Planning a Big Lap of Australia, including driving around Australia for the first time, starts with five key decisions: your budget, timeframe, rig, travel direction, and travel style.
Planning a lap of Australia is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when everyone seems to have a different opinion. One person says “just wing it,” another tells you to book everything a year ahead, and suddenly you’re stuck wondering where to even begin.
The truth is, most big lap stress comes from making decisions in the wrong order.
Why We Know This Planning Process Works
Kev and I hit the road full-time in June 2023, but travelling around Australia had been on our bucket list for years. In fact, on our second date, we agreed we’d buy a caravan and do a big lap one day.
Before we left, we were asking the same questions you probably are now. Which rig should we buy? How much would it cost? Where should we start? And how do you plan a trip this big without overplanning the fun out of it?
Since then, we’ve travelled thousands of kilometres, learned a lot the hard way, and helped thousands of others plan their own lap. This guide is the exact starting point we wish we’d had.
The 10 Decisions You Need To Make Before Doing A Big Lap Of Australia
If you want to make the most of your big lap, planning ahead matters. Not so you lock yourself into a rigid itinerary, but so you avoid expensive mistakes, seasonal road closures, and unnecessary stress.
Below are the core decisions you need to make before you hit the road. You don’t need all the answers straight away, but you do need to think about them in the right order.
What “Driving Around Australia” Actually Involves
Driving around Australia isn’t just about covering kilometres. It involves planning for seasons, long distances, fuel availability, road conditions, and how you want to live day to day while travelling by road.
If you want help working through these decisions in the right order, with real examples and checklists, this is exactly what I walk you through step by step in my Planning a Lap of Australia ebook.
Decision 1: Your Budget And Timeframe
Your budget and timeframe shape almost every other decision when driving around Australia. Knowing how long you have and how much you can comfortably spend will immediately narrow your options and make planning far easier.
If you’re trying to set realistic expectations, this detailed breakdown explains how much a lap of Australia really costs, including fuel, accommodation, and day-to-day expenses.
If your budget is tight, you may rely more on free camps and low-cost caravan parks. If you have more time and flexibility, you can slow down, stay longer in each location, and explore regions in more depth.
There is no right or wrong approach. The key is being realistic about what you can afford and how long you want to be on the road.
Decision 2: Choosing The Right Rig For Your Big Lap
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a lap of Australia is what you’ll be travelling in. Your setup affects where you can go, how you travel day to day, and how much flexibility you’ll have once you’re on the road.
There is no single “best” rig for doing a big lap. The right choice depends on how you want to travel, the types of roads you plan to drive, and how comfortable you want to be living in a small space for an extended period.
This step-by-step guide on how to choose the right rig for a big lap of Australia will help you match your setup to your travel style, roads, and comfort needs.
What Matters Most When Choosing Your Rig
Rather than focusing on brand names or layouts, it’s more important to think about the practical side of travelling Australia.
Key things to consider include:
• Whether you plan to stay mostly on sealed roads or head off-road
• Your vehicle’s towing capacity and payload
• The total weight of your setup once fully loaded
• Tyres, ground clearance, and suspension
• Fuel consumption and range
Common Mistakes First-Time Big Lappers Make
• Buying a rig that’s too heavy once loaded
• Assuming a 4WD automatically makes off-road travel safe
• Choosing a setup based on looks rather than travel style
• Underestimating fuel costs and consumption
• Not understanding towing and weight limits properly
A Note On Motorhomes Vs Caravans
Motorhomes can suit sealed-road travel and caravan parks but can be restrictive without a second vehicle. Caravans, camper trailers and rooftop tents offer more flexibility but require a better understanding of towing and setup.
In my Planning a Lap of Australia ebook, I walk through this decision in detail, including how to match your rig to your travel style and avoid weight issues.
Decision 3: Choosing Your Travel Direction And Timing
When and where you travel Australia matters just as much as what you travel in. Seasons, weather, and road conditions will often dictate your direction more than personal preference.
Why Timing Matters More Than Distance
• Northern Australia is best from May to October
• The Top End is largely inaccessible during the wet season
• Central Australia is unsafe in peak summer
• Southern regions shine in spring and autumn
If you’re unsure how to line up weather, regions, and travel direction, this guide explains the best time of year to drive around Australia based on seasons and locations.
Why This Decision Should Come Early
Your timing affects road access, accommodation availability, costs, and comfort.
In my Planning a Lap of Australia ebook, I break this down by region and season so you can avoid common timing traps.
Decision 4: Choosing Your Accommodation Style And Travel Pace
Your accommodation style and travel pace will shape your entire experience.
Most travellers use a mix of:
• Free camps
• National parks
• Caravan parks
Why Pace Matters
Trying to cover too much ground too quickly leads to burnout. Slower travel allows flexibility, safer driving days, and better experiences.
Understanding how long it takes to drive around Australia will help you balance pace, seasons, and costs before locking anything in.
Booking Ahead Vs Winging It
Most experienced lappers do both. Book key stops in peak seasons and keep the rest flexible.
The eBook shows how to balance flexibility with certainty without overbooking or stressing.
Decision 5: Planning Your Route And Deciding What To See And Do
You don’t need a rigid itinerary, but having a broad route helps you avoid backtracking, plan fuel stops, and manage distances realistically.
Common Mistakes
• Trying to see too much
• Ignoring road conditions
• Many people underestimate distances when driving around Australia
• Relying solely on apps
The ebook walks through realistic route planning based on rig, pace, and season.
Decision 6: Planning Your Experiences And Activities
Once you’ve sorted out your accommodation, it’s time to start planning your start planning your activities. You’ll need to do some research to figure out what there is to see and do in each place.
There are a few different ways to find things to do, such as :
- Asking locals for recommendations
- Going to the local information centre
- Searching online
- Reading travel books and blogs
- Checking out tourism websites
If you’re struggling to find activities, we recommend talking to locals or searching our blog or Facebook Group. Locals always have the best recommendations because they know the area well and hopefully share some hidden gems with you. Plus, the All Around Oz Crew is helpful as someone in the Crew has been there previously.
Once you’ve found a few exciting activities, it’s time to start booking. We recommend booking your accommodation and activities to avoid disappointment, especially in peak seasons.
Decision 7: Pack Your Caravan , Motorhome Or 4WD
Now that you’ve sorted out your accommodation and activities, it’s time to start packing for your trip!
If you’re travelling in a
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Toiletries
- Bedding
- Pillows
- Towels
- Cooking equipment
- Food and drink
- First-aid kit
- Tool kit
- Spare parts
If you’re unsure what to pack, we recommend checking out our blog posts on the essential items you’ll need for your
Or join our free Facebook group, Planning A Lap of Australia Hints and Tips, for more tips from other experienced Lappers.
Decision 8: Stock Up On Supplies
Before setting off, ensure you have everything you need regarding food, drink, fuel and any other essentials you love. This is especially important if you’re travelling in a remote area with no shops nearby.
We recommend stocking up on food and drink, as well as any other essentials such as toilet paper and insect repellent. You should also ensure enough fuel to last the journey, especially in the outback. If you don’t have a long-range fuel tank, then Jerry Cans are a must.
Decision 9: Check Your Rig
Before starting your journey, it is important to ensure your rig, 4WD gear or vehicle is in good working order. This includes checking the tyre pressure and oil levels and ensuring all the lights work on your rig and
You should also pack a few essentials in case of emergencies, such as an oil filter, a satellite phone, a first-aid kit, and a map.
We highly recommend buying the top cover for roadside assistance in your state. This will save you thousands of dollars should you break down and need towing. We have RACQ Ultimate Care.
Decision 10: Check Your Insurance Policy
Before your trip, you must ensure you’re adequately insured. This includes things like having the right insurance for your vehicle, and it might be worthwhile looking into general travel insurance, too, depending on your type of travel.
FAQs: Planning A Big Lap Of Australia
How long does it take to do a lap of Australia?
Most people travel for 6–12 months, but some take longer. Slower travel usually leads to a better experience.
What is the best time of year to travel Australia?
Northern Australia is best May–October. Southern regions suit spring and autumn. Many people follow the seasons.
How much does it cost to do a lap of Australia?
Costs vary based on travel style, fuel prices, accommodation, and pace. Fuel, food, maintenance, and insurance are the main expenses.
Should I sell my house or rent it out?
There’s no single right answer. It depends on finances, risk tolerance, and long-term plans.
Is roadside assistance worth it?
Yes. High-level cover can save thousands if you break down in remote areas.
Do I need a satellite phone?
Not always. PLBs and satellite internet are alternatives depending on how remote you travel.
Can you work while travelling Australia?
Yes. Many travellers do seasonal, local, or remote work while travelling.
Want Help Working Through These Decisions In The Right Order?
Planning a lap of Australia doesn’t have to mean second-guessing or learning the hard way once you’re already on the road.
In my Planning a Lap of Australia ebook, I walk you through every step with real examples, checklists, and practical guidance to help you plan with confidence.
👉 Get the Planning a Lap of Australia ebook here
Written by a full-time traveller living the Big Lap — not guessing from behind a desk.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – our guide to planning the perfect trip around Australia in a
If you have questions or need more help, we recommend joining our free Facebook group, Planning A Lap of Australia Hints and Tips. This is an excellent resource for getting advice from other experienced Lappers.
And that’s it – you’re ready to hit the road! With some planning and preparation, you’ll have a fantastic time travelling around Australia. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Do you have any other tips or advice for travelling around Australia in a
Happy travels!
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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!
Thanks for your inspirational insight into how to prepare for the big lap. Very informative. Need to take that step and do it.!!!
Yes! 👏 set a date and be like Nike 😀
Cheers
Annette
We are planning to do the east coast (live in WA). Do you have suggested itineraries? We have done/seen a lot of SA and not a fan of doing lower Vic. Just unsue whether to do inland route or coast.
Wow this is so concise. I was worried about taking my poms but you covered that. I want to freecamp but worried about my safety which I feel more secure with now after reading your your email.
Tips and hints and planning never thought of that. 3 kids of solo parenting, running a goat stud i just want to break free for a couple of years.
Thankyou for such comprehensive information and sharing
You are very welcome Lenny!
Thanks. I am planning but didn’t know where to find free camping places.
This is really helpful. Thankyou
I need to know about personal security. Camera security for the car.
Anti bug window things
Fans both battery and solar. I ll be living in my car
A good laptop.
Can u help me with any of that please
Hi Kat
I’m glad you found the post helpful.
Our first port of call for anything to do with camping or caravanning is Outback Equipment you can find them here https://bit.ly/outbackequipment
What a great article, sometimes it states the obvious and other points I didn’t consider so great ref document. Thank you
Thanks for your feedback Jo, glad you found the post useful 🙂