Damon Mcknight
Australia is a large country with diverse landscapes, from wetlands and deserts to lush rainforests and snowy highlands. Driving around Australia is often called The Big Lap and is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The distance travelled on The Big Lap can vary, with some sources estimating a minimum of 15,000 km, while others suggest it can be up to 30,000 km or more when factoring in detours and side trips. The world record for completing The Big Lap is held by a group called Highway One To Hell, who completed the journey in 5 days, 13 hours, and 43 minutes. However, most people will take much longer, with sources recommending a minimum of three months to a year or more to fully enjoy the experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance covered | 14,500 km (Highway 1 "ring road") to 15,500 km (including detours) or more |
| Time taken | 6 weeks to 2 years or more |
| Best time to travel | Between June and February, avoiding the wet season in the tropical north (November to April) |
| Direction | Clockwise or anticlockwise |
| Vehicle | Car, campervan, RV, motorcycle |
| Budget | Average of AU$72-78 per person per day; possible to travel on a budget of $100 per day |
| Accommodations | Campsites, caravan parks, hotels |
| Attractions | Wetlands, desert fringes, rainforests, snowy highlands, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree National Park, Whitsunday Islands, Fraser Island, Corals Coast, the Kimberleys |
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What You'll Learn
The minimum distance is 15,500km
Australia is a large country, covering 7.692 million km². As such, driving around the country is often called "The Big Lap" and is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The minimum distance of The Big Lap is 15,500km, following Australia's Highway 1, also known as the "ring road", which forms a network of highways that circumnavigates the country, connecting seven of Australia's eight capital cities and other key locations. The route takes drivers through Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Perth, Esperance, Adelaide, and Melbourne. A separate section crosses the Bass Strait to Hobart, Tasmania.
The 15,500km distance includes a minimum of 1,000km of detours to Darwin and other destinations off the highway. The Big Lap can be undertaken in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. The best time to do the Big Lap is between June and February, avoiding the wet season in the tropical north of Australia, which runs from November to April.
The minimum time required to complete The Big Lap is three months, although some may complete it in as little as six weeks. However, this faster pace means spending a maximum of one to two days at each destination. A longer trip of one year or more is also an option, allowing travellers to spend more time at each location and fully experience the diverse landscapes of Australia, from wetlands and desert fringes to lush rainforests and snowy highlands.
There are many variables to consider when planning The Big Lap, including seasons, weather patterns, departure location, travel timeframes, budget, and travel style. It is important to keep plans flexible to allow for lingering in favourite spots, exploring local recommendations, and discovering hidden gems. Emergencies can occur at any time on the road, so it is vital to have the right tools and supplies.
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It takes 3 months minimum
Australia is a large country, covering 7.692 million km², so there is plenty to see and do. The Big Lap, as it is often called, is a road trip that covers about 14,500 km if you follow Highway 1, the world's longest national highway. The route takes you through Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Perth, Esperance, Adelaide, and Melbourne, with a separate section for Hobart in Tasmania.
However, if you want to take detours to places like Darwin, you will need to add at least another 1,000 km, bringing the total distance to a minimum of 15,500 km. The Big Lap is a unique experience, offering diverse landscapes, from wetlands and deserts to lush rainforests and snowy highlands.
While some ambitious travellers have completed the trip in as little as six weeks to two months, it is recommended to plan for at least three months. This allows you to spend more than just one or two days at each destination and gives you the flexibility to linger in favourite spots, explore local recommendations, and discover hidden gems.
Additionally, a three-month trip saves you from having to drive long distances every day, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The best time to undertake the Big Lap is between June and February, avoiding the wet season in the tropical north, which can make roads impassable.
To make the most of your trip, it is essential to plan and prepare. This includes considering factors such as seasons, weather patterns, departure location, travel timeframes, budget, and travel style. It is also beneficial to use apps like the thl Roadtrip app, which can help you find local campsites, holiday parks, and top attractions, as well as navigate offline maps to avoid unsafe or unsealed roads.
When it comes to accommodation, there are many free or inexpensive options available, such as roadside stops, designated campgrounds, and national parks. Caravan parks, which typically range from $25 to $70 per night, can provide a more comfortable stay every few nights. Budgeting is crucial, as costs can add up quickly, especially with soaring fuel prices.
The Big Lap is a memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it requires careful planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
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The best time to go is between June and February
The best time to go on a road trip around Australia, also known as "The Big Lap", is between June and February. Australia is home to tropical, subtropical, desert and temperate climates, so the seasons and weather patterns vary depending on the region.
Most of the Australian continent experiences four seasons: summer (December to February), autumn (March to May), winter (June to August), and spring (September to November). However, the tropical north of Australia only experiences two seasons: the wet season (November to April) and the dry season (May to October). The wet season is characterised by heavy rainfall, and roads often become impassable. Therefore, it is best to avoid the wet season and plan your trip between June and February.
During this period, you can enjoy the cool coastal climate in the southern regions during the warmer months of spring and summer. If you're looking for a tropical paradise, consider a Queensland coastal trip. For an outback adventure, explore the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Keep in mind that summer is the most expensive time to travel in Australia due to high demand, so plan and book in advance if you're travelling during this peak season.
The ideal duration for your road trip around Australia is three months or more. This allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and experience the country's unique culture without having to rush. You can follow Highway 1, also known as "The Big Lap", which is the world's longest national highway. It connects seven of Australia's capital cities and covers approximately 14,500 to 15,500 kilometres, depending on your detours and side trips.
When planning your trip, consider factors such as your budget, travel style, and departure location. Be prepared for emergencies and have the right tools and supplies. Keep your plans flexible so you can linger in favourite spots, explore local recommendations, and discover hidden gems.
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It costs $100 per day
The Big Lap of Australia is a road trip that covers a minimum distance of 15,500km, including detours to Darwin and other destinations off the highway. The trip typically takes between six weeks and a couple of months to complete, but it is recommended to plan for at least three months to avoid having to drive long distances every day and to be able to enjoy the scenery.
If you are trying to complete the Big Lap on a budget of $100 per day, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, fuel is typically the biggest expense when driving around Australia, so you will need to consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and plan your route carefully to minimise costs. You can also save money by taking advantage of Australia's many free or low-cost camping options instead of staying at caravan parks or hotels, which can cost anywhere from $15 to $200 per night.
To stay within your budget, you should also consider the type of activities you will do each day. Some days might be mostly spent driving, while on other days you might want to do several paid activities or visit multiple attractions. Planning your itinerary in advance and allocating your budget accordingly can help you make the most of your trip while staying within your daily limit.
It is also important to factor in the cost of food and any necessary vehicle maintenance or repairs. By cooking your own meals and packing food for the road, you can reduce your food expenses. Additionally, ensuring your vehicle is in good condition before embarking on your trip can help minimise the risk of breakdowns or other issues that could incur costly repairs.
Finally, remember that your budget may need to be flexible, as unexpected costs can arise during your trip. By allowing for some wiggle room in your daily budget, you can ensure that you have a comfortable buffer to cover any surprises without sacrificing your enjoyment of the journey.
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You can drive in either direction
Driving around Australia is often called "The Big Lap", and it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The journey circumnavigates the mainland of Australia, offering diverse landscapes, from wetlands and deserts to rainforests and snowy highlands. The route you take is ultimately up to you, and you can drive in either direction—clockwise or anticlockwise.
The Big Lap typically follows Australia's Highway 1, which forms a "ring road" around the country, connecting seven of Australia's eight capital cities: Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Perth, and Adelaide. A separate section of Highway 1 hops across the Bass Strait to Hobart, Tasmania. The total distance around this route is approximately 14,500 kilometres, but if you add detours to Darwin and other off-highway destinations, the distance can increase to a minimum of 15,500 kilometres.
Most people who take on The Big Lap are not in a race, and the journey can take anywhere from three months to a year or more. The fastest recorded lap of Australia is held by the "Highway One To Hell" team, who completed the journey in 5 days, 13 hours, and 43 minutes. However, they stayed on Highway 1 for the entirety of their trip, and it's unlikely they saw much beyond the highways.
When planning your trip, it's important to consider factors such as seasons, weather patterns, your departure location, travel timeframe, budget, and travel style. The best time to do The Big Lap is between June and February, avoiding the wet season in the tropical north of Australia, which can make roads impassable.
To save money, consider camping options, as there are thousands of free or inexpensive campsites around the country, ranging from roadside stops to national parks. Additionally, choosing an economical vehicle and being self-sufficient can help keep costs down.
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Frequently asked questions
The distance to travel around Australia by road is about 14,500 km if you follow Highway 1, also known as "The Big Lap". The total distance can increase to 15,500 km or more if you take detours to places like Darwin or other destinations off the highway. Some Big Lap travellers have covered over 30,000 km or even 46,600 km by the time they factor in side trips and backtracking.
The minimum time to drive around Australia is about three months, but this means you'll be spending a lot of your trip driving. A more relaxed pace would be to plan for a six-month trip or even a year or more to fully enjoy the experience. The world record for the fastest lap of Australia is held by a group called Highway One To Hell, who completed the trip in 5 days, 13 hours and 43 minutes.
The best time to do the Big Lap of Australia is between June and February. The tropical north of Australia is subject to two seasons: the wet season (November to April) and the dry season (May to October). To avoid impassable roads due to heavy rainfall, it's best to travel through the north between June and September. You can then travel through the rest of Australia between September and February to enjoy the cool coastal climate.
An economical vehicle is ideal for driving around Australia, as fuel is the biggest expense. Having a vehicle that you can sleep in, such as a campervan or RV, can also save on accommodation costs. However, this may limit your access to free roadside stops.
It's possible to travel around Australia by car for $100 per day, but this requires careful budgeting and taking advantage of free camping opportunities. The average daily budget for a road trip around Australia was $72 AUD per person in 2020 and $78 AUD in 2021.
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