From the essentials to pack to the seasons to prioritize for your trip, here’s a complete guide to an epic Australian campervan road trip.
Which motorhome to choose?
There are different types of campervans, from compact models for two, to options with 6 berths, a kitchen and a bathroom. So you need to have an idea of how much space you will need and your ability to drive a larger vehicle. If you plan to go off-road in remote areas, you will prefer a 4×4. If you’re staying in basic campgrounds, like those in some national parks, a built-in bathroom will come in handy.
Driving license
To rent a motorhome in Australia, you must be over 18 years old, or even 21 years old for certain agencies, and have held a B license for more than a year. As the prerequisites are not the same in all agencies, contact them in advance to check. You will be required to obtain an international driving license. Be careful; in Australia, we drive on the left! The steering wheel is on the right, and the controls are reversed. Rest assured, there are automatic vehicles that will make driving easier for you.
Is it possible to return your motorhome somewhere other than the rental location?
Most agencies will let you book a one-way ticket. Just make sure you plan a convenient stopping point for the end of your trip. One-way rentals generally incur additional fees.
When to Leave?
You can drive on the roads from Melbourne to Adelaide and Western Australia all year round. However, by leaving in spring, in October and November in the southern hemisphere, and in autumn, March and April, you will benefit from the sun and milder temperatures. In summer, the mercury can reach around 45°C in both the east and west of Australia. To avoid crowds, check the school holiday schedule on Australia.com.
Where to park for a night?
Rules regarding overnight stops are strict for motorhomes. So stay in designated rest areas, campsites, and national parks. Apps like CamperMate will allow you to locate the best available places to park on your route and find electricity, drinking water, and washing and laundry facilities.
Any advice for staying off the roads?
Drive at a moderate speed and watch out for potential obstacles such as stones or deep ruts. Lower your tire pressure for better grip if you drive on very sandy roads. If you find yourself stuck, try backing up or carefully digging around the wheels to clear the obstruction. If this does not work, call emergency services on 000.
How to travel safely in remote areas?;
Good preparation is essential. It can often take hours to see someone in these areas, and the network is sometimes capricious. Fill your jerrycan with drinking water at each stop and plan ahead for fuel fill-ups or electric recharges (for thermal vehicles, see petrolspy.com). and for electric vehicles, see Electromaps.com. Check your tires and your camper’s coolant level every 300 miles. If you break down in a remote area, do not stray far from your vehicle, you will be more visible this way.
Should we really be wary of snakes and spiders?
Serious bite-related injuries are rare. Shake out your shoes and sheets before slipping in and carry a flashlight at night to avoid unpleasant surprises. If you are exploring nature, obtain a specialized snake bite kit from a pharmacy as a precaution.
What should I bring?
RV rental companies typically provide essentials like linens and cooking utensils, but you’ll have to pay extra to get access to things like camp chairs and portable grills. Rent a reliable navigation tool like a GPS and consider renting a satellite phone if you’re heading into the Outback, where the network is unstable.
Mark