Chris and Bec From Salt and Charcoal Share Their Big Lap Australia Journey

This episode covers the Big Lap Australia.

Ever dreamed of hitting the open road and exploring every corner of Australia? That’s exactly what Chris and Bec from Salt and Charcoal have been doing for the past five years.

In this episode of Big Lap Chats, they share their incredible journey—from unexpected mechanical hiccups to the joys of full-time travel. If you’re planning your own Big Lap or just love hearing real-life travel stories, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Shipping a Bus Across Australia: A Journey in Itself

Chris and Bec’s beloved bus—a converted 1993 Toyota Coaster 4WD—was meant to be shipped from Brisbane to Perth in just a few weeks. Instead, it took three months due to port strikes and logistical mishaps.

The couple found themselves tracking their bus across the ocean, watching as it was rerouted back and forth before finally docking in Fremantle.

Lessons Learned:

✔️ Always have a backup plan for transport delays.
✔️ Be prepared for unexpected costs and logistics.
✔️ Mechanical maintenance is crucial for long-term travel.

From FIFO and Social Worker Life to Full-Time Travel

Chris and Bec didn’t always live life on the road. Before their Big Lap, Chris worked FIFO, and Bec was a social worker. Their love for travel saw them spending every spare dollar on trips, from camping weekends to overseas adventures.

Then, 2020 hit. Their original plan to travel the world was halted, but rather than giving up, they pivoted. Instead of a global trip, they turned their focus to exploring Australia. After selling their belongings, they hit the road in a Nissan Patrol with a rooftop tent, proving that you don’t need the perfect setup to start your journey.

Takeaway: Just start! Don’t wait for the ‘perfect time’ or the perfect rig—start with what you have and upgrade as you go.

The Road to Bus Van Life

During their travels, they began dreaming of a more comfortable and capable setup. One day, while stopping for groceries, they impulsively searched for a 4WD bus on Gumtree—and found their dream rig in Noosa!

Within hours, they had placed a deposit and booked flights to pick it up. This decision changed everything and set them up for years of adventure.

Why They Love Their Bus:

🚍 More space for full-time living.
🚍 4WD capability for off-road adventures.
🚍 Customisable for their needs.

But with an older vehicle came unique challenges, like finding mechanics willing to work on a custom-built bus.

Challenges of Full-Time Travel

Life on the road isn’t always smooth sailing. Their bus ran perfectly for three years—no major breakdowns, no flat tires—until it was finally their turn for some mechanical drama. When their turbo failed (twice!), they were left without their home-on-wheels.

The Reality of Breakdowns:

🔧 Finding the right mechanic is harder for custom rigs.
🔧 Repairs can take way longer than expected.
🔧 Having a backup plan (like a temporary base) makes life easier.

Now, Chris and Bec are considering a more balanced approach—having a home base while still taking the bus out for extended trips.

Top Tips for Big Lap Travel

1. Give Yourself More Time Than You Think

A six-month lap of Australia sounds great in theory, but you’ll be rushing through the best parts. Aim for at least a year and be okay with missing a few things—FOMO is inevitable!

2. Save Money with These Travel Hacks

💰 Free Camping – Use resources like WikiCamps
💰 Public Pool Showers & Gyms – Great for affordable hot showers while on the road.
💰 Bulk Shopping – Plan meals ahead and shop in bulk to cut down on impulse food spending.

3. Don’t Overplan—Stay Flexible!

✔️ Weather can be unpredictable—don’t stress too much about hitting every destination in the “perfect season.”
✔️ Some of the best experiences come from spontaneous detours.
✔️ If you love a place, stay longer. If you’re not vibing with it, move on

How They Stay Connected & Work on the Road

Chris and Bec work remotely, running a digital marketing business and their travel brand Salt and Charcoal. Staying connected is essential, and Starlink has been a game-changer. It allows them to work from remote locations while still enjoying the adventure.

Work-Life Balance on the Road:

📅 Monday-Thursday: Work focus.
🏕️ Friday-Sunday: Exploring and adventure.
📵 No-Screen Sundays: A day for unwinding and disconnecting from tech

The Biggest Myth About Travelling Australia

🐍 “Everything is out to kill you.”
Chris and Bec debunk this common fear—Australia’s wildlife is not as dangerous as people think. In five years, they’ve barely encountered any dangerous animals. The real risks? Crocodiles and jellyfish in the north—always follow local advice.

Final Advice for Future Big Lappers

✔️ Just Go! You don’t need the fanciest setup—start with what you have.
✔️ Talk to Locals. They’ll tell you about the best hidden gems that aren’t online.
✔️ Sell Your Stuff! You don’t need as much as you think—simplify and hit the road.
✔️ There’s Plenty of Work. If money is a concern, you can find jobs in remote areas.

Chris and Bec’s story is proof that a life of adventure is possible—you just need to take the leap!

Follow Salt and Charcoal

Want to see more of their travels? Check them out at their website and on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The links are below 👇🏻

👉 Inspired by Chris and Bec’s journey? Join the Big Lap Chats Membership for exclusive content, extended interviews, and insider travel tips! Join Here