road trip map planner australia

Best Road Trip Planner Australia

Planning a Road Trip? Introducing the All Around Oz Road Trip Planner – your perfect co-traveller! Whether you’re planning your first roadtrip or are a seasoned road tripper, this free resource is designed to make your road trip more effortless, enjoyable, and memorable.

Designed by a caravanner and camper for caravanners and campers to plan a road trip, this tool lets you create, customise, and print your unique road trip itineraries.

How To Use the Australian Road Trip Planner

Plan your road trip itinerary using our road trip planner below to track each stop.

To use our free Road Trip Planner, add your starting location and finishing location in the marked boxes below.

Need to add some stops along the way? Add your stops to your road trip by using the box supplied.

To add extra stops simply click on the plus sign and if you want to remove any stops, click on the minus sign.

Click on the “Plan My Trip” button when complete and your map, complete with instructions will be provided.

To print your map and instructions for your road trip, simply click the “Print” button situated at the end beneath the map once you have used the “Plan My Trip” button.

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Dreaming of the open road? From expansive outback adventures to dramatic coastline routes and lush green landscapes, there’s no better place to traverse on wheels than Australia. Choose a type of road trip, location and duration that suits you; your journey begins here.

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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 !

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

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Australia Road Trip Planner: How To Plan The Perfect Road Trip In Australia

Posted on Last updated: January 4, 2024

So you’ve sorted your visa and have booked flights for Australia, and you’re now getting ready and planning the perfect road trip in Australia.

Australia is an extremely popular backpacker destination and road trips along the stunning coastline of the land down under are almost a rite of passage for many.

In this Australia road trip planner I’ve tried including everything you might need to know about planning your own Australia road trip, including how to find the perfect vehicle, when to visit, where to go, what to pack and more.

So start reading and planning your ideal Australia road trip!

• 1 Best time to road trip Australia
• 2 Finding the right road trip vehicle
• 3 How long do you need for the perfect Australia road trip?
• 4.1 Great Ocean Road
• 4.2 Australia East Coast: Pacific Coast Way
• 5.1 Car entertainment
• 5.2 Kitchen utensils
• 5.3 Practical extras
• 6 Where to stay in Australia

The Milky Way seen from somewhere along the Pacific Coast Way, Australia

Best time to road trip Australia

Australia is a huge country (bigger than the whole of Europe!) and is characterised by a wide variety of climates and landscapes.

As such there isn’t really a specific time of year that is better than another to visit, it all depends on where in Australia you are going.

Queensland and the northern parts of the country have an almost tropical weather and you can expect high temperatures all year round, if you head south to Melbourne and surroundings you can expect to find all four seasons like in Europe.

Just remember that the seasons are opposite compared to Europe and that when it’s summer in Europe it’s actually winter in Australia.

Befriending the locals at Cape Hillsborough Beach in Australia

Finding the right road trip vehicle

This one largely depends on how long you are planning on being in Australia for.

For a short road trip the easiest things to do is rent a car, however if you’re looking to spend a long time on the road in Australia you might want to consider purchasing a vehicle.

There is a big working holiday and road trip culture in Australia, which makes it very easy to buy and sell used cars. A good place to look for your perfect vehicle is Gumtree ; a site where people buy and sell used things.

You can also check out backpacker Facebook groups for the city you are staying in or the noticeboards of your hostel, chances are that other backpackers who are done with their Australia road trips are looking to sell their vehicles.

| READ MORE: 15 AUSSIE ADVENTURES YOU CAN’T MISS |

Driving on the beach on Fraser Island, Australia

Before purchasing your vehicle just make sure you take into account everything you want and need it to do. For example; will you be staying in hostels along the way or do you want to camp?

Where do you want to road trip and what are the roads like? What is your budget? These and others are all things to take into account that will help you narrow your search and find the ideal vehicle for your trip.

If you’re just looking to get from A to B and will be sleeping in hostels you might be happy with a simple and efficient hatchback, if you want to camp you might be looking for an iconic Aussie van, if you’re going into the outback you might want a 4×4.

Make sure to take everything into account and search for a car that ticks all the boxes.

Driving on the Great Ocean Road

How long do you need for the perfect Australia road trip?

Lots of young backpackers visit Australia on a 1-year working holiday visa, and often extend it to 2 years after doing 3 months of farm work.

If you don’t have months or years to spend in Australia don’t fret or feel like you’re not getting the real experience.

Australia is a huge country and you need time to see it, but you can have the perfect Aussie road trip even on a 2-week vacation from work.

I spent just over a month in Australia, during which I did two main road trips; on the Australian East Coast for 2 weeks and on the Great Ocean Road for a long weekend, plus other trips to Uluru , Melbourne and Sydney .

Regardless of how long you have in Australia make sure to take into account for long driving times.

View over Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour from Pylon Lookout

Sample Australia road trip itineraries

We’ve gone through all the essential road trip information like how to find the right vehicle, when to visit Australia and what to pack, so by now you might be wondering where should you even be road tripping in Australia?

There are a number of iconic road trips in Australia that you should consider adding to your travel bucket list.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous and iconic road trips in the world. Characterised by its stunning coastline in 2017 it received 5 million visitors. The road itself is only 244 km and can be driven in 8 hours.

You need to adapt your itinerary depending on how much time you have and how much of the Great Ocean Road you want to see.

We started in Melbourne and spent 2 days on the Great Ocean Road and found it a good amount of time that allowed us to see all the main landmarks without rushing.

From sunset at the Twelve Apostles and the Bay of Islands, to chasing waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park, our weekend itinerary covered it all.

Obviously if you have longer you can spend more time at every stop and see more of the Great Ocean Road.

| READ MORE: 14 MUST SEE PLACES ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD |

Sunset at the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell National Park, Australia

Australia East Coast: Pacific Coast Way

The Australian East Coast road trip seems to be a rite of passage for all backpackers in Australia.

We spent two weeks road tripping from Cairns to Brisbane but some travellers go as far south as Sydney   and Blue Mountains (and then all the way round to Melbourne if you really have lots of time available)!

The wide variety of landscapes and climates makes this a truly unique road trip.

In the same trip you can scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef , you can see the Daintree Rainforest (the oldest rainforest in the world), the crystal clear water and white sand beaches of the Whitsunday Islands , the dingoes in Fraser Island and the rock pools of Noosa .

We found two weeks was a good amount of time for this road trip, any less would have felt very rushed with too much driving time, but if you’re not in a rush you can take it slower and spend longer at every stop.

| READ MORE: PACIFIC COAST WAY ROAD TRIP IN 2 WEEKS |

The view of Whitehaven Beach from Cape Hinlet in the Whitsunday Islands, Australia

There are plenty of other road trips you can do in Australia, I mean you could even drive around the whole country if you wanted to!

Check out these guides on the ultimate Australia bucket list and the best road trips in Australia to give you some more inspiration on where to go during your Australian road trip.

Kangaroos on the beach at sunrise at Cape Hillsborough, Australia

What to pack for an Australian road trip

What to bring on an Australian road trip largely depends on how long you plan to be on the road for.

I won’t get in the nitty gritty of how many pairs of socks or underwear you are going to need (I hope you can figure that one without my help!) but you can get some inspiration from my Australian outback packing list or my rainy season packing list  (it’s based on my trip to Thailand but still relevant for any destination that experiences tropical weather).

The items I’ve listed here are more specific to things you might need on the road if you plan to camp or spend very long periods of time driving.

Car entertainment

This one is a pretty essential part of any road trip packing list. Especially if you’re travelling with children, it’s essential to have some road trip games for kids ready.

During our Cairns to Brisbane road trip on some days we spent up to 8 hours driving and if we didn’t have some games to entertain us, we would have probably gone a bit crazy.

It doesn’t have to be anything complex, but simple things like an AUX chord to plug in your phone to the car stereo and put on some music when there’s no radio reception can be a life changer.

Even if you don’t have the space to play cards a deck of cards can be used for magic tricks and all sorts of higher vs lower games while you’re on the road. If you don’t want to add any weight to your bags, check out these 14 road trip games .

Getting up close to Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park, Australia

Kitchen utensils

If you’re buying or renting a camper van odds are that it will already come equipped with all the necessary gear to eat on the road.

If it doesn’t however you will have to purchase everything from plates to cutlery , chopping boards , pots and pans , bowls , washing products , sponges or cloths and even gas stoves .

If you’re planning on staying in hostels or apartments these usually come with fully equipped kitchens that you can use so you won’t need to purchase all the above.

However if you think you might stop for a barbecue somewhere along the way it’s a good idea to pack at least the essentials to make sure you’re ready for a meal on the road.

A very Aussie barbecue

Practical extras

Regardless of whether you’re planning on camping or sleeping in hotels, apartments or hostels there are some practical extras you might find useful on the road.

For example toilet roll (might seem obvious I know!) so if a sudden need strikes in the middle of the outback you’re ready.

You need a tank of extra fuel in the booth, since you don’t know how far the next gas station will be.

Blanket and pillows as appropriate if you’re planning on sleeping on the road or just want to take really great naps while someone else drives (you can add ear plugs and sleeping masks to the mix if you want to take it to the next level).

Bin bags so you can put together all the trash you accumulate in the car. These are just suggestions to help guide you in the right direction, think of the kind of road trip you’re planning and what you will need and pack accordingly.

Views over the ocean from the Daintree Rainforest, Australia

Where to stay in Australia

If you’re purchasing a van or camper van I’m guessing you want to camp during your Australia road trip.

However occasionally if you want to sleep in an actual room with walls around you, there are plenty of hostels, hotels and apartments both in big cities and smaller towns in Australia.

Especially in the main stops along famous road trip routes the local destinations are used to seeing lots of backpackers passing through.

I personally found hostels to be rather expensive, especially in trendy areas like Bondi , with some of them starting at 30 AUD per night for a bed in a shared dorm.

Comparatively when there was 5 of us road tripping on the East Coast we sometimes spent less than that per person for a nice apartment with more than one bathroom and kitchen.

Make sure to check all accommodation options online before booking (if you’ve never used AirBnb before, get $30 off here )!

Inside Loch Ard Gorge, Great Ocean Road, Australia

Final thoughts on planning a road trip in Australia

Have you been on a road trip in Australia before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

If you’ve been on an epic road trip in Australia and want to add anything to this guide let me know, I’d love to include your input to make it even more complete!

I compiled this guide based on my own road trip experience in Australia, however I haven’t been on a prolonged camper van or camping trip, so I might be lacking some insight on that aspect.

I hope you find this Australia road trip planner useful in planning the perfect Australia road trip!

Enjoyed reading my Australia road trip planner? Pin it!

Disclaimer:  This post was written in collaboration with Gumtree Australia. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

For those who are planning their first visit to Australia, here’s just a taste of what awaits on this vast continent.

Picture this awesome combination of sights –tanned surfers chasing the perfect wave on endless golden beaches, some of the world’s oldest, lushest, and most spectacular rainforests, and, towering above, snow-covered mountainous peaks. Where else in the world do you meet people who are so friendly and full of zest for life that they’ve adopted the slogan, "No worries mate!" as their approach to life? And the language… so full of charming slang that no one else will understand, and the accent…so incredibly delightful. This is Australia, my friends!

Melbourne is a cosmopolitan, trendy city with an exceptional blend of culture, nature, arts, sports, and cuisine.

Sydney, Australia, invites visitors to indulge in experiences that blend natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a lively cultural scene. 

Alice Springs

Alice Springs, or "Alice" as it’s called by the locals, is a remote town in Australia’s Northern Territory and the heart of Australia’s Red

Fraser Island

Port Douglas

Surfers Paradise

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For those who are planning their first visit to Australia, what do you need to know? There are countless outstanding experiences to be had– here’s just a taste of what awaits on this vast continent with its extraordinary variety of landscapes and cultures.

Nature lovers, don’t miss the opportunity to dive among the endless colorful corals and tropical fish in the Great Barrier Reef – the longest coral strip in the world- off the coast of Queensland or to hike in the dramatic Blue Mountains, a preserved site, whose name derives from the bluish hue which rises from its cover of eucalyptus leaves. Speaking of hikes, visit Kakadu National Park in the northern part of Australia’s Northern Territory with its canyons, swamps, and lagoons, and tour Nambung National Park in Western Australia which contains the Pinnacles Desert – a unique area with the surreal site of thousands of tall limestone formations -as well as beautiful beaches and flowering plants. And don’t leave out a stop in Tasmania, the island off the coast of the continent with unspoiled landscapes and outstanding treks.

You can also experience Australia’s spectacular beauty on a ride on the winding scenic train of Kuranda through the world’s oldest rainforest, and by driving on the Great Ocean Road , one of the most picturesque roads in the world winding along the southeast coast of Australia. A visit to the Outback, the unpopulated, red heart of Australia is an unforgettable experience, especially seeing Uluru, the giant red monolith and the most sacred place of the Aborigines. Visit the country’s wild life parks and watch the koalas, jumping kangaroos, and other animals which are endemic to Australia.

Spend a few days in Sydney , Australia’s largest city, which is the cradle of European settlement on the continent and among the world’s most beautiful cities. The iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-see – in fact, for the full experience, we recommend that you visit at sunset and sit in one of the many local bars, beer in hand, watching the incredible views. The Bay Bridge- another Sydney icon- is stunning, and a visit to Darling Harbor, surrounded by lively, fun-loving Australians is a unique, enjoyable way to spend an evening. Be sure to wander around Sydney's Chinatown and taste the delicious local food.

Visit Melbourne , with its charming Victorian buildings, spectacular botanical gardens, widely diverse cuisine, and fascinating multiculturalism. Enjoy a rich ethnic meal after a stop at the huge Victoria Market . Spend the late afternoon on the incredible Phillip Island watching the penguins marching from the sea back to their lairs.

And, last but not least, a visit to Australia wouldn’t be complete without touring a local winery and sipping the finest wines.

Here are some fun facts about Australia… The entire continent is located south of the equator and south of most of the countries of the world – hence its nickname “Down Under.” Australia was the home of the native Aborigines for at least 50,000 years before being settled as a penal colony by the British. It later became a welcoming home for many immigrants, initially Europeans and then migrants from around the world.

Yet, even today, there are no more than 26 million inhabitants living on this vast continent, most of them in its coastal regions, while its center is largely void of people. Australia's name comes from the ancient Latin term, "Terra Australis Incognita," which means "the unknown southern land,” and implies its very late discovery. Captain Cook arrived here in 1770, declaring it as a British colony – though, in truth, he was preceded by Dutch and British sailors. In 1901, Australia transitioned from a British colony to an independent country, though it does maintain a symbolic connection with the British Crown.

And now? Time to start planning your trip to this fascinating continent.

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All Destinations , Australasia , Australia , Road Trip Itineraries

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!

Pin Me if You’re Happy!

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

Comments are closed.

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25 BEST Australia Travel Apps (RoadTrips, Camping, Drinks etc!)

All hail the interweb! Although there certainly are good points and bad points when it comes to an unlimited flow of information, it’s safe to say that in the travel space, travel planning has never been easier. And when it comes to Australia, with its size and wealth of things to see, do and experience in every corner, downloading a set of helpful travel apps is an absolute must.

But in a jam-packed mobile app store and multiple apps seemingly doing the same thing, it can be tough to know where to start and what you really need. And that’s where we come in. We’ve collected our favourite Australian travel apps that we recommend any visitor to Australia (and even Aussies themselves!) download that help make travel planning in Oz a breeze.

Whether you are road tripping, camping, or flying, there are apps to help you find the best deals, routes and fares. While in a destination there are apps for finding your nearest happy hour for discount food and drink, find your zen on the nation’s beaches or stargaze with an astronomy app (and actually know what you are looking at!). And when it comes to managing your money on your travels, we’ve got you covered with budgeting, spending trackers, and receipt logging apps.

The possibilities are endless so to help you narrow down exactly what you need, we’ve grouped them into sections such as must-have Australian Apps, the best apps for an Australian road trip, helpful travel apps for managing your money and, finally, generally the best travel apps that can be used and utilized in any country. And best of all – most of these are also the best free travel apps on the market. So scroll down and start downloading!

Table of Contents

• 1.1 The Happiest Hour
• 1.2 Wikicamps Australia
• 1.3 Beachsafe
• 1.4 The Outbound Collective
• 1.5 Dawn Patrol
• 1.6 Netflix
• 1.7 AllTrails
• 1.8 Free Wifi Finder
• 1.10 StarTracker
• 2.1 RoadTrippers
• 2.2 Spotify
• 2.5 Fuel Map Australia
• 2.6 Toilet Finder
• 3.1 Trail Wallet (IOS) or Travel Spend (IOS/Android)
• 3.2 XE Currency Converter
• 4.1 Whatsapp / Facebook Messenger
• 4.2 TripIt: Travel Planner
• 4.3 Uber / Ola
• 4.4 Google Translate
• 4.5 Packpoint
• 4.6 Sky Scanner
• 4.7 Travello

Must-Have Australia Travel Apps (Camping, Happy Hour, Flights etc)

The happiest hour.

The app also helps users track down happy hour-related food deals, from pizza and pasta to dumplings and almost everything in between. Obviously, the bigger (and busier) the Australian city, the more options the app will display.

Available on both Google Play for Android devices and the App Store for iPhones .

Wikicamps Australia

Kept up to date by users as they travel, it is an ever-growing resource packed with invaluable information – making it one of the Top Travel Apps in Australia. And with the offline map function, it’s the perfect app for finding all things camping (and road trip) related. Easily one of the most useful travel apps in Australia. Download it now (on Android or iPhone ) and start planning your next Aussie adventure.

What you may not realise is that not Australian beaches are suitable for swimming and that’s where Beachsafe comes in. Brought to you by the Australian Surf Life Saving Association, you can search every beach for weather, hazards and water. Although they won’t always have information on dangerous rips, and so we recommend you swim at patrolled beaches between the distinctive red and yellow flags at all times.

Available in the Play Store & App Store – it is a must-have app for travelling in Australia.

The Outbound Collective

It’s the perfect inspirational app for exploring nature near to you when you’re not sure what you want to do or have landed in a new destination and are feeling a little uninspired. It’s one of the best free travel apps for exploring Australia and is available on iPhone and Android . (There’s also a tours and lodging tab – but we recommend sticking with just the local adventures. There are better apps for hotels & tours!)

Dawn Patrol

While the Dawn Patrol app (linked to your Apple Watch) is really not necessary when you’re trying to catch your first wave, for those who are at home on a board, it can be a great way to track each session in the water and records details about the break, how many waves you catch, how far you travel etc.

Although it’s not free, for a small monthly subscription you can have a range of TV and movies at your fingertips. Download a selection of movies and TV before you head off on your next adventure (using your home internet, rather than data!) – and stay entertained even when the Wifi is weak. (Available on both iPhone & Android)

AllTrails have over 200,000 curated trail maps around the world – with over 7000 of them available for Australia.

Get inspired by local walking and biking trails and nature opportunities near you, and read user reviews and tips to find out what to know before you set off. The maps can be downloaded and used to track your adventures in real-time (if you don’t mind paying the annual fee), or can be used for free via mobile data while you’re out and about. You can even use the GPS on your phone to track your trails – which may help you retrace your steps if you get lost!

Free Wifi Finder

You can also use the tracking functions to monitor proposed routes and the app will send you a notification when it’s the perfect time to grab a bargain.

StarTracker

If you’re heading out into the country, the outback or just one of our incredible national parks, the StarTracker app is great fun for exploring the stars at night. Simply open the app, point your phone’s camera to the sky, and the app will tell you what you are looking at. Stars, planets, or constellations – it’s hours of fun.

(You can also point the phone at the ground and see what stars are on the other side of the world!) Get the App in the Playstore or AppStore .

Top Travel Apps for an Australian Road Trip

Roadtrippers.

Plan your route, find attractions along the way, estimate driving times – RoadTrippers is a favourite road trip travel app has been the go-to app across the globe for putting together itineraries for years. Is invaluable when it comes to navigating the outback on our Aussie roads. Download the app here .

The real-time reporting of traffic accidents or simply, more traffic than normal, means the app gives you the quickest route, even after you have selected your destination. And if you have a trip scheduled for the next day, the app will alert you if there has been an unusual incident on your route and if you need to leave earlier.

The app also has a rideshare/carpool function, so even if you are not driving yourself, you can use the app to find others heading your way and share the fuel costs; or offer up a spare seat if you have one. You can download the app on iOS and Android here .

Pus, one of my favourite features – lots of viewpoints and points of interest built into the app that you can preview to decide if you want to stop along your way.

It’s one of the best free travel apps on the list. Download it on Google Play or the App Store .

Fuel Map Australia

Toilet Finder

Free Travel Apps for Managing Your Money On the Road

Trail wallet (ios) or travel spend (ios/android).

For those wanting something just for receipts, we recommend Smart Receipts. This is particularly good for grouping expenses into lists that work for you (destination, category etc)

Travel Spend is similar to Trail Wallet in terms of spending tracking, adding expenses on the go and keeping track of your budget – and is the best alternative for those who are Android devotees.

XE Currency Converter

The exchange rates are live where you are connected to the internet – and where you are not, it uses the rate saved from the last time you opened the app. (Our top tip if you are relying on hotel wifi – open the app just before you leave your hotel for the day so your app exchange rates are never more than a few hours old.)

The XE Currency App also offers international money transfers, however for the best rates we recommend using Wise – whom you can also get a travel credit card for which lets you hold multiple currencies. This allows you to spend in whichever currency you like, and convert cash at the best rate at any given time.

The Best Travel Apps for Australia (and beyond!)

Whatsapp / facebook messenger.

TripIt: Travel Planner

The app will group together and organise activities and tickets that fall within the date ranges of any return flights, and will track your travels as time passes. The app can also pull tickets out and log them automatically from your email when you link it to the app, and you can manually add them if it misses any.

For busy travel periods, this app is invaluable and as all your trips are stored in the app, can help you keep track of all your past adventures too.

Wherever you are in Australia, it is of vital importance that everyone has the opportunity to get home safely, and rideshare apps such as Uber and Ola offer the ability for guests to track their drivers, their route and even share their current location with others.

We recommend having both downloaded and checking your fare on each before making a booking. Depending on surge charging at any given time, one app may be significantly cheaper than the other. (I also love that your Ola account earns you Velocity frequent flyer points, but I’m just a big points geek! )

Google Translate

Sky Scanner

That’s a wrap, we hope our Australia travel guide to the best Australian Apps for Travel has shown you exactly what mobile apps will help when it comes to exploring Australia. And If you have planned your trip with an Australian travel app that isn’t on the list, be sure to let us know in the comments so we can add it!

Oh, if you liked this post please share on Facebook, tweet or pin – I’d really appreciate it! Click the P in the share bar for the full-size image!

READY MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE RECENT POSTS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, TRAVEL TIPS, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES, TRAVEL GEAR GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING PLACES AROUND AUSTRALIA:

• Test Your Aussie Knowledge: The Big Australia Trivia Quiz + Aussie Slang Dictionary + Australia Facts
• South Australia: Adelaide Travel Guide (Perfect for First Time Visitors)
• Australian Capital Territory: Top Things to do in the ACT
• Queensland: QLD Bucket List (inc. the some of the best spots on the East Coast Australia – think Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach, and the Great Barrier Reef) + 50 Top Things to do in Outback Queensland
• New South Wales: Top Things to do in Sydney, Best Places to visit in NSW (including the Opera House, Blue Mountains National Park)
• Victoria: The Ultimate Victoria Bucketlist (inc. the Great Ocean Road ), Melbourne Travel Guide (Perfect for First Timers) + Free Things to do in Melbourne , Melbourne Weekend Getaways & Best Time to Visit Melbourne (Month by Month Guide)
• General Australia Inspiration: 25 Best Places to Visit in Australia (inc. Alice Springs in the NT!)
• For International travel guides (North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa etc) head on over to MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld.com

Hi There! Thanks for reading our guide to 25 BEST Australia Travel Apps / Generally The Best Travel Apps for Australia (and Beyond)!   I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here .

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• Best Road Trips in Australia for Campervans

Australia Road Trip Planner

18 of the best road trips in australia.

Australia Road Trip Map : Click on the route for a link to the itinerary, or browse below.

East Coast Australia Road Trips

These east coast Australia road trips combine two or more of the above road trips. Itineraries range from 1 to 7 weeks.

Cairns to Airlie Beach Drive 348 km | 7 hrs drive  | 1 - 2 weeks 4 days for the road trip plus 10 days to explore the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree, Port Douglas, Undara Lava Tubes and the Atherton Tablelands. 

Brisbane to Cairns Drive 2, 177 km | 26 hrs drive | 3 - 4 weeks Explore the tropical northern stretch of the East Coast. 11 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays, Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree and Port Douglas. 

Melbourne to Brisbane Drive 2,930 km | 54 hrs drive | 5 weeks 28 days for the road trip, plus 6 days to explore Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 

Sydney to Cairns Drive 3,487 km | 55 hrs drive  | 5 weeks Nearly all of the east coast. 26 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns. 

Melbourne to Cairns Drive 4,787 km | 55 hrs drive | 6 - 7 weeks Explore the entire East Coast of Australia from end to end. 30 - 40 days for the road trip, plus 10 days to explore Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Whitsunday and Cairns.

Road Trip Around Australia

We have three key routes for a road trip around Australia. 

• The first route is a simple circumnavigation of the continent, but this misses the important central desert region with Uluru, the Olgas and Coober Pedy. 
• The second route includes central Australia and can either start in Cairns and end in Adelaide, or start in Adelaide and end in Cairns. 
• The third route builds upon the second route by looping in Broken Hill, Mungo National Park and rural New South Wales. Its start and end points are Cairns and Sydney.

Road Trips by State

• NEW SOUTH WALES
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• NORTHERN TERRITORY

Driving in Australia

Australia is larger than you might think - as large as the USA without Alaska and three quarters the size of Europe. It is also extremely diverse with everything from snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, the outback desert and rolling green pastures. If you jet set from city to city, you'll miss all this.

The best (and cheapest) way to experience Australia is to hire a campervan and take a road trip. That way you have the freedom to can set your own itinerary, be spontaneous, take the road less travelled, and stop where you want for as long as you want.

With a kitchen in the back seat, you can pull into a stunning location, make lunch and soak in the views. It's the most convenient, affordable and memorable way to dine. And at the end of an adventure-filled day, your home is where ever you park it. 

You will soon discover the camaraderie of the campervan community - kindred spirits who like to get off the beaten path, who appreciate the beauty of Australia, and are eager to share a few tips and their favorite camping locations with you. As Edith Wharton once said  "One of the great things about travel is you discover how many good, kind people there are."

In this Road Trip Planner we detail some of the best road trips in Australia to help you plan your campervan self-drive itinerary.

• Cairns day trips
• Atherton Tablelands & Wooroonooran National Park
• Kuranda and Barron Falls
• Cairns to Hinchinbrook Is.
• Cairns to Cooktown
• Cairns to Townsville  
• Townsville day trips
• Townsville to Cairns
• Townsville to Airlie Beach
• Queensland Outback  (Townsville - Cunnamulla - Brisbane)
• Airlie Beach to Townsville  (and Cairns)
• Airlie Beach to Brisbane  (and Gold Coast)
• Brisbane to Gold Coast
• Brisbane to Airlie Beach
• Gold Coast to Sydney
• Gold Coast day trips
• Brisbane day trips

New South Wales

• Sydney's National Parks
• Sydney's Top Walks
• Hunter Valley wine region
• Central Coast
• Port Stephens
• Blue Mountains
• South Coast
• Southern Highlands
• The Snowy Mountains
• Sydney - Melbourne Coast
• Sydney - Canberra - Melbourne
• Sydney - Gold Coast
• Broken Hill
• Canberra 
• Grampians | Murray River
• Great Ocean Road
• Mornington Pensinsula
• Phillip Island
• Wilsons Promontory
• Victorian Alps | High Plains
• Yarra Valley | Dandenongs
• Melbourne - Sydney coast
• Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney
• Melbourne - Adelaide

South Australia

• Barossa Valley wines
• Murray River
• Kangaroo Island
• Mt. Gambier
• Coonawarra wine & Naracoorte Caves
• Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
• Adelaide Hills Activities 
• Fleurieu Peninsula & Coorong
• Adelaide to Melbourne
• Outback: Adelaide to Sydney
• Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip
• Adelaide to Perth Road Trip
• Coober Pedy
• Eyre Peninsula

Western Australia

• 3 days in Perth - things to do
• The Perfect WA Roadtrip (South of Perth)
• Yanchep National Park
• Pinnacles Desert
• Bunbury and Busselton
• Margaret River
• Pemberton Forests
• The Kimberley - Broome to Darwin in 6 days
• Broome to Perth in 19 days
• Perth to Adelaide in 16 days

Northern Territory

• Litchfield National Park
• The Pilbara
• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)
• Mataranka Hot Springs
• Alice Springs
• Uluru and the Olgas
• Macdonnell Ranges

Other Blogs & Relevant Information

• Driving Distances and Petrol Prices
• Oz Parks Australia's Newest National Caravan & Tourist Park Chain
• Top Islands to visit in Australia
• Top Australian cultural experiences
• Top Australian animal experiences
• 7 reasons why Cairns is the adventure capital of Australia
• 10 movie locations to visit in Australia

Itineraries

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Campervan hire depots, airlie beach.

Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

20 Noble Avenue, North Gate, Queensland 4013 Phone: 1800 216 223

440 Sheridan Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870 Phone: 1800 216 223

273 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, Victoria 3058 Phone: 1800 216 223

23-25 Erskine Rd, Caringbah, Sydney, NSW 2229 Phone: 1800 216 223

Do you have any questions or need additional information?

Top 10 Road Trip Apps for your next adventure

Written By Bastian Graf

Generation X and those even older remember a time when a traveller had to rely on an agent, their own research, or blind luck to find the route best travelled, book a hotel or flight, or find the best food and other amenities.

Now, no one has to spend hours researching or trust that the road map will guide you the right way. The best travel information rests at your fingertips, no further than your mobile phone. An explosion of road trip apps have emerged to try to take the guesswork out of planning your adventure.

Here are our picks for the best road trip apps…

Best Cheap Flight App: Hopper

Many are after the best deals on flights or lodging on their own timetable. Others prefer to find the best deal possible at any given time and plan their trip around it. For those in the latter category, Hopper can provide outstanding savings opportunities through its travel app.

Hopper, can tell you how to find the best deals, it “predicts prices and helps you book your flights and hotels at the right time, saving you up to 40%”. The travel app will also tell you when the best deals will take place within the next year. On top of the potential savings, the service comes at absolutely no cost.

Best Trip Planning App: Australian Tourism 360

Are you planning a trip around Australia? This is more than a simple trip planner app. The official tourism office of Australia teamed up with Google Cardboard to provide the ultimate virtual travel app experience.

Using Google Cardboard, along with a wide variety of free 360 degree videos , you can preview your trip, gauge the potential experience, and gain a better idea of which grand adventure you wish to experience. You can “see for yourself what Australia feels like in a series of immersive 360° videos”.

Of course, nothing from Google Cardboard or an app can replace the actual sensations of the sun on your face and the real-life experience of Australia’s amazing sights. This app, however, can help you prioritise and plan your next vacation almost anywhere in the country. This app provides both a unique and advanced way to start planning the perfect road trip.

Best Travel Safety App: Beachsafe

Well if you’re travelling to Australia you are going to need to know where the best beaches are, right? Beachsafe was developed by Surf Life Saving Australia, the app helps you “find your nearest beaches in seconds”. You can also access the latest updates about every Aussie beach, as it serves real-time information. From facilities, weather warnings, swell and tide, surf conditions and more.

Available to download on Apple and Android, is an all-encompassing beach and water safety app. This app gives you everything you need to know about our Aussie beaches.

Best Tourist App: The Outbound

(Source: www.theoutbound.com)

The Outbound allows you to final local adventures, and who wouldn’t want to know them? This app does support wherever you are in the world, but it has recently added many adventures in Australia, including hiking to Wentworth Falls, hiking the Bondi to Coogee Beach coastal walk, and a Climb Mt. Gower On Lord Howe Island adventure.

The app really does spread the excitement of travel, “whether just down the street or across the globe, by inspiring people to discover, explore, and share their favorite activities and local playgrounds”.

Best Happy Hour App: The Happiest Hour

Do you enjoy a tipple while on holiday? This app will help you grab a drink wherever you may be in Australia! Experience the Australian bar scene and local wines, there are also many small-scale Aussie beer & cider produces listed on the app. Now let’s not forget the happy hour specials listed as well.

Best Wifi App: Free Wifi Finder

Free WiFi Finder is exactly what it says it is…a Wi-Fi finder! Connect wherever you are, at any time or any day, and avoid those overseas roaming fees. This app will also guide you to the free Wi-Fi and map out the route for you.

Although this isn’t a trip app as such, it will still enable your adventure, and allow you to access all of those other apps that will keep you on the road. A simple app with a massive benefit for anyone travelling and who needs internet.

Best Hiking App: Nature Near Me

A great Australian app for hiking and bushwalking. From mountains to bush and beach, Nature Near Me will give you the trek most travelled, updates on weather and preparation on hiking trails around New South Wales. All other states also have their own dedicated apps, so make sure you check all of them out.

Best Translation App: Google Translate

At a point in the not so distant past, quick electronic translations were the stuff of science fiction. While an automatic voice translator still lies beyond the reach of most people, Google Translate can instantly take the text of almost any major language and provide the English translation.

This app can prove invaluable when running into street signs, instructions, or even foreign language restaurant menus. It certainly cannot serve as a substitute for a solid knowledge of the language, nor can it pick up on subtleties of slang or sarcasm, but it can be useful when you need simple, literal translations of important information.

Best Fuel App: The Fuel Map Australia

(Source: wwwfuelmap.com.au)

The Fuel Map Australia app will help you find a fuel station nearby, which everyone needs of course! The app will give you current fuel prices, which enables you to find the cheapest too. This travel fuel app will help you budget on where and when to fill up.

Best Campervan Travel App: CamperMate

Taking to the road and setting out on an adventure is all about exploring what’s on offer both at and on the way to your destination, and CamperMate is the ideal app for this. With a bank of thousands of exciting activities to discover, including top tourist attractions, rainy day recommendations, and tours, this clever little app will really help you make the most of your road trip.

You’re even able to search by region and book whatever activities you want to do directly through the app, often at a discounted rate. It also features reviews from its 150,000 users, including photographs, so you’ll know the best-rated places to go and where you should avoid.

At each point of your journey, CamperMate has your back with directions, too. Offline maps and travel information will ensure you’re able to reach your accommodation with no issues, and it will also recommend nearby campsites when you’re ready to settle down for the night

That’s it, our best road trip app picks! We hope these apps help you along your adventure and make your journey a lot easier and safer.

For more road trips, adventures, happy customer stories and more, come and explore our YouTube Channel!

Don’t forget to check out our latest deals & specials on campervan hire in Australia .

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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For the best australian road trips and driving holidays, road trips in queensland.

Discover road trips in Queensland: tropical rainforest, stretching from the Bunya Mountains in the south to Baron Gorge in the North. Swim in natural rockpools at Finch Hatton Gorge or snorkel peacefully with fish and coral in the Great Barrier Reef. Relax on a tropical beach: perhaps Mission Beach or Magnetic Island. Remember the sunscreen!

Road Trips in Victoria

Find the best road trips from Melbourne: Venture along the scenic coastline known as the Great Ocean Road. Explore seaside towns before venturing inland to the Grampians or Snowy Mountains. Experience a close encounter with Fairy Penguins on Philip Island, and get close to the most southern point of Australia at Wilson's Promontory National Park.

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Travel Northern Territory: Experience the true Red Centre. Drive through the open savannah to the rolling formations of Devil's Marbles, be wowed by the sheer cliffs of Kings Canyon, and experience Australia's icon Uluru. To the north, behold gorges, warm springs, and waterfalls. Feel a connection to the ancient landscape entwined with Aboriginal culture.

Road Trips in New South Wales

Plan a trip through NSW, with these detailed road trip itineraries. From the vibrant city of Canberra to Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Follow windy roads through tall eucalypt forests and stop over in historic towns. Take in the views from one of many lookouts over the Blue Mountains, or enter into a cave tour. Fall in love with the deep blue ocean and beaches of Eden, Jervis Bay in the south, and Hat Head and Byron Bay in the north...

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Plan a South Australia road trip to discover another piece of Australia. Leave Adelaide City behind for a Limestone Coast adventure. Relax watching the sunset over Coffin Bay; how about some Coffin Bay Oysters matched with a local South Australian wine? Uncover the natural beauty of the Gawler Ranges and Flinders Ranges. Travel beyond the vast open desert and visit inland lakes, springs, and historic Ghan railway ruins via the Oodnadatta Track to Coober Pedy... 

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Discover self-drive road trips from Perth. These journeys display picture-perfect boulder-lined bays or panoramic vistas from WA's highest peak at Stirling Range. To the north, behold the unique rock formations of the Cervantes and snorkel Coral Bay or feed Dolphins in Denham. Cool off in waterfalls and rock pools at Karijini National Park, surrounded by the rugged red Pilbara region.

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Explore Road Trips Australia to discover a wide range of road trip planners and driving holiday itineraries throughout Australia. This content is designed to help you plan the perfect road trip adventure. Whether you’re a family looking to escape on school holidays, a working couple with limited time, empty nesters seeking a group adventure, or an overseas visitor trying to figure out where to start, we’ve got you covered. With our comprehensive guides, travel planning has never been easier.

Why Have a Planned Road Trip Itinerary?

• Having a planned road trip allows you to incorporate and discover new locations and places of interest into your trip.
• To use your allocated time away effectively.   
• Not left guessing where to go next.
• Avoid disappointment if a destination is booked out.
• Family and friends know your location (for safety purposes).
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• Choose a planned road trip by Road Trips Australia. Easy Right? 
• Each road trip has a map, and here is your packing list and meal planning guide !
• Consider taking your adventure further from home with a fly-and-drive road trip. You can check out the Motorhome Republic to explore motorhome hire from your chosen capital city. 
• Want a road trip adventure but need the gear? Check out Camplify for RV (Recreational Vehicle) hire near me or our guide to camping gear .

Road Trip Planner for School Holidays Australia

Road Trips Australia has planned amazing road trip itinerary’s , perfect for a school holiday adventure! With 7 and 14-day road trips from every capital city in Australia, it is achievable to explore Australia piece by piece. So begin your quest for an exciting school holiday filled with exploration with Road Trips Australia.

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Planning your camping and travel meals ahead of time can make your outdoor adventure even more enjoyable. See our top picks for the best camping food ideas, from quick and simple meals to more gourmet options, including variations for vegan and vegetarian meals. 

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Embarking on a journey, whether a weekend getaway or a grand driving holiday adventure, requires careful planning and access to reliable information. In the digital age, travel apps have revolutionized the way we explore. Discover essential travel apps that can enhance your travel experience. 

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When camping in parts of Australia, having the right gear can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. From tents and sleeping bags to cooking equipment and lighting, explore these articles to discover the best camping gear available in Australia, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your next adventure in the great outdoors!

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Guide to the simpson desert.

Escaping to the centre of Australia may be on your bucket list! This epic trip is definitely not for the faint-hearted. But with our guide to crossing the Simpson Desert, you can be well-prepared for an unforgettable journey through Australia's Desert Parks.

Best Stops Pacific Highway

Be taken on a journey along the NSW east coast Pacific Highway. Discover BIG things, like 'the big axe' to 'the big prawn'! Visit hip seaside towns, stop to enjoy sweeping ocean views or explore rainforests and waterfalls...Ready to go?

Guide to Victoria High Country

Embark on the unforgettable road trip journey through the stunning Victoria High Country. Discover it's beauty, plan your trip, and ensure safety with this ultimate guide to the Australian Alpine country...

7 and 14-day Road Trips

7-day road trip from brisbane.

Discover the best of south-east Queensland on a 7-day road trip escape from Brisbane. Explore beaches, wine regions, charming towns and waterfalls...

South Australia in 7-days

Discover the ultimate 7-day road trip itinerary from Adelaide through South Australia. Follow our guide to an unforgettable adventure that begins here!

14-day Tasmania Road Trip

Embark on a captivating Tasmania road trip, exploring stunning landscapes and cultural treasures. Discover the best of Tasmania on this unforgettable journey...

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