australia road trip cost

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AUSTRALIA , Budget Travel Ideas , Oceania

How much does an australian road trip really cost.

Well, of course, the answer to the question of how much an Australia road trip really costs, is how long is a piece of string?!

Because, depending how long you travel for, where you travel to, how far you travel, what style of travel you like and what type of vehicle and set-up up you’ve got, the costs are going to vary wildly on your Australian road trip!

And I know that, because I’ve done it!

Yes almost 1 year travelling from Sydney to Perth, working along the way, I’ve definitely road tripped a lot of the land Down Under and seen how wildly different peoples’ way of doing this are.

But let’s be clear, I made this journey when I was poor – very poor already and even poorer after kitting out a Land Rover for the adventure – so my Australian road trip style was about as budget as you can get!

And that’s still not as budget as I would have liked because Australia is expensive and there’s no way of getting around this.

Perhaps this article should have been called “how cheaply can you really road trip Australia?” because I tried, I really tried to keep it low.

So here’s the full breakdown to give you some benchmark around the minimum you can expect your Australian road trip cost to be…

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Related australia road trip posts.

• Coffs Harbour to Brisbane Itinerary
• Brisbane to Cairns Itinerary
• Cairns to Darwin Itinerary
• Darwin to Broome Itinerary
• Broome to Perth Itinerary

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My Australian Road Trip

Although I had previously travelled in and around Australia a lot, for the sake of this post, I’m going to be talking about the Aussie road trip adventure I undertook when I packed up my life on the east coast, quit my job and the rental lease I had and embarked on, with my partner at the time, a big 4wd budget road trip.

We travelled in an old Land Rover, which we’d fitted with a roof rack and a rooftop tent among a whole heap of other modifications. We kept the backseats of the vehicle in place, and all our possessions, as well as our camp kitchen, were placed in the trunk / boot / backdoor area which we fitted with drawers and shelves.

The aim was to keep costs down by being able to sleep in / on the vehicle, as well as being able to travel anywhere as a self-compact unit, without having to worry about towing things or going off road / off-grid.

This huge, mammoth journey began in Sydney, and took us up the coast of New South Wales, into Queensland, up to Cape York, across to Darwin, then to Broome and finally down the West Coast, actually as far as Albany in south WA, before we backtracked and settled in the most awesome place we’d encountered on the way – Fremantle – taking us up to an estimated total of 21,230km.

By this point, we had largely run out of money and were tired of living in a 4wd after almost a year of doing so.

During these 12 months, we had paused our journey and worked along the way numerous times, with the biggest stop being in Magnetic Island for 3 months, where we managed a guesthouse.

When we weren’t stopped and working, we moved fast, travelling great distances and driving at least a bit most days as we tried to stay ahead of the weather. In an average week we drove 817km!

By this I mean, we desperately wanted to catch the cooler, dry season up north, which runs largely from May to September and then get out of there before cyclone season began in November.

Once you hit the tropics in Queensland – largely by the time you get to Rockhampton / Yeppoon – you actually realise that it’s a heck of a long distance to cover until you are spat out the other end of the tropics between Carnarvon and Exmouth… and you better get your foot down!

If you want to see a lot as we did too, then you’ve got to cover the distance in Australia because, as you probably know, and especially up north, there can be a whole of nothing in between!

We also picked up other travellers at various points (a reason we left the backseats of the Land Rover in, rather than give ourselves more space) to split fuel costs with them, which helped stretch our budget a little bit more.

So that’s the trip – a big 4wd extravaganza roughly from Sydney to Perth – and here’s how much it cost…

The Overall Budget

The budget I kept when trying to calculate how much an Australian road trip costs, was based on 2 people, trying to do everything as cheaply as possible (include eating… or not!) and living full time out of a Land Rover fitted with a rooftop tent so we could free camp as much as possible.

Prices are given in Australian Dollars and costs accounted for in the budget include:

• Groceries & Food
• Camping Fees & Accommodation Costs
• Insurance & Vehicle Registration
• Coffee & Drinks
• Tours, Activities & Entertainment
• National Park Permits & Attraction Entrance Fees
• Car Ferries

Vehicle Parts / Hardware and Repairs / Services

This budget doesn’t include the amount it cost us to buy or set up the Land Rover, which it must be said was considerable, even though we fitted it ourselves and bought many things on sale or second hand on Gumtree .

It also doesn’t include the fact that we left for our road trip well stocked with gear, cleaning products, clothes, equipment, supplies, tools and spares. The cost of buying all this in advance definitely saved us money on the road, but again were part of a significant initial outlay I’ve not included here.

However, the budget does include some of the repair work we had to do along the way, as I think this is quite typical of long, Australian road trips.

The budget also doesn’t include the months we were stopped in one place working, it only includes the time we were actually on the road, which was 26 weeks – exactly 6 months.

During this time, as I mentioned, we moved quite fast, trying to beat the weather largely.

Obviously, if you stay in places for a long period of time your costs are likely to be lower – mostly because you won’t be outlaying on the fuel – but it will take you longer to get around Australia, making your road trip costs greater in total too – it just depends how you balance it out.

So the total cost for 2 people, road tripping Australia for 26 weeks in NSW, QLD, NT and WA was… $21,513 AUD.

That’s just under $1 per km.. not bad!

This is obviously shared between 2 people, but it’s worth remembering that even if you are travelling alone, the big budget items of fuel and vehicle repairs / parts / services will be the same.

You can see the full breakdown of costs at the end of this article…

Your Australia Road Trip Budget

As I said at the start of this article, this is the absolute minimum I think you should set aside, as I honestly don’t think we could have done it cheaper!

We free camped a heck of a lot, we picked up other travellers to keep costs low, we never ate or drunk out in cafes and restaurants (cooking for ourselves and stocking up cheaply in major towns) and we took hardly any fancy tours or visited expensive attractions, preferring to hike, swim, relax in nature and spend time in national parks away from towns where we could.

The blog also began growing during this trip and I started getting some free accommodation and excursions, which aren’t included in the budget either.

What all of this means is that you should probably budget more!

Depending on your travel style, eating / drinking out, staying in caravan parks, enjoying guided excursions and paying entrance fees to attractions will drastically hike your budget.

Even if you plan to do it as cheaply as possible like us, remember that you will want to spend some nights in caravan parks – even if it is to charge your batteries (both metaphorically and literally) and you will want some nights out for entertainment and fun.

Factor these in!

If you don’t have an old vehicle like us, or you have lady luck on your side, the area you may spend less than we did is in vehicle parts, repairs and services… but more about this later!

5 ESSENTIAL PACKING ITEMS FOR AUSTRALIA

#1 Good Camera – You will be pretty much snapping non-stop in Australia and will need a good camera to do this gorgeous country justice. I highly recommend the Sony A6000 , which I use for all my travels and love, not least because it’s light, compact and robust!

#2 Good Walking Shoes – There will be a lot of walking in Australia – from cities to national parks. Make sure your feet are comfortable therefore with a pair of New Balance Trainers . Perfect for stylish strolling, I love mine.

#3 Good Guidebook – I’m still a massive fan of the Lonely Planet Guidebooks and do think their Australia edition is well put together.

#4 Good Water Bottle – Travelling in hot old Australia can be thirsty work, so make sure you have a metal water bottle that you can refill as you go, because tap water is drinkable… and free!

#5 Good Sun Hat – And there’s no denying you’ll need a good sun hat for protection in Australia too. In my opinion you can’t go past this Hello Sunshine one, which is both gorgeous and ideal for keeping the rays off your face.

Fuel was our third biggest single cost, amounting to roughly $4,350 AUD across 26 weeks at an average of 817 km/week.

Obviously, this cost will fluctuate largely based on the distance you will travel, where you travel, the weight of your vehicle and what you may / may not be towing, the vehicle’s fuel consumption rate, whether you use unleaded or diesel and the state of the roads as well as the humidity and weather in general.

Our laden-down diesel TD5 Land Rover was certainly not the most economical or environmentally efficient vehicle. It guzzled more juice in the humidity of the tropics, and the remote parts of Australia we travelled did not lend themselves to cheap fuel prices!

We did save money however by using the Coles / Woolworths discount coupons wherever we could and by picking up other travellers to help us with fuel costs too.

You could save money on fuel by carrying less weight onboard, having a more efficient vehicle, travelling less distance, driving on sealed roads in more populated areas of Australia where fuel is cheaper due to greater concentration of, and therefore competition among, service stations.

Groceries and Food

Groceries and food was our second biggest single expense, coming in at $5,491 AUD for 2 people over 6 months.

As I mentioned before this was all grocery shopping – we never ate out during our road trip and I wasn’t drinking during the trip either, so there’s barely any alcohol costs here .

I was a vegan during the trip, so there are no meat / fish / dairy / egg costs for 1 person here either.

That said, we were / are both fanatical about healthy eating and so we never bought the cheapest packaged food available – instead opting for lots of fruit and veg, nuts and seeds, whole grains, organic pulses and health foods such as tahini and organic peanut butter.

This means our grocery budget wasn’t as cheap if you live off white sliced bread, baked beans and processed cheese, compared to avocados, sourdough and vine-ripened tomatoes!

Not drinking alcohol however saved us a lot of money.

So did cooking for ourselves, largely facilitated by the fact we had a fridge and gas cookers onboard with us.

To save money, we would normally shop for a whole week when we visited a large town with a decent supermarket and then not go to the shop again for 7 days to avoid the temptation to unnecessarily squander our budget.

We designed the fit-out of our Land Rover with this in mind, allowing a lot of place for dry and fresh food storage! We had a huge 75l fridge, which we bought second hand for $500 AUD and was the best decision ever!

I honestly don’t think we could have spent less on food short of eating less (not possible for us!) and buying poorer quality food (also not possible!)

Camping Fees and Accommodation

This was the fourth biggest expense at $1,965 AUD.

Over 6 months for 2 people, that’s nothing! Compare that to the price of your rent or mortgage!

Of course the cost of the rooftop tent, which came in at around $6000 if you include the roof rack and awning (which we got at a bulk price on sale) is not included in this price, but still, this initial outlay saved as a lot of money.

We were determined to free camp as much as we could to keep costs down on our Australian road trip, as we figured we couldn’t lower the fuel prices or the food costs more than we did, but we could opt to rough it more and spend less on accommodation.

Using the Wikicamps app (which cost a bargain amount of $8 AUD), we found many great free camps, especially in the Northern Territory and saved a ton of cash this away.

We could do this, of course, because we were totally self-sufficient in terms of our vehicle and set up – we even had a solar-panel and inverter on board to charge up our electrical devices.

Obviously, as we travelled the more crowded east coast and then again the more populated areas of the west coast, the amount of free camps reduced and the price of caravan parks went up.

This is also true if you travel the north in high season (June – Sept) when the caravan parks are full and quoting premium rates!

Travelling in low or shoulder season, travelling in more remote parts and free camping as much as possible will help you keep your accommodation and camping fees low.

Do remember that in some places like Broome or Uluru or Darwin, for example, there aren’t any free camps for miles around and you will have to fork out for a caravan park at the least.

It’s also worth remembering that at least once a week, you might also want to splash out on a stay in a caravan park, if only to use the laundry facilities, the wifi, the pool and the power!

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Insurance and Vehicle Registration

We got our insurance through RACQ and also bought their top Ultra Care Roadside Assistance package , which is a one-off annual subscription.

Given the value of what we were carrying on aboard (our whole lives!) we saw this as a good investment… and it was!

When we broke down in the Territory or needed spare parts shipped to us, the Ultra Care Roadside Assistance package paid its way and more!

Customer service was excellent and I couldn’t fault them.

If have insurance with RACQ, you can get a discount on the Roadside Assistance too.

Overall, we spent $1219 AUD on insurance and vehicle registration over the course of a year.

Other Costs

Our other costs, which included coffee and drinks, the equipment we needed to buy, tours, activities & entertainment, national park permits and attraction fees as well as laundry and some car ferries we needed to take, were low for us.

I’ve explained why in the sections above, but basically we didn’t spend much on these items, limiting them where we could, and the total for all of them over 26 weeks was $1714 AUD.

Ha ha, well what do you know!

The largest single cost during the Australian road trip we undertook was on vehicle parts, repairs and services we had to do!

This is what happens when you travel thousands of kms along unsealed, badly corrugated roads in an overweight old vehicle.

In the end we spent $6774 AUD in this area.

NEARLY A THIRD OF OUR WHOLE BUDGET!

To be fair, some of this was on car fluids, new bulbs, bolts and screws, car washing and new tyres – all of these you are likely to need to replenish during any long Australian road trip.

However some were major expenses, like when we blew a hole in radiator in the middle of remote Arnhem Land and had to be towed for hundreds of kms, before having to wait in Darwin for a week for new parts to be shipped from South Australia.

We also had to replace a gearbox in Karratha .

If you have a Toyota, repairs and parts will be a lot easier and cheaper, because they are way more common out here than British cars, but it’s always going to cost you a lot when things go wrong and accidents happen!

You should always budget some extra cash for these, especially if you plan to be in remote areas a lot where the price of mechanics is eye-watering enough before you even start factoring in the parts!

Hopefully you won’t have to use that money on boring things like repairs and can save it for more fun things instead, but either way, having an emergency kitty is definitely a good idea for your Australian road trip costs.

The Budget Breakdown

And so here’s how our final Australian road trip costs looked:

And so there you have it, the answer to how much an Australian road trip really costs.

Or as I like to think this article shows you “how cheaply can you really road trip Australia?”

And the answer, if you don’t breakdown, is pretty freaking cheap!

Have you road-tripped Australia?

How much did you spend?

Join the discussion in the comments below…

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Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ How Much Does An Australian Road Trip Really Cost? ”

Very helpful blog, As a traveller I always love to read travel related blog. Thanks for giving us such a precious information.

Thank you 🙂

This is terrific. Thank you! I could have warned you about the Landrover. I had one. Love them or hate them, your hand is always in your pocket for repairs. We spent a week in Yass, NSW, waiting for parts, a decade or two ago. I’ve yet to travel to Western Australia….on my bucket list. I’m a shocker for budgeting, so your article is a great help.

Ha ha yes, once you’ve driven a Landrover in Australia, this info becomes quite clear! Glad you find the article useful and enjoy it when you get to WA – it’s wonderful. Steph 🙂

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The Cost of Travel in Australia: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

I’m so excited to be sharing how much it costs to travel in Australia. Not only is this country home for me (I moved to Melbourne in 2021!), but I’ve also spent a significant amount of time travelling across its beautiful landscapes.

There was the lengthy road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne, the two weeks I spent hiking in Tasmania, the week I dedicated to snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, and even the five times I’ve tackled the Great Ocean Road (what can I say? I love it!).

My partner’s family live in Melbourne, and before moving here to join them, we used to spend a month in this vibrant country every year, for over a decade, celebrating Christmas Down Under and visiting as many hipster cafes as possible.

Needless to say, I’ve seen a hell of a lot of this country over the years and have visited on every budget imaginable: as a backpacker with absolutely no spare cash, as a solo traveller on a mid-range budget, and as part of couple on a romantic luxury vacation.

In other words, I’m perfectly placed to share exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Australia! Whether you’ll be living the Working Holiday dream and driving a beaten-up campervan along the East Coast, taking that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Oz post-retirement, or simply desperate to make the most of your two-week vacation to Australia, I have you covered.

Today, I’m going to be sharing exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Australia.

The Cost of Accommodation in Australia

You can visit Australia on any budget, from  a $40 a night hostel in Cairns  that’s highly-rated on Booking to the spectacular $500 a night Four Seasons Sydney , which offers up the best views of the Sydney Opera House in the city.

(Those prices are in AUD, by the way. 1 AUD is equal to 0.60 USD/EUR, or 0.53 GBP.)

But first things first; we have to get this out of the way. Yes, Australia is expensive. It’s incredibly expensive, in fact. And — like everywhere else in the world — prices have only skyrocketed as the pandemic has receded.

Despite this, there is still good  value to be found. Because whether you’re travelling as a solo backpacker on a shoestring, as part of a couple on a mid-range budget, or as a family looking for a little luxury, value is the one thing you’re going to be looking for. That doesn’t necessarily mean cheap, of course, but it does mean staying in some incredible places.

So let’s take a look at accommodation. To start with, I’m going to cover the cheapest way to travel across the country.

If you’re on the tightest of tight budgets, there are several options that’ll land you with  free accommodation  while you’re in the country.  Courchsurfing  helps you to connect with locals by sleeping on spare sofas in their homes. It doesn’t cost a penny to do so and is a fantastic way to gain an insight into Australian daily life away from the tourists. There are over 300,000 hosts in Australia, so you shouldn’t find it too hard to connect with somebody likeminded.

Housesitting  is a more upmarket way to avoid paying for accommodation, as it’s aimed at mid-range and luxury travellers. You’ll be looking after homes (and usually pets) while their owners are on holiday, and the houses can be extremely luxurious (I’ve had friends housesit a castle before!). This option works best if you don’t have fixed travel plans, as you’ll be agreeing to dates that the owners set. It’s always worth taking a look at the site, though, just in case somebody’s vacation dates happen to coincide with yours; there’s usually several hundred housesits to browse through in Australia at any one time.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you could take a look at  WorldPackers in Australia , where you’ll be able to volunteer for locals in exchange for food and board. There are some seriously cool options available on the site right now, from helping out at a local surf school to lending a hand at building an eco-sanctuary in the rainforest. Readers of this site get a $10 discount for WorldPackers with the promo code  neverendingfootsteps .

If you’re not looking to travel for free, though and just want a clean and comfortable room to sleep in, there are plenty of great budget options, too.

The Best Hostels in Australia

One of the most affordable ways to explore Australia is by staying in a hostel.

During my first visits to Australia, I was in my early twenties and living the backpacker dream; attempting to save as much money as possible. I was impressed by the quality of the hostels in Australia, as well as how many there were to choose from. This country is practically a mandatory stop on backpackers’ round-the-world trips, so there’s cheap accommodation aplenty in every tourist destination.

Here’s some of my favourite spots in the country:

• My favourite hostel in  Sydney  is easily the epic Sydney Harbour YHA — just wait until you see the views of the Sydney Opera House from the rooftop terrace! It’s in a perfect location for exploring the city, the staff are amazing, and breakfast is included. You’ll pay $70 per night for a dorm bed, or $200 a night for a private room with en-suite.
• In  Melbourne , you can’t get better than  the Space Hotel — I recommend my friends here whenever they come to visit! Here, dorm rooms are priced at just  $65 a night and private rooms are $160 per night . In a town where most hostels are rated poorly, this well-reviewed spot is a no-brainer.
• You’ll likely be heading to  Brisbane  while you’re in Australia, and if so, I recommend  Breeze Lodge , which has dorm rooms for  $55 night . The staff here are wonderful and really helped me make the most of my time in town. The rooms were spotless, the vibes immaculate, and the beds comfortable. You can’t ask for more than that!
• The Gold Coast  is home to  the Surf Inn , which is one of my favourite spots in the country. Here, dorms are priced at  $65 a night . No wonder it’s the best-rated budget accommodation in town. What I loved most about this place is its lovely swimming pool, the fantastic free breakfast, and its close proximity to the beach. Truly, this is one of the best value spots in all of Australia.
• I’m a massive fan of  Perth . I chose to stay in  Spinners Hostel  during my most recent visit and came away so impressed with the rooms. Not only is it inexpensive at  $50 a night  for a dorm, but the beds are comfortable, the rooms modern and spacious, and the location incredible (I love the Northbridge neighbourhood so much!)

Overall, then, you can see that you can expect to spend around  $60 a night  for dorms in Australia, and around  $160 a night  for a private double room in a hostel. See what I mean about Australia being a little bit pricey?

Well, now it’s time to move on to the cost of hotels in Australia. Because what if you’re not a budget traveller and just want to stay in a lovely, well-reviewed hotel or guesthouse that’s good value for money and has all the things you need from a place to lay your head? I’ve got you!

My 2024 Recommendations for Hotels in Australia

It’s time to start looking at hotels.

In this section of my budget breakdowns, I always like to share my personal recommendations for accommodation within a country. That way, you get to browse through my favourite properties in order to make your trip planning easier, while also gaining an insight into how much you can expect to spend. And trust me: I spend hours researching each and every hotel that I stay in; I know which places offer the best value in Australia.

My biggest tip? When you head to  Booking.com  to find a hotel, ignore the default results that are shown whenever you search for properties in a destination. That initial list is simply a rundown of all of the hotels that pay Booking the highest commission[!], some of which have some pretty poor write-ups. Instead, click the “sort by” dropdown menu above the search results and choose to sort the properties by “Top Reviewed”. That way, you’ll be able to see which hotels are actually the best option for you.

All that to say, as I’ve been roaming around Australia, I’ve been making a note of the best accommodation in every city, putting in the hard work so you don’t have to. Here’s where I recommend staying (these are predominantly mid-range budget options, in excellent locations with the best reviews). Again, all prices are in AUD:

Sydney: Medusa Hotel ( $230 per night ) — Located in one of my favourite Sydney neighbourhoods — the eclectic Darlinghurst — Medusa hotel is close to so many of the best restaurants and cafes in the city’s inner east. You’re a 30 minutes walk from the CBD (and many of the tourist attractions) so you’ll pay a little less for accommodation than you would if you were right in the heart of the city; an added bonus. On top of that, the property itself is super-quiet and peaceful, tastefully decorated, and with a lovely courtyard. I stay here every time I visit Sydney.

Melbourne: ZaGame’s House ( $260 a night ) — Fun fact! When the pandemic struck, I was in Melbourne as the city went into lockdown. Without a home, I spent nine months living out of hotels and Airbnb apartments, trying so many different Melburnian neighbourhoods on for size. In other words, I know this city, and I know the best places to stay. I love ZaGame’s House for its location — right in the heart of the incredible Carlton neighbourhood, where you’ll find the Queen Vic Market (my favourite food market in the world!) and still be within walking distance of the main attractions in town. You’ve got beautifully designed rooms, amazing staff, a well-equipped gym, and one of the most comfortable beds ever. This is one of my favourite places in Melbourne.

Brisbane: The Inchcolm by Ovolo ( $275 a night ) — Take a look at the photos of the Inchcolm and tell me you don’t want to immediately book a stay there! The decorations and artwork are gorgeous, and the rooms are clean, spacious, and so comfortable. For me, though, the main reason to stay at the Inchcolm is the phenomenal staff members! No matter whether you’re looking for travel advice or a cocktail recommendation in the bar, they’re only too happy to drop everything and help you out. Throw in free access to the Fitness First gym across the street and you’ve got yourself everything you need for your time in Brisbane!

Gold Coast: Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise ( $235 a night ) — To me, staying on the Gold Coast is synonymous with being in a high-rise hotel, gazing down on a stretch of pristine white sand that seems to go on forever. Well the Meriton Suites in Surfers Paradise offers exactly that and I couldn’t stop swooning over its views. You’re located just steps away from the beach, the rooms are clean and spacious, with fully-equipped kitchens, and you’ve got access to an indoor and outdoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, gym… the list goes on. This place is an absolute gem!

Cairns: Travellers Oasis ( $130 a night ) — A cheaper option for Cairns, but when the accommodation is so great, staying here is a no-brainer. Travellers Oasis has the best outdoor area, with a jungle-esque garden area, access to a BBQ, and a refreshing swimming pool (100% needed in the sweltering humidity of Cairns!) Rooms are well-cleaned and comfortable, with air conditioning to help keep you cool. It offers up a relaxed vibe to travellers, thanks to the warm and welcoming owners. As an added bonus, it’s only a five-minute walk from all of the best restaurants in town.

Perth: Alex Hotel ( $230 a night ) — There’s no getting around it: Perth is one of the most expensive cities in Australia for tourists, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t bargains to be found. In particular, I’m a huge fan of Alex Hotel, in the city’s CBD. Not only is it only a 15-minute walk from my favourite restaurant in the city (Ramen Keisuke Tonkotsu King: if you’re a ramen fan, you have to go!), but the interior is beautifully decorated, the breakfasts are impressive, and the rooftop terrace offers up some great city views.

Hobart: The Lodge on Elizabeth Boutique Hotel ( $196 a night ) — The Lodge is a wonderful historic home (one of the oldest buildings in Hobart!) that’s located just a 10-minute walk into the centre of the city. What I loved about it was how homely it feels. It’s like coming back to a cosy home at the end of a long day of exploring — and there’s no better feeling than that! You can expect free parking, tons of travel advice from the owners, delicious breakfasts, and even free glasses of port in the communal lounge. Enjoy!

The Cost of Transportation in Australia

One thing to keep in mind is the sheer size of this country! It’s around the same size as the continental U.S., so if you wouldn’t expect to be able to see the entirety of the United States in two weeks, it’s unrealistic to hope to do the same in Australia.

With the vast majority of Australia’s attractions scattered along its coastline, driving distances can therefore be huge. My road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne involved driving well over 1,000 miles (1600 km), while Sydney and Perth are separated by a whopping 2,500 miles (4,000 km). To drive from Brisbane to Cairns, you’ll spend 19 hours behind the wheel and still be in Queensland.

Because of this, it’s often easier, definitely faster, and usually cheaper, to fly between Australian cities. Still, don’t expect flights to always be speedy: it takes a whopping five hours to fly from Sydney to Perth!

If you’re short on time, though, it’s well worth taking a look at the offerings from the local airlines, as flights within Australia can sometimes even cost less than taking a bus. As an example, I paid just A$40 for a Jetstar flight from Cairns to Melbourne, skipping the 31 hour[!] drive time. You’ll most likely be flying with Qantas, Jetstar, or Virgin Australia; Qantas has the nicest planes; Jetstar is usually cheapest. I recommend using the flight comparison tool, Skyscanner , to find the best deals.

One of my top tips for saving money in Australia is to check the prices of flights for smaller airports that are located on a city’s outskirts. For example, Avalon Airport is just 15 miles from Melbourne’s main airport of Tullamarine, but usually offers cheaper flights. It’s nearly always less expensive to fly into the Gold Coast instead of Brisbane; two cities that are less than 50 miles apart.

One final thing: last year, the budget airline Bonza launched in Australia, offering very cheap flights for a limited number of destinations in the country (they have neither SA or WA flights nor Sydney yet). The catch? The only way to see their prices of flights is to download the “Fly Bonza” app. Yeah, it’s kind of a pain in the ass. Still, if you’re looking for a bargain, it might be worth the added annoyance for you to take a quick look; their prices are often half what the major carriers are charging. (Melbourne to Alice Springs is $169 direct, for example, in comparison to Jetstar/Virgin’s $350 with a layover in Adelaide).

With all that being said, there’s nothing quite like overlanding across Australia, and this country is well set-up for a road-trip. I’ve road-tripped four times throughout the country, from the Great Ocean Road to the entire East Coast.

If you’re on a tight budget, the easiest way to see the country is to buy a campervan when you touch down in Australia — this is how backpackers have been exploring Australia for decades . Then, when you’ve finished your road trip, you simply sell your campervan to a brand new arrival in the country. It works out to be a lot cheaper than renting (as long as you don’t total the car!) as you’ll make most of your money back at the end of the trip. Some people even manage to sell their campervan for more than they paid for it, completely eliminating all transportation costs from their trip!

You can find campervans for sale on Gumtree and Facebook (try the groups Backpacker Campervans for Sale and Campervan Sales Australia ). In general, there’ll always be a cheap and cheerful option for 10,000 AUD (6,500 USD/EUR or £5,300) available. For something with lower mileage and a more comfortable set-up, you’ll be looking at around 25,000 AUD , although obviously the sky’s the limit! If you want a bougie, Instagrammable, #vanlife set-up, you’ll be looking at as much as 70,000 AUD for your camper.

If buying isn’t for you, then renting is still a great option, whether it’s a campervan to road trip around the country, or settling on an economy car to save money. Personally, I’ve always nearly always rented a car while road-tripping Australia, so that I could stay in hotels along the way.

Regardless of which method best suits you, car rental prices can range from $50 a day for an economy car, all the way up to $150 — I always book through RentalCars.com when hiring a car. For campervans, it’s best to go with Jucy or Travellers Autobarn — both companies have a range of vehicles, including brand new ones, that are competitively priced. You’ll expect to pay between $120 and $230 a day , depending on how high-end the vehicle is.

Public buses are a great way to get around the country — in my option, the best way if you’re on a tight budget — and they’re seriously cheap if you’re going to be traversing the entire country. Greyhound is your best bet here, as they cover most of Australia and at very reasonable rates. If you book far enough in advance, you can sometimes grab a ride for just $1 !

Take a look at Greyhound’s Whimit passes, too, if you plan on travelling predominantly by bus. These are easily the cheapest way to travel across Australia. The Whimit passes give you unlimited travel across Australia; you can undertake any bus route of any length at any time over any travel period. Prices are as follows:

$665 for 90 days of travel works out to just $7.39 per day , which is so much cheaper than renting your own car and paying for petrol!

I’ll briefly mention interstate trains here, as there are a few of them in Australia, but they make for a pretty expensive option. It’s usually way cheaper to take the bus or fly between stops than to take the train. For example, the famous Ghan train, which runs between Adelaide and Darwin, takes you across the heart of Australia over three days, living in luxury and gazing out at that iconic Outback scenery. This isn’t a trip for the budget travellers, however: a three-day trip on the Ghan comes in at a whopping $3000 . Per person . Yikes!

I do want to give a specific shout-out to the cost of trains within the state of Victoria, however! They’re incredibly affordable here. In fact, you’ll never pay more than $9.20 for any train ride, even if its a multi-hour journey, taking you from one side of the state to the other! It makes day-tripping cheap and feasible for those of you who don’t want to drive.

Within the cities themselves, you’ll find that public transport is reasonably priced. Unsurprisingly, Sydney and Melbourne have the best public transport accessibility in Australia, followed by Perth and Brisbane. 

Buses, trains, and ferries operate in the vast majority of Australian cities, and you’ve also got trams in Melbourne and light railways in Sydney, Adelaide, Canberra, and the Gold Coast. There’s even a metro system in Sydney and Adelaide! We do also have Uber here in Australia, which makes getting around a breeze. I generally pay around $50 for a 30 minute drive.

Needless to say, there’s lots of ways to get around if you won’t have a car. To give some examples of prices:

In Sydney, you’ll pay (depending on time of day and distance travelled) $4-6 for a bus, $2-11 for a train, $7-10 for a ferry, or $4-5 for a light-rail journey.

In Melbourne, public transport fares start at $3.30 , and there’s a $10 cap on daily public transport fares, so you’ll never pay more than that per day, no matter how many trains, trams, or buses you take. There’s also a free tram zone in the heart of the city, where you won’t pay anything at all!

In Brisbane and the Gold Coast, transportation fares range between $3 and $22 , based on distance, although you’re unlikely to pay as much as $22 , as that’s the cost of travelling 170 km to Gympie (something a tourist is unlikely to do!).

The Cost of Food in Australia

When you ask me about the food in Australia, there’s one thing that comes to mind: brunch.

Australian breakfasts are the absolute best in the entire world, with Melbourne offering up the tastiest versions . From Vegemite on toast to avocado on toast (called smashed avo), Australia is all about bringing new breakfast dishes to the world. But the brunches are on a whole different level, with a multitude of elaborate ingredients and flavours. If I was only able to eat out for one mealtime in Australia? It would definitely be for breakfast.

Like absolutely everything in Australia, food is relatively expensive — particularly eating out in restaurants. I can easily spend $20-30 on every single meal, so if you’re hitting up cafes and restaurants for all three meals, you can easily find yourself spending $100 a day just on food. The food is fantastic, though, so if you have the cash, it’s absolutely worth digging into Australia’s food scene.

“Throw a shrimp on the barbie!” This iconic line is what most visitors to Australia think of when it comes to food, but fun fact: I’ve never once seen — let alone eaten! — a shrimp on the barbecue! Still, BBQing is a huge deal in Australia, and it’s a great way to keep your costs down. Once of my favourite things about Australia is that many of the parks are home to free public barbecues! It makes for such a cheap meal: hit up the local supermarket for some meat, then head to the park to cook for yourself. You’ll nab yourself a meal for less than $10 and have a cultural experience while you’re at it!

Kangaroo? Absolutely! You can buy kangaroo meat from supermarkets (I like kangaroo sausages) and order kangaroo from many restaurants. It’s not a particularly exciting meat to eat, as it just tastes like a cross between beef and venison, but hey, if you eat meat and want to try something new, it’s definitely worth a sample. While you’re trying new meats, I recommend hitting up a fish and chip shop while you’re travelling Australia’s coastline: while you’re there, make sure to order flake: it’s shark!

While eating out in Australia can be expensive, it’s not too pricey to buy from supermarkets. If you’re backpacking or looking to save money, then, aim to have your breakfasts and lunches from the supermarkets: you’ll pay $1 for a 500g of pasta and $2 for some pasta sauce, for example, or $1 for a loaf of bread and $1 for some butter. Not very exciting or nutritious, no, but if you’re prioritising seeing as much as possible, you can see how it’s easy to keep costs low.

Australia is a drinking society, offering up booze from the infamous goon (boxed wine that’s $10 for 5 litres) to a high-end wine from the Adelaide wine region (easily $50). A beer in a restaurant can cost around $8, and a cocktail in a fancy bar can easily come in at $18. When it comes to alcoholic options, coffee comes in at $3-4, and even a can of soda works out to be $3!

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Australia

When it comes to travel in Australia, there are so many famous activities and attractions to add to your itinerary. The only downside of this, of course, is that — yet again! — they come at a price.

The greatest attraction in Australia is the magnificent Uluru: that gigantic red rock in the centre of the country. I highly recommend checking it out while you’re in Oz, but it’s important to keep in mind that its location can make for a lengthy and expensive trip. The first expense is getting there: if you have your own wheels, it’s well worth making the drive through the Outback, but if that sounds like an intimidating journey, you’ll be flying into Alice Springs instead. Flights are typically between $300 and $400 for a one-way ticket; $500 to $800 for a return ticket. On top of that, you’ve got the entrance fee ( $38 for three days), the cost of a tour (around $300 for day trip), and any special experiences ( $200 for a 25-minute helicopter ride ; $180 for a base walk, full day in the park, and sunset BBQ ).

Speaking of expensive experiences, I absolutely loved the time I spent out on the Great Barrier Reef. It was incredible! But the main thing to know is that if you want to see healthy, live coral, you need to jump on a liveaboard, which means you need to spend at least one night out on the water. This additional time allows you to travel away from the day-trippers, who spend their days observing dead, bleached coral. It is pricey, but this was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Australia (and I went in with low expectations!). We went with Reef Encounter (the best company in Cairns) and paid $1,600 for two nights on board. It was truly, truly incredible and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

I also took a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef with GLS Aviation and paid $300 for two people to take a 40-minute flight. I wrote about this experience in-depth on my site — it was amazing! And so valuable to be able to see the reef from above. It really helped to put its size into perspective for me.

And finally, don’t forget the entrance fee to Australia itself! Fun fact: I’ve managed to forget to apply for a visa for Australia twice over the past decade, and both times, it’s caused me an inordinate amount of stress and panic. Yes, as soon as you book your flights to Australia, you’re going to want to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) in order to enter the country. Don’t forget! I use iVisa for my ETAs for Australia and pay $20 each time.

Don’t You Dare Forget About Travel Insurance!

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Australia. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Australia?

With all of that being said, it’s time to tally up all of my travel expenses in Australia, in order to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend while travelling in this wonderful country:

The cost of travel in Australia for backpackers

Accommodation: A$30 per day Transportation: A$20 per day Food: A$25 per day Activities: A$10 per day

Total cost of travel: $A85 per day (58 USD per day)

The cost of travel in Australia for couples on a mid-range budget

Accommodation:  A$50 per day Transportation:  A$30 per day Food:  A$40 per day Activities:  A$12 per day Total amount spent per day: A$132 per day

ARE YOU PLANNING A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA? HAVE ANY QUESTIONS? LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!

Related Articles on Australia 🇦🇺 30 Incredible Things to Do in Melbourne, Australia 🐠 Nerves and Nausea Over the Great Barrier Reef 🥑 Fitzroy is Home to the Best Brunches Ever 🦘 Tasmania Is Incredible And You Should Go There Now

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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24 comments.

I’m not much of a hiker either but I do get that sudden burst of pride that I can take it all in my stride like there’s no stitch, no shortness of breath & definitely no sweat pouring into my eyes. The feeling of making it to the top is incredible, the feeling of sitting down & filling your mouth with cold water – even better :)

Agreed! I think I may now be a hiking convert — the feeling of pride afterwards was amazing!

Hiking in flip flops?! Are you crazy! Haha! I’m going to hike up Adams peak in Sri Lanka tomorrow night, soon I will have cobra calves like you!

Hahaha! I’d lived in flip flops for the past year so assumed I’d be fine. I probably should have bought some hiking boots….

Good luck with the hike! Cobra calves are sexy :)

good choice seeing the blue mountains. it really is underrated imo.

you heard the story about the first convicts in Australia? not knowing where they were, they thought China was on the other side of the blue mountains…

Thanks! And nope, I hadn’t heard that before — too funny!

I was horrified too when I realised just how big Australia is, but after a while it became second nature to spend a whole day travelling from one place to the next. The Blue Mountains is one of the places in Australia I really wish I had visited, it looks so, so beautiful.

Aren’t the distances crazy. If I drove for the amount of time I did in Australia I’d end up in the ocean!

The Blue Mountains was probably the highlight of my entire time in Australia so hopefully you’ll make it there one day! :)

Wow it looks amazing! Impressive doing it in flipflops as well. Although I would recommend buying something slightly more comfortable to wear for all the New Zealand hiking I’m sure you will be doing. I did the famous Tongariro Crossing in Converse. Something I do not recommend…took me three days for my feet to recover after that…

Yep, I bought a pair of excellent hiking shoes a few days after my time in Blue Mountains and love them!

I can’t imagine doing the Tongariro in Converses would have been particularly easy! :)

Wow stunning photos for such a stunning place! I’m ashamed to admit I’ve never heard of this place at all! However, I’m glad I saw your tweet, because now I can add this to my list of a biz-zillion things I want to do before I die.

It’s ok, Bryan… I didn’t know its name before I arrived :-) Glad you’ve added it to your list, it definitely deserves a place there!

Knew there was a reason the Blue Mountains were on my Aussie bucket list :D I’m not a hiker and already know I’m going to bitch and moan all the way up but looking at your photos, it’s definitely going to be worth it and I can’t wait :D

Yay! I’m so glad you’re going to be heading here — it’s been my favourite place in Australia! :-) And, really, if I made it in flip flops then you *definitely* can handle it!

I literally just got to Sydney this morning and was planning a trip to the Blue Mountains when I realized I hadn’t checked your blog in a while. Thankfully I did! Great tips and photos as always! My travel companions are also super excited since they share your enthusiasm for hour long sunset photo shoots haha

Awesome, I’m so glad it could help! You’ll love it there, it’s SO beautiful!

Those are such gorgeous photos! It really is such a dramatic landscape. I did the same hike as you last year and loved it! I took that tram back up, the steepest one in the world I think it is. So sure I was going to slip out! Really great blog :)

Thanks, Veronica!

I didn’t get a chance to take the tram but it looked pretty daunting… I would have probably spent the entire journey hyperventilating!

Haha, I’m enjoying reading about your progress towards becoming “A Hiker.” Looks like a gorgeous hike for sure!

Though, I hate to tell you this… but I feel like Dave might be onto your nose-breathing secret after reading this post… ;)

Wait until you hear about the stuff I get up to in New Zealand! I go a bit crazy and almost break myself :)

*Cue Mouth Drop* These photos are stunning! This is intense. Everytime I come on here now it’s featuring some sort of awesome bike trip (or a gnarly fall) or an amazing hike. I love it!

Awww, thanks Ryan, glad you like the photos!

Haha, I’ve done a few hikes in flip flops too! Sometimes not the best choice, but I just love them so much it makes it hard to put on real shoes :) Good choice on picking the Blue Mountains! They look stunning!

I know! After about a year in Southeast Asia, I threw out all of my other shoes and lived in flip flops… I love them so much!

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The Ultimate Australia Road Trippin’ Guide — 10 Itineraries For The Perfect Adventure of a Lifetime

From cities to coasts and national parks to natural beauties, an epic road trip is the best way to explore Australia!

Recently, I rented a Blue SG car with my best friend and had a wild time driving 17km from Yishun to Hougang. It barely qualifies as a road trip, but it reminded me of my last trip to Australia . If you didn’t know already, it’s one of the sweetest places for a truly epic road trip!

Across the country, there are tons of routes packed with scenery, action and adventure. And it’s friendly for beginners (a.k.a. driving noobs) too!

It’s a bummer we can’t travel right now, but I’ve found that an instant mood lifter is to get your ‘ revenge travel ‘ plans in order (i.e. a long post-COVID-19 trip that makes up for lost time) — so here are 10 of the best Australia road trips to go full throttle on once we get the green light! 🟢

1) Coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne

Journey time: 4–8 days (~1,300km) Starting point: Sydney Airport (~8hr flight from Singapore)

Between two of Australia’s largest cities, the coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne (or vice versa) is sensational. Every inch of the way from New South Wales to Victoria offers quirky seaside towns, golden beaches and wondrous ocean views.

Part of the route includes the Grand Pacific Drive , a 140km stretch along New South Wales’s South Coast . It covers gorgeous attractions like the Royal National Park and the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge .

The drive from Sydney to Melbourne is perfectly beginner-friendly. There are many stops along the route whenever you need to stretch your legs.

Read more: Sydney South Coast Road Trip — 7-Day Itinerary From Sydney to Eden

Now, onto the epic must-dos. First, sign up for some adrenaline-pumping skydiving over Wollongong . Above the magnificent coast, you’ll freefall at speeds over 200km/h, wayyy faster than you’ll ever go on your road trip!

Photo credit: @kattgao via Instagram

After Wollongong, drop by the Kiama Blowhole and be blown away. Well, not literally, but there’s a good chance of getting soaked.

Alternatively, if you’re road trippin’ during summer, spend a night or two in Jervis Bay . You might be lucky enough to catch the phenomenal sea sparkles , or bioluminescence.

Once you’ve crossed the border into Victoria , get ready for even more wow’s (and aww’s ). For nature lovers, don’t miss the adorable Penguin Parade on Phillip Island . It’s a heart-melting treat watching these little fellas waddle out of the ocean and scuttle around the beach.

Check out other island activities like scenic walks and visiting the cuddly Koala Reserve too!

Photo credit: @helenabradbury via Instagram

Before you reach Melbourne , make one last stop at Mornington Peninsula . Here, you can drink deep at exquisite wineries and explore the stellar coastline at Cape Schanck (recommended by Chris Hemsworth 🤩).

Got another week to spare? Extend your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide just next door! Alternatively, if you’re flying out from Sydney , make the return drive from Melbourne to Sydney via the inland route . After coasts and busy beaches, you can now enjoy the quiet countryside and historic gold-mining towns.

2) Ultimate Australian Outback road trip from Darwin to Adelaide

Journey time: 10–14 days (~3,000km) Starting point: Darwin Airport (4.5hr flight from Singapore)

Cutting across the vast outback, the drive from Darwin to Adelaide takes you through a series of wonderful and unusual landscapes. You’ll pass miles of red earth in the Northern Territory before reaching South Australia’s world-renowned wineries.

This adventurous route is more suited for seasoned travellers as you might be driving long distances (depending on your itinerary). Petrol stations are also few and far between, so plan carefully and refuel at every stop.

To eager first-timers, don’t let the long drives stop you from diving into this road trip! Just add a few more days for exploration and extra rest.

Photo credit: @exploreuluru via Instagram

Deep in the heart of the Red Centre , the hallmark of this outback road trip is the monumental Uluru . Get to know it your way — see it from above with a badass helicopter ride , or join a cultural tour and learn about the sacred land and Aboriginal culture.

Photo credit: @nealjennings via Instagram

Eight hours away lies the strange town of Coober Pedy . It’s the opal mining capital of the world, but the show-stealer is that the locals live underground to avoid the scorching heat!

Staying a night here is a must. It’s not every day you get to live in a posh B&B carved out of natural sandstone, especially one located 25m below .

Photo credit: @alan.timms1 via Instagram

If you thought Coober Pedy was mind-blowing, wait till you hit the Flinders Ranges .

The national park is home to incredibly dramatic landscapes like Wilpena Pound , a massive bowl-shaped crater made up of craggy mountains. The best way to see it is through an exciting scramble up to its rugged ridges or a relaxing scenic flight .

Photo credit: @ashhughesphotos via Instagram

After days of non-stop adventure, wine down in the Barossa Valley — reputed as one of the world’s greatest wine regions. There are over 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors, so take your time to swirl and sip Australia’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon or special Barossa Shiraz.

The excitement doesn’t have to end in Adelaide ! Not too far from the city, there are plenty of jaw-dropping coastlines that are ripe for exploring, which brings us to our next route…

3) Scenic South Australia road trip — Southern Ocean Drive from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island and Mount Gambier

Journey time: 5–7 days (~500–1,200km) Starting point: Adelaide Airport (~7hr flight from Singapore)

With an abundance of coastal scenery, tasty wines and native wildlife, the Southern Ocean Drive is one of the loveliest, lesser-known road trips in Australia. In fact, some consider it a ‘sequel’ to Victoria’s Great Ocean Road drive (more on this later)!

The route is great for beginner road trippers as there are plenty of stops to pull over at. Plus, attractions are relatively nearby one another. It’s likely you won’t drive for longer than three to four hours each day.

Photo credit: @officialfleurieupeninsula via Instagram

South Australia produces half of all the wine in the country, so there’s no excuse not to indulge! Make your first stop at McLaren Vale in Fleurieu Peninsula . It’s home to some of the world’s oldest grapevines, and serves the most delectable wines and local produce you might ever taste in your life.

Photo credit: @promotemytown via Instagram

Nature and wildlife lovers would adore Kangaroo Island . A good part of it is protected in nature reserves, so it’s no surprise to meet wild ‘roos and see other wildlife roaming free!

Photo credit: TripAdvisor

To make your Kangaroo Island experience more unique, stay the night in a quaint cottage by Cape Willoughby Lighthouse . You’ll enjoy a well-deserved package: Exclusive privacy, calming sounds of crashing waves, and a magnificent sunrise view.

If you only have a few days, keep the road trip short and explore Kangaroo Island fully. Otherwise, take a ferry back to the mainland and continue your coastal journey.

Photo credit: @discover_mount_gambier via Instagram

Situated along the Limestone Coast , Mount Gambier is a city built atop an extinct volcano. Its main attraction is the mysterious Blue Lake , a huge crater lake. From April to November, the water is a distinct greyish-blue colour. But once November rolls around, it transforms into a striking turquoise blue.

The Blue Lake is not permitted for swimming, but its smaller cousin is! Satisfy your urge to dip at the Little Blue Lake , a giant sinkhole filled with pleasantly cool waters. It’s free to enter, and makes an awesome photo spot too!

Photo credit: @sarahafindlay via Instagram

4) Northern Territory Top End Nature’s Way Drive from Darwin to Katherine

Journey time: 8 days (~900km) Starting point: Darwin Airport (4.5hr flight from Singapore)

Top End Nature’s Way features a fantastic mix of tropical wonders and the fascinating Australian outback. Peppered with spectacular national parks, timeless Aboriginal culture, and the charming town of Katherine — this triangular route is especially geared for outdoor lovers.

Adventurous as it may be, the drive from Darwin to Katherine is actually easy. Main attractions are about three hours from each other. Roads are also well-paved, so you don’t need four-wheel drives (4WD). What you do need, though, are your best hiking shoes!

Photo credit: @_danieltran_ via Instagram

The first must-visit is Kakadu National Park , Australia’s largest. Take a walk through  Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) , an ancient rock art gallery that showcases Aboriginal traditions. Or, pack your bathers and dip in the beautiful Gunlom Plunge Pool .

Photo credit: @traveling_yorick via Instagram

The huge park is also home to boatloads of exotic wildlife, including 10,000 crocodiles ! Feed your curiosity and join a croc-spotting cruise — you might catch these prehistoric beasts basking lazily in the sun, or silently stalking their next meal.

Photo credit: Tourism Australia

In Katherine, travellers usually make a beeline for Nitmiluk National Park , and it’s easy to see why. The highlight is the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge , a deep sandstone gorge that transports you to another realm.

While cruises are available, enjoy a bigger thrill by hiring a canoe . During the dry season (May–Sep), you’ll get enchanting views while paddling through ancient landscapes.

Photo credit: @fewdaysbetween via Instagram

Finally, after days of fast-paced action, cool off at Litchfield National Park on your drive back to Darwin. The park has plenty of lush swimming holes, great for refreshing soaks.

In need of more adventure? Fly down to Alice Springs from Darwin and explore the Red Centre Way ! The route snakes through mighty attractions like Uluru and Kings Canyon . Seasoned travellers can rent a 4WD and zip through Mereenie Loop , a dusty dirt road.

Read more: 40 Lesser-Known Things to Do in Australia Highly Recommended by Locals, Travellers and Celebrities  

5) Grand Tasmania road trip — Great Eastern Drive from Hobart to Bicheno and the Bay of Fires

Journey time: 2–5 days (~300km) Starting point: Hobart Airport (~8.5hr flight from Singapore)

Whether you’ve got a week or a weekend, Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive promises a road trip getaway that’ll clear your head. Expect breathtaking coastal drives, pristine beaches and some of the freshest seafood around.

The drive from Hobart to Bicheno is mainly on sealed roads and highways, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned travellers. Plus, attractions are less than two hours from each other!

Photo credit: Maria Island Walk / Great Walks of Australia

Start your trip by disconnecting from civilisation. Take a 30-minute ferry ride from Orford to Maria Island . Hike to the Painted Cliffs , made magical by its bold swirls of earthy colours. The best time to view it is at sunset when the colours truly pop — just be sure you make it back to the ferry on time!

Photo credit: @itsworthashot via Instagram

Back on mainland Tasmania , dedicate a full day for Freycinet National Park . Wake early (or try your best to) and follow the Mount Amos trail to see Wineglass Bay at sunrise. The famous azure bay looks completely different when it’s bathed in a warm orange glow.

For the rest of the day, treat yourself to juicy, succulent oysters from Freycinet Marine Farm . Or, you could always work a little harder and harvest oysters straight from the waters.

Photo credit: @lady_siu_mei via Instagram

Wildlife lovers, stop by Bicheno for a cute penguin tour . Every evening, little penguins splash out of the waters and waddle around their burrows on the beach. The tour lets you get up close to watch them go about their adorably busy routines.

Photo credit: @_aswewander via Instagram

Finally, drive an hour from Bicheno to the legendary Bay of Fires . Clumped together on the white sand beach, the orange lichen-covered granite boulders are a great place to rest, swim, and take lots of lit photos .

Read more: 16 Picture-Perfect Places Every Australia Itinerary Needs

6) Best of Victoria road trip — Great Southern Touring Route from Bellarine Peninsula to Great Ocean Road and the Grampians

Journey time: 5–8 days (~850km) Starting point: Melbourne Airport (~7.5hr flight from Singapore)

No Australia road trip is more iconic than the Great Southern Touring Route ! You’ll feast well at the gastronomical Bellarine Peninsula , before winding along the marvellous coastline of the Great Ocean Road , and end with adventures in the Grampians .

The weeklong, round-trip drive is great for beginners. Most attractions are within two to three hours from each other, and there are plenty of stops along the way for rest and photos. Add more days if possible — this is one brilliant journey you don’t want to rush.

Photo credit: @littlemusselcafe via Instagram

If you’re travelling to the coasts first, make a quick detour to the Bellarine Peninsula . Bring an empty stomach — the up-and-coming region serves delicious local produce, from insanely fresh seafood to full-bodied wines and decadent desserts.

Recommended eateries include the Little Mussel Cafe , Scotchmans Hill , and the Scandinavian Ice Cream Company . Or, plan your own yummy Bellarine Taste Trail !

And now, the main event: The Great Ocean Road . Take your time for this leg of the journey! It’s totally normal to stop every few minutes and take photos of the unbelievable coastline. But, make sure you’ve allocated enough time to see all its classic sights — the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, the Arch and the Grotto.

As you drive back inland, stop at the Grampians , another must-visit attraction. The National Park is popular with outdoor lovers and travellers, who come to rock climb or conquer its adventurous treks.

If you only have time for one hike, make it the Pinnacle Lookout , one of the park’s highest peaks. The journey from Wonderland Car Park is moderately challenging, but filled with scenery that makes it a highly Instagrammable spot .

For a less gruelling hike, head to MacKenzie Falls . It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria that flows all year round.

Read more: 8D Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary — The Ultimate Road Trip Around Victoria’s Best Adventures

If you’re craving more coastal scenery, extend your Victoria road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide . The route includes Port Fairy , a whimsical seaside town, and picturesque Mount Gambier .

7) Hidden gems in the Australian Capital Territory — Canberra and Coast road trip

Journey time: 5–6 days (~650km) Starting point: Canberra Airport (8hr flight from Singapore)

For an unhurried escape, go on a picturesque road trip around Canberra and the South Coast . This round-trip route meanders from the city to the countryside and coast, topped with a mix of culture, adventure, and best of all — food!

As the road trip is relatively short, it’s great for beginners. Depending on your itinerary, you might be driving for a maximum of three hours a day. But there are many places to rest and take a breather along the way.

Photo credit: @balloonaloftcanberra via Instagram

Canberra is Australia’s capital, but not many travellers get to know the place! Rent a car and explore the city, teeming with friendly locals and cultural gems.

If you’re big on views, sign up for a fancy hot air balloon ride over the city. If not, tour around the impressive Australian Parliament House or the scenic National Arboretum .

Photo credit: @avenuehotelcbr via Instagram

After ticking off the city’s attractions, drive out to the peaceful countryside. There’s an abundance of fresh, farm-to-plate produce to savour, so bring your biggest appetite! During truffle season (Jun–Aug), many truffle farms offer hunting experiences, where you get to team up with a cute truffle dog that’ll sniff for this superb delicacy.

Other places to check out include traditional cider from Sully’s at the Old Cheese Factory , and Tilba Real Dairy for some rich, premium cheeses.

Get some peace and quiet with some overnight glamping! There are many sites to choose from in the South Coast, but the one that holds a special place in our hearts is Tilba Lake Camp . Located in the middle of a sprawling green pasture, you get a cosy lotus bell tent, a comfy bed and a delicious homemade breakfast.

Further down the coast, dip into the beautiful Bermagui Blue Pool . The good news is the natural rock pool offers some of the best views of the ocean, but be prepared — the waters can be quite chilly!

Once you’ve soaked up enough of the coast, end your road trip in Canberra.

8) Fun-filled Western Australia road trip — Indian Ocean Drive from Perth to Kalbarri

Journey time: 5 days (~1,800km) Starting point: Perth Airport (5hr flight from Singapore)

Few road trips are as vibrant as the Indian Ocean Drive . From Perth to Kalbarri , you’ll get a splash of colour driving past earthy landscapes, pink lakes and rich, red gorges. Arrive between Jul–Oct, and there’s also an explosion of multi-coloured wildflowers.

This route is part of Australia’s Coral Coast , and highlights some of the most exotic things you’ll ever see in the country. It’s also fairly easy for first-timers as there are many rest stops along the way. If you’re a seasoned traveller, don’t overlook this stretch — you might just discover something new!

Photo credit: @szjanko via Instagram

Just two hours from Perth, kickstart your adventure with some rad sandboarding at Lancelin Sand Dunes ! It’s a great winter sport substitute if you’re not a fan of cold or frozen snow. Plus, the fine sand makes a soft landing too!

Like the ruins of an ancient city, the Pinnacles Desert at Nambung National Park is one of Western Australia’s definite must-sees. Each limestone structure stands perfectly unique, eroded by centuries of wind. You can stroll around in the daytime, but we’ve found that this place makes an exceptional stargazing site once night falls.

Hutt Lagoon is a classic case of “you must see it to believe it”. The high salinity is what gives the lake its striking pink hue, which changes with the seasons and time of day. Naturally, it’s an Instagram hotspot — so dress your best and get snapping!

The final stop in the Indian Ocean Drive is Kalbarri National Park . It’s one of the most spectacular parks, with beautiful natural attractions around every corner.

Peek through Nature’s Window at the rocky gorge beyond, or check out the Kalbarri Skywalk . The park’s newest addition hovers more than 100m over the Murchison River, offering panoramic views of the arid landscape below.

If you’re here between Jul–Oct, wander around the Everlasting Wildflower Trail . The space comes alive with a burst of pretty, blooming wildflowers .

Photo credit: @roadtrippersaus via Instagram

Afterwards, follow the road back to Perth on your final day. But, if you have more time, extend your road trip down the Coral Coast .

Read also: 11D Western Australia Itinerary — Coastal Road Trip From Perth To Ningaloo

9) Epic Queensland road trip — Great Beach Drive from Noosa Heads to Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island

Journey time: 4–7 days (~420km) Starting point: Noosa Heads (~1.5hr drive from Brisbane Airport, 8hr flight from Singapore)

Here’s something for the young, wild and free! The Great Beach Drive to Fraser Island is as rugged as Aussie road trips get. In a comfy 4WD, you’ll cruise over 100km of beaches, sandwiched between wild bushland and the dazzling Coral Sea.

As the road trip requires a 4WD for off-road driving, it’s perfect for seasoned travellers. The backseat drivers can handle the road trip playlist and the vehicle access permit 😛

Photo credit: @t.becs via Instagram

Starting from Noosa Heads, take a 5-minute ferry ride from Tewantin or make a 40-minute detour to Noosa North Shore . In this unspoilt paradise, enjoy some beachside activities, or play a game to see who can spot wild kangaroos the fastest.

Photo credit: @manuelo.pro via Instagram

Further up, bask in the endless white sands of Teewah Beach . It’s only accessible via a 4WD so this is where your beachy journey begins! It’s also largely undeveloped — check that you’ve packed enough water and supplies, especially if you’re camping overnight .

Photo credit: @tracks.we.travel via Instagram

Continue on to Rainbow Beach . The lovely coastal town is famous for its coloured sand cliffs, caused by minerals staining the sand over thousands of years. Take a slow stroll and observe the natural swirl of colours ranging from white to ochre and red.

Photo credit: @alexxsadventures via Instagram

Finally, brace yourself for the grand event! From Inskip Point, take a short ferry ride across the ocean to Fraser Island . It’s the world’s largest sand island, and many come to conquer the glorious ‘highway’ that is 75 Mile Beach (that’s ~120km, FYI).

During your drive, swing by the Maheno shipwreck for photos and the Champagne Pools for a natural bubbling ‘jacuzzi’. Be sure to visit Fraser Island’s amazing rainforest too — it’s the only one on this planet that grows on sand!

10) Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route from Sydney to Byron Bay

Journey time: 9–14 days (~1,000km) Starting point: Sydney Airport (~8hr flight from Singapore)

The Legendary Pacific Coast is another iconic route. The drive from Sydney to Byron Bay up to Brisbane is full of quintessential Aussie experiences — bucket-list-worthy adventures, soft, sandy beaches, and countless places to surf.

The route itself is a 10-hour stretch, but it’s pretty manageable if you break the distance down over two weeks. Following this, beginners would drive for a maximum of two hours every day on smooth, sealed roads.

If you’re not keen on exploring the famous Blue Mountains , opt for the quieter Bouddi National Park . Hop on the many scenic tracks , which feature sandstone cliffs, isolated beaches and vibrant native bush.

Photo credit: @sand_dune_adventures via Instagram

Further up north, the adventures begin! Port Stephens is where you’ll find the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving coastal dunes — and there’s no better way to explore this shifting desert than with quad bikes (your first step to a 4WD!).

Read also: 9-Day Australia Road Trip Itinerary Around The Best Of NSW — Sydney, Blue Mountains and Beyond

Warning: Once you’re in Byron Bay , you might find it terribly hard to leave. The sun-kissed seaside town is arguably the best-kept secret in New South Wales , and there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do.

Read also: Byron Bay Guide: 25 Things to Do in NSW’s Ultimate Hipster Paradise

Experiences we 100% recommend include surfing at Main Beach , dining on fresh seafood at Catch-A-Crab , and watching the sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse . Meanwhile, Chris Hemsworth recommends diving at Julian Rocks (no kidding!).

Photo credit: @goldcoast_themeparks via Instagram

If you’re itching for more road trip adventures, drive a little further up to the Gold Coast or Brisbane in Queensland . Take your pick from hair-raising Gold Coast theme parks or the mellow Brisbane Brewing Co .

Read more: 2-Week Australia Road Trip from Sydney to Byron Bay — Discovering NSW’s Legendary Pacific Coast

Driving tips and planning for an unforgettable road trip in Australia

In a land so vast and wondrous, not exploring Australia on a road trip is a real shame. Even then, whether you decide to stay in the cities or hit the road, this country won’t have any problems curing your wanderlust !

All you need to do is find underrated things to do , or seek out socially-distant natural wonders . Hey, safety is sexy, no?

Speaking of safety, here are some useful driving tips for the long road ahead 👇 (1) Rent a GPS or download offline Google maps. Mobile reception isn’t available in remote places like National Parks. (2) Follow the speed limit — even in rural areas. Take it from us, the fines are hefty. (3) Watch out for wildlife on the roads. Drive at the recommended speeds, so that you can slow down or brake in time if an animal crosses in front of you. (4) Similarly, avoid driving in the dark as animals are more active then. If you do, use your high beam to see further ahead. Drop it when there are cars in the other direction (they’ll do the same too).

Need more ideas to plan your next Australia road trip? Find more guides and detailed maps for self-driving itineraries here !

Featured and Facebook image credit: @tracks.we.travel via Instagram

Which Australia road trip are you keen to go on? Share your plans in the comments!

This post is brought to you by Tourism Australia .

For more travel inspiration, follow us on Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , and Telegram !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com (@thetravelintern) on Jul 29, 2020 at 4:31am PDT

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💵 How Much Does it Cost to Travel Around for 12 Months?

How much does it really cost to travel around Australia full-time for 12 months? This is one of the most asked questions for those wanting to tackle the Big Lap or road trip Australia.

While some people make it all the way around in one year, others wander and take many years to complete a lap. A 12-month travelling Australia budget can vary depending on how fast you travel and what you experience along the way.

We were a family of four, living on the road, just meandering around Australia, exploring and living slow. We officially survived one whole year of travelling in a caravan. Well, if you want to get really specific, we haven’t actually left our home State yet. In our defence, Queensland is one BIG State!

While this is nowhere near a ‘Big Lap’ Budget, it does accurately reflect a snapshot of our caravan lifestyle expenses. For a look at other associated costs, heres the Full Breakdown of Caravanning Costs .

Read on to find out the costs!

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How Much Money Did We Start With for Travelling Australia?

If you think that the cost to travel Australia full-time needs to be expensive or requires a large sum of savings, let’s just squash that preconceived notion right now.

Do you want to take a guess at what our start-up figure was when we embarked on this adventure? $30,000? $20,000? Nope, we didn’t even have $10,000. We hit the road with just $2,500 in our back pocket!

To be fair, we always planned to have much more savings than that.

In the end, we were just so tired of looking at the ‘To Do’ lists. We basically put them aside and figured we’d get to them later (we never even looked at them after that and survived just fine). I guess that’s just a testament to thinking you need more than you actually do.

How Did We Fund 12 Months Travelling Australia?

So, if we only started with $2,500, how did we fund our travel around Australia for the first 12 months?

Well, we survived in a variety of different ways, but mostly from our few stints of stopping for work. My partner at the time was a Truck Driver and found it pretty easy to pick up work. We were also lucky to have a decent tax return last year, which gave our budget a nice little injection.

I kept myself busy building up the website and creating a range of Travel Planning Resources to help people like yourself, which also helped. Head on over and check out the OZ BIG LAP series!

Without further ado, let’s crunch some numbers!

12 Month Costs For Travelling Australia

Travel budget break-down, accommodation.

As you can see our weekly accommodation outlay was a mere $34.40 per week towards the cost to travel Australia full-time. That’s definitely loads cheaper than what we were forking out each week on our mortgage before we sold the house! Our favourite way to keep that figure down was with Free Camping as much as we could.

Free & Low Cost Camping

I really enjoy the freedom of being self-sufficient and have found that Free Camps are more readily available (and you can stay for longer) once you get away from the coast. Being able to carry up to 300 litres of water also gave us an extra few days off-grid.

Before heading off, we spent the money on a great solar set-up. That effectively meant that we didn’t need to do the old chase-the-sun-with-the-portable-panel dance. We honestly never had to stress about our usage, so it was worth it.

Of course, having an onboard ensuite was also a must for us. We stayed at plenty of Free Camps where there were no porcelain thrones available, let alone showers. You can see our caravan and tow vehicle for more of the ins and outs.

We were pretty lucky to have had enough friends and family spotted around with offers of grass patches. That was amazingly helpful (especially when stopped for work and caravan repairs).

RELATED POSTS: ◆ WikiCamps Tutorial → ◆ Free Camping Guide →

Caravan Parks

You may note that our Caravan Park cost per night ($12.56) was rather low. One main factor being that we had a voucher for one park, which we’d won through a competition. That meant that our stay didn’t cost us much out of our hip pocket.

The other factor was a due to a personal incident, which had us prearrange a very good deal with another park along the way. Both of those factors together kept our Caravan Park expenses really low. Without those opportunities we would have sought out alternative accommodation to help keep our cost of full-time travel in Australia as low as possible.

I’m pretty happy with our weekly grocery cost for full-time travel around Australia ($166.26 per week). This is also taking into account that we spent five months in Central and Outback Queensland, where the big chain grocery stores where few and far between.

Just to give you an idea, we went 5 weeks without seeing a Coles or Woolworths. Let me tell you, feeding a family from those tiny Outback Food Stores is EXPENSIVE! The range of food is tiny (especially with gluten intolerance in the van).

Check out these frugal living hacks to give you some ideas that’ll get you through those rainy days. But, being a budget shopper from way back (in fact this is more than I used to spend!) we survived. Let me share some of my tips and tricks with you.

TIPS TO REDUCE GROCERY COSTS:

Use What You’ve Got

Before buying more stuff, use up what you’ve already got first. This doesn’t just apply to food, but toiletries and cleaning items too. Dig deep into the back of the pantry and use up those items that keep getting shoved to the side. This is also a great way to avoid adding unnecessarily to your payload.

Keep a Running Shopping List

Stick a piece of paper onto the fridge/ whiteboard titled ‘Shopping.’ Whenever you notice an item has run out or needs to be replaced, add it to the list. Come shopping day, all you need to do is add anything extra that you know you need and you’re good to go. This curbs excessive unnecessary buying because you know exactly what you do and don’t need.

Meal Planning

Creating a meal plan doesn’t need to comprise fancy gourmet meals. It’s simply the deliberate act of seeing what ingredients you’ve already got and filling in the blanks to create 7 meals for the week. Add in lunches, snacks and breakfast as well.

Cooking in Bulk

When cooking, it doesn’t hurt to make the meal big enough to stretch out for another night or two. For example, when I make a stir-fry, I use two jars of sauce with the usual veggies, 2 pieces of chicken breast and boiled rice. That way, we end up getting an easy two to three nights out of the one meal. It really helps to keep the cost per meal lower.

Utilise Leftovers

Even if you don’t bulk cook, leftovers are still a thing. It’s much easier to reheat food the next night than it is to cook another meal from scratch, so why not use them up? If we don’t feel like the same meal by night two or three, I just freeze the leftovers. They’re great to have on hand for those busy travel days or if you’re wanting to stretch the budget out and cut the grocery bill down a bit.

Mix it Up with Cheap Meals

Yes, we consider baked beans on toast topped with grated cheese and pepper to be a meal sometimes! Another cheap meal is putting some of those leftovers into toasted sandwiches or adding them into a stew. A bit of leftover meat can be thrown in with rice and whatever veggies are left with some soy sauce and an egg for a basic Fried Rice.

Ditch Disposables

Not only is the elimination of disposables great for the world around us, but it saves quite a bit of money as well. I haven’t bought Glad Wrap or Alfoil in years – I just use containers, jars and beeswax wraps instead. The only cleaners I buy now are detergent and laundry liquid. The rest of the cleaning is done with reusable Norwex cloths. Get a good water filter on your tap and invest in a stainless steel drink bottle to replace bottled water. There is a solution for every disposable item once you start looking.

Another little grocery bill saver is with a little DIY. Making things from scratch will save you money if you’re that way inclined. For me, I like to make my own deodorant, rather than buying it. I also opt for straight out coconut oil as a moisturiser, which saves having to buy expensive creams.

Camping Food Checklist + Menu Planner

• 12 food item categories
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I wouldn’t say that our weekly fuel costs were neither low nor high, but somewhere in between. What I can tell you is that travelling slower is the key to keeping that cost down. It’s simple mathematics that the further you are travelling each week, the more fuel you’ll be going through.

Not everyone is in a situation where travelling slow is an option. I know many people are on a year-long quest to do the Big Lap, in which case, travelling slow just isn’t going to work. The cost of fuel is without a doubt one of the biggest additions to your travel Australia budget costs!

We had chosen to run a Petrol car for a variety of different reasons. Mainly because my partner could easily service, maintain and fix a petrol vehicle (diesels are more technical and specific). Plus, the parts are generally cheaper if things go wrong. Before we made our vehicle choice, we put hours of thought and research into what was the best financial choice for us overall.

Jerry Cans (eBay) →

When we weren’t plugged into power, we went through about one gas bottle per fortnight. That powered our hot water, BBQ, stove top burners and fridge. If we ever found ourselves needing to replace the fridge though, I’d definitely opt for a Compressor Fridge, which would run off the solar.

One tip that reduces gas consumption is to keep the hot water turned off at the switch and only turn it on 10 minutes before showers. This stops the hot water system from continuously heating up all day and night.

If I needed a bit of hot water to wash the dishes, I’d just boil a cup or two in the kettle as it was much quicker than heating up the 30 litres in the hot water system.

ALCOHOL & EATING OUT

We weren’t massive drinkers but certainly couldn’t resist a good Happy Hour here and there. We met some amazing travellers while sharing a yarn and partaking in a cold beverage, which is something we really enjoyed.

Evidently it seems we’re quite the sucker for the old Bakery and Pub Schnitty though. Who knew?!

Maybe I’m just justifying it to myself… or maybe I’m on to something, but we love being able to support those two local businesses. Eating out would certainly not have been something we could have done as often if we weren’t free and low cost camping as much.

Here’s cheers to all the Pub and Bakery owners out there, keeping all of us hungry and thirsty travellers well fed!

Insulated Mugs & Tumblers →

EXPERIENCES

The main experiences that we enjoyed were in Outback Queensland. I ticked off one bucket list item – The Dinosaur Trail . Plus, we also did the QANTAS Founders Museum in Longreach, which was brilliant.

While we were in The Gemfields in Central Queensland, we did a lot of Sapphire Fossicking . We also ferried over to Magnetic Island off the coast of Townsville, while in North Queensland.

Besides those big things, we frequented many other local museums and attractions along the way. We always made the most of free activities when they popped up, particularly council run Water Parks.

MAINTENANCE

The ‘Maintenance’ category covers not only servicing, but also tools, parts and other things that needed to be done to both the Patrol and the caravan during the year.

Here’s a look at what maintenance tasks popped up for us:

• Two car services (DIY labour, so we only need to pay for parts)
• New Tie Rod ends
• Wheel rotation & alignment
• Indoor/ outdoor car thermometer
• Airbag sleeves
• Car battery
• Water filter & hose fittings
• TV aerial cord
• General tools, parts & supplies
• Car wash costs

Caravan Maintenance & Service Log

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Our only real medical cost while travelling around Australia for the year, was an impromptu visit to a Rockhampton Dentist. A sore tooth resulted in a tooth being pulled out.

Indii also had a hospital visit after getting mild concussion while wrestling with her brother in Townsville. Thankfully hospital visits are free in this country!

RELATED POSTS: ◆ Travelling First Aid Kit → ◆ Travelling Ambulance Cover →

Dominic and Indii were Home Educated, which didn’t cost anything as such. We still had some workbooks to get through from the year before, so we only needed a couple of extra ones to kick start the year.

When due to get some more, I hit up Officeworks, Kmart, Big W and the like for relevant Maths and English books. We picked up reading books and educational games from Op Shops along the way, the rest was learnt through hands-on experience.

ON-ROAD BILLS

The ‘Bills’ category was the second biggest expense, coming in just behind ‘Groceries.’ Insurances were one of the mains costs, but making sure we were properly insured was not something worth skimping on.

Below is a list of all bills that we had, keeping in mind, we sold the house and did’t have anything in storage, so it’s just what we needed to live on the road.

• Car Insurance
• Caravan Insurance
• Car Registration
• Caravan Registration
• Phone #1 ($69/ month postpaid | Telstra | Unlimited calls, sms & data)
• Phone #2 ($35/ month prepaid | Aldi | 26 gb data + unlimited calls, sms)
• We put money aside to cover all servicing & maintenance
• Website costs

MISCELLANEOUS

The ‘Miscellaneous’ category was kinda like that third drawer that collects all of the bits and pieces without a home. Our figure for that year was particularly high ($3,496) because of a last minute trip, where we flew back home to see family and friends.

The other things that fell into the Miscellaneous this category:

• Op Shopping
• Gifts & souvenirs
• Post office
• Fishing bait
• Replacing the flogged out camp chair – $99 for the cheapest one in the Outback!
• Laptop charger
• Uber and any other random thing that pops up

Keeping Track of Travel Expenses

To keep up with all of our associated fuel and kilometre figures, we used the Fuel Map App .

Every time we put fuel in the car, we logged how many litres of fuel and how much it cost. In turn, the app automatically kept track of how many km’s we’d travelled, how many litres per 100km we were using and how many fuel top-ups we’d had.

It was brilliant, I totally recommend using it!

WALLET APPS/ PEN & PAPER

I knew before we’d even hit the road that I wanted to be tracking our total cost to travel Australia full-time in a caravan. After all, facts and figures can be highly motivating.

I began by trying a few different Wallet Apps, but they all failed to do what I needed. Some linked to my bank account (which I’m highly uncomfortable with) and weren’t categorising the info correctly. For example, it would log Woolworths fuel under ‘Groceries,’ instead of ‘Petrol.’ Too much time ended up being spent editing it all, just to keep on top of the true running costs.

I soon ditched the idea and went back to good ol’ pen and paper. This worked fine for a while, but I knew the notes would be stacking up too quickly before long.

EXPENSE TRACKER SPREADSHEET

Since I couldn’t find what I needed elsewhere, I created an Excel spreadsheet to track my cost of travel around Australia full-time. I included all of the categories relevant to travelling Oz across a 12-month time frame. I spent hours inputted all of the formulas so that everything would automatically tally up as I logged it. Now the numbers-nerd in me was happy.

Then I figured, well if I’m finding this rather useful, surely others could get a lot out of it too. So, I made the spreadsheet available for download and hence, the Expense Tracker was born!

In just 10 months it had easily become our Best Seller . That definitely shows that there are others out there who love to keep track of their own stats!

Here’s where you can download the Travel Expense Tracker Spreadsheet for your own trip.

Planning Your Big Lap Budget

If you’re in the planning stages and want to nut out how much a Big Lap or Road Trip around Australia is going to cost you, download our Big Lap Budget Spreadsheet.

It’s the perfect tool to work you through all expected costs, savings/ income, at home expenses, plus all of your set-up costs.

Final Thoughts

As with every budget write up, there is no one size fits all. Please bear in mind, this is just one family’s cost for one year of full-time travel in Australia. No doubt yours will look different.

Even our own numbers looked vastly different after a second year on the road. There are just so many variables at play.

To be honest, I could have easily cut a few things out if I wanted to (which I didn’t). We could even have lived a bit more luxuriously if we wanted to as well, but we were working to live, not living to work.

This budget layout is merely a snapshot to be used as a helpful tool. It’s an opportunity to see some real costs to help plan your own budget.

What does your travel budget look like? How do you keep track of your own costs and figures? Let us know below in the comments.

Packing Up to Travel Australia

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32 thoughts on “💵 How Much Does it Cost to Travel Around for 12 Months?”

What an amazing account of your planning and annual expenses. This is such a great inspiration to those who love this type of travel. You have really put it into perspective that this is feasible for anyone if they really want it. I applaud you for following your passion. You are providing yourselves with such an enriching experience. And, such a great experience for your children- priceless!

Thank you. I really believe that it can be achievable for most people if they really want to travel Australia for an extended length of time. With the right planning it can be done.

I love your detailed breakdown – thanks for sharing all the numbers. It strikes me that managing and categorising expenses is a big part of cheap/frugal travel living. I find it funny that you never left your home state – but I guess that just says that there’s lots and lots to do in Queensland!

It sure is a part of frugal living, I learnt those skills from when I was a poor student in my early twenties. Queensland is HUGE! We covered over 16,000 km’s and only really looped around half of the state.

We just got back from a one month loop around outback QLD (around 3,500kms) from Townsville, up to Kurumba in the gulf and back through different towns including Longreach and the gemfields ( I’m still sifting my bag of gems lol. I got a handful but small ones). It was amazing. I’d love to have done what you are doing and doing it much slower. We will one day and it was amazing bumping into people you met before hundreds or thousands of kilometres away in another town all doing a similar trip. Thanks for all your advice.

Hi Sue, sounds like an amazing trip! How cool that you’ve still got some gems to go through – we loved sapphire fossicking. I have some small ones that I’ve put into a locket pendant and wear all the time as a keepsake. Meeting like-minded people and bumping into familiar faces along the way is the best. Thanks for checking out our blog and safe travels in the future.

Well, you turned the myth that ‘travelling is expensive’ on its head. Impressive figures here, showing that one can save in so many different ways. Not that I would mind the extra frill 🙂

Haha I don’t mind a bit of extra frill here and there too 😉

That’s a brilliant and detailed insight into life on the road. Aus can be expensive for things like food (my mum was an ex-pat in Addie) but you’ve stretched your grocery budget until it squeaked. And with someone gluten-free too! As a coeliac, I know that can be expensive.

I love how you got to the point where you decided it was time to go. We can all wait for the perfect time, and sometimes that time is now. And what an adventure it must have been and will continue to be. Wishing you lots more happy miles!

Australia can definitely be an expensive country to live in. It’s kinda like we have no choice being all the way over here on our own. There were some really tough moments being GF on the road where I just wasn’t organised enough, so I’ve had a few lessons there along the way.

We could have been prepping forever, but got so over it. It was time to just bite the bullet.

So awesome that you traveled around Australia for a year in a caravan. This detailed budget report was so interesting. I always wondered what the costs would be like to live on the road. I actually was surprised at the total as I actually thought it would have been cheaper. I also am impressed that you kept track of all your expenses for an entire year.

Haha yeah tracking it all for a year takes commitment. There are definitely people doing it cheaper and some spending much more. As with everything in life, the variables are far and wide.

Such an awesome and very detailed post chock full of useful information and insight. You have fully embraced the travel nomadic lifestyle, good for you. But even better for your family. I know one family that picked up, sold their house, bought a sailboat (hey, a caravan is a land yacht) and headed off to see the world. It was a life-altering experience for them and for their children. The sort of education and upbringing you simply cannot get in a school house immersed in only books and theory.

Man, I couldn’t even imagine doing it in a yacht. But I am more of a land-dweller. I can see how it would be have been such a fantastic experience for that family. You certainly do learn so much more through life than you possibly can do through books within four walls.

Congratulations on completing a year out on the road, that is something we are looking forward to be doing later on. The pie chart was a touch of genius and gave a very quick understanding of how the money flows. Also thank you for all the individual tips you included under the different sections, ready pointers like these help future travelers and gives them a lot of confidence 🙂

Thanks so much for having a read of our budget break-down Mohana. It really does become useful data and seeing where the money flows I think is extremely important when understanding your own financials. Knowledge is power 🙂

That’s a great breakdown on costs. Aus is expensive especially on fuel and food in the outback but there are ways to keep costs down. We lived in Aus for a year but we worked and did shorter trips but still quite long with one from Melbourne to Darwin and Brisbane to Cairns!

It sure can be an expensive country to travel! But there are definitely ways to save a bit of money and keep the dream alive a bit longer. Melbourne to Darwin and Brissy to Cairns are huge trips! It’s a big country.

Good for you for embarking on your journey, even though you didn’t have the funds you were aiming for. It seems you’ve found ways to be very resourceful and budget carefully – – good tips for keeping food costs down. I could do a much better job of tracking travel expenses, so I’ll take a look at the Expense Tracker.

Hi Cindy. Yes being resourceful is such a great skill to have and luckily I learnt a lot about that in my younger years!

I just loved reading this as I love life in a camper! (Dream!) The map shows just how huge Australia is! The details around the budgeting are super interesting to read. How great that there is free camping to reduce the overall daily budget from time to time. Love how you have developed an app to suit your needs and those of others. Happy Travels.

Thanks Alison. Free Camping in Australia is just amazing. Really, pulling up on a piece of dirt or grass should be free anywhere in the world in my opinion. After all, it’s everyone’s planet. The Expense Tracker is not quite an App, but rather a spreadsheet ;).

I absolutely love how thorough a post this was. My goodness! I’m absolutely impressed that you left with $2500 in-hand! That’s so brave! I don’t have the skill to pick up the same sort of work as your husband, but I am able to pick up freelance writing work and the like. I’ve often extended vacations that way!

What a lucky life for your girls too! My goodness! If I could go back in time, I’d raise my children much the same way! As for the compressor stove, have you considered seeing if you could get sponsorship? Maybe write some sellers of the product, or the product manufacturer and show them this amazing post, then sell the older stove so that it’s not wasted?

Lastly, are you ever in one place long enough to get Amazon deliverys? If you are, I usually get my beeswax sheets for free. If you look up Amazon Deal and Code sites on Facebook, that’s one of the items that sellers are often looking to give away to get their position up further in search results.

Anyway, I’ll be bookmarking this. I’m in the US, but still, there’s so much useful information in this post… SOO Much!

Hey Cathy, I’m so grateful that Allan is able to pick up work along the way, I don’t think we’d be able to live this way if he couldn’t. Freelance writing is definitely a great way to help fund the travels, I’ve done a bit of that myself.

It’s actually the fridge that we’d get compressor-style if we could. It’s definitely possible to look into sponsorship to get it changed, we might possibly look into that in the future.

We can easily get mail delivered. I didn’t know about the free beeswax wraps. Thank you, I’ll definitely have to look into that! At the moment I’ve got a nice stash of some that Mum bought for me for my birthday. They are great, love them!

Thanks so much for taking the time to read this post!

Hi there, great information for those of us planning to do a loop in the not too distant future. How many people are you feeding?

Hi Anna, we’re feeding 4 (2 adults and 2 primary aged kids).

A very good read, we aren’t proposing to do a big lap but travel to Darwin via Uluru. We will get the Fuel Map App and Expense Tracker, I’m a figures person also, thank you and safe travels to you.

Hi Margaret, thanks so much for having a read. That sounds like a really Aussie trip to take, it’ll be loads of fun. We definitely recommend the Fuel Map App and Expense Tracker if you’re a numbers person, they both make life much easier when it comes to recording and tallying up figures.

What caravan did u buy and why

Hi Jason, after many months of research we ended up deciding on the Jayco Starcraft Outback bunk van (23 ft). We love and haven’t had any problems with it, besides the usual wear and tear type stuff. You can see the full run down if you click on ‘OUR SET-UP’ at the top of the page.

How many kilometres did you do in the 12 months

Hi Jenny, our total distance travelled is 16,204 km’s.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » 10 EPIC Australia Road Trips: Big, Bold, and Beautiful

10 EPIC Australia Road Trips: Big, Bold, and Beautiful

Australia: a continental landmass of crocodile-wrestling locals, man-eating dropbears, and gigantic expanses of endless red dirt. Maybe only one of those things is true.

That said, there is truly, truly massive amounts of red dirt. On any Australian road trip through its gargantuan “Red Centre”, you will see endless horizons of ochre hues. Words cannot describe the scope of this untameable land.

In Australia, one can easily drive for days on end without the scenery changing at all and with only the occasional roo – jumping out in front of the car on a suicide mission – to break up the routine. But if you can handle the distances and duck the kamikaze kangaroos, the country can be one hell of a setting for some epic Australian road trips.

Of course, embarking on Australia’s road trips isn’t so simple. First, you’ll need a vehicle. You’ll also need to manage the equally untameable cost of travelling in Australia. (Damn you fuel prices in Oz!)

And of course, you’ll need to decide on which of the best road trips in Australia you’ll be Mad Max-ing. Spoiler: they’re all bloody magnificent.

So that’s why I’ve written this guide to travelling Australia by car (or van). A roundup of the most epic Australian road trips you can possibly sink your teeth and adventurer chomps into!

Fire her up cause we’re headin’ out back, mate.

Exploring Australia: Prepping for the Road Trip

Top 10 epic australia road trips: she’ll be right, 10. kangaroo island, some safety advice for australia, let the great australia road trip commence.

The word Australia is now pretty much synonymous with the word “backpacking”. This is primarily because countless backpackers from all around the world now flock here annually, either to take long working holidays (yay for obscenely high minimum wages) or to try and start a new life.

Meanwhile back in the rest of the world, (certainly in India, South-East Asia and South America) it often feels like most of the other backpackers you meet are Australian (closely followed by Germans then Israelis). In summary Australia = Backpacking . Right?

Despite this, the former prison colony has still not really been properly explored save by only a handful of very brave and foolish souls. Australia is massive, it’s red, it’s angry, and it’s often damn well deadly and therefore, most folks (residents and visitors alike) end up sticking to the coastlines .

However, if you want to discover the real Australia then you need to head away from the beach and into that deliciously daring ‘outback’ . For a proper adventure, you gotta get away from humanity and into the sheer undulating arid heat. If you’re going to do that, then you’re going to need to get yourself a car and set off for an epic road trip in Australia.

The road is calling (here are a few inspiring road trip quotes , just in case you need any more motivation).

How to Travel Australia by Car

Firstly, you will need a driving licence . A serious traveller may even want to get an International licence although most “Western” licence (US, EU, etc.) will be perfectly valid down under . Be sure to get this back in your home country because everything is expensive in Australia.

You’re also going to need a vehicle for a road trip in Australia – no brainer! There are three ways to go about this:

• Hire a car or van in Australia – Renting a car in Australia is easy albeit expensive and much better suited to a short trip. There are heaps of car rental services in Australia but I recommend JUCY Rentals . They’ve been in the game as long as I remember; parked by the beaches of Byron Bay is a time-honoured Australian tradition almost as much as a beer and fish and chips. Probably also in Byron.
• Buy a car or van –  This is option two and the true backpacker way to have a road trip in Australia. Backpackers buying and reselling vehicles in Australia is incredibly common (given the sheer scope of Australia) and acquiring a pre-loved gypsy warhorse and selling it again later is super viable. The best way to go about this is through online listings: social media groups, car sales websites, Gumtree , traveller/hostel message boards, or even dipping into your personal network.
• Steal a car or van – Jokes, don’t do that. Remember how I said Australia was an ex-prisoner colony. Dem fuckers be crazy.

Travel Australia by Van or Car

Right, so you may have noticed how I specified van  OR  car. That’s because both are viable, however, I do have a special love in my heart for living and travelling in a van. And truth be told, Australia’s barren empty wilderness and endless beaches are simply built for the vanlife.

Ultimately though, the choice is yours. A car is cheaper to acquire (generally) and requires less mechanical knowhow, but you won’t have the sheer magnificent awesomeness a home with wheels. That said, vans can be absolute primadonnas and konk out on you at the worst possible time so it’s a matter of choice and desire.

Lastly (and most importantly), it is worth noting that not ALL of Australia will be open to you in a standard van or car. A lot of Australia’s landscape is incredibly harsh and some of the absolute best road trips will only be doable with a four-wheel drive.

Either way, the vehicle type you choose is going to affect your packing for the great Australian road trip . To that end, here is some more recommended reading:

Car Camping in Australia Resources:

• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List
• The Camping Master Checklist
• Best Budget Backpacking Tents
• Best Sleeping Bags
• And don’t forget a sleeping pad!

Van Travel in Australia Resources

• The Full Guide to Vanlife
• Campervanning in New Zealand Guide

(Yes I know it’s New Zealand but bar the much smaller scope and lack of murderous animals, the countries are quite comparable.)

Oh, and here’s a kickass post discussing the cost of a road trip in Australia . Ta-dah!

A Word on Australian Visas

Pretty much everybody will need a visa to enter Australia. The immigration policies and staff are zealous and you will be given the once over.

Travellers from most Western Countries can enter for tourism purposes on an Australian ETA (subclass 601) . Whilst these are amongst the easiest type to obtain, do remember to apply before you fly or you risk deportation

Ok, no more blabber-blabber: the best road trips in Australia! Let’s hop to it and get this show on the road!

So. Many. Puns.

So. Little. Time.

1. Gibb River Road – Western Australia

Accessible only by four-wheel drive, and completely impossible to do in the wet season, this road is one hell of an adventure. Bringing you 660 km down a dirt track from Broome to Kununurra , you’re likely not to see another soul on the road.

Countless waterfalls and natural springs greet you along the way – just make sure to check for freshwater crocs before you hop in! It’s one of the best routes you can take for an Australian road trip.

2. Cairns to Cape York – Queensland

At the northernmost tip of Australia, practically touching Papua New Guinea, lives a place called Cape York . Far from the backpacker trail, it’s an amazing place to explore. (Other than the saltwater crocodiles lurking in the water. Australia’s wildlife: the reoccurring theme of this guide).

The road travels down dirt roads with many river crossings, so you definitely need a four-wheel drive, much like most of the best spots in an Australia road trip. As you travel up from Cairns , you’ll pass through Cape Tribulation – a tiny town nestled in the rainforest, with the Great Barrier Reef a mere 30-minute boat ride away. It doesn’t get more idyllic than that.

3. Darwin to Uluru – Northern Territory

While this one can be done with an ordinary two-wheel drive vehicle, the route is definitely far from ordinary. A hundred kilometres south of Darwin , you’ll reach the gorgeous Litchfield National Park . With more waterfalls than you can handle, a ton of different bush walks, and a unique (and odd) type of termite mound, you could spend weeks in the park.

Continuing south you’ll get a true taste of the Outback, with roads stretching far into the horizon. But don’t worry, you won’t get bored; those suicidal kangaroos will keep you on your toes as you cruise to the red hot centre of Australia. Be sure to stop in at Alice Springs on your way to Uluru – yes, the famous giant red rock – to check out some traditional Aboriginal art  as well as the stunning views you won’t catch anywhere else on earth. You’ll find a few great hostels in Alice Springs as well. A great route to choose for an Australia road trip!

4. Great Ocean Road – Victoria

The Great Ocean Road is widely mooted as the “greatest” amongst the epic Australian road trips, and one of the best road trips in Victoria . For all those in love with the ocean, this road is an absolute must. Gliding along from every surfer’s paradises to massive plunging cliffs, the road is nothing short of spectacular.

Starting 275 km west of Melbourne , you’ll find the world-famous Twelve Apostles , where huge rock stacks rise from the waves. Love surfing (or the movie Point Break)? Get to Bells Beach , the setting of the last scene of the film, as well as Rip Curl’s surfing competition.

Be sure to stop in at some of the villages along the road as well; from Victorian-era buildings to small fishing communities, there are some great destinations along the Great Ocean Road.

5. The Greater Blue Mountains Drive – New South Wales

Mountains in Australia? Blue mountains ? Yep, they’ve got more than just kangaroos and koalas out there.

Taking you from the metropolis of Sydney right up the middle of the Blue Mountains , this drive is anything but ordinary. From Jenolan Caves , filled with crazy limestone formations, to the Three Sisters rock formation in Katoomba , you will find plenty to do in the area.

And if you get bored of the main route, no worries! The Bluies (a bit of local lingo for ya there) is an absolutely massive mountain range with awesome hostels to stay at tonnes of branching tracks:

• Running from Sydney to Lithgow is the Great Western Highway (the main route).
• Parallel to the Great Western on the other side of the Grose Valley is Bell’s Line of Road .
• There are heaps of dirt roads and fire trails running into the bush everywhere to explore.
• And tonnes of branching roads in other directions. Check out the  Megalong Valley or head towards  Oberon for some more eye candy.

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We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

6. The Nullarbor Plain – West Australia

The long road to Perth takes in 2000km of red Australia at its harshest. It’s flat, it’s long, it’s arid, and it’s a big wide open space so don’t get acrophobic on me now. It’s also an utterly rewarding adventure and one of the best of the epic Austrian road trips you can do.

It’s fair to say that doing the proper crossing of Australia by car is both an Australian and backpacker rite of passage. Take a friend or get used to your own company because it’s a lonely journey and not for the faint of heart. But my god is it a journey.

If, however, this all sounds like too much then see number 7.

7. Tasmania’s Heritage Trail

Tasmania is Australia’s best-kept secret. The region boasts beauty in abundance but has somehow escaped consumption by the backpacker trail. It’s also a lot smaller and compact to travel; like a miniature New Zealand!

This was once the gateway to Australia and was where the original convict chain-gangs were set to work colonising the country. The highwaymen that once haunted these high-ways and by-ways are now gone but you still need to be mindful of those damn roos who may surprise you! This is quite a short and pleasant drive – it’s a lot greener too – so is the perfect contrast to the above Australian road trip.

8. The Alpine Way – New South Wales

Did you know you could fit the entirety of old Wales into New South Wales several times over? However, this route is only 121km long so should only take you a day (plus stops).

The best time to come here is in early spring when the snow is melting (yes, Australia gets snow) but you still get the alpine scenery. There are also loads of great, and safe, places to wild camp along the way.

9. Sydney to Melbourne

Ok, so we did kind of dissed the folks who stick to the coast back there. However, the reality is that if you’re gonna fly all the way to Australia, you will most likely either fly to Sydney or to Melbourne first – two of the best places to stay in Australia . Therefore you may as well make a road trip out of it, right?

There are loads of little coastal towns along the coastal route (think Summer Bay from Home & Away) as well as idyllic little spots for fishing and bird watching. This trip is also perfect if you’re short on time, an inexperienced explorer or if your car is not up to the harder, inland roads.

If the mainland somehow feels too big, then take the ferry from Adelaide across to Kangaroo Island . As the name suggests, it’s an almost untouched animal sanctuary so you can expect more kamikaze kangaroos then we care to mention. To battle stations, comrades: they’re rebelling!

You can take your car onto the ferry (it’s the same deal for Tassie by the way) but if you are renting one, please check that the rental company allows you to do this.

Seriously, there’s a whole other post in this but ok. Pickpockets, terrorists, murderers: these aren’t a concern so much in Australia (Ivan Milat notwithstanding) . There are other concerns, however. Especially for travellers unwitting to Australia’s harshness.

The wildlife is, of course, the bad joke of the global community. Crocs, jellyfish, snakes, spiders, sharks… hell, an emu can kill you if it wants. Generally, you stay away from them, then they’ll stay away from you. The big exception is crocs.

Any area where crocs are common in the water (northern areas of Australia in particular), be hella safe swimming. In fact, probably just don’t swim. If a croc gets you, you’re dead: end of story. Australia isn’t some landscape of bloodthirsty man-eating monsters like people seem to think, but you need to pay attention.

Next, swimming safety. A lot of the beaches are rough and tourists have died going past their limits. Be careful swimming on Australia’s beaches: swim between the lifeguard’s flags, watch out for surfers, and if you get stuck in a rip, let it take you until it subsides. Common sense prevails when swimming in Australia.

Are you done, Dad?  No. Two more things

One More Thing: Australia Road Trip Safety

Road trips in Australia are very different from the States, Europe, or most other places for that matter. Maybe it’s comparable to a hot Siberia.

Populated coastlines are different but in rural areas and especially in the Outback, there are a number of things to be careful about:

• Supplies –  Always have enough food, petrol (including extra tanks),  WATER ; it’s quite possible to go days without seeing another human in Australia’s most vast areas and if you breakdown without these things, she’ll probably not be right.
• Stop, revive, survive – Famous safety motto in Australia: take frequent rest breaks and naps if necessary when driving. It’s actually amazing how many people die on Australia’s long, straight, empty roads – counter-intuitive, right? It’s easy to lose concentration when you’ve been driving in a straight line staring at the same dot on the horizon for 6 hours. It’s easy to fall asleep at the wheel and flip your car or smash into a pole at 120+km/h. Be smart.
• Watch out for wildlife –  All the jokes aside about suicidal kangaroos, imagine hitting one. That can be 6+ feet and 80+ kilograms of proper red-blooded Australian muscle and bone crunching your bonnet and coming through your windshield. It’s the same as hitting a person. Hitting wildlife on an Australian road trip can be just as bad for you as it is for them. Plus, they’re so damn cute! Just watch out for them.
• Roadside Drug Testing –  Can be common in some states and areas and the laws are an absolute mess. Just sayin’…

Last Thing! Get Insured Before Travelling to Australia

What if the kangaroos really do form an army and rise up. Do you know how many kangaroos there are in Australia? We’ll never stand a chance!

Na, you’ll be fine. You know why? Because you’re a smart cookie and you got travel insurance!

A wise man once said that if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t really afford to travel – so do consider backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure! Traveling without insurance would be risky. I highly recommend World Nomads .

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

There! Done dad-ing you now. Now you can go and get yourself killed in Australia!

Kidding! You’re not gonna die. You’re gonna have an amazing time. You’ll see some sights like no where else in the world, you’ll face some challenges that’ll help you grow, and at the end of it you’ll say:

“Strewth, mate! Too bloody right. That was pretty fuckin’ orright!”

Have fun, amigos. Australia is truly breathtakingly beautiful and she offers something no other country in this world can. Truly, she is special.

So go hit her up! Take her for a drive – some epic Australia road trips – and go see something you never have before! Take some weed too. It’s a long fucking drive.

Updated: February 2020 by Ziggy Samuels at Zigz Writes Things .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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A Complete 4 Weeks Road Trip Travel Itinerary Around Australia’s East Coast

Thinking about heading to Australia? Need help crafting the ultimate road trip plan? Look no further! Our guide is packed with must-visit spots, top attractions, the coolest activities, tips on where to stay, and the best ways to get around. Get ready for an unforgettable Aussie adventure!

Unless you have a lot of time, at some point, you’ll have to make the tough call on which part of Australia to explore and what your ideal Australia itinerary will look like. The good news is, there’s no wrong choice! Australia has it all—stunning beaches, top-notch surf spots, vibrant cities, and the vast Australian outback.

While we can’t make the decision for you, if you’re leaning towards an epic road trip, why not join us on our 4 weeks Australia itinerary? We’ve got the perfect adventure mapped out for you from Melbourne to Cairns.

What’s the best way to travel around Australia?

Campervan or motorhome rental.

In our opinion, getting a campervan is the way to go if you’re planning a long road trip around Australia.

Buying one could be an option too, but keep in mind you’ll need extra time before and after your adventure to buy and then sell your van.

If you’re looking for awesome deals on campervans, Motorhome Republic is your go-to. They have a super handy search engine where you can save quotes, check out layouts and specs, and compare prices and what’s included in the packages. It’s like your road trip planning sidekick!

If camping isn’t your thing and you want a bit more comfort, you can opt for a regular rental car and stay in hostels or hotels. I suggest checking out for awesome deals on compact car rentals.

But here’s the scoop: Australia gets super busy in the summer, so it’s smart to book your places to stay well ahead of time. It happened to us a few times specially on weekends.

Australia Itinerary

When we landed in Melbourne after 6 months traveling in Asia, at first, we didn’t have an exact plan of what to do in Australia.

We rented a campervan and drove around 5200km and we got to see and experience many cool spots on the road that we would love to share with you.

We arrived in Melbourne very late at night from the Philippines, around 01:00 am so we went to bed immediately, we didn’t have a plan of what to see or do in Melbourne before arriving, luckily Cristian’s friend, David, who lives in Melbourne for the last 7 years, kindly received us in his house and show us around town every day.

The first night we went to have dinner in a Colombian restaurant (can’t believe how I missed that for so long).

On the second day, David took us to watch a football (soccer) game from the national league, at first I didn’t think so many Aussies were into football, but it was a great atmosphere in the stadium.

The next morning we went with David’s family to pick strawberries and blueberries from a local farm and ended up the day eating fish and chips in the park.

Day 1: Mornington Peninsula

A beachy kind of place where the major attractions may be the hot springs, wineries, local produce, or markets, and it is only an hour drive from Melbourne.

We stayed at Rosebud Foreshore Camping, this campground is just in front of the beach, it also has plenty of shade in the camping space (believe us, this is something essential if you don’t have a gazebo or extended shade from the top of your van), remember the sun in Australia is stronger than anywhere else in the world. The facilities were good and also very convenient located near a supermarket and the town.

Powered Campsite: 30 AUD per night

Day 2-4: Wilsons Promontory National Park

Describing Wilson’s Promontory is like talking about something super magical. It is a huge coastal wilderness in Victoria, and people call it ‘ Wilsons Prom ‘. Think of amazing landscapes and lots of cool animals like wombats and kangaroos all over the place. Wilsons Prom is basically a wildlife paradise.

We arrive at the national park after driving 2.5 hours from Mornington Peninsula to Tidal River Campground, the road is in very good conditions and also the scenic drive through the national park is breathtaking.

Tidal River Campground is a unique place to stay (a must-stay in Australia), as you will be camping with wombats wandering around the campsite at night looking for food (please follow the local instructions and do not feed the animals). The location of the campsite is great because it is inside the national park and you have many hiking trails to choose from directly at your doorstep.

Powered Campsite: 37.50 AUD per night

Walks not to be Missed

Mount bishop summit .

One of the best hikes around in our opinion. It has an elevation of 319 Meters and the views at the top are very rewarding where you can see the infamous Squeaky Beach and Whisky Bay. The hike starts at the Lilly Pilly car park, just 20 minutes walk from Tidal River Campground.

Once you do reach the top there is a massive rock where lots of people would think that the walk is finished. But is not, just need to keep walking to the other side and up a few more rocks to get to the top, which is when you will feel very rewarded with the stunning views.

Mount Bishop Summit Distance:  7.4km return Elevation:  319m Track:  Narrow track bit steep but well maintained Level:  Medium

Norman Beach

This is one of the most popular hikes in Wilsons Prom, the track starts just near the Tidal River Campground Visitors Center and will take you trough the bush for around 20 minutes until you get to the southern part of the beach where you can avoid the crowds. During our walk we saw a few kangaroos. If you want to do the entire loop going through the beach back to the campground as we did, it will take around one hour.

Norman Beach Distance:  6.34 km return Track:  The track is generally in good condition and wanders through the bush Level:  Easy

Pillar Point

This is a good hike to see the sunset. To get there, head to the Tidal River Footbridge on the north side of the campground, cross it, and follow the signs that say ‘ Pillar Point ‘. There’s just one junction where you need to go left, but don’t worry—it’s easy to follow with the signs (they are everywhere).

During your ascend, you will have a stunning views of Norman Beach all the way up to the top. Where you will arrive and get to see Norman Beach, Squeaky Beach and Whisky Bay. Make sure give yourself time to sit, relax and admire the wonderful view. But hold on to your belongings as it can get very windy out on the rocks.

Pillar Point Lookout Distance:  4 km return Duration:  40 min one way Track:  The trail is well-used, and even though it goes uphill, it’s not too steep—more like a gentle climb most of the way. Level:  Easy

Day 4-5: Mallacoota

After driving 7 hours from Wilsons Prom we stopped in Mallacoota for a night. A beautiful coastal town with not many attractions, but a massive beach to walk. A beautiful place to spend the night before continuing our road trip.

We stayed at Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park, located a 5-minute walk from the town. It is a very big campground with good facilities and plenty of playgrounds for kids. If you are into fishing, you might want to spend more time here as they hold fishing competitions regularly.

Powered Campsite: 41 AUD per night

Day 5-7: Canberra

After driving 4 hours from Mallacoota we arrived at our next destination, Canberra. This destination is often overlooked by travellers because of its lack of beach we guess, but we honestly believe that this is a mistake. Canberra is like a real Aussie city. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are very cool, but Canberra is unique because it’s not crazy big, there is no traffic, and everyone seem more relaxed. It’s a special kind of city! We rented scooters and drove around Lake Burley Griffin with some stops to have a drink overlooking the lake.

In the morning we were lucky to coincide with the local farmers market that takes place every Saturday from 7 am to 11 am. If you are in Canberra don’t miss this, you will get freshly produced products (bread, meat, milk, etc…) from the farmers.

Staying in a city, it can be difficult to find a campground near the city or transportation so that you can easily explore without having to find parking for your big campervan. We stayed at EPIC Camp Ground, next to where they hold the farmers market. To be honest, it’s not the best campsite, but it is located next to a tram stop so you have easy and cheap access to transportation to the city.

We also met our friend Tim, who we just got to know a few weeks before in the Philippines, he was kind enough to show us some local places for food and drinks.

Powered Campsite: 40 AUD per night

Day 7-8: Durras National Park

Imagine waking up, opening your door, and the first thing you see is kangaroos chilling in the grass outside. This is exactly how it is at Durras Lake North Holiday Park, but don’t tell anyone! This is a well kept secret, and it is 100% guaranteed that you will see kangaroos when staying at this campground. Located next to Durras National Park you have access to several hiking trails and guess what? There is also a beach. No doubt this was one of our favourites places in Australia, wish we could stay longer.

Powered Campsite: 50 AUD per night

Durras Lake Discovery trail 

Easy, family-friendly hike, it took us 45 min to complete the track, with lots of wilderness and beautiful views along the way of Bullshark Bay.

Durras Lake Discovery trail  Distance:  1.5 km return Duration:  45 min Track:  Well maintained Level:  Easy

Day 8-10: Sydney

We finally arrived in Sydney, Australia’s most popular city, it took us 4 hours to drive from Durras National Park. We stayed in NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park, one of the best campsites in terms of facilities and abundance of places for kids to have fun. The location is a bit far from the CBD but the bus stop is just around the corner from the campsite which takes 50 min to reach the city.

Powered Campsite: 55.50 AUD per night

If you are short on time you can do many things in one day as we did. We started the day at Sydney Harbour and the famous Opera House. You can have a coffee or a drink to get ready for what is next, there are many cafes and restaurants in this area to choose from.

Then you can catch the bus from CBD that will take you to the infamous Bondi Beach, this beach is packed with people, so if you want to grab a spot better to arrive early in the day or if you are not a big fan of crowds you can continue walking on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk and you will find a beach that suits you.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

This walk takes around 2 hours (6 km) and you will pass through many beautiful beaches as Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach, Gordons Bay, and Coogee Beach. There are many water refill stations along the way so make sure you bring a water bottle to keep hydrated.

You start at Australia’s famous Bondi Beach, which is a great place to try surfing for the first time. The first stop on the trail is Tamarama Beach, a more chill beach just around the corner from Bondi Beach. It’s not as crowded but equally stunning. Heads up, though—it’s not always the safest for swimming due to tricky waves and currents.

Then you will follow the coastline to Bronte Beach where you will find a nice park with several cafes, if you haven’t had lunch yet this is a very good place to stop and grab something to eat. You will find some natural pools formed by rocks where you can chill for a bit before continuing on the trail.

After Bronte is Clovelly Beach, a very narrow bay ideal if you are looking for a relaxed swim as there are no big waves. After continuing the path you will find Gordons Bay a narrow beach lined with boats, we saw lots of people with scuba and snorkeling gear, guess is a spot to do underwater activities.

The walk continues to your final destination, Coogee Beach. It is a busy place but not as Bondi Beach. This beach is ideal for families and groups of friends as it offers a long stretch of white sand beach and facilities like barbecues and places to picnic.

Here we met our friend Huso, who has been living in Australia for the last 16 years and very kindly showed us around the local pubs to finally get a rewarding beer after this long sunny day.

Day 10-11: Hunter Valley

Australia is well known for its wine so our next stop is a must-visit on your Australia road trip. Located 3.5 hours from Sydney, Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine-growing region and has many wineries.

We stayed in Wine Country Tourist Park, located near Cessnock, it is the closest campground to the wineries in this area. They rented mountain bikes for 30 AUD each (a bit pricey to be honest) and cycled to the nearest wineries. We recommend to take a taxi to the centre of the wineries and walk to the closest ones, this way you have more time (and energy) to do more tastings.

Powered Campsite: 35 AUD per night

We went to two wineries the first one is called Iron Gate just 20 minutes by bicycle from the campground, the tasting menu cost 10 AUD and you get to try 5 types of wines. If you have a preference for grapes they will tailor the selection.

The second winery is called Hanging Tree Wines , this one is another 5 minutes from Iron Gate cycling (by the time you arrive there you are already thirsty). They offer the same kind of experiences but with their own grapes, keep in mind that most of the wines produced in these wineries just exist here and you can’t buy them outside of this region.

So with that, we finish the day in Hunter Valley. Keep in mind most of the wineries close around 4 or 5 PM, our only regret was not staying another day so if you come here we recommend you stay one more day so you get to start early and visit more wineries as there are more than 100 wineries that you can visit.

Below is a small section of the winery map that we got from the campsite, highlighted are the ones we wanted to visit.

Day 11-12: Fingal Bay

The drive from Cessnock to Fingal Bay is 1.5 hours. Our plan was to stay in Nelson Bay, but because it was a weekend and we didn’t book in advance all the campsites were full. Fingal Bay is a nice place to stay with a pristine beach away from the crowds. You can walk from one side to the other side of the beach in around an hour.

We stayed at Fingal Bay Holiday Park just the opposite side of the beach, it has a good location but not much to do in the area.

Powered Campsite: 70 AUD per night

Day 12-13: Pacific Palms

Pacific Palms is famous for its awesome beaches and beautiful lakes. If you’re driving there from Fingal Bay, it’s a nice 2-hour road trip. Imagine a real-life adventure with beaches, lakes, and lots of nature! We stayed in Pacific Palms Caravan Park, the campground doesn’t have many powered sites so make sure you book well in advance. The location is prime, just a few minutes walk to the Booti Booti National Park and Elizabeth Beach.

Powered Campsite: 36 AUD per night

Elizabeth Beach:

Elizabeth Beach is a prime spot in Booti Booti National Park, Pacific Palms. Facing north, this beach is known for its calm waves. The view is something else overlooking Cape Hawke and Seven Mile Beach, it’s like nature showing off its best side! Just 5 min walk from our campinground.

Booti Hill Walking Track via Lakeside Walking

Awesome trail! We kicked off from the Elizabeth Beach entrance, and the whole route clocked in at 9 km in just under 2 hours. It’s a cool mix of strolling through the rainforest and lakeside views. The part along the ocean (rainforest side) is a bit hilly. Keep an eye out for those giant climbing lizards—they’re pretty epic! Only downside is there aren’t many spots to take a break, except for a couple by the lake.

Booti Hill Walking Track via Lakeside Walking Distance:  7.9 km return Track:  The track is generally in good condition and wanders through the bush and then the lake Level:  Easy

Day 13-15: Dorrigo National Park

Located 3.5 hours from Pacific Palms driving up a very steep mountain is Dorrigo National Park – a perfect escape for those who like to hike in mountains and forests. Here we stayed at Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park a campground with a very good location (the closest to the national park) and great facilities, very close to the centre of town where you can find a grocery shop, few cafes, gas station and restaurant.

Dorrigo National Park offers walks for everyone, from easy paved strolls to challenging trails that feel like you’re deep in the wild. If you time it right after some good rain, the waterfalls become roaring spectacles, and the forest transforms into a lush, vibrant green wonderland.

Powered Campsite: 39 AUD per night

The Wonga Walk is the most popular trail in Dorrigo National Park, walking in Dorrigo National Park is like a continuous delight—no boring parts, just pure awesomeness. The air is filled with the constant chatter of vibrant birdlife.

The Wonga Walk offers a mix of slight climbs and descents, but overall, it’s a relaxed stroll. We suggest planning for at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the stunning rainforest. While you could finish it in under 1.5 hours, the waterfalls and captivating forest views make it worthwhile to take your time and soak it all in.

Prepare to be enchanted by mystical plants, trees, and colourful mushrooms, as well as by two breathtaking waterfalls, Tristania Falls and Crystal Shower Falls.

Wonga Walk Distance:  6.1 km return Track:  The track is generally in good condition Level:  Easy

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Day 15-17: byron bay.

Known for its cool beaches and lively community spirit, the Byron Bay region has transformed over the years. What was once a hub for alternative culture, easygoing surfers, and hippies has now become a refined haven, attracting a diverse crowd from barefoot backpackers to Hollywood celebrities. Byron Bay remains a destination that welcomes everyone.

It took us 3.5 hours to drive from Dorrigo National Park to Byron Bay. When we arrived the weather was not the best, it was raining, cloudy, and cold, so the first night we went to bed early and got ready for a great morning the next day. We stayed in Glen Villa Resort they got plenty of power sites with a very cool layout, located just an 8-minute walk to the city centre.

Powered Campsite: 60 AUD per night

The next morning we started our adventure with a short walk under the sunshine in Byron Bay to the scuba diving school. If you didn’t know, we love scuba diving, and when we were in the Philippines we met an old-school Aussie, maybe around 60 years old, with more than 3,000 log dives, who told us one of the most beautiful places to dive in Australia is called Julian Rocks and is just 10 min boat ride from the coast in Byron Bay.

We booked the dives with a Spanish guy, Inaki, who is a freelance diver. He has a very good attitude and is a very enthusiastic diver (if you want his number just drop us an email and we will share it with you). We paid 164 AUD per person for one dive, it is quite expensive, but that’s a normal price in Australia.

We went for our dive in Julian Rocks for 1 hour where we saw many Grey Nurse Sharks, many soft corals, turtles, and all the schools of fish around. Yeah swim with this massive animal, Cristian is a very big fan of sharks and loves to go very close to them, he does enjoy swimming with this ocean predators.

Day 17-19: Nimbin

Nimbin, just 70 km or 1.5 hours west of Byron Bay, is the ultimate hippie hotspot in Australia. Imagine a town of 2,000 people totally into an alternative lifestyle. The cool part is that the locals are also big on art, organic farming, and living sustainably. So, it’s a mix of a laid-back vibe and a commitment to a chill, eco-friendly way of life.

We drove from Byron Bay via Mullumbimby and it turned out to be one of the most scenic drives we had in Australia, you will drive through the mountains and valleys with lots of koala trees if you are lucky you might find one on the way hanging in the trees.

We stayed at Nimbin Crystal Tourist Park, located just 5 minutes walk from the city centre. There are a few hiking trails in the area, but we did not go to any of them as we enjoyed walking around and relaxing in the city. If you are tight on time, one night is enough to experience this small town, but it is definitely worth the drive inland to take a break from the beach and experience the alternative yet respectful way of living.

Powered Campsite: 45 AUD per night

Day 19-21: Brisbane

After having a relaxing time in Nimbin, we decided that it was time to move further north (2.5 hours) to meet a few friends in Brisbane for the weekend (very good nightlife). Going from Nimbin to Brisbane, you will be passing Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast which might be tempting stops on any Australian road trip for its attractive beaches, but they are also very crowded.

We stayed in Brisbane Holiday Village (recommended), a 50-minute bus ride to the city center. This site also has many facilities like mini golf and a pool, so if you have kids, this campsite is for you.

Powered Campsite: 55 AUD per night

Day 21-22: Noosa North Shore Beach

It takes 2.5 hours to drive from Brisbane to Noosa, including a short 5 minutes ferry ride that costs 12 AUD for campervans (one-way). We stayed at Noosa North Shore Beach Campground, and to be honest, it wasn’t worth staying only one night, if you do want to stay here for 2 nights and only 1 in Nimbin, that will probably be better. The campsite is right in front of the beach, a place to just to sit down and take it all in and if you are lucky maybe see some kangaroos around the campsite like we did.

This campsite is not the best location if you want to go to Noosa Heads as you will have to take the ferry again.

Powered Campsite: 54 AUD per night

Day 22-23: Agnes Water

It was a rainy drive from Noosa to Agnes Water, about 350 km, so we arrived quite late and it was one of those days that you want to just sit inside the campervan, listening to the rain and do some work or watch a movie. Creating content and travel at the same time is not what you think, sometimes it can be hard to find time so we have the make the most of the rainy days.

Luckily, this campsite had a takeaway restaurant so we saved some energy not having to cook that night after the long and exhausting drive.

Powered Campsite: 52 AUD per night

We also managed the go on a narrow walking path from the campsite that takes you to the beach, a beautiful beach perhaps 5 km long, maybe more, what a bummer that it was raining the day we were here.

Day 23-25: Cape Hillsborough

If you’re cruising along Australia’s East Coast, here’s a gem for your bucket list: kangaroos on the beach at Cape Hillsborough. It’s like a dream, right? But let me spill the beans—seeing these famous hopping buddies at sunrise is even better! Trust me, it’s like a magical adventure that’s gonna stick in your memory forever.

Cape Hillsborough sits on the east coast of Australia in Queensland, is about 7 hours from Agnes Water, and is roughly 125km south of Airlie Beach. Now, a lot of folks might zoom by Cape Hillsborough, aiming straight for Airlie Beach, but let me tell you, this hidden treasure is worth a little detour.

We stayed in Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park just a few hundred meters from the beach where every morning beautiful wallabies come to the beach for breakfast. Make sure you wake up early before sunrise to catch this beautiful moment. A local ranger is also present to make sure the crowd does not get too close to the wallabies and educates the guests about the animals in the area. An absolutely adorable morning ritual!

Powered Campsite: 47 AUD per night

Near the campsite, you can also find several walking trails, we did the Diversity Boardwalk a tranquil 2.4-km loop trail. A walk that typically takes around 30 minutes, this easy route is a delightful exploration for nature lovers. What’s even better? You’re likely to have the trail mostly to yourself, creating a serene ambiance for a peaceful and uninterrupted stroll.

Day 25-27: Airlie Beach

A town located just 1.5 hours from Cape Hillsborough, Airlie Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the Whitsunday Region of Queensland. It serves as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. We didn’t have the chance to experience the Whitsunday island because all tours were fully booked and quite pricey so we decided to save that for diving in Great Barrier Reef instead. Although, we have heard great things about the snorkelling tours to Whitsunday.

We stayed at Tasman Holiday Park, which is located 25 minutes walk from the city centre. The town of Airlie Beach is very chill and has a lot of nice bars and restaurants. There is also a lagoon pool in the city (free) where people can go swimming since the sea is too dangerous with stingers being present in the area.

Day 27-29: Mission Beach

Imagine a stretch of long, untouched white sandy beach, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, dotted with laid-back coastal cafes, and embraced by hills with waterfalls and inviting swimming holes, that is Mission Beach one of our favorite beaches if not the favorite in Australia.

Many people would rather go to Port Douglas, don’t get us wrong it is a beautiful place to go with beautiful beaches, cafes, restaurants, and a wide range of accommodations. But Port Douglas is more like a city with lots of construction going on, making you feel like a busy place.

That’s why we chose Mission Beach instead, we felt so chill as soon as we arrived almost that slow-life vibe you feel on a remote island in South East Asia. We had that long stretch of beach for ourselves. Make sure you swim in the designated areas as you might be aware of the wildlife in Queensland (saltwater crocodiles, sharks, and many more).

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We finally arrived in Cairns after 2 hours from Mission Beach and 720 hours since we started our trip in Australia. Cairns is the biggest and most popular city to access the Great Barrier Reef. Every year over 2 million people come to explore the magical underwater world. Although you can find tours from other cities as well, Cairns has more options, and to be honest, it was much cheaper to do the tour from here than in Airlie Beach.

Diving in Great Barrier Reef is a dream come true for us. We booked our tour with Silverswift well in advance as this is a very popular tour and they sell out quickly. Make sure you book in advance, either online, or through a booking agent such as Happy Travels, which are located in most cities and they can book for you as well. The crew and the tour was great, we completed 3 dives in the outer reefs. We saw lots of exciting marine life, including Turtles, Manta rays, Maori Wrasse, and the corals are some of the best kept corals we’ve ever seen.

We stayed at The Village Cairns, a hostel in the middle of the city. It is located only 10 minutes walk from the ferry harbour where you take the boat tour.

There are a few nice bars and restaurants and a city mall. There is not much to do in the city, but there are a lot of tours not only to the Great Barrier Reef, but also to the nearby city, Port Douglas, and several wildlife parks. Apart from diving in Great Barrier Reef, we found the other tours a bit too expensive and going to any activities without a car our tour seemed impossible. We recommend to only stay 2 nights in Cairns.

This is the last stop on our epic journey around Australia. We know it’s sad that the road trip is coming to an end, but If you liked Australia just as much as we did, then you might also be planning to do the West Coast on your next trip.

The total distance for this Australia itinerary

And that’s a wrap! We’ve just completed an amazing 4-week virtual road trip around this stunning country together. Now, it’s your turn to share your thoughts. Now is up to you where you want to start first: Melbourne or Cairns.

The total distance for this itinerary is 5,200 kilometres or 3,231 miles.

Remember this distance doesn’t include distances like driving around the cities and towns, if you want to add that to your itinerary, we reckon you should add at least 500 km more to the distance above.

Budget your road trip

To help you prepare for your road trip, we are sharing below how much it cost us to complete this 4 weeks trip (November 2023).

Campervan : 7,983 AUD (This price is for 4 weeks including the full insurance that we do recommend taking so you don’t have to worry if you get hit by a small rock in the windscreen or a flat tire, the price also changes depending on the season and how far in advance you booked).

Petrol: 903 AUD (Diesel).

Campsites: 1,287 AUD (All the campsites were powered but if you feel that could handle few days without electricity, perhaps you could save a bit more on this).

Groceries: 1,785 AUD (This includes all foods, drinks, and other things like spices that you buy only once and keep for the rest of your trip, we also didn’t have any winter clothes and in some parts of Australia was very cold so we had to buy some).

Activities: 1,548 AUD (Diving, wine tasting, football tickets and others)

Public Transport: 76 AUD (Buses and Taxis)

Total: 13,582 AUD (9,100 USD).

The best part of driving with your own vehicle is that you can stop anywhere and don’t need to follow timetables from buses and trains so you have the freedom to decide when and where to go next.

We spent 4 weeks in Australia, our daily spent was 452 AUD (300 USD) for 2 people per day, our average daily travel budget includes all our travel costs in the country and does not include the costs for our flight tickets to and from Australia. We check websites like Budgetmytrip.com to budget for our trips, and here you will find that the average spending is around 340 USD for 2 people per day (November 2023), so we managed to keep it less than that. We like this site because it is fairly accurate and is regularly updated to include recent inflation rates.

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Road trip in australia: an itinerary for the whole country.

G’day mates, I’m here to take you on a 6 month long road trip in Australia.

Well, I’m not actually taking you (although maybe I’ll get the chance to do guided road trips around this beautiful country at some point, watch this space!), but, with this 6 month itinerary for the ultimate Australian road trip, you’ll know exactly where to go and when .

This Australia road trip planner is customizable depending on your wishes, but I’ve added suggested lengths of times in each location. I

’m recommending at least six months to orbit Australia (this Australia road trip itinerary takes you into the centre as well).

Australia is big and some days will consist of just driving.

Also, this itinerary doesn’t include for rest and admin days – so do take that into account when you plan your road trip in Australia.

I’ve also got dozens of more detailed itineraries for different segments of the road trip, as well as city and region itineraries for different parts of the country.

You can click through to them using the links below – all links open in a new window.

So wherever you’re visiting on this island, and whether you’re backpacking in Australia or on a road trip with toddlers , you can use this 6 month itinerary to plan your ultimate Australia road trip.

Shall we begin?

When to take the road trip in Australia?

I recommend that you begin the road trip in Melbourne in March or April.

Of course, you don’t have to begin at this time, or even in Melbourne. Most travellers fly into Melbourne or Sydney, and as Melbourne is the most temperamental weather – wise, I thought it would be nice to give you two chances to see it in its glory.

Plus, Tasmania, which I’ve put on the end of this road trip Australia itinerary, is accessible from Melbourne.

I’d recommend starting your road trip from Melbourne in March or April, as this should give you the best weather everywhere – it’ll be a bit cold in the south at first, but it will quickly warm up.

Then once you’ve returned to Melbourne, you’ll have a summer there!

Of course, if you want to start in Darwin (which is the cheapest place to fly into from Asia), then you could do this loop starting in September or October, skipping the rainy season in the north and arriving back there for the high season.

Bear in mind that some parts of the north, like Kakadu and the Gibb River Road, are inaccessible during the rainy season.

The south is still great during the winter, but may be a bit chilly and it is more rainy. Some rough outback roads all over the country can be closed when it rains.

What to pack for the Australia road trip

I’m going to be writing a full road trip Australia packing list very soon, but here’s some staples you’re not going to want to forget:

• A car or van (just in case you forget!). If you want a car like my Subaru, you can find deals on a Subaru model on KBB, BCP, Edmunds and other huge sites. For my budget, I couldn’t have asked for a better car in Australia. It’s a great vehicle for road tripping, with AWD capacities and a fantastic reputation for reliability – actually, its Outback model is on the Consumer Reports’s best road trip vehicle lists!
• High quality tent if you’re not sleeping in your car/ van
• High quality sleeping bag suitable for both tropical and temperate climates
• Mattress – a blow up, camping mat or full on double inflatable mattress (you might want to opt for the latter if you’re camping for six months).
• An esky – that’s Australian for coolbox, by the way – or a cooler bag .
• A camping stove
• Gas for said stove
• Pots and pans
• High quality torches
• Coolant, oil, jump leads, and a spare fuel tank for the car
• Ask for some of these gifts for campers for Christmas as some extras!
• If you’re planning on doing some serious off-roading and have a 4×4 (only do off-roading in a 4×4!) You might also want some quality 4×4 accessories. Check out Lifestyle 4x4s range here. 

If you haven’t left your home country yet, check out my what to pack for Australia list to check you’ve got all of the essentials covered.

Where to stay during your road trip around Australia

I’m presuming you’ll be camping around most of Australia – download the app WikiCamps to help you find free and paid campsites, and check out my free camping in Australia post to get the basics.

In places where campsites, free or paid, aren’t readily available, I’ve recommended some hostels and hotels.

You can also of course use Airbnb (click here for money off your first booking) and Couchsurfing, depending on your travelling style.

Road Trip Australia Itinerary for 6 Months on the Road

Melbourne: 3 days.

There are so many things to do in Melbourne; it’s been voted the world’s most liveable city time and time again for a reason.

From the wealth of museums to the amazing coffee, to cultural attractions like the AMCI and the Victoria Art Gallery, to the many vintage stores, to the beautiful library, you certainly won’t get bored during your time here!

You might not quite have seven days in the city, but this Melbourne itinerary will help you get to grips with the place.

Oh, and are you conscious of not spending too much at your first stop? I got ya! I had an erm… interesting time in Melbourne where I only had about $14 to my name.

Check out my tips for visiting Melbourne on a budget here.

There aren’t many places to free camp near Melbourne – I stayed at Urban Central Hostel, which is decent (although no free parking). You can book in by clicking here .

Victoria Hotel Backpackers is 5km from the city centre, but does have free parking. Click here to book .

Want to stay somewhere a bit more upscale? The Novotel Melbourne is a good option, close to the centre and with free parking. Click here for rates and to reserve .

Melbourne to Sydney: 1 week

The Melbourne to Sydney road trip is one that’s well-trodden with travelers, but it still isn’t hard to find somewhere that’s a little off the beaten path.

Highlights include Wilson’s Promontory National Park , Lakes Entrance , Eden , camping in a NSW state forest and Jervis Bay .

Once you reach Jervis Bay, if you want, you can take a detour inland to Canberra , the nation’s capital and to the beautiful Blue Mountains National Park – a must-see about 3 hours west of Sydney.

Sydney: 3 days

Sydney’s the most famous city of Australia, and one that all tourists want to visit, but there’s more here than just an opera house. Once you’ve seen the crowning glory from a few different angles – from Darling Harbour, Mrs Macquaries Seat and of course, up close are my favourites – check out some of the other things to do in Sydney.

It’s famous for its beaches of course; Bondi, Glebe and Manly are firm favourites. Click here for my three days in Sydney itinerary. There are some really great hostels in Sydney – although they’re bladdy expensive.

Bounce is really well facilitated, but it’ll set you back around $40 for a dorm room. I also really like YHA Railway Square, where you can stay in dorms in train cabins! Click here to book .

If you want free parking, you’ll need to stay a bit further out. I’ve also stayed in Cambridge Lodge Budget Hostel which is near Newtown – it has cheap dorm rates (for Sydney) and free parking. Click here to book .

If you’re looking for a hotel, Veriu Broadway is in a good location and has free parking. Click here to book .

Sydney to Brisbane: 1 week

The Sydney to Brisbane road trip takes in some amazing nature spots, as well as my favourite place in the world, Byron Bay.

Driving north, you’ll reach Newcastle fun things to do in this town here (check out some ) and Port Macquarie before turning inland towards the Waterfall Way .

This hinterland is beautiful, so give yourself a bit of time to properly absorb it all.

Then head out toward Coffs Harbour and up to Yamba , a chill beach town with some great natural spots.

Then it’s time for Byron Bay and its surrounds – check out these great things to do in Bryon Bay and don’t forget to see its hinterland.

Then you’ll cross into Queensland – the Gold Coast is your first point of call, with Surfer’s Paradise being a place to let your hair down before relaxing on some of the other beaches!

Finally, you’ll arrive into the capital of the sunshine state, Brisbane .

Brisbane: 3 days

Brisbane is often an overlooked Australian city, but it’s well worthy of a spot on your road trip around Australia. It’s a chilled out, breathable place, with lots of attractions to pass a few days in.

Check out the Brisbane Botanical Garden, the Brisbane Museum, the City Beach and the sunset from Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

If you’re already missing nature, head to Stradbroke Island which is very close to the centre and feasible as a day or overnight trip. You could even go camping at Adder Rock if you don’t want to return to the city for accommodation!

City Backpackers HQ is my preferred Brisbane hostel – and it has free parking! It’s reasonably priced and has a bar, a pool, a terrace with city views and $10 nightly dinner deals. Click here to book .

For a hotel option, Ibis Styles is a great option in the middle of the city. Click here for rates and book today .

Brisbane to Cairns: 3 weeks

The most popular one of all the Australian road trips, Brisbane to Cairns is the one where you’ll see the most travellers – and for good reason.

There are tons of amazing spots here, and it’s also the perfect spot to make some friends!

Highlights include Noosa National Park , Fraser Island , surfing at Agnes Water , the Aboriginal cultural centre at Rockhampton , the Whitsunday Islands , Magnetic Island , diving or snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef , and the beautiful Daintree Rainforest .

Cairns is another place you’ll probably be wanting to stay in a hostel – all of the free campsites are quite far out.

Gilligans has free parking, and the rest – it’s a really well facilitated place, with lots going on, but is only for those who are dedicated to partying!

If you want somewhere a bit more chilled, Cairns City Backpackers has free parking as well and has a calm courtyard and good atmosphere. It’s a 15 – 20 minute walk from the centre. Click here for rates and book today .

Want a hotel? Double Tree Hilton Cairns is a great place to relax and unwind! Click here for rates and book today .

You’ll need a four-wheel drive for this segment of the road trip; and it’s somewhere really off the beaten track. Think rainforest, crocodiles, rugged tracks and beautiful beaches, eventually making it to the tip of Australia.

Accommodation on the way will be free camping, and there’s only the odd roadhouse or pub – this is proper off the grid living.

Cape York was a spot I didn’t make it to (and I can’t wait to return to Australia and go!) – here’s a great 7 day itinerary for the trip to the tip .

Cape York to Uluru: 1 week

From the base of Cape York, rejoin the highway and head westwards, towards the Northern Territory border .

You’ll see a really distinct landscape here as the terrain changes, and experience towns like Karumba and Burketown (if you take highway one) or Charters Towers and Mount Isa (if you take the A6).

Either way, it’s a lot of country towns, desolate scenery and hot temperatures! Once you reach the Stuart Highway, turn down and head towards your ultimate destination: Uluru .

You’ll be able to see the attractions on the Stuart Highway on the way back up, but by all means stop at them on the way down as well!

Uluru is an unmissable place in Australia and at least 2 full days should be spent here.

Take some time to walk around the base and see the rock art, do some of the walks in the area to the gorges, and see Katja Tutja on the Valley of the Winds walk.

Uluru to Darwin: 2 weeks

After some time at beautiful Uluru, make your way north. If you have a 4WD or an AWD (or you can do it in a 2WD if you’re daring – do double check road conditions before you head out though!) take on the Red Centre Way .

This is a loop that takes you to King’s Canyon and then to Alice Springs the back way.

You’ll get to check out the West McDonnell Ranges , which are really spectacular, and drive along rough, outback roads. You might see wild ponies and camels!

Then head to Alice Springs for a couple of nights.

Next, head north to Tennant Creek , stopping in Wycliffe Well – the UFO capital of Australia – and at the Devil’s Marbles . You’re approaching the top end now; after Tennant Creek spend a night at Daly Waters , a fantastic pub and campground.

Mataranka has some beautiful springs and sweltering Katherine is your next stop, with the Nitmiluk National Park . Then it’s on to Kakadu National Park and finally, to Darwin .

Darwin: 3 days

I love and hate Darwin at the same time.

It’s a great place to let your hair down and party, if that’s your scene – but the backpacker crowd is typically pretty OTT.

There are some fun things to do in Darwin , however – the Military Museum is a must, as is the Art Gallery and Museum of the Northern Territory.

If you have the funds, a day trip to the Tiwi Islands is a must-do as well.

Plus there’s Charles Darwin National Park and the lagoon which is perfect for a dip on a sweltering Darwin day.

Darwin hostels are… interesting. If you’re there to party and don’t mind sacrificing on sleep and erm a certain standard of cleanliness, Youth Shack is an option – I found the dorms and bathrooms not the cleanest, but there is a really nice pool area. (Have I sold it? Click here if you want to book after my rave review 😉 )

Melaleuca has higher cleanliness, but is even more of a party place (if possible!). Click here for more information .

If you want somewhere chill on a budget in Darwin, I’d recommend staying at a campsite out of the city, finding somewhere on Airbnb – use this link for $44 off your first booking – or Couchsurfing .

I’ve done all of these in Darwin!

The Argus Hotel is modern, comfortable and clean and has a pool and on-site restaurant. Click here for rates and to book .

Darwin to Broome (via the Gibb River Road): 2 weeks

Heading south, your first stop should be Litchfield National Park .

I don’t find it as breathtaking as Kakadu, but it’s worth the stop.

Then head west, towards the border with Western Australia. It’s a long old drive, but once you’ve crossed it, head into Kununurra and check out some of the town’s attractions.

Then it’s time for Lake Argyle – this beautiful spot is perfect for kicking back in for a couple of days. Make sure you stay in the Lake Argyle campsite and enjoy its amazing infinity pool!

If you have a 4WD or AWD (I did it in an AWD, much to a lot of people’s disbelief!), take on the Gibb River Road .

This is my favourite part of Australia – 660 kilometres of gorges, waterfalls, secluded campsites and unmissable nature.

You’ll get off the road at Derby, from which it is a 2-hour drive to Broome.

Broome to Perth: 3 weeks

Spend a few days recharging in beautiful Broome , making sure you don’t miss a sunset!

If you’re there during Staircase to the Moon, it’s well worth checking out.

Gantheaume Point is amazing for dinosaur footprints and cliff jumping, and if you have a 4WD Cape Leveque is a great spot to head up to.

Broome town centre has some interesting attractions which nods to its Indigenous heritage and history as a pearling town. If you’re wanting to stay in the heart of Broome or Cable Beach, you’ll need to pay for accommodation.

I spent a month at Cable Beach Backpackers, which is a small hostel with a really nice atmosphere. Click here for more information and to book .

If you want to stay in Broome town Kimberley Klub YHA is a good option. Click here for rates and book today .

For somewhere a bit more private, try Broome Vacation Village. Click here for more information and to book .

Once you hit the road again, your first stop will be 80 Mile Beach and then Port Hedland .

From Port, you can head southwards to Karijini National Park – one of the best in Australia.

Then head out to the west coast to Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef .

If it is the right time of year, you can go snorkeling with whale sharks here; a bucket list experience.

Diving at the Navy Pier is also incredible. From Exmouth, head south to the country town of Canarvon and then Shark Bay .

Going south more will take you to Kalbarri National Park , Geraldton and then the Coral Coast .

The Indian Ocean Drive here is incredible, as you drive right next to the sea. The Pinnacles, Lancelin and New Norcia round off your west coast itinerary before arriving in Perth.

Perth: 4 days

Perth is my favourite Australian city .

I love the spaciousness, the blue skies, the copious amounts of water. Spend a day in the CBD, seeing the attractions there like Elizabeth Quay and King’s Park.

Day two should be spent in funky Fremantle, a hip suburb with lots of attractions .

On day three, head to the Perth Hills to see another side of the city.

Finally, take a ferry over to Rottnest Island for a slice of island livin’. Billabong Backpackers in Perth offers free parking and also has a pool, a large common area and free breakfast. Click here for more information and to book .

If you’re wanting to stay in Fremantle, the Old Fire Station is the one – check out my review here and book using this link .

OFS does have parking but it’s kind of expensive – I used to park at South Beach and take the free CAT bus there.

For a hotel option, Tribe Perth is clean, contemporary and has free parking. Click here for more information and to book .

Perth to Esperance: 1 week

Once you’ve had your fill of Perth, head back down south (you could stop back into Freo on the way down, I wouldn’t blame you!) toward Margaret River .

This is a beautiful area where you could easily spend a few days. Next on your trip is the karri forests of Pemberton and swing by D’entrecasteaux national park .

There are some amazing beaches around Denmark and Albany , as well as some intriguing natural attractions. Then head to Fitzgerald River National Park and check out the unique biosphere here.

After, it’s time for Esperance , which has a picturesque ocean drive. Head to Cape le Grand National Park after, which has famous white sand beaches and lots of kangaroos.

If you have a 4WD, Cape Arid National Park is worth a visit too, before you head back to Esperance and start the drive north to the Nullarbor Plain.

The Nullarbor: 3 days

The Nullarbor Plain is a place of mystery; it’s a long, arid stretch of road with not much at all to see. But it’s really beautiful, and the feeling of being so in the middle of nowhere is unbeatable.

Take three days to drive it, as you’ll want to take it in properly and avoid driver fatigue. Highlights include Australia’s longest straight road, various quirky road houses and the beautiful Great Australian Bight .

You can free camp near here and watch the sunrise in the morning – it’s a magical experience. At the end of the Nullarbor, the seaside towns of Ceduna and Streaky Bay are worth popping into.

The Eyre Peninsula: 2 days

The Eyre Peninsula juts down at the bottom of South Australia, and is a great destination for 4WDing, beautiful beaches and wild camping.

The terrain varies from what you’ve just experienced on the Nullarbor, and there are a few small towns that are worth checking out around the peninsula.

Port Augusta to Coober Pedy: 4 days

At the top eastern side of the Eyre Peninsula, arriving in Port Augusta will feel like you’ve reached a city. It’s time to head north, up the Stuart Highway, to a town called Coober Pedy.

This is a 550-kilometre detour (plus the return trip) to see a population 3,500 town where everyone lives underground; and I do think it’s worth it.

If you love the weird and wonderful, you’ll find lots of entertaining things to do in Coober Pedy . The drive up there is pretty mesmerizing as well!

Coober Pedy to the Flinders Ranges: 5 days

And the good news is you don’t have to go back the way you came; from Coober Pedy, you can head south east on the Oodnadatta Track – an unsealed but generally in good condition (check before you head out) road connecting the Stuart Highway with the Outback Highway.

You’ll drive around the south side of Lake Eyre (if you have a 4WD and a sense of adventure you might have the chance to go off the track and see it more) and experience even more outback living.

It’s hard to ever get enough, really!

The Flinders Ranges are a beautiful national park that twin mountains and outback – looking otherworldly.

Adelaide: 3 days

From the southern end of the Flinders Ranges, it is about a fiv hour drive to Adelaide (and this is their local national park – told ya Australia was big!).

Adelaide, like Perth, seems to get a reputation for being ‘boring’ but it’s actually a bundle of joy.

The city is really gorgeous, with markets, museums, a great state library and there’s lots of nature around the city, including beaches and vineyards. Make sure you check out the Barossa Valley.

Backpack Oz in Adelaide has a great atmosphere with a bar and organized trips, and is set in a historic building. There isn’t free parking right by the hostel, but there are spots nearby – the hostel staff can advise you. Click here for rates and to book .

If you’re after a hotel, Pullman Adelaide is a good option with free parking. Click here for more information and to book .

Adelaide to Melbourne: 1 week

Between Adelaide to Melbourne, there are a few great attractions, both coastal and inland. Coolong National Park and Mount Gambier are great spots to visit with South Australia, and once you cross over the border, head north towards Gariwerd (The Grampians) National Park .

A couple of hours east from here is the historic city of Ballarat , with attractions geared around its gold-rush history.

From here, zig-zag back down to Warrnambool, where you can enjoy the gorgeous Great Ocean Road. Spend a few days here enjoying the beaches and attractions before completing your loop and reaching Melbourne city once again.

Tasmania: 3 weeks

But your trip doesn’t stop here!

From Melbourne, catch the Spirit of Tasmania over to Devonport .

From here, you can do a circuit of the island state, enjoying attractions like the Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay, the Tasman Peninsula, the capital Hobart (which is worthy of a few days in itself) and the mighty Cradle Mountain . Make sure you check out the north coast and the beautiful town of Stanley as well.

Three weeks is a great time to see everything properly, although because Tasmania is small compared to the rest of Australia, you can do it in less.

You’ll be able to free camp most of the way around Tasmania, but in Hobart, I recommend staying at Montacute Bunkhouse. It’s a beautiful boutique hostel with lots of features to make a really pleasant night’s stay. Click here for rates and book today .

If you want a bit more space, Riverfront Motel and Villas makes you feel like you’re still in nature while being very close to Hobart city! Click here for rates and to reserve .

Then take the spirit back over to Melbourne and conclude your road trip around Australia!

End: Melbourne, VIC in SEPTEMBER OR OCTOBER

You’ve done it! You’ve circumnavigated Australia, seeing the very best of the country.

If you’re in the country on a year’s working holiday visa, you’ve arrived in Melbourne just as the summer kicks off and the city comes alive. You’ve even got time to do your regional work for another year down under!

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13 thoughts on “ Road Trip in Australia: An Itinerary for the Whole Country! ”

Oh my goodness, this itinerary is AMAZING!!! What an adventure you would have had!! This is a total dream for my husband and I. I’ve stayed at the Urban Hostel in Melbourne, it’s a great little hostel. I wonder did you do much freedom camping? We dream of kitting out a van or minibus but we’ve heard it can be hard to find places to camp free. Will be bookmarking this itinerary to come back to if we’re lucky enough to get to do this trip someday!

I’m glad you enjoyed this Rhiannon! Are you based in Australia currently? It’s a cool spot isn’t it! Yes I did mainly free camping 🙂 Wikicamps has lots of options and I never had any issues – many of them are serviced by pubs or roadhouses so I just spent a little in the establishments. I have an article about free camping in Australia as well! I hope you get to do this trip, it’s not too expensive and it’s the adventure of a lifetime!!

Hi Claire! Going to Australia early in may to do my 3 months of work asap after arrival. Hopefully i will be ready to kick off my roadtrip somewhere in september starting in Southwestern Aus and travelling the country in a –> (N) <– looking route if you can understand what i mean. Doing this because a want the eastcoast summer and will probably stay there for a while. Im guessing this will take me approximately 7 moths to complete, I dont really have a timeline, but would like to get a full year on my second year visa to settle down and work etc.

What do you think about the route, does it make sense to you considering the weather and all or does it sound completely crazy?

Thank you for your inspo, noted many tips from you! 😉

I think it’s a great idea to do your farm work as soon as you get there. You should be able to find something in Southwestern, I’m not sure what the harvest seasons are like in Margaret River but I know it’s a popular spot for farm work.

In September I actually think I’d go the other way. It’ll be warming up by then down south, you’ll get over to the east coast around November and will still be there for summer (although you don’t really need to be there then above Brisbane, I’d say spring/ autumn are better weather, it is rainy season during the summer as well!), and then after summer you’ll get to enjoy the NT and the Kimberleys after the wet season (when waterfalls are at their best).

The other way would work too, but you’d need to rush the west coast/ Kimberleys/ NT to get it done before the wet season starts and they’re not places you want to rush, trust me!

But do whatever you think is best depending on your preferences 🙂 Let me know if you have any more questions and I’m glad the blog helped!

This looks like an awesome trip! I will probably fly to Australia at the end of august/ beginning of september. Not sure where I will be landing yet, keeping my options open for now. If I would want to start this roadtrip , where would you suggest me to start if i would want to start in september?

Your blog is very helpfull btw!

Hi Claire, We are a family of four (kids 3y and 5y) living in Rocky for one year. We are thinking of a roadtrip Rockhampton-Cairns-back to Townsville-Alice springs- Kings canyon- Aderlaide-Melbourne in 1,5-2 months. What do you think about that? We have a 2w car at the moment, would that be enough? Also thinking about getting a camper trailer for this roadtrip, or du you think it would be enough B&B, motels or hostel on the way to be ok? And we are thinking about doing it between May-August sometime. Or is it preferable a 4W car doing that roadtrip? We are just in the beginning of this plan, so I am happy with every advice you can give me. Regards Frida

Amazing! Your itinerary sounds good, although I’m guessing with kids you’ll want to add some time on so I’d definitely go towards 2 months in your case. As far as I know the only way you’d get from Townsville to Alice Springs on a 2WD track is via Tennant Creek, certainly doable but it will take a while. There is the Outback Way that stretches from Queensland all the way to Western Australia via the red centre but that’s 4WD only.

I love camping and would always recommend it, it does save a lot of money as well. If you’re happy to use tents they’re a great option without having to get a camper trailer! If not, you could probably just about get by without (staying at roadhouses and hostels in bigger places) but I wouldn’t want to say 100%.

May – August is a good time! It might be a bit cold in the south, so you might want to opt for some indoor accommodation then, but it’s still beautiful.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

Claire, I have been planing a solo Australian cross country driving trip from Sydney to Darwin. What have learned is that car rental in Australia is different then USA. My original plan was to land in Sydney, rent a suv and start driving but it doesn’t seems that easy due to your car rental laws.

That said would you be able to advise the best approach to achieve my goal.

Kind regards Tom K. [email protected]

So I’m actually British but spent a long time in Australia, I bought a car in Melbourne no problem and sold it again 8 months later. I did however rent a car in Australia and didn’t have any issues. What is the problem that you are finding with the car rental? Let me know and hopefully I can help!

Hi Claire, I am planning to do road trip with roughly the same itinerary, and I was wondering wether you think a 4*4 car is necessary or not ? And weather 4 or 5 months would be enough to do it? Thanks, Taís.

Myself, my partner and our 2 yr old son are planning to go from Melbourne to Broome via Perth along the West Coast. Then possibly up to Darwin and back down through Alice Springs to Melbourne. We are taking a caravan with us. Firstly, do you think it’s going to be too long and uncomfortable for a 2 old to cope with being on the road so long. And also is 2 months long enough for this trip?

This is a great itinerary! I’m looking to come to Aus and do a roadtrip of as much of the country as possible without rushing too much. I’ll be there late May-August. How much do you think is doable for 3 months? What would you cut out to squeeze this itinerary down?

Thank you!!

hi lovely! wow your trip looked incredible! what an experience. i have 2 months with hubby and 2 kids to do round trip… any tips? i am using some of your stop off as the base 😀

starting in canberra.. wondering if we should head clockwise or anticlockwise? will be starting in june next year (ideally). driving in a 4wd with pop top tent.

thank you any feedback would be amazing. i have no idea where to start..

love from an amateur

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Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary: A Complete Guide

Australia’s East Coast is one of the most popular places in the world to travel. It spans the length of Queensland and into New South Wales, and features the larger cities of Cairns and Brisbane. With its world class beaches, ancient rainforests, endless adrenaline activities and charming towns, it’s truly a destination like no other. So the main aim of this guide is to equip you with everything you need to know to plan your own Australia East Coast road trip itinerary.

I’ve done three road trips along Australia’s East Coast (mad, I know!). The first time, I joined an organised tour from Brisbane up to Cairns. It was fast paced and more fun than I could have ever imagined. The second time, I chose to do the journey more slowly in a camper van south from Cairns to Byron Bay. For the third visit, I did an awesome but far shorter one week road trip from Byron Bay to Noosa. So I feel I’ve got really sound experience in devising an East Coast itinerary.

One of the best things about the East Coast of Australia is the sheer variety in things to do. On each East Coast trip, I’ve ended up doing completely different things and each road trip has been equally incredible.

If you’re trying to decide which direction to travel the East Coast, there aren’t really any overarching reasons to go one way and not the other. The biggest factors will be around your plans before and after the East Coast, plus the time you have available. If you are planning to take 6+ weeks, I would suggest perhaps starting in Cairns. Then you could carry on driving south past Brisbane and on towards Sydney and Melbourne.

For the purpose of this blog post, I will share an Australian East Coast road trip itinerary starting in the tropical city of Cairns in the north. From here, the itinerary will weave south past pristine beaches, rugged mountains ranges, waterfalls, tropical rainforest, charming surf towns, some of the world’s best diving spots, as well as the epic K’gari island (also known as Fraser Island).

This guide is aimed at all travellers, with suggestions for both backpackers and those on a slightly bigger budget throughout. It can be used for anyone travelling in Australia as it covers all the best things to do along the East Coast.

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Essential things to know

Wow, so where to start! Some of the most important things to consider for an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary are time of year to visit, vehicle type and budget. So let’s get stuck in!

When is the best time to travel the East Coast of Australia?

First things first – when is the best time of year to plan a road trip for Australia’s East Coast?

As you can see below, Australia is a huge country. You can fit about two thirds of Europe into its land mass. And therefore, the weather across the whole of Australia does vary, especially more so in the Australian winter months (May to September). I’ve summarised this below, but do make sure to check out my detailed Australia climate guide too.

Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, is the largest northernmost town on the East Coast and has hot weather year-round. However, this is divided into two distinct seasons – wet and dry.

During the Australian winter ( May to September ), Cairns experiences warm, dry weather and low crowds .

During the Australian summer ( November to April ), Cairns is hot and humid, with plenty of rain . This tropical monsoonal starts building up in December and by January, the rains are mostly daily and can be torrential.

Although the days can still be hot and sunny, the tropical rains can make diving conditions more challenging, and visibility worse for seeing underwater life. And as Cairns is popular for diving, it could be a real shame to visit and not be able to enjoy this fully.

Another key factor with Cairns and the surrounding area is stinger season. This refers to the presence of tiny stinging box jellyfish in the water. The sting can be extremely painful, and can be fatal in some cases. If you do visit in the months when this is at its worse (Jan to March), you will have to wear stinger suits in the water.

So, where possible, visiting Cairns in the Australian winter means long, sunny days, with minimal rain and no stingers in the water. As mentioned above, conditions for diving in the Great Barrier Reef are optimal with perfect water temperatures and visibility in excess of 50m. It’s also an excellent time to see the magnificent Daintree Rainforest at its best and full of life. Furthermore, the water levels are ideal so white water rafting is an awesome activity to during this time, but can often be too dangerous during the months from January to March.

From personal experience, I found the weather in Cairns during August/September to be perfect. We were able to experience every activity and as this is the start of spring, there was plenty of colour and life in the plants and trees. On my second road trip, we were in Cairns in the month of December which was still quite good, although noticeably hotter and humid. It was early December and we experienced no rainfall, but prices for accommodation were higher. I also got stung by a rogue stinger who had made an early arrival into the waters in the Great Barrier Reef. It was very painful for about 30 minutes, and then the sting subsided.

So to summarise, it depends on the activities you plan to do in Cairns as to when is the best time to visit, but generally the months from May to September are best.

Then, at the southern end of Queensland is Brisbane. It receives some of the most enjoyable and reliable weather in Australia throughout the year. It has a warm-temperate climate, meaning there are few days you’d need a jumper.

As with Cairns, the Australian summer from January to March bring the hottest and most humid weather . During this period is the highest chance of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, although they are mostly in the late afternoon.

The best time to visit Brisbane is April to May and September to November , when temperatures are comfortable and humidity and rainfall are low. However, June through to August is also a great time to go to Brisbane, but the temperatures are slightly cooler.

I found Brisbane in the months of September and December to be really lovely, with long hot, sunny days. However, visiting Brisbane and the surrounding area in February did bring a lot of rain.

So when should I plan my East Coast road trip?

Overall, visiting Queensland, which spans from Tropical North Queensland to just south of Brisbane, is best avoided from January to March in order to have the best experience for most activities. If you’re embarking on a longer Australia trip, then it might be best to spend these months in New South Wales (Sydney and surrounds) and Victoria (for Melbourne and surrounds), as the weather here is at its peak from January to March. The same goes for visiting the Outback, which is generally best visited from April to October/November.

If your Australia trip is focused purely on the East Coast, with the Cairns to Brisbane road trip being the primary focus, then a trip from May to August would be the best time. This also avoids stinger season completely. It would be slightly cooler in Brisbane, but you would still unlikely need a jumper or a jacket.

If you’re on a longer trip in Australia, then as just mentioned, you could spend December – March exploring Victoria and New South Wales, before then heading to the East Coast from April onwards. Alternatively, you could do the Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary during August, September and/or October, before heading down to Victoria and New South Wales onwards for the better weather during the Australian summer.

How long does it take to travel East Coast Australia?

If you’re short on time, then it can be done in two weeks. This would cover the highlights. If you can spare longer, perhaps 4-6 weeks you’ll have enough time to see and do just about everything, and have some time to relax!

If you have two months or so, then an awesome adventure would be to drive from Cairns to Melbourne which would easily take in some of the very best parts of Australia. You’d traverse through some seriously different climates and experience both the tiniest beach towns as well as the huge, cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Melbourne.

Should I go for a car or a camper van for my East Coast road trip?

Any road trip in Australia is best with a camper van. The freedom is unparalleled and you can truly travel at your own pace.

With a camper van, you can adjust your itinerary more easily and generally, it offers better value as the camper van doubles up as your accommodation each night. However, a camper van isn’t for everyone as space can be challenging.

The main camper van companies in Australia are:

• Spaceships Rentals
• Wicked Campers

Pros and cons of a camper van

• Can save costs on more expensive hotel or lodging accommodation
• It can save money on food costs as you have your own stove/kitchen area in the van which is great for easy breakfasts and some dinners
• Is a good way to split fuel costs between friends if there’s a few of you
• You can easily stay longer somewhere you like if you don’t need to look for accommodation
• There are many free campsites, motorway rest stops or areas to park and sleep overnight (check Wikicamping and the state parks’ app/websites )
• You can sleep and wake up so much closer to nature
• You don’t need to carry suitcases or bags in and out of hotels
• In the busiest months, the cost of a camper van can be steep
• You will spend more on fuel as the vehicle is heavier
• Making the bed each night can get a little tiring and sand from the beaches gets everywhere
• You can’t really keep the air-con on overnight without draining the battery, so it gets hot!
• Also, it’s likely you will lose stuff within the van all the time. There are just way too many cubby holes and spaces for things to fall down
• There may be some days you go without a shower
• Can be moments where it’s difficult to park, especially if you visit cities like Brisbane
• There are many ways to lose money from your deposit with a camper van as there are so many more parts to it to break!

If you really fancy resting your head somewhere a little more comfortable each night, then a car is a great option. You still have a huge amount of freedom, but just slightly less freedom as you do need to find somewhere to sleep each night.

Pros and cons of hiring a car

• Lower initial cost for renting a vehicle
• Also lower petrol costs
• Easier to park in general
• You have a boot to keep your suitcase in, and act as an on-the-go wardrobe space
• Less risk of losing things as the vehicle is way smaller
• No need to go without showers and guaranteed a slightly more comfortable and cooler sleep every night
• May save money if hotels, lodges etc include breakfast in the rate
• Need to find a place to stay each night, which can be expensive and time consuming/stressful in peak season
• In my option, there’s a slight less feel of ‘adventure’ with a normal hire car, as opposed to a camper van

Joining an organised tour or using bus services

I joined an organised tour one year with Topdeck (read all about the trip here ). Generally, I don’t tend to join multi-week tours but it was aimed at students and more than 40 of my friends booked on. So as you can imagine, it was one of the best experiences of my life. I enjoyed some awesome adventures each day, with nearly all meals and activities included, it was excellent value. Except for skydiving, all other activities were already paid for, including bungee jumping, white water rafting and admission to the Australia Zoo.

Organised tours along the East Coast of Australia are very popular, but naturally, they don’t allow for any freedom or adjusting the itinerary at all. However, it can be a great way to meet people and have all logistics taken care of.

Some great companies include: Contiki , G Adventures , the Oz Experience, Intrepid

Stray also has a great value Cairns to Sydney bus pass, which you can book online here .

Another alternative is to use bus services such as Greyhound or Premier. Both of these companies offer dozens of buses stopping at hundreds of convenient stops across the East Coast every day. Plus, you can book the tickets just the day before and sometimes on the day, which can be really handy. If you don’t fancy driving the East Coast yourself, this is a great way to travel. They also offer hop-on hop-off bus passes which can be great value – for example, Greyhound has a bus pass that covers you for 90 days and starts at around $349.

Greyhound offers the slightly more expensive bus tickets of the two, but the buses are comfortable and offer on board Wi-Fi.

Finally, I wouldn’t recommend planning to do this trip by hitchhiking. It’s not as common as movies might suggest!

Eating on the East Coast

Three meals a day, plus snacks and coffees/drinks can add up quickly when travelling in Australia.

Fortunately, BBQ-ing in Australia is every bit as popular as you might imagine. There are gas BBQs all over Australia in parks, by beaches, in national parks and next to boardwalks. They are free to use and really easy to operate, most having utensils to use too. There’s always plenty of table space nearby and it’s one of the most easy ways to assimilate into Australian life, as these are equally popular with locals and tourists.

Supermarkets are really geared up to this, and their meat section sells all kinds of meats in different marinades, making it really easy. Furthermore, they always have a delicatessen section with choose-your-own salad bowls and side dishes. It couldn’t be more simple to pull together an amazing BBQ spread in Australia.

The big supermarket chains are Woolworths and Coles, which have the most competitive pricing and a huge range. In some smaller locations, you might find an IGA or a SPAR which can be a tad more expensive.

When you don’t feel like cooking or don’t have the chance to do a food shop, there are popular fast food chains such as Hungry Jacks and Pie Face, or smoothie chains like Boost. I personally prefer to sample the local food in cafes in town, or a family-owned fish and chip shop instead. There are also plenty of pubs in Australia, which are pretty cheap but the quality can be a bit iffy (like Wetherspoons in the UK).

A popular place for a pub-like meal on a Sunday is the local Surf Life Saving Club, and you’ll see these dotted all along the coastline – particularly in the Gold Coast. Mostly aimed at local members, they nearly all welcome in tourists (with sign-in at the door). It’s a very Australian experience if you like beer, local live musicians and ridiculously big portions of chips, nachos and battered fish!

Then of course there are excellent restaurants all across the East Coast.

Deciding where to stay on the East Coast – hotels, lodges, hostels or camping

Even if you do the road trip along the East Coast in a camper van, there will be some nights where you’ll need to opt for a campsite for its shower facilities.

And there are hundreds of campsites along the East Coast. Some are your traditional pitch and stay camping grounds, and some are huge, expansive holiday resorts. Whilst these are typically aimed at domestic travellers, everyone is welcome and you may be blown away by the facilities.

The best resources for campsites on the East Coast of Australia are:

• Pitchup (can book directly on this site too)
• Tourism Australia
• Camping in Queensland
• Camping in NSW

The East Coast is also home to hundreds and hundreds of hostels. There are also some hostel chains in Australia, and nearly always one where you’re travelling. The two biggest chains are Nomads and Base. Staying in one of these means a fairly reliable and comfortable experience. The dorms are clean and secure, and the social areas are often amazing. Staying in hostels add to a quintessential Australia experience. I’ve had some brilliant stays and met some awesome people.

However, I prefer now to travel and stay in hotels where possible. On my most recent visit to Australia, we had a hire car and spent our nights in various Airbnbs and hotels along the East Coast. We stayed in some amazing Airbnbs, including a treehouse in the Gold Coast and a Balinese style villa in Noosa.

However, throughout this itinerary I will suggest a couple of options for each destination that cover campsites, hostels and hotels. I’ve managed to stay in all three types nearly everywhere along the East Coast now, so I’ve got some good experience!

Money and Budget

The currency in Australia is the dollar (AUD). Generally across Australia card payments are widely accepted, and contactless is very popular as the limit is $200.

For slightly more remote locations or for any really small villages you visit, I would recommend keeping cash on hand.

In terms of budgeting, prices are approximately the below:

Accommodation:

• Camping site (tent) – $10-20 per night
• Camper van spot at campsite – $20 – $50 per night, depending on size and facilities of the campground/holiday resort
• Double room in a value hotel or holiday resort: $100-140
• Double room in a 4 or 5 star hotel: $200 – $300 depending on time of year you visit

Food (based on two people):

• On-the-go coffees: $9
• Fast food or take away meal: approx $20
• Local cafe or pub meal: $60
• 3 Course meal in a good restaurant: $140-200

In terms of alcohol, it’s not sold at supermarkets but instead at bottle shops such as Dan Murphy’s. Prices are a little more than in the UK and the US, but they do sell boxed wine, affectionally called ‘goon’ in Australia. Boxed wine doesn’t taste the best BUT it’s cheap and lasts longer than a bottle!

Excursions and activities are likely to be your greatest expenditure. There are so many bucket list activities on the East Coast of Australia vthat I highly recommend putting budget aside so you can make the most of these. As an indication, here are the approximate prices of several activities:

• Animal sanctuary entrance fee: approx $40 per adult
• 15,000 ft sky dive in Cairns: $359 per person (not including video or photos)
• Entry to Daintree National Park and canopy walk: $35 per adult

As an approximate guide, the AUD to GBP conversion is roughly half. So animal sanctuary entrance is around £20 ($40).

The AUD to USD conversion is about 1.5, so animal sanctuary entrance is around USD $25 (AUD $40).

Finally, fuel in Australia is similar in price to the UK, but more expensive than the USA. Fuel for the whole route could cost around AUD$600-800, or more depending on detours you might take.

Deciding where to go on your Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So you’ve decided when to embark on your epic road trip, and you’ve got your vehicles or bus pass sorted. Now the fun part – deciding where to go!

If you can’t already tell, I love the East Coast of Australia. It has everything AND warm weather year round.

As mentioned above, I have driven the route in both directions but my favourite was probably the Cairns to Brisbane drive. This would also be considered the most iconic road trip for the East Coast of Australia too. It spans world class beaches, dozens of stunning national parks as well as incredible Great Barrier Reef and the twinkly Whitsunday Islands.

So for the purpose of this blog post, we’ll be starting in Cairns but this itinerary can be modified in any way, and of course started in Sydney, Byron Bay or Brisbane. I also list the minimum to maximum number of days needed in each place to help you plan and decide where to visit.

The most important thing to remember is that Australia is BIG . The Cairns to Brisbane road trip spans 1,682km (or 1,045 miles), and that’s taking the most direct route without any detours. It’s around 19 hours of driving if you were to go straight through. There are also some seriously long stretches of driving without any major towns or stops too.

One thing you must remember is to fill your car or van with fuel whenever you can. Never leave a town with less than a full tank – I speak from experience!

So without further ado, let’s jump in with our first stop, Cairns!

Suggested time for Cairns: 3-5 days

This tropical city is one of my favourite places in Australia. Although the town is somewhat unassuming, the adventures to be had in and around Cairns are epic!

The relaxed tropical lifestyle in Cairns will ease you in to an Australia road trip, but could also make a relaxing end point too to your road trip.

Cairns could easily be one of the places where you choose to spend longer, but only if your budget allows. There are countless awesome sights to see and places to visit in Cairns , but the tours can add up and makes Cairns quite an expensive stop. That being said, one of the best things to do in Cairns is free – and that’s spending the day at the incredible Esplanade Lagoon in the heart of town.

Best things to do and see in Cairns

Free or low cost:

• Cool off and relax in the magnificent Cairns Lagoon
• Take a road trip to the Daintree Rainforest at Cape Tribulation via Port Douglas
• Spend the day in the Behana Canyon, a swimming hole surrounded by dense rainforest. Why not join this tour .
• Eat and drink your way around some of the beautiful waterside restaurant and bars
• Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre

More expensive but bucket list activities:

• Join a boat trip to the incredible Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel or learn to dive
• Take a boat out to the stunning Fitzroy Island
• Brave the ultimate leap of faith at the AJ Hackett bungee jump centre
• Go ATV riding in the rainforest
• Take the train to spend the day at the Kuranda Rainforest Skyway , an awesome journey across the rainforest finishing at the epic Mossman Falls
• Enjoy a hop on hop off beer and drinks tour of Cairns
• Join a tour of the Atherton Tablelands , and visit beautiful waterfalls and scenic lakes (including the famous Milla Milla Falls)
• Enjoy a foodie tour and wine tasting in the Atherton Tablelands
• Visit the Daintree Rainforest and enjoy Cape Tribulation .

Blow-the-budget fun:

• Book a super special day on the Sunlover Reef pontoon , where you enjoy all the activities at this mini village floating on the Great Barrier Reef
• Organise a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, a true once in a lifetime experience, or even a scenic flight !
• Enjoy an epic skydive over Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay in Cairns

In Cairns, there are no free camping options in the city centre, but there are some paid campsites on the edge of town. Make sure to check this guide on camping near Cairns .

And here are my best picks for accommodation in Cairns:

Best luxury stay: Shangri-La at The Marina (£90pn) or the Pullman Reef Casino (from £97pn)

Great value mid-range stay: Pacific Hotel Cairns (from £63pn)

Best hostel: Gilligans Backpacker Resort (dorm from £17pn, private room from £70) has some of the best facilities I have experienced anywhere. It’s a lively party place but does also offer great value if you book out a 4 or 6 bed dorm for your group.

Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest

• Suggested time for the Daintree Rainforest: 1-2 days
• Driving distance from Cairns to Port Douglas: 68km (1hour) along the Captain Cook Highway
• Driving distance from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation: 75km (1h30)

This beautiful corner of Australia is home to the Daintree Rainforest, which is the world’s oldest! It is also unique as it the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

Cape Tribulation however is considered one of the most dangerous beaches in the world. This is due to the huge population of crocodiles that reside here, as well as the often-fatal stings from Box Jellyfish in the water.

Whilst driving to Cape Tribulation can easily be done as a full day trip , it’s well worth an overnight stay if you have the time. I would perhaps recommend opting for a small hire car for the day, instead of taking a camper van however. The roads can be narrow and difficult to drive, especially as you get deeper into the rainforest. Note that driving further north from Cape Tribulation towards Cooktown and the Cape York Village requires a 4WD and some previous experience essential as the tracks here are very challenging.

Port Douglas on route is also a beautiful upscale resort town which is definitely worth a stop for a few hours. The beach is beautiful and over four miles long, and its main street is packed with quirky shops and independent cafes and restaurants. If you visit on a Sunday, make sure to check out the beachside markets too.

In terms of activities in the Daintree forest, there are plenty:

• Soar above the rainforest on a zipline adventure
• Explore the rainforest from the elevated walkways
• Take on some of the best hikes, including the Mount Sorrow hike
• Spot crocodiles on a river cruise on the Daintree River
• River drift snorkelling near Port Douglas
• Explore the deserted and untouched beaches, and see where the rainforest meets the reef
• Visit the Daintree tea plantation
• Swim in the Mossman Gorge

The Cairns to Port Douglas drive is spectacular, with the road weaving between the rainforest and the azure ocean. The views are stunning. From Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation, the road is often surrounded by the dense, lush rainforest and you have to take a small ferry to cross the Daintree River. I’ve written a complete itinerary guide to driving from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, so make sure to check this out.

In terms of places to stay in Port Douglas or Cape Tribulation, there are some wonderful eco-stays including:

• Niramaya Villas & Spa (around £450pn)
• Noah Creek Eco Huts (around £157pn)
• Thala Beach Nature Resort (around £220pn)

In Port Douglas, there is also the beautiful Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort (from £129 pn) too or the stunning Shantara Resort (from £229 pn).

Alternatively, you can of course join a day trip, such as this one which is a full day exploring the Daintree rainforest, the Mossman Falls and Cape Tribulation . Or this day trip, which includes a stop at Port Douglas and Wildlife Habitat .

Mission Beach

• Suggested time for Mission Beach: 1-2 days
• Driving distance from Cairns to Mission Beach: 139km (1h50)

Next stop, Mission Beach. In my opinion, the drive from Cairns south is stunning with the Bruce Highway bordered on both sides by sugar cane plantations, followed by banana trees. The first moderate sized town is Innisfail, which I personally don’t think is worth a stop. So I recommend heading straight to Mission Beach. Make sure to look out for cassowaries at the side of the road!

Mission Beach is popular with backpackers for its laidback vibes and excellent beaches. What it lacks in obvious activities and sightseeing opportunities, it makes up for in huge stretches of glorious sandy beaches and walking tracks in the rainforest. I’ve only ever stopped at Mission Beach in October and December which is stinger season, so we could not enter the water.

I would recommend a night in Mission Beach, especially as it provides a decent break in the long drive between Cairns and Townsville, which is the next large town (347km, 4hrs). Mission Beach is also right next to Tully’s River, which is home to some of the best white water rafting in Australia.

Book your white water rafting trip to Tully’s River here!

Where to stay in Mission Beach

• Best luxury stay: Castaways Resort & Spa Mission Beach (from £100pn)
• Good value mid-range stay: Mission Reef Resort (from £54 pn)
• Best hostel: Jackaroo Treehouse (from £30pn)

Townsville & Magnetic Island

• Suggested time for Townsville: half day (but longer if visiting Magnetic Island)
• Driving distance from Mission Beach to Townsville: 235km (2h40)

This large town is largely residential and also home to a big Australian military and naval base. I personally don’t think there’s a huge amount to see in Townsville but it is home to my absolute favourite wildlife sanctuary in Australia, which is the Billabong Sanctuary .

I cannot recommend stopping at this amazing wildlife sanctuary more! It’s the perfect place to meet a whole host of the most iconic Australian animals, such as the echidna, wombat, koala and kangaroo. Billabong Sanctuary is a really well-run wildlife centre, with lots of opportunities for animal interaction, plus the location itself is beautiful. It’s located 17km south of Townsville, so you could spend the afternoon there as you continue on your road trip south.

Townsville is the starting point for the ferry to Magnetic Island. This slice of paradise is popular with backpackers but a little less frequented by other types of tourists. I haven’t been to Magnetic Island, so I cannot comment from personal experience but I understand it’s super-laidback and full of beautiful, scenic spots. Make sure to book your ferry tickets from Townsville to Magnetic Island in advance here.

If you do choose to spend a night in Townsville, the Oaks Gateway Suites offer great rooms at a good price (£67 pn). Alternatively, there is a BIG4 Holiday Park at Rowes Bay with beachside cabins from £50.

Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays

• Suggested time for Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays: 2-5 days
• Driving distance from Townsville to Airlie Beach: 273km (3h10)

Airlie Beach is the gateway to The Whitsundays, and this stop is a must-do on any East Coast road trip itinerary. Make sure to read my detailed guide to visiting the Whitsunday Islands here .

The town itself is popular with backpackers, although there are few luxury hotels. Those on a slightly smaller budget or tighter time frame can visit The Whitsundays on a full day boat trip.

But if you have time, then I highly recommend splurging on a sailing trip around the Whitsundays. You can spend around 2-3 days on living onboard a sailing boat, where you can snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef and visit Whitehaven, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Alternatively, you could stay on one of the Whitsunday Islands for a couple of nights, for the ultimate barefoot paradise experience.

There are some amazing resort hotels in The Whitsunday Islands, with the InterContinental Hayman Island being one of the very best stays.

I’ve done both a sailing trip and a 3 night stay on the islands, and I honestly couldn’t say which I preferred. Both were incredible.

For day sailing trips, you could wait to book this in Airlie Beach, but you risk the boats being full, so I recommend booking a tour in advance. Here are a few excellent suggestions:

• Whitsundays Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Adventure from Airlie  (£108pp)
• Half Day Whitsunday & Whitehaven 6-Hour Cruise  £63pp)
• Whitsundays Ocean Rafting Tour: Snorkel, Walk & Whitehaven  (£85pp)

For 1 or 2 night sailing trips, you could check the below companies:

• OzSailWhitsunday s (2 day, 2 night trips) – starts at £208pp
• Whitsundays Sailing Adventures  (offer a 1 night sailing trip) – starts at £216pp
• The same company also offers an awesome  3-day, 2-night sailing and diving trip  – starts at £390pp
• Red Cat Adventures  (2 nights) – starts at £260pp
• Wings Whitsundays Adventure  (2 nights) – starts at £260pp
• ProSail offer 2 or 3 night sailing adventures – starting at £398pp

Back on Airlie Beach, there isn’t a huge amount to do, so if you choose to visit the islands as a day trip, you could spend a relaxing day at the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

But this could be a place to splurge and explore the Whitsundays from a difference perspective entirely. For example, this  1-hour scenic flight over the Whitsundays Island archipelago  looks incredible, or what about a  tandem skydive over the Whitsundays ?

Or you could go all out with a  helicopter trip to the Whitsunday Islands . It even lands on Whitehaven beach – possibly the most incredible day imaginable.

Slightly further inland from Airlie Beach (and slightly more affordable), there are some great hiking routes in the Conway National Park and waterfall swimming at the beautiful Cedar Creek Falls.

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

There’s a huge number of places to stay in Airlie Beach, covering every budget. In fact, you can find some seriously nice stays at very good value. Here’s my pick:

• Base Airlie Beach (dorm from £16 per night, double from £53)
• Big4 at Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort (camping from £19 per night)
• Magnums Airlie Beach (from £31 per night)
• Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach (from £57 per night)
• Airlie Beach Hotel (from £82 per night)
• Mirage Whitsundays (from £117 per night)
• Coral Sea Resort Hotel (from £139 per night)

Where to stay on the Whitsundays

I’ve written about all the various options in the Whitsundays in more detail, which I recommend you check out.

Fortunately, there’s a good range of tropical island resorts to stay on, with Daydream Island offering excellent value. Rates here start from £150 per night.

One of the most luxurious resorts to stay in in the Whitsunday islands is the InterContinental Hayman Island  (formerly the One&Only). Rates start from around £450 per night.

Alternatively, some other ultra-lux options include:

• Beach Club , an opulent hotel on Hamilton Island . Rates start from £397 per night
• Elysian Retreat  can only host 20 people at any time, and is the ultimate in barefoot luxury with all stays on all-inclusive basis. Rates start at £630 per night.
• Or, the exceptional Paradise Cove Resort. I recommend this excellent boat tour and 2 nights all inclusive in a secluded villa  at the island resort. (£311 per person)

Capricorn Caves

• Suggested time for the Capricorn Caves: 1/2 day
• Driving distance from Airlie Beach to the Capricorn Caves: 460km (5hrs)

The stretch south from Airlie Beach is a long one – I think the second longest stretch of driving on this road trip. Optional stops before the Capricorn Caves include Mackay, a small quiet town with some lovely cycling and hiking, but no essential bucket list adventures. After Mackay, the next potential stop point would be Rockhampton, where (without exaggerating) there is nothing to do.

I recommend breaking up the long drive from Airlie Beach to the next key stop (Hervey Bay/K’gari Island) with a visit to the Capricorn Caves. These are fairly near to Rockhampton, so depending on the time you arrive in this area, you may want to consider an overnight stay near Rockhampton or a little further south at Gladstone (137km/1hr41).

The Capricorn Caves are called this because they are located on the Tropic of Capricorn. They are an awesome complex of caves, with over 1.5km of passages to explore. They only way to visit is on a tour, often called the ‘Cathedral Tour’ as they all take in the incredible largest cave, which often holds wedding and special events. The acoustics are incredible and it was like nowhere I’d seen before.

Book a tour to the Capricorn Caves here!

Taking around one hour in total, it’s well worth a visit and is often missed off travellers’ East Coast itineraries.

Suggestions for affordable places to stay around this area:

• Mackay: Central Tourist Park (£41 per night)
• Rockhampton: Denison Boutique Hote l (£54 per night)
• Capricorn Caves: Capricorn Motel (£65 per night)
• Gladstone: Barney Beach Accommodation (£50 per night)

Rainbow Beach

• Suggested time for Rainbow Beach and K’gari Island: ideally 3-4 days
• Driving distance from Rockhampton/theCapricorn Caves to Rainbow Beach: 601km (6hrs40)

From the Rockhampton area onwards, there are a few stops to consider including Agnes Water/1770 and Bundaberg. The latter is famous for its rum, and visiting the Bundaberg Distillery makes for a brilliant stop. Make sure to book a tour to the local brewery too!

The town of 1770, sometimes written as Seventeen Seventy, is the second spot in Australia that James Cook and his crew landed in the year 1770. We did stop here and I was fairly disappointed with the lack of things to do and see, so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend visiting.

So unless you make a brief stop at Bundaberg, I recommend driving straight through to the Rainbow Beach area. It’s a long old drive, that’s for sure! Looking back, that was why we stopped at 1770 – to break it up!

Rainbow Beach is located in the Great Sandy National Park and is a tiny backpacker town, surrounded by huge, towering sand dunes. The town is mostly a starting point for Fraser Island tours, but you can definitely spend a relaxing day here too.

One of my favourite things to do in Rainbow Beach is climb the huge Carlo Sand Blow and admire the spectacular views across the ocean. The Great Sandy National Park is well worth exploring too – you can even do this on horseback !

Where to stay in Rainbow Beach

There are quite a few places to stay in Rainbow Beach, many of which offer great value stays. Here are my suggestions:

• Freedom Hostels (formerly Dingos) – from £26 per night
• Pippie’s Beach House – from £77 per night
• Rainbow Ocean Palms Resort – from £110 per night

K’gari Island

K’gari Island, previously referred to as Fraser Island, is one of the most popular things to do in Australia. Most tours here are typically aimed at a young backpacking crowd and last 2 days/1night or 3 days/2 nights. There are several other options, including day trips too but as the world’s largest sand island, there’s something special about staying overnight if you can. Unless you have a 4WD drive and significant experience driving on sand, you won’t be able to take your own car to K’gari Island. Several tours however let tourists drive the company’s 4WD vehicles though on what they call a ‘tag along’ basis .

If you book an overnight K’gari Island tour you will have a briefing the evening before departure at 6pm, so you’ll always need to stay the night before in Rainbow Beach. You may also want another night in the town once you come back from K’gari so you don’t have to rush straight off. However it’s worth nothing that you can also start a K’gari Island from trip from Noosa or Hervey, if you prefer.

K’gari Island is a bucket list activity in Australia and for good reason. For many people, K’gari Island is the highlight of their Australia trip!

You definitely should book your K’gari Island tour in advance. Do not leave it for on arrival in Rainbow Beach/Hervey Bay/Noosa, unless you’re arriving several days in advance (at least).

These are the best K’gari Island tours:

• Full day Fraser Island tour from Rainbow Beach (£125pp)
• 2 day/1 night tour from Rainbow Beach (£218pp)

Best things to do on Fraser Island

• If you’re over 21 and on a tag-along tour, you’ll have the opportunity to drive the 4WD along the sand, which is epic
• Swim in the crystal clear freshwater Lake Mackenzie
• Bathe in the beautiful Champagne Pools
• Drift along the natural lazy river at Ely Creek
• Explore the tropical rainforest
• Spot dingos (wild dogs) from afar
• If on an overnight tour, spend the evenings around the campfire drinking and relaxing with new friends
• Drive along 75 Mile Beach
• Hike up to Indian Head to spot sharks and stingrays
• Explore the Maheno shipwreck
• Hike to Lake Wobby

If you visit Fraser Island on a one day tour from the mainland, you’ll be able to do most of the above, but at a quicker pace.

• Suggested time for Noosa: 2-4 days (or as long as possible..)
• Driving distance from Rainbow Beach to Noosa: 117km (1hr37)

Noosa is an absolute must-visit on any East Coast road itinerary and is hands down my favourite place in Australia. Whether you’re a backpacker, on honeymoon, a group of friends or a family, Noosa is the perfect place. The town centre is charming with some brilliant shopping, the beaches are phenomenal and the surrounding scenery is just breathtaking. It’s also the place in Australia where I’ve seen the most koalas in the wild.

Best things to do in Noosa

• Explore the magnificent Noosa National Park, which is easily accessed whether on foot from the town centre or if you drive to its entrance and park
• Beach hopping from Noosa Main Beach to the dog-friendly waters at the Noosa Spit and over in Noosaville too
• Get surfing or take part in a surf lesson
• Go on a dolphin-watching safari by kayak , where your chances of seeing dolphins are super high
• Bar hopping along Main Street
• Tucking into some of the town’s best food, including the phenomenal Spanish set menu at 10 Hastings Street
• Kayak through the Noosa Everglades
• Hike nearby Mt Coolumb
• Get stuck into the craft beer scene in Noosa
• Drive to nearby Emundi to go to the popular Farmer’s Market, running Wednesday to Saturday until 1pm or so
• Go hiking in the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains

Most of Noosa’s main attractions revolve around the beautiful beaches, the National park, the surf and the food. It’s pretty easy to see why I love it so much.

Where to stay in Noosa

There are some beautiful places to stay in Noosa, covering all budgets and preferences.

Best luxury hotels: There are some amazing hotels in Noosa. Some of top luxury stays would be Noosa Shores (£350), Netanya or the beautiful Sofitel Pacific Resort (from £158 per night). However, there’s also the more affordable Peppers Resort on the beach (from £92 per night) and Tingirana .

Good value stays: My favourite good value spot is 10 Hastings Street Boutique Motel . It also has one of the best restaurants town downstairs! Rates start from about £60 per night.

Best hostels: Nomads Backpackers is the best spot in town. Dorm rooms start at £37, or a double is £44.

• Suggested time for Brisbane: 1-2 days
• Driving distance from Noosa to Brisbane: 141km (1hr44)

Queensland’s big city! Brisbane is a modern metropolis, with year-round warm weather and unique city beaches. I like Brisbane, but not even half as much as Melbourne and Sydney.

It’s probably a great city to live in, but visiting for a couple of days at a time, I have never fallen for Brisbane. However, it does have a fantastic manmade city beach at South Bank where I have spent many hours catching the rays.

I also have to recommend my favourite restaurant in Brisbane, which is New Shanghai located in the Myer Centre on Queen Street. There’s a few of these dotted across Australia, but for me, the Brisbane one is just amazing.

Things to do in Brisbane

Brisbane as a city may not be quite as cosmopolitan and lively as Melbourne and Sydney, but it does happen to make a fantastic base to visit other nearby areas. The winter months are an especially lovely time to visit the city, so make sure to check out this guide to the top things to do in Brisbane in the winter .

For example, if diving is your thing, then there are some impressive shipwrecks at Moreton Island.

You can also visit the famous Australia Zoo near Brisbane , which is of course known for being founded by Steve Irwin himself.

• Take a boat ride along the river onboard a Kookaburra River Queens Cruise, which are old style paddlewheel vessels
• Hike a bike to explore the city or join a guided segway tour
• Spend some time in the city’s magnificent Botanical Gardens
• Join a guided kayak tour along the river
• Visit the city’s impressive collection of museums and art galleries
• Take the river boat to the popular Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary on this excellent city tour
• Go shipwreck diving at Moreton Island or visit on snorkelling day tour
• Take a day trip to the beautiful Stradbroke or Bribie Islands

Where to stay in Brisbane

Best luxury hotel: W Brisbane is the coolest place to stay, with rooms starting from £127 per night. Another great luxury hotel would be The Westin (from £155 per night).

Great value stay: Royal on the Park is a beautiful hotel, and a steal with rooms starting from £53 per night

Best hostel: Bunk Hostel (dorms from £21) or Base Brisbane (dorms from £11)

Cairns to Brisbane road trip itinerary

So there’s my Australia East Coast road itinerary, covering the Cairns to Brisbane drive. As you can see, this route takes in countless iconic Australian experiences. I would say this is easily one of the best road trips in the world.

For international travellers coming to the end of the trip, Brisbane makes a wise finishing point as it has an international airport.

However, for those flying onto Australian domestic destinations or with more time, then I highly recommend continuing your journey. For example, onto the Gold Coast and Byron Bay where there are domestic airports in both destinations. If you have plenty of extra time, you could do the Brisbane to Sydney drive. Although this is another 1000km and 10hrs driving, the beaches are fantastic. However, as mentioned before, the drive from Byron Bay to Sydney would be quite cool if done in the Australia winter (May to August).

Brisbane to the Gold Coast and Byron Bay

• Driving distance from Brisbane to the Gold Coast: 99km (1hr10)
• Suggested time for the Gold Coast: 1-4 days
• Driving distance from Brisbane to Byron Bay: 166km (1hr50)
• Suggested time for the Byron Bay: 1-4 days
• Driving distance between Gold Coast and Byron Bay: 93km (1hr)

Both Gold Coast and Byron Bay are popular holiday destinations with Australians as well as international travellers. And as mentioned, with domestic airports near both locations, you could potentially also finish your road trip itinerary further south of Brisbane. For example, we finished our road trip from Cairns at Ballina Airport, which is just near Byron Bay. This was really convenient as there were rental companies to return you car or camper van.

Gold Coast and Surfer’s Paradise

Gold Coast is a city made up a dozens of smaller beach areas, with expansive stretches of white sand and some of the best surfing in Australia. This whole area is the most popular tourist place in Australia. It’s like visiting a beach resort town in Florida, USA or a resort in Spain. Gold Coast is where young Australians flock to party and have fun every summer, and there are a lot of bars and activities geared towards this. Surfer’s Paradise is at the heart of all the action but I wouldn’t recommend spending long here, unless partying is something you’re keen to do.

The other beach areas surrounding Surfer’s Paradise are amazing, and a great spot to recoup for a couple of days. In fact, the challenge can be deciding which beach to spend the day at.

Alternatively, Gold Coast is packed with all kinds of tourist attractions, including theme parks like Wet’n’Wild and Dreamworld . My personal favourite thing to do in Gold Coast is to visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary . This is a brilliant place to spend a full day. Plus, they have their own wildlife hospital with huge glass windows so you can see all kinds of animals being operated on. On the day we went, I saw birds, tortoises and koalas being treated!

Best things to do in Gold Coast

• Go hiking in nearby Tamborine Mountain or get your adrenaline pumping at the high ropes course
• Or why not visit Mt Tamborine and stop by the beautiful wineries and distilleries on this tour with lunch
• Explore Springbrook National Park and swim in the refreshing waterfalls
• Meet some of Australia’s most unique wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Head to the farmer’s markets at different beaches – my favourite is at Burleigh
• Rent bikes and cycle from one point to another, for example Burleigh Heads to Mermaid Beach
• Explore the stunning waterways of Coolangatta
• Join a surf lesson in Surfer’s Paradise
• Visit the World-Heritage Listed Lamington National Park and explore the beautiful waterfalls and landscape
• Check out the incredible views from the Sky Point Observation Deck

Where to stay in the Gold Coast

There is a seriously huge amount of places to stay in the Gold Coast. It’s hard to even know where to start.

If you are looking to get stuck into the nightlife, then you could stay right in the heart of Surfer’s Paradise .

Otherwise, I recommend picking a beachside community for a couple of days such as Burleigh or Coolangatta . Due to the sheer number of hotels and places to stay in the Gold Coast, you can definitely find some good value stays!

Check rates for all hotels, lodges and holiday parks in the Gold Coast here.

I’ve stayed in several areas around the Gold Coast, and I particularly love the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort . This resort is beyond stunning, with a huge lagoon beach swimming pool, and access to an amazing health club with golf and tennis.

I could have stayed here for weeks, so I’d say, if there was once place to splurge en route, it would be this resort!

Book your stay at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort here.

There’s a certain magic in the air in Byron Bay that makes so many fall in love with the town. So many travellers arrive for a couple of days, but end up staying for weeks.

The main thing Byron Bay is known for is surfing, but there’s so much going on away from the away from the waves. The town is particularly popular with backpackers who get quickly drawn into Byron Bay’s hippy, bohemian, anything-goes lifestyle. But there’s increasing appeal for honeymooners, families and even those looking for a spot of luxury.

Best things to do in Byron Bay

• Hit the waves, or take the chance to learn to surf
• Beach hop – as well as the main beach, visit Clarks Beach, Tallow Beach, Belongil Beach and The Pass
• Go dolphin-spotting from your kayak
• Hike to the Cape Byron lighthouse, the most eastern point in Australia
• Visit one of the many local markets, for example the Byron Bay Artisan Market (every Saturday evening from October to March)
• Enjoy live music at one of the awesome bars
• Shop at some the wonderful unique boutique stores
• Stop for happy hour at some of the excellent cafes
• Explore the craft beer scene in Byron Bay
• Experience a scenic hot air balloon journey over Byron Bay
• Get up and close personal with the elusive platypus a nature walk with a local guide
• Take a day trip to nearby Nimbin, a small hippie town stuck in the 60s which is famous for its very liberal attitude towards marijuana. There’s an iconic bus tour which you can book onto.
• Dance the night away with local musicians performing on Main Beach
• Explore the beautiful Nightcap National Park with waterfalls and great hiking routes
• Go hiking along the trails in the Arakwal National Park, followed by a swim in the ocean
• Have a delicious dinner at The Roadhouse , just on the edge of town
• Drive to Byron Bay Farm for day surrounded by farm animals, and for some seriously delicious food

Where to stay in Byron Bay

Best luxury hotel: Far and away, the most opulent hotel is Elements of Byron Resort & Spa . It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends and honeymooners. Rates start from around £245 per night, per villa.

Other great upscale stays include Atlantic Byron Bay (from £130 per night), Azur Villas (from £142 per night), The Bower Byron Bay (from £151 per night).

Great value stays: Bayhaven Lodge (from £71 per night) or Byron Palms (from £70 per night)

Best hostels: There are plenty of hostels in Byron Bay, as it’s so popular with backpackers and Australians visiting for ‘schoolies week’. There is the Byron Bay YHA , Nomads and Wake Up! all with similar rates for double rooms and dorm rooms (around £33 per night).

Finally, I couldn’t not mention the iconic Arts Factory Lodge . Located just outside of town in a beautiful forested area, this a mammoth campground, lodge and artsy bohemian stay all in one.

We chose to stay here with our camper van which was great – it has a pool, on-site cafes and bars, and even things like didgeridoo lessons! A dorm bed here is around £14 per night, and a double room around £68 per night.

Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

So that rounds out my super long and very detailed itinerary guide for an East Coast Australia road trip.

I really hope this is useful for you if you’re planning a trip to the beautiful East Coast of Australia. As you can see, there is literally so much to do, particularly on the Cairns to Brisbane stretch. And as I said, you can do the highlights in two weeks, but the longer you have, the more you’ll be able to take in and soak up. Ideally, a month to 6 weeks would be the best for an Australia East Coast road trip itinerary.

If you enjoyed my Australia East Coast road trip itinerary guide, then please do consider sharing through one of the below links, that would be amazing. Also, if there’s anything else I can share or answer for you, please do let me know in the comments below.

For further Australia guides, please do check out my other guides:

• Visiting the Whitsunday Islands
• Noosa Travel Guide
• Best day trips from Cairns
• Cairns to Cape Tribulation road trip
• Taking the Ghan train from Darwin to Alice Springs

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This Australia East Coast road trip itinerary guide is based on multiple visits to Australi a . There was no involvement from any local companies or the tourist board . However icelolly.com arranged two local tours on the East Coast: dolphin watching in Noosa and entry to Currumbin Wildlife Park.

Enjoyed my guide to an Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary? Pin it!

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New zealand travel guide: best places …, cairns to cape tribulation & the daintree …, sailing the whitsunday islands in australia: ….

What an incredible resource! Thank you so much! Do you have something similar for New South Wales and Victoria?

Thank you! Unfortunately no! Although I lived in Victoria, I didn’t travel the state as extensively as Queensland 🙁

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10 of Australia’s most iconic road trips

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Feel the freedom of the open road with these unmissable road trips.

By Leah Dobihal and Carly Spek

There’s no shortage of adventure on the spectacular Legendary Pacific Coast between Sydney and Brisbane , boasting the wineries of the Hunter Valley , the sparkling beaches of Port Stephens , the hippie-chic scene of Byron Bay and the glitz of the Gold Coast . It’s a wind-the-windows-down kind of road trip that embraces Australia’s coastal beauty and laid-back vibes, even passing one of the most iconic road trip pit stops: the Big Banana .

Drive the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route

From world-class wine to sparkling beaches and ancient rainforest walks, the New South Wales Legendary Pacific Coast is a drive to be savoured.

Read time • 8min

Coastal drives fit into a road trip category of their own, with the endless ocean on one side and sweeping landscapes on the other. One of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives is New South Wales’ Grand Pacific Drive . Beginning just south of Sydney , the road clutches the coastline, unfurling onto the Sea Cliff Bridge, which seemingly levitates above crashing waves. Along the way, visit a dramatic blowhole in Kiama, stroll along the bone-white shores of Hyams Beach and witness ancient history .

Sydney to the Sapphire Coast road trip

With pockets of paradise like Eden and Merimbula, the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales is so much more than just a whale-watching mecca.

Read time • 6min

The central Australian outback is a place of transformation. Ancient ochre landscapes, dynamic cultures and starry skies create an energy unique to Australia’s red heart. Driving the Red Centre Way, a loop beginning and ending in the outback town of Alice Springs , means meeting Australian icons at every turn. Ulu r u, Kata Tju t a and Watarrka National Park are the heavy hitters, but don’t overlook the dramatic gorges and cool swimming holes of Tjoritja (the West MacDonnell Ranges).

Alice Springs to Uluru: a 7-day road trip

Tour the ancient landscapes of Central Australia on this iconic Aussie road trip through Alice Springs, Kings Canyon and Uluru.

Not all great drives are long drives, even in a place as big as Australia. From the tropical city of Cairns to the wilds of Cape Tribulation, the Great Barrier Reef Drive offers more than its fair share of wonders. Where else can you stand on the border of two World Heritage Listed sites ? Or spot the vibrant colours of both cassowary birds and coral? Amid your travels between the reef and the Daintree Rainforest , you can chill beneath palms, search for tree kangaroos and snorkel over the kaleidoscope of colours and creatures on the reef .

14-day Tropical North Queensland Drive

Drive from Cairns to Townsville via Cooktown, through World Heritage-listed reef and rainforests to golden outback savannah, taking in tropical Queensland at its finest.

Read time • 11min

Meandering all the way from Adelaide to Darwin , the Explorers Way passes through a tapestry of ancient gorges, weathered peaks and red rock canyons. In South Australia’s outback, you’ll find the natural wonders of the 600-million-year-old Flinders Ranges as well as the underground city of Coober Pedy. After crossing the border into the Northern Territory , you’ll soon see the majestic Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a appear ahead as the earth turns red beneath your tyres.

14 days along the Explorers Way

This 14-day adventure takes you down the centre of Australia, from Darwin to South Australia. Along the way you'll explore striking landscapes from wetlands to deserts, as well as outback towns, world-class wineries and beautiful beaches.

Read time • 10min

From snow-capped mountains to sapphire-blue bays, Tasmania is overflowing with natural beauty. Take in Tassie’s coastal wonders as you follow one of the island’s grandest road trips – the Great Eastern Drive . Head north from Hobart to the Bay of Fires , where the beaches are white, the air is clean and the scenery is magnificent. Wander around the sandstone ruins of the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur convict settlement one day and find yourself admiring the perfect curve of Wineglass Bay the next. 

5 days on Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive

Sample the splendours of Tasmania’s stunning east coast, from seafood and wine to lush rainforest and powder-white beaches.

Read time • 5min

If experiencing Australia’s wide-open spaces is on your wishlist, set your sights on the Nullarbor Plain , located along the Great Australian Bight. There are incredible experiences to be found as you drive along the open road, from wandering the wild coast of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula to hitting the holes on the world’s longest golf course . Add in caves, old gold mining towns, the remains of a space station that crashed to Earth and character-rich roadhouses, and the Nullarbor becomes a bucket list Aussie road trip.

Driving across the Nullarbor Plain

Widen your horizons driving the Eyre Highway across the vast Nullarbor Plain, four times the size of Belgium.

Read time • 9min

The centre of the Kimberley is as vast and majestic as its famous coastline. The Gibb River Road , which stretches from Derby (near Broome ) to almost as far as Kununurra , is a legendary outback route for good reason. Offering secluded gorges, rocky ridges and that indescribable open-road feeling, it’s a drive that will transform you with each passing kilometre. Head off in a 4WD to explore bulbous boab trees, glimpse the rugged Cockburn Range and soak in glassy waterholes.

Gibb River Road: a 12-day adventure

Journey across one of the country’s greatest 4WD adventures through Western Australia’s captivating Kimberley wilderness.

The route between Perth and Esperance truly has it all: blindingly white beaches, strikingly clear water, some of the tallest trees in the world and premium wineries. Lose yourself in the natural beauty, seclusion and tranquillity of the South West Edge road trip. Pay a visit to Lucky Bay’s beach-loving kangaroos, bounce along a walkway suspended in the treetops at the Valley of the Giants and join an expedition to see killer whales (between late January and April). And that’s just the start.

Western Australia's South West: 14 day road trip

Experience the extraordinary landscape of the South West in one great road trip.

Read time • 16min

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most thrilling drives, studded with dramatic views of rugged coastline. Take it slow and enjoy the breathtaking views along this iconic stretch of road before heading inland to discover dense forests and misting waterfalls. Seize the chance to marvel at the famous 12 Apostles’ towering limestone rock formations – stunning at any time of day, but especially as the setting sun turns the cliff face a fiery red.

6 days on the Great Southern Touring Route

Take a road trip along Victoria’s eye-popping southern coastline, through Aboriginal history and into sparkling spa country. It’s nature, nurture and wonder all the way.

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The Ultimate Australian Road Trip – The East Coast

Australia is a big place, like a really, really big place.

And while flying between the cities is the best way to see parts of certain parts country quickly, it’s exploring all the places in between where you really find the best of what Australia has to offer.

No matter if you’ve chosen Van Life and are looking to do this in one big trip or, more like myself, do this as a series of smaller trips over a couple of years… There are plenty of approaches to see all that Australia has to offer.

From the Great Barrier Reef to the Great Ocean Road, I’ve spent a lot of time driving around the country and used that experience to compile a series of blog posts on the best places to visit around the country.

For this particular itinerary, I would recommend starting in Cairns and making your way down to Melbourne via Sydney and Adelaide for an approximately 5000km journey that showcases the vast diversity of landscapes, wildlife, cities, and so much more of what Australia has to offer.

That said, you can also break the trip up into smaller segments, much like what I did, and explore certain regions over a few days or a couple of weeks without spending months on the road.

This route doesn’t require a four-wheel drive or any other sort of specialised vehicle. And that is very deliberate. Quite literally any serviceable car (with air conditioning!) will be able to complete the trip just fine.

If you have some sort of campervan or caravan, you’ll be able to save some money on accommodation costs, but there are plenty of hotels and other accommodation options along the route as well, so all you really need is a car that you are comfortable spending long stints behind the wheel in.

Australian Road Trip – General Advice

Before we get properly started, to help you make the most of the trip, I do have a couple of tidbits of advice that will make your road trip easier.

Smart Phone Apps

During the summer, in particular, the weather around Australia can be quite volatile, with flooding and bushfires a regular occurrence. So I would strongly recommend downloading the following apps to help keep you aware of changing conditions while you are on the road.

• Google Maps – Simple navigation and traffic.
• Fires Near Me – Most up-to-date information about bushfire locations (State by State and Australia-wide versions available)
• Floods Near Me – Most up-to-date information about flooding and road closures (NSW Only)
• Live Traffic – Another option for checking traffic and road closures (the NSW version also works in Queensland, Victoria and SA)
• Emergency Plus – In the event of an emergency, this app will give you your precise location to give to emergency services

These can be extremely valuable in helping you make decisions about segments of your trip, whether delaying the next part of your drive by a couple of days or taking an alternate route.

I would also recommend having good quality music and a podcast app, like Spotify, where you can download tunes/episodes, but we’ll get to that in the next segment of this blog post.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that there will be long stretches of the road, particularly in the more regional/remote areas that don’t have phone/data coverage.

Most towns will have some sort of 4G/5G reception coverage in the main township, but in between those towns, it can and will be very spotty and sometimes nonexistent.

Make sure you take advantage of Google Maps’ download maps feature so you will be able to use the maps, especially if you need to detour off your pre-determined route for any reason. GPS will work without data, but it will need the downloaded maps to overlay the information onto.

As I just mentioned, it will also be worth downloading music/podcasts (both?) so that you aren’t stuck at the mercy of long quiet stints behind the wheel.

One more thing that I should note about smartphone usage whilst driving around Australia. Most (possibly all?) states around the country have some sort of rule against using/handling your phone while driving, with some very heavy fines attached if you are caught doing so.

That said, they usually include some sort of exception about using your phone for navigational purposes, so make sure you set your phone before you depart. The best way to avoid any issues is to purchase some sort of mount to attach the phone to your car so you can have the maps up and visible without having actually to touch the phone.

Australian wildlife is amazing, except when it appears unexpectedly on the road in front of you.

On any road trip around Australia, you will experience this in one way or another. You really need to be alert, particularly around dawn and dusk when animals like Kangaroos tend to be most active around highways.

Kangaroos are probably the most notorious for causing car accidents because they can leap out behind trees and shrubbery and land right in front of you with little to no advanced warning. If it doesn’t happen to you personally, you will absolutely see the remnants of where it has happened to someone else recently.

I’ve also spotted out and had to avoid while driving Emus, Echidnas, Cassowaries and Snakes in different places around the country. While it hasn’t happened to me personally, I can vouch for the fact that Wombats are the worst to come across on the road. They will destroy your can and leave you stranded on the side of the road waiting for help.

In the more regional farming areas, it’s also not uncommon to come across herds of farm animals – particularly cows and sheep.

If you do come across a herd blocking the road entirely and need to continue along the route… Do not stop! Continue driving forward slowly (very slowly, like walking pace), and the animals will make way for you. Ideally, you will want to avoid them, but if there isn’t any way around continue along the road.

Each state has its own set of road rules that you should at least have a quick look at.

For the most part, it’s all common sense, but there are intricacies in the way different states apply certain rules and the consequences attached.

Just one example is that in Victoria and South Australia, they go out of their way to hide speed cameras to catch people out, while in New South Wales, they need to be clearly signposted. It’s worth having a look for your own peace of mind.

Check out each state below:

• New South Wales
• South Australia

Now for the Ulitmate East Coast of Australian Road Trip… Starting with Cairns:

Cairns, Queensland to Townsville, Queensland

Cairns is the ideal starting point for this trip.

Firstly you’ll get the chance to tick off one of Australia’s top attractions… The Great Barrier Reef. But Cairns also has a reasonably well-serviced international airport with regular flights to the major Australian cities. While also being the most northern point of the trip, saving you from doubling back on yourself.

Now to get started with the itinerary, I’ve already put together a comprehensive post detailing everything you need to know to plan your time in Cairns.

Ideally, I would recommend that you give yourself at least a week (probably two) in Cairns, but whatever you do, make sure you don’t leave without spending some time out on the Great Barrier Reef.

The great thing about this style of a long road trip is that you can be extremely flexible with your schedule and adjust accordingly. And Far North Queensland has to offer. So I wouldn’t recommend that book too much too far in advance. That will allow you to enjoy everything at your own pace and adjust as you find things that grab your attention.

Several of those things that the region has to offer are along the drive down to Townsville, the next stop on this itinerary.

This first stint on the road will be relatively easy, but I’ve detailed it thoroughly in my Cairns to Townsville along the Bruce Highway post.

You can complete the drive in a few hours, but I think you’ll find that once you’ve read the previous post, you will want to give yourself at least a day or two to complete the drive.

Besides, it’s the tropics, and rushing isn’t something that’s done in that part of Australia.

Townsville, Queensland to Brisbane, Queensland

Townsville is the next prolonged stop on this grand adventure before continuing on the road down to Brisbane.

The unofficial capital of North Queensland, not to be mistaken with Far North Queensland that you would have just driven from, is a stark contrast to the tropical rainforests to this point in the trip.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s still tropical and warm, but the landscape does change significantly when you arrive in Townsville.

By no means as heavily tourist-centric as Cairns, you won’t need quite as much time to see all that Townsville has to offer, but that’s not to say the city doesn’t have its own appeal.

I would recommend you spend about a week in Townsville. You’ll be able to explore all that it has to offer and give you enough time to spend a couple of days over on Magnetic Island – a definite must-do while you are in the area.

To better understand what it’s like to travel to Townsville, including what there is to see and do there, check out this guide that I’ve already put together.

Brisbane is the next stop-off point on this trip, but the long drive down the rest of the Bruce Highway to get to that point is dotted with so much to see and do.

You could complete the drive in as little as two days, but I think you will find that once you’ve read my Townsville to Brisbane via the Bruce Highway post , you’ll quickly work out that you will need to give yourself at least a week (probably two) to complete the trip, especially with such iconic places like the Whitsundays along the way.

Just keep in mind that there are sections along this part of the Bruce Highway that are sparsely populated with quite limited places to stop (for fuel in particular). So please read my guide thoroughly for this part of the route so you can plan ahead accordingly.

Brisbane/Gold Coast, Queensland to Sydney, New South Wales

After a fair bit of time in the car to get to this point of the trip in South East Queensland, spending a few weeks in Brisbane and/or on the Coast Coast is a great way to refresh before the next part of the drive.

If you haven’t spent much time in either Brisbane or the Gold Coast, then I would strongly recommend that you give yourself a fair amount of time to explore and enjoy both.

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, has plenty to offer as a big city. Museums, galleries… I’ve got everything you need to know about Brisbane covered in this post.

Being a city, a couple of days might be more than enough for you in Brisbane, but there is plenty to do there. So I would recommend that you give yourself a week or so, especially if you are going to continue on the road from this point.

However, you could also easily split your time between Brisbane and the Gold Coast over a couple of weeks.

With that in mind, I’ve also put together an entirely separate extensive blog post that really outlines all of what the Gold Coast has to offer, which you can read here.

If you are travelling as a young family, maybe spend a bit less time in Brisbane and focus your attention on the Gold Coast. It is home to Australia’s major theme parks, after all.

Once you are ready to spend a bit more time in the car, it’s time to head across the New South Wales border and down to Sydney.

At this point, you do have two options. If you’ve never driven between Brisbane and Sydney before, I suggest following the Pacific Highway route along the coast.

Firstly it’s a much easier road to drive, but it also has some of the more popular towns to visit along the way, including Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour.

However, if, like me, you’ve done the Pacific Highway drive several times and would like to mix things up or just need an alternate route due to bushfires or floods. The New England Highway offers a great alternative option with a vastly different landscape from what you’ve seen to this point of the trip.

I’ve written that post in the opposite direction, but all the recommendations for towns to stop still apply regardless of which direction you are heading – either way, onwards to Sydney.

Sydney, New South Wales to Adelaide, South Australia

Sydney, as the most populated city in Australia, has plenty to offer before embarking on the next part and, in my opinion, the most interesting landscapes on the way to Adelaide.

I will put together a Sydney-specific blog post detailing all that the city has to offer in the not-too-distant future.

That said, in the interim, you can’t go too far wrong by exploring Darling Harbour, where you will find some of Sydney’s most noteworthy attractions.

I’d also recommend taking at least a day trip (if not a couple of days) out to the Blue Mountains region of New South Wales.

I’ve written a full detailed blog post with all the information to plan and make the most of your time in the Blue Mountains that you should definitely read. But even if you don’t, make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to see the iconic Three Sisters rock formation.

If your travels have you in Sydney during the winter, it also might be worth doing a couple of days’ detour down to the Snowy Mountains region, just south of Sydney.

An extreme contrast to the tropics where we started this itinerary if you’ve never been to the snow before, it’s well worth it. This post details everything you need to know to plan a trip to the Snowy Mountains.

Once you’re done exploring Sydney and the surrounding regions, the next drive on this route actually has you headed inland to Adelaide.

There are a few different roads between Sydney to Adelaide. However, we’re going to focus on the easiest, yet no less interesting, Sturt Highway option for this road trip.

You will need at least two days to complete the drive between Sydney and Adelaide, but I recommend giving yourself three or four days to explore some of the unique sites along the way – especially Mungo National Park. Mildura and the Barossa Valley are noteworthy stops.

Just one thing to keep in mind with this part of the trip is that sections of the drive along the Sturt Highway are very remote and sparsely populated. In particular, the Hay Plains section.

While it’s only a few hours section of the drive, planning a bit ahead for fuel and food stops etc., will make a big difference for this part of the road trip. It’s also worth noting that accommodation can be limited in some of the smaller towns during peak times, so you might need to book ahead to be assured of having somewhere to stay.

Alternatively, if you have no ambitions to head to Adelaide (which would be a real shame), you could instead take the Hume Highway directly to Melbourne, which is covered in detail in this post.

Adelaide, South Australia to Melbourne, Victoria

The most westerly part of this trip, Adelaide, is a massive contrast to the cities you would have seen to this point.

While only a small city in comparison to Brisbane and Sydney, Adelaide, also known as the city of churches, has its own abundance of things to do and is well worth spending at least a week exploring it all before heading towards Melbourne.

Much like the other cities I mentioned earlier in this post, I’ve put all of my best advice for Adelaide into its own blog post .

While you are in the area, you could also check out Victor Harbour to continue to mix things up . If your travels have you in the region during whale migration season (between June and September), it’ll be well worth a couple stopping in for a couple of days.

From Adelaide, you’ve got a couple of choices for heading back to Melbourne, but my strongest advice from this whole itinerary would be to take the most iconic stretches of tarmac that Australia has to offer… The Great Ocean Road.

No road trip around Australia would be complete without driving this stretch of road. And starting that part of the trip from Adelaide is the best way to see all that The Great Ocean Road has to offer. Much more extensive than doing it as a quick day trip out of Melbourne.

The drive can be done in as little as two days, but you’ll really want to give yourself at least a week to take in all the sites in between. Check out my Great Ocean Road blog post for all the details.

If, for whatever reason, you choose not to take the Great Ocean Road route… The Dukes/Western Highway presents a quicker option for the trip between Adelaide and Melbourne.

The alternate route for this part of the drive can be easily done in a single day, but I would recommend that you give yourself an extra one so that you can explore some of the natural wonders contained within the Grampians National Park.

Melbourne, Victoria to Sydney, New South Wales

As one of the major international hubs of Australia (alongside Sydney), it makes perfect sense to end this ultimate east coast road trip in Melbourne.

But before you rush back home, no matter how much you’ve seen of Australia to this point, Melbourne has its unique appeal and is well worth exploring.

I’ve put together a comprehensive guide covering all that Melbourne has to offer, which you can check out here.

With so much to see and do, you will need to give yourself at least a week, probably two, to explore the city properly.

Once you’ve wrapped up everything you want to see in Melbourne, I would also suggest that you make time in your schedule to also make a quick visit down to Phillip Island.

Located just a short two and half hour drive south of the city, Phillip Island is well worth the trip if just to see the iconic Penguin Parade. I will add a dedicated Phillip Island post here shortly.

Now, if by this point you haven’t had enough of the road and would like to continue to explore Australia’s unique and ever-changing landscapes and regional towns. Then you can continue the road trip back to Sydney.

You will have two options, the Hume Highway, which is the quicker option through rural farmlands . While continuing around the coast along the Princes Highway (blog post coming soon) is the far more scenic drive.

Bonus: Tasmania

Want to make your trip down the east of coast of Australia truly comprehensive? Why not take the Spirit of Tasmania over the island state?

I’ve covered everything you need to know about a road trip around Tasmania in this blog post.

How Much Time Do I Need For The Ulitmate Australian Road Trip?

As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, there are a couple of ways to approach the ultimate Australian road trip.

If you are looking to see and do as much as possible in the shortest amount of time, you could complete this entire itinerary in as little as two months. However, realistically you should give yourself three to four months to make sure you don’t feel like you’ve just skimmed the surface of what Australia has to offer.

That said, I’ve broken the trip up into sections so that you can split up your ultimate road trip over the course of a couple of trips to make sure you don’t feel too rushed as you complete it.

If you’d like to get more information to help plan your trip to and around Australia…  Check out the rest of my blog posts.

Also, make sure you check out the travel tools that I use the most to help you save some money when booking your next trip.

Keep up to date with all the latest Here, There & Gone! adventures by following along on  Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Instagram .

And if you have a travel-related question, you would like me to answer, head on over to my  contact page  to get in touch and let me know.

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Rhys Vandersyde

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A Detailed Guide to Planning an East Coast Australia Road Trip

March 11, 2018

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Are you comfortable in your seat? Do you have a cup of tea and a snack ready? Sit tight, because it will be a long post about everything you need to know for an East Coast Australia road trip.

Let me start by saying that we did this trip in May 2017 and spent a month doing an ultimate Australian road trip from Cairns to Melbourne. It is a popular East Coast road trip itinerary and it is perfect if you are visiting Australia for the first time.

Let’s get down to basics.

When is the best time to visit Australia?

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This is a tough question since it’s basically asking about when is the best time to visit an entire continent. Australia is HUGE! I cannot stress it hard enough. Australian government defines eight major climate zones in the country , so I would say it depends on where you are going.

Queensland itself has a few climate zones, but it is generally warm all year round, with peaks of heat during summertime. While Southern territories, including New South Wales, where Sydney is located have warm summers and cooler winters.

One more important factor to point out, since Australia is in the Southern hemisphere, winters here are starting in June and last through August, while summers are December through February. A bit confusing, right? But great for escaping winter in the Northern hemisphere.

Spring and Autumn are lovely times to visit with an average pleasant temperature throughout the coast, while summers might be too hot, with temperatures rising up to +35C and a probability of bushfires along the coast arises. Winters might be a bit cool (still, not cold).

That’s another complicated question we faced when we started planning road trip around Australia. Where to start? Cairns, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide? And where to finish?

But don’t stress about it too much, it will depend on where you’re landing and where you are departing from. So, the first thing to do is: buy the ticket and use it as a guideline to decide your starting and finishing point.

If the ticket price doesn’t impact your route options, you can look at it from two sides:

If you are coming in autumn, I’d suggest you start South (Melbourne or Sydney) and move up North. This way you’ll still get pleasant warm weather in the Southern states and will get to Queensland just in time for the heat to go down. And vice versa, if you are arriving in spring, start with Queensland, where it is still not too hot and move down to spend summer in the cooler states.

2. Car hire cost

Depending on your car hire option (which I will describe below), you’ll be able to decide which route is better and cheaper. You’ll find that some rentals offer great one-way car hire deals, just because they need cars to be returned back to their location. You can look at as much as 50% reduction in price if you drive from Cairns to Melbourne rather than vice versa. This was what we’ve done, it was cheaper for us to hire a car on the route Cairns to Melbourne so that’s what we did.

What to see?

• Great barrier Reef in Cairns, Queensland. You’ll most likely end up in Cairns anyways, so I suggest you book one of the tour boats to take you snorkeling or diving on the great barrier reef. To be honest, we weren’t that impressed with the snorkel, maybe because the weather wasn’t suitable. In fact, I’ve seen better underwater life snorkeling off the coast in Malaysia . This might be due to the bleaching of corals which causes threat to the entire ecosystem.
• Mission beach or Bingil Bay, Queensland. I liked this place because it is a great spot to enjoy pristine Australian nature in solitude.

Sunset at the Bingil Bay beach, QLD

• Magnetic Island is another great place for wildlife experience mixed with sunny days by the swimming pool.
• Whitehaven beach . Unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit the beach because of a cyclon which caused a lot of damage . But Whitehaven beach in Whitsundays is known for the purest silica white sand in the world and crystal clear turquoise water.
• Cape Hillsborough could be one of my favorite places for wildlife in Australia. This is where you can easily spot kangaroos and maybe even spot whales passing by from the lookout points.
• Fraser Island is another must-do since it is the biggest sand island in the world and it has a great aboriginal culture to explore.

Fraser Island is known to be the only place in the world where rainforest grows on sand

• Byron Bay . You cannot skip the classic surfer town. Although too commercial for my taste, this is a great example of a chilled beach town where all you do it surf, drink, and tan by the beach. It is also the most Eastern point of Australia, so you should definitely take a hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

The most Eastern point of Australia, Cape Byron

• The Blue Mountains in New South Wales. At some point, you will be driving through Sydney , and the Blue Mountains are right next to the city. It is one of the most scenic mountain views I have ever seen, so I highly recommending spending a day hiking there.

• Phillip Island is the island in Victoria where tourists go to see the penguins daily coming out of the sea in the afternoon and maybe even spot some seals. Worth driving to.
• Great Ocean Road. This scenic drive should be on everyone’s East Coast Australia road trip must-do list.

Dramatic views from Great Ocean Road

Since your itinerary starting points might be different, you can visit these places in a different order. One thing you have to be mindful of is that some of these places will require you to leave your car behind while you are doing the tour (this is true of Fraser Island, Magnetic Island and Whitehaven beach). Check the rules of your rental to be sure.

Again, Australia is huge, it is an entire continent after all! When you think of its size, imagine the size of the United States. It will take a long time to cover the entire coast.

We did our E ast Cost Australia road trip in exactly one month or 31 days, excluding three days we spent in Sydney and two days in Melbourne without a car. In total, we covered 5,000+ km of distance. And I still feel like we rushed through a lot of places. We barely stayed in any place for more than two nights, and spent a lot of time on the road, driving.

Everyone we met on the road was taking about 3 to 6 months to do their trip! And even though most of them were students or people on working holiday visa, after the first week of driving, we started saying that we are in Australia ONLY for a month, even though I thought that getting a whole month off from work to travel was a great deal.

So, I would advise you to plan for no less than one month if you do Melbourne – Cairns or three weeks if you do Sydney – Cairns. If you are working remotely or simply have the luxury of more time, then I suggest you take six weeks to cover the East Coast in a relaxed manner.

Car Rental Australia

Now, do you have the tickets already? Time for the next big step in planning your road trip around Australia: finding a car.

Let’s get one question out of the way right away: should you buy a car for a road trip in Australia or should you just rent one?

While having your own car is great because you don’t have to follow the rental rules and can be more flexible, you have to realize that buying and selling would take time. If you only have one month for a road trip (like us), I wouldn’t suggest you buying. But if you have, let’s say, three months or more – you can go for it!

With buying a car in Australia comes a matter of finding a car to buy, registration and, subsequently, selling the car when you have to leave.

• To buy a car in Australia from private owners for under $1,000 you can use the websites like Gumtree Cars. Getting your own car allows you to resell the vehicle at the end of the trip, so you end up not losing money. Be sure to get a mechanical check on any vehicle prior to purchasing. Other options to buy a car are: Cars4backpackers and Carsales .
• For vehicle registration use these sites for New South Wales car registration and Queensland vehicle registration

How to rent a Car in Australia?

When it comes to finding a car for hire in Australia, the choices are plenty! This is because backpacker road trips are so popular here that competition has really pushed the prices down.

Here are some of the most popular car hire companies that we saw on the roads of Australia:

• Travellers Autobarn

There are websites that offer car rental prices starting from $1 per day for the one-way car relocations . This means that you will be less flexible with time and location where you can go, but it is a great money saver if you are on a budget.

In our case, we went with the Travellers Autobarn and were pretty happy with their service. They are one of the budget options and they have awesome discounts for special routes, which basically let us rent a station wagon for 10$ a day +insurance!

The station wagon is a great option for two people. The back seats unfold, so you can sleep at the back. It also turned out to be the perfect size for people of 165-175 cm tall 🙂 And a bonus is that you can actually sit up in the car without hitting your head, which was great during evenings when it is already dark and there is nothing to do.

Our Travellers Autobarn Station Wagon

Why I loved it? I think that campervan would have been too big for us, as we don’t have extensive driving experience, so it was perfect for first-timers. With the station wagon, we were still quite agile and didn’t have to pay the campervan prices at the campsites.

Our car came with a set of dishes, including plates, cutlery, cups, pots, etc. They also gave us a portable gas stove with two gas bottles (we had to buy extra), two chairs, a table, an esky (a small cooler) and a tent.

Everything you see to the left of the car was included in the car rental price

⚠ Attention, no sheets, pillows, covers, mattresses or sleeping bags were included! We got the yoga mats and bought our own plaids to keep ourselves warmer and softer. We also brought our own sleeping bags, without which it would be too cold to sleep in a car during autumn period. Some nights were really cold in May in New South Wales, so we had to sleep fully dressed as well.

• First of all, find the company you want to rent from . Carefully read the reviews! Some companies, though offering great prices, might not leave you very happy. Think of it this way: this car is going to be your home for the entire trip. You want to make sure it is comfortable for the number of people you are, it has amenities you need, like cutlery, dishes, portable stove and maybe even chairs, bed, sheets, etc. Think of that when you make your choice. Do you want to buy all that stuff or will it be easier if it is already there?
• Decide on a car type . Do you want a campervan, a station wagon, or a caravan? It will depend on how many people you are. I would say don’t get a station wagon if you are more than two.

Campervan of our neighbors at the Bingil Bay

• Transmission . Do you want the automatic transmission or are you comfortable with a manual? It was an important one for us since it was our first time not only driving on a left side of the road but driving a rented car in general. So we really wanted to get a car with automatic transmission to make driving easier. Usually, campervans have a manual transmission, so make sure you are paying attention to this detail before renting.
• Choose suitable insurance . The costs you see on the rental car price rarely include full insurance coverage, so you have to read more into what types of extra insurance they provide. Usually, the rental company would have a basic one, which requires you to leave your credit card info and you’ll be deducted up to $2500 if any damage is found, then the middle one which covers just wheels and windscreen for additional daily payment and offers a lower deduction rate, and the premium one which covers everything and you don’t have to leave your credit card details. Since we were the nervous newbies to the road trip business, we opted for the full coverage and paid extra. We never had any incident on the road, though.
• Read your insurance rules carefully. Important to note that if you breach the contract, your insurance might be waived completely. For example, our rental company said we cannot drive during the night, cannot drive on gravel roads, and cannot take our car to certain islands (like a Kangaroo Island), so if we were caught in trouble visiting those places, the insurance would not cover us.
• Check the car condition . Take photos of the car when you rent it and use the time to carefully evaluate its state. They’ll give you a paper to mark all scratches and dents in the car and I suggest you do that and list everything. You’ll go through the same procedure at the end of the route and check if no new marks appeared. Though they never really checked us at the end (we even forgot to leave the esky back in the car), I think they might deduct money from your card if they find issues later on.

❗ If you are driving with an overseas license, you might need to obtain International license papers to accompany your driver’s license. It depends on which states you are planning to visit since some of them have different requirements. Check which states require to have an International driver’s license . But don’t worry, the papers are not hard to get. In Denmark, it took me a visit to a local library and $4 to get an international license paper.

Staying Overnight in Your Car

The whole point of renting a campervan or a station wagon is to be able to sleep in your car in Australia. Before our trip, I heard about this amazing app called WikiCamps that lists all the campsites around Australia with users’ reviews and pictures. This is by far the best app I have ever purchased! It saved us so many nights when we were late to get to the next city. The app basically lists all the places where you can stop over for the night, whether it is a proper campsite ground or just a parking spot with a toilet. It will also mention whether it is a paid or free one, whether it has a bathroom, shower or a charging site.

Yes, in most of the states, it is allowed to stay overnight in your vehicle. Most of the time, you’ll be stating in the campsite, but if you need to stay off the campsite, as long as the owners of the land don’t mind, it is okay.

First of all, you have to realize that you are driving in a new country so you have to be careful at all times.

General rules for safety on the road:

• Avoid driving at night. Though it might seem like a great way to cut in some distance, it can be dangerous. Animals are becoming active at night and there is a chance you can hit someone. We almost hit a kangaroo that was casually jumping across the motorway. And if a dead kangaroo doesn’t bother you, think about this: if you see it crossing, you’ll have to hit the break or tilt, which might cause a car behind you to hit you and cause an accident. Lose-lose for you and the kangaroo.
• Rest when you get tired. A lot of signs in Australia (especially in Victoria) will tell you exactly that.
• Beware of other tourists . Remember, that many people you’ll share the road with are tourists as well and they might not have a clue about some of the local traffic rules or be experienced drivers in Australia. So just be extra cautious when you see another campervan.
• Read up local traffic rules. Brush up your knowledge of the local traffic rules and take a look at how Australia is different.

I won’t go into too much detail here, but will mention the most important items that you need to pack for a trip to Australia.

• Money. Have some Australia cash, not all places (especially campsites) accept cards

• Download Google maps on your phone

• It is good to have some tea or coffee with you, always
• Make sure to pack sleeping bags if you are traveling in the off-season, it might get chilly at nights

• Buy a sunscreen. The Australian sun is pretty strong, you will notice it right away. Sunscreen is essential for any type of skin.

Let me tell you this, Aussiland is not a cheap country to visit, but there are ways to save. In total, we spent around $5,000 for both of us doing the E ast Coast Australia road trip for a month. That is not bad at all, considering what an average living cost in Australian could be, including rental costs and food.

We are those people who need our internet connection all the time! And not just because we were using GPS quite extensively, but also because we needed to look up places to stay overnight, places to eat and well, hello, blog!

As soon as we landed, we got ourselves Australia phone cards to have cellular reception and mobile internet. We went with Optus, among other choices, because they have good coverage, and they are cheap! ($30 per month). Here is a list of Australian mobile providers for you to choose from. We just picked our up at the nearest 7eleven.

Once our phone Internet ran out (it was based on usage), we used Skyroam to stay online. However, the reception was not that great. Basically, it has the reception the same places where your phone does. The advantage is that you can also use it as a hotspot, charger, and you do pay based on a day of unlimited use.

The wifi in Australia generally is really bad, so don’t blame it on the tool or the mobile carrier. It is just bad.

Heading out for your East Coast Australia road trip might seem overwhelming at first, but once you break it down into small bits of things to take care of, the rest falls into place by itself. After all, you have to leave some room for the unexpected adventure.

Anything else? Tell me what else you’d like to know about when preparing for your East Coast Australia road trip and I will include it in the article.

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A great post Lena 🙂 I did the East Coast using Greyhound so it’s nice to read about it from a road trip perspective and all the tips are super useful. I hope to do a road trip one day from Melbourne to Perth and take in the south.

There’s still so much of the country to cover! I think East Coast is a good place to start for the first-timers.

Hi Lena, love the itinerary! I would totally do the same in renting something similar, but my partner is 196cm so something bigger would be needed for a good nights sleep haha.

Haha, totally agree that campervan would probably not be the best choice for your guys.

Such a detailed post! I really love your photography. Reading this post just made me want to book the next flight out to Australia! Bookmarking this post for future reference 🙂

Yazhini | http://offbeatdiaries.com/

Beautiful photographs – this has made me miss Oz so much! We need pretty much the same road trip but it took us well over 2 months, you fitted in so much 🙂 thanks for sharing

This is perfect!! We are thinking to either go to Australia or South Africa in December. I am saving this for the weekend. Will read it in depth tonight and show it to hubby on Saturday when he gets home. You made me so happy ??

Choose Australia! Just kidding, your choice of course, I am sure both would be great.

Thanks for this very extensive post! Appreciated the map and timeline. Pinning for later.

I think you covered everything that we need to know about road tripping in the East Coast of Australia. Great! And it’s cool that the rental provided the basic necessities for camping though I thought I won’t find rental car with a manual transmission over there.

Oh no, plenty of cars, especially caravans, have manual transmission. We actually had to ask for automatic specifically, so be careful there 🙂

This is such a thorough guide! It is so nicely organized as well! Australia looks beautiful and is definitely on my list of destinations to travel too. 😀

Really good tips. I really want to go back now – we did it in a Jucy last time. Such a good trip!

I love the east coast of Australia! This is such a great guide, I wish I’d done a road trip now there’s so many extra places to see! Hope I can return and tick it all off sometime, I’ll definitely be using your tips!

Thank you so much for this, it’s great! Thank you for the details, the map, answering questions. I really appreciate a truly useful resource. <3

? thank you

amazing article girl! I am also in love with the content and your photos are amazing. Keep up the good work!

wow, thanks for your kind words… ?

I just found your blog and I am loving it! This guide is amazing. I was in Australia a few years ago and did a mini road trip to the 12 Apostles but would love to drive so much more of Australia. Thanks for this! Can’t wait to read more of your content – I’m loving it!

https://teaspoonofadventure.com/

The Great Ocean Road is an awesome road trip, isn’t it? Glad you loved the post.

Nice post! It’s my dream to do a road trip across Australia and I would probably to do it during the winter, since I know how hot Australia can be in summer… Thank you for sharing your experience and so many tips! Already dreaming of my next road trip…

hi wonderful site and thanks for the post

Happy to hear that, you are welcome!

It is really good post. I loved it.

Great post. thanks for sharing these insights

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The Ultimate Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Table of Contents

Doing a road trip is the dream of many travelers, but experiencing it in Australia is the ultimate dream. Australia is not a simple country but a continent with breathtaking landscapes. 

Additionally, doing a road trip in Australia is pretty safe as the country is relatively full of backpackers from all around the world.

Taking a road trip to the land of the kangaroos is undoubtedly the best way to discover it. But which coast to start with? I suggest you start with the East Coast, Australia’s most popular part. 

A road trip on the east coast will take you through the famous cities of Sydney and Byron Bay, Townsville, Rockhampton, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, etc.

I don’t think there is a perfect East Coast Road Trip Australia itinerary. It all depends on all your desires, seasons, and your budget. Of course, the possibilities are endless, but some spots on the East Coast of Australia are unmissable while others are worth a look. 

That’s why I thought of an itinerary that will allow you to see the best of the East Coast. Just like me, you will start your journey from Cairns to Sydney via several stops. 

My itinerary will allow you to enjoy the beach, explore botanical gardens, see koalas, and meet numerous friends.

What do you need for an East Coast Road Trip in Australia?

● rent a car.

Before talking about the itinerary, the first step in organizing the East Coast Road Trip in Australia is to rent a car or a van. Be aware that vehicle rental in Australia represents a significant budget. Before renting your vehicle, you should ask yourself a few questions such as: 

● Is it better to book online or is it better to rent it on-site? 

● Is it better to book directly with the car rental agency or go through a comparator? 

● What type of vehicle to choose for the road trip? 

● How much should I save for renting a car in Australia?

Additionally, you should know that all drivers must carry a driver’s license from their country of residence. Furthermore, the driver’s license must be in English. If not, you must also present an international driving license or translate it into English. 

Concerning the rental price, be aware that it is much more expensive during school holidays and long weekends.

Car rental rates in Australia also vary depending on the length of your stay and whether you book in advance or not. 

Concerning car insurance, you will only pay for the first 50 days and the average price is $ 25 / day. Another variable to consider on a road trip in Australia is the price of gasoline. 

It is generally lower in Australia than in Europe. One liter of fuel price varies between 1.10 AUD and 1.60 AUD. Lastly, you should rent a car that you can pick up from Cairns and drop in Sydney. Additionally, you need a car with a GPS Navigation system to not get lost.

● Accommodation

Like a fly attracted by an allogenic lamp, backpackers on a road trip tend to think about hostels as their first accommodation choice. It is a good way to meet other backpackers and have fun with them. I stayed in hostels during all my stops except Townsville and Newcastle.

I must admit I like hostels in Australia, however, in a short time you’ll notice that the overnight stay costs are extremely high. 

For a better understanding of the hostel accommodation expenses, they cost 28 $ / night on average. Thankfully, there is Couchsurfing. It is a great way to find free accommodation in Australia, have fun, discover the local culture and meet new people. 

When you choose Couchsurfing, the outlook is slightly different. Your wallet is emptied much less quickly and you also benefit from significant support (the experience of the people who host you).

The East Coast Road Trip Australia Highlights

I started my East Coast Road Trip in Australia from Cairns. Even if the town seems like an isolated place in the North East of Australia, it is an important stop for all backpackers. 

Mostly visited and known for its lagoon and nightlife, Cairns is also the unique meeting point between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

You will see that there are so many activities and things to do around Cairns. Concerning the weather, it is tropical, so I do not recommend going there during the Australian summer. Concerning the Lagoon, it is the ideal place to swim and end the day with a barbecue.

Additionally, access to this giant open-air swimming pool is completely free. However, if the lagoon was built in Cairns, it was precisely to deal with one of the disadvantages of northern Australia. In fact, the beaches are present along the coasts, but the mangroves replace the shells and the white sand. 

But even if you can’t swim on the beach, Cairns’ lagoon is worth it, making it a great starting point for your road trip in Australia. 

Additionally, don’t miss out on Flecker botanical gardens with its 4000 different plants and the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site wonder.

2. Townsville

After crossing 350 km from Cairns on the Bruce Hwy / A1 and Bruce Hwy, I arrived at the beautiful city of Townsville. It is a charming seaside town located in the north of Queensland state. 

I chose Townsville as my first stop because it is an excellent scuba diving spot due to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. 

I also chose it because it is a starting point for exploring beautiful Magnetic Island and the Australian outback. Additionally, Townsville is the main gateway to the Yongala. 

This tourist place is considered one of the best diving sites in the world and possibly the best wreck in the world. As for Townsville’s vibes, I believe it is a relaxed and cozy town. It offers cool bars, restaurants, and a lively night scene that won’t leave you indifferent.

3. Airlie Beach & Shute Harbour

My second stop on my East Coast Road Trip in Australia was Airlie Beach & Shute Harbour. I started with Airlie Beach to explore the Whitsundays, islands off this seaside resort. To get to Whitsundays I had to fly with a Cessna plane (GSL AVIATION tour). 

The trip lasts approximately 1 hour and costs 80$ on average. Concerning Whitsundays Islands, they are composed of Australian National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries. 

Whitsundays Islands are also known for their white sand beaches with changing shapes according to the tides. 

Additionally, when you’re on the road, don’t miss the panels like the Rest or R.I.P sign . They serve as a reminder to the drivers to take a break but the way they are written is very funny. Also watch out for the panels that say “ Try to survive this drive after 1km on the left, you’ll find a fatigue zone “, Or “ keep playing trivia, it may save your life”.

If you cross 150 km via Bruce Hwy / A1, you’ll find Mackay city, my fourth stop. The Australian town is known for its strong industrial and mining activity. Mackay is nicknamed “Australia’s sugar capital” because it produces more than a third of the country’s sugar. 

Additionally, Mackay is also known for its art deco, making it the prettiest town in Queensland. Among the buildings to see, I recommend the Historial Bank, with its typical colonial architecture. 

Additionally, I suggest you go for a stroll in the Marina area. It houses a pretty lighthouse and a botanical garden.

5. Rockhampton

Nestled in Fitzroy Basin, Rockhampton is a riverside gem that has much to offer to backpackers on an East Coast Road Trip in Australia. About 500 km via Bruce Hwy/A1 separates Rockhampton from Airlie Beach. I chose Rockhampton because it has plenty of camping sites and other types of accommodation.

From heritage homes where time has stood, to pristine islands bathed by the Great Barrier Reef, Rockhampton town is a perfect stop on an East Coast Road Trip in Australia. Additionally, there are numerous places to discover in Rockhampton including the Capricorn Caves. 

It is a great opportunity for backpackers to wander through the magical passages of this vast limestone complex, formed from an ancient coral reef over 400 million years ago. 

Also don’t miss Rockhampton Heritage Village to learn about the pioneer life of Queensland. Lastly, I invite you to explore the town’s botanical garden. It is one of Queensland’s oldest public gardens and a Rockhampton heritage site.

6. Brisbane

One of the most important stops in an East Coast Road Trip in Australia is Brisbane. It is a cool big city on the east coast and my sixth stop during this trip. To get to Brisbane from Rockhampton, I took Bruce Hwy / A1. The trip lasts more than 7 hours but it is totally worth it.

Brisbane enjoys a generous climate and has all the attractions of a big city. Additionally, if you visit Brisbane around Christmas, don’t miss the big Christmas tree by the city hall. 

You’ll be charmed by the Christmas Tree’s virtual lighting, the Christmas Cinemas, the festive beats at South Bank Parklands, and the elves and Santa Christmas on the City Hall stage.

As for transportation in Brisbane, you can discover it with your car but the ideal transportation method is the Cityhopper. You can take the CityHopper at six stops between North Quay and Sydney Street. 

Furthermore, the service runs every 30 minutes between 5.30 am and midnight and is free! Concerning the must-sees in Brisbane, you will find the Brisbane River.

In this Australian area, you can enjoy swimming in the artificial lagoon (streets beach).  You will also be able to take walks in the lush gardens of the district and enjoy the freshness and exoticism of these places. 

Also don’t miss Brisbane’s Botanical gardens and the Goodwill Bridge, which is reserved only for pedestrians and cyclists.  Additionally, you can even have picnics in the equipped areas. So prepare yourself for a unique outing that you will remember for a long time.

7. Surfers Paradise

Like all Australian cities on the coast, the Gold Coast has a huge beach that runs along most of the peninsula. But, it is especially the surfers who have a blast in the waves. 

That’s one of the main reasons why I included Surfers Paradise in my itinerary. The trip from Brisbane to Surfers Paradise lasted one hour via M1.

Surfers Paradise is full of skyscrapers and light that immediately seduced me. This area is very touristy, with numerous shops and activities. 

Additionally, in the middle of the Surfers Paradise Mall, you can find a large center where you can play bowling, put a coin on the slot machines or even try out the city’s gun shop. 

If you’re looking for a great beach in Surfers Paradise, I highly recommend the Spit.  It is located at the end of a peninsula near Surfers Paradise. Furthermore, if you’re renting a van, you can park it by the water and sleep there. Also, the Spit is surrounded by the ocean on both sides, so your awakening will undoubtedly look heavenly.

8. Byron Bay

My next destination in my East Coast Road Trip in Australia was Byron Bay. I had to cross 93.4 km via M1 to arrive at Byron Bay from Surfers Paradise. This Australian town has a population of just 5,000 people, it cannot be considered a large city, however, it has a lot to offer.

The city belongs to New South Wales and is located 200 kilometers south of Brisbane. The small town of Byron Bay sits exactly one meter above sea level. Situated on the oceanfront, the town is particularly famous for surfing. 

Indeed, the many beaches of Byron Bay offer waves of exceptional quality, which makes it a popular spot for surfers and curious people from all over the world. 

The small town is also renowned for its relaxed atmosphere. Its streets are very poetic and authentic, and they are reminiscent of the 70s. In Byron Bay’s streets, I had the feeling that time seems to stand still. 

They seemed very bohemian, peaceful with a calm atmosphere. It was undoubtedly a refreshment for me during this Road Trip in Australia.

Lastly, don’t miss Cape Byron Lighthouse, it sits on Australia’s most easterly point. At night, Cape Byron Lighthouse shines over Cape Byron Marine Park. 

Built in the 19th century, Cape Byron Lighthouse is now an automated light visible from Byron Bay township. Also, don’t miss Little Wategos Track, it’s the most Easterly Point Of Mainland Australia. 

You can find some awesome little rock pools among the rocky headland on low tide. All you’ll have to do to reach this place is to follow the rocks along the southern end of the main beach and turn right.

9. Port Macquarie

After a calm stay in Byron Bay, I decided to head to Port Macquarie. The Trip from Byron Bay to Macquarie lasted 4 hours via Pacific Hwy / A1. Port Macquarie is a very trendy and quiet little seaside resort that is hard to leave. The history of Port Macquarie is unique.

This Australian town was established in 1821 to house offenders from Sydney to hard labor. Today, it became a seaside resort on the subtropical coast, filled with cute bars, colorful houses, and koalas. 

Talking about the latter, I invite you to visit Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital, it is one of the main ones in Australia. The Australian institution aims to rescue and care for injured and sick koalas.  Additionally, you can actively contribute by becoming a volunteer.

Another must-do activity during this East Coast Road Trip in Australia is swimming in the Hastings River. Numerous activities are available there including Dolphin spotting, sunset river cruise, and live music shows.

Additionally, along the Hastings River, you’ll notice a series of painted rocks. The trend began as an art competition in 1995, today, these painted rocks are an outdoor gallery in Port Macquarie. 

Lastly, I suggest you try cycling from the town to Nobby Beach. It is a good physical activity to do while enjoying the sea views.

10. Newcastle Australia

My penultimate stop during this journey was Newcastle. I suggest you start your visit by going to Nobby Beach. Nobby Beach is recognized by its archetypal conglomeration of rocks residing in the center. 

Additionally, the rocky nature of Nobby beach makes it a good fishing destination. I also invite you to visit the iconic Nobby’s Lighthouse.

Established in Newcastle Australia in 1854, Nobby’s Lighthouse is an active one that guides vessels into the Hunter River. Additionally, Nobby’s Lighthouse is surrounded by three cottages that served as a defense mechanism for Newcastle.

My last stop in this Road Trip was Sydney. A metropole that attracts millions of tourists every year. Only 168 km separate Sydney from Newcastle, and the trip lasts 2 hours via the M1. If you are looking for a beautiful place to stroll in Sydney, head to the city’s Botanical Garden. 

It is possible to cross the whole garden by taking various paths, and the entrance is free, except for certain exhibitions presented each month. I also invite you to visit Sydney’s Opera and Bondi Beach. 

Once you’re done exploring Sydney, drop your car at the airport, cherish all the memories this Road Trip gave you and be ready for your next adventure!

Final Thoughts

An East Coast Road Trip in Australia is an unforgettable experience. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore Australia in a unique way. 

Additionally, it is also a good way to make friends, discover the local culture, and do unique activities. I hope you enjoyed this Road Trip in Australia in the guide. 

Please, let me know about your Road Trip experiences and highlights. I look forward to your comments!

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The Ultimate Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2023

Categories Australia

Are you planning a road trip in Australia but not sure where to start? This Australia East Coast road trip itinerary will help you make the most of your Australia adventures.

In this post, you will find the best spots on the East Coast of Australia, as well as tips for driving in Australia.

This 5 week Australia itinerary starts in Cairns and ends in Melbourne, including the Great Ocean Road. Of course, you can do it the other way around as well. Enjoy planning your Australia road trip!

Australia East Coast road trip itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

East Coast Australia itinerary: map

Click here for the interactive map

Australia road trip advice

Below you can read about some important tips and things to know about driving in Australia.

Australia is huge

Let's make something very clear: Australia is big. Huge. Massive. In fact, it's so big it qualifies as a continental landmass instead of just a country.

You can spend anything from three weeks in Australia to several months (or even years!) and not run out of things to see.

We spent 5 weeks driving from Cairns to Melbourne and while we didn't feel rushed, it would have been great to have more time.

There are just so many worthwhile Australian activities and highlights along the way…

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Drive on the left in Australia

First things first: in Australia people drive on the left. For the majority of the people in the world (70%), this is different than what they're used to.

It is for me, in the Netherlands we drive on the right side of the road, so be careful, especially when you're getting back on an empty road.

It can be easy to forget which side of the road you are supposed to be on without oncoming traffic and this happens quite a lot on the quiet roads of Australia.

Have you always dreamed about a Working Holiday in Australia? Check out Global Work & Travel and get a €100 discount with the coupon code PHENOMENALGLOBE .

Watch out for wildlife

We saw so many dead kangaroos and other animals on the side (and on) the road. Be careful and avoid driving in the dark if you can.

You don't want to be involved in an accident as this isn't covered by insurance. What's more, I would be horrified and traumatized if I would ever kill or injure an animal while driving…

The unique wildlife of Australia has been around a lot longer than cars, so be careful and mind the (wildlife) signs.

Be careful in strong wind and heavy rain

There are several high-wind areas on the road from Cairns to Sydney, be very careful in these areas if you have a high-top camper van (or a car with a tent on top).

Also, sometimes it rains. A lot.

We've had a couple of days when suddenly a very heavy rainfall occurred and we could barely see through the windshield even with the wiper blades at maximum speed.

In those cases, we either found a rest area or a pull-out and waited for the worst rain to pass.

Rent a campervan

In my humble opinion, there is no better way to road trip Australia than by campervan!

A camper will provide both transportation as well as accommodation, which allows for maximum freedom and flexibility.

We rented a Kuga campervan from Travellers Autobarn and were very happy with it. In the van, we had a small kitchen with a sink, fridge, 2-pit stove, and even a microwave.

There were two windows on the side of the roof, both covered with mosquito nets, so it was easy to ventilate the van without getting lots of bugs inside. The bed was very comfortable and easy to convert into a seating area.

Most importantly, however, having your own house on wheels means you can go pretty much anywhere you like!

Click here to book your Travellers Autobarn campervan

We used the free  Campermate  app to find free campsites. In the app, you can read comments from people who have recently visited a place and commented on the facilities.

You can also use the Campermate app to find (free) hot showers, drinking water, gas bottle refill points, and much more. Don't forget to download the offline maps to avoid using lots of data!

Alright, let's get to the most important point of this post: the ultimate East Coast Australia road trip itinerary!

5 week Australia road trip itinerary

Week 1: cairns, daintree national park, and townsville, day 1: cairns to mt. molley.

Distance: 120 km

Cairns Esplanade

During this lovely stroll along the ocean, you'll see pelicans and many other birds. Don't forget to bring your bathing suit for a dip in the public pool!

Trinity Beach and Palm Cove

While driving north from Cairns, be sure to stop at Trinity Beach and Palm Cove, two cute little villages with stunning beaches and tropical palm trees.

Captain Cook Highway

The further north from Cairns you get, the more beautiful the road! We pulled over a couple of times to take a snapshot of the amazing views.

Port Douglas

This beautifully situated town is the perfect spot to end your first Australia road trip day.

Visit the Flagstaff Hill Viewpoint and St. Mary’s by the Sea, a lovely little church. If you're lucky to visit around sunset on a clear day you'll see the entire bay in a magic golden glow…

Campsite: Rifle Creek Rest Area

This is a basic campsite with flat spots, both for tents and vans. There is a clean toilet, cold water shower, and rubbish bins. A small donation (2AUD) is requested to maintain the site.

Day 2: Mossman Gorge and Daintree National Park

Distance: 250 km

Mossman Gorge

A 2km walk leads to a beautiful gorge in the lush rainforest. The water is suitable for swimming and the River Track is a great little hike, perfect for an easy morning stroll.

Be sure to pay close attention to the warning signs, sometimes swimming is prohibited due to dangerous conditions (strong currents).

Note: there is also a shuttle bus from Mossman Gorge Centre to the heart of the Gorge. It runs every 15 minutes between 8 am and 6 pm. More information and prices can be found here .

Mount Alexandra Lookout

After a short trip on the Daintree river ferry, you'll arrive in the Daintree rainforest, one of the most impressive National Parks in Australia.

A twisting and turning narrow road leads further and further into the green jungle. Be sure to pull over at Mount Alexandra Lookout and enjoy the beautiful view over the forest and the ocean.

Cape Tribulation Beach and the Kulki Boardwalk

Cape Tribulation Beach is stunning, even on a cloudy day. The short Kulki Boardwalk leads to a viewpoint and you're bound to spot lots of tropical plants )and birds) along the way.

On our way back to the ferry we took a short detour to Cow Beach, which was completely deserted. Along the way, we spotted a cassowary! Unfortunately, he disappeared before we could take a picture.

Return to the Rifle Creek Rest Area (day 1) or find a campground in Cairns .

Day 3: Snorkeling and scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef

Distance: 100 km (on water, 0 on the road)

Diving is one of our favorite travel activities and diving at the biggest reef in the world was a bucket list item for us!

We went on a day trip with Tusa Dive  and saw white-tipped reef sharks, lagoon-spotted stingrays, nudibranchs, and many more cool underwater creatures.

This is definitely a recommended activity if you're a fan of the underwater world. Don't worry if you don't have a scuba certification, this excellent day tour is suitable for divers and snorkelers alike.

Click here to book a snorkeling and scuba dive tour

Campsite: Cairns

Use Campermate to find a good spot near Cairns.

Day 4: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Distance: 100 km

Board the amazing Skyrail  near Cairns and fly over the tropical rainforest. Along the way, you'll be able to explore the world's oldest tropical rainforest and learn about its delicate ecosystem from the knowledgeable rangers who man the stations.

Gaze upon the impressive Barron Falls and pick up a souvenir or two in Kuranda, situated at the banks of the Barron River.

We spent pretty much all day riding the Skyrail and exploring the different stations, however, if you're short on time you could do it in 2-3 hours.

Campsite: Kairi Lions Park Rest Area

This grassy field in Kairi village can accommodate a lot of campers. There is a (clean-ish) toilet with running water. The spots are flat and it's very quiet. Plus, it's free!

Day 5: Fig trees, lakes, and boulders

The Curtain Fig Tree

A huge strangler fig tree slowly took over its neighbor (another big tree). When the neighboring tree fell down, the fig created a curtain to support itself and continued growing (aka slowly killing) yet another adjacent tree.

Yungaburra platypus viewing platform

Unfortunately, we didn’t see any of these fascinating creatures but don’t skip this spot next to Peterson Creek, perhaps you’ll get lucky!

Lake Eacham

This easy stroll around a beautiful volcanic crater lake (3km) leads through a dense jungle. Fun facts: the lake is 65 meters deep and has no in or outflow other than groundwater (no streams flow in).

Lake Barrine and the Twin Kauri Trees

At this crater lake, you'll find two very large Kauri trees. There is a trail around this lake as well (5km), with lovely views.

Gillies Range Road

This amazing twisting and turning road leads from Yungaburra to Gordonvale. The views are stunning, however, this road requires concentration and careful driving.

Just take your time and enjoy!

Babinda Boulders

A great spot to go for a swim (in one of the designated swimming areas). Also, check out the Devil’s Pool Lookout and the Boulders Lookout.

Important: please mind the warning signs, they are there for a reason. People have died at the Babinda Boulders because of the treacherous currents.

Campsite: Babinda Rotary Park

This beautiful free camp spot is situated just outside Babinda village. There are lots of flat spots, clean toilets, and hot showers (2 dollars for 4 minutes, only 1-dollar coins accepted).

There is even clean drinking water available to refill your water tank, making it one of the best free campgrounds in Australia.

Day 6: A waterfall, a beach, and a natural pool

Distance: 300 km

Josephine Falls

This is a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall that can be viewed from three platforms. There is a 700-meter trail leading from platform to platform and you can even go for a swim.

Again: be careful, the currents can be strong.

Mission Beach

there are so many stunning beaches along the Queensland Coast, with tropical palm trees and white sands…

In and around Mission Beach there are several places with stinger nets where it's safe to go swimming.

The Spa Pool

Take a little detour off the A1 and you'll find a pretty blue pool that is perfect for an afternoon dip!

The 3km gravel road leading to the pool is in good condition and can be done in a rental car or campervan .

Campsite: Balgal Beach free camping area

This is a nice free campsite next to the beach. There are only a couple of spots so you've either got to be a bit lucky and arrive early or make a reservation online .

The toilets are clean and there is a small restaurant across the street in case you don't feel like cooking or are short on supplies.

Day 7: Townsville

Distance: 160 km

This well-kept esplanade along the beach offers beautiful ocean views. Spend a morning exploring the center of Townsville, grab a coffee and enjoy life the Aussie way.

Townsville has lots of facilities for travelers, making it a great spot for a ‘chores day'. And since you've been on the road for a week, you probably have a couple of things that need to be taken care of.

Freshen up at the public showers at the Strand, do some grocery shopping and laundry, visit the public library to charge your phone / laptop / e-reader / camera / GoPro, and use the Wi-Fi, etc.

Campsite: Home Hill Comfort Stop

While this may not be the prettiest spot of your Australia road trip, there are lots of amenities (for free!).

Free hot showers (max. 5 minutes), clean toilets, warm water on tap, and 200MB of free Wi-Fi per day at the Visitor Center. There is even a BBQ in the kitchen area in case you want to roast some meat.

Week 2: the Whitsunday Islands, Agnes Waters, and the Inskip Peninsula

Day 8: beautiful beaches.

Distance: 270 km

This is a convenient stop for groceries and fuel if you need either of those. Don't spend too much time there, instead, continue to one of the two beautiful beaches below (or visit both!).

Dingo Beach

If you're lucky, you'll have this stunning beach all to yourself. The views are amazing and it's a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.

Hideaway Bay

Another great beach in Australia is Hideaway Bay, if you've still got some time after visiting Dingo beach it's worth checking out.

You can drive up the hill and take some beautiful pictures of the vivid blue waters.

Campsite: Cedar Creek Falls parking lot

This basic free site is actually just the parking lot of Cedar Creek Falls with a toilet and non-potable water. Many other cars as well and we didn't see a ‘No Camping’ sign.

It remains to be seen how long that will last…

Day 9: Airlie Beach and around

Cedar creek falls.

The perfect place to wake up and take an early dive! The water is cold but fresh (and croc-free).

Conway Beach

If you feel Airlie Beach is too busy, go to this beach instead! It was completely deserted when we visited.

Granted, the water isn't the pretty blue color it has in Airlie, but at least you got the whole stretch of sand to yourself…

The lovely Lagoon in Airlie Beach is a great spot to spend a lazy afternoon. The swimming pool is great and there are plenty of good spots on the grass to relax.

There is a nice and friendly atmosphere and a diverse crowd (from families with young kids to backpackers and people having a quick lunch break).

Mandalay Point

Be sure to visit this beautiful viewpoint just outside Airlie Beach. You'll be able to see the Whitsunday Islands in the distance and lots of sailing yachts on the water.

Campsite: BIG4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort

This was our first paid campsite in Australia and we felt it offered excellent value for money. Yes, it’s next to the airport so it’s noisy during the day.

That being said, there is a good camp kitchen, hot showers, clean toilets, a laundromat, a swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi (12-hour access).

There are also a couple of villas and apartments at the BIG4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort, click here to book.

Day 10: Sailing the Whitsunday Islands

Distance: 70 km

You've probably seen pictures of the Whitsunday Islands, it looks like a postcard of paradise.

The best way to explore the Whitsunday Islands is with an organized tour. We sailed around the beautiful islands for hours on the Camira catamaran .

Along the way, we stopped at Whitsunday Island and climbed to the famous Hill Inlet Lookout (pictured above).

We relaxed at the gorgeous white sands of Whitehaven Beach and had a delicious lunch on board.

After lunch, we went snorkeling before returning to Airlie Beach. Altogether it was a great day and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Book a full-day eco-cruise to the Whitsunday Islands => in the morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel and head to the marina in Airlie Beach by bus. During this trip, you'll go snorkeling, learn more about the marine life around the Whitsunday Islands, go for a walk to Hill Inlet Lookout, and have free time to relax on the beach and soak up the splendid scenery. Moreover, a morning and afternoon snack and lunch are included. Check availability here .

Campsite: BP Bloomsbury

This is a good (free) spot next to the A1. We parked behind the BP where it was very dark and quieter than expected. The BP has clean toilets and a shower (you can buy a token at the counter).

There are sockets for charging your electronics as well and you can buy 1-hour WIFI for 5 dollars. However, I recommend getting a local SIM card instead, which will give you more data for less money.

Day 11: Rockhampton Botanical Gardens and Zoo

Distance: 470 km

Clairview Community Center and beach

You'll be covering a lot of distance today and the parking lot at the Clearview Community Center is a great place to break up the journey, have a little picnic and admire the views.

Rockhampton Botanical Gardens and Zoo

Desperate to stretch your legs after a long day of driving? The Botanical Gardens are a great place to do so!

You can visit the (free) zoo and spot some cool animals, such as the super-rare cassowary.

Campsite: BP Marmor

Good free camp spot, next to the A1. Several other campers, clean toilets at BP, and free hot showers.

Day 12: Agnes Waters and Seventeen Seventy

Distance: 320 km

Agnes Water Bakery

This little bakery bakes such great pies, you can even find it in the Australia Lonely Planet . Be sure to try the bacon and cheese pie, it's delicious!

Agnes Waters Beach

There are so many beautiful beaches in Australia, but this was the first beach with people on it! Probably because there aren't as many deadly marine stingers in the waters south of Agnes Waters…

Chinaman’s Beach

No crowds here, just beautiful views…

Paperbark Forest Boardwalk

A short (400 meters) and fun boardwalk through a paperbark forest.

Seventeen Seventy

This small town derives its name from Captain Cook’s landing here in 1770.

You can walk from the James Cook Memorial to the viewpoint at the tip of the peninsula (3 km return). This is a lovely walk through the forest with beautiful panoramas along the way.

Campsite: Sharon Nature Park

A nice campsite (free) with toilets, running water and a camp kitchen. It’s close to Bundaberg (15 km).

Day 13: Bundaberg

Distance: 70km

Mon Repos Turtle Rookery

This interesting turtle information center features lots of displays about the different types of turtles that nest on the beach.

The center also organizes tours and has strict guidelines to avoid disturbing the turtles.

Mon Repos Beach

Some parts of the beach are open to the public and you can walk the Turtle Trail through the forest.

Important: stick to the trails and marked areas on the beach to avoid disturbing the turtles.

Campsite: Wallum Reserve

This is a free site with plenty of spots. If you arrive early you may be able to secure one of the secluded spots under the trees.

The drop toilet is relatively clean. There is no drinking water available.

Day 14: Maryborough and the Inskip Peninsula

Maryborough.

Maryborough is one of the oldest towns in Queensland. It's pretty famous because Pamela Lyndon, the author of Mary Poppins, was born here.

There are several old buildings and a life-size (aka rather small) statue of the iconic nanny.

Inskip Peninsula and the Carlo Sandblow

The Inskip Peninsula is a narrow spit of land that feels very rugged and remote. Be sure to hike up to the Carlo Sandblow, this 120-meter-tall dune offers beautiful views over the ocean and the colorful sands.

If you've got plenty of time, consider hiking the 5-day Cooloola Great Walk. More information can be found here .

Across the Inskip Peninsula is K'gari (Fraser Island), the largest sand island in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

?If you've got time, consider taking this Fraser Island tour (from Hervey Bay). Ride along sand tracks and see dramatic sand dunes, Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, and 75 Mile Beach. Check availability .

Campsite: Roos Creek Store Rest Area

A quirky free site next to the S15. The field can be a bit muddy after heavy rainfall, however, there are clean toilets and a sink to do dishes.

The shop owners are very friendly and donations are highly appreciated.

Week 3: The Glass Mountains, Towoomba, Brisbane, and Byron Bay

Day 15: gympie.

Distance: 26 km

Despite the fact that Gympie is practically on the Sunshine Coast, it rained all day. Therefore, we didn't do anything special.

Just some basic ‘chores' such as laundry, grocery shopping, a refill for our cooking gas bottle, fuel, and a visit to the library to catch up with family and charge our electronics.

Campsite: Six Mile Creek Rest Area

This is a fairly busy site, but it's free and there are clean toilets. It's situated next to the highway, drinking water is not available.

Day 16: Mapleton Falls and the Glass Mountains

Distance: 175 km

Mapleton Falls

Because the viewing platform is above the falls you can't really tell, but this waterfall is 120 meter high! The view is beautiful and the Wompoo circuit trail (1.3km) is a nice stroll through the rainforest.

The Glass Mountains

There are 14 freestanding mountains in an otherwise flat area and from the Mountain View Lookout, you can see all of them.

There are several hikes in the area, more information about the trails can be found here . We did the 4 km Tibrogargan circuit which was perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Campsite: Kilcoy Anzac Memorial Park

This is an excellent free campsite! Free hot showers, clean toilets, and along a road with no traffic during the night. Lots of other campers and by the looks of it some of them have been staying there for a while.

Day 17: Towoomba and around

The japanese garden ‘ju raku en'.

Japanese gardens are known for their clean designs and beautiful bridges and this park is no exception. It's a lovely place for a little stroll and some contemplation.

Picnic Point

This beautiful lookout is indeed the perfect place for a picnic!

Tabletop Mountain

The trail to the top of Tabletop Mountain (600 meters high) is one of the best hikes in Australia despite it not being very long.

Parked your car at the start of the gravel road, from there it’s about a 3.6km return hike. The path is quite rocky and steep in some places, so wear proper shoes and hiking clothes.

I accidentally made the climb in my (long) dress which was far from ideal. I didn’t know it would be a climb instead of a hike, otherwise, I'd have opted for a different outfit. At least I got a cute picture out of it;-).

Campground: James Hedges Park

A nice, free and quiet place to spend the night, even though it’s next to the A2. Clean toilets and good spots, especially on the far side of the grass overlooking the river.

Day 18: Brisbane

One of the best things to do in Brisbane is to visit the GOMA. When we were in Brisbane there was a brilliant Yayoi Kusama exhibition on display.

I don’t know much about art, however, I recognized Yayoi Kusama's unique style immediately! I loved the funky and colorful installations, especially the box with all the black and yellow pumpkins.

Tip: If you find yourself longing for more than 5m2 of space after almost 3 weeks on the road, Belise Apartments is a great place to stay in Brisbane.

Day 19: Brisbane

Distance: 40 km

Brisbane South Bank

We walked along the South Bank and loved the lively atmosphere! We visited on a Sunday and there were lots of families and groups of friends chilling out by the pool and Streets Beach.

Bring your swim clothes, a towel, water, and some snacks and spend a lazy afternoon here.

Visit the Epicurious Garden

The concept of this organic city garden is amazing, you can read all about it here .

Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Take a stroll in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and relax in the shade.

Brisbane City Hall

Climb the Clock Tower for great views or sign up for a free tour to learn more about City Hall (detailed information can be found here ).

Campground: Hugh Muntz Rest Area

Nothing special but when it’s free you can’t complain;-). Metallic toilets without seats, dirty in the evening but clean in the morning (thank you cleaning crew!).

There are usually many campers even though there is a sign saying it’s only for self-contained vehicles.

Day 20: Waterfalls

Cedar creek falls, curtis falls and witches falls.

You'll visit not one but three waterfalls today! My personal favorite was Cedar Creek, however, the walk through the forest (3km) at Witches Falls is nice too and the view over the valley is beautiful.

Currumbin Rock Pools

An excellent spot for an afternoon swim.

Campsite: Yelgun Rest Area

Another free site that's situated along the highway and isn't very quiet. Clean toilets despite the many campers.

There is a sign saying ‘no camping’ so spending the night is at your own risk (as with all the spots mentioned in this Australia itinerary).

You can also choose to stay at the Sleepy Hollow rest area a little north of Yelgun.

Day 21: Byron Bay

Byron bay village and beach.

We drove past the Gold Coast to Byron Bay. The atmosphere in Byron Bay is lively but laid-back at the same time.

There is a great beach that is busy no matter what time of the day and plenty of cafes for a drink or a bite.

Byron Bay Lighthouse

If you're lucky with the weather and visit on a sunny day, this stunning panorama may end up being one of the highlights of your Australia road trip.

Byron Bay Lighthouse is pretty famous and while the lighthouse is indeed very pretty, it’s the stunning color of the water that draws the eye.

It's a gorgeous bay and the waters are crystal clear, you may even spot some stingrays!

Campsite: New Italy Rest Area

This free site is next to the road and rather noisy. The cafe on site is great though, as is the small museum and shop.

The toilets are very clean. The complex is run by volunteers and donations are highly appreciated.

Week 4: Yamba, Sydney, and the Blue Mountains

Day 22: yamba.

Distance: 60 km

Go for a stroll around Hickey Island

This is a quiet and relaxing place for a short walk. The view over the bay is beautiful, even on a cloudy day.

Turners Beach

Watch the surfers ride the waves (or join them if you're a surfer yourself).

Yamba Lighthouse and Yamba Main beach

Admire Yamba's cute little lighthouse atop a hill and visit Yamba Main beach.

Treat yourself to some frozen Yoghurt from Amici

All flavors are delicious, but the cake batter one is just irresistible…

Accommodation in Yamba

We stayed at the house of a friend, but you can either look for a campground via CamperMate or check out Adrift Apartments , which offers excellent value for money.

Day 23: Yamba

Blue and green lagoon (angouri).

These two freshwater pools are situated right next to the ocean. When we visited the weather was a bit dreary but these pools are a very popular place to go for a swim on a sunny (weekend) day.

Yamba Cinema

Because it was raining, we decided to catch a movie in the small but cute Yamba Cinema. There were only 6 people (including us) which made for a special and different cinema experience.

Mutton Bird Island viewpoint

In the afternoon the rain finally cleared up and we were desperate to stretch our legs. From the Marina boardwalk, we spotted a lot of fish and even a couple of stingrays!

The view from the top of Mutton Bird Island is beautiful, it feels a bit like standing at the edge of the world.

Campsite: Burdett Park Rest Area

This is a quiet and peaceful free site next to a sports field. Clean toilets, running water, and even a place to do the dishes.

Next to the road but almost no traffic at night. Donations are highly appreciated.

Day 24: Dorigo National Park

Dangar falls.

A very impressive waterfall that's best viewed from the top viewing platform. You can walk to the platform at the bottom of the waterfall as well, it's a nice stroll but the view from the top is much better.

Dorrigo Rainforest Center

The Dorrigo Rainforest Center is a very interesting and informative visitor center about this particular section of rainforest.

The movie about Dorrigo National Park is long but very insightful and worth your time.

From the Skywalk platform, you'll have an amazing view over the forest and if you're patient you'll see and hear lots of tropical birds.

The Wonga Walk leads along two waterfalls and through the dense jungle. It takes approximately 2 hours to complete the 6.6 km circuit.

Campsite: John’s River Tavern/Blacksmiths Inn Tavern

Quiet free spot a little off the road. Plenty of grassy shady spots below the trees. You can use the toilets in the tavern during opening hours, and a public toilet a little down the road when the tavern is closed.

Day 25: Sydney

Distance: not sure, but we walked a lot!

Sydney Darling Harbor

You've probably seen many pictures of Sydney's beautiful harbor but nothing beats seeing it with your own eyes!

Admire the famous opera building, the Sydney skyline, the harbor bridge, and more. The best views of the harbor are from the ferry between Manly and Circular quay.

? Travel tip: if you plan to visit multiple sights in Sydney, consider buying the iVenture Card . This card gives you up to 40% discount on SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium , Taronga Zoo , Oz Jet Boating, Sydney Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Tower, Sydney Opera House, a hop-on, hop-off boat cruise, and more. Get your card here .

Botanical gardens

While there are many impressive buildings in Sydney, there are lots of big green spaces as well.

The lovely Botanical Gardens are next to the Opera building and are the perfect place for a casual stroll. Or find a bench in the shade and relax.

Hyde Park and the ANZAC Memorial

This is another lovely park with an impressive ANZAC memorial to remember the soldiers fallen in the wars Australia has fought over the years.

A pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with beautiful old buildings, lots of shops, and restaurants.

Visiting Sydney as a family? Read about the best things to do in Sydney with kids (written by a Sydney local)

Accommodation in Sydney

We were lucky to stay with friends, but there are many accommodation options in Sydney, suitable for all budgets.

Great options are St. Marks Randwich (a lovely design apartment) and Veriu Broadway (a boutique hotel near the city center).

Day 26: Sydney

Distance: another day of walking!

Explore this small but beautiful Sydney neighborhood and get some bubble tea while you're there.

The Observatory

From the observatory hill, you can see different areas of Sydney and get a grasp of the size of the city. Did you know about 20% of the Australian population lives here?

The Harbor Bridge

It's a bit of a walk but crossing the Harbor bridge on foot is definitely worthwhile. The views over the city and the harbor are great.

This is a lively neighborhood on the north side of the bay. There is a beautiful walk from Manly wharf to Spit Bridge.

Also read:  the ultimate Sydney city walk

Day 27: the Blue Mountains

Distance: 150 km

The Jamisons, Princes Rock, and Wentworth Falls Lookouts

There are several lookouts, all offering stunning views over the beautiful blue mountains.

A short trail leads down to the Princes Rock lookout which offers a much better view of the waterfalls than the Wentworth lookout.

Wentworth Falls Lake and Reserve

This peaceful and quiet lake is a good spot for a picnic or a lazy afternoon. There is also a playground, making it a good stop for families with kids.

Campsite: Blackheath Glen reserve

Quiet campsite in the forest that's usually quite busy with campers. The toilets were dirty and smelly, there are garbage bins.

If you arrive early you may be able to confiscate one of the good spots, otherwise, you'll have to squeeze in with the rest.

Day 28: the Blue Mountains

Distance: 200 km

Echo point and the Three Sisters

Echo Point is the most well-known (and therefore busiest) viewpoint in the Blue Mountains. It's overlooking a gorgeous valley it's the best place to admire the Three Sisters, a peculiar rock formation.

Evans Lookout and the Grand Canyon trail

This is a great hike down into a moist green gorge. You'll feel like walking through the King Kong film set.

Please note this 6.6-kilometer-long trail involves lots of steps, though if you're reasonably fit you won't have any issues completing it.

Be sure to bring enough water though as it can get pretty hot, especially if you do this trail in the early afternoon. The trail took us 2 hours to complete.

Campsite: Abercrombie River Camp

This was one of our favorite campgrounds in Australia. We didn't drive all the way down to the river because we didn't want to risk getting stuck with our camper van.

If you've got a 4×4 those spots are definitely worth checking out! It was very quiet during the night and the starry night was beautiful.

The toilet is very basic, there are lots of garbage bins and it's free.

Week 5: Canberra, Daylesford, and the Great Ocean Road

Day 29: canberra exploration, explore canberra.

I'll get straight to it, I didn't love Canberra…

Maybe we didn't do the right things, for one we should have visited the Australian War Memorial and the National Museum of Australia but the city felt so… quiet. Almost deserted.

We walked along the river, across Reconciliation Plaza, and visited the National Gallery and the National Library of Australia but just didn't feel the vibe.

It was a little more lively in the area around City Hill where we went for dinner but altogether I couldn't help but be a little disappointed in Canberra, especially after falling in love with both Brisbane and Sydney.

That being said, I'd love to revisit and give the city another try as I've heard many people who love Canberra.

Campsite: parking area in Murumbateman

We spent the night at a small parking area in Murumbateman, a little village along the A25.

There were no signs saying no overnight camping and but it's in the middle of the village so I'm not sure if the locals really appreciate people camping there.

Anyway, we arrived late, left early, and behaved like responsible and considerate campers.

Day 30: to the South (via Yass and Albury)

Distance: 330 km

Visit the Murbateman farmer's market

Every Saturday there is a small farmers market in Murbateman. There are cherries, local beer, freshly brewed coffee, and raw honey for sale amongst other things.

Take a shower at Caltex in Holbrook

After not being able to take a shower for a couple of days, finding a place to do so can be a real highlight;-).

Albury museum and library

We needed to charge our electronics and some Wi-Fi to catch up with our family and the Albany library offered both. There is also a small exhibition about the area.

Campsite: Chiltern park rest area

Free, next to the highway but behind an earthen wall with trees so the noise from the highway isn't that bad. The toilets were clean.

From the parking lot, you can go for a short stroll through the forest, we even saw a kangaroo!

Day 31: Daylesford

Distance: 325 km

Lake Daylesford

There is a lovely trail leading around the lake, perfect for a quiet afternoon walk.

Check my extensive guide about the best things to do in Daylesford .

Hepburn Springs

There are several mineral springs in this cute little village. Be sure to check out the Wyuna spring, Sulfur spring, and Locarno spring.

Don't forget to bring an empty bottle to sample some of the spring water!

Campsite: Mount Franklin reserve

This was our favorite free camp spot in Australia. This picturesque campsite is situated in the heart of an old caldera.

There are lots of beautiful spots under the trees and there is a nice walk up the hill and around the edge of the caldera. There are pit toilets and that's pretty much it.

No drinking water is available and neither are garbage bins. Bring plenty of water and take your trash with you when you leave.

Day 32: Queenscliff and Bells Beach

Princes park.

Princess Park is a nice place for a stroll. Be sure to walk to the beach for beautiful views over the bay. On a clear day, you can see Melbourne in the distance.

Queenscliff Fort

This fortress was built in 1860 and there are several options to take a tour and learn more about its history. Check this website for more information.

Bells beach

Torquay is the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road and there are loads of beautiful viewpoints from here until Petersborough.

One of those is Bells Beach, where you can spend an entertaining afternoon watching the surfers ride the waves.

Campsite: Big Hill campground

It can be challenging to find a spot on this popular free campground. The toilets were surprisingly clean. Garbage bins on site.

Day 33: The Great Ocean road

Erksine Falls

The trail leading to the lower viewpoint involves lots of steps but the view of the beautiful Erskine Falls is much better than the top viewing area and worth the effort.

The Great Ocean Road

The one and only Great Ocean Road ! Be prepared to pull over lots of times (but only when it's safe to do so). This is an amazing and scenic road.

Take your time and be prepared for lots of twists and turns and phenomenal views. Basically, everything you want for a road trip.

Castle Cove Lookout

A beautiful viewpoint and a good spot to make some lunch in your campervan while admiring the view.

The Gibson Steps

The original steps have been replaced by concrete ones but the new ones are nowhere as cool.

The old steps were carved from stone by hand by a man called Hugh Gibson. The view is beautiful, both from the top as well as from the beach.

The Twelve Apostles' viewpoint

This is a world-famous and iconic view. It's usually very crowded but definitely a spot to add to your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Loch Ard wreck lookout

From this beautiful viewpoint, you can see both a natural arch as well as the location where the Loch Ard clipper went down in 1878 (after a 3-month journey from England).

Campsite: Killarney Beach Camping reserve

This was the second paid campsite of our 5-week road trip. Included in the price is the use of the outside camp kitchen, the use of the (hot) showers, and the laundry machine.

Just behind the campsite (which doubles as a sports field) is the ocean.

Day 34: Tower Hill Reserve

Tower hill reserve.

A small but beautiful park consisting of an old volcano and wetlands. In the park, you can hike several (short) trails and look for wildlife. We saw emus just before exiting the park, a mother with two chicks!

Campsite: Meredith Park

A lovely free site next to Lake Colac. Clean toilets, several trash cans, and a beautiful view…

Day 35: Back to Melbourne

Distance: 160 km (back to Travellers Autobarn )

We had planned to spend a couple of days in Melbourne and subsequently fly to Darwin to visit friends.

However, a close friend of ours unexpectedly passed away so we abruptly ended our trip and flew home to attend his funeral and be with our family and friends. 

Road trip East Coast Australia: in conclusion

Despite the very sad end of our Australia road trip, we had 5 wonderful weeks. Rain forest, coral, ocean, lakes, waterfalls, fun cities, and little villages, Australia has so much lot to offer!

I hope this itinerary will help you plan your Australia road trip! Also, check out my Australia road trip budget or read about getting a work and travel visa for Australia .

This post was updated in December 2022.

Eimi Mezzadri

Friday 22nd of May 2020

I absolutely loved your post. I'm definitely gonna use it for my travels. I have one question though. In day 10 till 12 it appears the same Campsite? BP Bloomsbury? And it looks like it's far away from the places in day 12. Did you stay more nights over there? And one more thing. Did your campervan had a shower?

Monday 1st of June 2020

Thank you for reading and I'm happy to hear the itinerary has been useful in planning your trip:-) Great catch about the campsites for day 10-12 not being correct! It seems I forgot to adjust the name, the campsite descriptions are correct. I've adjusted the post, but in any case, day 10 should be BP Bloomsbury, day 11 BP Marmor and day 12 Sharon Nature Park.

Regarding your second question, our van didn't have a toilet or shower.

Again, thank you for letting me know about the error in the post and have a great road trip! Lotte

Rubab Krogh

Sunday 2nd of February 2020

Hello Lotte, Love your blogs. Just read your 6 weeks Newzealand itinerary (absolutely marvelous) and now this wonderful Australia 5 weeks trip. We (my husband and 2 kids -age 12 and 16) are planning a 6 months trip to South east Asia, but mainly Australia, Newzealand, Malaysia and Indonesia. What time of the year were you in Australia? We will be there in december and plan to travel around in Australia for 8-9 weeks, after which we leave for New Zealand - probably 6 weeks. The rest of the plan is kind of open. Is December, January a very bad time to travel in Australia? Our itinerary is more like from Cairns down to Melbourne and then to Alice springs - road trip ofcourse:)

Wednesday 19th of February 2020

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm very happy to hear you've enjoyed reading my itineraries for NZ and Australia:-) What an amazing family trip you've got planned! Regarding your question, we were in Australia in November and December. The Summer months aren't bad times to travel around Australia, however, keep in mind the Aussies themselves are also celebrating the holiday so campsites might be a bit busier than October/November and February/March. That being said, the same is true for NZ and if you leave for NZ in February, holidays there will have ended so chances are you'll have a beautiful campsite entirely to yourselves:-)

Enjoy planning your trip and have a great time on the road! Lotte

Tuesday 1st of January 2019

Hi Lotte, as a lifelong Canberra resident I’m so sorry to hear you didn’t enjoy your visit. I hope you can come back someday and stay a little longer and see more of the city - you missed all the good bits! I’d be happy to show you around :-)

The small town you stayed in just outside Canberra is Murumbateman - not Murbateman - it’s right in the middle of the cool climate wine region and also worth exploring.

Wednesday 9th of January 2019

Dear Trish,

Thanks so much for your kind comment and offer! I'd love to give Canberra another chance as I do feel the city has more to offer and we missed several interesting sights (such as the Australian War Memorial and the National Museum of Australia). Thank you for letting me know about my spelling error, I have adjusted the name of Murumbateman:-)

I was pregnant during the time of our trip so no wine for me, but for a second visit I would definitely love to explore the wine region! Lotte

Thursday 15th of November 2018

I love this article! I've been thinking about travelling to Australia and going solo. Did you feel safe when you parked at the campsites at night? I'm wondering if its ok to do it alone...thanks!

Friday 16th of November 2018

Hi Queenie,

Thank you, I'm happy to hear you like the post! I never felt unsafe at the campsites, however, I was traveling with my husband. I think Australia is a very safe country in general and you're not very likely to run into any issues traveling alone. That being said, I would always lock your car and if a campsite doesn't feel good, leave and find another one. Also, we had a campervan with good curtains so nobody could look inside, I'd recommend this for you as well. Enjoy!

Sunday 4th of February 2018

Great post! We did this road trip a few years ago but you found a tonne more places to go. Feeling inspired to do it all over again!

Thanks Jodie! Even though we covered quite a lot, there is always more to see;-).

Inspire Your Trip

The Ultimate West Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary (1-3 Weeks)

You contrary thing, you. For many roadtrippers with their own wheels, West Coast = Best Coast.

The diversity of experiences available, rare wildlife spotting opportunities and emptiness of landscapes (hellooooo, perfect Instagram shot!) makes for a magical off the beaten path experience.

How much time you have really depends on how many places you can see, we have put together two itineraries, for 7 or 21 days but both can be adapted to fit any time frames.

We’d recommend you allow a little longer for the West Coast than the East coast, due to the sheer distance between some remote places on this itinerary.

Having said that, if you’re pushed for time, you could easily spend a few less days on Shark Bay and Exmouth or opt out of exploring the Kimberleys.

Australia West Coast 1 Week Itinerary

If you’re after a real Aussie adventure with less time, a speedy one-week road trip headed north from Perth cuts the mustard.

First drive to Karrijini National park for iconic red rock gorges, natural waterfalls, tree-climbing and camping under the clearest starry sky (so clear you can legit see the galaxies).

Then swing back to the coast starting with Exmouth and its incredible coral reefs, swimming with whale sharks and sundowners on the sand dunes.

Make your way back to Perth stopping at Coral bay, Monkey Mia, Shelly beach, the pinnacles and back down to Perth.

This is a really quick and rushed itinerary but will allow you to see all the main highlights in a short period of time.

Australia West Coast 3 Week Itinerary

This 21 day itinerary starts in Perth and travels north. The itinerary can be adapted as you go.

Day 1: Starting our itinerary in Perth but before you hit the open road, we recommend you head to Rottnest Island to meet its gorgeous fuzzy residents and also see some of the most pristine beaches in the country.

Day 2: Set off up the West Coast. It’s around a two-hour drive from Perth to Nambung National Park, home to the Pinnacles. After a day exploring here, bed down in your camper in Cervantes, a cute coastal town nearby.

Day 3: Check out Cervantes’ Thirsty Point for views of the Indian Ocean after brekky, before driving the four and a half hours to Kalbarri, where there are plenty of campsite options.

Day 4: Explore the spectacular Kalbarri National Park!

Day 5: It’s around a four-hour drive to the first of your stops in the beautiful Shark Bay region. First stop, Shell Beach!

Day 6-8: With so many gorgeous beaches and wildlife encounters fit to rival Blue Planet, you’ll want a few days to explore Francois Peron National Park, Monkey Mia’s wild dolphin feeding grounds and Shark Bay’s amply other sandy enclaves at your leisure – they’re all within a short drive of each other.

Day 9: You can drive on to Coral Bay in three hours and pitch up for the night, or choose to rest and have lunch before continuing onto Ningaloo.

Day 10: It’s a short drive from Coral Bay beach to Ningaloo, where you can spend the day diving with whale sharks, snorkelling with turtles or boat tripping out to see humpback whales.

Day 11: Drive time between Ningaloo and Exmouth is under two hours. You’ll want to spend a few days in this heavenly beach bum’s paradise, soaking up more of the Ningaloo reef, and the marine life you missed at your last stop.

Day 13: It’s an eight hour drive from Ningaloo to Karijini National Park, so make sure you’re well rested – camping overnight under a blanket of stars here is a must.

Day 14-15: Rise early to take in Karijini’s landscapes on Day 14. On Day 15, set off on the five hour drive to Port Hedland for an overnight stop. These parts are remote, but there’s plenty of campsites with amenities.

Day 16: Port Hedland to Eighty Mile Beach is a three hour drive. Although the sea full of nasty critters you wouldn’t want to swim with, sunrise, sunset and the endless empty tidal flats here are made for photo opportunities, beers and general zenning out.

Day 17: On to Broome! Abandon your trusty campervan here, mount one of Australia’s million native camels (the Middx East does import them from here, you know) and ride down Cable Beach.

Days 18-20: Optionally tag an off-road adventure in the Kimberley region onto the end of your West Coast roadie. This area needs4WD vehicle, so we recommend a tour.

Day 21 You could decide to continue travelling up the coast to Darwin, or start your journey down back to Perth or other destinations in Australia either by car or flight from Broome.

Australia’s East Coast really does get all the love, but the West Coast will steal your heart. It is generally less touristy than the East, and although it doesn’t have famous sights like the Great Barrier Reef and WhitSunday Islands, you will absolute love travelling in this region.

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Ultimate 3 Week Australia East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Natalia

Australia’s East Coast is known for being an incredible road trip destination, with a mix of stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, idyllic beaches, and more! There are some unforgettable bucket list experiences to enjoy on the east coast of Australia, from seeing the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns to the famous Opera House in Sydney. With an array of well-known spots and off-the-beaten-path hidden gems, there are a variety of attractions that cater to all types of travellers. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fuelled adventures, relaxing beach days, or unforgettable wildlife experiences, this region has it all. Having spent around 3 months travelling the country’s east coast, we’ve been fortunate enough to explore the area well.  This comprehensive three week East Coast Australia itinerary fits all of the highlights and some hidden gems into one epic road trip from Cairns to Sydney!

Need more help planning your trip? We can do the hard work for you with our custom travel itinerary service! We also recommend checking out this list of the 20 best apps for travelling Australia to make your trip as easy as possible!

Table of Contents

Ultimate 3 week East Coast of Australia Road Trip Itinerary

The best way to travel the East Coast of Australia is in either a camper van or motorhome, giving you the freedom and comfort of a home on wheels. There are plenty of campsites along the east coast ready to welcome you for the night, with both powered and unpowered sites available.

It may feel a little daunting driving a campervan or motorhome, but it’s much easier than it may seem. Although they are big vehicles, they’re very easy to drive – so don’t let the size put you off.

One of the huge benefits of a camper van or motorhome is that it’s your personal kitchen, with a fridge and cooking facilities – helping to keep costs low and save your budget for unique experiences on your trip! Some models even come equipped with air conditioning, so you can stay cool as you sleep!

You can find the best campervan or motorhome rental days for your Australian road trip on the Motorhome Republic website. They compare a variety of options and campervans/motorhomes to ensure you get the best price for your trip!

Click here to find the best deals for your road trip on the Motorhome Republic website!

Of course, it is possible to follow this incredible three week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary by car too,  but you will need to book accommodation in each stop along the way. If you’re looking to rent a car then make sure to visit the Tripadvisor website to compare the best deals between a number of operators!

Click here to see the best deals on the Tripadvisor website!

Alternatively, VRBO have some fantastic accommodation options if you want to rent a property instead of staying at a hotel! Click here to see the amazing options on the VRBO website!

Cairns (Days 1-4)

Start your amazing three week East Coast Australia itinerary in Cairns – the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Get your bearings which a quick walk through the CBD, which is home to numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and more.

Following this, head for the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon . This free, public saltwater lagoon is a safe swimming haven, unlike the beaches in the area which are inhabited by stingers and crocodiles.

Lay out your belongings on the grass or sand by the lagoon and take a refreshing dip. After cooling off in the water, meander along the Cairns Esplanade Boardwalk and take in the ocean views.

Next drive north for around 25 minutes to Palm Cove, a peaceful coastal village with towering palm trees lining the long sandy beach. Take a stroll along the sea to enjoy this picturesque spot, and maybe grab a bite to eat or drink at one of the nearby restaurants or bars.

From Palm Cove head to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which will take you on an incredible gondola ride up to Kuranda in the Atherton Tablelands. Along the way you will enjoy views of the Barron Gorge National Park, the impressive Barron Falls, and the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.

Tickets cost $157 AUD per person, which includes the gondola up to Kuranda and then a trip back to Cairns via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Click here to book your skysail and scenic railway tickets on the Get Your Guide website!

Once you arrive in Kuranda, take time to wander around the town – and if you’re visiting between Wednesday and Sunday then you might want to check out the Heritage Markets.

One thing you definitely don’t want to miss is the Kuranda Riverboat – a 45-minute guided nature cruise along the Barron River, with the possibility of spotting crocodiles, cassowaries, turtles, and more! At just $25 AUD per person, this trip is incredible value for what will be a highlight of your road trip along the East Coast of Australia. Book your trip now via the Kuranda Riverboat website.

If you’re taking the midday skyrail, then it’s best to take the 2.30pm riverboat trip as you should be in Kuranda in plenty of time before this trip, and it finishes just before your departure on the scenic railway back to Cairns.

On the second day of your three week East Coast Australia itinerary, you will explore more of the beautiful Atherton Tablelands, with its wonderful waterfalls and amazing wildlife. First up is the drive from Cairns to Millaa Millaa Falls, which should take around 90 minutes.

Millaa Milla Falls is a stunning 18-metre waterfall, nestled in the middle of lush rainforest. Take the chance to swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls, which is a great way to cool off from the tropical heat!

After drying off, take a 10-minute drive to the nearby Zillie Falls. Standing at 30-metres tall, the waterfall isn’t as easily accessible as Millaa Millaa, but thankfully a viewing platform does give a reasonable view. 

The path to the bottom of the Zillie Falls is steep at times, although is reasonably manageable for most of the way if you want to get a view of the falls from nearer the bottom. Either way, this lovely waterfall is a sight to behold!

Next up, head for the final waterfall of the day – the small but picturesque Eliinjaa Falls. With a height of 15 metres it’s still a lovely sight, and is another nice spot for a swim if you need to cool off! The falls are easily accessible via a paved path and stairs, and make sure to keep an eye out for turtles in the area!

Make sure to read our guide to the Cairns waterfall circuit in the Atherton Tablelands for more information on visiting these three beautiful waterfalls!

After you’ve visited all three waterfalls, it’s time to drive on to Peterson’s Creek in Yungaburra. The drive should take around 35 minutes, and once you arrive take a stroll along the creek.

This spot is a haven for wildlife, and you have the chance to see a number of rare species including tree kangaroos, platypuses, pademelons, and more! Platypus sightings are most common by the suspension bridge over the creek, so make sure to spend some time looking around there.

Wrap up your day at the Platypus Viewing Platform in Yungaburra, just a 2-minute drive from Peterson’s Creek. Sightings of these elusive creatures are fairly common here, but you will still need a bit of luck and patience.

If you don’t manage to spot one from the viewing platform, then head under the nearby bridge – as there are plenty of sightings there! After you’ve hopefully seen a platypus or two, make your way back to Cairns and unwind after another busy day!

Your final day in Cairns takes you on a thrilling adventure to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef – so you can’t miss this opportunity to snorkel or dive into its vibrant underwater world.

When it comes to booking a day trip to the reef, there are a few things to consider – like whether you want to snorkel or dive, and where exactly you want to visit. In terms of the latter, it’s best to visit some of the more remote parts of the reef – as it will be more secluded from other tour groups.

Get Your Guide offer a brilliant day trip that includes visits to three different sites on the outer reef. Both snorkelling and diving is available on this tour, and you will have plenty of time in the water to discover the incredible reef!

We took this tour and had an amazing day, and the reef sites were very impressive – with lots of incredible coral and marine life. We managed to see several turtles, a blue spotted stingray, a green humphead parrotfish, and much more!

Prices for a snorkelling tour start from just $270 AUD per person, but expect to pay more if you want to try an introductory dive at the reef. Certified dives are also available if you are a certified diver.

Click here to book your amazing Great Barrier Reef day trip on the Get Your Guide website!

Tours last up to 8 hours, and so you will spend much of the day exploring the reef. When you finally get back to Cairns you will be fairly worn out, as snorkelling and diving can be quite tiring – but it’s certainly worth it to see this natural wonder!

Make sure to read our three day Cairns itinerary for more detail of how to spend the first three days of your East Coast Australia itinerary, as they both cover the same spots!

Click here to find the best accommodation options in Cairns on Booking.com!

Mission Beach (Days 4-5)

Now it’s time to properly begin your 3 week Australian East Coast road trip itinerary, as you begin your journey down the coast from Cairns. Your first stop is Mission Beach, around a 2 hour drive south.

Mission Beach is a prime location for spotting one of Australia’s most unique birds – the cassowary. This endangered species is only found in the rainforests of North-East Queensland, as well as Papua New Guinea and some surrounding islands.

Growing up to 6 feet tall, cassowaries are one of the world’s largest birds, and they have a unique horn-like casque on top of their head. Mission Beach is one of the best places to spot a wild cassowary, so it’s a great place to walk through the rainforest to try and spot one!

Two of the best routes if you want to see a cassowary are the Lacey Creek Walk and the Dreaming Trail, with both paths leading through lush rainforest. Click here for more information on the best places to see cassowaries in Mission Beach!

If you are lucky enough to spot a cassowary, please keep in mind that they are wild animals and can potentially be dangerous. Always keep a safe distance, never feed them, and respect their natural habitat.

Of course you can’t visit the town of Mission Beach without actually visiting the beach. The beach stretches for 14 kilometres, and has some unique curved palm trees that make for a nice photo opportunity!

If you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for an unforgettable experience, then you can also skydive at Mission Beach. Freefall for up to 60 seconds from 15,000 feet, whilst taking in a unique birds eye perspective of Australia’s stunning east coast.

Weather permitting, you will land on Mission Beach itself after one of the most thrilling experiences of your life! Get Your Guide offer skydives from just $359 AUD per person, but make sure to book ahead to guarantee your preferred time!

Click here to book an amazing skydive on the Get Your Guide website!

It’s up to you whether you want to spend the night at Mission Beach, or continue on to Townsville. There are caravan parks and campsites suitable for campervans in both locations, and both have options if you’re looking to book accommodation too.

The advantage of continuing on to Townsville is that you will have a shorter drive the following day, but we suggest spending the night at Mission Beach and then just allowing plenty of time for the drive tomorrow.

Click here to find the best accommodation in Mission Beach on Booking.com!

Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays (Days 5-7)

Continue your epic East Coast Australia road trip itinerary down to Airlie Beach, the gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Airlie Beach is approximately a 6 hour drive from Mission Beach, or a 3 hour 15 minute drive from Townsville if you decided to travel further the previous day.

Along the drive, make sure to stop at the scenic Hinchinbrook Lookout which provides an incredible view of a river meandering through the rainforest, as well as mountains and Hinchinbrook Island in the background. A free car park is located just off the Bruce Highway, so it’s easily accessible – and there is space to park larger vehicles like campervans and RVs.

It’s just a short walk from the car park to the lookout point, and if you have time you can also visit the Panjoo lookout, which offers similarly wonderful views. As well as offering brilliant views, it’s a convenient place to stop to break up the drive – and you can rustle up some lunch while you’re stopped here too.

When you’re ready, continue the remainder of the way to Airlie Beach and spend the rest of the day settling in. If you have time then wander through the town and head to the Airlie Beach Lagoon for a swim. This impressive man-made lagoon is located in the centre of town and is free to use, so it’s a great place to relax and cool off from the tropical heat!

It’s time to set sail for an unforgettable day trip to the Whitsundays. This day will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Australian East Coast road trip itinerary, as you visit stunning viewpoints and one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.

Most boats depart for the Whitsundays at around 8am, so it’s a fairly early start. Thankfully there is plenty of time to relax on deck as you take in lovely oceans view whilst you sail towards the islands.

Prepare to be mesmerised by the the view from the Hill Inlet Lookout, known for its swirling sands and stunning blue waters. Then head down to the famous Whitehaven Beach, with pure white silica sands and crystal-clear waters that will tempt you in! Without a doubt, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches we’ve ever visited.

If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot some stingrays and lemon sharks in the waters to the right of the main beach. The stingrays and sharks come right up to shore, and thankfully the sharks aren’t considered dangerous to humans – so it’s safe to be in the water with them! We were fortunate to see a number of sharks and stingrays here, and this unexpected encounter turned out to be one of the highlights of our East Coast Australia itinerary!

The easiest way to book a day trip to the Whitsundays is through Cruise Whitsundays on the Get Your Guide website, with prices starting at just $229 AUD per person. We took this exact tour and had an amazing trip, and the trip includes visits to the iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout, as well as snorkelling stop.

To top if off, this all-inclusive tour includes morning and afternoon tea, a lunch buffet and barbecue, as well as unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks during your trip! Click here to book this amazing day trip to the Whitsundays on the Get Your Guide website!

Click here to find the best places to stay in Airlie Beach on the Booking.com website!

Clairview (Days 7-8)

Your next stop is Clairview, a tiny coastal town around a 3 hour drive from Airlie Beach. Before you leave Airlie Beach though, don’t miss the chance to take an incredible scenic flight of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef.

Flights last 60 minutes and give you a unique chance to get a birds eye view of the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. The views are simply breathtaking, and for us this was a highlight of not only our 3 week East Coast itinerary, but our entire 6 month trip in Australia!

Try to time your flight for low tide if you can by searching tide times in advance online , as both the swirling sands of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef are best viewed during low tide. One of the many highlights of these flights is the chance to see the famous Heart Reef, a stunning piece of coral that naturally formed into the shape of a heart in the pristine Hardy Reef.

Flights are surprisingly affordable, with prices starting from just $308 AUD per person. Considering you get a 60-minute flight filled with stunning natural beauty, it’s completely worth the price in our opinion – and we cannot recommend it enough!

Click here to book an amazing scenic flight on the Get Your Guide website!

After your exhilarating flight, it’s time to hit the road again to continue your East Coast road trip as you journey from Airlie Beach to Clairview. In Clairview you will need to stay in the Barracrab Caravan Park – which gives you the chance to stay right by the beach.

If you’re travelling in a campervan or motorhome then you can book an unpowered or powered site on their website, but if you’re travelling by car you will need to book one of the bungalows. Make sure to book in advance to ensure you have somewhere to stay, as there aren’t any other places to stay nearby! Click here to visit the Barracrab Caravan Park website!

The caravan park has a beachfront bar that serves food, so you can enjoy a drink or two with dinner. Make sure to take a stroll along the beach before you leave, and keep an eye out for turtles or dugongs which can sometimes be spotted from shore – and we managed to spot a number of turtles on our visit.

Try to time your walk for high tide, as during low tide the water is a long way from the beachfront. As you walk along the beach you will also see a number of mangrove trees just off shore, which help make this a picturesque spot to stay.

Hervey Bay and K’gari (Days 8-10)

After a night in Clairview it’s time to hit the road again, as you journey on to Hervey Bay. It takes around 7 hours to drive from Clairview to Hervey Bay, so make sure to split the driving if you’re travelling with others or stop every few hours if you’re driving solo.

It’s worth having a reasonably early start so that you don’t arrive to Hervey Bay too late in the day. Once you do arrive, take the chance to stretch your legs and take a wander around the town.

An interesting spot to visit is the Urangan Pier, which stretches for 868 metres out to sea. It’s nice to walk along the pier out to sea, and you can spot fishes, stingrays, and if you’re really lucky maybe even a dugong!

After a walk, it’s best to have a relatively chilled evening after a long drive and ahead of a trip to K’gari Island the following day.

Day nine of your three week East Coast Australia itinerary is a day trip from Hervey Bay to the island of K’gari, formerly known as Fraser Island. K’gari is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to being the largest sand island in the world, and is home to tropical rainforest, shifting sand dunes, stunning lakes, and more!

The easiest option for your day trip is to book onto a tour, which will take you to the main attractions on the island. It is possible to hire a 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) and drive around the island yourself, but we suggest only doing this if you’re experienced in driving a 4WD. Driving on the island can be tricky and dangerous, so we suggest booking a tour so that you have an experienced driver doing the hard work for you!

Different operators may offer slightly different itineraries for your trip to K’gari, but most will include the beautiful Lake McKenzie, the SS Maheno Shipwreck, 75 Mile Beach, and Eli Creek.

One of the highlights of any trip to K’gari is a visit to Lake Mckenzie, a pristine freshwater lake with unbelievably clear turquoise waters and white silica sand. Swimming in the lake’s crystal-clear water is the perfect way to cool off from the heat!

Your trip to the island will involve a drive along a stretch of 75 Mile Beach – which is used as a highway for 4 Wheel Drives to get between some of the island’s main attractions. Along the beach you will have the chance to stop for a swim in the clear waters of Eli Creek, as well as being able to visit the impressive yet eerie SS Maheno Shipwreck – the rusting remains of a ship beached during a cyclone in 1935.

As you journey around the island you will learn about what makes it so unique as the largest sand island in the world, as well as having the chance to spot wild dingoes if you’re lucky! K’gari is one of the best places to see dingoes in the wild, so fingers crossed you’ll manage to see one or two. We were fortunate enough to see four on our visit (from the safety of the bus), so you have a reasonable chance if you keep your eyes peeled!

Get Your Guide offer a brilliant 4 Wheel Drive coach tour of K’gari, which includes visits to Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, 75 Mile Beach, the Maheno Shipwreck, and more! The cost of this tour is $259 AUD per person, with lunch and return ferry transport included in the price. Click here to book an amazing day trip to K’gari on the Get Your Guide website!

Click here to find amazing accommodation options in Hervey Bay on Booking.com!

Optional Extra Day

If you have time to add an extra day to your trip, then you may want to consider a multi-day trip to K’gari/Fraser Island. This way you get to spend the night on K’gari, and it gives you two days to explore its natural beauty and the different attractions around the island.

Viator offer a 2 day guided tour to K’gari, which includes overnight accommodation, 4 Wheel Drive coach transport, return ferries, and most of your meals from $639 AUD per person. Opting for this tour means you will get to see more of K’gari, including Lake Wabby, Indian Head, and the Champagne Pools.

Click here to book a 2-day tour to K’gari on the Viator website!

Noosa Heads (Days 10-12)

The next stop on your road trip is Noosa Heads, a small coastal town around a two hour drive south of Hervey Bay. As it’s only a short drive, you don’t need to set off too early – and if you happen to be visiting between June and October then you can take a whale watching tour from Hervey Bay before continuing your road trip.

These boat tours start at 8.30am and give you the chance to see migrating humpback whales, which are truly incredible to see in person. Tours last for four hours and cost just $135 AUD per person, which is great value for a rare chance to see these majestic animals up close and in the wild!

Click here to book an unforgettable whale watching trip from Hervey Bay on the Get Your Guide website!

Unfortunately we visited Hervey Bay in May, just before the whale watching season had started so we didn’t have chance to take a tour. Thankfully we’ve been fortunate enough to see humpback whales whilst whale watching in Akureyri, Iceland – and we can safely say it’s an amazing experience that you won’t want to miss!

After a thrilling morning of whale watching, it’s time to hit the road again and undertake the two hour drive to Noosa Heads. Once you get to the town, head for a stroll down Hastings Street. This street is the heart of the town with a variety of shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and more!

If low tide falls during mid to late afternoon, then head to the amazing Fairy Pools in Noosa National Park. These natural rock pools are only accessible during low tide, and are one of the most beautiful spots to visit in the area. Click here to check tide times in Noosa.

Take the chance to swim in these picturesque pools, which have lovely views overlooking the ocean. It takes around 30-45 minutes to walk to the Fairy Pools along the Noosa National Park coastal walk, and you get some lovely views along the way!

With some luck you may even spot some dolphins, migrating whales (between June and October), or koalas as you walk through the park. Find out everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful spot with our guide to the Noosa Fairy Pools!

If low tide doesn’t happen to be in the afternoon, then it should hopefully be low tide at some point the following morning – so plan to visit the pools then instead!

Day 11 of your East Coast Australia road trip itinerary varies depending on whether you managed to visit the Fairy Pools the previous day. If you didn’t visit them already, hopefully low tide will allow you to visit on the morning of day 11.

Alternatively, if you’ve already been to the Fairy Pools then there are two options of what to do. The first option is to have a relaxing morning on the Noosa Heads beach, where you can soak up some sun and go for a swim.

Option two is to visit Mount Coolum , which is around a 25-minute drive south of Noosa. Climb to the summit for some incredible views of the Sunshine Coast, with the walk taking around 30-45 minutes one-way.

In the afternoon you will have the chance to see some more of the area’s natural beauty, as you take a cruise through the Noosa Everglades. With only two everglade systems in the world, the other being the famous Florida Everglades, this is an opportunity not to be missed!

The Noosa Everglades are home to a variety of wildlife and birdlife, and with some luck you will have some interesting sightings during your cruise. Enjoy commentary throughout your trip, and you even get a beer or glass of sparkling wine included in the price!

Tickets can be booked through Get Your Guide for just $84 AUD per person, with trips departing at 2pm and lasting for approximately 3 hours. Click here to book a unique cruise through the Noosa Everglades on the Get Your Guide website!

Click here to find great accommodation options in Noosa on the Booking.com website!

Sunshine Coast (Days 12-13)

Noosa is actually part of the Sunshine Coast, so you don’t need to drive too far before your next stop. There are a couple of options for how you want to spend your day discovering the Sunshine Coast – either enjoying the beautiful beaches or venturing into the hinterland.

If you fancy a more relaxing day, head to one of the beaches in Mooloolaba , Caloundra, or Currimundi. These spots are home to some of the nicest beaches in the Sunshine Coast, so you can spend your day sunbathing and having a swim in the sea.

Alternatively, if you’re up for doing something a bit more active then head into the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to visit the quaint towns of Montville and Maleny, and enjoy a hike in the Kondalilla National Park.

Head to Montville first and wander through the town, visiting the various artisan shops, art gallery, and cafes. Make sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Montville to help you decide what to do while you’re there!

Next up, head to the nearby Kondalilla National Park and hike to Kondalilla Falls. It’s not too strenuous of a hike, but it does involve ascending and descending a fair distance by stairs – which can be a bit of work in the heat! Check out our guide to the Kondalilla Falls circuit hike for more information!

After a few hours of hiking it’s time to take it easier for the rest of the day, so head to Maleny to visit more independent shops and wander through this pleasant town. Don’t miss the nearby McCarthy’s Lookout, which offers some stunning views of the Glass House Mountains! Read our guide to the best things to do in Maleny for more ideas of what to do in the town!

Where you end up spending the night depends on how you’ve spent your day, but assuming you’re travelling by campervan there will be a few different options in terms of campsites. Alternatively, there are plenty of great hotels and places to stay in the area too.

Click here to see the best accommodation options in the Sunshine Coast on the Booking.com website!

Brisbane (Days 13-14)

It should only take around 1-2 hours to drive to Brisbane from the Sunshine Coast, giving you almost a full day to explore the city. We recommend having an early start so that you can maximise your time in Brisbane.

Start your day with a visit to City Hall – one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a fine work or architecture .The highlight here is the chance to visit the Clock Tower, which offers great views of the city from above! Clock Tower tours last just 15 minutes but require advance booking – so click here to book your tour now!

Your next stop is the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, which you can walk to from City Hall in around 10 minutes. Take a walk through the gardens and enjoy this lovely green space, which is a tranquil escape from the busy city streets.

When you’ve finished up in the gardens, walk across the Goodwill Bridge into Southbank. Wander along the South Bank Grand Arbour – a kilometre long pathway with a purple bougainvillea canopy growing on steel arches. Head in the direction of the Streets Beach – a man-made beach that is free to use, and is a great place to cool off in the heat!

Next, head to the Wilson Outlook Reserve for a stunning view of the city skyline and famous Story Bridge. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy sunset if you can time it right, but it’s still a wonderful view at any time of day.

Your final stop for the day should be the vibrant Fortitude Valley. Grab some dinner at one of the many trendy restaurants, and make sure to check out the wide variety of nightlife in this inner-suburb. With everything from cocktails bars to dive bars to nightclubs, there are a plenty of great places for a drink or two!

For more detail of how to spend your time in the city, make sure to read our one day in Brisbane itinerary! There are also some great nighttime activities in the city – so check out our guide to the best things to do in Brisbane at night if you fancy some different activities to fill your evening.

If you’re travelling by campervan then stay at one of the campsites outside of the city, but if you’re looking for accommodation then make sure to read our guide to the best hotels and places to stay in Brisbane!

Bryon Bay (Days 14-16)

The first two weeks of your East Coast Australia road trip itinerary are spent in Queensland, but on day 14 you will reach the state of New South Wales. It’s approximately a 2 hour drive from Brisbane to the famous coastal town of Byron Bay, located in the north of New South Wales. Known for its beaches, good surfing, and hippie culture, the town is one of the most popular stops on the East Coast of Australia.

Aim to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon, which gives you time to enjoy the Byron Bay lighthouse walk before sunset. This popular walk along the Cape Byron walking track begins in the town centre, and leads through rainforest and along clifftops up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Along the way you will get some beautiful ocean and beach views, and if you’re lucky you might even spot dolphins! If you’re visiting between June and October then you may even spot migrating humpback whales.

This 4 kilometre scenic loop is well worth the time, and is not a particularly strenuous walk – despite being steep at points. It’s well worth the effort for the lovely views, and is an ideal spot to enjoy a stunning sunset in Byron Bay.

Spend the remainder of your day taking it relatively easy, and enjoying some of the famous Byron Bay nightlife!

Dive into the day with a breathtaking two and a half hour sea kayaking tour on the pristine waters of Byron Bay. Offering the chance to see wild dolphins and turtles, this tour is another highlight of your 3 week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary.

Enjoy beautiful views of the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse from your kayak as you paddle through the Cape Byron Marine Park. As you paddle, your guide will tell you about local history, and help to spot any wildlife nearby.

Dolphins and turtles are seen regularly on these tours, and in the whale watching season it’s even possible to see migrating humpback whales from your kayak! Of course it’s impossible to guarantee sightings of these animals, but if you don’t see any dolphins, turtles, or whales, you do have the option of another tour free of charge – which you should be able to squeeze in the following morning if need be!

Tours are easy to book online through Get Your Guide, and cost just $89 AUD per person. This price includes all the equipment, instructions from an experienced guide, wet suit hire, and free photos from your trip!

Click here to book an unforgettable sea kayaking tour on the Get Your Guide website!

Take it easy for the remainder of the day, as the kayaking can be quite tiring – but it’s worth the effort to see some incredible marine life up close! Spend the rest of the day having a wander around the town, where there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy – so take your pick for a relaxing afternoon and evening.

Click here to find the best hotels and places to stay in Byron Bay on Booking.com!

Coffs Harbour (Days 16-17)

It’s time to hit the road again for the penultimate time on your Cairns to Sydney East Coast Australia road trip. Your destination for the day is Coffs Harbour, which is around a 2 hour 30 minute drive from Byron Bay.

Around 15 minutes before you reach Coffs Harbour, make a stop at the Moonee Beach Nature Reserve – one of the hidden gems on Australia’s East Coast. The reserve is home to the Look At Me Now Headland walk, a lovely trail by the ocean with scenic coastal views.

While the views are impressive, it’s the native wildlife that steals the show here. Get ready to meet the charismatic resident kangaroos, often found grazing or lazing in the sun, or hopping around the headland.

Seeing wild kangaroos in this beautiful setting is special, and for us was a highlight of our Australian East Coast road trip. If you’re lucky you may see the kangaroos on one of the beaches too – similar to the kangaroos at Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia.

Spend around an hour wandering along the headland walk and enjoying seeing kangaroos up close. If you want to make the walk a bit longer you can always head down to Moonee Beach itself and take a stroll along this long stretch of sandy beach.

Once you’ve finished your walk, continue driving for around 15 minutes and you will reach Coffs Harbour. Take it relatively easy for the remainder of the day as the following day involves around 6 hours of driving.

Click here to find some great accommodation options in Coffs Harbour on the Booking.com website!

Sydney (Days 17-21)

The final drive of your three week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary is from Coffs Harbour to Sydney. It’s around a 5 and a half hour drive along the east coast, so make sure to take a few breaks to stretch your legs!

Just over half an hour into the drive you will pass Nambucca Heads, and it’s worth stopping here for a couple of wonderful lookout points. Rotary Lookout and Captain Cook Lookout provide beautiful views of swirling sands similar to that of the Whitsundays! Although it’s not long into the drive, it’s definitely a nice enough spot to justify an early break.

After visiting the lookouts, hit the road again and continue on your 3 week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary. When you do get to Sydney it may be worth returning your campervan on this day as it’s easier to explore the city and surroundings using public transport.

If you would prefer to stay at a campsite you can of course do so for the remaining days, but after a few weeks on the road it’s nice to get back to a proper bed and stay in a hotel for the last few nights of your trip.

Spend your first full day in Sydney visiting some of the main attractions in Australia’s capital city. Prepare yourself for plenty of walking, as you discover some of the city’s most iconic spots – and from now on you will be following our four day Sydney itinerary.

Start your day with a stroll through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens , home to 30 hectares of beautiful gardens. There are several paths to walk along, but make sure to head up to the waterfront by Mrs Macquarie’s Chair to get amazing views of Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

Continue along the path by the waterfront, and eventually you will arrive at the Opera House. No visit to Sydney is complete without seeing the iconic Opera House up close, so take this opportunity to walk around the outside and admire this unique work of architecture. If you need to give your legs a break then grab a drink or bite to eat at the Opera Bar before continuing your day.

Next up, take a wander through the CBD to discover more of the city. The CBD is home to a mix of towering skyscrapers, malls, shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and more! Whether you are shopping at the high-end designer stores or grabbing a cup of coffee, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

After you’ve explored the CBD, head to The Rocks – a charming neighbourhood with historic cobblestone laneways and a famous weekend market. Situated in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the neighbourhood has plenty to see as you wander around – including some great bars and restaurants with views of the Sydney Harbour.

Your next stop is Darling Harbour, a waterfront precinct home to museums, restaurants, bars, and more! It’s a great spot to enjoy a few drinks on a sunny day, as well as being a pleasant place for a stroll – if you’re not too tired out by this point!

If you still have the energy then head back to the Sydney Opera House to finish the day with drinks at the Opera Bar. The outside bar area is a lovely place to be at night, thanks to the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour!

Start your day by heading for the world-famous Bondi Beach, known for its golden sand, blue sea, and great surf. If you fancy an early morning dip then head straight into the water, but there will be plenty of time for that later too!

When you’re ready, it’s time for the renowned Bondi to Coogee walk. Stretching for 6 kilometres, the walk offers stunning ocean views and is one of the essential things to do in Sydney!

The walk takes around 2-3 hours to complete, and involves sections along clifftops as well as via a number of brilliant beaches including Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, and Coogee Beach. There are stairs and some steep sections along the route, but it’s not too strenuous and is undoubtedly worth the effort for the brilliant views.

If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of dolphins in the sea, and between May and November you can even see migrating whales from this coastal walk! Once you reach Coogee you can either retrace your steps back to Bondi, but at that point you may prefer to give your feet a rest and take a taxi instead.

Spend the remainder of the day in Bondi, where you can pass the hours relaxing and swimming at the beach. Make sure to explore the neighbourhood too, as there are plenty of great cafes, restaurants, and bars in the area.

If you fancy a drink with a view then it’s worth heading to the Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club, which you will have passed on your walk earlier. Home to a large seafront pool, there is also a bar at the Bondi Icebergs which has a wonderful view of Bondi Beach – making it the ideal place for a drink or two!

Prepare to be amazed at the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Mountains, an easy day trip from Sydney. It’s a two hour train journey from Sydney Central Station to the charming small town of Katoomba, which acts as a gateway to this majestic mountainous region.

On arrival in Katoomba, walk through the town and head for the Echo Point Lookout – offering panoramic views of rocky cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation. It’s only a half an hour walk from Katoomba station to Echo Point, and the view is one of the best in the Blue Mountains National Park.

After you’ve soaked in this incredible view, it’s time to embark on the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. This winding path leads to breathtaking viewpoints, and leads in both directions from Echo Point – so it’s up to you how much walking you want to do!

In total the Prince Henry Cliff Walk covers 7 kilometres, but if you don’t want to walk so much then simply follow the trail from Echo Point to Katoomba Falls. With a total height of 244 metres over three vertical drops, this waterfall is a truly spectacular sight!

Ideally you will be able to walk along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, although sometimes path closures do happen. Make sure to check the New South Wales national parks website for up to date information on any closures.

If you don’t fancy doing so much walking then you have the option for a hop-on-hop-off bus, which can be booked via Get Your Guide. Costing just $49 AUD per person, this bus takes you to some of the best spots around Katoomba for seeing the incredible Blue Mountains! Click here to book your hop-on-hop-off bus tickets on the Get Your Guide website!

There are various other walking trails, lookouts, and waterfalls to visit if you want to fill more time, but when you’re ready head back into Katoomba itself. Round off your deal with a meal and a drink in one of the town’s many restaurants, before boarding a train back to Sydney.

After three weeks you have reached the final day of your 3 week East Coast Australia road trip itinerary. Spend your last day visiting the popular seaside suburb of Manly, a relaxing way to end your East Coast trip.

Begin by taking the iconic Manly Ferry from Circular Quay, an enjoyable boat journey that offers incredible views of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge. Try to get a seat outside so that you can get some great pictures and soak in the wonderful views.

Once you reach Manly, walk along the Corso – a pedestrian friendly street that runs from nearby the ferry wharf to the impressive Manly Beach. There are a number of shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants along the Corso, so either pop in or make a note of anywhere you may want to visit later!

Manly Beach is known for its fantastic surf – and was actually home to the world’s first surfing competition in 1964. Thankfully it’s also a great beach for sunbathing and going for a swim, so take advantage of this lovely spot. The beach stretches for quite some distance, so it’s also nice to take a stroll along the beachfront promenade.

At the far end of the beach, nearby to the Queenscliff Rockpool, is the Manly Wormhole. Climb on the rocks here and you can get some lovely views of Manly Beach, and there is an opening that leads through the rocks to a small area with some lovely sea views.

Next up, take the coastal path in the direction of Shelly Beach. Once there follow the Shelly Beach walking track for some wonderful lookouts over the area, offering some picturesque spots for some final photos of your East Australia trip.

It’s up to you how you spend the last few hours of your day – either find a nice restaurant or bar in Manly, or catch the ferry back to Sydney a bit earlier and potentially back to the Opera Bar for another night drinking by the famous Opera House!

If you’re looking for more activities and things to do in Sydney, then make sure to check out the wide variety of options through Get Your Guide. Click here to find more amazing things to do in Sydney on the Get Your Guide website!

Click here to find some incredible places to stay in Sydney on the Booking.com website!

Looking to visit other places in Australia? Check out our 2 day Great Ocean Road itinerary and our day trip itinerary to Rottnest Island!

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