Driving Around Australia: Planning The Perfect Big Lap Of Australia

So you’ve decided to do the big lap driving around Australia in your caravan, motorhome, RTT or camper trailer? Fantastic! This amazing experience will give you a true sense of Australia’s size and diversity.

Kev and I hit the road full-time in June 2023. However, travelling around Australia has always been on our Bucket List. On our second date we agreed we’d buy a caravan and travel full-time.

We’ve been in your shoes wondering which caravan to buy, which rig to buy and where and when to start planning.

But if you want to make the most of your big lap, planning ahead is essential. Here are some tips to help you get started.

The beauty of road-tripping around Australia is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re into beaches, mountains or the outback, there’s a perfect spot somewhere in our huge country.

But before you can start enjoying the scenery, you need to plan your route. This can be tricky because there are so many options! One way to make things easier is to choose a state or region and focus on exploring that area in detail. 

Another thing to consider when planning your trip is what kind of traveller you are. If you like free camping and being active, then chasing down all the free campsites around Australia might be right up your alley.

If, however, you prefer staying in caravan parks and sticking to the blacktop and only free camping once or twice a week, then it’s best to map out these stops well in advance. 

Whatever type of traveller you are, one thing remains the same: preparation is key! So sit down with your favourite beverage and plan your dream road trip around Australia. You won’t regret it!

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan the perfect trip around Australia.

Decide On Your Budget And Time Frame

Determining your time frame and budget for driving around Australia will help narrow your options and simplify the planning process.  For instance, if you have a limited budget, you might want to stick to free campsites and cheaper caravan parks.

If you have more time, you can afford to take your time and explore different areas in depth. Whatever your situation, it’s essential to be realistic about what you can and can’t do.

Choose Your 4WD, Caravan, RTT, Motorhome or Camper Trailer

If you plan on doing any off-roading while driving around Australia, it’s essential to choose the right 4WD. There are many different factors to consider, such as fuel efficiency, towing capacity, weights and ground clearance. We’ve written about choosing the right 4wd for your set-up here.

It’s important to ensure your 4WD is fitted with the appropriate tyres. All-terrain tyres are a good option for most off-roading, but if you plan on doing serious mud driving, you’ll need mud tyres.

Weight is one of the most important things to remember when choosing your vehicle. You need to know your 4WD the towing capacity and the payload (the weight of everything inside the vehicle, including passengers and gear). If you’re unsure about these numbers, you can usually find them in the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. We’ve written a comprehensive article all about weights and towing here.

If you’re not planning on off-roading, a motorhome will be more than sufficient if you want to stay on the blacktop. However, they are restrictive once you are set up in a caravan park unless you have another form of transport to get around a town once you are parked up. Again, there are a few things to remember about Motorhomes, such as fuel efficiency and storage space.

Remember to factor in the cost of petrol when planning your budget, especially since the price is rising.

Choose Your Direction Of Travel

Without sounding like Captain Obvious, Australia is a huge country, so focusing on one area at a time is important. This will help you make the most of your trip and see everything that interests you.

One of the most asked questions from our friends before we left was, “Where are you heading first?” We didn’t know when our van would be delivered. As I mentioned above we took off in June 2023 and headed north, chasing the sun.

The weather will determine whether you head north, south, east or west because certain regions are only accessible during certain seasons. For instance, the Top End is only habitable between May and October because of the wet season.

Likewise, central Australia is too hot to visit during summer, so winter is the best time. Once you’ve decided on a direction, you can start mapping your route.

Planning What To See And Do

Some things to consider when choosing a state or region:

• The type of scenery you want to see
• The type of experience and activities you want to do
• How long you want to spend in each place
• The time of year
• The weather
• Road conditions

Figure out where you want to go and what you want to see when driving around Australia. This will help make the planning process much easier. If you’re unsure where to start, a few websites can help you plan your trip, such as our website All Around Oz.

Apps such as WikiCamps, Hipcamp, and CamperMate are also a great help when doing the big lap of Australia. Click here for 75 of the best camping apps.

You can buy maps and guidebooks online to help with planning and the big lap of Australia map before you go. You can also pick up maps from petrol stations, camping stores and bookstores. Once you know where you’re going, it’s time to start booking accommodation and activities.

Book your campsites and caravan parks in advance if you’re travelling during peak season. Many popular campgrounds and caravan parks fill up months in advance, so planning at these times is essential.

There are a few different ways to book accommodation, such as through the campsite’s website, over the phone or in person. We usually recommend booking online because it’s the easiest and most convenient option, especially on the road.

When it comes to activities and tours, many can be booked in advance. We’d recommend this in the busy seasons.

It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your first choice is fully booked. For instance, if you plan on staying in a particular campground but it’s full, you can try calling around to see if there are any other options. Or, the easiest of all is to make Wikicamps go to work for you.

You might also consider staying in a national park or free camp. They usually have a first-come, first-served policy, although you’ll have to book in popular spots and peak season.

Book Your Accommodation

If you plan to stay in caravan parks or campgrounds, booking your accommodation before you head off is a good idea, especially during peak season. This will ensure you have a spot to park your van and avoid stressful situations. Several caravan park memberships you can join can be cost-effective and save you money or allow you additional nights free.

That said, the ever-popular “winging it” or “going with the flow” type of travelling has many benefits, too, as it allows you to be flexible. This is the type of travel we prefer.

If you choose to wing it, we recommend listing the places you want to stay in advance and then calling to see if any spots are available.

You can also try your luck at arriving early in the day and seeing if there are any cancellations. This is more common during mid-week stays.

If you’re struggling to find a spot, there are a few other options you can try, such as:

• Staying in a national park
• Free camping
• Staying in someone’s driveway (There’s a Facebook Group!)

When booking your accommodation, a few options exist, such as through the campsite’s website, over the phone or in person. We usually recommend booking online because it’s the easiest and most convenient option.

If you’re struggling to find a particular campsite or caravan park, you can always try calling around to see if there are any other options.

You might also consider staying in a national park or free camp. They usually have a first-come, first-served policy, although you’ll have to book in popular spots and peak season.

Plan Your Route

Use a map like this one to plot out a rough idea of where you’d like to go and what attractions you’d like to see along the way.  This will help you understand the distance you’ll be travelling and how long it will take you to get from one place to another.

If you’re unsure where to start, a few websites can help you plan your trip, such as our website All Around Oz. Our blog has many helpful tips and advice for planning the perfect trip around Australia. You can also join our Facebook Group, Planning A Lap Of Australia Hints & Tips.

You can also find inspiration in travel books and magazines and talk to friends and family who have been on similar trips. Once you know where you’re going, it’s time to start booking experiences and activities.

Planning Your Experiences And Activities

Once you’ve sorted out your accommodation, it’s time to 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.

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 caravan or motorhome, there are a few things you’ll need to pack, such as:

• 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 caravan, motorhome or camper trailer trip. Caravan storage ideas and things to buy for a new caravan.

Or join our free Facebook group, Planning A Lap of Australia Hints and Tips, for more tips from other experienced Lappers.

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.

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 caravan or camper trailer.

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.

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 For Driving Around Australia

How long does it take to drive around Australia?

This depends on how long you want to spend travelling and exploring. Some people like to take their time and travel slowly, while others prefer a more condensed version. There is no right or wrong answer; it all comes down to personal preference.

What are the must-see places around Australia?

There are so many amazing places to see in Australia; it depends on what you’re interested in. Some popular spots include Uluru, the Kimberleys, Karajini, the Great Barrier Reef, Fraser Island and the 12 Apostles.

What are the best times of the year for driving around Australia?

Again, this depends on personal preference and where you want to go. Generally, the weather is most pleasant in spring and autumn.

The north of Australia is tropical, so most lappers head south during the summer months and head north in the winter months.

How much does it cost to do a lap of Australia?

Again, this depends on your circumstances and how you like to travel. Some contributing factors can be

• The number of experiences you do
• How often you eat out
• How fast or slow you travel
• How large or small your setup is
• How much fuel is at the time
• The weather, i.e. headwinds, etc
• Accommodation costs – caravan parks vs free camping

Should I rent my house or sell it when I travel around Australia?

This is a tough answer as it varies from person to person. Some people feel more comfortable renting out their house, while others prefer to sell up and hit the road full-time. Doing what feels right for you and what will work best in your situation is essential.

There are benefits and drawbacks to renting and selling, so it’s worth researching and speaking to others who have made the same decision to understand better what might work best for you.

Sometimes, your plan doesn’t always work out, either. We planned to sell our apartment on the Gold Coast. However, we couldn’t sell it for the price we wanted. We’ve hung onto it, and now it is in the hands of an Airbnb management company, BNBHub, on the Gold Coast. After the mortgage and expenses are paid, some money might be left over for a tank of petrol!

What do I do with my second car when I travel around Australia?

If you plan on completing a lap of Australia in your caravan or motorhome, you must decide what to do with your second car. You can sell it, store it, or leave it with friends or family.

Selling your car can be a great way to free up extra cash for your trip. However, you’ll need to ensure you have enough money to cover any unexpected repairs or maintenance required while away.

Storing your car is another option, but you must ensure the facility is secure and insured. You will also need to factor in the cost of storage when budgeting for your trip.

Leaving your car with friends or family is a great way to save on storage and maintenance costs. However, you’ll need to ensure they are comfortable taking responsibility for your car while you’re away.

You could also consider hiring it out on Uber Carshare. However, you would have to have someone take care of the car and the bookings for you. We used Uber Carshare for our second car and were surprised by how well it worked. That was before it was written off by a drunk driver when it was parked in a street…but that’s a story for another time.

Ultimately, deciding what to do with your second car depends on personal preference and what will work best for you and your situation.

What is the best caravan insurance?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best caravan insurance will vary depending on your individual needs and circumstances. However, some things you may want to consider when shopping for caravan insurance include:

• The type of cover you need
• The level of excess you’re comfortable with
• Whether you need to insure your contents
• The geographic areas you’ll be travelling to
• How often you’ll be using your caravan
• The value of your caravan

When finding the best caravan insurance, it’s important to compare various policies from different providers to ensure you’re getting the right coverage at the best price.

Do I Need A Satellite Phone For The Big Lap?

A satellite phone can be a valuable addition to your trip, particularly if you plan on travelling to remote areas without a mobile signal. However, they can be expensive to purchase and maintain, so you’ll need to weigh the costs and benefits to decide if one is right for you.

Some things you may want to consider when deciding whether to take a sat phone include:

• How often you’ll be using it
• The areas you’ll be travelling to
• Whether you have another way to contact emergency services
• The cost of purchasing and maintaining the phone

If you decide not to take a satellite phone, make sure you have a backup plan in case of an emergency. This could include carrying a PLB (personal locator beacon) or subscribing to a satellite tracking service.

We have Starlink, which can be used throughout Australia. Starlink will connect you to the internet and also allows you to use Wi-Fi calling—making a phone call over the internet.

Is It Worth Getting Roadside Assistance?

Yes, don’t leave home without it!

Roadside assistance can be a useful addition to your trip, particularly if you plan to travel to remote areas. However, it’s important to compare the costs of different providers to ensure you’re getting value for your money.

There are some great stories about having roadside assistance and having everything covered, from picking up the car (and caravan) from very remote areas to flying the people home and/or helping with accommodation costs.

Our advice is to take out the highest level of cover. For a few hundred dollars, it will be worth it if you need it. Like any insurance, it’s always good, but let’s hope you never have to use it! It’s good peace of mind.

How Do I Find Work While Doing The Big Lap Of Australia?

One of the great things about doing the Big Lap is that it allows you to work as you travel. This can be a great way to help fund your trip and see more of Australia simultaneously.

There are several ways to find work while travelling, including:

• Asking around at caravan parks, pubs and tourist attractions
• Checking out job boards at local community centres
• Looking online for work-from-home opportunities
• Ask a local

For more information, read our blog post about How to find work when travelling Australia.

What Are The Top Tips For Travelling Australia By Caravan?

Some top tips for travelling around Australia in a caravan, motorhome or camper would include:

• Take your time and enjoy the journey
• Do your research before you go
• Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and properly serviced
• Check your weights when your rig and caravan are fully loaded
• Be prepared for all weather conditions
• Carry plenty of supplies with you but watch your weights!
• Be aware of road conditions and hazards
• Plan your routes and make sure you allow plenty of time
• Make use of free camps and overnight stops
• Enjoy the company of other lappers and travellers

What Should I Do If My Rig Breaks Down?

If you break down while you’re on the road, the best thing to do is to stay with your vehicle. This will make it easier for emergency services or roadside assistance to find you. If you have a satellite phone or two-way radio, you can use these to call for help. In the meantime, stay calm and wait for help to arrive.

What Do I Do With My Mail When I’m Doing The Big Lap?

There are a few options for handling your mail when you’re travelling around Australia. You can redirect it to a friend or family member’s house, use a PO Box service, or put your mail on hold with Australia Post.

Change all bills by post and any other important mail to email. This will make life much easier.

Sign up (if you haven’t already done so) for an AusPost account. You can then use this to pick up mail or parcels while driving around Australia.

What Do I Do With My Pets When Travelling Around Australia?

If you plan to take your pets on your trip, we recommend getting them microchipped and registered with the local council. You should also make sure they’re up to date with their vaccinations. Read our travelling with dogs post here.

If you’re not planning on taking your pets, we recommend finding a reputable pet sitter or family member who can look after your much-loved fur kid.

What Is The Best Travel Entertainment For Kids On A Road Trip?

There are several ways to keep kids entertained while you’re travelling around Australia. Some ideas include:

• Books and magazines
• Puzzles and games
• iPads
• Toys
• Colouring in books
• Journaling
• Spotting games
• Making up stories
• Listening to audiobooks
• Singing songs

Click here to explore lots of ideas for your little adventurer.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – our guide to planning the perfect trip around Australia in a caravan, motorhome or camper. We hope you found this helpful and inspired you to start planning your trip.

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 caravan, motorhome or camper trailer? Please share them with us in the comments below!

Happy travels!

Planning A Lap of Australia?

Pin This:

• About
• Latest Posts

Follow me

Annette

Owner at All Around Oz

Hi, I’m Annette Jones, the voice behind All Around Oz!

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!

Follow me

Latest posts by Annette (see all)

• Urban Caravans Review: X-Terrain The Perfect Off-Grid Caravan For Australian Conditions - January 10, 2025
• Ultimate Guide To The Best Caravan Mattress Topper Australia [2025] - December 27, 2024
• Complete Guide To The Best UHF Radio For 4WD Australia [2025] - December 26, 2024