Roadtripping or Driving a Camper Around Australia

The epic road trip, be it by car or by camper van is probably always going to be the Australian one. The place is huge, and the landscapes so different from one area to the next that you’ll never get bored driving through it, stopping off along the way. There are also many different road trip routes to take, but the key to road-tripping Australia is not to take on too much. It’s a huge country and petrol is quite expensive. You’ll have a more relaxed time if you pick a single area of Australia to explore. Tip: You can check petrol prices and look for the cheapest on http://motormouth.com.au/

The time this will take you depends on your route, but I’d be tempted not to rush, because come on, are you going to get the chance to do this again in your life? Probably not, so enjoy it, and make it worthwhile.

Despite the fun stuff, there a few points you need to bear in mind:

1) Check out your driving license requirements. For the most part, you can use your own driving license for a specified amount of time in Australia. That being said, do check this, as it varies from country to country, depending on where your driving license was issued. Always carry your license and insurance papers with you, and your passport.

2) Drive on the left!

3) Check driving rules and regulations, as they vary from state to state.

4) Decide on your route. This will need serious pre-planning, because it’s not advisable to just head off without an idea of where you’re going or how you’re getting there. Like I mentioned before, there are many routes you can take, and these are designed to take you through the most scenic areas. The most famous, and probably the one I would certainly choose, is the Great Ocean Road. There is also a hugely popular route through the Red Centre, as well as the more rustic, rugged routes in the Northern Territories. All these routes will take you past towns where you can find somewhere to lay your head, as well as campsites where you can pull up your camper van, or even put up a tent. Don’t just take camp anywhere however, and always head to a licensed site.

5) Remember your supplies! Heat plays a part here, so make sure you have plenty of water, and a basic first aid kit, in-car phone charger, and emergency numbers, in case you need them. Again, carry all your paperwork, including license, insurance and passport, and keep them safe.

6) Only rent a car or camper van from a reputable company, and always check out the vehicle before you agree to anything, as well as getting in depth information on insurance. Make sure any scratches or dints are noted on the contract before you leave with the vehicle.

7) Think about security. Make sure you take a locked box or something equally as secure to store your valuables in, such as your money etc. Never leave your car unlocked, or with windows down.

8) Keep someone informed about where you’re going. You can get good tracking apps for this kind of thing, or alternatively, just make sure someone knows your route, and maybe check in once a day.

All that’s left to do is take to the open road – believe me, you’re in for a serious treat. Charge up that camera, and clear that memory card!