Travelling Around Australia: How To Make the Big Lap Work Before Retirement

Thinking about hitting the road full-time but wondering if it’s realistic? Rob and Ange known online as the Semi Retired Travellers are living proof that you don’t need to be retired to start your Big Lap adventure. In fact, their journey began the minute their youngest child moved out and they haven’t looked back since.

Here’s their honest story, the lessons they’ve learnt, and the advice they wish they’d been told sooner.

Travelling Around Australia - Why They Hit the Road Early

Rob and Ange always planned to travel once they retired but when their last child left home in late 2022, they saw a golden opportunity. With nothing tying them down, they asked, “Why wait?” So they sold the house, downsized to a motorhome, and officially hit the road in March 2023.

“We just thought why not now? We did one big holiday in 2022, realised we could work and travel, and that sealed it.”

What They're Travelling In

Their setup? A spacious 31-foot Winnebago motorhome, complete with dual slide-outs for extra space, a trailer for their Mitsubishi Triton, and even a motorbike. Comfort and flexibility are key, especially when travelling long-term.

“We didn’t plan to go this big, but honestly, it’s the best decision. The extra space means we’re not in each other’s pockets.”

How They Make It Work Financially

As semi-retired travellers, work is still part of the equation. They pick up jobs along the way like their current six-month caretaking role in Roma, QLD. They've worked in multiple locations and say there’s always something going, even without trades.

“We’re not tradies. We just go with the right attitude and find something—we’ve never been out of work for long.”

Money-saving tips?

• Cook your own meals (they swear by pub meals as a rare treat)
• Choose free camps, showgrounds, or footy clubs over caravan parks
• Take advantage of jobs that include accommodation

What They Wish More Lappers Knew

1. It takes time to adjust
“It took us about three months to truly slow down and feel like we weren’t on a permanent holiday.”

2. Space matters
Living in close quarters can strain even the strongest couples. Their motorhome’s generous space and open communication make all the difference.

3. You don’t have to do everything
“Some days it’s okay to just sit by a river and do nothing. You’re not on a deadline.”

Myth-Busting: Is Travelling Australia Cheap?

Short answer, no. While you can travel on a budget, fuel is expensive, and constantly being on the move adds up. Their advice? Stay longer in places, free camp when you can, and avoid splurging unnecessarily.

Staying Connected and Safe

With six kids and several grandkids, staying in touch is a priority. They use phones and Starlink when needed, but only turn them on when necessary to save money. Starlink became non-negotiable after breaking down in an area with zero reception.

Rob's Secret Weapon

Rob’s a bush mechanic, handyman, and zip-tie wizard. His advice? Always carry duct tape, wire, and be willing to have a crack at fixing things before calling for help.

Final Advice: Just Do It

Their biggest piece of advice to anyone dreaming of a Big Lap?

“Take your time and just do it. If you wait for everything to be perfect, you’ll never leave.”

They’ve met many retirees who say, “We wish we did this earlier.” Rob and Ange didn’t want to be those people. Now, they’re two years into a 20-year travel plan and counting.

Want More?

Rob and Ange shared even more golden insights—including their top secret free camps and the underrated spots they’d revisit in a heartbeat—in the extended version available exclusively inside the BLC Podcast Membership.

Inside, you’ll get:

• Extended interviews
• Behind-the-scenes tips
• Access to a private, supportive community
• Real advice from real travellers like Rob & Ange

👉 Join today and travel smarter, not harder.