Big Lap Family Travels And Startup Dreams: Meet Tara from Dreamer RV

When Tara and her husband Jim hit breaking point, they knew something had to give.

With two young kids and a FIFO lifestyle pulling them apart, life had become a cycle of stress, missed moments and a sense that they were working just to pay bills.

But instead of waiting for "someday," they took a leap that would change everything—packing up their lives in just three months and hitting the road.

That bold move in 2016 was meant to be a one-year adventure around Australia. But as Tara shared on this week’s episode of Big Lap Chats, that single trip quickly turned into a lifestyle, sparking multiple laps and the unexpected launch of a thriving business built entirely from the road.

Life on the Road with Kids (and No Experience)

Like so many first-time lappers, Tara and Jim were total rookies when they began. They’d never towed a caravan, owned a four-wheel drive, or lived off-grid. Their setup? A JAYCO Expanda and a 100 Series Land Cruiser, which Tara fondly recalls as "perfect for us at the time."

The decision to dive in came after a period of fly-in-fly-out work that tested their relationship and family dynamics. "We just weren’t meant to be doing life apart," Tara says.

From that first trip came invaluable lessons: taking a towing course, embracing the chaos of packing up a full home, and realising just how different life on the road can feel, especially with kids in tow.

Van Upgrades, Tinnies, and Creative Workarounds

After returning home to welcome their third son, the couple soon found themselves craving the road again. By now, they’d learned a few things: storage costs can crush your budget, one year on the road isn't enough, and it pays to be strategic.

They upgraded their rig to a 22-foot Majestic Navigator with triple bunks and eventually moved into a Lotus Off Grid van with rear bunks to accommodate their fast-growing teenage son.

Their current tow vehicle? A commercial Isuzu NPS truck packed with storage and a tinny, which Tara calls a "game changer" for fishing adventures and snorkelling spots.

But even with a truck, weight limits are still an issue. "We thought weight would never be a problem again, but there we were, 200kg under GCM and still not fully loaded," she laughs.

Balancing Business and Travel

During their 18 months (and counting) on the road, Tara has grown a successful business: Dreamer RV. Born out of frustration with uncomfortable caravan mattresses, she created a custom-designed topper that transforms even the worst caravan bed into a plush, supportive haven.

What started as an idea discussed on long drives became an all-in bet, with Tara and Jim pouring savings into stock and learning everything from web design to logistics on the fly.

Today, Dreamer RV has helped thousands of travellers (and their backs) sleep better, with a growing team and a footprint that includes caravan shows across the country.

"I went from full-time stay-at-home mum to full-time business owner working seven days a week," Tara shares. Jim has since flipped roles, becoming a full-time road-schooling dad, managing the van, and keeping the family running while Tara focuses on the business.

Real Talk: What Most Lappers Don’t See Coming

Tara doesn't sugarcoat the challenges. From marriages breaking down to families pulling the pin just weeks into their trip, she says many travellers underestimate the emotional adjustment of going full-time.

"If your relationship isn’t solid, you’ll find out fast," she says. "It’s a pressure cooker. You’ve got no personal space, everything changes. But if you stick with it, it’s the most rewarding experience."

She emphasises the importance of open communication, giving yourself grace during the transition period, and remembering that full-time travel is not a holiday,"it’s a lifestyle change, and the dishes still need doing."

Tara’s been lapping the country with three kids in tow. Sso you better believe she’s picked up a few brilliant tricks to stretch every dollar. From managing groceries on the go to cutting out a sneaky travel cost most people overlook, her money-saving hacks are the kind you’ll want to steal.

But we’re not giving them away here.

Listen or watch the full episode to hear Tara’s top three strategies and how one clever move saved her family thousands.

Why Dreamer RV is a Game-Changer for Caravans, Motorhomes and Camper Trailers

If you’ve ever struggled with a stiff back, sore hips or shoulders and a sleepless night in your van, Tara gets it. Her toppers are designed to fit perfectly over caravan mattresses, with no corner bunching or awkward overhang.

They're now available in 12 sizes and counting, and thanks to Dreamer RV’s commitment to quality and Australian-made comfort, some customers say they prefer their caravan bed to the one at home!

EXCLUSIVE LISTENER DISCOUNT

Tara is offering Big Lap Chats listeners $15 off orders over $150 at Dreamer RV. Use code ALLAROUNDOZ at checkout and upgrade your sleep game today.

Final Thoughts

Tara’s story is a powerful reminder that life doesn’t have to follow the conventional script. With grit, determination, and a touch of chaos, she and her family turned travel dreams into a way of life, and helped thousands of others get a better night's sleep along the way.

If you’re dreaming of the Big Lap or deep into your own journey, Tara’s tale offers a healthy dose of inspiration, practical tips, and real talk about life on the road.

Listen to the full episode of Big Lap Chats to hear more about the beautiful off-grid spots Tara loves, her behind-the-scenes business journey, and how to make your own trip smoother, safer and more enjoyable.

Visit: BLC Crew and unlock extended episodes, access to our exclusive free camping map, and bonus travel content and an extra special discount from Tara and so much more!