Campsites in QLD & Northern NSW
• Free Camping Around Australia

From Facebook to an actual book. Millenials might roll their eyes but internet or phone coverage can be extremely limited at times when travelling Australia in a campervan. That’s why we recommend keeping an Australia camping guide like the one below handy so you have a back up when your phone battery dies or you’re stranded without signal and sleeping arrangements.

Book detailing campsites of Australia.

How to save money on campsites in Australia:

• Read our guide: We have an entire guide to camping in Australia that covers our favourite campsites, tips for free camping and more. Start there!
• Visit in the shoulder season: We found campsites to be anywhere between $25 – $70 during peak Season (December to February.) but around half price in the Winter (July-September) From all the paid sites we used when travelling Australia in a campervan, we averaged at $40 a night.
• Book more than one night: When camping in the tourist hotspot of Byron Bay we found a “5 nights for the price of 3” deal. These are common throughout Aus and a great way to save money in popular locations.
• Book directly: Although we love the convenience and comparison tools on third party sites, there is often discount codes or special offer pages when booking direct. You won’t find these deals elsewhere!
• Join a loyalty scheme:  Through our campervan rental we received a Top Parks & Discovery Parks G’day Rewards Keyring. This gave us 10% off ALL of their campsites as well as earn loyalty points & money off local attractions – every penny counts!
• Use Unpowered Sites: If you’re equipped for it, unpowered sites are usually cheaper than powered sites. When campervanning in Australia we mixed things up and only used a paid, powered site every three or four days. The remaining nights we used free campsites or unpowered sites.

Want to know our favourite campsites from our time travelling Australia in a campervan? Our camping in Australia guide covers the BEST free and paid sites for each state we visited. From the campsite with koalas roaming wild to the one with a swimming pool and kangaroo neighbours - we spill our fave secret spots!

HOW TO STAY COOL WHEN TRAVELLING AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

As a Scottish redhead, it was never going to be the wildlife that I feared in Australia but instead, the heat. Especially as we began our Australia campervan trip in Summer when high humidity and heatwaves were common.

Luckily for you, we sweated it out and even I survived with thanks to these have 10 tips for keeping cool in a campervan in Australia . While some may seem like common sense, we learned ALOT from locals and other camping pals we found on the road. I highly recommend a read, even if you are not travelling in Summer as Australia in general is quite a cosy camping destination.

TOP TIPS FOR CAMPERVANNING IN AUSTRALIA

• Before of Wildlife: Firstly, try and park up at your campsite for the night around dinner time (5-6pm.) Driving at dusk is a major risk when campervanning in Australia due to kangaroo activity. Always store food in sealed containers to avoid critters invading and  read up on the correct first aid prior should any bites occur. Finally, be a responsible traveller and never feed the wildlife as this can encourage aggressive behaviour not to mention mess up the natural eco-system.
• Forbidden Free Camping: Do not risk free camping if it’s forbidden, or there is signage for self-contained campervans only. If you do, you can expect an expensive fine. 
• Don’t fuel Bush Fires: Portable BBQ’s or a wee campfire under the stars may seem harmless but unfortunately bush fires are super common. You’ll also find controlled bush fires in certain areas, so don’t be alarmed, these are created safely on purpose to prevent more devastating fires. If campfires are allowed, follow the rules, use established fire pits and always fully extinguish before leaving.
• Drinking Water: It should be common sense but before embarking on a huge drive or before parking up for the night always check you have enough drinking water. Some campsites only have rain water which isn’t always safe to drink, this will be called “potable water.” so you’ll need to bring with you.
• Fuel Planning : Keep an eye on fuel levels, as petrol stations can be far apart in remote regions. Carry extra fuel containers if needed, and use the apps we mentioned above to track locations and prices.
• Park legally: Darren actually got fined for this so beware of this particular parking rule when travelling Australia in a campervan. Legally, you MUST park facing the same direction as traffic in the adjacent lane or line of traffic. It’s a rule in the UK but not one you get fined for if you break it, in Aus however they strictly enforce it. 
• 4 Wheel Drive: Whether its red dust, driving on the beach, unsealed roads or flood risks, areas are marked for 4WD only for a reason.  You will not be covered by insurance if you take a rental on these roads (not to mention how long emergency vehicles and breakdown vehicle will take to access you) so only enter them if you are well equipped and experienced to do so.
• Caravan Free Roads:  On a similar note, some roads are so narrow and corners so tight that campervans or caravans are prohibited entirely. These rules are for your safety and others on the road. 
• Keep It Clean: Instead of just leaving a campsite as you found it, aim to leave it even BETTER than you found it. We love the Aussie ethos of “pick 3 for the sea” and  ensure any campfires are definitely out before leaving. 
• Navigation Tools : Finally, invest in good navigation tools and maps, as GPS/phone signal can be unreliable in remote areas. No one wants to be lost in the outback when campervanning in Australia so save your route offline before you set off. 

We trust that our guide to travelling Australia in campervan has ignited your wanderlust, debunked any misconceptions and answered all of your questions.  We genuinely believe that opting for campervanning over traditional accommodations, like hostels, has enriched our journey with countless cherished moments. There’s a reason we keep going back for more and taking our children along too! Whether you crave heading off the beaten track to bask in the country’s remarkable scenery, want to connect with welcoming locals, or fall asleep under the stars – there is so much to love about having your own home on wheels (even for a week or two!) We’d love to know your  favourite campervan spots and any ingenious tips for touring Australia in a campervan so more of our readers can embark on an awesome Aussie road trip! 

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Van Life Australia – A Guide On Everything You Need

Updated on: May 2024

Embarking on a van life adventure in Australia can feel like a big leap, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. Are you dreaming of hitting the open road, but feeling a bit lost about how to start your van life journey? You’re not alone! In this friendly and easy-to-follow blog, we’re going to share some top tips and essential steps to help you dive into this exciting lifestyle.

We know a thing or two about van life because we’ve been there ourselves! We’ve built our own camper van from scratch and called it home for over two years. Plus, we’ve rented heaps of camper vans before we decided to embrace van life full-time. So, whether you’re just curious or ready to start your own van life adventure, we’ve got loads of insights and advice to share. Let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of van life in Australia together!

• Van life is a popular lifestyle choice for many people in Australia who want to pursue their passions and adventure.
• There are some steps that need to be taken in order to start living the van life , such as getting an old or new van, preparing mentally, and deciding on a location.
• It is safe to live in a van as long as you follow some common sense safety tips and respect the law.
• The best van for you will depend on what type of experience you are looking for. There are many factors to consider when choosing a van, such as a drivetrain, suspension, roof height.

Why Is Van Life So Popular in Australia ?

This is a fantastic place to begin. After all, van life Australia isn’t exactly a new concept . In the 1950s, Volkswagen debuted their van. So, why has a new generation chosen to reimagine it as the ultimate getaway? Is there a substantive meaning behind the hashtag #vanlife, or does it simply resemble what Instagram users profess to be “the good life”?

The current worldwide epidemic has helped boost the popularity of camper van living in Australia. With a younger generation finding it more and more challenging to get a house and put off parenthood, as well as a portion of middle-aged individuals wishing to break free from the rigid 9-to-5 routine. The internet has enabled people to generate revenue without requiring them to have a regular home.

Of course, it is crucial to remember that social media photographs are heavily edited and merely represent the most pleasing aspects of living in a van full time. “Expect rainbows and unicorns only occasionally; van life can be difficult,” I once heard some one in a van life community say, “Keep in mind that van life is a privilege and not the most convenient way to travel.”

Living in a van may be uncomfortable, too hot, cold, noisy, filthy, and even hazardous at times. If you prefer things to go according to plan and life is generally straightforward, Van life might not be for you.

Van Life Australia Everything You Need to Know

There are five steps that van lifers must go through before starting their van life adventure in Australia. By following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to living out your dreams! First, you’ll need to get an old van or buy a new van. You can find a good van at your local car dealership, carsales.com.au, eBay , social media groups, and even finding an ex Australia post van is a great option.

Second, you’ll want to give the van some love! If it isn’t in good condition when you bring it home, make sure that you can afford to fix it up. You’ll also want to think of ways you can make the van comfortable for yourself and your van lifemates, so be sure that you have a well-stocked toolbox!

Third, decide where you want to go in Australia. Van life is mainly contingent on location because van lifers need specific amenities such as showers, cooking facilities, and grocery stores. If you’re in a rural place with few resources, the van will likely end up being incredibly uncomfortable over time!

Fourthly, you’ll need to purchase insurance. While it may be tempting to go without, know that the consequences can include fines or even jail time! You’ll also want to have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in your van for emergencies.

Lastly, it would be best to get prepared mentally before you start living on the road full-time. Van life is a hobby for some and a lifestyle change for others. You’ll need to establish your goals, such as travelling around Australia or living on the road long-term.

Before starting with van life adventure in Australia, you can do many other things, but these five steps will get you started! Van life is a fantastic experience that everyone should try at least once in their life.

So, if you’re looking for a way to travel or break free from the standard routine and want to experience something new: consider sharing your home with a van! You won’t regret it and will be sure to laugh at all of those who scoffed in disbelief when you told them that was what you wanted out of life.

Exploring the Unique Aspects of Australian Van Life

1. Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife Encounters

Australia’s van life offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a variety of landscapes. From the iconic Great Ocean Road’s rugged coastlines to the vast, arid expanse of the Outback, and the lush greenery of the Daintree Rainforest, each region presents a unique backdrop for van lifers. Wildlife encounters are a highlight, with chances to spot kangaroos in the Grampians, koalas along the Great Ocean Road, and an array of birdlife in tropical Queensland.

2. Rich Cultural Experiences

Van life in Australia isn’t just about natural beauty; it’s also a journey through rich cultural landscapes. Engage with Indigenous communities to learn about the world’s oldest living cultures, especially in places like the Northern Territory. Local festivals, such as Tasmania’s Dark Mofo or Queensland’s Woodford Folk Festival, offer insights into Australia’s contemporary cultural scene. Sampling regional cuisines, like Barossa Valley’s wines or Tasmania’s fresh seafood, adds a flavorful dimension to the journey.

3. Navigating Seasonal Variations

Australia’s size means van lifers can chase the perfect weather. Head north to escape the southern winter, enjoying tropical warmth in places like Cairns or the Kimberley. Conversely, summer months are ideal for exploring southern gems like Tasmania or Victoria’s Alpine regions. Preparing your van for varying climates is crucial, from ensuring good ventilation for tropical heat to having adequate insulation for cooler southern temperatures.

4. Overcoming Unique Challenges

The vast distances and remote areas in Australia pose unique challenges. It’s essential to plan meticulously, especially when traversing the Outback or other isolated regions. Carry extra supplies like water, fuel, and emergency kits. Understanding how to maintain and repair your van can be invaluable, especially in remote areas where professional help may be hours away.

5. Iconic Routes and Must-Visit Destinations

Australia is home to some of the world’s most iconic road trips. The Red Centre Way leads you to the heart of Australia, Uluru, while the Savannah Way offers an adventurous route across the top end. Each journey is peppered with unique sights, from the mystical Uluru to the ancient rainforests of Queensland. These routes are more than just drives; they’re passages through diverse ecosystems and histories.

6. Local Regulations and Responsible Travel

Understanding local regulations is key to a successful van life experience in Australia. This includes knowing where free camping is permitted, respecting national park rules, and being aware of any permits required for activities like beach driving. Practising ‘Leave No Trace’ principles is respectful and essential for preserving Australia’s natural beauty for future generations.

7. Community Engagement and Social Connections

The van life community in Australia is vibrant and welcoming. Engage with fellow travellers at popular spots like Byron Bay or the Margaret River. Online forums and social media groups offer a platform to connect, share tips, and plan meetups. Annual gatherings and events for van lifers provide opportunities to share experiences and make lasting connections.

Is It Safe To Live In a Van in Australia?

It is safe to live in a van, as long as you respect the law and your fellow people. One way of staying safe on the road is following some common sense tips that can help keep you secure:

• Always lock doors when sleeping or away from your vehicle.
• Never leave valuables visible through windows.
• Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Common sense can go a long way, but van lifers should also watch for fellow people’s safety. For example, if you see someone in trouble (e.g., a broken-down vehicle), offer assistance and call for help as soon as possible.

It is essential to respect the law when living on the road because rules can vary from place to place! Some areas have laws against sleeping in vans, so be sure to do your research as well as check out the local by-laws.

What Is The Best Van to Convert to a Camper Van in Australia?

A van type offers something for everyone and every budget, from a small van like a Toyota Hiace to a fully fitted motorhome like a Mercedes Sprinter. But when thinking about any van, the first step is to think about your needs and start a checklist.

The following are some critical checklist questions:

• Will it be my daily driver?
• Will I be going off-road?
• How many people does it need to carry?
• Will I be trying to free camp or pay for caravan parks ?
• Will I cook regularly or mainly eat out?
• What gear will I need to carry?
• Will I want a full bathroom and hot shower?

It takes a lot of planning to choose the right van. Therefore it’s worth writing down your requirements and desires. You’ll have to rank these items according to your circumstances and funds.

For instance, if living space is essential, look for something at least four meters in length. But if living space isn’t vital to you, then a smaller van will do. And remember, the more area you have, the heavier your caravan/campervan gets, so be sure that it’s still within your vehicle specifications.

If you are looking for a van conversion with good storage space, then look for something long and thin so you can pack lots of things. If weight is important to you, think about if the van needs all that stuff inside it? Do I need my bedding, or do I want to sleep on top of everything else in the back? If your van is too heavy, it will be less efficient and cost you more to run.

Once you have chosen the perfect van for your purposes, it’s time to get quotes from local body shops that will work on converting or completing the build yourself.

What Makes A Good Van For Van Life?

The van that’s right for you will depend on what type of van life experience you are looking for. Is it just about having fun? Or is there a more practical reason behind your choice, such as needing to carry lots of people or items with you?

Regardless of the brand or model, there are common elements of any vehicle that you must be aware of. Once you have decided on the size of your van, it’s worth keeping in mind some of the below points before starting your build.

• Drivetrain: 4WD, Rear Wheel Drive Only, Front Wheel Drive Only
• Suspension: Make sure the load rating is enough for what you plan to add to the van.
• Roof Height: Would you like internal standing space
• Total Kms: not always lower Kms mean it’s a good van for van life.

When picking out your van, there are a few factors to consider.

Our own van is a 2017 Mercedes Sprinter LWB, We love the high roof and extra space inside. We have put together how much van life cost if your wondering what it could cost per month.

Source: @werollwithit

How to Convert A Van in to a Motorhome

This will all depend on your budget and skillset if you plan to tackle the build yourself. You could throw a mattress in the back or convert it into a tiny home on wheels. But part of van life is finding and transforming a van to your needs and wants.

It’s essential to do your research before starting your van conversion . There will be some changes needed for Australian conditions, such as weatherproofing and insulation.

It is not advisable to work with gas in a van. Still, if you plan to do this, it’s best to consult an expert because the last thing anyone wants is for their campervan or camper trailer to explode!

The great outdoors is generally the reason most people buy and convert vans for vanlife in Australia. However, what’s inside is just as crucial for your overall experience. The time spent researching and planning your setup, such as storage, sleeping arrangements, cooking appliances, will pay off in the long run.

Another thing to check before converting your van is if there are any local laws governing changes to the vehicle. For example, it is possible to have your van re-registered as a motorhome in Australia once certain items have been met. Like gas and electrical certificate, having the van re-weighed to confirm it’s under the van’s load rating. This can help reduce yearly insurance; however, it may increase the annual registration. 

To Buy or DIY a Camper Van

DIY maybe for some people, but unless you are handy around the house or have skills in building, this might not be a good idea. If you want to save money, buying an old van and converting it yourself will work out cheaper than paying someone else to do all of the hard work.

However, you need to be prepared that it might take twice as long or more if things go wrong if you attempt to complete the build yourself.

Many people convert their vans, and they seem to love doing it themselves; however, there is a lot of time involved with no warranty on the work. So this may not be for everyone.

You will find thou in most cases, you will pay a premium price to purchase a van that has already been converted, so you might find it more cost-effective if you buy an empty van to convert. This option obviously will take more time and research. Still, the advantage is knowing what work has been done, plus you have the opportunity to create a build that suits your wants and needs.

Source:  @wadeanddani

Van Life Seating Options

Whatever the purpose you decide for your van, you will need somewhere to sit when you are not driving, depending on how many people will be travelling.

Seats are one of the most space consuming items in your van. It’s essential to consider their placement and function, are they able to be moved, can storage be utilized under the seat. Having seats (or anything thing when converting a van, for that matter) that can serve a dual purpose can make a huge difference in your vanlife experience.

Your final layout will depend on the size of your van as well as your priorities. Put pen to paper and draw out our ideas before committing to a final design. A good idea is to mark out the layout in the van; if this is not possible, add the measurements to your driveway to give you a good idea if your plan will work.

Seating options can include:

• Swivel seats that turn into a bed.
• Fold-down seating which turns into a bed or storage.
• Fixed seating with built-in cupboards and drawers for storage underneath the seating area, you may have to sacrifice some of your floor space to accommodate this option, but it will mean more room

Source: @thetravellingshed

Sleeping Options When Converting a Camper Van

Sleeping arrangements are one of the most important factors when deciding on how you want to travel. With so many different options available, it’s challenging to know what will suit your needs . There is not a right or wrong answer here but having a plan in place with considerations for where and what sleeping arrangement you would like before starting can save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run.

There are a few different sleeping arrangements that you can have in your van, depending on what is important to you.

• Convertible beds are great if you have limited space, they can be used as a bench or lounge when not in use and pulled out to create more room for sleeping. Convertibility is achieved by installing hinges underneath the seat to fold up into a bed at nighttime.
• Fixed Bed – A fixed bed is ideal if you want a good-sized bed; however, it will take up most of your floor space and can be difficult to access storage underneath.
• Pop Up Roof – Pop up roofs offer a great way to create additional space and can be used as an extra bed.

What works will depend on just what your budget is, how much space you have and what priorities are for your vanlife experience.

Cooking Options For Van Life

Source: @ventured_campers

Your cooking design when converting your van will depend on your usage. A couple living full and part-time will significantly differ from a single person using their converted van for weekend getaways. Your setup will also depend on your cooking experiences.

You might also want to consider how you will be cooking in your van. The majority of people who convert their vans choose to use a small camping stove and cookware. However, there are other options such as a gas stove or even the oven in certain vans. Remember that storage space might be limited, so you need to keep this in mind when looking at different options.

If you are looking for a place to sit and cook your meals, finding an area wide enough to accommodate the stove and any cooking equipment will be ideal.

Some cooking options are:

• Portable gas stove
• Fitted gas stove
• Electric cooktop
• Portable electric cooktop

Power Options For Van Life

Regardless of your camping plans, you will need to consider your power needs and usage carefully. At some point in their journey, most van lifers will experience the sinking moment the key turns, and nothing happens due to a dead battery.

Generally speaking, there are three crucial things when living on the road: water, fuel, and power. Running out of any of these can be frustrating and could even be dangerous in some extreme cases.

With so many appliances and devices that need recharging, such as fridges , lights, laptops and phones. Even a short weekend trip can quickly kill your starter battery.

There are several systems to help combat this. It’s worth speaking with other van users to professional auto electricians, as well as thinking about your current and future needs. Adding additional cables now will save you a headache in the long term and possibly could turn into an expensive task.

Solutions to consider are

• Dual Battery System – Adding a 2nd battery that is isolated for the starter battery. Your equipment will run off the 2nd battery.
• Solar Panels – Solar can be used to recharge your additional battery.
• Mains 240V – This can be used to top up your batteries or to run your appliance or both

Keep in mind adding any of the above solutions also require additional items such as management systems, fuses, dc to dc chargers, power inverters .

A great thing about vanlife is the ability to go off the grid. Staying in one place for too long isn’t fun. Still, it would be even better to have power options that can extend your nomadic lifestyle away from civilization – it’s all possible with these handy tips.

YOUR STORAGE OPTIONS WHEN CONVERTING A CAMPERVAN

If you are already used to any other type of camping, you will know the need only to pack the essential items and save space. However, with a campervan, the benefit is you will be able to bring more gear and include some home comforts. This is especially true for those who wish to make longer journeys or live full time in a campervan.

When using your campervan of any size, the key to keeping it simple, which means having your most used items on hand for ease of use. On the one hand, this relates to the apparent essentials like clothing, water and food. Still, it’s also essential to consider the other reason.

For example, suppose you are passionate about mountain biking. In that case, you probably don’t want to have to build and break down your bike for each ride, you will need to think about internal storage, or an external rack might be worth your while.

The main areas to focus on when creating your storage options,

• Roof – A roof is a good place for the items which do not get used daily
• Towbar – an excellent option to carry mountain bikes or a scooter. You most likely will not use this to tow a trailer; however, it might come in handy from time to time.
• Under the van – This is the perfect location for your freshwater and grey water tanks .

I hope you enjoyed my post on the vanlife tips for living in a van. If you feel like it’s time for an epic adventure, then do it! You’ll be surprised at how good life can be when we take risks and try new things. It will also help to know that vans are super affordable with many available options today. So there’s no excuse not to give this lifestyle change a shot. If we open ourselves to experiencing all of the world’s wonders, the world is our oyster! So, what are you waiting for? Vanvlifers, unite!

Wade & Dani

Hi! We’re Wade and Dani, We’re currently travelling around Australia in our 2017 Mercedes Sprinter Camper van and sharing our best experiences, stories, reviews and adventures as we go along. Make sure you follow long on our Instagram

Our Wanders

Our Ultimate Guide To Plan A Road Trip In Australia

Are you planning a road trip in Australia? Are you crafting your most ideal Australia campervan itinerary? Not sure where to start?

No wonder. Australia is a huge and faraway land that’s likely very different from where you live. There’s so much to see (too much, it seems). Your Australia road trip might be a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

We’ve been there. We visited Australia on a three week campervan trip for the first time. Since then we moved to Sydney and continue exploring this vast country on road trips and camping trips. We are here to help you plan a road trip in Australia.

This post is your guide to road trip Australia, with lots of first-timer questions clarified, tons of tips and possible itinerary ideas.

Whatever you do, road trip Australia

The very first thing: Australia is one of those countries that are just meant for road trips and campervan trips (more on that debate later). It has cool cities, but it’s the landscapes that impress the most . We had the best wildlife experiences on the road, as well.

But beware, distances are long, so make sure you plan an Australian road trip itinerary that’s not all about being in the car and driving . If you want to see places that are very far from each other, it might be worth flying between them instead of driving.

The most important questions to consider when creating the best Australia road trip itinerary

You won’t see everything within a few weeks (even within a few months). We get it, Australia is a faraway dream destination, and you want to visit all the sights that are on your bucket list.

But Australia is almost as big as the continental USA, distances are long, and some regions are not that ideal to visit in certain seasons. So you need to set priorities, and plan a road trip itinerary that fits you the best and leaves time to actually enjoy the places you end up visiting.

Do you need help planning the best itinerary for your trip? Hire me as your personal travel planner.

Here are some questions to consider:

Which places interest you the most?

Do you want to spend time on beaches? Diving? Hiking? Observing wildlife? Do you want to visit cities? Most visitors typically want a combination of these.

Our opinion is that while Australian cities are attractive, they are no match for the natural beauties and wildlife in Australia . If you like visiting cities on your travels, don’t miss them. If you’re more nature-focused, dedicate a few days to the cities and spend the rest of your time in nature.

Bucket list destinations in Australia

Here are the typical bucket list items for each region – just in case you think your bucket list is too short:

East coast:

• Great Ocean Road
• Blue Mountains
• Royal National Park
• Whitsunday Islands
• Fraser Island
• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree National Park

Western Australia:

• beaches and ocean drive of Esperance
• Rottnest Island
• The Pinnacles
• Ningaloo Reef
• Karijini National Park

Southern Australia:

• Kangaroo Island
• Lake Bumbunga
• Limestone Coast & Blue Lake
• Eyre Peninsula
• Flinders Ranges

Northern Territory:

• Litchfield National Park
• Kakadu National Park
• Kings Canyon Rim Walk

And we missed out Tasmania – which is also Australia, yet a different world and countless more bucket list items.

When are you visiting?

Any time of the year can be good, but for different places.

Sydney and Brisbane are great destinations all year, tropical Queensland and the Northern Territory is best between April and October (Australian summer is the rainy season there, with floods and hurricanes), Victoria and Southern Australia is between October and April (Australian winter months are chilly there).

Western Australia is so large that it has several climates: the southwestern region has temperate climate with four seasons and rainy winters, the northern region is tropical with a wet and a dry season.

Christmas and Easter vacations are very busy, you better avoid them.

How much time do you have?

If you only have a few weeks, we recommend choosing between the east coast (Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland) or Western Australia. Maybe you can add a bit of the Northern Territory or Southern Australia to any of the two routes. Maybe, if you have 3+ weeks.

Car or campervan?

Let me ask the same question in a different way: would you sleep in your car, or do you prefer rooms with four walls? If you’d like to try out the campervan life, you couldn’t find a better place than Australia. That’s what we did, and we liked it very much!

But it’s not for everyone. You have a small living space (though you’ll likely spend most of your time outdoors), and you make compromises on comfort.

But an Australia campervan trip is the most flexible and most budget-friendly way to explore this country . It means countless free and paid options to spend the night, and also countless opportunities to see wildlife. Australia is safe, the highways and main roads are good, and it’s usually warm outside, so you don’t need to worry about heating.

However, the word “campervan” can cover a range of vehicles . From small converted mini-vans that are suitable for only two people to large family-sized motorhomes and RVs with full amenities. But all of them have two things in common: they are suitable for sleeping, and they offer some opportunity for cooking. Cooking supplies are often provided if you rent the campervan.

Campervans usually have two separate batteries: one runs the engine, and the other runs things like interior lights or a small refrigerator. So you don’t need to worry about the engine not starting the following day, because you keep the interior lights on for too long.

How to choose the campervan that’s suitable for you?

Let’s pretend you’re in for a campervan trip in Australia. Exciting! But from all kinds of small and big, simple and luxurious campervans, which one is the best for you? Well, only you can decide that, but let us help with the most important questions.

You need to choose the size based on two criteria that are equally important: how many people are you traveling with? And how large of a vehicle are you comfortable driving?

Our car was a converted minivan that was just enough for the two of us and our stuff. But driving it was no different than driving a larger kind of car. We didn’t aim for luxury, but it didn’t cost much more than a regular car rental would have.

Should it be self-contained?

Self-contained vehicles have some sort of toilet onboard. It can make things easier if there’s no running water (or any other kind of toilet) where you camp, but you’re also in charge of dumping your waste. There are dedicated dump points for this purpose.

In our opinion, you don’t really need a self-contained vehicle in Australia. (Unless you stay out there in Nowhere). You find plenty of public toilets, especially along the densely populated east coast, even if there’s no running water (composting toilets). Most of them are nice and clean, and they are all free.

This is a dumb question to ask in Australia, by the way, since all public toilets are free to use, even in the cities. (Coming from Europe, it was not at all obvious to us.)

Should it be 4WD?

It depends. Australia is the country of extremes. But I doubt you need a 4WD for the full length of your road trip in general . Certainly not for a campervan road trip.

The most famous attractions are usually easily accessible, and no 4WD is needed if you stay on the main tourist path . However, if you’d like exploring off the beaten track, well, that’s another story. You can truly get off that beaten path in Australia, and certain mountain roads or desert roads require high clearance 4WD vehicles. Sand islands, like Fraser Island, are also in this category.

But again, in a few weeks, you’ll likely have no time to leave the main tourist route, and the most popular campervan itineraries for Australia don’t require 4WD vehicles.

Check your specific route, and if you’re in doubt, contact the rental company to make sure your car is suitable for what you want to use it for, and it’s allowed to be taken to those roads/regions. Your other option is to sign up for a tour to visit those off-the-beaten-track attractions.

Any extras you need

When choosing the right campervan and the company to rent it from, you better consider whether you need any extras. Like one-way rental, an extra driver, insurance cover, unlimited kilometers, navigation, bedding, towels, camping chairs …

They may or may not be included in the rental by default, and adding them can significantly change the overall price, especially one-way rental at certain companies.

Sample Australian road trips

There are people who drive all around Australia, but most of us don’t have that much time. Whether you plan a regular road trip or a campervan road trip in Australia, here are the most scenic routes you can choose from:

East coast: Cairns to Brisbane (~2 weeks)

One of the most popular routes for a 2 week road trip in Australia. It’s well-developed and fairly busy (by Aussie standards). The best time to do it is between April and October.

Daintree National Park is likely inaccessible in the wet season.

Highlights: Daintree National Park, Great Barrier Reef, Captain Cook Highway, Mission Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Fraser Island, Wooroonooran National Park, Noosa National Park & the Sunshine Coast

East coast: Brisbane to Sydney (3-5 days)

This is a shorter drive with mostly beaches (wonderful beaches!) on the way. It’s ideal for those who dream about a coastal campervan tour in Australia, with lots of fabulous beach stops.

You can combine this route with either the drive from Cairns to Brisbane, or you can drive down to Melbourne, with a stop at Jervis Bay. This area is enjoyable all year.

We actually combined this drive with the one from Cairns, and the one to Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road. (It was a long drive.)

Highlights: Byron Bay & the Gold Coast, beach hopping, Sydney, Royal National Park, Blue Mountains

Great Ocean Road: Melbourne to Adelaide (a few days)

The Great Ocean Road is often mentioned among the best scenic drives in the world – and for a good reason. It’s likely included in any campervan itinerary for Australia, and we recommend taking your time and doing some hiking along the way, as well, to see the best of it.

The best time to do it is from October to April.

Read our guide to the Great Ocean Road!

Highlights: Twelve Apostles & Port Campbell National Park, Great Otway National Park & Kennett River Koala Walk

Through the Australian Outback: Adelaide to Darwin (~2 weeks)

This is not a typical first timers’ Australia road trip itinerary, but it runs through some uniquely Aussie landscapes and gives access to the famous Red Center. You can drive it all year, but Australian summers are extremely hot in the desert.

Highlights: Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kakadu National Park

Through the Nullarbor Plain: Adelaide to Perth (~2 weeks)

The Nullarbor is famous for being a long, straight route without a single curve. Adelaide and Perth are two of the lesser-visited cities, but whoever ends up visiting them ends up falling in love.

If you’re road tripping Australia for the first time and only for a few weeks, it’s not the best choice. But if you have more time, it can be combined with another long drive along the western coastline.

This area has four seasons, so it’s best to avoid Australian winters (from June to August).

Highlights: Cape Le Grand National Park, stargazing, cage diving with sharks in Port Lincoln

West coast: Perth to Broome (~2 weeks)

This is a remote and sparsely populated area, with some very special attractions on the coast and inland. It’s a tropical area, and the wet season (between November and March) is best to avoid.

Highlights: Ningaloo Reef, Perth, Karijini National Park, Shark Bay

Where to stay on your Australia road trip

If you prefer a room with a bed, hostels can be the most affordable option, and you find many across Australia. However, the fact that they are the most affordable places with four walls to stay doesn’t mean they’re cheap. Even a simple bunk bed in a shared room costs about 60-80 AUD/night.

Obviously, cities and more densely populated areas offer a larger variety, and you’ll be left with few choices or nothing at all in more remote regions.

Search for hostels here!

Condos or apartments

For those who’d like to have privacy, or their own kitchen to cook, you can find apartments on Booking.com or condos on . They seem to be a luxurious option compared to hostels, but if you travel with a bigger company, the price for a condo might be nearly the same as booking a separate bed for each of you in a hostel .

Campgrounds and holiday parks

However, the Aussie way to travel around is staying in campgrounds, holiday parks or free campsites. Those are your options on your Australia road trip with a campervan.

We were switching between free sites, campgrounds and holiday parks during our road trip, and it’s never a problem to find one nearby. On this note, having a campervan doesn’t mean you can pull over anywhere you fancy, and sleep in your van. This kind of “freedom camping” is not allowed anymore in Australia, at least not in the inhabited areas.

If you choose one of the more remote caravan routes in Australia, free night stays might be easier to find, but you still need water and electricity from time to time.

The average price for the simplest unpowered site for a campervan ranges from 40-70 AUD/night, depending on how fancy the park is, and where it’s located. Holiday parks are usually more expensive than campgrounds, and beloved beach areas, like Byron Bay, are also expensive. So is living in your van really a budget-friendly option? It could easily be, especially if you’re not alone. The campervan is both your car and accommodation, and also, you can spend many nights at free sights.

The advantage of campgrounds and holiday parks are the great amenities and the beautiful location. We often camped on the beach or right behind the beach, we enjoyed large and well-equipped outdoor kitchens, and clean, spacious amenity blocks. Some had coin-operated washing and drying machines, too, so we could wash our clothes. Some had private pools for guests. Sure, they can be pricey, but they actually outshined quite a number of budget hotels and hostels we’ve stayed at during our travels throughout the years.

Free sites for overnight stay with a campervan

Then there is free camping. There are lots of dedicated free sites where you can stay overnight: parking lots, public parks, rest areas, gas stations. Some hotels (mostly backpacker hostels) allow travelers to stay in their backyard overnight.

These sites differ greatly in the offered amenities though. Most of them have public toilets, but definitely not all of them have showers, drinking water, picnic benches, or even running water. Some free sites are located in nice areas, others are parking lots along the highway with no scenery (but constant noise).

We tried a lot of these free sites, and we were very happy with them. We didn’t expect a lot from them either, the point was saving some money.

How to find the free overnight sites?

With WikiCamps. Honestly, we’ve never paid for a mobile app ever before, but the WikiCamps Australia app was well worth that couple of dollars. What does it offer? All the information about the free and paid sites, campgrounds and holiday parks.

Its greatest strength is the insane amount of information about the free options. Because holiday parks have a website, anyway, but who would tell you that there is a rest area 2 kilometers from where you are, it offers toilets and drinking water, and you are allowed to stay there for 48 hours? WikiCamps will.

We could search for places to stay based on our current location. We could filter them based on tons of different criteria: free site or not, and what kind of amenities it offers. People can comment on the sites, as well, and that’s incredibly useful. That’s how we figured out whether the site is clean, crowded or noisy. There are lots of recent comments about sites along the best campervan routes in Australia.

We also found detailed information about showers in the comments. Free sites offer different kinds of showers (or not). Some are free, some are coin-operated. Sometimes you need to pay and ask for the key at the gas station. All this information is available in the comments.

Since a lot of people use this app, we found comments written some days ago about any site we were interested in. It made our trip so much easier! And this was the main reason we didn’t feel disappointed about any of the free sites: we got what we expected.

What to pack for a campervan trip

Of course, you’ll have your luggage full of clothes and stuff for the perfect holiday. But what is that you need for a campervan road trip specifically? We have good news: not much.

The most important things are usually included in the rental (or can be added easily): cooking supplies, bedding and towels. There are some items though that’s not, but they’re incredibly useful:

• Headlamp : better than a flashlight, because your hands are free. We often cooked our meals with our headlamps on when it was dark. Free sights are often not lit well.
• Hand sanitizer : even the smallest vans have their own water tank, but you better use water sparingly if you stay at free sights with no running water.
• Wet wipes : the quickest way to clean anything in the van
• Dishwashing liquid and sponge
• Toilet paper
• Chargers and spare batteries : campervans usually have an extra battery to use for the small fridge, indoor lights or charging whatever you need to charge, but the bottleneck can be the number of charging ports.

4 tips for driving in Australia

Have an offline map

You often have to survive without internet and even cell coverage in Australia. So even if you have a local SIM card with a data plan, download an offline map in advance. Maps could cost you a lot of data, anyway.

Avoid driving during the night, at dusk and down

In addition to the usual risks of driving at night, you have a special reason not to do it in Australia. Those super cute animals, like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats or possums, get active after the sun goes down. You can see many dead kangaroos by the road, and this should be a warning sign. And no, it’s not only risky for the poor kangaroo, but for you, too. Some kangaroos are big enough to cause serious damage to your car in case of a collision.

Don’t attempt “4WD only” drives in a 2WD

It’s unlikely that you need a 4WD car in general, but certain roads require it. Take that seriously.

What else could we say? Enjoy your trip and don’t ever forget to keep left. 🙂

Related articles:

10 Best Central Coast Beaches, NSW, Australia

Coogee To Bondi Walk, The Best Coastal Walk In Sydney

The 21 Most Instagrammable Places In Sydney

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Which are the best lesser-known hikes in North America?

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Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

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Life on the Road

Travelling Australia

Welcome to Trip In A Van.

We are passionate about family travel and made a conscious decision to unplug from the daily grind and connect as a family. Making memories and exploring Australia was fulfilling a lifelong dream. Now it’s a lifestyle and career using the knowledge and experiences we’ve gained from our time on the road.

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Justin, Bec, Jack, Billy & Charli.

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Exploring Australia with a campervan is a classic road trip. Many areas of this vast country are remote enough that to really enjoy the quiet splendor of the Australian landscape you need to be relatively self-sufficient. And Australian campervan holidays are not only a popular option for those visiting from overseas, but native Australians are also renowned for loving the campervan and caravan circuit.

However without proper planning, traveling in a campervan can be more expensive than you might think. When an offer came to “see a slab of Australia for free” by virtue of winning a free six week campervan rental, I was over the moon. Although I had never traveled extensively in a campervan before, I figured it would be a fabulous and inexpensive trip. Sadly though, those six weeks were among the most costly of all my full-time budget travel thus far.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. During my 6-week adventure, I learned a lot about how to plan an itinerary, keep the cost of an Aussie campervan holiday low, and how to budget for it next time around.

Here is a guide to planning and budgeting for your own Australian campervan adventure.

Planning Your Campervan Route and Itinerary

Before you even choose your wheels, it is best to plan what you want to see in Australia. It is a huge country, with varying climate and road conditions. Some stretches of road (for example through the Outback or across the Nullarbor desert) involve huge expanses where there is absolutely nothing — no petrol stations, no food, no services, no power, no mobile reception, and no water. Some campervan rental companies will not allow you to travel on these roads at all, and even if you are allowed, you must be well prepared.

Be wise about how long you plan your Australian road trip to be as well. Unlike Europe — where you can drive for a few hours and end up in a different country — in Australia you can drive for days between cities. It is best to allow more time than you expect you will need, so you are not under the gun to get to the finish line.

Climate in Australia

An important part of choosing your route is to understand Australia’s climate. Being in the southern hemisphere, summer is from December-February and winter is from June-August. However, although some states may have snow in winter months, winter is not necessarily cold everywhere; the temperatures in the north are warm to hot year-round, and summer in the south can still experience temperatures in excess of 50 degrees Celsius.

The ideal time to travel in Australia tends to be the spring and autumn seasons for their all-around moderate conditions. This helps you avoid Australia’s climatic extremes; summer in the north can see impassable flooded roads and fierce tropical storms, while winter in the south can be cold enough for snow to fall (which means chilly camping conditions).

Just to confuse things further, Melbourne is known for being a city of “four seasons in a day” — quite literally. So it is best to research the climate along your desired route in order to be properly prepared.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology is a great resource for researching Australia’s climate.

Choosing Your Wheels

Campervans are typically utility-sized vans that are outfitted with the basic essentials for you to be self-sufficient: beds, sinks, crockery, cooking facilities, and a fridge. Depending on the size of the vehicle, you may also find toilet and shower facilities, but these are often reserved for larger motor homes. Alternately you can choose to go with an even smaller vehicle than a campervan (such as a station wagon, minivan, pop-top, or 4x4), and supplement it with traditional camping gear.

Your choice of vehicle will be dependent on how many people there are in your party, where you want to go, your budget, and the level of comfort you require.

To Rent or To Buy?

Many campervan and other car rental companies offer an option for you to buy or purchase the vehicle. If you buy it, a buy-back guarantee often comes with the price, so you may be assured that you are not stuck with a vehicle you can’t sell at the end of your trip. The buy-back amount varies, but is often around 50% of your purchase price. More often than not, you will fetch a better price by selling privately, but the buy-back guarantee can provide peace of mind in case you are in a bad location to sell or run out of time.

The general guideline for the cost-effectiveness of renting versus buying is as follows:

• Less than eight weeks: It is almost always best to rent, no matter what vehicle you choose.
• More than eight weeks: It is more cost-effective to purchase a car, minivan, or pop-top vehicle.
• More than 16 weeks: It is more cost-effective to purchase a campervan or small motor home.

Tips for Renting a Campervan in Australia

• Book well in advance, as this form of travel is popular and vans are reserved well in advance.
• Be prepared to drive standard; most campervans have manual transmission.
• You drive on the left-hand side of the road in Australia.
• You usually have to be at least 21 years old to rent a campervan.
• Although it is common to pick up and drop off your vehicle in different locations, check with your rental company to ensure they have a drop off location at your desired final stop and confirm if there are any extra fees to do this.
• Weekends are slow in Australia; don’t expect the rental company to be open for pick ups or drop offs; call in advance to check.
• Insurance charges vary from company to company; some have mandatory charges while others do not.
• Advise the rental company regarding your desired itinerary. There are a number of roads that rental companies will not allow you to travel on, including unpaved or remote roads. At other times of year, some roads are impassable or require a special vehicle with a snorkel. The rental company should fit you with a vehicle that is appropriate for your planned route and time of year.
• Equipment and conveniences included with the campervan vary. Make sure you have everything you want. Be prepared to supplement along the way with creature comforts like extra blankets for the cold climes, or a coffee pot for your morning cup.
• There are stretches of road in Australia so remote that rusted out broken-down cars are simply abandoned at the side of the road, eerily making you wonder what happened to the owner. Make sure your vehicle is solid (especially if you buy it), so yours doesn’t become one of the rusty statistics.

Camping with a Campervan in Australia

The expense of camping surprised me. I figured that with a campervan, I had free accommodation at my fingertips. But you cannot camp inside city limits, or at the side of the road, and sometimes even rest areas are off-limits for overnight stays. So unless you do some “renegade camping” (in which you should be prepared for a knock on the window at 3 a.m. by a police officer telling you to move along — or worse yet waking up to a ticket), you will often have to pay to park your wheels for the night.

Luckily due to the widespread popularity of campervan and motorhome holidays in Australia, caravan parks are everywhere. Powered campervan sites will cost you up to $40/night, and un-powered sites can cost up to $25/night. (See below for some tips on powered versus un-powered travel).

Caravan parks and campgrounds are a fabulous way to meet other travelers. Caravan parks give you access to showers, laundry, cooking facilities (sometimes cooking in the van can be cramped), and a variety of amenities that vary from park to park. Campgrounds also vary dramatically in amenities depending on the location.

By contrast, after a few nights of saving money and “renegade camping,” I was terribly lonely. Shy of going to a café or pub (and spending money, which is counterproductive), there is no way to meet people if you camp alone. This, combined with the hassle of finding toilet facilities in the middle of the night and the stress of being asked to move or awaking to a ticket, makes renegade camping pretty unattractive, even if it is free.

The good news is that with some research and networking with fellow travelers, you can find your share of free — or inexpensive — camping spots. To find the good stuff, you often have to buy a book, but a books will pay for itself in the long run. Camps and Caravan Parks offers a series of books profiling camps and caravan parks.

Powered Versus Un-powered Campervans

Your campervan will likely have a function to provide electrical power to a fridge, lights, and some outlets so you can enjoy your creature comforts. This power source is usually recharged when you drive over 80km/hour or so for a few hours. But if you wish to stay in one place for a few days, if you are driving smaller distances or through the city, you may end up eventually losing power if you don’t plug the van into a power source.

After staying in the driveway of a new friend of mine for a few days, I lost all supplemental power in the campervan. Most of the food in the fridge spoiled, I could not run the water, and I was unable to charge my computer. Traveling after that time became an exercise in ensuring that at least every third night I paid for a powered site.

Powered sites come at a premium at caravan parks, costing an extra $2-15 per night. So when you don’t need the power or have a full battery from highway driving, you can avoid the charge by choosing an un-powered site.

The Cost of Fuel Down Under

The farther you get from the city, the more you will pay for fuel. I paid anything from $0.98/liter to over $1.50/liter in a 6-week period and current petrol prices in Australia have recently increased but can easily be found online. Of course, with your entire home on wheels, you can expect to pay considerably more for fuel than you would to drive just a car.

Expedition Australia has a terrific tool for calculating the cost of fuel for your campervan trip , including a widget that calculates your cost based on your estimated kilometers and vehicle type. The site also offers a spreadsheet download to calculate the cost of driving around the vast country.

Australia is best seen from the road, which explains the popularity of Aussie road trips among both travelers and locals. And with proper planning and budgeting, your own campervan holiday in Australia can be incredibly fulfilling without emptying your wallet.

Nora Dunn is a Professional Hobo and widely published international writer, digital nomad, and a major social media influencer on a wide range of topics of travel on the cheap since her endless travels began in 2007. Find out her current whereabouts at www.theprofessionalhobo.com .

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Backpackers Guide to Travelling Australia in a Campervan

Australia is hands-down one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and an absolute bucket list destination for any backpacker. But in recent years, we are seeing a trend of backpackers ditching their hostel rooms for van travel - and it’s not hard to see why.

While backpacking offers the perfect combination of freedom and low-cost travel, Australia’s vast landscape means it can be limiting and costly. Many of the best things to do in Australia are out of easy reach from city centres.

Renting a travel van can be a great alternative way to explore Australia and these far off places while sticking to a budget. With your own kitchen on board, you can have easy access to leftovers and full cupboards, so you don’t have to worry about wasting food moving from hostel to hostel. Travelling with your bed also means you can take advantage of free camping and low-cost campground options - keeping you close to the action without the premium. Best of all, with your own space and luggage storage with you at all times, it is by far a much more comfortable way to travel.

Why using a campervan for backpacking travel is a good idea 

While it may seem more expensive on the front end to rent a van to travel Australia, this travel style may actually save you money. Backpacking usually involves backpacker lodges, but it is not necessarily the most cost-effective option at $35-60 AUD per night for a shared room. Accommodation costs aside, there are plenty of reasons why you may want to take advantage of a campervan for your next backpacking trip:

• Make the most of your time - No waiting on the side of a road for a pickup
• Don’t have to rely on public transport - Take your own route as you explore Australia
• Vehicle and accommodation in one - No need to pay for shared hostel rooms
• Save money on food - You have your own facilities on board the campervan to cook meals
• Save money on coffee and drinks - Can make your own drinks and coffees with the on board and campsite facilities
• No need for laundramats - Can do your own laundry on the go
• You’ll be able to stay with your companions - No need for split rooms
• Travel in comfort - Warm, dry, quiet, listen to your own music, stop when you want
• Bring all your favourite belongings, and keep them safe on board - No need to leave them behind in a hostel or be caught out in the Australia weather
• Stay closer to your attractions - No need to backtrack to try to find somewhere to stay in larger towns or cities

The list of reasons could go on and on!

How much money do you need for backpacking Australia?

Although this will vary depending on your itinerary, certain considerations could affect your backpacking budget.

Campervan hire 

At Mighty, we are big believers in making adventure possible for everyone, no matter their budget. We have a variety of campers ranging in price and facilities for different needs. Our best value 2-berth Highball campers are smaller vehicles with simple cooking facilities targeted to travellers who want to spend most of their time outdoors. On the other end of the spectrum, our more inclusive 6-berth Big Six camper comes with a shower and toilet on board and provides a spacious option for families and larger groups.

When budgeting for hire costs, it's important to consider that this covers what you would spend on hostel or motel costs - but with the added bonus of having your own space. This is especially true if you're travelling in a group and sharing the cost. It may even work out cheaper by the time you crunch the numbers on transport, fuel, and accommodation. It's also good to keep in mind that prices will vary at different times of the year, especially in peak seasons, so check out if there are any seasonal deals running. That way, you can get the best value on your road trip.

Petrol 

Australia has a big landscape with plenty to explore, so it’s important to make sure you add petrol to your budget. Mighty campers each have a fuel tank size ranging between 70-75 litres, and the cost to fill them will vary depending on your location. Expect to pay more in more rural/remote towns and touristy destinations.

If you’re looking for ways to save on petrol, consider creating an itinerary and sticking to it. Driving in the wrong direction and having to backtrack is a sure way to overspend on petrol. Using apps like FuelMap to compare fuel prices around Australia and the thl Roadtrip itinerary planner to map your route are great ways to ensure you don’t get caught out.

Food and drink 

Meals in Australia tend to be around $25 for a meal per person - maybe $15 if you can find a good deal. That's over $45-$75 per day, not including any road trip snacks. Having an on board kitchen means you can take advantage of shopping in local supermarkets, having a place to store good quality affordable snacks and to cook great meals wherever you go. This can work out much cheaper and overall can be a much more enjoyable way to travel.

Not sure what to cook? There are plenty of budget-friendly campervan recipes to choose from.

Tolls and parking 

Travelling between iconic Australian attractions, you may encounter toll bridges. As these can cost between $4 - $9AUD, it's usually worth taking a detour to avoid them. The thl Roadtrip app is a great tool to help plan your route to avoid tolls where possible.

Parking is also another thing you don’t usually have to worry about as a backpacker - so it’s good to be mindful of this when planning your trip. Try parking a little further away from touristy hotspots and walking to your destination to save on parking.

Entertainment 

Travelling in a camper usually means being in more remote locations and smaller towns - so there is not always much to do in the form of entertainment. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. Take advantage of your house on wheels by:

• Picking your own music
• Create your own bar
• Unwind in camping chairs under the stars

The sky is the limit!

Save the money you may have spent on entertainment for other camper-friendly activities such as national parks, museums, activities and attractions. Here is a general idea of the price of Australian attractions you can expect to pay:

• National parks pass - 1 year for $100-200AUD depending on the state.
• Museum entry - usually free and pay for exhibitions.
• Zoo entry - around $50AUD.

Camping fees 

While travelling in a campervan, there are plenty of camping options to choose from, all while staying safe, clean, comfortable, and near the action. Some of the most popular options include:

• Holiday park powered camping sites
• National park campgrounds
• Free camping sites

Holiday parks can cost between $25 and $90 per night depending on location and time of year. Averaging around $35 per night, these are a great place to make use of the campsite facilities such as the campground kitchen and laundry - all with the added privacy of being able to sleep in your own space.

National parks, roadhouses and free camping spots are a great option for camping a little more cost-effectively. National parks are a great chance to get out in nature, and stay close to natural attractions, while roadhouses are a great option for a safe place to sleep in outback areas.

It’s good to ensure you plan a mix of powered camping sites at holiday parks/caravan parks and other unpowered lower-cost options. This will give you the chance to charge up so you can keep your fridge going and your camera batteries charged.

Where do most backpackers go in Australia? 

While city centres such as Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane are usually a big drawcard for backpackers - they can get expensive quickly. Having a van to travel gives you the opportunity to get out of these tourist hot spots and into the diverse landscape Australia has to offer, including:

Spend your trip immersed in the endless summers and lush forests of the tropical north

• Venture into the remote towns of the Red Centre
• Spend your day's beach hopping the coastline, exploring small coastal and hinterland towns
• All of these can add to an experience-rich, budget-friendly camper adventure

Where should I start backpacking in Australia?

If you want to take advantage of a campervan during your backpacking trip to Australia, it’s a good idea to begin your trip in a city centre that has a Mighty campervan branch location . Starting in a city centre also means you can pick up all your camper supplies at supermarkets before heading to remote locations. Arrival locations will depend on other factors such as:

• Your road trip route
• How long you are going for
• What season you are travelling

It’s definitely worth planning your trip around the Australian weather and seasons in each location so you aren’t stuck in floods or extreme temperatures.

Is Australia safe for backpackers? 

Australia is a very safe country to visit. It has a stable political system and low crime rates - but you should observe the same precautions you would while travelling to any new place. Travelling in a camper is much safer than hitchhiking - especially on outback roads where reception is limited and towns are far apart. Having a campervan with an air conditioner at night also means that you are safe from the elements such as extreme heat.

Head out backpacking in a van to see more remote and wild places in AU

If you’re looking for more travel inspiration and ways to budget for your trip, you can read more on our blog . But if you’re ready to rent a van to see the remote and wild places in Australia, check out all our latest deals and book your Mighty camper today .

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Travelling Australia in a Campervan

Australia is an enormous country with diverse cultural and nature activities.

Despite the vast distances involved in an Australia road trip , driving around Australia is the best way to see and experience this wonderful country so travelling Australia in a camper van is a popular option with both domestic and international tourists.

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Table of Contents

Travelling Australia in a camper van

Where to travel in australia.

Where to go depends on what you like doing and how long you have to do it!

How long do you have for your trip? How far can you drive in that time?

Try to arrive and depart from different Australian cities to avoid having to double back on yourself.

Include a mix of cities and beaches in your itinerary as well as rural and nature spots and any Australian road trip should include a detour into the iconic Australian outback.

City lovers might head to the more populated south-east, wine lovers to the south-west, beach fans to the sunny Queensland coast or those seeking an off the beaten track experience should head to Western Australia or the Northern Territory.

In 1996, I spent 13 months driving up the west coast from Perth to Darwin, down to Alice Springs (and back!) followed by a trip along the east coast to Melbourne.  

I returned over twenty years later with three children and spent six weeks completing an East Coast Australia road trip driving from Cairns to Sydney.

When to go?

A road trip during the peak school holiday season (December to early February) will mean greater competition for camper van rentals or purchases and for campsite spots. Beaches and attractions will be busier.

Off season will be cheaper and cooler.

Check the weather for the areas you wish to visit. You may choose to avoid the wet, humid season up north (November to April) or mid-winter in Tasmania.

Hire or buy a camper van in Australia?

Deciding whether to hire or buy a motor home in Australia depends on your budget, your confidence in buying a second-hand vehicle and the duration of your trip.

The pros and cons of buying a camper van in Australia

Buying a camper van in Australia can be an investment; unless the vehicle dies or sustains damage you can resell it and recoup some of your costs.

In 1996, after driving over 26, 000 kilometres I sold my beloved VW Camper van ‘Bruce’ for more money than I had paid for it.

If you are travelling as a couple, you will not have a problem finding a vehicle. There is a great demand for smaller camper vehicles.

You need to know what you are doing – if you have never bought a second-hand vehicle before, now is not the time to start!

The risk of losing all your invested money is real. Your vehicle could irrevocably break down or suffer irreparable damage.

You will only have roadside assistance if you pay for it.

Camping equipment and bedding may not be included. Plus, the vehicle may need minor repairs on route, tyres that need replacing and so on – it can be difficult to budget your overall costs.

There will be additional costs of tax and insurance.

It takes time to purchase and resell a vehicle. Visiting used car lots, scouring hostel notice boards or online selling sites will take time.

Furthermore, at the end of your trip you need to allocate enough time to sell the camper van – and make contingency plans should you run out of time.

Families or groups may find it difficult to source a camper van or motor home.

Due to my previous positive experience buying a camper van in Australia, our family of five were prepared to buy a motor home for our road trip.

But we could not find one. We realized that if we could not find an affordable camper van for five, there was not demand for it and we would also have a problem selling the camper van before we left.

The pros and cons of camper van hire in Australia.

Hiring a camper van gives you peace of mind that your vehicle is roadworthy.

There is someone to ask for help should you need it. Plus, roadside assistance is usually included in rental agreements.

You can pick up and drop off vehicles as and when you need to.

Camping equipment and bedding is usually included.

There are rental companies to suit any budget such as backpacker friendly Jucy or Spaceship to global companies such as Britz and Maui.

Hiring a camper van in Australia is expensive – even when you consider it is your accommodation as well as your transport.

In peak season demand and hire prices soar.

Some companies will not hire to drivers under the age of 21.

There may be restrictions on which type of roads you can drive on (no off roading)!

Camper van relocation deals in Australia.

If your timings and routes can be flexible, consider relocation deals to travel in a camper van around Australia.

A relocation deal is driving a camper van or motor home from one hire company location to another location within a given time frame.

On our recent East Coast road trip, we drove from Cairns to Sydney ENTIRELY on relocation deals and saved a lot of money!

Relocation deals offer some free days and some days at $5 per day. It is a budget-friendly method of travel!

You can often extend your trip by purchasing extra days for $75 per day.

By city hopping, you can complete a long road trip in sections using different relocation deals.

Camping equipment and bedding are included.

You will have the support of the vehicle rental company and roadside assistance.

Disadvantages

You have to complete your trip within a time frame so you may not be able to spend as long as you would like to in various places.

If you complete your trip in sections, you will have to pack up and unpack whenever you move to a new camper van or motor home.

Pick up and drop offs are usually in a city location so you cannot avoid visiting – or driving in – cities.

You will know the specifications of the motor home (number of beds, seat belts etc) but not the exact type of motor home. So the camper van or motor home you pick up may not be what you would have ordinarily chosen!

There may not always be a camper van or motor home available when you want one especially if you are a group or a family so you will need to be flexible on your travel dates.

For relocation deals see Imoova.com . Some hire companies such as Jucy advertise relocations on their websites.

Alternatively, contact companies directly.

Our experience of relocation camper vans

As a family of five , there was not a lot of choice of motor homes but despite this, and despite travelling in winter, we were always able to find a camper van relocation when we needed one.

We used Imoova and got one motor home direct from Britz.

We completed our trip in two sections. If you choose to do this, unpack the minimal amount of stuff!

For our Cairns to Brisbane section, we had a very cramped, hi-top camper van. It had very little space and restricted head height. The camper van ‘slept’ five but three of us were in a tiny double bed. It was more suited to a family of three rather than five!

However, from Brisbane to Sydney, we had a brand new luxurious six berth motor home!

We mostly freedom camped but also stayed in hostel car parks and showgrounds. We stayed on campsites twice.

If you are travelling with children, make sure you check the seat belt configurations; not all motor homes and camper vans are suitable to travel in with children.

Australia has strict rules  about where children can sit and who needs a car seat and you will need to check the rules for the different states you are visiting.

A further option – but one I cannot recommend as we have not used it – is to hire a privately owned camper van or motor home directly with the owner through a website such as Camplify.

The major downside of this option is having to return the vehicle to where you started from.

Touring Australia in a motor home or camper van

The type of camper van or motor home you choose for travelling around Australia depends on the number of people travelling, how many seat belts you require, how comfortably you wish to travel and what your budget is!

Choose a camper van or motor home that best suits your needs – both for comfort and safety.

Converted cars

Converted cars (such as a station wagon) are basic and compact campers for two people. You sleep in the back of the car and cook outside with the open boot your only shelter for cooking.

These vehicles are small, cramped but cost effective.

Most cars will be sold (or hired) with all the camping and cooking equipment included.

These vehicles are easy to pack up, are easy to manoeuvre in cities and do not require extra large parking bays!

Camper vans sleep 2 – 4/5 people and vary in style from a converted van, to a hi-top or a small motor home.

There will be limited space for standing or cooking inside, a table area, seats that convert into beds with additional tiny beds in the roof.

These camper vans are cramped but comfortable.

Some smaller camper vans may have their additional seating right at the back of the vehicle which is not ideal for children.

Motor homes will give groups and families much-needed space and extra comfort; cooking, washing, home schooling and general living will be easier and more comfortable!

Large motor homes can be unwieldy in towns and cities and parking is also an issue with limited parking bays for larger vehicles.

If you want to freedom camp, you will need a larger, self-contained motor home.

A self-contained camper van or motor home

A self-contained camper or motor home is one that has a toilet. It provides more freedom of where to go and where to stay and entitles you to freedom camp where it is permitted to.

Self contained camper vans will cost more money to hire or buy but on an extended trip this money will be returned to you by the ability to freedom camp.

Plus, if you are travelling Australia with kids, not having to get up multiple times during the night to go to the toilet outside is worth the extra money!

Think safety!

Don’t immediately go for the cheapest option; think about your safety first.

How many seat belts do you need and are they attached to the vehicle frame (the safest option) or the interior cladding?

Are the seats forward or rear facing or – a less safe option – sideways facing. If the seats surround a table, can the table be dismantled for driving?

Can cupboards and drawers be locked in transit to prevent items flying around in the event of a crash? Is there ample storage to pack away loose items before driving?

If you are travelling Australia with kids, look for shoulder belts – not lap belts – and points to safely attach a car seat.

Will the children sit behind the front seats (the safest option) or right at the back of a camper van?

Check you are adhering to child restraint laws for each state you are travelling through.

Motor homes and camper vans vary in safety standards around the world so think about what you need and ask the right questions.

Driving around Australia tips

If you are planning a road trip in Australia, you will need to spend time researching rules and regulations before you set off.

All drivers must carry their licence in the vehicle at all times. You will need an International Drivers Licence in English characters to hire a camper van or motor home.

Each of the eight Australian states has their own driving rules so research them before entering the state.

States have different rules about crossing state lines with fruit and vegetables or the use and purchase of alcohol.

Australia has strict car seat regulations and where children can sit in vehicles. Not all camper vans or motor homes will meet these requirements so do your research before you hire or buy!

Tips for travel around Australia in a camper van

On the road, get to know your vehicle before you set off.

Know how to use, stow and secure gas canisters, how to dump your waste properly, how to secure doors and drawers for travel and how to create your bed and so on.

Learn the stopping distances for your vehicle and how high and wide it is!

Use your camper van!

Camp in isolated rural spots, drive to lesser-visited towns and hamlets, avoid backpacker hot spots!

Off-roading

Do not go off-roading unless your vehicle can handle it. Off road in Australia can mean miles and miles of dusty, rocky roads usually with bone shaking washboard ruts.

Driving at night

Avoid driving at night. It is tempting to spend your day sightseeing covering the miles at night but, not only will you miss the Australian landscape you have come to see, there is a real danger of hitting wildlife at night. There is a reason the massive road trains have enormous bull bars on the front!

Road trains

Be aware of these Goliath vehicles. They are longer than you think when you overtake them or they overtake you. They cannot slow down or stop quickly.

If in doubt, get out of their way.

Plan your journey

Plan your route. Use Google maps for offline use and the Motormouth app for finding cheap petrol along your route. Of if you are a map lover like me, get a good old fashioned paper map!

Carry enough food, water and fuel at all times. Use dumping stations when you see them – you may not see another one for a while!

Know what to do and who to call in the event of a crash or breakdown.

Keep essentials accessible

A hands free head torch is an essential item for travelling Australia in a campervan! We always travel with our fantastic Petzl head torch.

Keep the torch in an accessible place such as in the drivers door pocket. You don’t want to turn out every drawer looking for your torch in the dark.

Travel Safely

Don’t drive tired or under the influence of drink or drugs.

Avoid leaving valuables unattended or on display when you leave your vehicle.

Try to camp with other camper vans or motor homes. The downside is you are not alone, the upside is there is safety in numbers.

A self contained camper van means you do not have to go out at night alone to use a toilet. Or do multiple trips with children!

Tips for camping in Australia

Freedom camping.

Freedom camping is one of the great benefits of travelling Australia in a camper van.

Freedom camping sites require no payment and operate on the goodwill of the local authorities. Access will only continue as long as travellers respect the rules – so please consider those following you!

Only freedom camp in designated freedom camping spots; if a sign says no overnight camping allowed, don’t do it. You will be moved on or fined if you are caught.

Some sites may have a public toilet on site, others will only allow self-contained camper vans to stay.

Freedom camping sites run on an unreserved, ‘first come first served’ basis so arrive early if you can, especially in peak season. It will be frowned upon by your fellow campers if you squeeze into a site breaking the quota.

Sites have a one or two-night maximum stay.

Follow the unspoken freedom camping rules – remove all litter, no excessive noise and observe all signs regarding open fires or barbecues.

The brilliant Campermate app shows you all the free and cheap campsites throughout Australia. Don’t set off without it!!!!!

Camping in Showgrounds

Some Australian towns permit camper vans and motor homes to stay on their showground sites thereby generating money for the local community between show dates.

These sites are concrete or grass pitches with strict rules about litter and noise. Most showgrounds have toilets or washrooms available to use.

The sites usually have a warden and lockable gates so you may need to arrive before a given time to get in.

Locate showground sites via the Campermate app; fees vary between $5-$20.

Camping at hostels

A great option for an overnight stay is to park your camper van in the parking area of a youth hostel and use the hostel facilities at a fraction of the usual price.

Some hostels advertise this option on their websites or use the Campermate app.

Sometimes you just need a bit of space, a comfy sofa, tv and a hot shower!

Australian campsites vary from rural grassy family run locations to mammoth urban sites. Campgrounds provide washrooms, laundry facilities and sometimes a restaurant or bar.

Costs vary according to the facilities on offer and the season.

Wherever you camp, be aware of any signs regarding dangerous wildlife, particularly crocodiles. The signs are there for a reason.

Avoid camping near a river.

Bring all food scraps and litter inside at night to avoid attracting scavengers.

Do not leave your boots or shoes outside and if you forget, shake them before putting them on. Creepy crawlies won’t be put off by the smell of your shoes!

Always shake clothing and washing before bringing it inside the vehicle.

Open a window or vent when cooking inside a motor home.

Use roadside or beach barbecue spots when possible; easy to cook on and less cleaning up!

Never cook on a disposable barbecue inside a vehicle or bring it inside after cooking on it. They emit carbon monoxide fumes.

Shop regularly for groceries in small batches. This is annoying during your holiday but there is limited storage space inside a camper van or motor home.

Learn to give everything a home and keep everything in its place. A small camper van rapidly gets messy and you will spend a frustrating amount of time searching for items.

Live with minimal items

Remove a limited number of clothes and belongings from your large luggage and then stow the large bags out of the way. Soft bags are easier to store than hard suitcases. We found our Cabin Max soft sided backpacks  were the ideal bags to use for our campervan adventure.

This is where packing cubes can come in really useful. Pack a cube with the essentials you will need for your campervan trip and keep this smaller bag inside the van. Plus, if you get different colour packing cubes  it is easy to distinguish each persons belongings.

We loved every minute of our road trip in Australia in a camper van. We explored cities, small towns in the outback, forests, lakes and beaches and met interesting people from all walks of life from all over the world.

We would not hesitate to complete another Australia road trip!

Have you travelled Australia in a camper van or motor home? What are your tips?

Recommended reading for travelling Australia in a campervan

Lonely Planet Australia 2021

38 Amazing Australian Road Trips

Outback Australia Road Trips

Australia road map

East Coast Australia Road Trip

Manchester United Tour

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Will MacLurcan

I really think that travelling along the places in Australia using a campervan is a great idea. And upon reading your reading article convinced me more that it’ll really be a fun experience. Thank you

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The ultimate backpacker’s guide to buying a campervan in australia.

Thinking of Buying a Campervan, Car or Motorhome in Australia? Here’s everything you need to know.

One if the best ways to have the ultimate Aussie adventure is with the freedom of your own four wheels. If you are planning to travel in Australia for a while then buying a campervan or motorhome can be a really great and cost effective way of getting around Australia.

Buying a campervan was the best decision we made in our time in Australia, so I wanted to put together a guide to help you if you’re also thinking of doing the same.

Why a campervan is the best way to travel around Australia

Australia is one huge country, most people don’t realise just how huge it is until they arrive. It’s also an expensive country to visit and with such huge distances you need to plan how you are going to get around this huge country to make the most of your time and money.

While internal flights will get you from A to B the quickest, they are costly and mean you miss out on seeing a lot of this amazing country.   Organised tours are also an expensive option and the backpacker favourite, the Greyhound bus , trundles up and down the major East Coast cities but offers little chance to explore off the beaten track.

For the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore Australia how about driving. Exploring in a campervan is a really popular way to explore Oz. Nothing beats the thrill of the open road and Australia sometimes feels like it was just made for road trips!

From the epic East Coast Australia road trip route , to driving the stunning Great Ocean Road , and exploring the incredible Outback or just getting off the beaten track, having the flexibility to go wherever you want whilst saving money on transport, accommodation and eating out. A campervan is the ultimate way to explore Australia!

So should you rent, relocate or buy a campervan in Australia?

Renting a campervan in australia.

The time you are spending in Australia (and the money you have) will determine whether you will be better off renting or buying a campervan.

If you are only visiting Australia for a couple of weeks then renting is obviously the easiest choice and requires little upfront costs and organisation. Drive Now.com.au is the best place to compare rental prices and options from all the major companies and make sure you’re getting the best deal.

But renting a campervan could cost at least AUD$50 per day, if you are going to be in Australia for more than a 6 weeks then, considering the cost of renting over that duration, it’s probably worth buying your own.

If you have come to Australia for year long working holiday then I would definitely recommend buying a campervan in Australia. Although you will need some cash for the upfront cost of buying a van, a bonus of owning a camper van is that you can park up at free campsites, cook up some food and sleep under the stars or in the van and this will save you a lot of money in the long run.

A campervan is your accommodation and transport in one, allowing you to save considerable money on hostels, bus tickets and eating out and also giving you the ultimate freedom to explore.

Plus, if you can sell your camper at the end of your trip for the price you bought it for then you’ve had free transport and accommodation for the duration of your trip, only paying out for fuel (and maybe factor in some repairs too if it’s an older vehicle!)

In my opinion buying a campervan is the best, and most affordable, way to experience Australia.

Did you know, there is another option. If you are flexible you could  relocate a vehicle for free or $1 a day . Companies need their vehicles in another location and offer you free or very discounted hire if you relocate their vehicle to a specific destination.

There is a  time limit  on these deals so this may not be the option if you want to take your time seeing the sights, but I whizzed down from Cairns to Sydney in a week and only spent $7 on the campervan hire and got a free tank of fuel thrown in.

How to Buy a Campervan in Australia

So now I’ve convinced you that  owning a camper in Australia is awesome , here is how to go about buying a campervan in Australia.

Thinking about buying and owning a car or campervan in Australia can seem confusing and costly at first. But for me, exploring Oz in my own campervan was a highlight of my year in Australia and a worthy investment that enabled me to see a whole lot more of the great big land down under.

What to Buy?

Think about what sort of trip you want to undertake and what sort of vehicle would be most suitable for what you want to do. You could buy a car for anything from $1000 or a basic campervan from about $4000 upwards depending on age and amenities.

Buying a car is the cheapest option, will be the easiest to drive and the most economical on fuel. A car won’t offer you much space to sleep but backpackers on a budget have been known to travel around Australia sleeping on the backseat of a hatchback or in tents.

Station Wagon

A station wagon (you would call it an estate car in the UK) is a cheap option that would allow just enough space to  put a mattress down in the back to sleep on  but if you are on a long trip and expect to be living out of the vehicle then it may get a bit claustrophobic.

Utes (similar to pick ups) are hugely popular in Australia and are usually 4WD and consist of a 2 or 3 man cab and a large tray. Many ute owners customise the tray into a covered sleeping area giving you room to spread out and sleep. The 4WD capability to also a bonus that allows you to really explore off the sealed roads.

4 Wheel Drive

If you’ve got your sights set on an epic Outback trip or just want to explore more off the beaten track then you might want to consider buying a 4X4.

A 4WD vehicle however, isn’t as cheap as a regular car and lacks the space of a campervan, but buying a 4WD vehicle and a camper trailer, or even just a swag or a tent, might suit you if you want to explore the outback wilderness.

I didn’t realise at first  how limiting it was to be stuck to sealed roads.  Looking back I probably would have spent a bit more to get a 4WD vehicle to have the ultimate freedom to go anywhere and not worry about getting stuck.

Buying a car or 4×4 and caravan could be the perfect solution if you want plenty of living space and facilities but also want to freedom to be able to unhitch the caravan and take the car off independently for more adventures.

Campervan or Motorhome

Campervans and  motorhomes can come in all shapes and sizes from a basic van with a mattress in the back to a flash motor home complete with shower, toilet, fitted kitchen, TV and all mod cons.

There is a huge difference in cost so your budget will probably determine the size, level of comfort and facilities that your campervan will have but buying a campervan is the best  all round option for touring Oz.

Meet our campervan Gloria!

We choose a 1990 Ford Ecovan that had been converted into a basic campervan called Gloria! She had a proper mattress and storage in the back and for $4,000 came complete with all the camping gear we needed and 9 months REGO.

She was white at first but later ended up with a funky zebra print paint job. Something I would only recommend doing when actually buying a campervan as I assume your rental company would frown on these kind of ‘improvements!’

Where to Buy a Campervan in Australia

So you’ve just arrived in Australia, eager to start your road trip adventures and your looking for your own set of wheels. Where do you start?

Backpackers Car Markets

For the greatest choice in one place when buying a campervan in Australia head to the huge  travellers car market in Sydney’ s Kings Cross where hundreds of cars are bought and sold by backpackers.

There are plenty to look at and if the owner needs to leave the country in a rush you could get a great deal and many vans come complete with all equipment and camping gear you could ever need.

Beware that many backpacker vans have covered huge distances and not been looked after very well so the mechanical soundness of some of these vehicles may be questionable.

Private Sale

Buying privately is probably your cheapest option when buying a campervan in Australia. You can find private sales and even post a wanted notice for free on sites like  Gumtree , local newspapers or hostel notice boards.

I bought my campervan from Gumtree and there’s often many vehicles listed but it requires a bit more leg work than going to a dealership or car market. You will usually get a better deal by negotiating a private sale but if you don’t know what your looking for there’s no come back and there is always the risk that you could end up with a dodgy wreck.

If you can’t tell if a car is in sound mechanical condition or not you should get a mechanic to inspect it for you but this will cost extra.

Buying a campervan from a dealership is probably the easiest option but not the cheapest. A reputable dealership will sell you a car that has been serviced and is in good shape, complete with warranty. Buying from a professional dealership offers you more reassurance that your vehicle will be more reliable.

Car dealers sometimes offer a buy back guarantee for when you’re ready to sell which takes the stress out of selling when your trip is over but the price is usually far less than you paid in the first place and the campervans are more expensive to purchase in the first place too.

What to look for when buying a campervan in Australia

Of course, if you are buying a older,  second hand vehicle you run the risk of it not being as mechanically sound  as you would like, possibly leading to costly repairs.

When buying a campervan it’s a good idea to make reliability and safety your priority, buy the best vehicle you can afford and do as many checks as you can before buying.

The lower the mileage the better, take the car for a test drive, ask the owner lots of questions, ask to see any service records and check for oil leaks, black exhaust fumes or any strange engine sounds, knocks or creeks.

I’m no mechanic so check out this useful  guide to buying a campervan for your Aussie road trip !

Buying a campervan or second hand car is always a bit of a gamble.  If in doubt about the mechanical integrity of a van its best to  hire the services of a qualified mechanic  for safety and peace of mind.

Also make sure that the vehicle you are buying has the necessary paperwork needed, check the registration certificate and the road worthy certificate if applicable. Also make sure no finance or unpaid fines are owing on the car.

Paperwork, Rules and Legislation when Buying a Campervan in Australia

It can take a bit of time getting your head around the different legal requirements and paperwork associated with buying a campervan and owning a vehicle in a foreign country.

It doesn’t make it any easier as different states in Australia have slightly different rules covering the legal aspects of car ownership. This can be confusing at first so it’s always best to check with the relevant state for the most up to date information.

It’s also a good idea to make your familiar with the  rules of the road  which can vary by state and often come with   hefty fines.

Driving License

Most of the time you will be able to drive on your driving license from your home country but if your driving license is not in English then it’s best to   obtain an international driving license  before you leave.

Registration (Rego)

It is a legal requirement that all vehicles driven on Australian roads  MUST be registered  and a hefty fine can be issued if you caught driving an unregistered vehicle.   The cost varies depending on the type of vehicle and the state in which it is registered.

The Rego needs to be renewed every 3, 6 or 12 months. It is well worth buying a campervan with a long rego because this can be pricey ($100’s a year)

In Australia all cars must be covered by  compulsory third party (CTP) insurance,   the certificate is commonly referred to as the “green slip”.

CTP insurance provides cover if a driver is involved in an accident in which people are killed or injured. The compulsory third party insurance is usually part of the vehicle registration process but, again, the registration process and specifics differ from state to state.

The good news is that the  REGO also covers the tax and third party insurance . So unlike in the UK where you need to pay road tax and then insurance for each driver, in Australia it is  the vehicle that is insured   rather than each individual driver  so anyone can drive it without paying extra insurance premiums.

Transferring Ownership

Make sure that when you buy the vehicle they hand over the paperwork as both the buyer and the seller need to sign the registration form. Once the vehicle has be purchased  the registration must be transferred into your name within 14 days  (except in Tasmania and Western Australia, where the limit is 7 days).

Keep in mind that most of the time you will need to have an address and sometimes be physically in the state where the vehicle is registered to change over the ownership but don’t worry you can use a hostel or even a campsite for the address.

It’s not really worth considering changing the state of the registration of the vehicle as it can be costly and expensive. We traveled from Melbourne, via the  Great Ocean Road , to South Australia to register our campervan at the offices there and used a campsite as our ‘address’.

Luckily when it came to renewing the rego we did that easily online without having to be physically in South Australia. The new owner must also pay stamp duty, which is calculated on the value of the purchase of the car and a registration transfer fee. You can find more  information about transferring vehicle registration ownership here.

Do you need a RWC (Certificate of Road Worthiness)?

Roadworthiness or roadworthy checks, like as the British MOT, are not required on a regular basis in Australia. However, the specific rules vary in each state.

Some states require a vehicle to have a RWC, or safety certificate, usually only when a car is being sold, or registered in that state for the first time or after being written-off and repaired but some states require one annually.

It’s a good idea to check the requirements, see  a useful breakdown by state for when a RWC is required here  because if you buy a car with a RWC, and the state it is registered in requires it, it could be very costly to get this done.

Vehicles registered in Victoria, ACT, Tasmania, New South Wales and Queensland do currently require an RWC. But vehicles registered in South Australia, the Northern Territory and Western Australia don’t need RWCs which could save you money.

Obviously you have to assess the safety risk of the individual vehicle for yourself, but before you buy check the up to date requirements and rules for each state before parting with your cash.

When we were looking to buy our campervan in Melbourne most of the vehicles advertised for sale did not have a RWC, meaning that, as the purchaser, we would be liable to get this done within 14 days in order to transfer the vehicle and registration into our name.

Knowing that we could be liable for hundreds or even thousands of dollars to get the RWC done we decided this was just too much of a risk and therefore we bought a vehicle that was registered in a state, like South Australia, that didn’t require a RWC.

Costs for REGO also differ from state to state and some states allow online renewal of REGO, very useful if you are travelling all around the country, and some don’t. Vehicles registered in  Western Australia are popular with backpackers   because they don’t require a REGO, and are easier and cheaper to re-register.  Registration can be done online or over the phone without the need to even visit the state.

Selling your campervan

Allow enough time to sell the vehicle before your visa expires or your flight home to get the best price. It will be  easier and quicker to sell the vehicle in the state in which it is registered  and in a major city, especially  a popular point of entry for backpackers  like Sydney, Melbourne or Perth.

Think about the season as well,  if it’s the middle of winter most backpackers will be up in Cairns or Darwin and not so many people in chilly Melbourne will be interested in buying a campervan there.

Make sure all the legalities and paperwork are present and correct. Your vehicle will also be easier to sell if it has a  good amount of REGO left  on it to make life easier for the buyers.

Make the car look presentable, give it a good wash and take some photos and create an informative and appealing flyer to put up in the hostel or advertise online on  Gumtree .

If you’re running out of time then a backpackers car market may be a good bet to sell up if you need to sell and leave quickly.

So that’s everything you need to know about buying a campervan in Australia! I hope my blog has helped you and that you have an awesome Aussie adventure – a campervan is really the best way to do it!

Read More Australia blogs:

• Buying a Campervan in Australia: Is it worth it?
• Campervan Relocation Deals: How to rent a campervan in Australia for only $1!
• The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide to traveling Australia on a Budget
• Tips for an Epic Australian Road Trip 
• The Backpacker’s guide to a working holiday in Australia
• How I saved $15,000 on my working holiday in Australia

Want to work and travel in Australia?

Subscribe and get a FREE Complete Guide to a Working Holiday in Australia

Top 10 Tips for a Working Holiday in Australia

How to see uluru on a budget.

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I like your tip to check over everything you can before buying a campervan. Like you said, second-hand cars can be a gamble, but doing a thorough examination can give you the advantage. Taking the car for a test drive, examining the engine, and looking for wear are good things to do before deciding on a caravan. Thanks for the article!

Thanks for the tips Hazel and glad you liked the article 🙂

Great explanation. It’s making me excited to give this campervan adventure a whirl. Now I just need to find a companion for those long open roads…

Glad you liked the post, exploring Australia by campervan is amazing and I’m sure you could find a travel companion along the way – there are many backpackers hostels where its easy to meet other travellers. Have a great trip! 🙂

Great article. One thing not mentioned is that if you are purchasing a 2nd hand vehicle then it’s useful to get a REVS Check or PPSR Check to ensure that the vehicle you purchase doesn’t currently have any money owing against it, or hasn’t been previously written off or repaired or stolen. It’s worth spending the money for the peace of mind it offers.

Thanks Joe, this is a useful tip

Thanks for sharing this informative article. This article helped me in buying a campervan for my family trip to the USA. I searched for many sites to get knowledge about campervan hiring and I found this article very informative. Its worth spending money on buying Campervan for the trip as it is comfortable and safe as well.

Thanks Shayra, glad it helped! Traveling the USA in a camper must be amazing!

I learn so much from you as well! Thank you so much for sharing your helpful information. Keep it up.

Nice idea to buy it for traveling around !

[…] you plan on traveling Australia for longer (perhaps on a working holiday visa) then buying a campervan offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility and can be a really cost effective way to explore Oz […]

[…] on how long you will be in Oz you can rent, relocate or buy a campervan. Renting would cost at least $50 a day with gas being around $1.50 a litre, more in the […]

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Nomads Around Australia

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CAMPING AUSTRALIA IN A CAMPERVAN

A nomadic lifestyle, table of contents.

• I. What is a Camper Van?
• II. Types of Camper Vans
• III. Useful Campervan Accesories (Checklist)
• IV. Advantages of Travel in a Camper Van vs Tent, Bus or Caravanning
• V. Cons of Travel in a Camper Van
• VI. Where to Camp
• VII. What is the Best Time of Year to Camp in Australia?
• VIII. How to Find a camping Spot?
• IX. Essentials for Camping in a camper van (Checklist)
• X. How Much Do Camp Sites Cost in Australia?
• XI. Free Camping in Australia
• XII. Important Staff
• XIII. Two Great Spots for Free Camping in NSW

"We’ve put together this epic guide to help you understand everything you need to know about camping in Australia in a van."

What is a camper van, "just buy a van just buy it, live in it, chuck a bed in it you can take each day as it comes. time literally has stopped for me.", john - vanlifer​, types of camper vans, fixed roof vans, high roof vans, poptop campervans (outside of australia they are also know as rising roof campervan), classic camper vans, demountable camper, don't miss out, join the van life community.

GATHERINGS, VAN TOURS, BEST VAN LIFE GEAR…

FOR NOMADS, BUSLIFERS, TRUCKLIFERS AND ALL OF YOU HAVING A NOMADIC LIFE

USEFUL CAMPERVAN ACCESORIES (CHECKLIST)

• 12v LED lights
• Fresh drinking water tanks
• Spare tyre, jack and tools
• Cooking facilities like a gas stove
• An emergency kit (that includes a couple of coldies!!!)

ADVANTAGES OF TRAVEL IN A CAMPER VAN VS TENT, BUS OR CARAVANNING

• Easy to setup when camping – This is true for both setting up a caravan or tent!
• Cheaper fuel costs than a caravan or bus
• Get to free camping sites – To get to some free camps you might have to travel off the beaten track! Unless you have a 4×4 caravan or bus, this can sometimes be tricky. Although the same can be said for a van, you can generally get to more places in a van than a bus!
• Easy to park around towns or shopping centres

CONS OF TRAVEL IN A CAMPER VAN

• Small space – A fully converted campervan is small and compact. This means living in a small space, which may take a bit of getting used to. Being tidy, packing your things away, and only having absolute essentials onboard makes things easier – especially if you’re two on the road!
• Rainy and cold weather – This follows on from the previous point, but imagine being couped up in rainy and cold weather in your campervan for three days straight!! Well, in Australia, it can and often does rain for days on end!
• If the camper is not a 4wd sometimes it’s hard to get to certain places – Although a van might give you more flexibility than a bus, if it’s not a 4WD, then you could still be limited in getting to some places…

WHERE TO CAMP

Paid campgrounds, private campgrounds, showgrounds, national parks, rv friendly towns, stealth camping.

• Have a van that doesn’t look too obvious
• Don’t sit and/or cook in the same place as you park
• Get great curtains that don’t let light escape from the inside
• Don’t park in the busy streets
• Don’t park places that have “No camping” or “No overnight parking” signs

NOMADS, BUSLIFERS, TRUCKLIFERS AND ALL OF YOU HAVING A NOMADIC LIFE

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO CAMP IN AUSTRALIA?

• Wet Season – November to April
• Dry Season – May to October
• Summer – December to February
• Autumn – March to May
• Winter – June to August
• Spring – September to Novemberx

HOW TO FIND A CAMPING SPOT?

National park campgrounds.

• New South Wales (NSW)
• Victoria (VIC)
• Queensland (QLD)
• Western Australia (WA)
• Northern Territory (NT)
• Australia Capital Territory (ACT)
• South Australia (SA)
• Tasmania (TAS)

App or website

Probably the easiest way to find a camp spot, whether it be free camping, an RV friendly town, a caravan park, or national park, is to use an app or website. There are a number of different apps out there, but you could start with  Full Range Camping.  The free version provides search options. There is also a paid version that provides offline access, a travel diary and discounts to useful products. 

You can download the free FullRangeCamping app for  iPhone here , and for  Android here .

ESSENTIALS FOR CAMPING IN A CAMPER VAN (CHECKLIST)

• Insect repellant / Mossie spray
• Hand soap – to wash your hands at rest stops
• Roadside Assistance (go with Premium)
• Mobile internet

HOW MUCH DO CAMP SITES COST IN AUSTRALIA?

National parks, private campgrounds, caravan parks / holiday parks, showgrounds, bowling clubs and pubs, free camping in australia, rv friendly towns, stealth camping.

• Looking for signs that say “No overnight camping” or similar, and DO NOT stay in that area!
• Keeping noise to a minimum
• Don’t stealth park in front of someone’s house
• Don’t be obvious when parking. For example, don’t set up the table and chairs and crank up the BBQ!

IMPORTANT STUFF

Showers and toilets in australia, bbq’s, barbeques, barbecues, compulsory third party (ctp) insurance, third party insurance, roadside assistance, two great spots for free camping in nsw, free camping bulahdelah, free camping bulahdelah details.

• Town: 100 metre walk
• Maximum stay: 72 hours
• Toilets: 100 metre walk over bridge
• Showers: No (but you can pay at the campgrounds or go to the local swimming pool)
• Telephone reception: Yes
• Other: Dump point about 1km away in the showground

Free Camping Bingara

Free camping bingara details.

• Town: 3km walk (unless you cross the river and then it’s about 2km)
• Maximum stay: 7 days
• Water: No (but you can access water in town for a small price)
• Toilets: No
• Showers: No
• Other: Dump point about 3km away in the showground

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are heaps of free places to camp in Australia. They are designated areas and normally have a maximum time limit to stay. Free camping in Australia can be found in RV Friendly Towns, rest stops by the highway and free camping spots all over the country. There are a few apps that you can use to find free camping in Australia like the  WikiCamps Australia app .

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Van vs 4wd – which vehicle is best for exploring australia.

Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

• Author Profile

Learn about We Are Explorers' Editorial Standards

Jess is a Content Editor at We Are Explorers. Her bucket list is long and her weekends are full. She’s an ultralight adventurer but will always sacrifice a few grams to bring a book. Endlessly curious, Jess loves nothing more than discovering new places (real & fictional!), and pushing her limits to the max.

• Editor Profile

Planning a road trip of Australia? Or looking for a new weekend adventure-mobile? First thing you’ve gotta decide is what vehicle to get. Van or 4WD? Jon’s mad about his van and Conor can’t live without his Troopy. So which vehicle is better when it comes to exploring Australia?

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Come and join the vanlife – jon harris.

I’m a self-confessed van fan. My van love affair began when I needed to purchase a vehicle for my then startup photography business.

I definitely had work-based criteria which the van ticked, but I’ll admit, the decision was heavily influenced by a recent relocation to the coast. Surfboards, and mountain bikes needed to fit, and the idea of road trippin’ with a one-stop-shop was mighty appealing.

I settled on a 2004 T5 Transporter. I love that it has sliding doors on both sides – great for access and layout flexibility, especially as a camper.

I designed and installed a platform and storage system which, while reasonably basic, is perfectly designed for my needs (I knew that engineering degree had to come in handy for something…).

Here’s what I’ve come to love about my van after some extended missions up north, around Tassie, and countless cheeky overnighters.

1. Vans Have Space and Layout Options

A van physically has more space inside than a 4WD, period. How you use that space is up to you (or potentially the crafty van-lifer who kitted out the rig you purchased second hand). 

There’s an infinite number of ways to approach a van fit-out – there’s so much more flexibility in this regard compared to what a traditional 4WD offers. A well-designed van interior can be basic or luxurious. It can be flexible and modular or designed to suit a single purpose extremely well.

@jonharris_photography

You can keep as much headroom as possible, or build in a heap of storage and other functionality, like a camp kitchen and fridge. You can spend a bomb, or you can do a budget DIY job. Point is, your list of options is longer than my – well, it’s long. 

All this space leads me to my next point…

2. Vans Allow For Creature Comforts

Tonnes of space leads to a more comfortable camping experience. No more folding the seats down to cram and squeeze into unnatural positions for a kip. 

Once again, you can run your comfort in one of two ways.

Fancy a simple, minimalist fit-out that allows you to stretch out fully? Done.

Or do you like to camp, but also enjoy your creature comforts? Just design in a few more amenities in the space available so you can enjoy your gourmet camp cuisine. The flexibility of the space allows you to tailor a van to your preferences.

For me, comfort equals the ability to camp (or road trip) for longer. Actually begin to enjoy pulling in at your next stop, instead of stopping for another coffee because you slept like crap the night before.

Don’t forget the essentials: 10 Things I Wish I Had In My Van

3. Vans Have Minimal Setup

Now obviously there’s a caveat to this one, as there are some pretty elaborate van setups out there that require a fair bit of setup once you arrive at camp. 

But my van camping approach is pretty minimal. Like, pull-up-at-your-site-and-that’s-it minimal. I’m too keen to get out and explore, or go for a surf! No faffing around with camper trailers, caravans, tents or rooftop campers for me.

If you pull in somewhere late, you literally don’t even need to get out. Park, crawl through to the back under the doona and turn the lights out. Cheerin’!

4. Vans Are Built to Last

I’m talking about vans in the same class as my VW Transporter, which is a commercial-grade vehicle – not just any old people mover with the seats ripped out. These vans are designed to run for ages and clock up some serious kilometres on the speedo. My van is fast approaching 500,000km and still going strong.

It’s definitely nice to know that once you get your rig all kitted out, it’ll last you through years of adventuring.

5. Vans Offer Insulation and Privacy

Sure, a good DIYer can have a go at making some covers to block all the windows in a 4WD for a bit of privacy. But nothing beats a van for the ability to insulate against temperature and noise, along with privacy. 

I’ve seen some epic van fit-outs which include full insulation in the floors, walls and ceiling, which is then lined with timber boards for a wicked finish. 

6. Vans Have Better Fuel Economy and Running Costs

Fuel economy in a van is generally better than a 4WD. 4WDs are really a specialist vehicle – powerful engines designed for tough off-roading, dirty big grippy tyres – all awesome traits, but also very thirsty traits. 

Keep in mind that if you opt for a 4WD or AWD van model, then your fuel economy will reduce too!

As a general rule, you’ll also find that a van is lighter on the bank account when it comes to running costs. Due to the specialist nature of 4WDs, they naturally can cost more to service and maintain (e.g. the price of tyres), keep fuelled up and insure. 

Of course, there are exceptions to every rule and this point will be highly dependant on the make, model and age of whichever vehicle you’re considering.  

Read More:  How To Prepare Your Car For A Summer Road Trip

Yeah, Nah, 4WDs Are Better – Conor Moore

At the start of 2018 my girlfriend Kate and I decided to take time off work to travel around Australia. One of the major decisions we needed to make was what our weapon of choice was going to be – a van or 4WD?

We’re avid outdoors people and needed a vehicle that could support us off-grid for extended periods while being reliable and able to get us to the places we wanted to explore. It wasn’t until three months before we were due to leave that I stumbled across our dream car on Gumtree.

@conormoorephotography

It was a 2006 Toyota Landcruiser HZJ78 Troop Carrier. It’d been converted into a camper by KEA, with a pop-top, fridge, cupboards, and tables all installed. Before our trip, we added some homely features like new curtains and cushion covers, along with safety features like a UHF radio, light bar, reversing camera and beefed-up suspension. Other features like dual long-range fuel tanks, built-in water tank, and an Engel fridge are what makes the ‘Super Trooper’ our perfect go-anywhere, home on wheels.  

I think 4WDs and Australia go together like beers and a BBQ. Here’s why:

1. 4WDs Can Access (Almost) Anywhere

This is the holy grail. The key reason we decided to go with a 4WD. Australia is an enormous country with its population and infrastructure heavily concentrated on the coasts and in major cities.

In the ‘bush’ however is where the real adventures are to be had, and the best of the best are only accessible with a 4WD.

Being so huge, the Australian environment changes dramatically and a versatile vehicle is necessary to cope. Up north, you’ll encounter the muddy and dusty Old Telegraph Track , through the middle there’s the barren and sandy Simpson Desert , and even on the coast there are places like Fraser Island to be explored. Then down south the slippery ice and snow through the Victorian High Country is its own wonderland.

For us, the ability to access the ‘middle of nowhere’, where there’s no one in sight and the Milky Way glistens overhead, is why we needed a 4WD.

The landscapes, wildlife and people in the country – though sometimes few and far between – are an easy trade-off for the comforts of a van. 

2. 4WDriving

Half the fun of travelling in a 4WD is getting to where you’re going! I love being able to jump out, deflate the tyres, lock the hubs, and engage 4WD mode, knowing that we’re in for one hell of a bumpy ride.

4WDrivers will know what I’m talking about, but for those who are yet to be initiated, bouncing along a sandy beach or slipping and sliding up a muddy hill is simultaneously exhilarating, frustrating and scary… but I love it!

What’s the old saying? Life’s not about the destination but about the journey? Well, I think that’s just as relevant to travelling as it is to life.

Read more: How To 4WD For Beginners

3. 4WDs Are Built Tough

4WDs are made to be durable. My Troopy has front and rear solid axle suspension and leaf springs – designed to maintain clearance on rough tracks and carry heavy loads. Compare this to independent suspension and coil springs that are designed for a smooth ride, there’s no competition for which is the strongest out of 4WDs and vans. 

The 1HZ engine that’s in my Troopy is famous for its longevity – I can expect it to reach one million kilometres if I look after it right. On the Troop Carriers of Australia Facebook page some people boast up to 1.5 million kilometres.

4. 4WDs Are Safer in Remote Areas

Kangaroos are cute, but they have a knack for hanging out next to highways and jumping right out in front of you when you’re travelling at 100 clicks and hour. Safety features like bullbars and the engine space between you and the roo can be lifesavers.

Keeping clear of 4WD tracks in your van doesn’t guarantee that you’ll never get bogged either – unexpected rain on dirt, or particularly clay, can turn tracks to mush. 4WD features might save you from sitting on the side of the road waiting for someone to come by and save you, and in places like in Western Australia this could be weeks!

Read more:  The Outback Way Road Trip Survival Guide

5. 4WDs Can Tow Stuff

If you’re looking to travel with a caravan or tow a trailer, you’re gonna need some extra grunt. Every car can have a tow ball fitted to it, but the difference will be when you pull up to a stop sign on a steep hill with your load behind you.

@conomoorephotography

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve met a Canadian couple who tow a trailer with vegetable oil behind their van to save money.  But they were very limited to where they could go – not even car parks! On the flip side, there are heaps of 4WD trailers and caravans available that can be taken to the most remote part of the country with a skilled driver. 

So, should I get a 4WD or a van?

At the end of the day, choosing between a 4WD and a van to travel Australia really comes down to what you consider important and what you’ve got planned for your adventures.

If comfort, ease of use and being able to chuck surfboards in the back is high on your priority list, a van might be for you.

If you’re keen on getting off the beaten/sealed track, don’t mind a little bit of bounce in your wheels, and looking for something that goes and goes and goes, a 4WD is probably your best bet.

Check out our Road Trip Survival Guide  to nut out your priorities so you can make the best decision for your trip. Seeya on the road!

Feature photo by @mitch.cox

Why not both? Doesn’t matter what the question is, the answer is delica.

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When your adventure ends, simply return the van to one of our partner locations in the city of your choice, with ease.

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Spice up your trip with unforgettable activities. Book in advance to be sure not to miss anything.

Kayak with dolphins Snorkeling with turtles Whale watching safari

Fraser Island

3 days 2 nights 4×4 adventure 2 days 1 night 4×4 adventure

Whitsundays

Cruise and flight package Sailboat cruise 2 days/1 night Speedboat Cruise 1 day

Diving and Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef Skydiving Cape Tribulation Tower

Skydiving Everglades Kayak Tour Fraser Island Tour 3 days 2 nights

Cape Tribulation

Snorkeling on the coral reef Horseback riding

They trusted us

Thanks to Mickael for organising the ideal road trip for us, I recommend using Vanz!

Super responsive, attentive and very professional, thank you for organising this unforgettable road trip!

We have been dreaming of a family road trip for years, thanks to Mickael for his kindness and flexibility, everything was perfect!

A big thank you to Vanz for making suggestions adapted to our timing as well as our budget, we had a wonderful road trip that wowed us!

The Australian east coast as we dreamed of! Thanks to Mickael for finding us the ideal motorhome and for having booked all the activities in advance, it was perfect!

Travel Tips

Pimente ton voyage en y ajoutant des activités inoubliables. Réserve à l’avance pour être sûr de ne rien rater.

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Van Life in Australia: East Coast vs West Coast

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Van Life: An Experience Free from Stress with Vanz Travel

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Exploring the Freedom and Versatility of High-Top Vans: A Comprehensive Guide

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Van with Rooftop Tent: A Perfect Companion on Australian Road Trips

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Maïtena’s good addresses in Brisbane

To discover the city of Brisbane, we interviewed Maïtena, a native of Montpellier who has been living in Australia since 2006. She moved to Brisbane with her family after a job transfer and has since fallen in love with the city and its surroundings. She is now an entrepreneur and has developed her own business, […]

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In this blog, we give you all the must-see spots to stop in during your road trip in Tasmania! Tasmania? State at 200 kilometers south of the Australian mainland, Tasmania is definitely the “road trip country” thanks to its wild nature and its varied landscapes! From the beach to the mountains to the bush, Tasmania […]

When is the best time to travel to Australia?

Australia covers a territory larger than the whole of Europe, so the climate can vary enormously from state to state. And this, for each season. (Not to mention the fact that Australia is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons there are reversed, something we tend to forget!) Certain times of the year are ideal for the East Coast, while others will be more conducive to exploring the famous Red Center or the Northern Territory. Advising you according to your desires and your availability is one of Vanz’s skills; Australia is a country that offers a wide variety of landscapes. Each region is unique and our goal is to help you discover them in the best possible conditions!

Is a van or motorhome enough to fully enjoy Australia?

Absolutely ! The majority of the unmissable destinations in Australia are perfectly accessible by van or motorhome. (Of course, that doesn’t take anything away from the Australian adventure as you imagine it!)

To experience Australia, home of the kangaroos, there are numerous options available. Our recommended choices are a perfect balance of a thrilling journey and comfort, suitable for all budgets. For those interested, we can also provide information about 4×4 rental options, such as those with roof tents, though these typically have a separate budget requirement.

What is the ideal length of a road trip in Australia?

The one that works for you! Here too, there are no “rules.” We have customers who crave more road trips after 2 months, while others are fully satisfied after just 2 or 3 weeks.

Our goal is to help you plan the road trip that fits your desires (without rushing!).

Do you want to travel the East Coast in 3 weeks? Combine road trips and relaxation? See as many must-sees as possible? Allow enough time to discover Sydney & Melbourne and the Gold Coast? We will be happy to share real on-the-ground advice with you, as we always have.

Do we have to book our activities in advance?

It is highly recommended, especially as spring and summer (Australian) approach.

The earlier you have the opportunity to plan, the more choices you’ll have in dates and availability (and the more financially attractive it will be!).

Thanks to our 10 years of experience, we now have direct contacts with all the tours we recommend, allowing us to quickly offer you several options (and any current promotions).

Furthermore, booking in advance allows you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind, simply show up at the designated location on the day of the activity, without having to worry about anything else!

PS: If you are traveling with children, we can also advise you on the most suitable activities or tours.

What happens if we need assistance during the road trip?

We always offer (and recommend) comprehensive 24/7 assistance insurance in case of any problems.

Our team remains available to you throughout your road trip, by email or phone!

Is the quote completely free?

Absolutely! What’s more, it is obligation-free.

We sincerely believe that we are one of the most attentive and dedicated agencies to anyone, couples, or families who contacts us to make their dream trip come true.

And we hope this is felt from our first exchanges, and therefore from our first personalized proposal.

In any case, our mission is to advise you the best to make your stay in Australia an unforgettable moment.

If you would like to trust us to organise your trip, we will be delighted. If not, we hope our first proposal has helped you in your planning.

To receive your personalised itinerary and a first estimate, simply complete the form available on this page.

Common questions about renting a van / motorhome (deposit, driver, mileage):

Before you book, here are some practical information:

Is there a security deposit to pay?

It’s common to pay a deposit or security fee when you rent an RV. The amount can vary based on the insurance coverage you choose. With the comprehensive insurance we recommend, there’s no deposit or fee required, even in case of breakdown.

Is there a daily mileage limit?

It depends on the rental company and the vehicle. However, we have enough experience to ensure that you don’t have to worry about mileage restrictions during your trip (when the mileage is unlimited, which is often the case).

Can I have a second driver?

Yes, of course! Just let us know, and we’ll make sure it’s included in your rental agreement.

Start your adventure today!

Get in touch with us to receive a first itinerary and a no-obligation quote. We'll get back to you within 24 hours, it's our promise!

The Best Small Camper Vans in Australia | 2024

Posted on Published: February 13, 2024

I love looking for the best small camper vans here in Australia, and as I see bigger and bigger motorhomes and caravans on the roads, it makes me even more determined that I would opt for a campervan rather than a large motorhome or caravan.

I’d travel around Australia indefinitely, just going wherever the weather is not too hot or cold, and taking my whole house with me wherever I go.

While I do love small camper vans, I do feel like it wouldn’t be great to live in it full-time as a couple .

But IF I were by myself, I think one of the smallest camper vans (but still with a bathroom!) would suit me just perfectly.

I’d have an electric bike on the back though, so I could head off to the shops or do a little bit of sightseeing, without having to pack everything up.

As a couple, I think a camper van would be great for just holidays, not to live in all the time.

So I’ve scoured the internet for campervan manufacturers here in Australia. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at just how many manufacturers there are.

I’ve collated my favourite vans in this list, and only included new camper vans that you could buy now.

No motorhomes or truck campers, and no one-off van conversions either.

Just to be clear, you may see camper vans referred to as a Class B. That’s the North American phrasing, and it means the same thing.

Oh, and I’ve only included models that have a bathroom.

Let’s get stuck in!

Looking for the perfect camper van?

Get our free campervan comparison spreadsheet to help you find the right van for you, all terrain campervan – by jayco, applause – by avan, bondi – by winnebago, escape – by avida, jabiru – by trakka, kruiswagon – by kimberley kampers, otway – by windsor, wattle – by horizon motorhomes.

It can be a bit overwhelming trying to find the campervan that best suits your needs. So I’ve created a spreadsheet with ALL the campervans and base vans (i.e. non-converted) that can be bought new in Australia.

It includes the exterior dimensions, interior height, base price, seating and bed layout, bathroom, solar and air conditioning; with links to each one.

Just enter your name and email address and I’ll send you the spreadsheet.

The spreadsheet includes all make/models of campervans and base vans manufactured, or sold new, in Australia.

Includes dimensions, specs like berths, solar & aircon, as well as base price and URLs.

Of the 3 campervan models that Jayco manufacture (All Terrain, Optimum & JRV), the All Terrain is the only 4WD model, and this layout is also available in the other two models. (However, they’re 2WD and $20-30k cheaper. :-O)

Jayco must be one of the biggest manufacturers of caravans here in Australia, but they’re not nearly so well known for their motorhome and camper van range.

However, their popular name and huge dealer network for the caravans probably helps them get these campers out there.

Click here to see more of the Jayco All Terrain Campervan.

Price: $168,990

The main thing I like about the Applause by Avan, is the rather nice bathroom. I have to admit that the shower does look a bit squishy, but the bathroom isn’t all practical, with no style.

Other than that, the Avan looks like a good standard camper van layout. I certainly have a preference for these layouts where you don’t have to choose between a seat or a bed, so this one fits the bill.

Click here to see more of the Avan Applause.

Price: from $142,990

I didn’t realise that Winnebago have their own manufacturing plant here in Australia. And so we’re producing our own camper vans with model names based on some of our iconic beaches (like Bondi).

The Winnebago Bondi looks pretty similar to many other camper vans available here in Australia. Except with Winnebago, it’s backed by that very well-known brand name and decades of experience.

Check out the Winnebago Bondi here .

Price : from $156,990

The electric roll down bed is a game-changer for me.

Previously, the idea of having to lower a table (well, first clean the table), play tetris with the cushions, make the whole bed from scratch (fitted sheets and all) and then get to sleep on a higglety-pigglety mattress with seams going every which way, did not appeal to me.

Having the bed (already made!) lower down from the roof, takes away all that annoyance.

Check out the Avida website for more info on the Escape . They’ve also got a good 3D walkthrough.

Price: from $156,000

It’s so refreshing to come across a camper van that has some unique features, that no one else has… yet.

The Trakka range of campervans is exactly that.

In this Jabiru they’ve got a really nice twin bed setup, a second fridge that swivels to the outside, a workbench that can be attached to the outside of the sliding door, and other neat tricks.

Totally worth checking out if you’re after something luxury AND unique.

Below is their promo video, but it shows all the cool features that can be a bit hard to find on the website.

And this article by Roam Magazine is somewhat gushing… but I think this particular camper van is worthy of it. You can read the article on Time to Roam here.

I totally recommend checking out their website. Even if you’re not actually in the market for a camper van. But you just love looking at RVs that have some new and innovative ideas. Click here for the Trakka Jabiru website.

Price: $216,749

Kimberley Kampers brought out their first motorised RV (they’re well known for their unique caravans) in 2023. And they’re off to a flying start!

The Kruiswagen is built on the Mercedes Sprinter 419 LWB AWD (Yay!) and it has some great features like the drop-down electric bed, waterless toilet and induction cooktop.

You can see all the details on video:

See the Kimberley Kampers Kruiswagen here .

Price: from $189,063

Windsor are most well known for their caravans, but in the last few years have jumped into the driveable RVs with a small range of motorhomes.

And now their newest offering is the Otway campervan.

I think this might be the only Australian campervan I’ve seen that utilises the garage conversion bed set up. So during the day you can lift up the centre portion of the bed allowing you to transport larger items (like bikes) but then easily convert it back to a bed at night.

See the Windsor Otway here.

Price: from $134,990

Built on the Mercedes Sprinter LWB, this campervan has plenty of room for a couple. With the option of single beds on either side of the van, or a queen with a walkway down one side; it’s also got a slightly bigger bathroom as well as captains chairs that swivel around to make a comfy seating area.

And yep, it comes with optional 4WD.

I follow the Horizon Instagram page, so I see the pictures that they show of Horizon camper van owners out and about in the Australian landscape, just enjoying all the beauty on offer.

It totally makes me want to be out there… preferably in one of their motorhome / camper vans!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Horizon Motorhomes (@horizonmotorhomes)

You can see more of the Horizon Motorhomes Wattle camper van over on their website .

Price: from $191,500

If this post has convinced you that a camper van is not your thing (!) then I’ve put together posts on small caravans,   fifth wheels and a small motorhome which may be the type of RV that is better suited to you.

What do you think of these small camper vans?

Would travel around Australia in one of these small RV campers, or do you need something a little bit bigger? Tell us in the comments.

And don’t forget, if you want to see a spreadsheet of all the campervans available new here in Australia, just sign up for our email newsletter and we’ll send you the spreadsheet for free. (You can unsubscribe whenever you want.)

Friday 3rd of March 2023

These are too damn big! Where is something genuinely small and innovative? They have them in Europe and Asia - 5.5 metres or less and easy to drive, park and store. Australians deserve better choices.

Monday 24th of January 2022

I wouldnt class these as "small" Campervans based on VW Transporter and HiAce would be more in line with smaller campervans.

Tuesday 25th of January 2022

That's true. But unfortunately, neither of those are big enough to fit a bathroom.

Thursday 13th of January 2022

Check out the website : livin life teardrop campers victoria. You can stand up in their teardrop and they are manufactured in Australia. You may like to do a review on them.

Sunday 16th of January 2022

Thanks Helen :-) I'll add you to our post on teardrop campers, if you want to send me through some details to [email protected]. Cheers, Michelle

meg hamilton

Thursday 28th of January 2021

Michelle I have a garage with roller slide door. What brand campervan you recommend to look for that would fit? I want to be a grey nomad so do not need big

Sunday 31st of January 2021

Hi Meg, Well it depends how tall your garage door is, but I suspect that you'll be limited to the smaller, pop-top type of campervans. I'm thinking something like the Trakkadu from Trakka https://trakka.com.au/models/trakkadu But download the spec sheet to check for dimensions. Good luck with your search! :-)

Saturday 23rd of January 2021

Have you looked at the Trakka Jabiru J2M? I am considering this with the possibility of attaching a motorbike carrier (to carry a Harley Davidson Street 500) that attaches to the tow hitch. I will be doing some firetrail driving but not hard-core 4wd.

Oh yes, it's actually my favourite model of them all! But with a 6'2" husband that east-west bed would be a bit too short, I think. Have you downloaded the spec sheet from the Trakka website? It has all the technical specs like payload. I think that would be your biggest concern, is how much weight you'd be adding to the van. But a motorbike to do all your sightseeing and errands, sounds awesome!

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Campervan Hire Australia

If you’re looking for flexibility and freedom to travel where you want, campervan hire in Australia is for you. Travel like a local - with no time constraints, taking the time to discover hidden gems along the way. Wake up next to the beach, the rainforest, the outback, or wherever you choose to park your motorhome and call home that day!

Australia is best explored by road. With an incredibly diverse landscape, there’s a new adventure waiting for you around every corner. Swim the coastlines surrounded by vibrant marine life, sample fine wines at world-class wineries, or experience the vast red sands of the outback. Hiring a campervan is the perfect way to do it all.

To get close to nature, all you have to do is step out of your Britz campervan and uncover all there is to explore. A Britz campervan lets you go where you want to, when you want to, and how you want to. With 2WD and 4WD campervan models to hire, the choice is yours. No matter what kind of traveller you are, a motorhome hire in Australia is the perfect way to disconnect from your everyday routine and experience something new. Britz campervans are available in 10 locations across Australia , from Adelaide , Alice Springs , Brisbane , Broome , Cairns , Darwin , Hobart , Melbourne ,  Perth and Sydney . So you’re never far from adventure, simply pick your ideal destination and there will be a Britz campervan depot not too far!

So what are you waiting for? Round up the kids, and even the dog , hire a camper from the experts at Britz and hit the road to discover Australia.

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Britz campervans built for australian conditions.

Britz is made up of a team of campervan travel experts. So we’ve designed campervans that prioritise comfort, convenience and safety for your classic Australian road trip. With three different 2WD campervans on our fleet, you can choose which amenities are important to you, to make sure you have the perfect holiday. Choose from our smaller campers that sleep from 2 adults (HiTop) to 2 adults and 2 children (Voyager), r our Trailblazer designed for a couple who'd prefer a private ensuite onboard. There’s a lot to consider when choosing a campervan, be sure to  compare our campervans and make the right choice for your travel style.

See Our Current Campervan Hire Deals

Looking to grab some epic savings on your Australian motorhome hire? Check out our current campervan hire deals to get you out on the road exploring more, for less! Whether you’re cruising along the coast or heading to the vast outback on one of our popular itineraries , find out how to save on your next campervan hire.

A Campervan is the Best Way to Explore Australia

Driving is the best way to explore Australia, well we think so anyway. From short 5-day trips to epic multi-week adventures, the road trips suggested by Britz have got you covered! Our popular routes provide an insight into the vast range of self-drive adventures on offer throughout Australia. Depending on where you want to start and how long you want your trip to last, use these as a guide to plan your next adventure.

Australian States

A drive holiday truly is one of the best ways to explore Australia. Whether you’re planning a family holiday with the kids , some rest and relaxation on a couple’s escape, or you’re keen to strap on your hiking boots and embark on an exploration adventure, Australia has something for you. You’ll enjoy the pristine beaches of  Queensland and  Western Australia to the vast red sands and national parks of the Northern Territory . Or, what about world-class wineries in South Australia , the adventurer’s island paradise of  Tasmania and all the uncovered gems in between. Grab a camper and take a trip to explore all the epic Australian states .

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are your frequently asked questions about campervan hire in Australia.

Renting a campervan for a road trip in Australia is an affordable way to explore. Britz campervans take the hassle out of preparing for your holiday. You’ll be glad to find that our vehicles are equipped with many everyday essentials, making your life easier. With apartment-style kitchen equipment and a functioning fridge, you’ll be able to prepare meals wherever you are! Choose to cook in your campervan and embrace the incomparable dining views out of your panoramic windows. As well as this, you’ll also save on accommodation costs that you can use towards activities during your holiday. With flexible pricing throughout the year, we recommend travelling in shoulder seasons when demand is lower for even more savings.

One of our favourite things about travelling in Australia is the ability to sleep wherever you want and wake up to a new view every day! There are an incredible amount of places to stay with a campervan in Australia . From camping in scenic national parks to powered or unpowered sites at the extensive holiday park network or free camping, there’s an option for everyone. Holiday parks are a great place to charge up your campervan and use the facilities that are available only with power. Be sure to book these in advance, especially if you’re travelling in peak season. Free camping is another way to spend your evenings, and it’s the ultimate outdoor experience. Embrace Australia’s beautiful outback with stunning uninterrupted views. Just be sure you ready up on everything you need to know to free camp respectfully .

We recommend downloading the  thl Roadtrip Planner App to help plan where you will stay during your campervan hire.

There are so many perks of van travel, one of the best things is the freedom to travel at your own pace. The ability to have flexibility can really be the make or break of a great getaway. As well as saving money on accommodation costs, you can be in charge of your own itinerary. Get up close and personal with the great Australian outback, have everything you need wherever you go, travel with your pets and most of all, enjoy quality time whilst creating new memories.

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See and experience everything Australia has to offer by a camper

Here are the tips and tricks to help you plan your next trip, guide to travelling around australia in a motorhome.

Travelling by campervan is one of the best ways to see and experience everything Australia has to offer. There’s nothing like the feeling of packing your camper and hitting the open road, following your bliss and enjoying the freedom to go and stay virtually anywhere. 

Rent a van to travel in, or make the leap to own your own motorhome, and you’ll be joining thousands of Aussies who travel the country each year.

There are many things to consider, and planning the routes to take will be an important start to your adventure before you’ve even headed off. Decide whether you should rent or buy the camper you’ll travel in, and what places and activities you really want to see (and which ones you don’t). Find out what road rules are important to know and where you can stop for the night. And remember to leave no trace as you travel around Australia’s parks and reserves.

These helpful tips and tricks will set your next road trip up for success.

Plan your routes

Being able to just get in the campervan and head off on your Australia road trip is the dream, but sometimes it takes a bit of planning, especially if you’re wanting to travel in peak times when you’ll be sharing the road with more people.

The good news is planning your route is all part of the fun. Think about where you want to go and what you really want to see and do as you travel. You may also find it helpful to think about roughly how long you’ll want to spend at each destination too. Leave extra time in case you get given a good tip you can’t miss, traffic is slow or you get chatting along the way. Aim to take a break every 2 hours and swap drivers if needed.

When you travel around Australia, you’ll start to see there are large stretches of rural outback and they can look the same if you’re not familiar with them, so it would be very easy to get lost if you don’t have a plan of where you’re going. 

It’s very important to note down where you’ll stop for gas and supplies too. The last thing you need is getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with no fuel or not enough food to get you through.

Unless you have a fully equipped vehicle and a reason to be there, stay on motorhome-safe roads, and avoid dirt roads or unsealed roads if you don’t want to get stuck, especially if it’s wet.

Buy or rent a vehicle

How long you want to travel around Australia for, and how often, will help you decide whether you should look at hiring a campervan or if you should look at motorhomes for sale.

If you’re planning on getting away on a road trip that'll last less than 3 months, renting may be a better option, and our KEA motorhomes are available to rent through Maui , Britz , and Mighty . When you rent a campervan, it comes fully equipped, includes roadside assistance, and you can travel for as long or short as you want. 

If you’re looking to travel Australia over a number of months or even years, then buying may make more sense in the long run. You can always rent a campervan first to try before you buy and see if it’ll be a good fit with your lifestyle. 

Stock up the motorhome

Always make sure you have plenty of food and water onboard. Gas stations and shops can be few and far between, so whenever you get the opportunity, stop and fill up the tank and the cupboards. It’s handy when you pull up to a campsite and not have to head out for food, or when there aren’t any shops nearby.

Visit local markets as you travel and stock up on fresh produce and delicacies, and if you like relaxing in the evening with a glass of wine, stop in at the cellar doors.

Hot weather means carrying water is really important. Make sure you carry enough water, and food, per person - at least 4-5 litres of water a day per person is a good rule of thumb. Have extra for emergencies and overnight. 

Australia has unpredictable weather in some areas, and even on hot sunny days, it can turn quickly, so have the “just in case” items too like good hiking boots, warm clothing and waterproof jackets.

Use an itinerary

Itineraries help you make the most of planning your road trip. If you start with a pre-prepared one, you’ll have a good idea of travel times and what you can fit in. You can either stick with that one, or use it as a guide to plan around the things you really want to make time for, like those ultimate bucket list stops.

Using an itinerary means you can stick to a set route and safe roads, and keep to a timeline if you have somewhere you need to be, like a pre-booked tour. But keep it flexible so it’s not so rigid it takes the joy out of travelling - road trips are about the freedom to go at your own pace.

Make sure you include stays at powered sites every couple of days to keep your motorhome interior charged up and running as well as to dispose of waste and top up your water tank for the shower and sink.

Follow the rules of the road

For a safe trip, make sure you check and follow the road rules for each state you’re in. 

Australians drive on the left hand side of the road, and give way to the right - that includes roundabouts and intersections. Even something as simple as honking your horn in a residential area may get you a fine.

Check the speed limits regularly. Different streets and towns may have different limits so it’s best not to assume, even on the open road.

Australia doesn’t allow phone use when driving (though some states do allow hands-free), so put the phone away while driving. The same goes for alcohol - Australia does have breath testing so save it for the end of the day when you’ve finished driving and parked up for the evening. 

If you’ve been driving Aussie roads for a while, all of this will be familiar. It’s worth noting though that a camper is not that much harder than driving a car. You may want to invest in accessories or upgrade your vehicles tech with reversing cameras and monitors to make parking and reversing a breeze. 

Check the forecast

Australia is famous for its blue skies and sunny days, but not all areas are hot, and some states experience tropical rain and cooler nights.

It’s a good idea to check what weather you can expect for the season and state you’re heading to, and plan your trip around the type of weather you find comfortable. For example, if you don’t like really hot weather, plan your trip for cooler months or head to areas where the temperatures aren’t as harsh.

Make sure you carry sunscreen, sun hats and appropriate clothing to keep the sun off you. Even on cloudy days you can still burn.

Know where you can park for the night

Australia is very camper-friendly, but there are some areas where it may be culturally insensitive to park up, or use the land in a way which isn’t seen to be respectful. It’s always good to get accustomed to the Aboriginal beliefs around land and sea before you travel.

There are also areas where you can’t just park anywhere, and there’ll be signs in place highlighting the restrictions. If you do happen to park in a restricted spot, you run the risk of getting fined. 

Make the most of the parking at the beautiful National Parks instead, or stay in the many great camping grounds and holiday parks across Australia. Check out the thl Roadtrip App for finding campsites and other hidden gems along the drive. 

Mind the wildlife

There is so much beautiful wildlife to enjoy, but in some areas they can be free roaming. If the wildlife is near roads, they likely won’t have any road sense, and may dart out suddenly, so do be careful when driving.

Remember to leave no trace , take your rubbish with you, take care with campfires, and respect their home.

Choose the right motorhome

Each motorhome is set up a little differently, and which one you ultimately travel with will depend on a number of factors. What kind of travel do you want to do, how many of you will be travelling, can you get up into a bed over the cab, do you want to have guests come and visit, what can you comfortably drive? All of these are important considerations when choosing the right motorhome for you.

Decide if you are happy to use campground facilities, or if you would rather have onboard facilities, particularly if you are travelling in outback areas, and remember to check you have enough room to pack your luggage, outdoor gear and supplies.

Use a navigation app

A navigation app helps make short work of planning, includes tips to help make travelling easier and offline maps that let you access them when you don’t have coverage or data so you can find your way, or plan the next leg when you’re off-grid.

It lists dump spots, campgrounds, petrol stations, and handy ‘how-to’ motorhome advice, and you can tap into the discussions to get great advice from other travellers. 

Thinking of buying a motorhome for your travels?

Check out our other helpful guides. 

• How to choose the right motorhome
• The best time of year to buy a motorhome  

Get more advice for travelling in a campervan with KEA Motorhomes. Come into a branch or visit us online .

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OUR DIFFERENCE

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Campervan Hire Australia

As a proud and well established Australian campervan hire company, Travellers Autobarn (est. 1993) is a ‘one-stop shop’ for the backpackers and budget travellers planning their self-drive trip around Australia or simply up the coast in a campervan.

Select your campervan

Chubby Camper

Seats 2 • sleeps 2.

Kuga Campervan

Seats 2-3 • sleeps 2-3.

Hi-5 Campervan

Seats 2-5 • sleeps 2-5.

Solar panel

Hi-Top Campervan

Stationwagon

External Table

Specials, Discounts & Relocations

15% off - cairns pick-up, 15% off - sydney, brisbane & melbourne, melbourne to sydney relocation, roadtrip app discounts, free campsites australia wide, 10% off g'day campground parks, why #vanlife is better with us.

Unlimited Kilometres with each rental

No young driver fees – rentals available from age 18 to 80

Free Camp Sites Australia wide

10% Discount with Campground Partners

Security Bonds are only frozen – no cash deductions

24/7 Roadside Assistance – Peace of Mind

RoadTrip App – discounted activities, campsites and lots more around Australia

Free Cancellation up to 15 days prior to pick-up date

Renting Campervans since 1993 – we know Australia inside out

Locations around Australia ( Brisbane , Cairns , Darwin , Melbourne , Perth , Sydney ) & New Zealand & USA

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your cancellation fee.

Until 14 days before pick-up, no cancellation fee applies:

1. $200 – within 14 days of pick-up

2. 50% – within 7 days of pick-up

3. 100% – same day or no show cancellation

What is your Covid policy?

From 14th of October 2022 mandatory isolations are no longer required by the Australian government. This means you no longer need to postpone/cancel your road trip due to isolation requirements. If you decide to cancel your road trip from the 14th of October 2022 we will no longer offer any credit notes and the standard cancellation policy will apply:

Can I pick up/drop off my vehicle outside of office hours?

We do offer pick ups and drop offs outside of our office hours. To arrange a pick up or drop off outside of our hours, please contact our reservations team at [email protected] or 1800 674 374 to be assisted when making your booking.

What do I do when my campervan breaks down?

Travellers Autobarn vehicles are maintained and serviced regularly, unfortunately this doesn’t prevent the occasional mechanical malfunction or breakdown.

In the event you experience any problems, even minor, you must contact our Customer Care team for further assistance. If immediate assistance is required, it is best to phone us.

Australia: 1800 674 374

New Zealand: 0800 348 348

USA (+1) 800 469 4790

Minor mechanical repairs costing less than $100 may be undertaken without contacting us for authorisation and will be reimbursed when you return the vehicle, receipts must be provided as proof, or we are unable to refund you.

How much will my road trip cost? How can I estimate this?

To get a fair estimate of your road trip cost, you should consider the basic factors like:

• Accommodation
• Food and drinks
• Travel and Tour passes
• Transport fees

For more details, check out our detailed guide on how to budget for your backpacking trip to Australia .

How does the bond/excess on a rental vehicles work?

When it comes to security bond options it can get quickly very confusing…so let’s talk about it and provide as much information as we can for you.

Basically, the security bond is how much you need to have available on your Visa/Mastercard credit card (please note that we don’t accept cash cards) at the time you hire your vehicle.  We will pre-authorise this amount, which means placing a hold on the funds for approximately 14 days, we do not actually deduct the funds at this time.

In the event your vehicle or third-party property is damaged, the amount of the security bond will be deducted from your credit card account and you will need to pre-authorise a 2 nd  security bond before you continue with your hire.

You can choose different options to reduce the amount of your security bond as outlined below.

IMPORTANT:  In the event any damage is caused to your vehicle or third-party property by you breaching our Terms and Conditions or the damage is caused due to one of the Exclusions listed below, the amount that is payable by you could be in excess of the security bond that you have chosen.

Standard Protection – $0/day – $3500 Security Bond

If you choose our Standard Protection package, your security bond is $3,500. This is our default package and is included in your daily hire rate. On pick-up, we will freeze the amount of $3,500 on your credit card for approximately 14 days from the pick-up date.

Under this option, you will also be responsible for the full cost of damage caused by Single Vehicle Rollovers or the market value of the vehicle if a Write-Off up to a maximum amount of $50,000.

Protection Plus – $30-$35/day – $0 Security Bond

If you choose the Protection Plus package, your security bond is $0 (On pick-up, we will take an imprint of your credit card) and includes cover for two tyres & one front windscreen.

Under this option, you will also be responsible for the cost of damage caused by Single Vehicle Rollovers or Write-Offs up to a maximum amount of $10,000. The daily rate for this cover is $30/day for StationWagons and $35/day for Campervans.

Protection Plus Value Pack – $35-$45/day – $0 Security Bond

If you choose the Protection Plus Value package, your security bond is $0. On pick-up, we will take an imprint of your credit card – no amounts will be frozen on your credit card. It also includes two front tyres, one front windscreen, one extra driver, an external table & pre-paid Gas for your gas cooker.

This Protection Plus package also  includes  cover for single vehicle roll-overs and write-offs (something many other rental companies don’t cover). The daily rate for this cover is $35/day for StationWagons and $45/day for Campervans.

At all times the Hirer is fully responsible for all fees, damages, expenses and/or costs for:

• Loss or damage caused by or resulting from a breach of the terms of this Agreement by the Hirer (including any authorised driver).
• Loss or damage caused due to use of the Vehicle in contravention of clause 11, 22 or 25 of this Agreement.
• Damage caused to the Vehicle by not driving in a prudent and cautious manner.
• Damage caused to the Vehicle by driving on unsealed roads or beach driving.
• Damage caused to the Vehicle in any way by part or total water submersion, including in flood water, river water, salt water, or any other source of water.
• Damage caused to the Vehicle by the Hirer’s wilful conduct or reckless, e.g. sitting or standing on the bonnet or roof of the Vehicle.
• Damage caused to the Vehicle due to use of incorrect or contaminated fuel.
• Damage caused due to the use or misuse of snow chains.
• Damage or loss caused to any personal belongings.
• Damage to the awning, overhead (roof) or under-body of the Vehicle.
• Damage caused to the Vehicle because the Hirer has failed to perform tyres checks and maintain all fluid and fuel levels or failed to immediately rectify or report to us any defect of which you become aware.
• All costs to replace keys which have become lost, broken, damaged, stolen or of retrieval of keys which been locked in the Vehicle, or where the Vehicle has been stolen due to it being unlocked.
• Loss or damage caused where it is deemed by local authorities to have been careless or wilful in failing to comply with any legislation or regulation controlling vehicular traffic, resulting in damage to the hired Vehicle and/or Third-Party Vehicle or any other property.
• Damage caused by the Hirer’s failure to take reasonable measures for the safety of the Vehicle, its parts or accessories, or failure to comply with all restrictions on the use of the Vehicle or otherwise abuse or misuse of it.
• The cost of recovering the Vehicle in the event it becomes stuck or bogged in wet ground, sand or mud.
• Damage to or loss of personal belongings of the Hirer or any other person within the Vehicle

For more details on all our Security Bond Options and Exclusions, please refer to our Terms and Conditions, which can be found  here…

Do I need to carry spare parts for the car?

You might want to carry a couple of hoses or belts, but unless you are mechanically minded these won’t do you any good. Always carry plenty of spare water – especially if you are planning to travel in Western Australia or the Northern Territory!

All our vehicles come with 24 hour road side assistance. On top of this, you can count on the generosity of the Australians to help you out of a bind.

Is it legal for people who are not Australian residents to own a car?

There is no problem for visitors to Australia to own a car. You still need to follow the Australia road rules and we highly recommend an international driving license if you are planning to buy a car…

Do I need a special license?

You may travel with a valid international drivers license, or any full, valid license from your country of residence. A translation of your national drivers license may be required.

How many people can fit in each vehicle?

Seat belts are mandatory in Australia. The number of passengers depends on the number of seat belts – which depends on the vehicle. Driving/riding in a car without a seatbelt or driving with more passengers than seatbelts each result in on the spot fines.

Where can I find all the information I need and how can I contact Travellers Autobarn?

Our website provides comprehensive information about buying a vehicle with Travellers Autobarn. You are most welcome to contact our friendly and professional sales and reservation via email or via the phone – contact details can be found here

Road Trips & Travel Tips

Free Camping Esperance

Free Camping Coober Pedy

Free Camping Central Coast

Let’s all look after our planet., leave no trace. let’s all look after our planet., over 6000 happy customers every year.

I took one of their campers for a trip from Sydney to Brisbane, a very pleasant experience! The camper drove great and didn’t have any problems along the way. The customer service was good as well, I had some questions they answered immediately. Would definitely recommend and will use them again in the future!

We spent 3 weeks driving down the coast from Brisbane to Melbourne and had the best time ever. The Kuga camper van was spacious enough for three girls and all their luggage and fully equipped with everything you could possibly need on the road (pillows, sleeping bags, cutlery, pots, pans...). A big bonus was the tra...

I appreciated the honesty and level of service from both pickup and drop off staff. Amazing value, quality of the facilities/equipment on board and excellent vehicle condition. Would definitely hire through them for my next adventure again!

My boyfriend and I rented a campervan with Travellers Autobarn for the weekend and they were amazing! They were very friendly and helpful through the whole process. The campervan was roomy and had everything we needed. It was especially nice have a USB outlet in which to charge our electronic devices. We loved out w...

Great value for money! Our van was super modern and fully equipped, it had everything we needed. We drove down the east coast from Cairns to Brisbane in 2 weeks, there is no better way to experience Australia! On the top of that the staff on pick up and drop off was super friendly! We highly recommend Travellers Aut...

Australia is amazing and discover it with a campervan is outstanding! The campervan we rented with Travellers Autobarn was our home during three weeks. It is super comfortable and really well equipped! I will never forget this trip!

Hiring a campervan from Travellers Autobarn was super easy! Great staff that gave me some awesome tips before I headed out on my trip. I had the Kuga Campervan and it was amazing and super handy having everything in there. This was my first time doing a roadtrip with a campervan and the ease of getting around was so...

This was my second time hiring and my experience was flawless once again. The van was clean, mechanically sound, the booking experience was seamless and above all such great value for money. I cannot recommend these guys enough!

We have rented from this company several times and have had a great experience every time. The service is wonderful and very accommodating to individual needs. The personnel are always in a good mood and takes the time to go through the process thoroughly. We are definitely renting from Travellers Autobarn again on...

This was my second time hiring and my experience was flawless once again. The van was clean, mechanically sound, the booking experience was seamless, and above all such great value for money.

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The best car to travel Australia? 2025 Volkswagen California plug-in hybrid revealed with Australian arrival likely for factory-built camper version of Ford Transit and Mercedes V-Class rival

With a small amount of electric range to get you around town and a petrol motor to carry you into the wilderness, would you ever need more vehicle than the new ‘T7’ Volkswagen California camper plug-in hybrid?

If you need to venture far off-road, then possibly. Still, thanks to its MQB underpinnings, VW’s new camper van that was just revealed in Europe has the option of an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time. 

There are now sliding doors on both sides, adopted from the Mercedes-Benz V-Class and Ford Transit Custom -rivalling long wheelbase Multivan , which aid practicality and ventilation.

A Volkswagen Australia spokesperson told CarsGuide that the new California is coming to Australia, with engine/spec range and timings yet to be confirmed. 

The T6.1 California is available in Beach trim in Australia and that is likely to continue in the next generation. The 2.0-litre diesel AWD configuration may change, however. 

Inside, the Camper gets a pair of individual front seats that can swivel through 180-degrees. The redesigned cabin has dual screens and a shift-by-wire system that means walking through to the rear compartment is easier than before. 

A pop-up roof and redeveloped mattress is standard fitment, while an optional awning can help shield from rain or sun. Volkswagen touts a ‘large number’ of USB-C fast-charge ports within. 

At 5173mm long the new van is 269mm longer than before and 37mm wider for enhanced interior space. An identical 1990mm height to its predecessor means the California is still city-friendly.

In Europe, the California is offered with a 110kW turbo diesel or 150kW turbo-petrol, both powering the front wheels through and eight-speed automatic transmission. 

The Multivan PHEV's set-up produces 160kW and, allied with a 13kWh battery, can travel about 50km on electric power. Being heavier, we’d anticipate around 40km from the California if it uses the same battery. 

The California Beach is a good basic set-up but overseas markets get more fully-featured configurations. The Beach Tour scores a 40Ah auxiliary battery, extra fold-out mattress and folding table, while the four-seat Beach Camper is fitted with a gas cooker as part of a kitchenette and an extra battery. 

Volkswagen’s flagship California Ocean, meanwhile, is outfitted with heated seats, 28-litre fresh water tank, extra three-pin socket for an electric cooker and ‘Melánge Raven’ coloured recycled upholstery. 

Not sacrificing its signature two-tone look, the ‘Bulli’ is available in Mono Silver/Energetic Orange metallic, Deep Black Pearl/Fontana Red metallic Candy White solid/Starlight Blue metallic.

The pop up bellows are also customisable with Toffee Brown, Glacier Blue and Basalt Grey offered.

Australian pricing, features and specification for the new Volkswagen California camper are yet to be confirmed. 

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Gabby Petito's mother says she 'knew' her daughter was dead

• Gabby, 22, was murdered by her boyfriend Brian Laundrie on a 2021 road trip
• READ MORE:  Brian Laundrie's parents reveal how killer son planned to work on an Oregon pumpkin farm with girlfriend Gabby Petito before her murder

Gabby Petito 's mother has revealed her heartbreaking intuition that her daughter was dead from the moment she went missing. 

Travel blogger Gabby, 22, was murdered by her boyfriend Brian Laundrie , 23, in 2021, with whom she was travelling across America in a renovated white van.  

Their life together had seemed perfect - they were high school sweethearts seeking to explore the USA on a four-month adventure.  

When Gabby went missing, a hunt was launched to find her, captivating the attention of millions across the world.  

Now members of Gabby's family have spoken out about the devastating torment they faced when she went missing in a new ITV documentary, The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. 

Her heartbroken mother Nichole Schmidt said that from the moment Gabby was officially declared missing on September 11, 2021, she knew that her daughter was 'gone'.  

Nichole said, as reported in  The Mirror : 'Gabby was officially a missing person on September 11, 2021.

'That night a detective showed up at my door and from that moment on, I knew in my heart that my daughter was gone – but I kept strong for everyone else.

'It was a mother’s instinct. I just knew. Her dad Joe asked what I thought and I said, ‘I don’t know but we need to find her.'

A nationwide hunt for the blogger turned into a social media obsession, with internet sleuths finding clues about what had happened.  

It was eventually discovered that Gabby was strangled and was left in a forest by Laundrie, her high school friend-turned-boyfriend, who she had met at school in 2019. 

After another hunt, Laundrie would eventually die by suicide from a single gunshot to the head, after admitting to killing Gabby in a notebook - finally bringing her friends and family the closure they needed. 

Gabby and Laundrie were making a road trip across America in a renovated van in what was to be a four-month adventure. 

Laundrie himself always seemed 'nice' and 'kind', Nichole said, and Gabby seemed to completely trust him.  

On July 2, 2021, they set off from Blue Point, Long Island, stopping off at national parks along the way. 

Their first stop was Monument Rocks in Kansas on July 4. From there, they went to Colorado Springs.   

Gabby documented the whole trip on her YouTube channel and social media, hoping she would become a social media star through her videos about #vanlife.

In one video titled 'Beginning Our Van Life Journey, posted on August 19, she filmed Laundrie doing some yoga by the van, and demonstrated her own cheery disposition. 

Describing her daughter, Nichole said: 'Gabby was a spitfire. She knew what she wanted from early on. I knew she was going to go for it and be successful.'

Meanwhile her father Joe added in the documentary: 'That was my baby, you know. That was my angel.'

Nichole continued: 'I think she wanted to become a famous vlogger. She was really focused on enjoying the travel and putting it out there for everyone to see.'

At first, Gabby kept in touch with her parents, who are separated, almost every day. 

She had a folder she shared with her mother where she uploaded photographs so she could see what was happening. 

They would call and text often - and Gabby would even sent postcards to Laundrie's family detailing their travels.   

When Gabby arrived at Mystic Hot Springs in Utah, Nichole admitted she had 'never seen' her daughter as happy as she looked in the photograph. 

But soon, things grew odd. Gabby began to post on social media less and less. Where her earlier posts had included lengthy captions about where she was going, soon they were only accompanied by vague quotes. 

Her last post, on August 25, 2021, showed her holding a crocheted pumpkin, with the caption 'Happy Halloween' - despite the holiday being more than a month away. 

This was around the time she FaceTimed her parents for the final time - and little did they know, this would be the last time they ever saw her.  

Then came unusual messages. The first one that seemed 'weird' read: 'Can you help Stan, I just keep getting his voicemails and missed calls'. It seemed to be about her grandfather, but was a name she'd never used for him. 

Nichole received a text message on August 30 that they were in Yosemite and had no service. But Gabby was supposed to be in Wyoming - and from there, all communication stopped. 

After her family grew increasingly concerned, Gabby was officially reported as missing on September 11. 

Afterwards, several disturbing facts came to light. On September 1, Laundrie had returned to his parents' house alone with the van - and without Gabby. 

On August 12, police had received a 911 call from a witness who had seen the couple - and saw Gabby being 'slapped'. 

It was the first time the public had seen a new side to their relationship and outside the idyllic life they had portrayed on social media.  

Public attention ramped up even more when body-cam footage from that day showed Brian and Gabby had been pulled over by the police after the 911 call near the entrance to Arches National Park. 

Gabby was clearly shaken and in tears, while Laundrie had scratches over his body.  

'We've just been fighting this morning, some personal issues', Gabby told the cops, adding that she had been stressed. 

Laundrie brushed off the 'scratches', calling Gabby 'crazy'. Despite the incriminating 911 call, police declared him a victim of domestic assault and gave him a hotel room for the night - afterwards letting them go on their way. 

It was a frustrating moment - that Gabby had been within reach of protection, but would be left alone and vulnerable once more. 

YouTubers posted a video showing Gabby's van at Wyoming in late August - and on September 19, 2021, her body was finally found. 

The search then turned to finding Laurie, whose remains were eventually discovered in Florida's Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on October 20.

Gabby's family has since set up the Gabby Petito Foundation, which provides support to finding missing people and those suffering from domestic violence.  

The Disappearance of Gabby Petito is on ITV at 9pm on Thursday and is available to stream now on ITVX.