Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is a large country with a vast network of well-maintained roads, making it a great destination for a road trip. There are several options for travelling around Australia by car, including renting a car or campervan, buying a used car, or ridesharing with other travellers. Driving yourself gives you the freedom to choose your route and stop wherever you like, allowing you to explore parts of the country that you might not see on public transport. However, it's important to keep in mind that driving long distances in Australia can take a significant amount of time, and some roads in more remote areas may not be suitable for all vehicles.
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What You'll Learn
Renting a car or campervan
When renting a car, consider the type of vehicle that suits your trip. For instance, if you plan to travel in the outback, check with the hiring company to ensure the car is suitable for rough terrain. Additionally, be mindful of the rental agreement terms. Some companies may restrict night driving due to the risk of wildlife crossing the road, and you may not be covered in case of an accident.
If you are renting for a longer period, it might be more cost-effective to purchase a used car or campervan. Websites like Gumtree, hostel message boards, or Facebook groups such as "Backpacker Campervans for Sale Australia" offer great deals. You can then sell the vehicle to another traveller when your trip ends.
To make your trip even more enjoyable, stay connected with a portable 4G Wi-Fi device like Skyroam, which will keep you online and help you find your next destination or a camping spot for the night.
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Planning your route
There are several factors to consider when planning your route for a road trip around Australia. Firstly, decide on the type of vehicle you will be using. You can choose to rent a car, campervan, or 4WD, or purchase a used car or van if you plan to stay longer. The type of vehicle you choose will depend on your budget, the length of your trip, and your preferred level of comfort and convenience. For example, a campervan offers more space and amenities, but may be more expensive to rent or purchase.
Next, consider your starting and ending points, as well as any specific destinations or landmarks you want to include along the way. Some popular road trip routes in Australia include the East Coast route from Cairns to Sydney, the central desert region including Uluru and Broken Hill, and the coastal drive from Melbourne to Adelaide. You can also look for suggested routes and itineraries online or through road trip planner tools.
Keep in mind that Australia is a large country, and driving distances between destinations can be significant. For example, the drive from Cairns to Sydney is approximately 3,500 km and can take up to 5 weeks. Plan your trip duration accordingly, and consider combining driving with other forms of transport such as domestic flights or coach travel for longer distances.
When planning your route, it is also important to consider the road conditions and any restrictions on your rental vehicle. The roads in the Australian outback, for example, can be rough and may not be suitable for all vehicles. Check with your rental company to ensure your vehicle is equipped for the routes you plan to take. Additionally, be aware of any kilometer restrictions or time restrictions, especially when driving at night in remote areas due to the risk of wildlife crossing the road.
Finally, stay connected and informed during your trip. Consider investing in a portable Wi-Fi device or an Australian phone plan to access apps and websites that can help you find campsites, plan your route, and stay in communication with others.
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Where to stay overnight
When travelling around Australia by car, there are a few options for where to stay overnight.
If you're looking for flexibility and the ability to stay in more remote locations, camping is a great option. There are many campsites around Australia, both free and paid, that can be easily found using apps like WikiCamps. This option allows you to stay close to your chosen destination and avoid the hassle of finding accommodation in more populated areas. It is important to research and plan your campsite spots beforehand to avoid being stranded without a place to stay for the night.
Alternatively, if you prefer more comfort and amenities, there are plenty of accommodation options available in cities and towns. Booking.com is recommended for finding cheap rates on guesthouses and hotels. Hostelworld is another option, offering the biggest inventory and best deals on hostels.
For those on a budget, renting a car or campervan and sharing the costs with other travellers can make your trip more affordable. Websites like Gumtree, hostel message boards, and Facebook groups such as "Backpacker Campervans for Sale Australia" offer great deals on vehicles. You can also find ride-sharing opportunities on these platforms, allowing you to split fuel costs and make new friends.
Lastly, when travelling long distances, rest stops and service stations are available at regular intervals along Australia's well-maintained road network. These can provide a convenient and quick option for an overnight stay, especially if you're looking to save on accommodation costs.
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Driving in the outback
Driving in the Australian Outback can be a liberating experience, but it's not without its challenges. Here are some essential things to keep in mind for a safe and enjoyable journey:
Vehicle Choice and Preparation
The roads in the Outback can be rough and unsuitable for some vehicles. A 4WD is highly recommended, especially if you plan to tackle famous outback dirt tracks like the Gibb River Road in Western Australia. If you're renting a 4WD, ensure you know how to engage the four-wheel drive. Check with the hiring company that your chosen vehicle is suitable for Outback conditions. It's also a good idea to carry two jacks and two spare tyres, as well as a complete set of tools.
Driving Conditions and Hazards
The Outback's roads can be very different from what you might expect. Instead of European-style motorways, you'll often encounter single-lane dual carriageways. Unsealed dirt or gravel roads are common and can be dusty, corrugated, and challenging to navigate. Visibility can be poor, especially when overtaking vehicles kicking up dust or when facing an oncoming road train (trucks with multiple trailers). Always give road trains plenty of space, and be cautious when overtaking. Driving after dark is not recommended due to reduced visibility and the risk of hitting wildlife, especially kangaroos.
Navigation and Planning
Maps can be deceiving, and distances in the Outback are often much longer than they appear. Plan your routes carefully, and always check road conditions before leaving a major town. The Bureau of Meteorology provides up-to-date weather warnings, which are crucial for avoiding dust storms, rainstorms, and extreme heat. Remember that many Outback roads traverse private property, so stay on designated roads and respect gates—the golden rule is to leave them as you found them.
Essential Supplies
Carry plenty of drinking water, as well as an extra container of fuel. Diesel is often more readily available than petrol in remote areas, and some Aboriginal communities sell Opal fuel instead of petrol, which is usable in unleaded vehicles. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and a well-stocked first aid kit.
Communication and Company
Always let someone know where you're going and when you expect to arrive. Stay connected with a local phone plan or a portable 4G wi-fi device. Consider finding travel companions through ridesharing, either through websites like Gumtree or Couchsurfing or by checking hostel bulletin boards.
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Car rental agreements
When renting a car in Australia, you will need to sign a rental agreement. This is a legally binding contract between you and the rental company. It is important to read the contract carefully before signing it and to clarify any unclear points with the rental company.
A car rental agreement typically includes provisions such as a clear description of the vehicle, the duration of the hire, what happens if the vehicle is lost or damaged, payment terms, and other important protections and limitations. Here are some specific examples of what to expect:
- A clear description of the vehicle, including the make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
- The start and end dates of the rental period.
- Details of authorised drivers.
- Fuel requirements, such as the type of fuel to be used and the requirement to return the vehicle with a specified level of fuel.
- Smoking policies, with sanitation fees or fines for non-compliance.
- Insurance and liability details, including coverage in case of accidents or damage, and any applicable administration fees.
- Vehicle recovery costs, including towing and payment for lost rental days.
- Requirements for returning the vehicle to a specific depot and potential extra fees for returning to a different depot.
- Policies regarding the use of toll roads and any associated charges.
- Any restrictions on driving the vehicle off-road or in certain areas.
It is important to understand your rights and obligations under the rental agreement and to be aware of any local laws or regulations that may apply.
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Frequently asked questions
You can either rent a car or campervan, or buy a used car or van from locals or backpackers leaving the country. Websites like Gumtree, hostel message boards, or the Facebook group Backpacker Campervans for Sale Australia offer great deals on used vehicles.
It is important to stay online to know where you need to go next. You can get a Skyroam, a portable 4G wi-fi device that doesn’t need a sim card. Research your campsite spots beforehand using apps like WikiCamps. If renting a car, be aware of the terms of your rental agreement, including any restrictions on driving at night due to the risk of wildlife crossing the road.
Australia has a vast network of well-maintained roads, but due to the country's large size, flying may be the only viable option for long-distance travel. For example, it would take 32 hours to drive from Melbourne to Cairns, compared to a 3-hour flight. Domestic flights in Australia are reasonably affordable, with prices often being under $100 AUD if you book in advance. You can also travel around Australia by bus, coach, train, or ferry.
