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Planning a Big Lap? Here Are My Answers to the Questions I Always Ask

Annette Jones - All Around Oz

Planning A big lap?

This week on the Big Lap Chats podcast, it’s just me, Annette, flying solo from Outback WA. And you know what? I’m actually excited about it. I’ve had quite a few of you writing in saying: “You ask such great questions, why don’t you answer them yourself?” So today, I’m doing just that.

Whether you’re still in the dreaming phase or already plotting pins on your Wikicamps map, this one’s for you.

Who Am I (and Why You Should Listen)?

If you’re new here, welcome! I’m Annette, the owner of All Around Oz. My partner Kev and I have been on the road full-time for just over two years. We’ve travelled through most of Australia (except Tassie and the ACT, they're still on the list!) in our 20'6" Urban EX-Terrain caravan, towed by our trusty Y62 Patrol. This year (2025) and next year we are travelling through Western Australia.

We share real, unfiltered advice through our blog, Facebook groups (Planning a Lap of Australia – Hints & Tips and Caravanning for Newbies Australia), and of course, this podcast.

What’s the Most Overlooked Thing That Could Make or Break Your Big Lap?

Not setting a departure date.
Honestly, this one’s huge.

Kev and I wanted to travel for years. But until we circled a date on the calendar, life just kept getting in the way. Set the date. Tell people. Work backwards. Life will try to throw birthday parties, weddings and excuses your way, but commit anyway. That’s when the planning gets real.

How Do We Find the Best Under-the-Radar Destinations?

We wing it... but with a little help.

Wikicamps is our go-to, but take reviews with a grain of salt.
We rarely book ahead (except for peak times or must-dos).
We travel 2–3 hours max on travel days. That’s our rhythm.
We look 1–2 days ahead, see what’s nearby, and choose from there.

Keeping plans loose has led to some of our best stays—places we didn’t even know existed until we got there.

What Are Our Top 3 Money-Saving Hacks?

Glad you asked. Here’s what’s worked for us:

Fuel apps are your best friend.
Especially on long hauls like the Nullarbor. We never filled from empty to full,just topped up where it was cheapest (and yes, I’ve shared that breakdown on our socials!).
Vacuum seal your meat.
We vacuum seal our own and keep it frozen or in the fridge. Huge cost saver, and reduces waste.
Don’t overlook low-cost campgrounds.
Think showgrounds, rec clubs, and tiny town RV stops. We’ve found spots with power and water for just $20 a night. Wudinna and Broken Hill racetrack are standouts!

What’s the Biggest Myth About Doing the Lap?

That it’s all sunshine, turquoise waters, and epic sunsets.

Reality check: you’re living in a tin can. Some days it’s rainy, windy, or just... meh. You can’t always sit by a campfire in your beach chair with a cocktail in hand. But that’s okay,it’s all part of the journey. Don’t let the Instagram highlight reel fool you.

Tips For Staying Productive On the Road If You Work

It took me a few months to find a groove. My tip? Create simple, repeatable routines.
I now batch interviews on Thursdays and aim to always have episodes scheduled in advance. When you build in flexibility, it leaves more space to enjoy the adventure.

Also, forget “motivation.” You need habits. Set goals, follow through, tick them off.

What’s One Tip That Saved Our Bacon (That We’ve Never Shared)?

Honestly? Planning the right setup for the way you want to travel.

We knew we wanted to free camp, so we invested in a van that could handle that. It’s not about having all the bells and whistles—it’s about making sure your setup matches your style. Being prepared means fewer surprises and a smoother journey.

Final Thoughts (And an Invitation!)

If you’ve made it this far, thank you! I hope hearing things from my side of the mic gives you some clarity (and confidence) for your own lap planning.

And if you want more unfiltered, real-world advice from travellers who’ve done it and are still doing it, join the BLCCrew.

🔒 You’ll get:

Exclusive members-only extended episodes
Behind-the-scenes content
A private community of lappers who “get it”
Access to me, direct Q&As, and real answers, not random Facebook opinions.
Extra Resources to help you plan, pack, and make the most out of every road trip

Let’s make sure your Big Lap is everything you’ve dreamed of, without the stress or costly mistakes.

Know someone I should interview?

Or want to be on the podcast yourself?
Click here to fill out the form and let’s chat!

Until next time, travel safe and dream big!
—Annette x

Annette Jones

Owner All Around Oz

Annette Jones is the intrepid spirit and knowledgeable guide behind All Around Oz, where her life's work is shaped by the countless kilometres she's journeyed across Australia’s vast landscapes.

Her devotion to the caravan and camping lifestyle is not merely a pastime but a deep-seated passion, which has blossomed into a hub of invaluable travel insights.

Annette's writings are a rich blend of vivid travel narratives, practical tips, and trustworthy advice, born from a relentless pursuit of discovery and a wealth of real-world experience.

At the helm of All Around Oz, Annette is committed to empowering travellers with the confidence to explore Australia’s scenic wonders. Her expert guidance makes planning a caravan trip around the continent less daunting and more delightful.

Recognised for her authoritative content and engaging storytelling, Annette has cemented her place as a leading voice in the caravanning and camping community, making All Around Oz an essential resource for anyone chasing the horizon on their big lap around Australia.