Guide to Vacationing with an RV in Australia

 

With its vast landscapes, unique fauna, and wide roads with a seemingly endless view, the land down under is perfect for a road trip adventure. RVing around Australia allows you to see everything the beauty of this country has to offer at your own pace and with your own “home on wheels.” If you are taking a road trip down under, here is everything you need to know to make the most of your RV experience.

Government Tourist Information RV (caravan) camping – no bookings, just turn up and stake your claim!Why Go RVing in Australia?

An RV (Recreational Vehicle) is a happy compromise – the ability to hit the open road with a mobile home wherever you wander. An RV allows you to get away to remote places, camp under the stars, and take your time without stressing about hotel check-ins or timetables. Check out some of the best reasons how an RV is the best way to enjoy an Australian holiday.

Flexibility – Go and stop at your own pace

Convenience – Explore wild frontiers while still enjoying the convenience of home.

Cost Effective – Stay in stunning locations for the price of dirt!

Nature Near You – Enjoy the perfect natural setting with a beautiful view outside your door, whether that be a beach or a mountain.

Pick the right RV for travel

There are different kinds of RVs, with different features and benefits. Below is a brief overview of the most common RV styles for road trips in Australia:

Campervans — Smaller, more compact and easier to drive, perfect for solo adventurers or couples.

Motorhomes – Bigger than camper vans and providing enhanced facilities and space. Perfect for families or anyone who wants a bit more luxury.

Caravans – Towable type of RV that you can leave at a camping site as you explore the region with your car.

4WD Campers – Ideal you for going off-road, if you're hitting the rugged trails, such as in the Outback.

Things to Consider When Choosing an RV The number of travelers, route and budget will also determine what RV will work best for you, but you can click here to learn more about it. There are tons of options available with different rental companies, so you should be able to find something suited to your needs.

Where to Drive Your Van: The Best RV Spots In Australia

Australia is enourmous, so you should decide on your itinerary beforehand. Places To See In An RV 1.

Great Ocean Road (Victoria)[image: 2]

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most well-known road trips in Australia, spanning over 240 kilometers of coastline in Victoria. From scenic lookouts to surfing beaches to the infamous Twelve Apostles, this road trip is one to remember. This drives has numerous RV parks and campsites, so you can stop and take in the views along the way.

Red Centre (NT)

For the classic Outback experience, go to the Red Centre where you become acquainted with Uluru, Alice Springs, and the glorious Kings Canyon. While it is far removed from the urban life, there are some nicely equipped campgrounds and RV spots out there. Pack for a long distance between stops.

East Coast (Queensland)

Whether you want to soak up the rays, adventure or both, the east coast of Queensland, including the Great Barrier Reef and Fraser Island, is made for RVing visitors. The Sunshine Coast + Whitsundays + Airlie Beach + Cairns Drive from Brisbane all the way up to Cairns and take stops along the way in the Sunshine Coast, Whitsundays and Airlie Beach. Inland is lovely but there are so many holiday parks along the coastal route where all of the amenities you will need.

Tasmania

Tasmania — the secret Best RV destination that everyone overlooks Tasmania offers stunning beaches, national parks, and endemic animals, and is perfect for anyone who desires an alternative Australia. It is also small so it is easy to get around by RV, and there are spots all over the state to camp.

RVing in Oz 101: 10 Essential Tips

Know the Road Rules

Remember that Australia has road rules, so check these out before you go on the road. Australians, for example, drive on the left side of the road. If necessary, obtain an international driving permit.

Pack Smart

Travel light, but make sure to have your sunscreen, insect repellent and sturdy walks. Climate can change considerably, so look at the weather prediction at your route and be ready for various conditions. Get some groceries, especially if you are going to out of city.

Plan for Fuel Stops

Depending on where you are, especially in the Outback, fuel stations can be few and far between. Always top off your tank, take spare gas if you are going into the back country. Most RVs drive with pretty good fuel economy, but it’s still a good idea to have a plan!

Book Campsites in Advance

There are many RV parks and campgrounds throughout Australia, from simple sites to fully-equipped holiday parks. They fill up fast during peak season (Sat through Fri December to February) so best to make reservations.

Stay Safe with Wildlife

In Australia, most of us are used to seeing strange wildlife, but animals can be hazardous when driving at dusk or dawn. For instance, kangaroos tend to jump on the road. Avoid Stacking– Try not to get into an accident.

Top RV-Friendly Apps to Use

Use these apps to help plan your road trip with the best campsites, gas stations and attractions nearby. Some popular apps include:

Wikicamps Australia — A brilliant app for finding local campsites, holiday parks and free camp sites.

Fuel Map Australia – Discover point along the route where to find fuel and compare prices.

CamperMate – details on campsites, rest stops, and handy hints for travelers

A Budget for Your Australian Road Trip by RV

A trip in a motorhome around Australia is a very budget-friendly option, but it is a good idea to plan your budget. Some breakdown of possible expenditures is below:

Cost of Corporation RV – Prices will differ based on the season, size of RV, and also the RV leasing corporation. This may come down between AUD $50–$200 a day.

Fuel – Approx AUD $1.50 per litre That can add up — and add up — for long hauls.

Accommodation – Free campsites exist, but you can also pay upwards of AUD $20–$50 a night to stay at a holiday park with full amenities.

Groceries – The cost of food is similar to that of most western countries but it is often more expensive in the more remote areas.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through Australia with an RV provides one of the best experiences to see the stunning scenery that exists across the continent, from sandy beaches to red deserts. If you plan accordingly, choose the right trail, and take a risk, the trip of a lifetime awaits you. Buckle up and load your car with the essentials and, of course, your stops, Australia awaits.Every one of your best kilometers! Safe travels!

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