Road Trips in Australia

One of the best highlights in itself is Sydney offering attractions galore. While in the city, be sure to check out such places as the famous Sydney Opera House, Sydney Tower, Circular Quay, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Sydney Markets. There’s something for every traveller in Sydney.

If you are a fan of natural jewels, Coastal Queensland will be a great destination for you. Brisbane is a laid-back city with plenty of lively entertainment venues. You can also admire the majestic Glass House Mountains offering a number of outdoor activity options. One of the most fashionable places to be at in Queensland is Noosa – a paradise for surfers.

The Northern Territory is also a true treasure trove of attractions. Visit Darwin to admire its interesting architecture, take a hiking trip around the Litchfield National Park, and admire wildlife in the Kakadu National Park. You can also consider a visit in Alice Springs, Katherine with its stunning gorge complex, and near the towering rock of Uluru.

Those who are into more entertainment in Australian cities can travel to Perth. It is characterised by a leisure-oriented ambiance and plenty of great restaurants. Fremantle will be perfect for those who enjoy laid-back atmosphere and great cultural spots. Nearby, you’ll also find such interesting places to visit as Pemberton, Albany, Esperance, and Broome.

Recommended Road Trips in Australia

• The Great Ocean Road: This iconic coastal drive is one of Australia’s most popular road trips, stretching for 243 kilometers along the south-eastern coast of Australia. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and beaches, as well as the opportunity to stop at various coastal towns and attractions. Some of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road include the Twelve Apostles rock formations, the historic town of Lorne, and the surf town of Torquay.

• The Savannah Way: This epic road trip takes you from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia, traversing a vast and diverse landscape of tropical rainforests, rugged deserts, and pristine beaches. The Savannah Way is a true adventure, offering a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Australian Outback and visit remote communities along the way. Some of the key stops on this road trip include the Undara Lava Tubes, the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the Bungle Bungle Range.

• The Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive: This scenic drive takes you from Australia’s largest city, Sydney, to its cultural capital, Melbourne, along the stunning coastline of New South Wales and Victoria. The journey takes you past a range of beaches, national parks, and coastal towns, offering the opportunity to swim, surf, hike, and explore along the way. Some of the highlights of this road trip include the Royal National Park, the seaside town of Batemans Bay, and the vibrant city of Wollongong.

Australia follows left-hand traffic which might cause a problem for European travellers as well as rookie drivers. However, there exist many traffic regulations which are similar to those followed around the world.

The minimum driving age is 18; however, the minimum driving age if you want to rent a vehicle is from 21 to 25. Unfortunately, some car rental companies tend to apply extra charges in case of young drivers.

Interestingly, you are allowed to use speed camera detection equipment and no fees or penalties will be applied if police officers spot such a device in your car.

The documents that you should carry while travelling around Australia are your driver’s licence, certificate of insurance, vehicle registration document, and vehicle technical inspection certificate.

If you are caught without your seatbelts on, you’ll have to face high penalties. Police officers can apply fines that are as high as A$ 363. Australia is also extremely strict when it comes to drinking and driving. The blood alcohol level cannot exceed 50 mg per 100 ml of blood. Thus, it’s better to avoid drinking before your trip as even a small amount can take you way beyond the limit. Drivers who are an inexperienced can’t have any alcohol in their bloodstream. It is also illegal to drive and use a mobile phone so equip yourself with a hands-free set.

All motorists must follow speed limits that are indicated on road signs. Outside built-up areas, you can drive at a speed of 100-130 km/h. When it comes to built-up areas, the speed limit is 50 km/h. Your speed should be also dependent on the weather conditions. Some roads can be located in a limited speed zone so you need to adjust your driving to the limits indicated for a given road section.

In Australia, you’ll encounter a number of speed cameras, both fixed and mobile. For speeding, there’s great likelihood that you’ll receive an on the spot fine. Speeding tickets amount to from A$174 to A$1036, depending on your speed. There’s also a possibility that you might receive additional penalty points.

When taking a road trip in Australia, there are several factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:

• Plan ahead: Plan your route, book your accommodation, and research the places you want to visit to make the most of your road trip.

• Check your vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped for long-distance travel, including a spare tire, jack, and basic tools.

• Drive safely: Observe the speed limits, take regular breaks, and be aware of the road conditions and weather, especially in remote areas.

• Respect the wildlife: Australia is home to a unique range of wildlife, so take care when driving, especially at night, to avoid hitting animals on the road.

• Be prepared for emergencies: Pack a first-aid kit, water, and food, and make sure you have a charged mobile phone and a satellite phone in remote areas.

• Respect the environment: Take care of the environment by following Leave No Trace principles and disposing of waste appropriately.

• Be mindful of the rules: Be aware of the road rules and traffic laws, especially in different states and territories, and respect the rights of other road users.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Australia, and make the most of your adventure on the open road.

The best time of year for taking a road trip in Australia depends on where you want to go and what type of weather you prefer. Here are a few general guidelines:

• Summer (December to February): This is the warmest time of year in most parts of Australia, making it ideal for beach and coastal road trips. However, it can also be very hot in some areas, especially in the interior, and bushfires are a risk during this time.

• Spring (September to November): This is a great time for road trips in Australia, with mild temperatures, wildflowers in bloom, and lower humidity in many areas.

• Autumn (March to May): This is also a good time for road trips, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds in many tourist destinations.

• Winter (June to August): Winter can be a great time for road trips in northern and southern Australia, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. However, it can also be very cold and wet in some areas, especially in the mountains.

Regardless of the time of year, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on your road trip. Additionally, always be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in remote areas.

Australia is a beautiful and vast country with plenty of sights to see and experiences to enjoy on a road trip. The cost of a road trip in Australia can vary depending on the season, the type of accommodation, and the activities you choose to do. However, as a general rule, the cost of a road trip in Australia can be higher than in some other countries due to the country's remote location and the relatively high cost of living.

To give you an idea of costs, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $60-$100 per day on a road trip in Australia. This will cover food, gas, and basic accommodation such as camping or staying in hostels. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $150-$200 per day, which will give you more comfortable accommodation and access to more activities. Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of $400 per day, which will give you access to high-end accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive experiences.

In terms of renting a car, the cost will depend on the type of car you choose, the duration of your trip, and the rental company you use. Generally speaking, a standard car rental in Australia can cost between $30-$60 per day. However, for larger vehicles such as campervans or motorhomes, the cost can be significantly higher.

It's worth noting that the cost of gas in Australia can also be quite high, with prices ranging from $1.20-$2.00 per liter. This means that fuel costs can add up quickly, especially if you are covering long distances on your road trip.

To save on costs, it's a good idea to plan ahead and research budget-friendly accommodation options such as camping grounds and hostels. You can also save on food costs by cooking your meals instead of eating out. Another way to save money is to plan your road trip during the shoulder season (spring and autumn) when prices are generally lower.

Overall, a road trip in Australia can be an unforgettable experience, but it's important to budget carefully and be aware of the potential costs involved. By planning ahead and being mindful of your spending, you can enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer without breaking the bank.

When packing for a road trip in Australia, it's important to consider the weather and terrain you'll be encountering. Australia is a vast country with a range of climates, so it's important to check the weather forecast for your intended route and pack accordingly.

Here are some items you might want to consider bringing:

• Sunscreen and a hat: Australia is known for its sunny weather, so it's important to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays.

• Insect repellent: If you're planning on camping or spending time in the great outdoors, insect repellent is a must.

• Comfortable clothing and shoes: Pack comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for hiking, walking, and other outdoor activities.

• A first aid kit: Accidents can happen, so it's important to have a basic first aid kit with you.

• Maps and guidebooks: Even if you have a GPS, it's always a good idea to bring maps and guidebooks to help you navigate and learn about the areas you're visiting.

• Snacks and water: It's important to stay hydrated and nourished on a road trip, so pack plenty of water and snacks.

• Phone charger and power bank: Don't forget to bring a phone charger and power bank to keep your devices charged.

• Camera: Australia is home to some of the world's most stunning landscapes and wildlife, so don't forget to bring a camera to capture your road trip memories.

• Camping gear (if applicable): If you plan on camping, be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, and any other necessary camping gear.

• Car essentials: Finally, be sure to bring any car essentials you might need, such as a spare tire, tire jack, and jumper cables.

Overall, packing for a road trip in Australia requires careful consideration of the weather, terrain, and activities you'll be encountering. With a bit of planning and preparation, you'll be ready to hit the road and enjoy all the beauty that Australia has to offer.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that are highly recommended for a road trip in Australia:

• Lonely Planet Australia: This guidebook is a classic and provides detailed information about the must-see attractions in Australia, as well as practical travel tips.

• Road Atlas Australia: This road atlas is the perfect companion for any road trip in Australia, with detailed maps of every region and city.

• Camps Australia Wide: This guidebook is essential for anyone planning on camping during their road trip in Australia. It provides information about campsites all over the country, including prices and facilities.

• Hema Maps Australia: Hema Maps produces a wide range of detailed maps of Australia, including maps that are specific to road trips and 4WD adventures.

• Explore Australia by Caravan and Motorhome: This guidebook is specifically aimed at those who are traveling by caravan or motorhome, and provides information about campsites, caravan parks, and other facilities.

• Australia Touring Atlas: This comprehensive atlas covers all of Australia, with detailed maps of every region, city, and town.

• The Big Lap: This guidebook is aimed at those who are planning on doing a big lap of Australia, and provides information about the best routes to take, as well as practical travel advice.

• National Geographic Road Atlas: This road atlas is another great option for those planning a road trip in Australia, with detailed maps and information about points of interest.

These guidebooks and maps will help you plan your road trip in Australia and ensure that you don't miss any of the amazing sights and experiences that the country has to offer.