Planning the great Australian road trip or Big Lap?
Congratulations, if you’ve decided to hit the road and explore the stunning place, towns landscapes of Australia. You are in the right place if you’re planning the iconic Big Lap, diving into the rugged Outback, or cruising along the endless coastline. But here’s the million-dollar question I see popping up in our Facebook groups all the time:
“Does anyone have an itinerary for [insert dream destination here]?”
While it’s tempting to just grab someone else’s route and run with it, the truth is, the best itinerary is the one you create yourself. Why? Because no two road trips are the same! Your interests, travel style, budget, and time frame will all shape your perfect adventure.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to plan a road trip itinerary that’s tailored just for you. From deciding where to go, to making sure you’ve got enough time for those spontaneous detours, I’ve got you covered.
1. Know Your “Why”: What Do You Want from This Australian Road Trip?
Before you even pull out a map or fire up Waze or other road trip app, take a minute to think about why you’re hitting the road. Are you chasing wide-open spaces and freedom? Hoping to tick off bucket-list destinations? Maybe it’s all about quality family time, or escaping the daily grind.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Do I want to explore iconic sights or hidden gems?
- Am I more into beaches, the bush, or bustling towns?
- Do I prefer packed days of sightseeing or slow, laid-back travel?
- Is this about adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both?
Why this matters: Knowing your why helps you prioritise what matters most—whether that’s spending a few months lounging in Darwin or tackling as many national parks as you can in a month.
2. Start with Your Bucket List (But Stay Flexible!)
Once you’ve nailed down your why, it’s time for the fun part—dreaming! Jot down all the must-see places you’ve been itching to visit. These could be famous landmarks like Uluru, remote coastal towns like Esperance, a visit to Horizontal Falls, or quirky outback pubs in the middle of nowhere.
Tip: Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to fit everything in. Australia’s massive, and you’re not going to see it all in one trip—and that’s totally okay.
Pro Tip: Use online resources like All Around Oz, Instagram, and apps like WikiCamps or Camps Australia or Campedia to find inspiration. But remember, these are just guides, they are not gospel!
3. Map It Out: Choosing Your Route and Direction of Travel
Now that you’ve got a list of places you’d love to visit, it’s time to map out how to connect the dots.
Decide on Your Route:
- Clockwise or Counterclockwise? If you’re doing the Big Lap, this is a common question. Clockwise means you’ll start by heading north, counterclockwise takes you south first. The weather can play a big role here. Head north in winter and you’ll avoid the tropical wet season. And the cold down south.
- Big Lap or Out-and-Back? Maybe you’re planning a big lap around a specific state or doing a more focused trip, like Sydney to Cairns and back.
Consider Travel Times and Distances:
Australia’s big, like really big. Something that you will realise after a few months on the road.
What looks like a short drive on the map could be a full day (or more) on the road. Always allow more time than you think you’ll need, especially if you’re towing a caravan.
Bonus Tip: Factor in road condition. Some routes might be sealed highways, while others could be dirt tracks or 4WD-only. Make sure your rig can handle it!
4. Timing is Everything: When to Go and How Long to Stay
Pick the Best Season for Your Route:
Australia’s climate varies wildly, so planning your trip around the weather can make a huge difference.
- North (e.g., Darwin, Cairns): Best visited in the dry season (May to October).
- South (e.g., Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania): Great in the warmer months (November to March).
- Outback: Cooler months (April to September) are ideal to avoid extreme heat.
How Much Time Do You Need?
Whether you’ve got a few weeks, a few months, or a whole year, or, like us, you are travelling indefinitely, it’s all about pacing.
- Short Trips (1-4 weeks): Focus on one region to avoid feeling rushed.
- Longer Laps (6-12 months): Plan for slow travel, with time to explore off-the-beaten-path places.
- Forever Nomads: No itinerary needed, just follow the road wherever it leads!
Leave Wiggle Room:
The best part of road-tripping is the freedom to change plans. Leave gaps in your itinerary for spontaneous detours, unexpected finds, or that extra day/week/month at a spot you fall in love with.
5. Plan Your Campsites and Stopovers (But Don’t Overdo It!)
Now that you’ve got your route sorted, it’s time to think about where you’ll sleep.
Types of Accommodation:
- Caravan Parks: Great for facilities like power, hot showers, and laundries.
- Free Camps: Perfect if you’re set up for off-grid living. Apps like WikiCamps, Camps Australia and Campedia are gold for finding hidden gems.
- National Parks: Often affordable and scenic but may require pre-booking, especially in peak season.
- Farm Stays & Hipcamps: For unique stays on private properties.
To Book or Not to Book?
- High Season/Popular Spots: Book ahead, especially in places like Broome or during school holidays.
- Off-Peak/Remote Areas: You can often wing it, but always have a backup in case a spot’s full.
6. Budgeting for the Road: Make Your Money Go Further
Your itinerary isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s also about how much you’re spending.
Budgeting Tips:
- Fuel: One of your biggest expenses, especially if you’re towing. Use apps like FuelMap to find the cheapest fuel along your route.
- Groceries: Stock up in larger towns where prices are lower. Support local markets for fresh produce.
- Park Fees & Permits: National parks often require a pass—check in advance.
- Activities: Factor in costs for tours, park entry fees, or special experiences like snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef or cruising Horizontal Falls.
7. Safety First: Planning for the Unexpected
A good itinerary isn’t just about fun—it’s about being prepared.
Things to Consider:
- Weather: Check forecasts regularly and be mindful of bushfire seasons, floods, or cyclones.
- Breakdowns: Have a plan in case of mechanical issues. Carry basic tools, spare tyres, and know where the nearest service stations are.
- Emergency Contacts: Let someone back home know your route, especially if you’re heading into remote areas with no phone signal.
Pro Tip: Invest in a good roadside assistance membership (like NRMA or RACQ) and consider Starlink for remote trips.
8. Embrace the Journey: The Beauty of Unplanned Adventures
While planning is essential, some of the best moments on the road happen when you least expect them.
Leave Room for:
- Spontaneous Detours: That quirky little town you hadn’t heard of? Go there.
- Rest Days: Give yourself time to just chill at a beautiful spot without feeling the need to move on.
- Meeting Fellow Travellers: Some of the best tips and stories come from people you meet along the way.
Remember, the beauty of caravanning and camping in Australia isn’t just the destinations, it’s the journey itself.
Final Thoughts
Planning your own itinerary might feel overwhelming at first, but trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. It’s all part of the adventure. Whether you’re meticulously mapping every stop or winging it as you go, the key is to stay flexible, be prepared, and most importantly, enjoy your road trip.
So, grab that map, start dreaming, and I’ll see you out on the road!
What’s your top tip for planning the perfect road trip itinerary? Share your thoughts in the comments, do you wing it or love to plan?I’d love to hear how you plan your road trip!
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With years of experience travelling Australia in a caravan, I’m passionate about helping others embark on their own unforgettable adventures. From off-grid camping tips to expert advice on planning the ultimate big lap of Australia, I share stories, practical hacks, and inspiration to make your journey stress-free and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, join me as I explore the beauty of Australia, one road at a time!
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