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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Exploring Australia: Prepping for the Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Travel Australia by Car

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

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

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

Travel Australia by Van or Car

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

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

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

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

Car Camping in Australia Resources:

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

Van Travel in Australia Resources

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

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

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

A Word on Australian Visas

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

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

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

So. Many. Puns.

So. Little. Time.

1. Gibb River Road – Western Australia

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

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

2. Cairns to Cape York – Queensland

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

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

3. Darwin to Uluru – Northern Territory

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

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

4. Great Ocean Road – Victoria

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

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

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

5. The Greater Blue Mountains Drive – New South Wales

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

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

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

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

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6. The Nullarbor Plain – West Australia

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

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

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

7. Tasmania’s Heritage Trail

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

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

8. The Alpine Way – New South Wales

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

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

9. Sydney to Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are you done, Dad?  No. Two more things

One More Thing: Australia Road Trip Safety

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

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

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

Last Thing! Get Insured Before Travelling to Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aiden Freeborn

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

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

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

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

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

1) Coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @kattgao via Instagram

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @helenabradbury via Instagram

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

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

2) Ultimate Australian Outback road trip from Darwin to Adelaide

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @exploreuluru via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @nealjennings via Instagram

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

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

Photo credit: @alan.timms1 via Instagram

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

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

Photo credit: @ashhughesphotos via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @officialfleurieupeninsula via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @promotemytown via Instagram

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

Photo credit: TripAdvisor

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

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

Photo credit: @discover_mount_gambier via Instagram

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

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

Photo credit: @sarahafindlay via Instagram

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @_danieltran_ via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @traveling_yorick via Instagram

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

Photo credit: Tourism Australia

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

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

Photo credit: @fewdaysbetween via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: Maria Island Walk / Great Walks of Australia

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

Photo credit: @itsworthashot via Instagram

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

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

Photo credit: @lady_siu_mei via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @_aswewander via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @littlemusselcafe via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @balloonaloftcanberra via Instagram

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

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

Photo credit: @avenuehotelcbr via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @szjanko via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @roadtrippersaus via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @t.becs via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @manuelo.pro via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @tracks.we.travel via Instagram

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

Photo credit: @alexxsadventures via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @sand_dune_adventures via Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: @goldcoast_themeparks via Instagram

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

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

Driving tips and planning for an unforgettable road trip in Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

This post is brought to you by Tourism Australia .

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

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

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Road trip Australia: 6 of the best routes

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written by Ros Walford

updated 03.01.2019

Pack your stuff, throw it in a camper van along with a surfboard and don’t look back… This might be an old cliché but it’s one for good reason: Australia really is one of the best places on Earth for a road trip.

1. Coastal views on the Great Ocean Road

2. adventure along the way from perth to exmouth, 3. the home strait on the nullarbor plain, 4. the blissful beaches of fraser island.

• 5. Wineries along Tasmania’s Great Eastern Drive

6. Exploring Victoria along the Great Alpine Road

Whether you’re living the dream in your camper van, or making do with a less romantic form of transport, Australia’s well-kept, open roads beckon and will lead you through astonishing landscapes. There are many great road trips in Australia, but here are our favourites.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Australia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

Staggering ocean views and easy access from Melbourne make this one of Australia’s best-loved road trips. Pack an overnight bag and follow the dramatic coastline, stopping to view a series of coastal rock formations, holding their ground in the surf.

The magnificent Twelve Apostles – eight giant sea stacks – appear otherworldly at sunset, guarding the limestone cliffs. Among the other rocky highlights include London Bridge arch, the Bay of Islands and Loch Ard Gorge.

At Bells Beach, grab a wetsuit and do your best Keanu Reeves’ impression. This was the famous surf setting for his film Point Break , but it was actually filmed in California.

If you’re not a surfer you can hike in Great Otway National Park, say hello to the koalas at Kennett River or kayak out into Apollo Bay to observe a seal colony. Otherwise, take it easy at a beach restaurant in the seaside town of Lorne.

Best for: Weekenders seeking surf and sea stacks.

How long: 2 days.

Need to know: Starts at Torquay, a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne, and ends at Warrnambool.

© Photoholgic/Shutterstock

Driving north from Perth, you may expect nothing of the Outback landscape but scorched earth and straight roads all the way up the west coast. While these certainly exist, a road trip here is also punctuated with remarkable geological features, some of the best beaches in Australia and kangaroos hopping alongside your camper van.

First, a bit of fun at Lancelin where you can go sand boarding in the dunes or off-roading in a truck-sized 4x4. Then on to the Pinnacles Desert where bizarre pillars protrude from the desert like ancient monoliths.

In Kalbarri National Park, see Nature’s Window and the Z-Bend Lookout, abseil Murchison Gorge and ride on horseback around the scenic estuary at Big River Ranch.

A five-hour drive north brings you to Shark Bay, home of weird stromatolites – the oldest fossils on Earth – and the brilliant-white Shell Beach. Stop at Monkey Mia to meet the dolphins before heading on to Coral Bay, where another pristine white beach greets you. From here you can wade out 50m to the Ningaloo Reef – the second-largest reef in Australia – to snorkel with dazzling fish, turtles, reef sharks and whale sharks.

Best for: Desert adventurers.

How long: 5 days.

Need to know: To extend the trip, keep going all the way to Broome, via Karijini National Park.

© Cloudsrest Images/Shutterstock

The Nullabor is not for the faint-hearted. The mesmerising Eyre Highway runs through a vast, treeless plain, from Port Augusta in South Australia to Norseman in Western Australia .

With an almost 150km stretch that’s the world’s longest straight road, it’s no surprise that it’s known as “Nullaboring”. But many travellers love it for the beauty of the desert and the on-the-road camaraderie. There’s a strong sense of community at the roadhouses, which appear roughly every 200km – with nothing in between.

Venture away from the main road to see some of South Australia’s geological highlights, including Pildappa Rock – a 100m-long wave of red sandstone – or the peculiar rocks at Ucontitchie Hill and Murphy's Hay Stacks.

From Denial Bay, the Eyre Highway clings to the coast all the way to Western Australia. At the Head of Bight, you’ve a good chance of spotting Southern Right Whales between June and October. Then there are the empty beaches, towering cliffs, the magnificent blow-holes – and the oddities... Eucla features the ghostly remains of a telegraph station protruding from the encroaching dunes, while Balladonia (population: 9) commemorates the spot where the Skylab space station fell to Earth in 1979.

Best for: Adventurers up for trying anything, loners and Nullarbor addicts.

How long: 7–10 days.

Need to know: Be prepared with a serviced car, and enough food and water to last between roadhouses. Daytime temperatures can reach 50°C and nights can be freezing. Be careful of wildlife and passing road-trains.

Animal warning signs along the Nullarbor Plain © UnkbownLatitude Images/Shutterstock

If there’s one side trip on the east coast you mustn’t miss, it’s Fraser Island , a 123-km World-Heritage-listed sand island. Here, off-roaders may roam but the dingo is king.

The beach that runs the full length of the island functions as the main highway and an airstrip for small planes, so keep an eye on the air too while you bomb along the strand. Halfway down the beach, you can’t fail to notice the eerie remains of the shipwrecked SS Maheno appearing silhouetted against the raging surf.

Take a side road into the interior and suddenly you’re in another world – specifically, you’re in a subtropical rainforest growing on 200m-high sand dunes. Stop for a swim in the sparklingly clear Lake McKenzie, one of forty freshwater lakes perched high on the dunes. It’s like nowhere else on Earth.

You can pitch your tent at any of the 35 designated grounds – just you, the campfire, the rumble of surf and the sense of beady canine eyes watching from the darkness.

Best for: Beach bums who tidy up after themselves.

Need to know: Arrange your trip at Hervey Bay, where you can hire 4X4 and buy vehicle access permits.

Related articles from the blog

5. Wineries along Tasmania ’s Great Eastern Drive

Drive northeast from the capital Hobart to start the Great Eastern Drive at Orford. You can catch a ferry from Triabunna to Maria Island National Park and spend the day hiking, wildlife watching and visiting the World-Heritage-listed Darlington Probation Station, a kind of reform school for convicts in the nineteenth century.

Back on the coast road, the views over Great Oyster Bay are overwhelming. Recover in Swansea with a plate of seafood washed down with a glass of wine from the East Coast Wine Trail .

Don’t drink it all at once; you’ll be passing the vineyards on the next leg to the Freycinet Peninsula. This is one of Australia’s top beauty spots, not least Wineglass Bay, a perfect curve of sand around an azure bay, best seen from a lookout after a steep hike.

They say the devil is in the detail, but here it’s actually in Bicheno. If Tasmanian devils are on your must-see list, then plan a visit to the Natureworld Wildlife Sanctuary.

From Bicheno, the Surf Coast leads you to Scamander, beyond which lie Binalong Bay and the heavenly Bay of Fires . Despite the rusty orange glow from the lichen-coated boulders, there’s not a devil in sight on these pristine beaches.

Best for: Hikers who enjoy devilishly good scenery.

How long: 3 days.

Need to know: You can drive the whole route in a day, but you’ll want to take a few days. The Great Eastern Drive can easily be incorporated into a loop around the whole island state.

Wineglass Bay Freycinet, Tasmania @ Shutterstock

This mountain road crosses one of Australia’s main ski regions and some of the highest altitudes in the country, which just scrape above 2000m – so don’t expect anything too extreme.

Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful drive through a gentle region, a world away from Victoria’s lawless past. From Wangarratta, the road passes vineyards and farmland as far as the pretty town of Bright.

But take a short detour and you’ll reach Beechworth and Glenrowan, land of the nineteenth-century outlaw Ned Kelly, where you can learn about the life of this national folk hero.

Back on the Great Alpine Road, continue to Mount Buffalo National Park and climb its granite tors or explore on horseback, like Ned himself would have done. As you cross the Ovens River Valley, snowy peaks come into view.

Beyond Harrietville, the road gets tougher, as it winds steeply up through snow gum forests to Mount Hotham, Victoria's highest alpine resort. This is a starker landscape with deep valleys and panoramas across the Australian Alps. It’s well worth hiking the Razorback Trail to the summit of Mount Feathertop, Victoria’s second-highest mountain.

After this, the road descends to Dinner Plain and on to historic Omeo, a former gold-mining town. Then down through forests at Tambo to Metung, the Gippsland lakes and the ocean beyond.

Best for: Mountain-lovers, who don’t mind that Australia’s alps are somewhat vertically-challenged.

How long: 1 day.

Need to know: If you drive from Melbourne, take the M31 to Wangaratta, and on the coastal journey back, stop at Wilson’s Promontory and Phillip Island.

View of the coastline at Nobbies Centre in Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia © Javen/Shutterstock

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Unforgettable road trips on Australia’s East Coast

Sep 24, 2020 • 7 min read

Hop in your car for a truly epic road trip on Australia's East Coast © Photo by Raimund Linke / Getty Images

Australia ’s East Coast offers plenty to get excited about for road-tripping explorers. Along sun-bleached blacktop, you’ll find picture-perfect beaches, hip cities, lush rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef and abundant native wildlife. Driving routes can meet any interest and range from epic long-haul adventures to pinpoint itineraries of must-do experiences. So pack your surfboard, your hiking boots and your appetite and hit the East Coast road.

The Great Barrier Reef Drive – Cairns to Cape Tribulation (1 week)

By embarking on this trip, you’ll journey up the coast in far-north Queensland, passing classic old towns and luxe resort hubs with eye-popping Great Barrier Reef views en route. Starting ebullient Cairns , a snorkelling or dive trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a must. After that, pinball between the city’s botanic gardens, hip restaurants and buzzy bars.

Next up, head inland via gondola cableway or scenic railway to Kuranda for rainforest walks and the storied markets (try some macadamia nuts!). Don’t miss detours to picturesque Millaa Millaa Falls and a rainforest hike in scenic Wooroonooran National Park.

On Cairns’ northern beaches, check yourself into a plush Palm Cove resort, then pull off the road for a photo-op at Rex Lookout above Wangetti Beach further north. Port Douglas in next – an up-tempo holiday hub with fab eateries, bars and further reef-trip diversions.

At Mossman Gorge , lush (and Unesco World Heritage-listed) rainforest enshrouds the photogenic Mossman River: take a guided walk and cool off in a waterhole. At Daintree River, book yourself onto a crocodile-spotting cruise then have lunch in Daintree Village. Cow Bay awaits nearby for a few hours of beachcombing. Last stop is Cape Tribulation , a magnificent collision of rainforest and reef. Spend a few nights at one of the upmarket lodges nooked into the rainforest here.

A tale of two cities – Brisbane to the Gold Coast (7-10 days)

Watch your worries fade away as you trek out of the lovingly big-city Brisbane and out into the chilled-out Gold Coast surf towns and northern New South Wales . Before you leave Brisbane, though, you’ll want a couple days to enjoy Queensland’s river-city capital, a semitropical boomtown dappled with brilliant bars, cafes and bookshops (the pillars of civilised society).

Don’t miss the excellent Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) , the Brisbane Powerhouse arts hub, craft-beer bars and live tunes in the West End. Save a night on the tiles in hedonistic Fortitude Valley and make time for a ferry trip out to North Stradbroke Island for surfing, sea kayaking and fish-and-chips on the sand. Back on the mainland, scoot west to the Granite Belt region for cool-climate wineries and some boulder-hopping in Girraween National Park .

An hour south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast bares its beachy, brassy soul. The epicentre here is celebratory Surfers Paradise , with its brazen sun and after-dark good times. More relaxed and surf-centric are Burleigh Heads and laid-back Coolangatta. Head a quick 50-minute dash south into New South Wales and you’ll find the alt-lifestyle haven of Byron Bay , home to endless beaches, delightful accommodation, delectable food and more. The local charisma is so strong that many wandering nomads stop in Byron Bay only to never leave.

The Great Beach Drive – Sunshine Coast & Fraser Island (10 days)

Maybe your idea of a winning road trip depends on access to high-profile outdoor adventure. If so, you want to take on the aptly named Sunshine Coast in southeast Queensland. Start by meandering through the curious geology of the Glass House Mountains, with their breath-robbing panoramas and outstanding rock-climbing. Nearby is the superb Australia Zoo – brilliant if you have the kids in tow (and even if you don’t).

Next up, sunny Mooloolaba has solid surf and chipper beach vibes and boasts fresh catches of local "Mooloolaba King” prawns. Another half-hour north and you’ll reach Noosa and its lush national park (home to sometimes-spotted koalas), river kayaking and a first-class foodie scene.

A couple of hours north is gorgeous Rainbow Beach , full of surfing, fishing, paragliding, hiking, skydiving, horse-riding and more. From here, explore the huge dunes, beach “highways”, bushwalks and crystalline lakes on the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, the largest sand island on the planet (BYO 4WD, or take a tour).

Looping south, visit historic Maryborough, the birthplace of Mary Poppins author PL Travers; then explore Tin Can Bay, home to an improbable number of sea turtles, dugongs and rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.

Offshore adventure – Airlie Beach to Magnetic Island (10 days)

Road trips and islands don’t make obvious pairing, but Queensland’s offshore offerings are so dense that you can survey a good bit of them in one trip linked with unforgettable coastal coastal drives.

Start in Airlie Beach . Here you can cut loose an unending population of travellers before booking a boat trip out to the glorious Whitsunday Islands archipelago. There are myriad Whitsunday daytrip options, but a multiday sail will let you leave your footprints on remote beaches with no one else on them. Don’t miss Whitsunday Island itself and a memorable swim off sublime Whitehaven Beach, often touted as Australia’s prettiest.

After cruising the islands, book a few nights at a swish offshore resort – Hamilton, Hayman and Daydream islands await. Feeling more adventurous? Sign up for an overnight kayaking trip with island camping.

Next you’ll want to head about three hours north to Townsville . Here, promenade along the waterfront, check out the excellent Reef HQ Aquarium , clamber up Castle Hill and lunch into Townsville’s impressive eating and drinking scene (try the seafood, of course). Experienced divers can book a dive on the famous wreck of the SS Yongala offshore.

Wind up your journey on Magnetic Island , an unpretentious isle with easy-going beach villages, rampant wildlife and scenic bushwalking aplenty.

A little bit of everything – Sydney to Melbourne (1 week)

By now, you’re far from the rugged charms of Queensland, but the coast road between Sydney and Melbourne offers an abundance of national parks, surf beaches, ocean wildlife and disarming small-town vibes.

Sydney is Australia’s biggest and brightest city, offering iconic experiences like the Sydney Opera House , the Sydney Harbour Bridge , harbour ferries to Manly and the bustling Bondi Beach . Just south, though, you’ll find the dramatic cliffs and bushwalks of Royal National Park and the elevated Grand Pacific Drive roadway, arcing out above the ocean for impressive ride.

At Jervis Bay, you’ll find white-sand beaches, cavorting dolphins and national parks. With quick detour inland, you can visit Australia’s capital Canberra to check on proceedings at parliament house and visit the nation’s best museums.

Coastal Narooma has pretty beaches and solid surf. From here, catch a ferry to Montague Island, an important Aboriginal site and an impressive nature reserve. On south-coast NSW, sleepy Eden is famed for whale watching, and don’t miss historic, picture-perfect Central Tilba.

Crossing into Victoria, you can glide through forests, farms and the Gippsland Lakes district to Wilsons Promontory, with its fab bushwalks, camping and beaches. Beyond lies Phillip Island, where penguins, seals and surfers frolic in the brine. Finally, it’s the big smoke – Melbourne.

Southern coastal classic – Melbourne & the Great Ocean Rd (7-10 days)

This classic rite-of-passage road trip tracks south from sophisticated Melbourne along the craggy Great Ocean Road – expect lovely little beach towns, great waves and epic scenery. Melbourne has enough to keep frequent-flyers grounded for months: laneway bars, galleries, live music, shopping, coffee culture, Australian Rules football and more. But an hour south, Great Ocean Road beckons.

Start in the surfing mecca of Torquay and check the swell at legendary Bells Beach , then roll into family-focussed Anglesea for a surf lesson and a riverside picnic. Aireys Inlet is just around the bend: tour the lighthouse then spend the night in urbane little Lorne.

West of here, Great Ocean Road gets wiggly and seriously scenic, winding between the churning sea and the forest-clad Otway Ranges. Unwind in the artsy fishing village of Apollo Bay for a few days (great pub!), then swing by Cape Otway to spy some koalas and the iconic lighthouse.

Next up is Port Campbell National Park and its famed Twelve Apostles rock formation: count them from the clifftops or book yourself onto a scenic flight. Scan for whales off the Warrnambool coast, then continue west to the quaint, rather Irish-feeling Port Fairy . The folk festival here every March sends the wee town into hyperdrive!

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Australia's 10 best road trips   The 7 best road trips from Melbourne Australian road trip: where to find the best Big Things   

This article was first published Nov 28, 2016 and updated Sep 24, 2020.

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25 of the most iconic Australian road trips to drive in your lifetime

Here's how to survive the great aussie road trip, 1. red centre way, northern territory, 2. the savannah way, queensland and western australia.

Red Centre Way: that long, hot road.

© Oliver Pelling

3. The Great Beach Drive, Queensland

4. cairns to cape tribulation (or even cape york), queensland, 5. brisbane to cairns, queensland.

Fraser Island is worth the trip – whichever road you take to get there.

© Antoine Beauvillain

6. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

7. eyre peninsula, south australia, 8. gibb river road, western australia.

The Great Ocean Road is almost as good as it gets.

© Weyne Yew

9. Darwin to Litchfield (via Katherine and Kakadu), Northern Territory

30 things all aussies should do before turning 30, 10. broome to perth, western australia, 11. 75-mile highway, queensland.

Camping in Karijini National Park, Western Australia.

© Huib Scholten

12. The Great Alpine Road, Victoria

13. perth to darwin, western australia and northern territory, 14. sydney to melbourne, new south wales and victoria.

Camping on the beach along Tasmania's Great Eastern Drive.

© Manuel Meurisse

15. The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia

101 of the best travel experiences in the world right now, 16. the pilbara, western australia, 17. hobart to freycinet, tasmania.

The Nullarbor Plain, one of the world's greatest adventure drives.

© Alexander Hough

18. The Tassie Loop, Tasmania

19. kangaroo island (and the fleurieu), south australia, 20. the outback way, queensland, northern territory and western australia.

Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong, Australia.

© Matthew Kane

21. The Old Grafton Road, New South Wales

22. heritage highway, tasmania, 23. the grand pacific drive, new south wales.

A goodlooking pit sto along Highway One, Australia.

© Jo Stewart

24. (From anywhere) to Silverton, New South Wales

25. the big lap, how to actually drive around the edge of australia.

Road Trips Australia

Travel made easy.

Epic Adventures: The Ultimate Road Trip Planner Australia

Welcome to Road Trips Australia, the road trip planner Australia where passion for exploration meets meticulous planning! I’m Felecia, a devoted travel enthusiast, and I’ve curated detailed, adventurous and achievable road trips from every capital city in Australia. Join me on a journey through the diverse landscapes, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems that make road-tripping through Australia an unforgettable experience. Your road trip of a lifetime begins here!

Best Road Trip Planner Australia: Crafting Unforgettable Journeys

Capturing coastal splendour:, into the heart of the outback, mountain escapes, township chronicles, historical and cultural exploration, discover regional produce, iconic australian landscapes and national parks, free road trip planner australia: unlocking affordable adventures, caravan trip planner australia: unveiling the nomadic wonders, tailor-made road trip planner australia: your personalized adventure, conclusion: your road trip adventure awaits.

Curating the best road trips requires an understanding of the diverse landscapes Australia offers. Our Road Trip Planner Australia is a collection of carefully crafted itineraries that capture the essence of each region. The Best Road Trip Planner Australia is more than just a helpful guide; it’s an initation to explore the diverse regions that define this vast continent.

What do I get with my Road Trip Planner Australia?

• Choose a 7 – 14-day crafted itinerary for your chosen state.
• Achievable daily driving distances averaging 300 km per day.
• Suggested things to do and places to see.
• Suggested places to stay to suit accommodation seekers, RV’s (Recreational Vehicles), and camping.
• Each road trip planner has a map you can share with your device.

Further, we make trip planning easy: check out our meal planning guide , packing list , and the best navigation and travel apps to assist in a successful journey!

Road Trip Planner Australia: Marvelous Driving Holidays

Escape the ordinary and embrace extraordinary adventures with our Road Trip Planner Australia for driving holidays tailored for 7 and 14-day journeys ideal for annual leave and school holidays. Unfold the ideal roadmap to explore unique pockets of Australia, piece by piece. Extend your trip to discover a new region of Australia: Perhaps fly-and-drive WA, Tasmania, or the Northern Territory, the possibilities are endless.

For those enchanted by the allure of the sea, dive into road trips along the mesmerising coastlines. Wind your way along the iconic Great Ocean Road , Victoria, be amazed by South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula or discover hidden coves, the peaceful beaches of North Queensland and charming seaside towns that dot the Australian coastline.

Venture into the heart of Australia with road trips that traverse the rugged beauty of the Outback. Feel the red earth beneath your feet at the Simpson Desert , witness the surreal landscapes of the Red Centre , and camp under a blanket of stars that illuminate the vast, open sky in Outback Queensland . The Best Road Trip Planner Australia unveils the secrets of the outback and the stories etched into its ancient rocks.

Escape to the tranquillity of the mountains with road trips that lead to the high country. Explore the peak of Mount Kosciuszko National Park , the iconic Blue Mountains, or the Alpine region of Tasmania at Cradle Mountain , a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Continue your journey through elevated vistas and charming mountain villages.

Each town becomes a chapter in Australia’s story. From historic pubs to the coastal charm of Port Fairy, the Best Road Trip Planner Australia invites you to wander through towns that have preserved the essence of Australia’s past. Explore heritage-listed buildings and local museum s , and engage with the stories that define these unique regional areas.

Venture beyond urban confines to discover the heart of Australian heritage in regional areas. The road trip planner beckons you to explore the remnants of the gold rush in Victoria , trace the convict history etched in the landscapes of Tasmania , and feel the ancient pulse of Aboriginal heritage in the windswept terrains of the Red Centre .

For the connoisseurs of life’s pleasures, our road trip planner journeys by wine, distillery and food opportunities through Australia’s renowned regions. Taste the exquisite drops of the Coonawarra , savour fresh local produce along roadside stalls, and indulge in culinary delights across Tasmania or South Australia’s Coffin Bay Oysters . Discover a journey that excites your palate and elevates your senses.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Australia’s iconic landscapes and national parks on our journeys. From the remote gorges of North Queensland’s Savannah Way to the Alpine National Park , our road trip planner directs you to these natural marvels. Immerse yourself in the pristine environments of national parks, where Australia’s unique flora and fauna come to life. Experience the awe-inspiring landscapes that define the continent, ensuring your journey is not only affordable but also rich in the unparalleled beauty of the Australian wilderness.

Embark on explorations with our Free Road Trip Planner Australia, tailored for all kinds of travellers, from those seeking accommodations to RV enthusiasts and budget-conscious wanderers. This planner is not just a guide; it’s a key to unlocking affordable adventures across the diverse landscapes of Australia. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in the Outback, navigating coastal roads, or seeking serenity in the mountains, this free planner ensures that the thrill of the open road is accessible to everyone. Let your journey be a testament to the idea that adventure knows no price tag and the beauty of Australia awaits.

For those seeking the freedom of the open road with your RV (Recreational Vehicle), Road Trip Planner Australia is your gateway to nomadic wonders. Explore the vastness of the Outback, coastal retreats, and lush hinterlands while enjoying the comforts of your caravan or RV. From the sun-kissed beaches of Queensland to the rugged beauty of Western Australia, our road trip planner is your roadmap to caravan adventures that redefine travel. Should you have the luxury of time, join the road trips together for an extended adventure.

Helping you discover Australia piece by piece with Road Trip Planner Australia!

So, no two travellers are the same, nor should their road trips be. Our Tailor-Made Road Trip Planner Australia presents the opportunity to have a customised adventure. Choose your departure destination and preferred places of interest, choose activities that align with your interests, and we can create a road trip that reflects your unique travel identity. It’s your journey, your way.

Contact us for the creation of your tailor-made road trip Australia!

At Road Trips Australia, we believe that every journey should be an exploration of self and surroundings. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal allure of the Great Ocean Road or the vast beauty of Australia’s Outback, our road trip planner Australia is created to inspire and guide. Start your engines, pack your sense of adventure, and let the roads of Australia unfold before you. The ultimate road trip adventure awaits – are you ready?

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How to Plan the Ultimate Australia Road Trip

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Few places lend themselves to a great road trip than Australia: open roads, stunning scenery, remote places… Whether you like adventure or a leisurely drive, Australia has the perfect conditions for a road trip. 

Table of Contents

How to Plan the Ultimate Australia Road Trip?

There are many considerations for a road trip in Australia and to be successful, it does require some preparation. There is a long tradition of “driving around Australia”, so here is my advice on planning the trip of a lifetime.

I recently drove along the West Australia Coast and it was a fantastic experience!

A little further afield, I spent two weeks in New Zealand . Driving in New Zealand is also a great adventure!

The Best Time to go

The climatic conditions of Australia vary a great deal and the time to go depends on the season you prefer. 

Also, considerations around the season and climate may help you decide whether you want to be travelling around Australia, or whether you prefer local and shorter road trips. 

And remember that the seasons are the opposite than the northern hemisphere!

Summer: From December to February

Summer can be extremely hot and sunny in Australia, but it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your Australia road trip, on the contrary. The sky is blue, the beaches are so inviting and there is a holiday feel everywhere. 

The top end of Australia is the only place I wouldn’t recommend as it gets very humid. North Queensland, the Northern Territory and the north of Western Australia are probably best to visit in other seasons.

Summer is the best time for Tasmania, South Australia and Victoria.

Autumn: From March to May

After the humid heat of summer, the lighter temperatures of autumn are a welcome relief. Autumn is a perfect season for a trip to Australia, heading north into winter.

Winter: June to August

Compared to the Northern Hemisphere, winter is generally mild in Australia,  thus perfect for driving holidays. Winter is probably the best time to explore the north of Australia.

Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales can get pretty cold in winter.

Spring: September to November

In the southern states of Australia, spring is fresh and often windy. Western Australia is fantastic in spring if you want to see wildflowers. Spring is also a good time to start a round trip, heading south into summer.

The Australia climate and weather is so broad, you have many options on where to start and choose some of the best road trips in Australia.

Accommodation in Australia

There is plenty of accommodation in Australia. It’s a great way to stay in unique places and meet the locals.

Local Road Trip or Grand Tour?

The grand tour of Australia is a dream for many, a life-changing journey. Many people undertake the journey when they come to work in Australia for a year. Imagine driving across Australia at your own pace, discovering new landscapes and territories… 

If the grand tour is not an option, there are plenty of options to admire the Australia scenery. There are many Australian road trip routes to choose from… Pick up a road map of Australia and start on your driving route planner. You will also need to prepare a budget for Australia .

Great Australian Road Trips

Here are a few ideas for an East Coast road trip:

Sydney & NSW road trips

Blue Mountains : my first suggestion for a Sydney road trip

Mudgee and Orange are great for a food and wine trip.

Batemans Bay

The trifecta Berry – Kangaroo Valley – Berrima is one of the best road trips from Sydney through the Southern Highlands.

Road trips from Melbourne, Victoria

Great Ocean Road itinerary. You can do a Great Ocean Road day trip but it’s better to allow a couple of days.

Philip Island

Wilson Promontory

Grampians National Park

Sovereign Hill is another, less known Melbourne road trip.

You can also do the Melbourne to Perth drive across the Nullarbor Plain.

Queensland Road Trips

Also on East Coast Australia, the Sunshine state has some great ideas for going on a road trip. Once you have explored Brisbane, have a look at these options:

Townsville to Mission Beach

Fraser Island is a great Queensland road trip

Port Douglas

Daintree Forest & Cape Tribulation

There are also many road trips from Brisbane and the Gold Coast .

South Australia Road Trips

My South Australia road trip took me to Kangaroo Island .

Tasmania Road Trips

East Coast Tasmania road trip

Cradle Mountain

Ultimate Tasmania

Bruny Island

Western Australia Road Trips

Some of the best Australia road trips are in Western Australia.

Perth road trip including Fremantle .

Some great road trips from Perth include the South West and Albany .

For a complete Western Australia road trip itinerary, you should consider Kalbarri, Exmouth, Monkey Mia and Broome.

Northern Territory Road Trips

Kings Canyon

Alice Springs

Kakadu National Park

Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise?

If you do the grand tour of Australia, you need to decide whether to go clockwise or anti-clockwise. I think your starting date should command this decision. If you start in spring or summer, head south for your first experience of self drive in Australia

And if you start in autumn or winter, head north first. Indeed, many people who start their journey in Sydney embark on an East Coast Australia road trip. Depending on where you start from, that’s your direction sorted. Either way, driving in Australia is quite easy.

How Much Time for the Grand Tour?

Well, how fast can you drive? And how much do you want to see on your trip around Australia? I wouldn’t recommend doing this Aussie trip in less than 6 months if you want to allow some time to really discover the country.

Six months is a long time to be on the road and you will need a comprehensive Australia road trip itinerary. I also recommend choosing some places to stay for several days or even weeks, in order to get a good rest and avoid road weariness. 

Solo Road Trip or Couple Road Trip?

If you are wondering what to bring on a road trip, a partner is a good idea! I have done road trips in Australia both solo and with my husband, and I love both. I love driving on my own, listening to my own playlist or podcasts, but it does get lonely. Couple travel is what I would recommend as Australia self drive will require some long stretches of road.

What to Pack for a Road Trip?

Things to take on a road trip.

The list of things to pack for a road trip can be long and really depends on your travelling style. Whether you decide to camp, travel in a minivan or stay in accommodation every night, I recommend limiting your road trip essentials to the equivalent of “hand luggage” on a flight.

Offline Maps

Google Maps work very well in Australia, so long as there is an internet connection… There will be plenty of places without internet or phone reception, and even if you have a local SIM card, maps could cost you a lot of data. 

I recommend downloading the necessary maps to your smartphone before you go, so you don’t have to worry.

Podcasts, audiobooks, playlists

Even if you travel with a partner or a friend, conversation will dry up at some point… Podcasts and playlists can be some fun road trips essentials. Spotify is a great place to start for playlists!

Where to stay in Australia

When planning a road trip around Australia, you will find various accommodation options: camp sites , caravan parks, hotels, motels, resorts… If you are doing a road trip, short or long, it’s important to book ahead. Caravan Parks Australia Wide is a good guide to have with you. There is no shortage of accommodation in Australia, but places can book up, especially during school holidays and in some isolated places, there aren’t many options.

Things you need to know for a road trip

Driving rules in australia.

People drive on the left side of the road in Australia. It does take a little getting used to and you will action the windscreen wipers instead of the indicator many times before you get the hang of it.

Travelling with Children

Children and babies must be restrained in an approved car seat or booster seat, up to 7 years old in some states.

Australian Toll Roads

Tolls are mostly in metropolitan areas. If your vehicle doesn’t have a toll tag, you can purchase a temporary pass. You have 72 hours to pay a toll. Make sure you have that in your road trip items as the fines can be high!

Driving etiquette

Australian drivers are pretty good, disciplined and mostly polite. You do get the occasional Fangio but generally people stay within their driving lane. Do the same and always slow down when you get to a small town.

The vast majority of people drive within the speed limit. There are police patrols, even in the bush and fines can be high! Also watch for speed cameras at the entrance of small towns.

Make sure you brush up on traffic rules in Australia.

Australian Roads

Depending on whether you want to visit the more remote places of Australia, you may need a 4WD vehicle. However, that’s not a pre-requisite for a road trip, including the grand tour. Mostly, asphalt roads are in good condition and a lot of unsealed roads are very easily accessible to 2WD vehicles. Driving in Australia for tourists is not difficult as long as you are aware of a few dangers.

However, if a road is marked “4WD only” do not attempt it in a 2WD! Driving on sand also requires some knowledge and care.

Generally, there are rest stops every 80 to 100km.

Other Things You Need

At a minimum, you need to take Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance to cover injuries you could cause to others. Also, your vehicle must be registered.

Drivers Licence

You can drive for three months with a foreign licence in English. Beyond that, you will need an Australian drivers license. If your license is not in English, you need to get an International Driving Permit from the Automobile Association of your country. 

Australia is a country of enormous proportions. If you come from Europe, this will take some getting used to. Even if you come from the US, the fact that you may need to drive for 5 or 6 hours just to get somewhere is something to take into consideration.

I recommend spending some time calculating distances on Google Maps, to give you an idea of how much driving you can fit into a day.

Driving day or night?

Most roads in cities or coastal areas are well lit and in good condition so daytime or night time driving won’t make much difference. In remote areas though, it’s very different. Even in rural areas, you may have to drive in pitch darkness and the animals tend to come out at night. In the bush, I would suggest driving during the day only, and also avoid sunrise and sunset.

If you have a long distance to cover, don’t neglect your sleep. If you are travelling as a couple, or with friends, talking late in the night can be tempting. But you really need your sleep. Don’t risk falling asleep at the wheel!

Family and friends

When you travel around Australia by car, you are bound to drive into fairly isolated areas or be gone for a few days. Every few days, let someone know how you are travelling.

Wildlife & Road Trains

Australian wildlife is plentiful and quirky, and fun for the most part. If you are planning a road trip to Australia, you’ve probably heard that “they’re all out to kill you”… Whilst not strictly true, wildlife can be a serious threat on the road.

Animals like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koalas can seriously damage your car if you hit them and this type of damage is not necessarily covered by insurance.

Animals tend to come out at dusk and night. In some places, you can drive with kangaroos bouncing everywhere…

If you come across an animal, do not swerve! Hit the brakes but do not swerve, as it is the best way to lose control of your vehicle.

Road trains

This is an occurrence unique to Australia and you will only encounter them along the highways travelling from the Northern Territory to South Australia, or to Western Australia, across the Nullarbor Plain. 

Road trains are not trains, but massive trucks pulling several trailers. A road train can measure up to 100m long! They travel fast and they own the road, so it’s best to stay out of the way and pull over to let them through.

Road Trip Essentials List for an Emergency

Check your vehicle thoroughly.

When picking up your vehicle, make sure you check it thoroughly. If you buy a vehicle privately and especially if it’s second hand, make sure the paperwork is in order, the tyres are in good condition…

Satellite phone

This is more relevant if you go off road, into more isolated areas but it can be a lifesaver in case of emergency or breakdown.

EPIRB or PLB

This is an emergency tracking device, a beacon you can activate if you become stranded. Again, this is relevant only if you go to seriously remote areas.

First aid kit

You should include a first aid kit to your road trip supplies, even for a short road trip.

Extra Water & Petrol

On long drives through the bush, a simple water bottle isn’t going to cut it. You need additional water supplies in your road trip kit, especially if you drive during the summer months. 

The same goes for petrol, you may want to keep a spare jerrycan of petrol in your boot.

Snacks & Food

If you are camping along the way, you need to plan your meals and make sure you don’t run out of food between supply towns. All the same, if you are driving for shorter road trips, snacks should be on your road trip must haves. Driving can be tiring and a little food will help you along the way.

In case of B reakdown

If you have a breakdown in an urban area, a tow truck will easily come along… However, if you are in the bush, things could be a little more complicated… 

Whatever you do, do not leave your vehicle and assume you can walk to the next town… People have died making that mistake! 

Wait there, and flag down the first passing vehicle…

What to Include in your B udget

• Cost of the vehicle
• Food & Drink
• Accommodation or camping fees
• National Park fees. Having a National Park checklist is a good idea!
• Tours & activities along the way

Related Posts

Road trip essentials, planning a solo trip, west coast australia.

Now you know what to take on a road trip and you are ready to start driving in Australia. Tell me which way you are going in the comments below!

Save these tips for an Australia road trip on Pinterest!

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48 thoughts on “How to Plan the Ultimate Australia Road Trip”

I enjoyed your blog. I travel in and around Australia regularly and found some new useful tips.

Hi Sharyn, thank you for dropping by. I really feel like taking a road trip right now after all this research and reflecting on my previous travels

So complete and detailed. I have only done a few of these Australia road trip segments, my favourite being the Great Ocean Road. There are so many on my wishlist, but I don’t think I have the patience to do the “big” trip in one go.

I’m like you Rhonda, I’m not sure I’m ready to be on the road for 6 months… I have friends who did for 7 months with 3 kids and they’d had enough by the end. They also said they were on the move a lot, Australia is a big country and they couldn’t settle anywhere for very long. I really want to drive from Sydney to Perth across the Nullarbor though…

Wow, this is a long post. One thing I would like to recommend: do NOT rely on Google maps for navigation! Their routing is always favouring main roads. This might be faster but is not the reason to take a road trip. You want to see things, have interesting or scenic reasons for a break! And to rely on Google offline maps can be tricky because often one map gets deleted when you download the second – but you might need both. We are using our Android devices with dedicated offline navigation apps, where you download all maps beforehand!

Hi Juergen, I’ve done pretty well with google maps offline but this is a great tip, thank you for sharing this advice.

Would so totally love to do a road trip all the way around Australia and survive it! I dont plan to roll over the car! 😀 I only been to Melbourne which is totally amazing city but I really want to get into the outback and explore! Good tips on road trips here.

Australian cities are interesting but the real Australia is in the bush. It’s well worth hitting the road and seeing some of the beautiful landscape Australia has to offer. I hope you get to fulfil that dream someday!

Road Tripping Australia sure does take some forward planning and preparation. It’s such a vast country and the weather can be extreme, as you’ve mentioned. Lots of really important info here, thanks.

Hi Emma, you’re an old hand at road tripping, I admire your set up! It must make camping so comfortable! I’m you upvote my tips, you’re a bit of an authority on living on the road!

Australia has been on my wish list for a long time. Your tips will definitely make traveling preparation easier. I’ll remember that in any case and maybe it’ll work out soon with a trip to Australia.

Hi Susanne, Australia may appear easy to travel around and it is when you look at the state of most roads and the fact that the vast majority of the population lives in coastal areas. However, the distances, the wildlife and the isolation of some places mean that you need to be prepared and ready for any sort of emergency.

So much detail! I would love to go on this Australian road trip. Looks like such a beautiful country. Also, that wombat is beyond cute! I want it.

Hi Sam, I’m biased but I agree that Australia is a beautiful country. The wildlife makes it a fantastic destination as they are everywhere.

I knew that road trips in Australia were a huge deal and I totally agree it’s a great way to see a country (just like here in the US). However, I had no idea how much there was to think about for the planning. Your trips are extremely helpful-especially for the wildlife and speed traps. I would have to have someone with me though. It’s the one kind of travel I don’t like to do alone.

Hi Heather, I think any kind of travel requires some preparation and I have to admit I’m not always the best at that. But a serious drive in Australia can’t be approached lightly. Another advantage of being organised is that you don’t miss out on anything really important.

Great comprehensive post. For most people, tourists and locals alike I think the best plan is to break Australia up into more manageable segments and see it region by region over several different trips.

Hi Lyn, I agree that the full tour is a big undertaking and takes a long time. Right now, I’m more into small local road trips but I would love to drive from Sydney to Perth on the Nullarbor. Who knows whether I’ll do the full tour some day!

I enjoy a great Australian roadtrip but I always include a lot of stops along the way, otherwise it can get very tiring. And yes, always with company, as it’s so much more fun. Australia has very good roads, so that makes it quite safe and easy enough to find your way around this huge country. I love all the detailed information you have provided Delphine.

Hi Tania, an Australian road trip is not only about the drive but also about the many places you can visit along the way. So it’s important to manage some time to stop and enjoy life. When you think about how big the country is, it’s quite amazing that you can drive all around it quite safely.

What a detailed post, very informative! I’ve never been to Australia but it’s on my travel list for so long. Indeed, I’m from Europe, so it will take some getting used to the enormous distances between places. I can’t imagine driving for 6 hours without seeing anything but nature. I also think I’ll have to go to Tasmania too, that wombat is SO CUTE!!

Hi Paulien, the distances are pretty big but there are plenty of places to see within a relatively short distances. Even in Sydney, it’s actually quite easy to feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Tasmania is fantastic for road trips. It looks a lot smaller but the distances are not to be underestimated, especially when driving on windy mountain roads. The best is driving through the wilderness, it’s so peaceful!

I have only visited Perth and that was decades ago ! Always wanted to return to Australia, and hopefully do a road trip ! Love the southern route with the coastal landscapes, and also the northern route with the desert outback setting ! I hope that rolled over car is not yours =S

Hi Jeremy, the car lying on its side is not mine, thankfully! We saw it on Bruny Island in Tasmania, no one was hurt but it looked spectacular. It was a tour company vehicle driving too fast on a dirt road…

Wonderful tips on taking a road trip in Australia with regions and climate variations. As Australia is diverse, there are many places which we can visit in winters too. I have done Great Ocean Road road trip and it was really beautiful and hopefully, I will do it other road trips in future.

Hi Yukti, the Great Ocean Road is one of my favourite road trips in Australia. It’s such a beautiful stretch of the coast! And there is also plenty to see inland, with a beautiful rural landscape and some gorgeous forests.

Incredible pics and great tips. I live in Sydney and love a road trip. I’ve done the Sydney to Melbourne and Sydney to Gold Coast and really wanting to do the whole Sydney to Perth and back through Darwin. In the planning for Christmas this year. Will bookmark this for reference 🙂

Hi Kristina, I’m also planning a road trip for Christmas. I would love to go to New Zealand but I wonder if it’s going to be too busy…

So comprehensive and so helpful. We are actively planning a WA road trip now. Many of the tips are the same for New Zealand, but there are definitely a few new ones here.

Hi Rhonda, I think the most daunting thing about a road trip in Australia is the massive distances. I bet a lot of travellers are taken aback by the amount of time you need to drive from one place to another without seeing very much. At least New Zealand is a bit kinder with the distances…

This is such a great resource for people traveling to Australia. We are Australian and are currently living in a caravan. We’ve been meeting other families from all over the world who are also doing a Big Australian Lap. Everyone we meet from Europe says that the environment in Australia is amazing and it’s a great place to travel with kids, as long as you have time!

Hi Emily, I’m pleased this article is useful. It’s true that Australia is a great place for an epic road trip. A friend of mine took her three kids, husband and trailer all around Australia for several months and really enjoyed it. I hope to make the trip some day myself.

Planning a road trip in Australia certainly looks like a serious endeavour. And good to do much of the planning in advance. A grand tour is something we would likely want to try. But segments of the trip might work if we planned multiple trips to Australia. We generally don’t rely on internet maps. Our offline map app works great is so many places in the world. I wonder how it would handle the more remote parts of Australia? For most road trips we usually do go with a 4WD rental. Just makes is safer for less well maintained road. This looks like a major adventure we would like to do one day.

I hope to do the grand tour eventually, it’s such a great adventure. In the meantime, I like to take smaller trips, driving is such free way to travel!

All road trips require planning. I liked the itinerary you have planned with attention to so many details. I am dreaming of all the photo opportunities possible during the trips.

Australia is certainly very photogenic, at any time of the day. I will go around Australia one day, maybe in a motorhome, it will be a great trip!

These are lovely tips! I visited Australia when I was only 12 so I clearly had no hand in the planning. I do remember visiting in the winter and being so cold at the Twelve Apostles, but I bought a scarf that I still have today! Hopefully I can go back in a warmer season!

I was at the Twelve Apostles in summer and it wasn’t very warm, just one of these windy days… Hopefully I’ll get better weather next time!

Great Post. I am looking forward to road tripping in Australia. Thanks for all the tips.

I dream of doing the whole tour of Australia, but in the meantime I can do short drives around Sydney.

This is such a comprehensive—and inspiring—planning guide. It makes me want to pack up my bags and move to Australia like you did! When I ever do get to this bucket list destination, you can bet I’ll be looking to your guide for road tripping. Thanks for these practical tips and a taste of what an Australian road trip can be like.

Thanks Jackie, a road trip is a great way to visit Australia, there is a lot of ground to cover!

What a fantastic guide! I’m Australian and haven’t scratched the surface exploring home. Would love to do a road trip around Oz one day and this is the perfect guide 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

I have been living in Australia for over 20 years and I have yet to see so many places… At least, I have an idea of where to start planning my road trip!

Doing a road trip across Australia has been a dream of mine!! Thank you for the info! 🙂 I’ll definitely be using this when the time comes!

Hi Kylie, I dream of a road trip all around Australia. It will happen someday, not sure when but it will be an adventure!

This is amazing! I would have been doing some of these very roadtrips had it not been for covid. I had to leave Australia 3 months ago but I will make it back there and hopefully do these awesome road trips!

The roads are still there so there will be plenty of opportunities to do these trips in the future. I feel the same, I can’t wait to get back out there!

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East coast australia road trip itinerary and ultimate guide.

Show-stopping beaches, charismatic little towns, eden-like national parks and unforgettable adrenalin filled activities mean it’s no wonder why the east coast of Australia is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.

And it’s all relatively easy to explore; you just need a vehicle or a coach pass, a chunk of time (I’d recommend 6-8 weeks if you really want to see everything, or 4 weeks if you’re just after the highlights), sufficient funds and a sense of adventure!

This east coast Australia road trip itinerary will take you from just above the tropical city of Cairns, to hidden gems such as Mission Beach and Innisfail, through world famous sites like Magnetic Island and the Whitsundays, down through little surf towns and some of the best diving sites on the east coast to the bucket-list destination of Fraser Island, through south Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and its capital, Brisbane.

It will then traverse the Brisbane to Sydney drive, through the backpacker haven of the Gold Coast, then to northern New South Wales, an area that includes Byron Bay (one of my favorite places in the world) and its surrounding quirky towns and beautiful hinterland.

The route then follows the Pacific Coast Highway and travels through various beautiful New South Wales coastal towns before arriving at Sydney.

From Sydney, the east coast Australia road trip is directed to Melbourne via the coastal route, where the road calls at various other New South Wales and Victorian towns, national parks, and even an island before finishing in the state capital of Victoria; the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne.

It’s a long way, it will take you through a range of different climates and cultures, through tiny in-the-middle-of-nowhere towns to backpacker hubs and bustling cities, and will span some of the most gorgeous beaches on the planet as well as breathtaking inland natural scenery nearly every step of the way.

Are you ready for the ultimate east coast Australia road trip itinerary? This route is completely customisable to your wishes and needs. It could be done in reverse, or in chunks – if you’re flying into a different city, you might want to start elsewhere.

There are international airports in Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne and the Gold Coast on this route – check out this Gold Coast airport review to learn about this point of entry to the east coast of Australia.

If you’re not doing the whole Cairns to Melbourne drive, use this nifty table of contents to take you to just the part of the road trip that you want to go on.

Organise your vehicle for your East Coast Australia Road Trip

I traveled all over Australia in my trusty Subaru Forester, and I’d highly recommend to anyone to make this odyssey in your own (or rented) vehicle.

Not only does your own car or van give you the freedom to travel at your own pace, editing your itinerary if you want to stay longer or shorter somewhere, it often works out cheaper, because you can split fuel costs with friends and stay at free campsites.

I had my own car for this trip and all of my Aussie road trips, and if you are planning on traveling more than just the east coast (which you should, as the rest of the country is spectacular) then I’d recommend you buy a car of your own.

But if this road trip is a one-off or you don’t want the hassle and commitment of buying a car, renting is also an option.

I haven’t used any of these myself, but some popular companies are:

• Jucy campers
• Wicked Campers

If you’re planning on drinking 24/7 or just don’t fancy driving all of that way then taking the coach is probably the best bet for you.

Greyhound and Premier both plough the east coast daily – Greyhound is known for having better facilities, offering free (temperamental) wifi, power sockets, and comfier seats – but Premier is slightly cheaper.

Greyhound’s southern service from Sydney goes inland and pretty much straight to Melbourne via Canberra, but Premier follows closely to the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive I have suggested.

Once you get to Eden, which is right near the New South Wales/ Victoria border, V Line will get you through eastern Victoria and into Melbourne.

Once you’ve sorted your car, van or coach pass out, you’re ready to hit the road!

Do you want some more information about transport in Australia, where to stay, and what to eat in the land down under? Check out this Australia travel guide for some really helpful information.

When to Go On the East Coast Australia Road Trip

This East Coast Australia road trip itinerary begins in Cairns and travels south to Melbourne.

This is a great way to do your trip if you’re traveling in Australia’s autumn, as Victoria takes a while to heat up!

The reverse is true if you’re journeying in the spring.

If you’re road tripping in winter, brace yourself for cold temperatures in Victoria, New South Wales, and South Queensland but look forward to near-perfect weather in Central and North Queensland.

In the summer, you’ll be sweltering everywhere – but watch out for tropical storms and seriously hot temperatures in the North, and make sure you wear stinger suits everywhere that they’re recommended.

Where to stay on the East Coast of Australia – hostels or camping?

Nowhere quite does hostels like the East Coast of Australia – and I’m pretty sure that no hostels are quite as expensive as the East Coast of Australia.

You’ll make some great friends in the East Coast’s hostels and it would be a shame to miss them out completely, as they are a part of the coast’s backpacking experience.

But you may have to declare bankruptcy if you stay at all of them.

That’s why I’ve recommended selected hostels in some of the tourist hotspots, that I’ve either stayed at personally or that have come highly recommended by fellow travelers.

In all the gaps where hostels haven’t been mentioned, there are plenty of free camping options – which are perfect if you have your own vehicle.

If you’re intrigued about free camping in Australia and want to find out more, click on the below link.

If not, there are plenty of hostels, Airbnbs, and hotels in most of the tourist spots on your East Coast Australia road trip.

Cairns to Brisbane Drive Itinerary

Perhaps the most iconic road trip in all of Australia, the Cairns to Brisbane drive odyssey spans over 1700 kilometres, through countless national parks, beside hundreds of postcard-perfect beaches and a huge reef and takes you from the tropics to the subtropics.

There are so many reasons why the Cairns to Brisbane road trip is a world-famous travel journey; and this itinerary takes you through all of the best!

Suggested time frame – 3-4 days

Cairns is a backpacker hotspot, with many travellers to Australia beginning their trips here – which makes it the perfect place to start your Cairns to Brisbane drive.

The tropical city is a great place to accustom to Australian lifestyle and a few days can easily be passed chilling by the lagoon, dining at the many cafes and restaurants of the city and enjoying its nightlife scene.

However, amidst all of this hardcore relaxing, do save some time to venture to the outstandingly beautiful areas around the city.

Things to do in Cairns

• Cool down with a dip in the lagoon
• Dine and drink at the many establishments in the city
• Do a free fitness class on the esplanade
• Go on a tour of the Atherton Tablelands This area is a fantastic day trip from Cairns (although longer can be easily spent in the region) and includes gorgeous waterfalls , scenic lakes, outstanding lookouts and quirky towns. Take a self-drive trip or book a day tour.
• Do a Great Barrier Reef tour I went with Ocean Freedom, who are fantastic for first time divers. People who are not certified (I was one of the only two on my boat who were!) have the chance to dive with an instructor after a safety briefing. It’s a great chance for anyone who’s thinking about learning to dive but is unsure if it’s for them. If you are certified, you’ll likely get the chance to go an a semi-private dive – I got whisked away on a speedboat for my second dive which was just me and the instructor.

Great Barrier Reef Tours

Where to stay in cairns.

Which hostel to pick in Cairns largely depends on how much you want to party. Cairns City Backpackers is pretty chilled out, with a BYO alcohol policy and quiet time late at night. It’s set in tranquil, rainforest-like setting and is a bargain price for a smaller dorm room. Click here for more information and to book .

If you do want to party, then there’s only one real option; the infamous Gilligans. Some people love it, some people hate it, but it’s without a doubt one of the busiest, loudest and most raucous hostel in Cairns.

It’s spread out over four levels, with amazing facilities such as free airport pick up, free WiFi and a lagoon swimming pool, and has an entertainment venue with bars and clubs within the hostel. They also offer cheap dorm rates and $5 dinners with free drinks. Click here for more information and to book .

There aren’t any free camping options within the city itself, but some in the local area. There are also a few paid campsites in and around the city. Drive north to Daintree National Park – 1 hour OR take a tour from Cairns

The Daintree Rainforest

Suggested time – 1-2 days

The Daintree can be done in a day trip from Cairns, but I think it’s worthy of a section all of its own. It’s a huge national park north of the city, with a tarmac road driving straight through the thick of the rainforest; and every so often, you’ll get a glimpse of the sea, which the road runs directly parallel to.

This is exactly why the ‘rainforest meets reef’ slogan of Far North Queensland was invented. There are short walks, cultural experiences, croc spotting cruises and four wheel drive tracks to be enjoyed within the breathtaking national park.

Things to do in the Daintree National Park

• Hike through the rainforest and around the beautiful Mossman Gorge
• Explore the Daintree tea plantation
• Have a picnic overlooking the beautiful Cow Bay
• Walk through the jungle at the Jindalba Boardwalk, Dubuji Boardwalk and Kulki Boardwalk
• Take on the challenging Mount Sorrow hike
• Enjoy the ‘reef meets rainforest’ vistas of Cape Tribulation beach
• Go croc spotting at Daintree River
• Check out the gorgeous Emmagen Creek at the start of the Bloomfield Track
• If you have a 4WD vehicle, drive the Bloomfield Track; an unsealed road heading north to Cooktown

Daintree National Park Tours

Don’t have your own vehicle? There’s plenty of tours from Cairns to the Daintree National Park.

From Daintree National Park, drive 23 minutes/ 23.5 km south to Port Douglas. If you are on a tour, some also stop in Port Douglas.

Port Douglas

Between Cairns and Daintree National Park is Port Douglas, a hip town which has luxury restaurants, quirky cafes and a busy backpacker scene.

It’s a fun place to pop in for an afternoon or spend a couple of days in; depending on how much time you have! I know a few people who have lived and worked in the town as well.

Things to do in Port Douglas

• Browse the beachside Sunday markets for tasty food and arty souvenirs
• Drive or hike up to the top of Flagstaff Hill for a spectacular lookout over the town and four mile beach
• Sample coffee at the various cafes of the town
• Laze back on the gorgeous four mile beach

Where to stay in Port Douglas

If you’re after a bustling backpacker scene, Dougies is located just 300 metres from the beach and is fully equipped with everything you could want in a hostel in the tropics; an outdoor pool and barbecue, a bar and free parking. Choose from a 4 or 7 bed dorm or a private room and bathroom.

For rates and to book, click here . From Port Douglas, drive south back through Cairns, which takes 1 hour 5 minutes. Or return to Cairns on your tour!

The Port Douglas to Cairns drive is known as ‘Far North Queensland’s Great Ocean Road’ and the views of vibrant green rainforest bordering onto turquoise blue ocean are nothing short of spectacular. It’s one of my favourite drives in Australia (and I’ve drove around nearly all of it!) so take your time and stop off at as many viewpoints as possible. Either stay another night in Cairns, or begin your journey south to Innisfail and Mission Beach

Drive or catch a coach from Cairns to Innisfail, which is a distance of 88 kilometres and takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. 

Suggested time – 1 day

Known by many to be ‘the place where everyone does farm work’, many road trippers whizz past Innisfail. But there’s lots to do in and around the town to pass a day or more; so if you have time on your East Coast Australia itinerary, be sure to check this beautiful town out!

Things to do in Innisfail

• Check out Josephine Falls, located between Cairns and Innisfail
• Stroll around the town and enjoy the art deco architecture, which has bene in place since 1918
• Sunbathe on the gorgeous sands of Etty Bay – and watch out for cassowaries!
• Explore the rainforest from the Mamu Tropical Skywalk

Drive or take the coach from Innisfail to Mission Beach, which takes 40 minutes and is 52 kilometres in distance.

Mission Beach

Suggested time – 2-3 days

Mission Beach isn’t on every Tropical North Queensland itinerary, but it damn well should be – it’s one of my favourite parts of the east coast. The beaches here are absolutely mesmerising – when I walked down to my first I actually let out a little yelp of joy.

There’s a variety of walking trails through the rainforest region, opportunities to spot cassowaries (we didn’t see any, boo), some absolutely delightful cafes and restaurants, and, as the name suggests, kilometre after kilometre of gorgeous beachfront.

If I could get an ‘I HEART MISSION BEACH’ t-shirt, I would.

Things to do in Mission Beach

• Hike up to Bicton Hill for a stunning view
• Laze on 14 kilometres of beaches – but remember to use the stinger nets from October to May!
• Eat at the quirky Bingil Bay Café
• Take a water taxi to Dunk Island and do some of the walk tracks and marvel at the beaches there
• Go scuba diving – the Great Barrier Reef stretches along most of Tropical North Queensland including all of Mission Beach

Accommodation in Mission Beach

If you’re looking for accomodation to relax and unwind in for a few days, Jackaroo Hostel is just the place. The treehouse-style hostel is set in beautiful grounds with a spectacular view, and just being there basically screams zen. Choose from a 6 bed dorm room or a private double room, all which come with included breakfast. For rates and to book, click here . Drive south 2 hours 48 minutes, which is 235 kilometres, or take the coach to Townsville.

On the Bruce Highway, I’d recommend taking a pit stop at the Frosty Mango restaurant, an eatery that serves all things mango, including delicious dairy-free ice cream. There’s also a huge mango outside (if you don’t know already, Australia loves its huge things) to snap a picture with!

Suggested time – 2 days

Townsville, ‘the capital of Northern Queensland’ is the gateway to Magnetic Island.

But there’s plenty within Townsville to occupy a day or two too, so before you hop over to the paradise that is Maggie Island, take some time to explore what Tropical North Queensland’s largest city has to offer.

Things to do in Townsville

• Learn about wildlife in Tropical North Queensland, the history of scuba diving, ancient shipwrecks and more at the Museum of North Queensland
• Learn about the region’s history at the Herbert River Museum
• Visit the historic Old Brandon Church
• Enjoy the bars and restaurants of the city
• Walk around the picturesque marina

Accommodation in Townsville

Rambutan YHA is a popular backpacker hangout, located in the centre of the city. It doesn’t cut any corners, with facilties such as a rooftop pool, outdoor bar and restaurant and $10 dinner specials. Choose from a 5, 6 or 8 bed dorm or private rooms in different sizes.

Click here for rates and to book .

Take the ferry over to Magnetic Island, which is a 20 minute journey, costing around $19 per person.

Magnetic Island

A pure slice of paradise, Magnetic Island is worlds away from the city of Townsville.

The entire island seems to run at its own time, with a chilled-out pace that it seems you could only find within a certain number of degrees to the equator.

On Magnetic Island, there are historical walks, climbs to hidden beaches, snorkelling, safe swimming spots, and amazing sunset viewing areas… or there’s the chance to get very merry on cocktails and general island life and spend the day lazing in a hammock. The choice is yours.

Things to do on Magnetic Island

• Take the forts walk to learn about the wartime history of the island and spot koalas
• Go snorkelling at Geoffery Bay – you can pick up a self guided snorkelling tour from the visitors centre for $5
• Hike to Balding Bay (which is Maggie’s unofficial nudist beach, FYI) or Radical Bay, both beautiful spots that are much quieter than the main beach!
• Go for a dip in Nelly Bay’s stinger net
• Discover more of the island’s history at the Magnetic Island History and Crafts Centre
• Catch an amazing sunset at one of the many spots around the island

Where to stay on Magnetic Island

The home of Australia’s only full moon party, Base Backpackers is set in stunning surroundings and enjoys a bar, BBQ facilities and a swimming pool. The bar hosts themed nights and activities.

For rates and to book, click here .

From Magnetic Island, take the ferry back over to Townsville and start heading south. Drive from Townsville to Bowen, which is around 2 hour 20 minutes and 202 kilometres, or take a southbound bus.

Suggested time – stopover/ half a day

Although some people stop to do their farm work in Bowen, for many it’s not really much more than a quick pit stop. But the laid back town vibes, beautiful beaches and hikes to impressive lookouts do make it a worthwhile stopover on a southern drive!

Things to do in Bowen

• Check out some of the eight amazing beaches that make up the area around Bowen
• Learn about the tropical town at the Bowen Historical Musuem
• Take a ferry over to Stone Island
• Check out Horseshoe Bay from the Rotary Lookout
• Snap a photo with yet another big mango!

Drive from Bowen to Airlie Beach, which is about 77 kilometres and takes around 58 minutes, or hop on a coach. 

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is somewhere you’ll constantly hear about as you’re travelling down the East Coast of Australia – and it is definitely a backpacker hub.

The town is catered for tourists, but if you’re looking for somewhere for a cheap dinner, a couple (dozen, maybe) beers and to meet some new travel mates, Airlie is your go to. Most people who are at Airlie Beach are coming off a Whitsundays tour, or about to get onto a boat. But there are a few things to do in the town itself.

Things to do in Airlie Beach

• Take a dip in the refreshing Airlie Beach Lagoon
• Browse the markets, which are held every Saturday
• Check out the gorgeous Cedar Creek Falls, located en route to Proserpine
• Visit the rainforest Conway National Park and go hiking

Where to stay in Airlie Beach

Nomads pretty much dominates the backpacker accommodation in Airlie Beach, and it’s easy to see why. The establishment is half hostel half campsite, with options for any type of backpacker.

The entire hostel is al-fresco based and as well as the standard amenities (kitchen, laundry, chill out area etc), it enjoys two bars, a swimming pool and free wifi. For rates and to book, click here .

The Whitsunday Islands

Suggested time – 3 days

The Whitsunday Islands are one of the ‘must see’ Australian odysseys that make the east coast famous. It’s vital to include visiting the islands in your east coast Australia road trip itinerary, and I’d advise doing the full 3 day 2 night tour to get the full experience.

I went with Wings , who offer a chilled out, sociable atmosphere with stop offs to all of the most beautiful spots of the islands. Also included was:

• SO MUCH FOOD including buffet-style meals, snacks every time any of us got a twinge of hunger, and tea and coffee. They catered for dietary preferences really well and even let the special diets have first choice, which gave me yet another reason to love vegetarianism!
• A shared cabin-style dorm – I slept in a little cubby hole, but it was pretty cosy!
• All the snorkelling gear and four stops to see some of the best marine life in the area
• A guided walk to Whitehaven Beach and to a look out
• Slideshows of photos in the evening
• Friendly, knowledgeable staff

Alcohol was brought on a BYO term. The boat isn’t an in-your-face party kind of boat, but a few of us got very merry on beer/ goon in the evenings.

If you want an in-your-face party style boat, I’d go with Clipper .

This isn’t the boat to choose if you want a good night’s sleep – but it’s hugely popular with travellers on the east coast! (it does also have a huge inflatable slide which looks awesome).

And if you’re looking for a bit more luxury, Ride to Paradise offers the same style tour, but instead of the boat, stays in luxury accommodation. There are dozens more Whitsundays tours, so if none of those take your fancy don’t fret – you’ll almost certainly find a great tour for you.

Whitsundays Tours

Your Whitsundays boat tour will take you back to Airlie Beach. Spend another night there, if you wish (there will most likely be an after party!), or head straight back to the road. Coaches leave Airlie Beach to Mackay, or drive the distance – just under 2 hours and 150 kilometres. 

I had a fantastic time in Mackay, although I didn’t do much other than get a subway (a sandwich, not an underground train). I’ve never felt so immediately welcomed into a city – at first, I thought everyone knew each other, but when they all greeted me with equal cordiality, I realised that people in Mackay are actually just that friendly.

Mackay is a launching point for the southern Great Barrier Reef and is home to some fantastic parks to the north and the west.

Within the town, there are lookouts, great food, lagoons and cycling trails. It’s a tropical city that’s worth a spot on your East Coast Australia itinerary.

Things to do in Mackay

• Cycle on the Bluewater Trail
• Take a dip in the Bluewater Lagoon
• Visit Lambert’s Lookout for a Pacific view
• Explore a sugar cane mill
• Camp with kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough
• Go hiking and platypus spotting at rainforest-based Eungella National Park

Take a coach or drive the distance to Rockhampton, which is 3 hours 40 minutes and 336 kilometres. 

Rockhampton

Suggested time – 1 day When I told a few people I was adding Rockhampton to my east coast Australia road trip itinerary, they laughed and said there was nothing there. I then looked up the best things to do in Rockhampton – and discovered that 5/9 revolved around the beef industry – not exactly a vegetarian’s dream. But, dig a little deeper and there’s some great things to do in Rocky that don’t involve meat of any kind.

Things to do in Rockhampton

• Visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre which tells significant stories of the state and country’s Aboriginal population and their Dreamtime stories which is the basis for their culture
• Catch the sunset over Mount Archer
• Cross over the tropics at the Tropic of Capricorn Spire
• Explore Quay Street and marvel at the historic, opulent buildings
• Admire the works at the Rockhampton Art Gallery

Take a coach to Agnes Water, or drive the 2 hour 30 minutes, 225 kilometre journey.

Agnes Water/ 1770

A lot of people just stop in Agnes Water for a break up between the long bus between Airlie Beach and Rainbow Beach (although hopefully I’ve convinced you to make a few extra stops along the way too!).

But the surf town is a cool place to hang out for a few days. If you aren’t pushed for time on your Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary, take the chance to kick back on the beach for a few.

Things to do in Agnes Water/ 1770

• Take a surf lesson for either $17.70 or $25 (I chose the $25 option, which is allegedly better – saying that, I chose it because it was the only one running in the afternoon. But I definitely felt like I got more than my money’s worth).
• Do the Scooteroo tour – the tour takes you around the twin towns on scooters that are made out to look like huge badass motorbikes. I didn’t do it, but it looks like a lot of fun!
• Check out some of the local national parks, such as Eurimbula, which has breathtaking coastline, 4WD tracks and scenic sunset spots.

Tours Around Agnes Water

Where to stay in agnes water/ 1770.

Southern Cross Backpackers is a super chilled out hostel with a variety of accommodation options – there’s a campsite that you can drive onto, or dorms.

Set in beautiful subtropical grounds, the hostel has a pool and a great chill out/ bar area. But the best thing about this hostel is that it has a really nice community feel, with staff who take the time to get to know and help you out and encourage guests to socialise. It’s not a mad party hostel, but rather one where you can enjoy a few beers of an evening with like minded travellers.

For rates and to book, click here . Journey to Rainbow Beach by driving 3 hours 40 minutes and 322 kilometres, or taking a coach.

Rainbow Beach

Suggested time – 1 day Rainbow Beach is a tiny little town (if you can call it a town!) nestled between Agnes Water and the Sunshine Coast. It’s an ever popular backpacker destination because… here is where you go on your Fraser Island tour. But Rainbow Beach is lots of fun too – kick back here for a couple of days if you have the chance.

Things to do in Rainbow Beach

• Sandboarding at Carlo Sand Blow
• Surfing and sunbathing at Double Island Point
• Driving around the gorgeous Great Sandy National Park

If you’re booking on a Fraser Island tour, you’ll need to be at the safety briefing for 6pm the day before. This means staying at least one night in Rainbow Beach – and it’s a good idea to book for the day after too, so you’re not rushing after your tour and have some time for drinks with your group!

Where to stay in Rainbow Beach

Dingos is one of the only hostels in Rainbow Beach, but it’s ran so well that there’s really no need for any competition. It’s outside-based, with two fun bars often featuring live music, $7 dinners every night and free vegan pancakes for breakfast each morning.

Choose from a hostel dorm room or sleep in your car or campervan for just $10.

Fraser Island

For Fraser Island you have two options. If you have a four wheel drive vehicle with a large clearance, 4WD knowledge, are sure that your car won’t break down on the island, good car knowledge in general and a sense of adventure then go ahead, do a self-guided tour of the island.

If you don’t (the only criteria of these I really met was a sense of adventure – unless I can count hair-raisingly navigating down the Gibb River Road in Western Australia as 4WD knowledge?) then the best thing is to book a tour.

I went with Dingos – who are ran by the same people as Dingos hostel – and highly recommend them. The tour involves four 4WD vehicles drove on a ‘tag along’ basis – so everyone who has a licence and is 21+ gets a chance to drive the cars.

The tour definitely burns the candle at both ends – so if you want to drive first thing in the morning you really have to limit the drinking the night before. There’s video footage of me on night two, dancing around a gazebo with a bag of goon. Needless to say I was not on the list of designated drivers the following morning.

Dingos Tours: What Do They Include?

• Knowledgeable and friendly guides
• Three meals a day – if you have any dietary requirements just state at the time of booking and they will provide an altered meal plan
• Use of the 4WD vehicle for three days
• Ferry crossing to Fraser Island
• Campsite accommodation

Now, I’m never really a huge fan of tours – I much prefer hitting the open road with my own car and stopping wherever I want to, for however long I desire. But for Fraser it is kind of a necessity, and it’s a great place to meet new people.

Highlights of Fraser Island

• The brilliantly blue Lake Mackenzie
• 4WD – ing through the subtropical rainforest
• Being drifted away in Eli Creek, a natural lazy river
• The spectacular Champagne Pools
• Gazing over the island from Indian Head lookout
• Drinking (and dancing with) goon back at the campsite. Backpackers eh…

Other Fraser Island Tours

Return back to Rainbow Beach with the tour – you’ll probably want to stay another night at Dingos.  The next day, drive 1 hour 40 minutes, 134 kilometres to Noosa Heads or jump on a coach.

Noosa and the Sunshine Coast

Noosa is a charming town nestled in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. It’s loved by backpackers and locals alike, because of its beautiful surroundings and bustling atmosphere.

Things to do in Noosa

• Exploring the coastal and inland tracks of Noosa National Park – which is very easily accessible from the town, even if you don’t have a car
• Lazing, BBQing or swimming on one of the town’s many beaches
• Café hopping and seeing who really does the best soy cappuccino in Noosa
• Similarly, check out every breakfast spot in town (warning: you’ll need a huge appetite or a few days)
• Climb up Mount Tinbeerwah for amazing panoramic views of the whole coastline
• Go on a kayak tour of Noosa Everglades
• Go stand up paddleboarding in Little Cove

Where to stay in Noosa

Nomads Noosa is located right in the heart of town, making all of Noosa’s main attractions easily accessible. There’s options to play beach volleyball or pool and drink at the on site bar. Choose from 8, 10 and 16 bed dorms and click here for rates and to book today . Trav el 141 kilometres, 1 hour 45 minutes, to Brisbane.

You’ve reached the big city!! I was most excited to get to Brisbane because it meant I could go to LUSH and stock up on shampoo bars, but there are lots of other things to do in Brissy too.

The city has a certain air of glitz and glamour about it, and within Brisbane, there are some great museums, fantastic restaurants and bars, a bridge climb and city beaches.

Things to do in Brisbane

• Visit the museum of Queensland and learn all about the state you’ve just been exploring
• Explore the world of contemporary art at Queensland Gallery of Modern Art
• Rent a bike and ride around the city and its ‘burbs
• Take a Kookaburra River Queens cruise – which use old style paddlewheel vessels – around Brisbane’s river, taking in the city’s attractions.
• Go shipwreck diving at Moreton Island
• Climb the city’s Story Bridge and get impressive views of the entire cityscape
• Enjoy all sorts of artwork at Queensland Art Gallery
• Visit South Bank Parklands and laze away a hot Brissy day at one of the city beaches
• Go on a whale watching tour (seasonal) to see humpback whales travel from the Antarctic to Queensland’s more mild waters

Note – one of the most popular Brisbane attractions is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

I’ve omitted it off this list because I don’t think that any institution, sanctuary or not, is ethical if it allows you to hold a wild animal who normally likes its space. If you can hold it, it has likely been unnaturally domesticized. If you want to see koalas, head to Magnetic Island or the Great Ocean Road where there are plenty in their natural habitat.

Where to stay in Brisbane

Brisbane City Backpackers is a friendly, well-equipped hostel with a bar and a roof terrace that boasts a fantastic view of the city’s skyline. Many people choose to stay in the hostel while working, but it’s equally welcoming to short-term visitors.

The on-site bar stands out for its $10 dinner options every night and fantastic drink deals. The atmosphere here encourages a party mood, but if you’re seeking a more relaxed experience or recovering from dancing with a bag of goon on Fraser Island (like me), getting a good night’s sleep is easy. The staff are always ready to offer helpful daytime activity recommendations.

One notable perk is the availability of free parking, a rare find in the heart of Brisbane.

Brisbane to Sydney Drive Itinerary

  You still with me? The Cairns to Brisbane drive itinerary was the longest chunk of your trip – but that’s not to say that the next two segments aren’t just as epic. If you’re venturing south of Brisbane, let me show you the very best spots to visit on this Brisbane to Sydney drive! Drive 1 hour, 78 kilometres, to reach Surfers Paradise. You can also jump on a Greyhound to do the distance, or take local buses and trains.

  If Australia was a cupboard of condiments, Gold Coast would definitely be marmite – you either love it or you hate it. (it wouldn’t be Vegemite, Australia’s answer to Marmite, because every Aussie young or old loves it).

Gold Coast is home to lots of beaches, plenty of good surf, parties until 6am and high rise buildings. The centre of the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise, which is where most of the backpacker hangouts are.

Things to do in Surfers Paradise

• Go out – it’s what the city built its popularity on. Surfers Paradise has all night parties, day sessions, boozy BBQs – you name it
• Believe it or not, it’s a popular destination for surfing – although the waves definitely seem for the more advanced, there’s some spots that are great for beginners too
• Go to the all-vegan Lord of the Fries. These burger stalls are all over Melbourne and Sydney, but I think the Surfers Paradise joint was the first to be completely vegan. It mainly serves mock meat, which was a bit strange to eat – but it’s tasty comfort food and it saves animals and the world
• Check out views of the city from the Sky Point Observation Deck
• Head to Infinity, which is a house of optical illusions and a fantastic place to spend a rainy day!
• Browse the beachfront markets on a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night
• Check out some more free things to do on the Gold Coast here .

Pssst… I’ll let you in on a little secret. If you’re after a lively backpacker scene and crazy parties, stick to Surfers. BUT there’s lots of quieter beaches in the Gold Coast that are amazing for a more chilled out holiday; make sure you visit some of these hidden gems on your Brisbane to Sydney drive!

Other beaches on the Gold Coast

• Burleigh Heads
• Coolangatta
• Kirra Point
• Mermaid Beach

Check out this Gold Coast Beaches Guide for some more information about alternative beaches.

Where to stay in Surfers Paradise

A well-facilitated hostel that’s perfect for both chill and party, BUNK is centrally located, with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. The hostel offers free breakfast, and each dorm has ‘privacy pods’ with individual lights and power sockets. However, if you want to socialise, there’s plenty of areas perfect for meeting new travel mates.

Drive 1 hour 2 minutes and 78 kilometres from Surfers Paradise to Mullumbimby. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast, you’ll need to fast track straight to Byron Bay.

Queensland/ New South Wales Border

Crossing over into New South Wales from Queensland is pretty uneventful – if you’ve ever crossed into Western Australia, you’ll know how painful border crossings can be!

You’re not too far from Byron Bay, one of the best places on the planet in my humble opinion , but there are a few gorgeous spots that are worth visiting before you reach the hippy town.

Mullimbimby

Suggested time – stopover Slightly inland is the charming town of Mullimbimby – which many regard to be ‘Byron Bay 20 years ago’. It’s one of those towns where great pleasure can be had just by strolling around.

Things to do in Mullimbimby

• Stroll around the Mullimbimby Community Garden
• Check out the local Rainforest Walk
• Enjoy the markets – Mullum Community Market runs on the 3 rd Saturday of every month and the Mullum Farmers Market is every Friday 7-11am
• Check out some of the charismatic cafes
• Stroll around the murals painted by local artists
• Attend a yoga or pilates class or unwind at the day spa

Drive 10 minutes or 7.7 kilometres (yes, that’s it!) to Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads

Suggested time – stopover

Photo via Flickr by Richard Rydge Heading out to the coast from Mullimbimby is the tranquil Brunswick Heads, home to bushland opening out onto serene beaches.

Things to do in Brunswick Heads

• Canoe, birdwatch or hike in the Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve
• Catch a surf on the local beach
• Jump from the old wooden bridge into the clear river (at high tide!)
• Enjoy the vistas of the bush opening out to beach
• Go stand up paddleboarding at Torakina Beach

Drive 18 minutes or 18 kilometres to Byron Bay

Suggested time – 3-4 days

Ahhh… Byron Bay. My second home and the only place in 18 months of travelling that could persuade me to stay longer than a month. I actually lived in Byron Bay, in a tent, for five beautiful months and I would go back in a heartbeat. There’s lots of reasons why so many people fall in love with beautiful Byron Bay, and it will no doubt be a highlight on your Brisbane to Sydney drive.

Here’s why it changed my life . I’d recommend staying in Byron Bay for as long as possible – but if you only have a few days, here’s the highlights.

Things to do in Byron Bay

• Walk up to the lighthouse
• Catch a wave at The Pass
• Go scuba diving at Julian Rocks
• Catch some live music at The Rails or the Northern
• Watch the sunset while dancing away at the drum circle
• Watch some of the amazing entertainers (often fire spinners or buskers) at Main Beach
• Catch the Arts Factory’s talent show

I genuinely feel a pang in my heart while writing about Byron Bay – I miss it every day.

Byron Bay Tours

Where to stay in byron bay.

There’s no better place to stay at in Byron Bay than The Arts Factory.

Spreading out over 5 acres of gorgeous grounds, The Arts Factory is less of a hostel and more of an experience.

It’s got a name as a bit of a hippie hangout, and it definitely attracts the free-spirited and artistic – but really, there’s something for everyone at the Arts Factory.

Enjoy didgeridoo lessons, yoga classes, bush walks, the weekly talent show, and more at the Arts Factory, while staying in one of their dorms, private rooms, or even on the attached campsite, which is affectionately known as ‘The Jungle’.

I lived here for five months and couldn’t get enough of it.

The Hinterland of Byron Bay

Byron Bay’s famous for its beaches, but don’t forget to check out its amazing hinterland too. Home to waterfalls, national parks, forests and quirky towns, there’s something kind of magical about the Byron Bay hinterland.

Things to do in Byron Bay’s Hinterland

• Eat locally sourced food in Newrybar’s Harvest restaurant
• Head to Nimbin, which is possibly the hippiest town in Australia. Enjoy the laidback, organic lifestyle of the town and stock up on some erm… treats… if you’re into that kind of thing!
• Hike to the top of Mount Warning to be the first in mainland Australia to see the sun rise
• Walk to the base of the spectacular Minyon Falls
• Stroll through rainforest of the Nightcap National Park to the gorgeous Protestor Falls
• Have a swim in the plunge pool of Killen Falls

Drive 1 hour 40 minutes, 126 kilometres from Byron Bay to Yamba, or catch a coach heading south

Yamba is a sleepy little coastal town with lots of natural beauty and attractions. While it’s not the most visited town on the east coast by any means, it’s gaining popularity with backpackers and travellers doing the Brisbane to Sydney drive.

Things to do in Yamba

• Go surfing at the many beaches
• Bask in the stunning natural beauty of the Angourie Blue and Green Pools
• Take the Angourie Walking Track along the stunning coastline
• Enjoy the vista with a picnic at the Yamba Lighthouse
• Do ‘Shane’s 10 buck tour’ which takes you around the town, telling you its stories in the tour operator’s own wicked humour

Where to stay in Yamba

Yamba YHA Backpacker Beach Resort is located right in the centre of town, and has the option of dorms or private rooms with en suite bathrooms. There’s an on site café and bar, BBQ facilities and free parking, and the hostel is where the famous ‘Shane’s Tour’ begins. For rates and to book, click here .

Catch a coach heading toward Coffs Harbour, or drive the 1 hour 38 minutes, 138 kilometre distance

Coffs Harbour

Photo by Andrea Schaffer via Flickr   Famed mainly for ‘The Big Banana’, there are some other attractions in Coffs Harbour that aren’t big fruit. Some of the best attractions are coastal, but my favourite bit of Coffs is its hinterland.

Things to do in Coffs Harbour and the surroundings

• The gorgeous waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park
• The Big Banana’s waterslides and activities
• Koala spotting in Bongil Bongil National Park
• Visit the rugged Muttonbird Island
• Admire the boats at the marina and jetty

Drive 27 minutes, 34 kilometres, sout-eastwards from Coffs Harbour to Bellingen. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast, you’ll need to skip this part and head straight to Port Macquarie. 

Bellingen is a wonderful little country town; I was there just after same-sex marriage was passed in Australia, and was uplifted by all the banners and signs throughout the town expressing their joy at equality.

Pair this with stunning buildings and fantastic cafes set in the most picturesque setting, and you’ve got yourself a perfect little town.

Drive westwards from Bellingen toward Armidale. It’s 155 kilometres, and would take around 2 hours with no stops – but let’s face it, you’ll be stopping a lot. 

The Waterfall Way

The Waterfall Way has some of the most scenic falls in the country. It’s a 185 kilometre road traversing no less than five national parks.

Waterfalls along the way

• Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Skywalk Lookout
• Crystal Shower Falls
• Tristina Falls
• Dangar Falls
• Wollombi Falls
• Chandler Falls
• Red Cedar Falls (which a difficult 8km hike is necessary to reach – but definitely head there if you have the time!)  

From Armidale, travel down the Oxley Highway to reach Port Macquarie. At a distance of 250 kilometres, it’s just over 3 hours of driving.

Port Macquarie

Whether you head back out to the coast via the Waterfall Way return route or head south in the hinterland, you’ll eventually find your way to the Central NSW town of Port Macquarie. Famed for its stunning beaches, this town has a lovely laid back atmosphere and plenty to pass a few days.

Things to do in Port Macquarie

• Check out the artistically painted rocks along the breakwall
• Check out a sunrise or sunset on the many beaches
• Grab a beer and watch the waves at the Beach House
• Walk the 9km coastal walk which traverses most of the town’s beaches
• Visit the ‘brothers’ and drive to the summit of the North Brother mountain, which offers spectacular views of the local area

Head 244 kilometres south to Newcastle, which should take you about 2 hours 10 minutes. Or hop on a coach heading in the same direction.

Suggested time – 1 day Just two hours north of Sydney, Newcastle is a buzzing town basking in scenic surroundings. Head to Newcastle to check out the coastal national parks and the charming atmosphere of the city itself.

Things to do in Newcastle

• Glenrock State Conservation Area
• Minmi Cemetary Walk, which tells some of the tales of the coal mining boom
• Enjoy the vistas of Nobbys Beach and the city’s lighthouse
• Visit the Newcastle Museum to learn more about the surrounding area’s history
• See some local art at the Newcastle Art Gallery  
• Go to the nearby Port Stephens and do the Tomaree Head Summit Walk .

From Newcastle, head to Palm Beach, which is a 173 kilometre or 2 hour 16 minute drive. If you are taking the coaches, you’ll need to head straight to Sydney.

Photo by Suzanne via Flickr You’re technically in Sydney’s northern beaches now! Palm Beach was made famous for being the setting of Home and Away, but there’s plenty to enjoy within the vicinity for not-so-big fans of the Aussie soap.

Things to do in Palm Beach

• Take in a great view from Barrenjoey Lighthouse
• Go paddleboarding from the beach
• Walk around the Home and Away set
• Dine at some of New South Wales’ classiest eateries  

Drive 43 minutes, 30 kilometres, along the side of the Pacific Ocean towards Manly, one of Sydney’s northern suburbs.

Manly  

I’m really dragging out this entrance to Sydney, aren’t I? You’re almost there – well, you’re technically there – Manly is and isn’t part of Sydney. It’s only a ferry ride to Darling Harbour, but the beaches and community atmosphere of the suburb make it an entity of its own. Many backpackers choose to stay, work and live in Manly over Sydney ‘proper’, and there’s plenty of draws to this part of the city.

Things to do in Manly

• Visit the resident penguins at Collins Beach
• Have a BBQ and catch the sunset at Shelley Beach
• Do the 9km North Head Sanctuary loop walk from Shelley Beach, which will give you fantastic views of Sydney Harbour and wildlife spotting opportunities
• Walk along the northern beaches via the Manly to Split walk
• Check out the bustling markets of the town

Where to stay in Manly

If you don’t fancy staying in Sydney proper, check out Manly Bunkhouse, which boasts en suite dorms and rooms, communal areas, central location and outdoor spaces. Click here to find out more . Take the ferry over to Sydney Central, which costs $15 – or $2.60 if you are going on a Sunday! Or drive the 18 kilometre distance, which should take about 30 minutes (traffic dependent). 

Suggested time – 4 days You made it! Congratulations on reaching Australia’s largest city. Sydney’s definitely a bucket list city that every keen traveller should visit at least once in their lifetime. Although it’s not my favourite place in Australia, it was the first part of Australia I ever went to and that makes it very special for me.

Things to do in Sydney

• Walk around the iconic Opera House
• Stroll through the beautiful botanic gardens, right by the harbour
• Walk to Mrs Macquarie’s Seat and snap a great picture of the Opera House
• Head to the Australian Museum to learn all about this weird and wonderful country
• Explore the funky suburbs such as Newtown
• Brunch in the upmarket Surry Hills
• Head to the Eastern Beaches; admire the outdoor pool at Bondi and complete the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
• Go to the NSW Royal National Park to check out sights like the Figure 8 Pools and Wedding Cake Rock
• Check out this local’s guide to Sydney for more ideas

Sydney Tours

Where to stay in sydney.

Where you decide to stay in Sydney largely depends on what kind of scene you’re after; whether you want to enjoy the fast-paced life of the CBD, one of its quirky suburbs or chill out on Bondi Beach.

If you’re after a stay in Central Sydney, Railway Square YHA is a hostel with a difference – half of it is located in disused railway cabins! It also offers cheap breakfasts, excellent facilities and great events. For more information and to book, click here .

Sydney to Melbourne Drive Itinerary

So many people fast track from Sydney straight to Melbourne, and I think it’s such a shame. This area of the country is spectacular, with amazing coastline, unique national parks and quirky townships. Take some time for your Sydney to Melbourne drive; to explore a little of southern New South Wales and eastern Victoria, and I promise you won’t regret it!

The Blue Mountains

Suggested time – 2-3 days To reach the Blue Mountains, drive 55 minutes or 62 kilometres from Sydney to reach the edge of the National Park. It’s an extra 30 minutes/ 40 kilometres to reach the three sisters, the most prominent landmark in the park. Alternatively, you can take the train to the national park from Sydney Central.

I’m sending you on a little detour here, but it’s well worth it. The Blue Mountains are located 62 kilometres west of Sydney, and they are nothing short of spectacular. If you’re taking the Greyhound down the coast, I’d really recommend renting a car, taking the train or taking a tour to this national park – it’s definitely an Australia must-see. Covered in eucalypt forests, the Blue Mountains are named so because of how the oil from the trees mixes with water vapour. They span over  11,400 km2 and encompasses hills, waterfalls, lookouts and spectacular panoramic vistas.

Things to do in the Blue Mountains

• Three Sisters Lookout, the most popular and iconic spot in the Blue Mountains
• Evans Lookout, my personal favourite
• Traverse some of the many tracks of the mountains
• Visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre

Psstt.. If you’re visiting the Blue Mountains on a day trip from Sydney, head there on a Sunday, when the train fare is just $2.60

Blue Mountain Tours

From Bathurst, which is located at the other end of the Blue Mountains National Park, drive 253 kilometres to Canberra, which should take you around 3 hours 13 minutes.  Alternatively you can reach Canberra by bus or train from Sydney Central.

Tell anyone you’re planning on a trip to Canberra on your east coast Australia road trip and their response will be ‘why’? Famed for its dullness, the capital of Australia isn’t the top spot on anyone’s itinerary. Why am I recommending you go there then? Well, for all my history and politics fans, there’s lots to do in Canberra if you’re interested in getting to know how Australia works and has worked in the past. And I think if you’re travelling in a country, these are things you have a duty to know. Canberra can be done in a day trip from Sydney – it’s a three hour drive to the city (just down the road, you know), or you can take a coach or train between cities. There is enough to keep you occupied for longer though – check out this post for some ideas of what to do in 2-3 days in Canberra . If you’re self driving down the east coast, you can head south-east from Canberra and then continue your Sydney to Melbourne drive via the coast.

Things to do in Canberra

• Visit the Parliament House and sit in on a question time (which is 2pm when the parliament is running)
• Walk around the Old Parliament House, home of the Museum of Australian Democracy
• See the Australian War Memorial
• Enjoy a sunset over Lake Burley Griffin
• See artwork at the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery
• Look out over the city from the top of Mount Ainslie

Check out this guide to Canberra for more ideas.

Where to stay in Canberra

A spacious hostel in the city centre, Canberra City YHA offers a swimming pool, sauna, rooftop terrace and an onsite bar and café. Choose from double, twin or dorm rooms and check here for rates and to book . From Canberra, drive 2 hours 55 minutes/ 222 kilometres eastwards to Jervis Bay. If you are taking public transport, taking a bus to Wollongong and then local transport south to Jervis Bay is an option.

Bladdy magical. That’s what Jervis Bay is. Three hours south of Sydney, it’s a spectacular beach with white-as-it-gets sand and the bluest of blue waters. If it’s hot on your visit, it’s a great place to have a beach day – or there are hiking trails and swimming spots to enjoy. Whatever the weather, it will no doubt be a highlight on your Sydney to Melbourne drive!

Things to do in Jervis Bay

• Have picnic at Greenfield Beach and enjoy the beautiful rockpools
• Take the White Sands Walk from Greenfield Beach along the bay
• Go on one of the walking tracks of Booderee National Park
• Walk the Abrahams Bosom Reserve which leads to some of the most secluded beaches in the area

From Jervis Bay, travel 1 hour 12 minutes or 87 kilometres to Ulladulla. If you are taking the coaches down the east coast of Australia, Premier serve this area of the country.

  Ulladulla

Suggested time – half a day

On your drive south, Ulladulla is worth a stop over on your Melbourne to Sydney coastal drive, mainly for the ‘one track for all’ walk which describes Aboriginal culture of the area, describing what happened when Europeans invaded and settled.   From Ulladulla, drive 50 minutes or 63 kilometres south to Mogo, or hop back on the Premier coach service.

Mogo is a quirky village that is really no more than a cluster of buildings on the side of the road, but it’s worth checking out to see some of the eccentric and arty shops, and admiring the treasures within each! From Mogo, drive 2 hours 20 minutes, 189 kilometres, to Eden, stopping in at some of the New South Wales state forests (many of which are also free campsites!) along the way.

New South Wales State Forests  

Suggested time – stopover or overnight stop

Away from the beach, New South Wales is home to some spectacular state forests. There are lots of free camping spots within these forests, each which contains walking trails and makes for a great leg stretch en route south. Look for signs to rest areas between Mogo and Eden; you’ll find information about local walking trails along this route.

Eden  

It’s scenic beaches all the way down now, and Eden is no exception. If you fancy lazing back on a beach, there’s plenty of those; or seek some adventure at one of the surrounding national parks.

Things to do in Eden

• Visit Woboyn Beaches – located on the shores of Disaster Bay! – to enjoy the spectacular oceanic vistas
• See the Ben Boyd National Park for 4WD tracks and short walks
• Enjoy the heritage of the town through the Heritage Walk or Heritage Drive

From Eden, head toward the New South Wales/ Victoria border and then drive to Lakes Entrance. Total driving time 2 hours 46 minutes distance 242 kilometres. If you’re taking public transport, transfer to a V Line coach to reach Lakes Entrance.

New South Wales/ Victoria Border

Just south of Eden is the New South Wales/ Victoria border, another unassuming crossing that only involves passing a sign.

Lakes Entrance  

A somewhat sizable town under 200kms from the NSW/ Victorian border, Lakes Entrance is a perfect mix of idyllic water, beautiful beaches and fascinating history. It’s a laid back kind of town which is perfect for holidaying, camping and unwinding. It’s also one of the most beautiful spots of the south coast, in my humble opinion!

Things to do in Lakes Entrance

• The Entrance to the Lakes walk which showcases some of the best natural scenery of the area
• Hire bikes and explore the town with two wheels
• Take an eco cruise to see some local marine life
• Explore the limestone formations of Buchan Caves Reserve  

From Lakes Entrance, drive 3 hours 34 minutes or 273 kilometres westwards towards Wilson’s Promontory. If you are taking public transport, it is easiest to travel from Lakes Entrance straight to Melbourne and organise day trips to Wilson’s Promontory and Phillip Island from there.

Wilson’s Promontory  

A national park bordering the beach, and the southernmost point of Australia, Wilson’s Promontory is a fantastic place to stop on a Victoria road trip.

The park is free to enter and explore, and includes hikes and beaches. Its   natural beauty makes it an essential stop on your Sydney to Melbourne drive.

Things to do in Wilson’s Promontory

• Walk to Sealers Cove, which is a 19 kilometre day walk
• Stay at Wilsons Promontory Lightstation
• See the world’s most southern mangroves
• Hike to the top of Mount Oberon
• Squeak around on the sands of Squeaky Beach  

Day Tour to Wilson’s Promontory

Drive just under 2 hours, 134 kilometres, to reach Phillip Island. The island is connected to Australian mainland by a 26 kilometre long bridge, so you don’t need to worry about ferry crossings!

Phillip Island

Located off the coast just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a great pit stop.

Famed for its wildlife, water sports and motor sports, there’s plenty of great reasons to visit Phillip Island if you’re not quite ready for big city life and the end of your east coast road trip.

Things to do on Phillip Island

• Surf from one of the many beaches
• See some of the spectacular wildlife, including penguins, seals and koalas
• Go go-karting and learn about the history of motor spots at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre
• Check out the crashing waves of Cape Woolami along the rugged coastline of the island

Phillip Island Tours

Drive 1 hour 50 minutes, which is 141 kilometres, from Phillip Island to Melbourne

Melbourne  

Suggested time – 4 days or more!

Bet you thought you’d never get there, right?

Nearly 3000 kms from Cairns – although if you’ve taken all of my suggested detours, you’ll have racked up a good few more kilometres – your arrival in Melbourne is a long time coming.

Melbourne is a vivacious, ever-changing city with a great community feel and upbeat spirit. It reminds me a lot of Bristol, my adopted hometown, and it has tons of amazing things to see and do.

Things to do in Melbourne

• Visit some of the amazing museums or galleries throughout the city
• Café hopping in funky Fitzroy or other suburbs
• Discover some literature gems at the State Library of Victoria (and of course snapping a photo of )
• Support  Melbourne’s most sustainable restaurant, Lentil as Anything
• Enjoy seaside vibes at St Kilda
• Watch the penguins at St Kilda
• Get lost in the other endless suburbs
• Catch a live music event at one of the many venues around the city
• Eat at some of the best restaurants in Melbourne
• Get out and exploring some of the surrounding towns and natural wonders. These include: the Grampians National Park, the Great Ocean Road, the city of Ballarat, the quirky town of Daylesford.
• If you’re not quite road tripped out yet, check out this Victoria road trip itinerary to see the best of the west of the state.

Where to stay in Melbourne  

For well-equipped accommodation at budget rates, there’s nowhere better than Urban Central. This busy hostel has lots going on, with cheap dinners, an on site bar and complimentary bike hire, rice, pasta, tea and coffee. The dorms are great for a good night’s shut eye; each bunk has its own light, a comfy mattress and a large locker with a power point inside each. For rates and to book, click here.

There are so many more things to do in Melbourne, and it’s a great place to set some roots down and live for some time. If you’re looking to find a job after your Cairns to Melbourne road trip, working a while in Victoria’s capital could be the answer!

East Coast Australia Tour

If you don’t fancy doing the whole trip by car or coach, guided tours from G Adventures travel the popular East Coast route. They’re a great company who have a sustainable influence with their tours. Click here to find out more.

Your ultimate Cairns to Melbourne road trip guide

If you’ve managed to read this Cairns to Melbourne road trip itinerary from beginning to end, I salute you – it’s one long post! But please do save it for later and check back – this is just the beginning of a series of posts on the East Coast of Australia. Expect destination specific hostel guides, packing lists, driving tips and example budgets online over the course of the next few weeks! Subscribe to never miss a post, or come and say hello over on Facebook !

Hey! I’m on YouTube too!

I’m currently travelling from Bali to London without taking a single flight! I’m documenting my journey on YouTube and would love it if you could follow me there! Here is a video detailing the journey a bit more:

Click here to go to my channel – I’d love it if you subscribed and joined the community! Thinking of exploring the rest of Australia? Please do, it’s awesome! I’ve written a few more handy guides like this one, which are perfect to put your wanderlust into action!

Related Posts

• Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
• Melbourne to Perth Drive Itinerary
• Perth to Broome Drive Itinerary
• Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary (via the Gibb River Road)
• Darwin to Adelaide Drive Itinerary
• Adelaide to Cairns Drive Itinerary (via the Inland Way)

If you’re yet to head to Australia, check out my packing list to make sure you’ve got everything and send your friends and relatives this Australia gift guide so they can get you a little something before you head off!

Finally, if you have a lot of questions, I now offer travel coaching! Here’s some more information about this service .

Disclosure: some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This is just one of the ways I keep this blog running!

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5 thoughts on “ East Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary and Ultimate Guide ”

Nice blog and great places to visit

Brilliant guide Claire, love the format and all the information you provide. Can I ask if you remember where the spot was from the photo you have of Eden in NSW? Looks amazing! (Not planning on visiting just yet thought due to the bushfires)

Hi Jake, thanks so much for your comment. the photo would have been from the Main Beach in the centre of town. Hopefully the bushfires get better soon there!

Hey, brilliant road trip Itinerary! We are halfway between our Cairns to Brisbane road trip and your post has been really helpful so thank you!

We will be going to Agnes water in a couple of days, can you tell me the company you did your afternoon surf lesson with please?

Thanks! Amber

Thanks for sharing the itinerary. Definitely gonna use this itinerary for my upcoming trip to East Coast Australia.

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Our Ultimate Guide To Plan A Road Trip In Australia

Are you planning a road trip in Australia? Are you crafting your most ideal Australia campervan itinerary? Not sure where to start?

No wonder. Australia is a huge and faraway land that’s likely very different from where you live. There’s so much to see (too much, it seems). Your Australia road trip might be a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

We’ve been there. We visited Australia on a three week campervan trip for the first time. Since then we moved to Sydney and continue exploring this vast country on road trips and camping trips. We are here to help you plan a road trip in Australia.

This post is your guide to road trip Australia, with lots of first-timer questions clarified, tons of tips and possible itinerary ideas.

Whatever you do, road trip Australia

The very first thing: Australia is one of those countries that are just meant for road trips and campervan trips (more on that debate later). It has cool cities, but it’s the landscapes that impress the most . We had the best wildlife experiences on the road, as well.

But beware, distances are long, so make sure you plan an Australian road trip itinerary that’s not all about being in the car and driving . If you want to see places that are very far from each other, it might be worth flying between them instead of driving.

The most important questions to consider when creating the best Australia road trip itinerary

You won’t see everything within a few weeks (even within a few months). We get it, Australia is a faraway dream destination, and you want to visit all the sights that are on your bucket list.

But Australia is almost as big as the continental USA, distances are long, and some regions are not that ideal to visit in certain seasons. So you need to set priorities, and plan a road trip itinerary that fits you the best and leaves time to actually enjoy the places you end up visiting.

Do you need help planning the best itinerary for your trip? Hire me as your personal travel planner.

Here are some questions to consider:

Which places interest you the most?

Do you want to spend time on beaches? Diving? Hiking? Observing wildlife? Do you want to visit cities? Most visitors typically want a combination of these.

Our opinion is that while Australian cities are attractive, they are no match for the natural beauties and wildlife in Australia . If you like visiting cities on your travels, don’t miss them. If you’re more nature-focused, dedicate a few days to the cities and spend the rest of your time in nature.

Bucket list destinations in Australia

Here are the typical bucket list items for each region – just in case you think your bucket list is too short:

East coast:

• Great Ocean Road
• Blue Mountains
• Royal National Park
• Whitsunday Islands
• Fraser Island
• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree National Park

Western Australia:

• beaches and ocean drive of Esperance
• Rottnest Island
• The Pinnacles
• Ningaloo Reef
• Karijini National Park

Southern Australia:

• Kangaroo Island
• Lake Bumbunga
• Limestone Coast & Blue Lake
• Eyre Peninsula
• Flinders Ranges

Northern Territory:

• Litchfield National Park
• Kakadu National Park
• Kings Canyon Rim Walk

And we missed out Tasmania – which is also Australia, yet a different world and countless more bucket list items.

When are you visiting?

Any time of the year can be good, but for different places.

Sydney and Brisbane are great destinations all year, tropical Queensland and the Northern Territory is best between April and October (Australian summer is the rainy season there, with floods and hurricanes), Victoria and Southern Australia is between October and April (Australian winter months are chilly there).

Western Australia is so large that it has several climates: the southwestern region has temperate climate with four seasons and rainy winters, the northern region is tropical with a wet and a dry season.

Christmas and Easter vacations are very busy, you better avoid them.

How much time do you have?

If you only have a few weeks, we recommend choosing between the east coast (Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland) or Western Australia. Maybe you can add a bit of the Northern Territory or Southern Australia to any of the two routes. Maybe, if you have 3+ weeks.

Car or campervan?

Let me ask the same question in a different way: would you sleep in your car, or do you prefer rooms with four walls? If you’d like to try out the campervan life, you couldn’t find a better place than Australia. That’s what we did, and we liked it very much!

But it’s not for everyone. You have a small living space (though you’ll likely spend most of your time outdoors), and you make compromises on comfort.

But an Australia campervan trip is the most flexible and most budget-friendly way to explore this country . It means countless free and paid options to spend the night, and also countless opportunities to see wildlife. Australia is safe, the highways and main roads are good, and it’s usually warm outside, so you don’t need to worry about heating.

However, the word “campervan” can cover a range of vehicles . From small converted mini-vans that are suitable for only two people to large family-sized motorhomes and RVs with full amenities. But all of them have two things in common: they are suitable for sleeping, and they offer some opportunity for cooking. Cooking supplies are often provided if you rent the campervan.

Campervans usually have two separate batteries: one runs the engine, and the other runs things like interior lights or a small refrigerator. So you don’t need to worry about the engine not starting the following day, because you keep the interior lights on for too long.

How to choose the campervan that’s suitable for you?

Let’s pretend you’re in for a campervan trip in Australia. Exciting! But from all kinds of small and big, simple and luxurious campervans, which one is the best for you? Well, only you can decide that, but let us help with the most important questions.

You need to choose the size based on two criteria that are equally important: how many people are you traveling with? And how large of a vehicle are you comfortable driving?

Our car was a converted minivan that was just enough for the two of us and our stuff. But driving it was no different than driving a larger kind of car. We didn’t aim for luxury, but it didn’t cost much more than a regular car rental would have.

Should it be self-contained?

Self-contained vehicles have some sort of toilet onboard. It can make things easier if there’s no running water (or any other kind of toilet) where you camp, but you’re also in charge of dumping your waste. There are dedicated dump points for this purpose.

In our opinion, you don’t really need a self-contained vehicle in Australia. (Unless you stay out there in Nowhere). You find plenty of public toilets, especially along the densely populated east coast, even if there’s no running water (composting toilets). Most of them are nice and clean, and they are all free.

This is a dumb question to ask in Australia, by the way, since all public toilets are free to use, even in the cities. (Coming from Europe, it was not at all obvious to us.)

Should it be 4WD?

It depends. Australia is the country of extremes. But I doubt you need a 4WD for the full length of your road trip in general . Certainly not for a campervan road trip.

The most famous attractions are usually easily accessible, and no 4WD is needed if you stay on the main tourist path . However, if you’d like exploring off the beaten track, well, that’s another story. You can truly get off that beaten path in Australia, and certain mountain roads or desert roads require high clearance 4WD vehicles. Sand islands, like Fraser Island, are also in this category.

But again, in a few weeks, you’ll likely have no time to leave the main tourist route, and the most popular campervan itineraries for Australia don’t require 4WD vehicles.

Check your specific route, and if you’re in doubt, contact the rental company to make sure your car is suitable for what you want to use it for, and it’s allowed to be taken to those roads/regions. Your other option is to sign up for a tour to visit those off-the-beaten-track attractions.

Any extras you need

When choosing the right campervan and the company to rent it from, you better consider whether you need any extras. Like one-way rental, an extra driver, insurance cover, unlimited kilometers, navigation, bedding, towels, camping chairs …

They may or may not be included in the rental by default, and adding them can significantly change the overall price, especially one-way rental at certain companies.

Sample Australian road trips

There are people who drive all around Australia, but most of us don’t have that much time. Whether you plan a regular road trip or a campervan road trip in Australia, here are the most scenic routes you can choose from:

East coast: Cairns to Brisbane (~2 weeks)

One of the most popular routes for a 2 week road trip in Australia. It’s well-developed and fairly busy (by Aussie standards). The best time to do it is between April and October.

Daintree National Park is likely inaccessible in the wet season.

Highlights: Daintree National Park, Great Barrier Reef, Captain Cook Highway, Mission Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Fraser Island, Wooroonooran National Park, Noosa National Park & the Sunshine Coast

East coast: Brisbane to Sydney (3-5 days)

This is a shorter drive with mostly beaches (wonderful beaches!) on the way. It’s ideal for those who dream about a coastal campervan tour in Australia, with lots of fabulous beach stops.

You can combine this route with either the drive from Cairns to Brisbane, or you can drive down to Melbourne, with a stop at Jervis Bay. This area is enjoyable all year.

We actually combined this drive with the one from Cairns, and the one to Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road. (It was a long drive.)

Highlights: Byron Bay & the Gold Coast, beach hopping, Sydney, Royal National Park, Blue Mountains

Great Ocean Road: Melbourne to Adelaide (a few days)

The Great Ocean Road is often mentioned among the best scenic drives in the world – and for a good reason. It’s likely included in any campervan itinerary for Australia, and we recommend taking your time and doing some hiking along the way, as well, to see the best of it.

The best time to do it is from October to April.

Read our guide to the Great Ocean Road!

Highlights: Twelve Apostles & Port Campbell National Park, Great Otway National Park & Kennett River Koala Walk

Through the Australian Outback: Adelaide to Darwin (~2 weeks)

This is not a typical first timers’ Australia road trip itinerary, but it runs through some uniquely Aussie landscapes and gives access to the famous Red Center. You can drive it all year, but Australian summers are extremely hot in the desert.

Highlights: Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kakadu National Park

Through the Nullarbor Plain: Adelaide to Perth (~2 weeks)

The Nullarbor is famous for being a long, straight route without a single curve. Adelaide and Perth are two of the lesser-visited cities, but whoever ends up visiting them ends up falling in love.

If you’re road tripping Australia for the first time and only for a few weeks, it’s not the best choice. But if you have more time, it can be combined with another long drive along the western coastline.

This area has four seasons, so it’s best to avoid Australian winters (from June to August).

Highlights: Cape Le Grand National Park, stargazing, cage diving with sharks in Port Lincoln

West coast: Perth to Broome (~2 weeks)

This is a remote and sparsely populated area, with some very special attractions on the coast and inland. It’s a tropical area, and the wet season (between November and March) is best to avoid.

Highlights: Ningaloo Reef, Perth, Karijini National Park, Shark Bay

Where to stay on your Australia road trip

If you prefer a room with a bed, hostels can be the most affordable option, and you find many across Australia. However, the fact that they are the most affordable places with four walls to stay doesn’t mean they’re cheap. Even a simple bunk bed in a shared room costs about 60-80 AUD/night.

Obviously, cities and more densely populated areas offer a larger variety, and you’ll be left with few choices or nothing at all in more remote regions.

Search for hostels here!

Condos or apartments

For those who’d like to have privacy, or their own kitchen to cook, you can find apartments on Booking.com or condos on . They seem to be a luxurious option compared to hostels, but if you travel with a bigger company, the price for a condo might be nearly the same as booking a separate bed for each of you in a hostel .

Campgrounds and holiday parks

However, the Aussie way to travel around is staying in campgrounds, holiday parks or free campsites. Those are your options on your Australia road trip with a campervan.

We were switching between free sites, campgrounds and holiday parks during our road trip, and it’s never a problem to find one nearby. On this note, having a campervan doesn’t mean you can pull over anywhere you fancy, and sleep in your van. This kind of “freedom camping” is not allowed anymore in Australia, at least not in the inhabited areas.

If you choose one of the more remote caravan routes in Australia, free night stays might be easier to find, but you still need water and electricity from time to time.

The average price for the simplest unpowered site for a campervan ranges from 40-70 AUD/night, depending on how fancy the park is, and where it’s located. Holiday parks are usually more expensive than campgrounds, and beloved beach areas, like Byron Bay, are also expensive. So is living in your van really a budget-friendly option? It could easily be, especially if you’re not alone. The campervan is both your car and accommodation, and also, you can spend many nights at free sights.

The advantage of campgrounds and holiday parks are the great amenities and the beautiful location. We often camped on the beach or right behind the beach, we enjoyed large and well-equipped outdoor kitchens, and clean, spacious amenity blocks. Some had coin-operated washing and drying machines, too, so we could wash our clothes. Some had private pools for guests. Sure, they can be pricey, but they actually outshined quite a number of budget hotels and hostels we’ve stayed at during our travels throughout the years.

Free sites for overnight stay with a campervan

Then there is free camping. There are lots of dedicated free sites where you can stay overnight: parking lots, public parks, rest areas, gas stations. Some hotels (mostly backpacker hostels) allow travelers to stay in their backyard overnight.

These sites differ greatly in the offered amenities though. Most of them have public toilets, but definitely not all of them have showers, drinking water, picnic benches, or even running water. Some free sites are located in nice areas, others are parking lots along the highway with no scenery (but constant noise).

We tried a lot of these free sites, and we were very happy with them. We didn’t expect a lot from them either, the point was saving some money.

How to find the free overnight sites?

With WikiCamps. Honestly, we’ve never paid for a mobile app ever before, but the WikiCamps Australia app was well worth that couple of dollars. What does it offer? All the information about the free and paid sites, campgrounds and holiday parks.

Its greatest strength is the insane amount of information about the free options. Because holiday parks have a website, anyway, but who would tell you that there is a rest area 2 kilometers from where you are, it offers toilets and drinking water, and you are allowed to stay there for 48 hours? WikiCamps will.

We could search for places to stay based on our current location. We could filter them based on tons of different criteria: free site or not, and what kind of amenities it offers. People can comment on the sites, as well, and that’s incredibly useful. That’s how we figured out whether the site is clean, crowded or noisy. There are lots of recent comments about sites along the best campervan routes in Australia.

We also found detailed information about showers in the comments. Free sites offer different kinds of showers (or not). Some are free, some are coin-operated. Sometimes you need to pay and ask for the key at the gas station. All this information is available in the comments.

Since a lot of people use this app, we found comments written some days ago about any site we were interested in. It made our trip so much easier! And this was the main reason we didn’t feel disappointed about any of the free sites: we got what we expected.

What to pack for a campervan trip

Of course, you’ll have your luggage full of clothes and stuff for the perfect holiday. But what is that you need for a campervan road trip specifically? We have good news: not much.

The most important things are usually included in the rental (or can be added easily): cooking supplies, bedding and towels. There are some items though that’s not, but they’re incredibly useful:

• Headlamp : better than a flashlight, because your hands are free. We often cooked our meals with our headlamps on when it was dark. Free sights are often not lit well.
• Hand sanitizer : even the smallest vans have their own water tank, but you better use water sparingly if you stay at free sights with no running water.
• Wet wipes : the quickest way to clean anything in the van
• Dishwashing liquid and sponge
• Toilet paper
• Chargers and spare batteries : campervans usually have an extra battery to use for the small fridge, indoor lights or charging whatever you need to charge, but the bottleneck can be the number of charging ports.

4 tips for driving in Australia

Have an offline map

You often have to survive without internet and even cell coverage in Australia. So even if you have a local SIM card with a data plan, download an offline map in advance. Maps could cost you a lot of data, anyway.

Avoid driving during the night, at dusk and down

In addition to the usual risks of driving at night, you have a special reason not to do it in Australia. Those super cute animals, like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats or possums, get active after the sun goes down. You can see many dead kangaroos by the road, and this should be a warning sign. And no, it’s not only risky for the poor kangaroo, but for you, too. Some kangaroos are big enough to cause serious damage to your car in case of a collision.

Don’t attempt “4WD only” drives in a 2WD

It’s unlikely that you need a 4WD car in general, but certain roads require it. Take that seriously.

What else could we say? Enjoy your trip and don’t ever forget to keep left. 🙂

Related articles:

10 Best Central Coast Beaches, NSW, Australia

Coogee To Bondi Walk, The Best Coastal Walk In Sydney

The 21 Most Instagrammable Places In Sydney

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Which are the best lesser-known hikes in North America?

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Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

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The Ultimate East Coast of Australia Road Trip Itinerary

So many people dream of undertaking an east coast of Australia road trip — an epic tour along Australia’s Pacific coast from Sydney to Cairns. From pristine beaches, ancient rainforests, cosmopolitan cities, incredible national parks, islands and wildlife — this coastline really does offer a bit of everything, and has enough activities to satisfy even the biggest adrenaline junkie.

This itinerary aims to show you the very best of Australia’s east coast — from scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, to driving a 4×4 along the world’s largest sand island, to hiking in the national parks and so much more.

I spent 6 weeks touring the east coast of Australia; here’s a low down of my route and itinerary up the coast from Sydney to Cairns!

EAST COAST OF AUSTRALIA ROAD TRIP OVERVIEW

Sydney Byron Bay Gold Coast Brisbane Noosa Heads Fraser Island Whitsunday Islands Magnetic Island Cairns

An epic east coast of Australia road trip itinerary

Following the classic route from Sydney to Cairns, here is my recommended route for your east coast of Australia road trip. This itinerary will take about 6 weeks, but feel free to chop and change it as you like to fit in with your time budget.

Where to stay in Sydney: Wake Up! Sydney Central

Start your east coast of Australia road trip in Sydney – the country’s most iconic city. I recommend spending at least 2 days here, but more if you can! It’s an effortless blend of both urban and beach lifestyles, where world-renowned landmarks meet world-class beaches.

Obviously, you’ll want to check out the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Head to Circular Quay, where you’ll be able to spend some time photographing these iconic landmarks. Just a few minutes walk away from Circular Quay, you’ll find the Royal Botanic Garden. A verdant oasis in the heart of Sydney, spend some time exploring the garden and perhaps bring a picnic to enjoy.

No visit to Sydney would be complete without hiking the iconic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk — a beautifully scenic 6km route which will take you to some of the best beaches along the eastern suburbs of Sydney.

I also recommend you take the ferry across to Manly Beach for a day, a suburb known for its scenic coastal walks and excellent snorkelling. The ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach takes just 30 minutes, so it’s well worth the trip.

Things to do in Sydney

• Visit the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
• Stroll around the Royal Botanic Gardens
• Complete the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
• Visit Manly Beach

Where to stay in Byron Bay: Byron Bay YHA

Ah, Byron. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular spots on the east coast of Australia. I’ve not met anyone who didn’t fall in love with Byron’s charm – the vibe is chilled, the people friendly, and the beaches blessed with astonishing beauty.

There are plenty of beaches, bars, and restaurants to enjoy in Byron, and I highly recommend an afternoon of relaxation at Wategos beach, where it’s not uncommon to see dolphins at play.

One of the most popular activities in Byron Bay is walking to the Byron Bay Lighthouse at sunrise. Start your walk from the Beach Hotel, a famous pub on Bay Street. From here, simply follow the path parallel to the beach. The view from the lighthouse is awe-inspiring, and I promise the early morning wake-up call will be worth it!

While you’re in Byron, I also recommend taking a day trip to Nimbin – the alternative lifestyle capital of Australia. Nimbin is an interesting place to explore, adorned with shops selling psychedelic clothing, spiritual wares, and cafes where you can * ahem* relax. My trip to Nimbin was the wackiest day I had in Australia – we were driven through the hinterland in a rainbow-coloured bus, driven by an outlandish Bob Marley enthusiast called Jimmy.

Things to do in Byron Bay

• Walk to the Byron Bay Lighthouse
• Take a surfing lesson
• Spot dolphins at Wategos beach
• Visit Nimbin
• Relax on the beach

The Gold Coast

Where to stay on the Gold Coast: BUNK Surfers Paradise

For transparency, I want to state that I personally didn’t like the Gold Coast. However, lots of people  do  love it, so I’ve included it in this itinerary so that you can make your own decision about whether or not it’s somewhere you’d like to visit.

I found the Gold Coast to be somewhat tacky, but perhaps that’s part of the fun. It’s a huge entertainment city, full of shopping, theme parks and lively nightlife. If you love this kind of thing, then the Gold Coast may be perfect for you!

After feeling a little annoyed with the city, we took a tram to nearby Burleigh Heads National Park. It was really beautiful there, and we spent some time walking through the National Park, before arriving at Tallebudgera Creek. Tallebudgera Creek was beautiful; the sun was shining, and people were swimming, paddle boarding and jumping into the creek. If you want to visit Burleigh Heads National Park, too, you can get tram no. 700 going towards Tweed Heads . The journey is about 40 minutes.

Things to do on The Gold Coast

• Chill out at Surfers Paradise Beach
• Visit Q1’s Sky Deck for views over the city and coast
• Go hiking in Burleigh Heads National Park
• Hit up a theme park
• Shop, drink and party!

Where to stay in Brisbane: Selina Brisbane

Brisbane, or Brissie, as the locals call it, is a pleasant, modern city away from the coast.

Brisbane’s South Bank is the place to be; sprawling lawns and gardens, nice restaurants, bars and cafes, the Brisbane Ferris Wheel, and best of all, the lagoon. As Brisbane is not actually on the coast, a man-made lagoon has been   placed in the city centre instead! It’s actually really nice, and we spent a couple of days here enjoying the sun and water.

Queen Street is the main street in Brisbane and is home to a mall, plaza and a plethora of restaurants and bars. We went out for dinner here one night (a rare event given our backpacker budget) and could easily have spent more time shopping and exploring around the area.

One of the most popular Brisbane attractions is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. It’s the oldest koala sanctuary in the world and home to 130 of these critters! To get there, you can take a bus directly from Queen Street.

Things to do in Brisbane

• Chill out at South Bank
• Visit Roma Street Parkland
• Eat and shop at Queen Street
• Visit the Botanical Gardens
• Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Where to stay in Noosa: Halse Lodge Guest House

For fans of the great outdoors, Noosa is the perfect stop. It’s home to the Noosa Heads National Park, one of the Sunshine Coast’s top natural treasures. Noosa was without a doubt one of my favourite places along the east coast of Australia.

The national park comprises of over 9,800 acres of rainforest and heathland, and there are 5 designated walking tracks for you to choose from. The park is highly accessible, too; simply walk up the hill from Noosa Main Beach towards the Noosa National Park car park, from where 15 kilometres of hiking trails thread through the wilderness.

I personally completed both the Tanglewood Track — where I saw some wild koalas — and the Coastal Track, which is probably the most popular. I definitely recommend the Coastal Track if you like a good hike, but be sure to bring plenty of water as the majority of the track is unshaded. It starts at Noosa Heads and ends at Sunshine Beach, passing by lots of stunning bays, the so-called Fairy Pools and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities.

Noosa town itself is also a nice place to look around. Be sure to check out Hastings Street, the heart of Noosa Heads, which is home to lots of restaurants, cafes, art galleries, boutiques and designer stores.

The town is fringed by Noosa Main Beach, a gorgeous crescent of golden sand, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views. There was a surf festival on while I was there so the beach was pretty buzzing! Sunshine Beach, on the opposite side of Noosa Heads, is also spectacular.

Not only this, but Noosa is also home to one of only two Everglade systems in the world (the other being in Florida) and kayaking down them is a popular activity. I highly recommend a day trip, or even an overnight trip, to go kayaking on the Everglades. It’s simply beautiful.

Things to do in Noosa

• Go hiking in Noosa Heads National Park
• Go kayaking in the Noosa Everglades
• Relax at Noosa Main Beach and Sunshine Beach
• Shop and eat at Hastings Street

Fraser Island

Book your Fraser Island trip with Cool Dingoes

Fraser Island is up there as one of the highlights from my time in Australia, and if you can only afford one big-ticket attraction on your east coast of Australia road trip, make sure it’s this! Stretching 122km, and abundant in rainforests, sand dunes and freshwater lakes, Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world.

Fraser Island can be accessed from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach , both of which have ferry crossings to the island. We chose to spend the night before and the night after our time on Fraser Island at Rainbow Beach.

You can rent a 4×4 and drive yourself around the island, or you can join a guided tour. We personally chose to join a guided tour and signed up for a multi-day camping and 4×4 adventure package, which was one of the best things we did in Australia. We drove a 4X4 along the beach, swam in secluded lakes, discovered shipwrecks, and camped beneath the stars.

On Fraser, you’ll discover The Maheno Shipwreck — a 5000-tonne ocean liner that traversed Australia and New Zealand in the 1900s. In 1935, she was washed ashore after a raging cyclone and has been left abandoned on Fraser Island ever since.

Other highlights include Eli Creek, a meandering stream where you can sit on an inflatable tube and flow gently along its waters. Climb up to Indian Head Lookout, where you’ll be graced with a sensational view of the island. Or, take a dip in the Champagne Pools, a beautiful swimming hole known for its pools of bubbling water.

The ultimate highlight, though, is Lake McKenzie. Probably the most visited site on the island, its waters consist of pure rainwater and its shore of pure silica sand. It’s said that the sand is so pure, you can wash your jewellery with it. Spend a couple of hours swimming in Lake McKenzie’s perfect waters, and enjoy the impossible natural beauty of Fraser Island.

Things to do on Fraser Island

• Drive along Fraser’s “highway” in a 4×4
• Swim in Lake Mackenzie
• Visit the Maheno shipwreck
• Go tubing in Eli Creek
• See the spectacular view from Indian Head Lookout

Whitsunday Islands

Book your Whitsunday Islands trip with True Blue Sailing aboard New Horizons

From Rainbow Beach, head south towards Airlie Beach — the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsundays are a spectacular group of 74 islands, characterised by dense rainforest and snow-white beaches. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular sailing destinations in the world.

There are all kinds of sailing trips to choose from — fast-paced day trips, crazy party tours, adventure cruises, family cruises, and everything in between. Make sure to book one suited to you!

The Atlantic Clipper is by far the most famous; an exciting 2-night party tour featuring scuba diving, bush walks and merry, goon-fuelled evenings. You’ll be able to sunbathe on deck in giant bean bags, relax in the onboard Jacuzzi, and mingle with 52 other like-minded backpackers. Oh, and let’s not forget the huge inflatable water slide!

If you’re looking for a more chilled-out vibe, opt for a Whitsundays cruise with New Horizon instead. New Horizon is still social, but with a little more adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to go paddle boarding, scuba diving, bushwalking, and swimming.

Your sailing adventure will likely take you to Whitehaven Beach; an impossibly white stretch of sand that’s so soft, it’ll squeak beneath your feet. Be sure to walk up to the Hill Inlet viewpoint, where you’ll be graced with a mesmerising landscape consisting of blue and white swirls, where the shifting tide causes the sand and ocean to twist together.

Things to do in Whitsunday Islands

• Visit Whitehaven Beach
• See the spectacular view from Hill Inlet viewpoint
• Go snorkelling or scuba diving
• Sunbathe on the deck of your yacht

Magnetic Island

Where to stay on Magnetic Island: Nomads Magnetic Island

Another of my East Coast of Australia highlights, Magnetic Island — or Maggie, as the locals call her — is a beautiful, chilled-out little island 18km off the coast from Townsville.  SeaLink  offers 18 daily ferries from Townsville to Magnetic Island, so you’ll have no problem booking yourself onto one!

Once you arrive, I recommend you hire a barbie car . Magnetic Island is well known for these fun, brightly-coloured, topless cars that tourists hire and cruise all over the island. They’re fun, quirky and a novelty that you should absolutely buy into.

Magnetic Island is home to 23 little bays, and we had a lot of fun driving around to visit as many as we could. My favourite was Horseshoe Bay, as it was the most picturesque and a great place to watch the sunset.

Horseshoe Bay, Alma Bay/Arcadia, Nelly Bay and Picnic Bay are the main residential bays, but there are many quieter ones and you may just find one all to yourself. 

As dusk approaches, pull up into Geoffrey Bay and you’ll see dozens of rock wallabies hanging out. They’re pretty inquisitive and will have no qualms about coming up to you to investigate. You can also buy wallaby pellets from the store in Arcadia if you want to feed them.

I also recommend you take on the Forts Walk, which is a scenic 4km walk that takes you to the ruins of an old WWII Forts complex, as well as to lookouts providing stunning views across the ocean. Not only this, but Magnetic Island has the highest number of wild koalas in Australia and the Forts Walk is known as the best place on the island to spot them. We were lucky enough to see two! Early morning or late afternoon will give you the best chance of seeing them.

Things to do in Magnetic Island

• Hire a novelty car to drive around in
• Spot wild koalas on the Forts Walk
• Hop between the bays
• Feed the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay
• Watch the sunset at Horseshoe Bay

Where to stay in Cairns: Travellers Oasis

Thought of as the adventure capital of Australia, Cairns is the perfect place to end your east coast road trip. Sandwiched between the ancient Daintree Rainforest and the world-famous Great Barrier Reef , you won’t be short of things to do in Cairns. It’s a lively backpacker town, with a range of adrenaline activities on offer — including bungee jumping, skydiving, and white water rafting.

While Cairns itself doesn’t really have a beach, it does have a beautiful man-made lagoon in the centre of town. Here, you can swim, relax, have a picnic, and escape from the stifling heat of tropical north Queensland.

Be sure to make a trip to the Daintree Rainforest, too; it’s the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, where you’ll discover spectacular waterfalls, beaches, and wildlife.

Now, it simply would not be a trip to Australia without visiting the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Luckily, Cairns is the gateway to the reef, and there is no shortage of companies ready to take you scuba diving or snorkelling. Opt for a day trip with SeaQuest, where you’ll be whisked away to the outer reef for a day of sun, sea, snorkelling and scuba. Expect to see colourful coral, rainbow fish, and perhaps even a sea turtle.

If you’re looking for a party-orientated place to stay in Cairns, I recommend Gilligan’s . Popular with both locals and travellers, Gillie’s is cheap and sociable, with a wild nightclub attached to the premises. If you’re hoping to catch up on your beauty sleep, you’ll probably want to skip a stay at Gilligan’s, but it’s worth visiting for an evening of partying.

Top things to do in Cairns

• Go scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef
• Relax at Cairns Lagoon
• Visit the Daintree Rainforest
• Go bungee jumping, skydiving, or white-water rafting
• Party at Gilligans

Planning your east coast of Australia road trip

From the best time to visit to what kind of vehicle you need, here is everything you need to know about the logistics of planning your east coast of Australia road trip.

Best time to travel the east coast of Australia

As Australia is such a huge country, the weather in the north and south can vary massively.

In North Queensland, where the climate is tropical, the summers (December – February) are hot and humid, and the winters (June – August) are dry and mild. The summer months can bring strong monsoon rains, which you’ll likely want to avoid.

While the weather may be perfect in the north of Australia during the winter months, it may be a bit cold in Australia’s south – temperatures can drop to 7 Celsius in Sydney during this time.

This means that if you want good weather throughout your trip, you’ll likely need to strike a balance.

I travelled the east coast from south to north from February to April. This meant I was in the south of Australia during the end of summer and by the time I hit the north, it was autumn. The weather was pretty perfect the whole way and we had only a few days of rain.

If you travel from north to south, i.e. from Cairns to Sydney, travelling from the end of winter into spring may be ideal. This way, you’ll avoid scorching temperatures in the north and be in the south by the time spring hits.

How long does it take to road trip the east coast of Australia?

Many people just don’t seem to realise how huge Australia is. The distance between Sydney and Cairns is over 2,800km, which is about 36 hours of solid driving time. Given how vast the distances are, you’ll want to give yourself ample time to see and do things along the way – without feeling like you did nothing but travel! Travel between destinations often takes longer than it may seem on the map, so be sure to allow yourself enough time.

I would recommend an absolute minimum of 2 weeks if you’re strapped for time, but 4 – 6 weeks is ideal . You could tick off the main sights in 2 weeks, but travelling more slowly and taking the time to explore places properly will allow you to have a much better experience.

What kind of car do I need?

In my opinion, any Australian road trip is best with a camper van. The freedom is unparalleled and you can travel at your own pace. However, driving a campervan isn’t for everyone and travelling the east coast of Australia by car is also a great option. It entirely depends on your comfort level, and whether you’ll want to stay in hostels/hotels or are happy to spend nights in your campervan.

Can I travel the east coast of Australia without a car?

Absolutely! The famous Greyhound services Australia’s east coast very extensively, meaning you can go everywhere on this itinerary and more by bus. Greyhound’s Whimit Travel Passes are Hop On Hop Off tickets, offering unlimited and flexible travel along the east coast. This means you can travel from A to B at your convenience!

I hope this post has helped you to plan your east coast of Australia road trip!

Where to next?

• Take on an unforgettable Western Australia road trip itinerary
• See the best places to spot wildlife in Australia
• Learn how to be a sustainable tourist at the Great Barrier Reef

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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13 comments.

I hope to visit Australia one day and of course the East Coast will be high on the to visit list of Australia. Very complete guide of the places that should appear on this to visit list 🙂

I hope you get to visit soon; it was an amazing trip!

Your photos are amazing!! I can’t wait to explore Australia one day and the side of the World!

Thank you! Hopefully you’ll get to see Australia soon 🙂

This looks so exciting! I can’t wait to roadtrip Australia! Thankd for the tips x

You’ll have an amazing time! When are you going? 🙂

End of October is the plan 🙂 I’ll definitely use this post as reference 🙂 x

Ah nice! Have the best time 🙂

Nice blog and great pictures!

Awesome photos!!! Australia is on my bucket-list and you pretty covered a lot on this post. Thank you for sharing!

God bless! JM Kayne | #InMyHeart♥

You’re welcome! I hope you do visit one day, it was an amazing couple of months 🙂

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120+ Road Trip Essentials Australia (with PDF Packing List)

There is no better way to explore Australia than jumping into your car and embarking on an epic road trip. Whether you decide to stop at motels along the way, or hitch up the caravan and camp your way around, road tripping is by far the best way to see this vast country.

However, being prepared for a road trip will not only make for a much more comfortable journey, it can sometimes even be a matter of safety.

The important categories to cover in a road trip essentials list include:

• Personal items
• Clothing & shoes
• Kids & pet items
• Entertainment
• Communication & technology
• Food & drink
• Camping & cooking
• Organisation
• Vehicle & trailer preparation
• Travel planning 

Checking all of the essential tasks and items off your road trip checklist will give you peace of mind and ensure that you’re organised ahead of your next adventure.

We are a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to ebay.com and other affiliated sites. We may earn a commission from your purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our disclosures here .

Road Trip Essentials – PERSONAL

The easiest way to keep all of your daily road trip essentials together while travelling is in a handy backpack. That way, you can just pick it up and go at any time, knowing that everything you need is in one place.

Medications & Scripts

If you require regular medications, make sure you’ve got plenty packed for your trip. It can help to pack your spare script as well, just in case you need to fill it during the road trip.

Microfibre Towels

Whether you’ll be staying in accommodation or camping, packing 1 x microfibre towel person is a must as they will dry quickly on the road. From showering to swimming, getting clean and dry is essential. It doesn’t hurt to have 2 towels per person if you plan on doing a lot of swimming or using campsite amenities at night.

Check out our review of the Tesalate microfibre towels for caravanning and camping.

Notebook & Pen

It’s always handy to have a notebook and pen or even some pencils and a rubber in the glovebox.

Notebook & pen uses:

• Accident/ incident – jot down necessary details
• Planning – brainstorm travel plans while on the go
• Shopping lists – for the next stop
• Boredom – can doodle or play games

Plastic Bags & Ziplock Bags

You never know when you’ll need to throw an item or two into a plastic bag or seal it away in a ziplock bag. From wet clothes to toilet paper, snacks or even your toothbrush! Plastic bags are also handy to use as shopping bags along the way, plus of course, you’ll need something to store your garbage in.

Uses for plastic/ ziplock bags:

• Keep small things stored together in a ziplock bag
• Separate wet/ dry items
• Storing garbage

Reusable Shopping Bag

Many supermarkets in Australia have now banned single-use plastic bags, which means you’ll need to have your own when ducking into the shops for supplies. A fabric bag is always handy and can roll down to a tiny size for storage.

Spare Money

The last thing you want to deal with on the road is not being able to pay for the goods and services that you require in that moment. Make sure you pack spare physical cash, as well as a spare debit card with back-up money on it. That way, if you’re in the outback with no WiFi reception and no ability to simply transfer money onto the other card, you will still be good to go.

Money to carry:

• Everyday debit card
• Spare debit card (with available funds in case of emergency)
• $1 coins for laundromats

Sunglasses & Reading Glasses

Driving along the bright Australian roads can be harsh on your eyes. Sunglasses are recommended in order to reduce straining and squinting. Plus, for those who wear reading glasses, don’t forget to pack a pair of those as well.

Toilet Paper & Tissues

Unfortunately, you can’t always rely on public toilets and rest stops having a topped up supply of toilet paper. It always pays to have a few rolls of your own in the car. Plus, a box of tissues in the car if someone gets the sniffles will keep everyone comfortable.

A great new camping gadget for keeping your toilet paper clean and dry is with the Dunny Buddy Toilet Roll Holder. It’s definitely handy for grabbing and heading over to random toilet blocks on the go.

• Bug repellent
• Floss & mouthwash
• Hair brush/ comb
• Hair ties & clips
• Hand sanitiser
• Moisturiser
• Nail scissors
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Soap/ body wash

One or two small, compact umbrellas stashed away inside the car door pockets may end up being very welcome on your road trip. If the heavens decide to open up at the exact moment you need to run into a store or attraction, you can simply pop it open and wander on over without getting too wet (hopefully!)

Wallet or Purse

A slim wallet or purse is perfect for slipping into your pocket or bag when you’re travelling on the road. Bulky wallets can take up too much space and are heavier to carry around.

Sometimes, having a shower on the road becomes a luxury, rather than a given. But, if you’ve got a wet washer or some wet wipes, you can still stay hygienic easily enough. They’re also useful for dirty hands when there is no running water nearby.

Road Trip Packing Checklist

[ Digital & Printable ]

What you get:

• Pre-filled with 600+ items
• TICK off items as you pack
• ADD in weights (to organise payload if applicable)
• 17 categories
• PRINTABLE format – fully customisable
• DIGITAL format – completely interactive on your device
• Download once, use it over-and-over

Road Trip Essentials – CLOTHING & SHOES

• 7 x shirts – to wear during the day
• 1 x dressy shirt – for going out at night

Shorts/ Skirts

• 5 x bottoms – to rotate through during the days

Long Pants/ Jeans/ Leggings

• 1 x pair – for going out at night
• 2 – 5 pairs – if it’s cold and you’ll wear them during the day

Jumpers & Jackets

• 1 x light jumper – for mild climates
• 2 x warm jumpers – for colder climates
• 1 x warm jacket – for colder climates
• 1 x waterproof jacket/ poncho – for wet weather

Socks & Underwear

• 7 x pairs socks – for your walking shoes & wearing in bed at night
• 7 x pairs underwear
• 2 x thermal underwear – for winter & cold climates
• 2 x wool socks – for winter & cold climates
• 1 x pair of walking shoes
• 1 x pair of thongs/ slides – for wearing around the campsite & in the shower
• 1 x pair of warm boots – for colder climates
• Bikini/ swimmers
• Board shorts

Road Trip Essentials – KIDS

• Blankets & wraps
• Bottles/ sippy cups
• Nappy Bag (nappies, wipes, cream, change mat, nappy bags etc.)
• A few favourite toys
• Drink bottle
• Educational material (if missing out on school)
• Entertainment (tablet, books, blocks, ball, sand toys etc.)

Here’s more tips for travelling with kids .

Road Trip Essentials – PETS

• Collar & tag
• Balls/ toys
• Prescriptions & special needs
• Ensure microchipping, vaccinations, registration, worming & vet checks are up-to-date

Check out the full guide to travelling with dogs .

Road Trip Essentials – ENTERTAINMENT

Audio Entertainment

Pre-make some playlists of various audio entertainment for long days on the road. Here are 150+ songs for road-tripping to get you started!

Audio Entertainment:

Ball or Frisbee

A great way to help stretch the legs and bodies during rest stops and at the end of the day is by kicking around a ball or throwing a frisbee. If you’re travelling with kids or pets, they will especially love this.

Binoculars are great for spotting wildlife in the trees both during the day and at night. They also give an extra perspective when exploring new places and you want to be able to see various sites a bit closer.

Board Games & Playing Cards

One of the best parts of a road trip is switching off from our highly-stimulated lives and reconnecting with each other and/ or the world around us. Board games and playing cards provide hours of entertainment without a device or battery in sight! Plus, if the weather turns awful, you’ll be thankful to have some easy entertainment on hand.

Books & Magazines

If you’re old school like me and prefer to physically turn the pages, then one or a few (depending on how fast you read!) good books or magazines will always offer plenty of entertainment. Head to the library before you go and grab some holiday reading. Or, look out for books swaps along the way (often found in campground amenity blocks)

Here are some great novels about travelling Australia , plus some fantastic Australian kids books , to read and help inspire you for your own travels.

Electronic Games

To help keep kids entertained during those long travel days, some pre-downloaded games on a device or a handheld gaming console can break up the hours.

If you want to be able to chill out and have your own downtime (either in the car, or at your accommodation), a set of headphones will be handy. Listen to podcasts, audiobooks, music, YouTube videos etc.

Portable Speaker

One of the best ways to chill after a day of road tripping is with some tunes going in the background while sitting around a campfire, reading a book, playing a game or chatting with your companions. Pack your portable speaker with charging cable and you’re good to go!

Tablet or eReader

Another great way to chill out during your down time is to play some pre-downloaded games or make your way through a pile of eBooks. The best thing about a tablet is that you can fit a lot of entertainment into one small device, saving you lots of space and weight.

Road Trip Essentials – COMMUNICATION & TECHNOLOGY

These days our phones do a pretty damn good job of taking photos. But if you want something on top of that, such as a drone, GoPro or DSLR, then don’t forget to pack your kit, along with the charger and batteries.

Camping App

If you’re camping during your road trip, make sure you download a camping app such as WikiCamps or Camps Australia Wide. These apps are invaluable tools for finding camps, drinking water, dump points, info centres and loads more.

Here are over 25 Apps for Travelling Australia , that will enhance your trip.

What would a modern-day road trip checklist even look like without chargers?!

Chargers to remember:

• Laptop/ tablet
• Bluetooth speaker

Map App/ GPS

If your vehicle doesn’t have a GPS system already installed, make sure you’ve got access to Google Maps or similar on your device. To ensure you’ve always got offline map availability around Australia, you can pre-download maps on apps such as WikiCamps , Maps.me or Hema Maps .

• Pre-download maps
• Use offline
• Save on mobile data
• Maps run off GPS when you don’t have reception

Portable WiFi Modem

You can quite easily use your mobile phone data while you’re travelling, if you have enough of it. However, another option is to take a portable WiFi modem with you for extra internet usage along the way.

A portable power bank that can be charged in your car as you’re driving is a great way to keep all of your devices topped up when you’re out and about.

Satellite Phone

If you plan on heading off the beaten track for any length of time and know that you won’t have phone reception, carrying a satellite phone can become a matter of personal safety. They can be expensive, but with a second hand unit and a small plan, just to cover the time that you’ll be travelling, it means you’ll still have communication with friends, family and emergency services if need be.

A UHF Radio is an essential road trip item for travelling in Australia. This is the main form of communication between truck drivers, passenger vehicle drivers, oversized load pilots and station workers.

Reasons to have a UHF Radio:

• Communicate with truck drivers
• Hear if there are any oversized loads coming so that you can move off the road
• Call for help in case of emergency

The main channel to use on the highways in Australia is Channel 40, which will allow other drivers to contact you and vice-versa if need be. Here’s the full guide for travelling with a UHF Radio in Australia .

Road Trip Essentials – FOOD & DRINK

Insulated water bottles.

Rather than carrying cartons of bottled water, which are awful for our environment, make sure every traveller has their own insulated water bottle.

You can carry a 20L water jerry can in the back or the larger 10L containers of water and fill your bottles from there. Even though you may not be filing the bottles up with cold water, the insulation will keep the water from boiling in the car from the heat of the sun.

No road trip essentials list is complete without an array of snacks to keep you going!

Snack Ideas:

• Cheese & dip
• Fruit/ protein/ muesli bars
• Treats (chocolate, lollies, chips etc.)

Plus, unless you plan on eating out or buying every meal on the go, you’ll need to pack ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner into your pantry box and portable fridge/ esky.

Water Containers

One of the main road trip essentials in Australia is water and packing a couple of bottles is simply not enough. You should always carry at least a 20L water container filled up, even if you don’t use it all. In case of break down or emergency, water is the number one resource that all passengers will require.

Road Trip Essentials – CAMPING & COOKING

Many of these items are essentials for those who are camping during their road trip, however, if you’re travelling in a van, check out these van camping accessories .

Aluminium Foil

Alfoil is useful for covering up foods and dishes to pack into the fridge or esky. It’s also great for campfire cooking (especially baked potatoes in the fire!)

Camping Chairs

Camping chairs will always come in handy on a road trip, however they can be rather bulky. If you’re pressed for space, you may choose to go for a waterproof picnic blanket and make use of public picnic tables instead.

Camping Stove/ BBQ

Something small and compact for cooking on will be essential. A camping stove with spare fuel canisters is a great, easy solution. Another option is to pack a small BBQ with a small 4kg gas bottle.

Chopping Board

Essential for preparing meals and cutting up food.

Collapsible Table

You can’t always rely on finding a spare picnic table every time you need one. Having a small, collapsible table in the boot is handy for making lunch on the road, cooking at night and even playing a game of cards.

Alternatively, you could go for a swing-away BBQARM, which easily attaches to either a tow mount or rear bar. They make a great, compact little table, which quickly dismantles and takes up very little storage space in the car.

A small amount of both laundry powder and washing up liquid for cleaning your dishes and clothes along the way are both road trip essentials, whether you’re camping or staying in motels.

• Laundry powder
• Washing up liquid

Fire Lighters

Getting a fire going on the road can sometimes be a bit tricky, especially if you’re foraging well picked over campsites and can’t find much kindling. In case of difficulty, throw in a few fire lighters to help get the fire going at night.

Fridge/ Esky

If you’re camping while road tripping in Australia, you will definitely need some way of keeping your food and drinks cold. A 12v fridge is the best way to go, however a good old esky with ice will also do the trick. You’ll obviously need to keep topping up the ice at service stations along the way if you go for the esky option.

Hot Water Bottles

If you’re road tripping during winter or travelling through colder climates, one hot water bottle per person will be very welcome under the blanket at night.

Every camper needs a good lantern for cooking, cleaning and moving around at night. Don’t forget to pack spare batteries or the cable for charging if it’s a rechargeable one.

Lighters & Matches

Always carry multiple matches and lighters if you’re planning on having a fire every night. It’s less than fun to arrive at camp on a cold night, only to find you’ve got nothing to start a fire with.

Mattress or Roll Mat

If you’re staying in a tent, you’ll need to pack some type of mattress for sleeping on. The easiest option is a self-inflating mattress, however they can be quite bulky to store. Another option is the humble blow-up mattress with a 12v pump that runs from the car. Alternatively, you can go for a simple roll mat underneath your sleeping bag, which will help to insulate you against the cold of the ground, as well as provide some padding.

Mugs or Tumblers

One mug or insulated tumbler per person is all that you’ll need. They will work for both hot beverages in the morning to cold drinks at night. For avid tea and coffee drinkers, you may also want to pack a lidded travel mug for hot drinks in the car.

Throw a newspaper in the car to easily get your fire started each night.

Paper Towel

When it comes to cooking on the road, paper towel is really handy in wiping over semi-dirty dishes and reducing what needs to be washed. It’s also handy for wiping hands and soaking up grease from food.

Pegless Clothesline

If you’re going to be camping during your road trip, you’ll need some way of drying your wet towels from the shower. Plus, if you use a laundry along the way, being able to dry your washing at camp, instead of putting it through a dryer, will save time and money. Having one (or multiple) Pegless Clotheslines with your road trip essentials will take up very little space, yet very much come in handy.

Picnic Blanket

It’s always handy to add a picnic blanket onto your road trip essentials Australia checklist. They’re great for throwing over picnic tables for meals or using as a ground blanket if need be. A picnic blanket with a waterproof backing is even better for those situations where things are a little damp.

Pillows, Blankets & Sleeping Bags

Definite road trip essentials for campers are some pillows and blankets to help stay warm and comfortable at night. For colder climates, a thermal sleeping bag with an extra warm blanket will keep you much warmer.

Plastic Containers & Twisty Ties

You’ll need some way of storing leftover food once packages have been opened. A couple of reusable containers and some twisty ties (or rubber bands) are all handy solutions.

Plates & Bowls

Pack the essential plates and bowls that you’ll need for your road trip. Going for plastic or stainless steel makes them easier for throwing back into the car along the way, without having to worry about breakages. You could even pack some paper plates and throw them into the fire at night, to help reduce the dirty dishes.

Pots & Pans

Ensure you pack at least one pot and one frying pan for cooking. You can also add in a whistling kettle for boiling water, although if you prefer to keep things light, a pot will also do the job.

Tea Towels & Dishcloths

Road trip essentials for washing the dishes while travelling include a couple of tea towels and one or two dishcloths for cleaning. A scourer is also helpful to remove stuck food from plates and pots.

The easiest camping accommodation when you’re road tripping and moving every day is a simple tent or a roll-up swag. The benefit of the swag is that there’s a built-in mattress, which means less packing and less setting up.

A good quality thermos will keep soups and drinks hot for hours. You can make up a batch of coffee or soup in the morning, store it in your thermos and enjoy it all day on the road.

Torch or Headlamp

Along with having a lantern, it’s a good idea to pack a torch or headlamp as well (with spare batteries). A headlamp in particular is much easier for doing nighttime toilet trips, getting things in and out of the car, changing a tyre on the side of the road and even using inside the tent.

Utensils & Cutlery

Some essential utensils and cutlery to pack for your road trip in Australia include knives, forks, spoons, tongs, flipper, wooden spoon and a large serving spoon.

Utensil & Cutlery Items:

• Can opener (or only buy cans with the ring pull)
• Cutlery – butter knives, forks, teaspoons, dessert spoons
• Egg flipper
• Large serving spoon
• Sharp knife
• Vegetable peeler
• Wooden spoon

Washing Up Bucket

You’ll need a bucket or plastic camping sink for washing the dishes after each meal. You can also use it to store all of the cleaning stuff in.

Whistling Kettle

Having some way of boiling water for tea, coffee and dishes is a must have item on your road trip essentials Australia list. However, if you prefer to pack less items, you could just use a pot.

12v to 240v Inverter

A small inverter, which is designed to plug into a car cigarette socket, will give you the ability to charge things like laptops and camera batteries if you don’t have access to mains power.

Road Trip Essentials – PAPERWORK

Most people never even look at their car manual, but if you’re stuck on the side of the road with a car problem, you might just be thankful you have it.

Double check that your insurance is up-to-date before hitting the road and make sure you’re covered for everything that you intend to be covered for. Pack a copy of your insurance policy number and contact details into the glove box, in case of an accident.

Insurance Tips:

• Ensure payments are up-to-date
• Ensure you’re covered for everything
• Pack policy number & contact phone number into the glove box

Here’s everything you need to know about Caravan Insurance in Australia .

Licence/ ID

Something we should never leave home without is our driver’s licence or some form of ID. This will become especially important when entering licensed venues along the way. For travelling kids who have a school ID card, it’s a good idea to pack that as well, just in case they need to show proof of age for various attractions.

Licences to include:

• Licence for driver/s
• Photo ID for 18+ travellers without a licence
• School ID for kids (if applicable)

Registration

These days, most authorities can do a quick rego check with their system and see whether or not your vehicle and trailer are registered. However, it can help to carry registration papers in the glove box just in case you need proof (especially if you don’t have internet access at the time).

Registration Paperwork:

• Ensure registration is up-to-date
• Pack paperwork into the glove box

Here’s everything you need to know about Caravan Registration in Australia , with state-by-state costs and regulations.

Roadside Assistance

Make sure you’ve got a good roadside assistance policy to cover you for various break-down situations that may occur during a road trip in Australia. Pack the paperwork with membership number and the roadside assistance phone number into the glovebox.

Roadside Assistance Paperwork:

• Ensure your car is covered
• Ensure your caravan/ camper is also covered (under the same policy if possible)
• Pack membership number & contact phone number into the glove box

Here’s everything you need to know about Caravan Roadside Assistance in Australia .

Road Trip Essentials – EMERGENCY

Emergency Roadside Kit

All travellers should include an emergency tool kit on their road trip checklist, whether you’re sticking to the highways, or going off the beaten track.

Emergency Kit Items:

• Basic tools
• Pocket knife
• Tyre repair kit
• Spare fuses
• Electrical tape/ Duct Tape
• Torch with spare batteries
• Reflective safety vest
• Reflective triangle
• Window breaker

First Aid Kits

When travelling throughout Australia for any length of time, you should always have a well-stocked First Aid Kit in your car. I also recommend packing a Snake Bite Kit, which will have the specific snake bite bandages with the square indicators on them.

For a full list of over 40 items, see our First Aid Kit Checklist .

Below are some pre-made First Aid Kits by Survival, which contain absolutely everything you should need to aid you in an emergency situation.

Survival First Aid Kits (eBay) →

Survival Snake Bite Kits (eBay) →

Jumper Leads or Battery Jump Pack

Another essential road trip checklist item is something to be able to jump start your car with, in the case of a flat battery.

Jumper leads are handy if you can hail down another car and jump off their battery. However, that’s not always possible. In which case, carrying a battery jump pack is a much better option, especially if you plan on travelling a little more remotely.

You should never fully rely on your phone maps when you’re travelling. Although it’s definitely recommended to pre-download offline maps using your GPS system of choice, what will you do if your phone charge dies? It’s always wise to have a good quality paper map of the area in which you’re travelling through as a back-up.

PLB (Personal Locator Beacon)

A Personal Locator Beacon is a device which will send out an alert to emergency services with your exact GPS location. They are generally carried by hikers, 4WDers and other people who engage in activities that isolate them from quickly being able to receive help in case of emergency.

It’s not essential to carry a PLB as a road tripper unless you plan on heading off the beaten track and will be unreachable if you need help.

Recovery Tracks

Recovery tracks are not just for 4WDers. Even if you are road tripping in a 2WD vehicle, it is still possible to find yourself stuck in damp ground at a campsite, national park or any other unsealed parking spots.

A set of plastic recovery tracks are a simple way to get out of a boggy situation if there’s no one around to pull you out.

Spare Tyre/s & Jack

Check to make sure you’ve got at least one good spare tyre for your car and another for the trailer (if applicable), plus a jack.

• Car spare tyre – inflated with plenty of tread
• Trailer spare tyre – inflated with plenty of tread

4WD Recovery Kit

If you plan to head along some unsealed roads, bush tracks and off-grid camping areas, it’s essential to add a 4WD emergency kit to your road trip checklist.

4WD Recovery Kit Contents:

• Snatch strap
• Tree trunk protector
• Extension strap
• Snatch block
• 2 x bow shackles
• Winch dampener
• Tyre deflator
• Heavy duty gloves

Road Trip Essentials – ORGANISATION

Car seat organiser.

The glove box can fill up pretty quickly with all of the bits and bobs you want to be able to grab in a hurry. Instead, use a car seat organiser. That way you can store all of the things you need to access quickly in organisational pockets. From tissues and wipes, to suncream, bug repellent, chargers and more.

If you’re travelling with kids in the back, over the seat organisers are the perfect place for them to stash their snacks, colouring books, devices and everything else that would otherwise end up on the floor.

Having a dedicated day pack is going to make life on the road so much easier. All of the items that you need with you at all times (even if you’re not in the car) should be stored in the day pack.

Day Pack Items:

• Maps/ guide books
• Water bottle

Overnight Bag

Rather than having to unpack half of you car every time to stop for the night, take an overnight bag to take into your accommodation with you. The main things that you’ll need are toiletries, towel, clothing and all of the valuables.

Packing Cubes

If you really want to maximise your storage space, roll your clothing up into packing cubes. You can easily organise clothing into either days or categories and even roll them back up once dirty and stack them back away for laundry day (or when you get home). If you want to go the extra mile, you could label each cube or colour-code for ease of use.

Roof Storage Box

A waterproof storage box on the roof provides a secondary place to store some of your road trip essentials. For items that don’t need to be accessed every day, the roof can be a good place to store them.

Rubbish Bin

A little zippered and collapsible rubbish bin for the car is the best way I’ve found to keep all of the trash locked away in one place, without fear of spillages. Here are 15 camping garbage bin ideas .

Storage Tubs

Depending on how you want to pack things, it can help to have lidded storage tubs stacked in the back of the car, labelled with what’s inside. That way, when you are making a beeline for a particular item, you can simply pull out that tub and find what you’re looking for.

Washing Bag

Have a dedicated collapsible bag for all dirty washing so that it doesn’t get mixed up with the clean clothing. Once it’s full or you can get to a laundry, just grab it and off you.

Road Trip Essentials – VEHICLE PREPARATION

Check Vehicle Fluids

Check and top up (if necessary) all of your car’s fluids.

• Windscreen wiper water
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Radiator coolant

Check Vehicle Lights

Go around and check that all of your lights are working on the car.

• Indicator & hazard lights
• Brake lights
• Additional spotlights & light bars

I recommend getting a good set of rubber floor mats for your car as a road trip essential item while travelling throughout Australia. From the outback dust, to the coastal sands and all of the mud, grass and dirt in between… it’s all going to end up embedded in your car floor carpet if you don’t cover it up!

Fuel Top Up

Fill up the car’s fuel tank/s and any jerry cans that you’re carrying for spare fuel.

• Car fuel tank/s

Phone Mount

If you need to use your phone for maps or anything else while driving, make sure you’ve got your phone sitting in a mount or cradle. It’s illegal to have your phone in your hand while driving in Australia and the police will not hesitate to fine you for it.

Spare Car Key

Packing a spare car key can be helpful in case something should happen to your usual set. Trust me, it’s not unheard of to loose the car keys somewhere along a bush walk or god knows where else!

Of course, the second key needs to be accessible, which isn’t always going to be the case. So, think of a good place for the second key – maybe in your partner’s handbag or in the caravan.

If you’re travelling through the urban areas of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, you’ll most likely find yourself travelling along some toll roads. To pay for the tolls, you’ll need a toll tag in your car (loaded up with credit), which will automatically beep and deduct the fee as you drive through the toll point.

To get a Toll Tag, which will cover you for all toll roads around Australia, head to Linkt .

Tyre Pressure

Make sure all of your tyres (including the spare) are pumped up to their recommended PSI.

Where to find correct tyre pressure for your car (if the tyres are standard size):

• Owner’s manual
• Chart attached to the inside of the car door

Ensure all tyres on the car have plenty of tread on them. If not, get your tyres changed before hitting the road. A tyre blow-out when travelling at 100km/ hr can be catastrophic.

• Legal allowable tyre tread depth in Australia – 1.5mm
• Recommended tyre tread depth in Australia – Over 3mm

Window Shades

Popping a sunshade up across the windscreen makes a massive difference with keeping the car cool during the day when you’re parked in the sun. It also keeps the steering wheel and front seats a lot cooler.

In addition, you can also get sunshades for some of the other windows to help keep the rest of the car cooler.

Vehicle Walk-around

Do a final walk around of your vehicle and trailer, just to make sure that everything is secure and looking good for travel.

Road Trip Essentials – TRAILER PREPARATION

Check Electric Brakes

Plug in the electric brake controller plug when hitching up and make sure that the light comes on (most units will light up when connected correctly).

Check Trailer Tail Lights

Get someone to stand at the back of the caravan or camper and check that the brake lights and indicators are all working as you go through them from the car.

Jerry Can Fuel

Make sure any spare fuel jerry cans that you carry on your caravan or camper are all filled up and that any old, stale fuel has been discarded. Here are all of the legalities for carrying fuel on a caravan , just so you’re aware.

• Diesel for the diesel heater
• Fuel for the car

Pack Down Inside the Trailer

Make sure inside the caravan or camper is travel-ready. If you want to be even more organised, go and grab yourself our FREE Caravan Pack Down Checklist and Planning Kit .

• Wind down TV aerial
• Lock in/ remove TV from its bracket
• Close all roof hatches
• Close & lock all windows
• Open all blinds & curtains
• Secure all loose items
• Remove bunk ladder & place onto the bottom bunk
• Lock in the shower door
• Lock in the room dividers/ doors
• Lock in the fridge & freezer doors
• Lock all cupboards & drawers

Pack Down Outside the Trailer

Make sure the exterior of the caravan or camper is travel-ready.

• Lock all cabinet & hatch doors
• Secure & lock bikes onto bike rack
• Lock entry door
• Fold entry step away
• Ensure awning is rolled away, locked & secured
• Hitch up to the tow vehicle
• Wind up stabiliser legs
• Wind up jockey wheel
• Check tail lights
• Check electric brake controller

Tyre Pressure & Tread

Make sure your caravan or camper tyres have plenty of tread on them and are at the recommended PSI. Don’t forget to also check the quality and PSI of the spare tyre as well.

Spare Caravan/ Camper Key

Sometimes, things just happen and we find ourselves in need of the spare key. Touch wood that you don’t need to use it, but having one in a secondary location may just get you out of an otherwise tricky situation.

Towing Weights

If you’re about to hit the road with a caravan or camper behind you, it’s imperative that you weigh your set-up and ensure that you’re within your legal towing weight limits.

Remember, every time you add, subtract or shift your load, your various towing weights will also change.

Helpful Information for Towing Weights: ◆  All Towing Weights Explained → ◆ 3 Ways to Work out Tow Ball Weight → ◆ Step-by-step Instructions for Weighing a Trailer →

Vehicle & Trailer Walk-around

Always do a final walk-around once you’re hitched up and ready to go. This is where you’ll often pick up if something has been forgotten to be locked, put away or secured.

Road Trip Essentials – PLANNING

Accommodation style.

The type of accommodation you will be using during your travels will largely affect what needs to be included on your road trip packing list. For example, if you will be utilising motels, then you won’t need to bother with camping gear. Alternatively, you may want to Free & Low Cost Camp, which means you may have to plan your stops around campsites that have toilets on site.

Accommodation Considerations:

• Plan camps that have amenities
• Call ahead for vacancies/ bookings with caravan parks & motels

Have an Itinerary

Whether you’re the type to have all plans laid out in a spreadsheet, or you just prefer to wing it, having at least a loose itinerary for your road trip is essential.

Road Trip Itinerary Considerations:

• Travel time frame
• Departure & return dates
• Travel budget
• Final destination (or at least direction of travel)
• ‘Must Do’ stops along the way

Plan Rest Stops

Driving for long periods can tire you out. So, every two hours you may either want to switch drivers or make pit stops for a snack, drink some water, go to the toilet and stretch your bodies. This will help you to remain alert and enjoy your time.

Check for Roadblocks & Restrictions

Roadblocks can put a damper on every road trip, which is why you need to carefully plan the route that you are going to take. Make sure that there are no road works, closures, or accidents on the way. You may want to keep yourself updated until the day you are going on the trip as well as during the trip.

In this regard, you might want to do some research on the traffic as well using Google Maps or Waze. Nothing can ruin your trip more than blockages caused by a traffic accident, which will just lead to tiredness and frustration.

Check the Weather & Road Conditions

If it’s necessary for you to leave on a less than ideal day for the weather (say, you already have your holiday leave and you can’t change it), then you may use current weather and road conditions information to make an update on your route. Not every area will have the same weather, so an alternative route may well save your trip.

If the weather has been unstable (or is expected to be), then you might expose yourself to muddy roads that are difficult to drive on, bushfires or floods. Needless to say, this can put a great question mark on your safety, which is why you may want to find out what the conditions of the road will be.

For an up-to-date look at where there are bushfires around the country, use an app such as Fires Near Me .

Download an Emergency App

We all hope that our trips will go smoothly, but one can never be too sure when disaster may strike. Inform your loved ones about where you are going, stay in contact, and just in case, download an emergency app, such as Emergency+ . While emergency numbers are excellent, apps can also work as a reliable alternative.

Pack up your Home

Your trip starts even before you leave your home. Therefore, before you begin conquering all the wonders of the Australian Outback, make sure that everything in your home is packed up and in order. 

House Packing Tips:

• Clean the bathrooms for when you get back
• Wash the bed linen for when you get back
• Vacuum the floors
• Empty all perishable food out of the fridge & pantry
• Empty all rubbish bins
• Switch off appliances
• Lock all doors & windows
• Let a neighbour know you’re going away (get them to clear mailbox & take garbage bins in & out)
• Leave jewellery and valuables in a safe place
• Leave the place looking like someone is still there
• Set the alarm

If you’re packing up for long-term travel, here are 8 tips for packing up the house .

Avoid Driving at Night

Driving at dusk, dawn or at night in Australia is not a wise move unless you absolutely can’t avoid it. Much of our native wildlife are most active during those times, but are much harder to spot, which increases the risk of having an accident and/ or adding to the roadkill.

Now, it’s over to you. Time to start planning and packing for your epic Australian road trip!

Road Trip Packing List

No matter what your accommodation style is, the Road Trip Packing List will ensure that you don’t forget a thing.

• PRINTABLE & DIGITAL

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9 thoughts on “120+ Road Trip Essentials Australia (with PDF Packing List)”

We go road tripping alllll summer usually. These are really really good tips! I love your checklist, it’s something I’ve been meaning to make because we ALWAYS. FORGET STUFF. haha Thanks for all these resources.

Haha it seems as though forgetting stuff is a regular theme. Hopefully you can get out there for some road trips this summer.

We too love road trips as they give such an immersive experience of the places you visit and pass through. But of course one needs to plan so that things run smoothly. This is a very exhaustive and good checklist and has some really interesting points like checking for wildlife.

These are all great tips! I haven’t done a major road trip for a long time but I would really like to do one later this year. Checking for pests and snakes in a caravan that hasn’t been used in a while is a great tip, and so is not driving at night. Driving on a rural road that isn’t well lit (or lit at all) can be a very mentally intensive experience even if the chance of encountering wildlife is low. I wouldn’t have thought about dawn and dusk being active times for animals, either!

Night driving really can be more mentally intense, for sure. Definitely need to thoroughly check the caravan before loading it up for the next trip!

We are big list makers so always good to see another checklist and make sure ours is complete. We sure added a few things this year with more road trips. Good advice to check your route in advance. Especially in summer around here when most of the road construction is done! We often take the smaller roads to travel slower so we can stop when safe. Good planning tips.

I love a good list myself! I think it’s going to be a big year for road trips, as people can’t head abroad. It’s always nice to be able to travel slower if you’ve got the time.

I love love loveeeee road trips and have gone on several before yet I always seem to forget something still hahaa. What a perfect checklist and such a great lifesaver. I’ll definitely have to look into that Emergency+ app!

Road trips are so much fun. Haha there’s always something that gets forgotten!

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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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Epic Australian Road Trips You Can Do Over A Weekend

Posted: September 15, 2023 | Last updated: September 15, 2023

Make tracks down under

Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Canberra to Khancoban

For rolling green mountains laced with hiking and mountain biking trails and criss-crossed with streams and rivers, head south from capital Canberra and cross into the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. First stop on the roughly four-hour drive is Cooma, the largest town in the mountains, and where you can enjoy for a host of outdoor adventures. Set by a gorgeous lake, Jindabyne is another outdoorsy town where there’s lots of fun to be had. Swap to two wheels and cycle around the Lake Jindabyne Foreshore Trail, go fishing or sign up for caving or rock-climbing tours.

Next up, follow the signs to Thredbo where you can take the chair lift up to Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Head to the summit trail for dizzying views of Thredbo Valley, then go back down to continue your journey along the Alpine Way. This dramatic stretch of road, with views of snow-capped peaks, high forests and rivers, links the southern reaches of Kosciuszko National Park to Khancoban, near the Victorian border. From here hikes into the high country lie all around: trails to the majestic Western Fall and among the plains and snow gums of the Jagungal Wilderness are highly recommended.

Northern Territory: Alice Springs to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

If it’s classic outback scenery you’re after, you won’t want to miss the 705-mile (1,135km) Red Centre Way loop from Alice Springs deep into central Australia’s desert plains, weathered mountain ranges and rocky gorges. You’ll pass some of the country’s most remarkable natural formations with plenty of places to stop off and see them in all their glory. To make the most of this spectacular route hire a four-wheel drive or if not, you can follow the longer but completely sealed 1,087-mile (1,750km) loop.

First up on the dusty road west from Alice Springs are the chasms, gorges and waterholes of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, where it's possible to find a spot for a cool dip. Kings Canyon in the Watarrka National Park is up next. Be sure to do the Rim Walk, a spectacular three-hour adventure up and into the canyon’s vast sandstone walls. You’ll have sweeping desert views and can peer into its verdant floor filled with palms and prehistoric cyads. From here it’s 186 miles (300km) to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, both sacred sites to the Anangu people, with a host of stirring walks. Head back east along the Lasseter Highway then north on the Stuart Highway back towards Alice.

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Northern Territory: Darwin to Kakadu to Katherine

Tropical city Darwin is the gateway to some of the Top End’s most epic landscapes. Immerse yourself in them on the Nature’s Way road trip, best taken over four days. The route strikes southeast from the city along the Arnhem Highway to the vast Kakadu National Park. You could spend endless days here exploring its sandstone escarpments, ogling ancient rock art at Ubirr and Burrungkuy, cruising wildlife-filled wetlands and hiking to see plunging falls and sweeping views across to Arnhem Land.

If you can tear yourself away from the wonders of Australia’s largest national park, take the road south for a two-and-a-half-hour drive along Kakadu Highway towards the town of Katherine. Revive road-weary legs at its natural thermal springs, set on the banks of the Katherine River, before heading off to discover the myriad wonders of Nitmiluk National Park, just a 30-minute drive away. Explore bushwalking tracks or cruise or kayak your way along the series of 13 gorges that are carved into the ancient sandstone.

Find out more about Australia's most beautiful national parks

Northern Territory: Darwin to Litchfield

If the often relentlessly long roads of the Top End don’t appeal, follow this easy return trip from Darwin to Litchfield National Park. Heading 75 miles (120km) southwest from the city on sealed roads, you’ll be marveling at towering magnetic termite mounds and cooling off in sparkling waterholes and under thundering cascades in less than two hours. The park is big though, with plenty to see, so plan to camp overnight to fully explore its monsoon forests, sandstone plateau, creeks and scenic pools.

Stunning waterfalls run down from the park's rugged Tabletop Range, which experienced hikers can explore on the strenuous 24-mile (39km) Tabletop Trek. Shorter routes link off it to Wangi Falls, Walker Creek and the spectacular waterfall of Florence Falls, all designated safe swimming areas. Buley Rockholes, a series of bubbling pools, are an especially delightful spot for a wallow. Litchfield is gorgeous year round, but its falls are at their most spectacular in the wet and early dry season (March to September).

South Australia: Port Augusta-Coober Pedy

If you want seclusion, red dirt, roadhouses and kangaroos, this epic 500-mile (800km) road trip is the one for you. Take the Flinders Ranges Way from Port Augusta and keep driving into the vast untouched wilderness of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges. You’ll pass historic townships like old railway town Quorn and unfathomably vast sheep stations (stop in at Rawnsley Park Station to watch sheep shearing demos or join guided walking tours) as you edge your way into the ancient sun-baked landscape.

An astonishing sweep of eroded mountain ranges, dramatic gorges, Aboriginal rock art galleries and ancient fossils, the sights you encounter in Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park will be forever etched on your mind. Take to the air to see the incredible natural marvel that is Wilpena Pound – Australia's largest salt lake Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is best seen from a height too. If you have a four-wheel drive, you can drive along part of the legendary outback Oodnadatta Track from Marree to William Creek. From there, carry on two hours west and you’ll reach underground opal mining capital Coober Pedy. Go between May and September for cooler temperatures.

South Australia: Port Lincoln to Baird Bay

The Eyre Peninsula is where the outback meets the Southern Ocean with spectacular results. Follow the Seafood Frontier road trip route to discover why this less-visited part of South Australia enchants with its sensational seafood, marine life and incredible beaches. Start in Port Lincoln, which sits on Boston Bay – the largest natural harbor in Australia and the country’s seafood capital with a huge southern bluefin tuna industry. It’s also a hub of marine adventures, including the only cage dive with great white sharks in Australia.

From here, it’s an easy 30-minute drive to Coffin Bay where you can eat its eponymous oysters straight from the water – slip on your waders and head out on an oyster farm tour. The wild beaches of Coffin Bay National Park are out of this world: from dune-backed, surf-pounded beaches to sheltered bays, they’re all gorgeous and more often than not empty. From here drive north up the west coast of the peninsula to Elliston on the shores of Waterloo Bay. Follow its eight-mile (13.6km) walking and driving coastal track, for thrilling ocean views from high windswept cliffs peppered with caves. Then head on to Baird Bay where you can swim with playful sea lions and bottlenose dolphins.

South Australia: Adelaide to the Clare Valley

As the home of some of the country’s oldest and most renowned wineries, South Australia is the state for oenophiles to navigate to. Happily, its picturesque wine regions are an easy drive from capital Adelaide (also a hot spot for wining and dining). Follow the road trip known as the Epicurean Way to get your fill of the state's top drops and gourmet delights as you spend three days meandering around the vineyards, villages, farmers' markets and restaurants of four fantastic wine regions: McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, Barossa and Clare Valley.

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Start your gourmet odyssey an hour south of Adelaide at McLaren Vale, a scenic region wedged between the rolling Mount Lofty Ranges and the Gulf St Vincent beaches. With 80 plus cellar doors, there’s plenty to fill your day. Cycle or hike along the Shiraz Trail, a five-mile (8km) former rail-trail to Willunga, stopping off to sample wines and local produce at cellar doors. Heading back north to Adelaide Hills, known for its cool-climate wines, pretty townships and lush landscapes, the route then continues onto the historic towns and gourmet hot spots of the Barossa Valley and finally the picturesque Clare Valley. Ditch the car again and pedal along the 22-mile (35km) Riesling Trail for countryside views, cellar doors and charming B&Bs.

Tasmania: Hobart to Binalong Bay

Skirting along Tasmania’s scenic east coast, this 186-mile (300km) route is best taken over four days or more. Starting at Hobart, the road goes north past dramatic coastlines peppered with stunning and often deserted beaches. The Great Eastern Drive passes four of the state's 19 national parks: Freycinet (white sands, blue waters and pink granite peaks), Douglas-Apsley (forest tracks and gorges with swimming holes), Mount William (which includes the northern section of the dramatic Bay of Fires) and, a 30-minute ferry from the fishing port of Triabunna, the wildlife haven that is Maria Island (convict-era ruins and native species including wombats and Tasmanian devils). 

Other highlights on the Great Eastern Drive are impossibly pretty Wineglass Bay on the Freycinet​ Peninsula and the extraordinary orange lichen-covered granite boulders of the Bay of Fires, where the route ends. There are plenty of places to stay and eat en route, as the road takes in charming laid-back towns (including Orford, Swansea on the Great Oyster Bay and Bicheno) and some of Tasmania's top food and wine producers.

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Tasmania: Hobart to Cockle Bay

Take the road south of Hobart instead to follow the Southern Edge road trip. After exploring the historic waterfront capital, head along the Huon Highway and out past the little coves of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, around the bucolic farms and orchards of the pretty Huon Valley and drive right to Australia’s southern-most edge for cliff-top walks and edge-of-the-world feels. This easy drive can be done in a few days, but add a few extra to hop over to Bruny Island. Take the car ferry from Kettering to wend your way around the wild little isle.

Back on the mainland, head south down the coastal road to Cygnet, hub of the Huon Valley with the D'Entrecasteaux Channel on one side and the Huon River on the other. From here you can pootle around farm gates and roadside stalls to sample its famed apples, pears and ciders. From here, head to Cockle Bay to explore Tasmania's secluded southwest wilderness where quite literally the next stop is Antarctica. Park at the end of Australia’s most southerly road and follow the South Coast Track through woods and bushland to the cliffs above South Cape Bay. This four-hour hike will certainly stretch your legs before you head back to Hobart.

Tasmania: Cradle Mountain to Queenstown

After exploring the spectacular scenery of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake in Tasmania's Central Highlands, take the road less traveled into the island's western wilds. Turning west onto the C132, you’ll cross a stretch of wild open moorland, then head south onto the Murchison Highway. You’ll pass through former mining towns (Tullah and Rosebery) and remote settlements with a convict past that sit on the edge of the vast World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness Area that cloaks much of the island's west. 

Stop in small town Zeehan to learn about the region’s rich history at the West Coast Heritage Centre and Pioneers Museum and climb Mount Zeehan for sweeping west coast views. Then stretch your legs on the wild windswept expanse of Ocean Beach before driving 40 minutes south to harborside town Strahan. Now a tourist hub, cruises go into the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and to notorious convict station Sarah Island. From here, you could either catch the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway through the rainforest to Queenstown, once the world's richest mining town, or wind along the twisty mountainous road to explore its heritage buildings and visit former mines.

Queensland: Gold Coast to Bundaberg

Sun- and fun-filled days are a given on the 273-mile (440km) Great Sunshine Way, which stretches north from the buzzy Gold Coast along Queensland's subtropical coastline via Brisbane to Bundaberg. As well as sun-drenched beaches at every turn, you’ll see koalas and whales, eat in fantastic restaurants and pass stunning national parks. Start the trip on a high note by hitting the theme parks of the Gold Coast or learning to surf at Surfers Paradise then hit the M1, AKA Great Sunshine Way.

Spend a night or two in buzzy Brisbane: take the riverside walk and head to Fortitude Valley for hip bars and restaurants. More top food spots and blissful beaches await 90 miles (144km) north in upscale beach town Noosa. Follow the track through Noosa National Park to the headland where koalas are often spotted, and whales pass by. Didn’t spot any? Continue on the road 115 miles (185km) north to Hervey Bay. Around 10,000 humpback whales visit here every year on their annual migration between July and November. Next stop is Bundaberg, where a well-deserved rum awaits your arrival. Take a tour of its famed Bundaberg Rum Distillery.

Queensland: Noosa to Hervey Bay

There are beach roads and then there are actual beach roads. Follow the 236-mile (380km) Great Beach Drive to quite literally track your way along the sand on Queensland's sandy highways. Start in Noosa, where you’ll need to hire a four-wheel drive (make sure the right vehicle access permits are included), then cross Noosa River on the vehicle ferry at Tewantin. From here, take the third beach access road and hit the sands. You’ll go through the Great Sandy Strait Biosphere – stop at Teewah Beach to marvel at its multicolored sand cliffs then carry on north on the Leisha Track to cut through the sand dunes to the small coastal resort of Rainbow Beach. 

Stay overnight at seaside resort Rainbow Beach before you take the vehicle barge over to the southern end of World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) for a mind-blowing drive along its 75 Mile Beach. This amazing sand highway runs along the island's eastern coast. Park at little township Eurong and head off on foot to explore or keep driving north to Lake Wabby, Eli Creek, the SS Maheno shipwreck, Indian Head (pictured) and Champagne Pools. Camp overnight then track inland to Kingfisher Bay on its west coast to catch the Fraser Island Barge across to River Heads, a 20-minute drive away from Hervey Bay.

Queensland: Cairns to Cooktown

After enjoying the sights above and below the waves in Cairns, hit the Captain Cook Highway for a seriously scenic 87-mile (140km) drive along the far north Queensland coast to Cape Tribulation. With white sand, blue waters and offshore islands on one side and emerald-green rainforest on the other, it’s a feast for the eyes. Stop off for lunch or the night at pretty resort Palm Cove, then head on to Port Douglas. This buzzy tropical town has great restaurants, bars and shops and is a top place to head out on boat trips to the outer Great Barrier Reef or to little islands for snorkeling.

Use Port Douglas as a base for exploring the many wonders of Daintree National Park, before taking the vehicle ferry across the Daintree River to Cow Bay. From here it’s a 30-minute stretch to Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the Coral Sea with spectacular effect. Four-wheel drives only can continue from Emmagen Creek north along the scenic but challenging Bloomfield Track to Cooktown (where Captain James Cook came ashore after HMS Endeavour ran aground on the reef). Be sure to visit its museum and take a tour with Indigenous Australian guides to visit the Quinkan Rock Art. Decorating sandstone escarpments near small town Laura, these are one of the best collections of prehistoric rock art in the world.

Queensland: Gold Coast to the Scenic Rim

Queensland isn’t all reef and beach as you’ll discover on this inland route, which winds around the unfathomably picturesque Scenic Rim. The volcanic region encompasses six national parks, World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, towering mountains, sleepy villages and farmland. Within less than an hour of leaving Gold Coast’s high-rises, you’ll be meandering along narrow roads into lush cool hills and through lovely country towns. Start at North Tamborine on Tamborine Mountain where you can take the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, tour glow worm caves and stock up on local treats from its many distilleries, vineyards and food producers.

Itching to explore the walking trails? Head south through the rainforest-cloaked mountains towards Lamington National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. In this park alone, 90 miles (160km) of hiking trails lead to no less than 500 waterfalls. For sweeping views of the Lost World plateau (a green shelf on Razorback Mountain), strike out on the Moonlight Crag walk or if time is short get up among the trees on the park's suspension bridge walk. From here, drive west towards Rathdowney to explore the trails that wrap around the rugged peaks and rainforests of Mount Barney National Park.

Victoria: Torquay to Allansford

Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is hands down one of the world’s best driving routes. Officially starting in Torquay and ending at Allansford to the west, the route twists 151 miles (243km) along the Southern Ocean passing surf towns, wild beaches and striking rock formations, before heading inland through undulating rainforest. From Torquay, head to Bells Beach (famed surf spot), Anglesea, Aireys Inlet (take a tour of historic Split Point Lighthouse for thrilling views) and spend the night at lovely beach town Lorne. Stroll to Teddy’s Lookout for more spectacular views and be sure to visit Erskine Falls.

Some of the road’s most coast-hugging sections follow on the drive to Apollo Bay: pull over at the lookouts to peer down to the crashing waves below. You’re likely to spot koalas as you drive, but if you don’t, follow the Grey River Road walk in Kennett River, home to a large population of wild koalas – it's halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay. After the latter, the road veers into the Great Otway National Park (stop for rainforest strolls and thundering waterfalls) before winding back to the coast and past the famous rock formations of Port Campbell National Park – the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch.

Victoria: Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula

With its rolling hills, wineries, sleepy villages and hot springs, the Mornington Peninsula offers the best of both countryside and coast and is where Melburnians go to recharge. Framed by two spectacular coastlines, the peninsula has dramatic surf beaches and sheltered bays, and is scattered with artsy seaside towns. Take the M3 Eastlink Toll Road from the city and in an hour you could be gazing at the region from the top of Arthurs Seat, soaking in the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs or picking up a pinot from its vineyards.

Pootle around the wineries and award-winning restaurants of the Red Hill and Main Ridge regions. Then for beach time head to Mount Martha, Rosebud and Portsea, all pretty bays backed by colorful beach huts. Scenic seaside town Sorrento near the western tip is a lovely base with plenty to do. From here, you can head towards Point Nepean at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula: the views across the Bass Strait, the Rip and Port Phillip Bay are mind blowing, as are the walking trails that wind around its old military forts, tunnels and Quarantine Station.

Victoria: Wangaratta to Metung

Head into Victoria’s lofty mountain ranges on the Great Alpine Road for a dose of crisp mountain air and big sky views. The route stretches from Wangaratta through the Ovens Valley to Harrietville, up and over the alpine resort of Mount Hotham, then down again to the coastal village of Metung on the Gippsland Lakes. Covering 211 miles (339km) in total, this drive takes you along Australia's highest year-round accessible sealed road. As well as soaring peaks and plunging valleys, you’ll pass Gold Rush-era towns, thick forests, undulating vineyards and wildlife-rich waterways.

Head south of Wangaratta to explore Milawa (known for its great food) and Beechworth, a characterful 19th-century gold rush town, then head up into Mount Buffalo National Park. Here, walking tracks lead to hulking granite formations, waterfalls and lofty lookouts across the Australian Alps. It’s a hub of outdoor activities in both summer and winter. After stopping in charming country town Bright, ascend into Victoria's highest Alpine village, Mt Hotham. Danny's Lookout is the place to admire it all. You could tackle the Razorback Trail to the summit of Mount Feathertop or descend to the lush farmlands and historic buildings of Omeo. The last leg of this drive along the Great Alpine Road takes you to Metung, gateway to the gorgeous Gippsland Lakes. 

Western Australia: Perth to Exmouth

The 800-mile (1,250km) Coral Coast Highway from Perth to Exmouth is one of Australia’s ultimate campervan routes, skirting past some of the state’s most spectacular coastal scenery, otherworldly wonders and wildlife encounters, with some brilliant campsites en route. One of the first major stops after leaving Perth is the Pinnacles Desert, followed by the coastal city of Geraldton and onto the rugged landscape of Kalbarri National Park – well worth a stopover for hikes around its plunging gorges and to take the new Kalbarri Skywalk on the rim of Murchison Gorge for dizzying views. 

Next up are the wonders of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area: stroll across Shell Beach, meet the dolphins of Monkey Mia and see some of the oldest living organisms on the planet, the stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. From here it’s back on the North West Coastal Highway to Carnarvon and Coral Bay, where you can swim straight from the beach and out onto the Ningaloo Reef, the world’s longest fringing coral reef. Cape Range National Park just outside Exmouth is a suitably show-stopping end point with its ocher-colored gorges and reef-fringed turquoise lagoons. Go between March to July, if you can, and you’ll be there when whale sharks arrive to feed on plankton. 

Western Australia: Derby to Kununurra

The 410-mile (660km) Gibb River Road is one of Australia’s most legendary four-wheel drive routes, cutting through some of its most remarkable scenery. Accessible only between April and October, the challenging track (which has been sealed in sections recently) is a short cut between Derby in the west Kimberley and Kununurra in the east, taking drivers into the heart of the northern Kimberley plateau. You can do the full route, best taken over 12 days, or explore parts on a long weekend.

However far along the route you go, you're in for a truly breathtaking journey through sunburnt sandstone ranges, rivers and boab-dotted savannah country. There are plenty of places to sleep along the way, from camps to luxury lodges on unfeasibly large cattle stations like Drysdale River Station and Home Valley Station, as well as El Questro Wilderness Park. Cool off from dusty drives in sparkling waterholes, hike to dazzling gorges like Adcock Gorge (passing ancient rock art along bush tracks) and feel dwarfed by the majestic orange cliffs of the Cockburn Range.

Western Australia: Perth to Esperance

Follow the road south alongside the Indian Ocean from Perth in southern Western Australia for wildlife, wines, white-sand beaches, waves and towering trees. This is the epic South West Edge road trip that takes in some of the state’s most extraordinary landscapes. First up is go-to gourmet destination Margaret River, famed for its wineries, farmers' markets and surf-pounded beaches. Be sure to walk some of the spectacular coastal stretch that runs from the wind-lashed lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin.

If time allows, follow the road on as it curves around onto Western Australia’s southern coast. Stop to hike through the tingle trees in the Walpole-Nornalup National Park forest – these giant eucalypts are found nowhere else on Earth – and swim in the gorgeous Greens Pool in William Bay National at Denmark. More epic coastal scenery follows on Hamersley Drive, a scenic route that wends through Fitzgerald River National Park to Hopetoun. From here, it’s two hours to Esperance, on the edge of Cape Le Grand National Park, where resident kangaroos can be seen hopping about Lucky Bay’s gleaming sand.

Western Australia: Dalwallinu to Geraldton

Western Australia’s Northern Wheatbelt region is glorious road-trip territory at any time of the year, but go from July to October and you’ll be there when the landscape bursts into bloom during the wildflower season. Follow the Wildflower Way from Dalwallinu, a quiet farming town, and head 192 miles (309km) north to Geraldton, passing through traditional townships along the way. One of the first spots you’ll reach is Petrudor Rocks where you can see everlastings, wattles and wild orchids around the pools and granite formations.

Heading onwards, visit Wubin, Buntine Rock, Latham or Caron Dam before arriving at the Wheatbelt town of Perenjori, heart of the wildflower region where pink, yellow and white everlastings carpet the countryside in spring. There’s plenty to do in the sheep-and-wheat farming town, including walking trails – follow the one to John Forrest Lookout for incredible views of the surrounding station country. Carry on north along the Wubin Mullewa Highway to Morawa, Mullewa and finally, breezy coastal city Geraldton, all with their own picturesque wildflower sites.

New South Wales: Sydney to Shoalhaven

Stretching 87 miles (140km) south from Sydney, the Grand Pacific Drive is a blockbuster of a coastal route. First up is the Royal National Park, the oldest in Australia, with its walking trails to wild beaches. The highway continues south, over the famously photogenic Sea Cliff Bridge, which bends around towering cliffs and past the coastal towns of Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama. Stay overnight here and follow the Kiama Coastal Walk to see its famous blowhole, surf beaches and pretty bays – the lesser known Little Blowhole lies further south.

Australia's most stunning coastal towns

New South Wales: Sydney to Southern Highlands

From Sydney, take the Hume Highway 70 miles (112km) southwest to Bowral, the largest town in the Southern Highlands. Bowral is packed with genteel shops and gourmet restaurants and cricket fans will love the Bradman Museum (you can also visit his childhood home). This rural region is all rolling green hills and farmlands, scattered with charming villages and cellar doors. Just to the west of Bowral lies historic township Berrima, home to the oldest continuously licensed pub in Australia, the Surveyor General Inn. Take the river walk and call in at the Bendooley Estate for wine tasting and book browsing (it has an amazing book barn). 

The region has over 60 vineyards that specialize in cool-climate varieties and 15 cellar doors – follow the wine trail to visit some of the best. It has beautiful bushland and waterfall walks too (keep an eye out for koalas). A couple of hours south of Berrima is Morton National Park, where you should walk to Fitzroy Falls before heading northeast for more stunning waterfalls and kayaking adventures in Kangaroo Valley – you'll cross over the gorgeous 19th-century Hampden Bridge. Then drive east towards the coast via picturesque Berry to join the stunning Grand Pacific Drive north back towards Sydney.

New South Wales: Sydney to the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains can easily be visited in a day from Sydney but make a long weekend of it to see more of the incredible region. Head out along the Great Western Highway from Sydney to Leura and Katoomba, two charming towns in the upper mountains and where most visitors gravitate. Echo Point Lookout is the place to go to see the Three Sisters, the dramatic sandstone peaks that soar over Jamison Valley. At Scenic World you can take the cable car across the valley or head down on the world's steepest railway to explore the trails below. 

Continue the short distance on the Great Western Highway towards Blackheath, then take the winding Megalong Valley Road through rainforest to explore this lovely pastoral valley with its delightful tearooms and horse-riding trails. Back on the highway, stop off at Hassan’s Walls (the highest lookout in the Greater Blue Mountains), and follow the winding road down to the mesmerizing Jenolan Caves, said to be the most ancient caverns in the world. From here wend your way back the way you came or go via Bilpin instead and through the Hawkesbury region to stop off at historic riverside settlements and national parks – and try your hand at kayaking – before heading south down the Pacific Highway back to Sydney.

New South Wales: Sydney to Blueys Beach

There's a reason this long-distance road-trip north from Sydney to Byron Bay is named the Legendary Pacific Coast drive. The full route is 497 miles long (800km) and passes surf towns, historic cities and wildlife-rich national parks, but you can get a taste of it along a three-hour section from Sydney to Blueys Beach in mid-north coast. Once you’ve crossed the Hawkesbury River, and weaved past the Central Coast’s beachside towns (Ettalong Beach, Terrigal and The Entrance), you'll reach cool coastal city Newcastle. From here, a detour to sample semillon and shiraz in the Hunter Valley is very much recommended. 

Next stop is Port Stephens – a huge sweep of a bay known for its giant sand dunes, dolphin tours and koala habitats. From here, head up along the Pacific Highway towards the mid-north coast, taking the exit onto the Lakes Way to the Great Lakes region. There are seven dazzling beaches to hop between, including surfer's hangout Blueys, Boomerang and Elizabeth Beach (part of Booti Booti National Park) and three coastal lagoon systems, including the magnificent Myall Lakes, to explore.

Now take a look at 40 of Australia's most stunning natural wonders

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The Aussie couple who drove around Australia - and the $32 Kmart item that made it work

By Jemima Skelley | 3 days ago

It's become so commonplace for retired Aussies to jump into a campervan and explore the country that there's even a name for it - grey nomads. 

And that's exactly how you could describe Melbourne couple Trevor and Mary. 

But instead of a caravan , they chose to make their lives a lot easier (and their trip a lot cheaper) by doing so in an SUV.

READ MORE: Best Aussie road trip loops just outside the city

For over three and a half months, Trevor and Mary covered 22,109 kilometres across 53 highways, encountering iconic landmarks such as the Nullabor, Gibb River Road, The Savannah Way, The Bloomfield Track, The Waterfall Way, and Black Stump Way.

"We often go overseas for our holidays," says Trevor, but after getting a taste of Australia on a short Queensland road trip, they were keen to see more of it.

In 2022, the perfect opportunity came up. "We had an opportunity to buy a Subaru Outback from a friend of ours," says Mary. 

For them, it was perfect. "We didn't want to spend $150,000 or whatever, we didn't want to tow a big caravan. We didn't want to pay for that petrol!"

"So we thought, let's try an all-wheel drive. Let's give it a shot!"

READ MORE: The Hunter Valley is a great place to visit with kids - here's how to make it work

Their Outback got them 100 kilometres to seven litres of petrol, and the all-wheel drive feature of the car meant that no roads were off limits - which can sometimes be an obstacle in outback Australia. 

As well as saving money, using a car also made their journey a lot more comfortable. 

"We like a bit of comfort," laugh the couple, who are both in their early 70s.

Along the way, they stayed in accommodation across the country, ranging from glamping tents to hotels, cabins, motels, guest houses, resorts, apartments, homesteads, and even on a winery. 

Trevor and Mary completed their epic journey around Australia for a total cost of $38,000, indulging in 4-star-plus accommodations and dining out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner nearly every day. 

Though they haven't fully crunched the numbers, it certainly cost them less than it would to buy a campervan, pay for extra fuel, and campground fees. 

READ MORE: 48 hours in the Mornington Peninsula: Melbourne's favourite weekend getaway

"And didn't we didn't hold back," Mary said. "We went on three or four airplane rides. We swam with whales. We went on boat cruises."

One of the things they attribute to the success of their trip? A $32 electric skillet from Kmart.

"We decided that we didn't want fish and chips or chicken parm every night of the week," Mary said.

When they felt like eating in, they'd set up the skillet - usually on a balcony to avoid setting off the fire alarm. "I've cooked everything in that pan," Mary said. 

Once, the couple had to cook dinner in the bathroom while it was raining, as the shower's exhaust fan was the only way to air out the hotel room. 

Subaru Australia's television series, Great Australian Detour, airing Saturdays on Channel 9 or on 9now serves as an inspiration for Australians to veer off the beaten path and explore the vast beauty of their homeland, just as Trevor and Mary did.

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10 replies to this topic

1. Yes, absolutely.

Some nervous nellies may wish to warn you to dare not drive after sunset and before sunrise due to wildlife wandering onto roads, but as with any country driving, at any time of day or night, it is a question of driving with care and observing all signs and speed limits, and resting during long drives.

That's a 2,000km drive - how long do you have for this trip ? A rental SUV will give you more room.

Sounds like a great trip!

Honestly, while I haven’t done that route, I’d say a 2wd would be fine.

Check out Cowra POW camp, Japanese gardens and some wineries in the region.

Sounds like a nice trip. Plenty to see and do around Dubvegas and lots of good motels too if you need a recommendation - please ask. Be sure to stop in at Mudgee as well. Fantastic wine country.

Agree with #1.

If you like walking/hiking, allow a couple of nights for the Warrumbungles NP (near Coonabarabran). The Grand High Tops is a wonderful walk (15km, all day) and Fans Horizon is also brilliant (2 hours).

Sawn Rocks in Mt Kaputar NP (near Narrabri) is worth a detour, and continuing through Bingara to Warialda is a really pretty drive.

It would be useful for us in providing some context to responses if you add your home town/city & country to your profile, please.

I know that route pretty well, would not even consider any part of it (1) unsafe* or (2) requiring anything other than a normal sedan, which is what I drive.

*I'm curious as to what you might imagine that would constitute a lack of safety?

As Pietr says, some smaller roads may have potholes or crumbling edges of the bitumen, but for the most part you'll be on highways/freeways. If there is heavy rain, just be careful of dips on smaller roads and of course, “if it’s flooded, forget it”.

September is Spring here and a lovely time to be in Australia. If you have the time, your route offers lots of interesting and varied things to see & do. How long do you have for this part of your trip & where else are you planning to go while you’re here?

Here’s my favourite map of Australia: Australia – size map: https://www.virtualoceania.net/australia/maps/how-big-is-australia.shtml

Some info on Sydney .

Sydney map: https://goo.gl/maps/PFmeA45BAKXruh4F8

Visit Sydney: https://www.sydney.com/

Visit NSW is a good resource – use the drop down boxes for information on various regions. https://www.visitnsw.com/

The local Information Centres in country towns are usually a great resource, too.

Here’s the link for Canberra : https://visitcanberra.com.au/

In Canberra, the annual Floriade festival is on 14 September to 13 October. https://floriadeaustralia.com/

Floriade is in Canberra city and better known – but a friend & I preferred Tulip Top Gardens which is just out of town. https://www.tuliptopgardens.com.au/

If your dates work, I can thoroughly recommend a visit – perhaps take a picnic lunch.

In the same vein, the Canberra Arboretum is also well worth a visit. https://www.nationalarboretum.act.gov.au/

Just checking: Do you have your Visas approved? If not, apply now – use the Australian Government app on your iphone

VISA FINDER: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder

Sounds a fun trip.

If you have time for it and the budget, I thoroughly recommend the Zoofari stay at the Wetsren Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Pay the extra fro a lodge that has a direct view of the Savannah.

I wrote a review of my stay in Dubbo last November in the Dubbo forum that included my wonderful zoo experience.

As per sweetbiscuit. Get to your destinations by mid late afternoon. Avoid country driving at night to cancel out risks of animal hits. You don’t need that, the animal doesn’t need that.

Besides, you can’t see the countryside.

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CB City's Active Seniors Games and Wellness and Reablement Expo | Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre, Belmore Road North, Riverwood NSW, Australia

Experience the excitement of CB City's Active Seniors Games and Wellness and Reablement Expo in Riverwood. The event will take place on July 1, 2024, at the Morris Iemma Indoor Sports Centre, located at 150 Belmore Road North, Riverwood, NSW 2210. Join this unique opportunity to engage in activities promoting wellness and reablement for seniors. Tickets will be available for purchase starting on June 10 at 6:30 AM. Don't miss out on this chance to participate in a day filled with fun, games, and valuable information on maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.

Provided by ShevaunSofia | Published May 4, 2024

Are you interested in CB City's Active Seniors Games and Wellness and Reablement Expo?

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What to watch tonight, from Elisabeth Moss thriller The Veil to Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story

The ABC Entertainment team has done the hard yards for you and found no less than *six* shows and films that are very good and new to streaming for you to watch tonight.

Let us tell you about…

• Elisabeth Moss's shapeshifting performance in new spy thriller The Veil
• HBO's new miniseries The Sympathizer , starring Robert Downey Jr and Hoa Uranide
• How real-life fear is blended with horror film sensibilities in Them: The Scare
• Conan O'Brien being a comedic Swiss Army knife in Conan O'Brien Must Go
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• A whole lot of hair in Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story

The Veil — Disney+

Nicola Heath

The Veil, an international spy thriller from Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders), opens with a stilettoed Elisabeth Moss striding through a private airport lounge, where she coolly informs the waiting man (in an English accent) that she is not who he believes she is — and Interpol is on the way.

Moss is Imogen Salter, an undercover MI6 agent, whose next assignment takes her to a snow-covered refugee camp on the Turkish-Syrian border where Adilah El Idrissi (Yumna Marwan), a suspected ISIS fighter, is being kept under guard. The woman is believed to be the Djinn al Raqqa, one of the few female ISIS commanders, and is considered extremely dangerous.

Imogen leaves the camp with Adilah, ostensibly to transport her to another refugee camp, but the pair soon make for Paris via Istanbul. On the ensuing road trip — think Homeland meets Thelma and Louise — the women exchange stories as Imogen tries to establish Adilah's identity and where her allegiance lies.

While their rapport appears genuine, just what is true and what is not remains unclear. The Djinn al Raqqa is known as a shapeshifter, and the enigmatic Imogen proves similarly elusive, easily switching between personas and languages and showing a propensity for going rogue.

In Paris, the intrigue deepens. Malik Amar (Dali Benssalah) is Imogen's handler at France's international security agency — and her lover, to complicate matters — and his rival is Max Peterson (Josh Charles), a gung-ho CIA agent. Imogen plays the rival intelligence agencies off against each other as they jostle for supremacy.

The stakes are raised when new intelligence reveals a major attack on an unknown western target is coming in seven to 10 days. Imogen seeks to reveal Adilah's secrets while also battling her own personal demons in a classic — and captivating — race against time.

For fans of: The Americans, Killing Eve, Mr & Mrs Smith.

The Sympathizer — Foxtel/Binge

Jared Richards

Based on the 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen, this seven-part spy thriller is a sharp, complex and surprisingly funny look at how the Vietnam/American war has been simplified in western depictions.

Created by South Korean auteur Park Chan-wook with actor-writer Don McKellar, it's a stylish, tense drama following the Captain (Australian Hoa Xuande; Ronny Chieng: International Student), a North Vietnamese spy who is sent to America after the fall of Saigon to go undercover as a South Vietnamese refugee.

He keeps eyes on potential militia efforts within the community and, later, via his CIA links, consults on an American film set during the war, mirroring the infamously chaotic production of Apocalypse Now. We hear his story of subterfuge as recounted at a Vietnamese prison, the Captain having been captured upon his return.

The Captain is not a calculated, emotionless spy or killing machine: He is a sympathiser to all he comes across and crosses, refusing to relegate the war to a simple narrative or view anyone solely as an enemy. Allegiances are unclear and emotions divided, especially as he enters a relationship with Ms Mori (Sandra Oh), a Japanese-American with little knowledge of his past.

Another layer: The Captain is marked an outsider by all thanks to glowing green eyes inherited from his French father, plus college years spent in America. In his own words, "I am half and half. Biracial, bilingual, a synthesis of incompatibilities." It's a meaty role masterfully played by Xuande (his first major US part, after years of bouncing around Australian TV).

The Sympathizer's heavy first episode, set before the Captain arrives in America, may put off viewers, but things lighten in large part thanks to Robert Downey Jr, who plays the various powerful, ridiculous white men the Captain encounters. His casting in multiple roles is the most obvious part of the show's intent to flip the perspective on western views of the war: If the US is going to flatten nuances, two can play at that game, with these antagonists essentially interchangeable symbols of American arrogance.

For fans of: The Little Drummer Girl, The Americans, Slow Horses.

Them: The Scare — Prime Video

Velvet Winter

Them: The Scare is not for the faint-hearted. Not just because it is fantastically frightening in a classic horror way, but because of how it anchors that horror in real-life atrocities that unfortunately still exist after the show finishes.

The Scare is the second entry in the Them catalogue, following on from 2021's retroactively named Them: Covenant, and creator Little Marvin brings the same twisted malice to the horror anthology's second offering.

Covenant was set in a 50s America grappling with segregation, but The Scare flashes forward to 1991, in an LA that's dealing with the devastating aftermath of the Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) assault on Rodney King.

The Scare follows Dawn Reeve (Deborah Ayorinde), a detective in the LAPD who's hot on the trail of a serial killer who leaves their victims in such an extreme condition they don't even look human anymore. But Reeve's white co-workers don't believe there's even a killer on the loose, content to pin the grisly crimes on local Black youths.

And while the traditional horror visuals are eerie, the sadistic scenes featuring the outwardly racist cops Reeve walks alongside are what will really turn stomachs. In the end, it doesn't matter if the action on screen is the work of supernatural forces or police intimidation — the feeling you're left with is one of overwhelming dread that bad things are going to happen to innocent people.

It's a tough watch. But rewarding and raw performances from Ayorinde and Luke James make it a worthwhile one.

For fans of: American Horror Story, American Crime Story, Get Out.

Conan O'Brien Must Go — Foxtel/Binge

James Brennan

Conan O'Brien can't stop. There's even a whole documentary about it: 2011's Conan O'Brien Can't Stop. It follows a national tour he called "The Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour", after he was dramatically and unceremoniously pushed out of NBC's The Tonight Show in 2010, having only spent a year in the prime-time slot.

That little nugget of info pretty much captures the essence of this man. He's extremely adept at adapting his comedic skill set to the framework of his chosen (or allowed) medium. In Conan O'Brien Must Go, he's dipping back into his travel show bag with a bigger budget than ever.

If you're a fan of O'Brien, you'll very much get a kick out of this manic journey across the globe. There are four episodes, each set in a different country. O'Brien's goals for each episode are as follows:

• 1. To have you watch the episode
• 2. Laugh at his fish-out-of-water chaos
• 3. Learn absolutely nothing about the place

If you're not on board the gravy train at this point, you still may get a kick out of it. O'Brien and his team are comedy veterans, and they're making extremely well-produced episodes, with sketches, running gags and sharp writing among the improvised travel moments.

For fans of: Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons.

Such Brave Girls — Stan

Katherine Smyrk

In the opening credits of this show, the words Such Brave Girls, formed out of dark and tangled pubic hair, slide slowly down a bathroom wall.

Such Brave Girls is not for the faint-hearted: If you are easily grossed out or deeply unamused by crude and cringe-y humour, this is maybe not one for you.

But if you like your humour jet-black, inappropriate, and unabashedly roasting dramatic and selfish young people (and their parents), then get ready to laugh until it hurts a bit.

The show follows Josie, a deeply depressed and closeted lesbian whose sad face has been known to impact people's libidos. Her sister Billie is an awful person, really — a caricature of vacuous gen Z, in all the best ways (I was screaming when she home-bleaches her hair to impress a boy, vomiting from the pain). They're both still hoping the maternal instinct will kick in for their single mother Deb, but it doesn't seem likely.

The trio are trying to keep their lives together after their father and husband went out for teabags and never came back, with their hopes pinned on Deb's odd and clueless new boyfriend, who has "a really big house".

Get ready for the three women being truly awful to each other and everyone else, deadpan jokes about depression that will have you spitting out your drink, someone getting an abortion while dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West and lines like: "Ask any woman, none of us likes dick. This not something you enjoy, it's something you get through."

For fans of: Why Are You Like This, All My Friends Are Racist , Girls, The Inbetweeners.

Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story — Disney+

Anastasia Safioleas

Pretty boys in make-up, torn T-shirts and leather pants, stadium shows with over-the-top pyrotechnics, big major label deals, even bigger hair – everything was epic in the early 80s glam metal scene.

This four-part documentary on perhaps the most successful glam-pop metal band of all time – Bon Jovi – is a nostalgic, mostly poignant, trek back in time. Grainy archival footage of concert performances and TV interviews are peppered throughout as frontman Jon Bon Jovi tells his story.

He talks about how in the early 80s you were either a post-disco new wave kid, or a glam metal freak. And about how the latter was especially huge, with bands such as Mötley Crüe, Ratt, Twisted Sister and Quiet Riot riding high on the radio airwaves.

It was against this backdrop that a young John Bongiovi Jr and his covers band emerged; they were regulars at live venues in New Jersey's Asbury Park, alongside Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny. They would eventually morph into Bon Jovi, going on to become one of the biggest bands in the world.

Forty years on and now in his 60s, Bon Jovi is greyer, wiser and battling serious vocal issues. You get the distinct feeling he misses his younger, wilder days. The melancholy is tangible.

Still, despite the wistful reflection, the four episodes — ranging in length from an hour to an hour-and-a-half long — are a wild ride.

For fans of: McCartney 3, 2, 1; Metallica: Some Kind of Monster; Springsteen on Broadway.

Honourable new-to-streaming mentions:

• Fallout — Prime Video : A surprisingly funny adaptation of the beloved video game that actually hits the mark .
• Dead Boy Detectives — Netflix : Two teenagers who happen to be ghosts investigate supernatural crimes in this paranormal detective comedy.
• Swift Street — SBS on Demand : A fast, funny and deep father-daughter heist escapade, set in Melbourne .
• The Jinx — Part Two  — Foxtel/Binge : The next instalment of the Emmy Award-winning series The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst , from Andrew Jarecki.
• Our Living World — Netflix : A beautifully shot four-part nature series about how we're all interconnected, narrated in soul-soothing dulcet tones by Cate Blanchett.
• X (formerly Twitter)

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