Support - Travel Information

How Far to Travel in a Day

Australia is roughly the size of continental USA but with a population of greater Los Angeles with most of that population located on the eastern sea board. So be prepared for long distances across open country with little population in-between.  

Driver fatigue has been the cause of 20% of all traffic accidents. If you are going to be driving long distances it is recommended that you have more than one licensed driver and that you share the driving, giving each other a chance to rest. If this is not possible, you should rest every two hours giving yourself a 15 minute break even when close to your destination.

The amount you would like to cover in a day obviously varies according to the nature of your holiday. Assume if you are on the open road in your campervan that you will be covering between 80 and 90 kilometres an hour, stops permitting. We would not recommend you travel no more than 4 or 5 hours in a day. Any further and the drive just becomes a tedious chore, and you fail to acknowledge or appreciate the scenery you are driving through. An ideal distance is between 200 and 400 kilometres, as that way you cover a fair distance but not enough to tire you out.

Play it safe with your driving, take the time to enjoy the passing landscape, and your holiday will be all the better for it!

Please note that times and distances are approximations and will vary depending upon road conditions and time of year. It is suggested that you should check with local authorities before travelling in remote areas. (Multiply by 0.621 for Mile equivalent).

Petrol is sold in litres and comes in both unleaded and lead substitute forms. Prices will vary depending upon location and in the major cities you will see price fluctuations during any given week and national holidays. Motorhomes travel 8 - 12 km per litre of fuel depending on the size of the motorhome and how they are driven.

For fuel price updates, click here

Driving in Australia and Road Rules

A motorhome road trip across Australia is the perfect way to explore this country's stunning landscapes. Most Australians live on or near the eastern and south-east coasts. Roads within and between the cities and towns in these areas are sealed and generally well maintained, as are the main highways that join the state and territory capital cities. There are usually plenty of well marked rest areas on major highways (though these are usually very basic and do not always have toilet facilities). It is important to note that even on major highways, in remote areas (known as the"Outback")motorists may travel for hundreds of kilometres between towns or road houses without opportunities to refuel, get water, refreshments, or use toilets. It is strongly advisable in these areas not to let your fuel gauge drop below half-full before filling up again. 

 Be sure to take notice of the road signs as these indicate road rules and changes in the road's conditions. Off the major inter-city highways, road conditions can be difficult in remote areas with many roads being unsealed. Motorhome companies will have restrictions for driving their campervans on these sorts of roads. These roads are indicated in the motorhome terms and conditions and will be on your motorhome rental contract.

Driver Fatigue is a big problem on Australia roads. A major killer has been tourists coming off long-haul flights, collecting their campervan, and attempting to drive long distances on unfamiliar roads. Please rest before collecting your campervan if you have come off one of these long flights. Here are some other tips to help you stay alert on your driving holiday:

• Take a break every two hours (Stop, Revive, and Survive)
• Share the driving if possible
• Avoid eating large meals
• Drink plenty of fluids

Licence Requirements for Campervan Rentals

To drive a campervan in Australia you must hold a current non provisional drivers licence or permit. You can legally drive for up to 12 months if you have a licence or International Driving Permit (IDP). However, you must always be carrying this with you and it must be in English or at least have an English translation accompanying it.

Overview of Road Rules

Overseas tourists who intend to drive in Australia should take the time to get know Australia's road rules.

Although there are eight states and territories in Australia, road rules are largely consistent. The basic rules to keep in mind when driving along the Australian roads are:

• Drive on the left side of the road.
• The maximum speed limit on open roads is 100 km/h.
• The maximum speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h.
• All vehicle occupants must wear a seat belt or child restraint.
• Always use your indicators when turning.
• At STOP signs, stop completely and give way to all traffic.
• At GIVE WAY signs slow down and be prepared to stop.
• When turning, give way to all vehicles that are not turning.
• The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% throughout Australia.
• Unless there is a dedicated turn light (or the signs say otherwise), you are allowed to make a left/right turn when the light for going straight ahead is green.
• Using a handheld mobile to talk or SMS is subject to heavy fines. 
 

Restricted roads may vary and we suggest speaking to reservations staff about your plans when you collect your motorhome if you are planning on going out-of-the-way. Generally two-wheel drive vehicles must not be used on any unsealed road (a road not sealed with a hard material such as tar, bitumen or concrete). Exceptions to this are well maintained access roads of less than 12 kilometres (one-way) to recognised campgrounds, National Parks and well maintained, recognised roads on Kangaroo Island (South Australia).

Generally four-wheel drive vehicles are not permitted on any Island in Queensland (including Fraser Island), the Old Gunbarrel Highway, the Lost City in Litchfield, Boggy Hole (Finke Gorge National Park), Old South Road from Maryvale to Finke, Cape York or the Canning Stock Route.

Companies also restrict vehicle movements in certain areas due to adverse road or weather conditions.

Most Hire Companies require the driver(s) to be over 21 years of age although there are variations.  License age requirements are shown in the terms and conditions section for each motorhome.

A drivers license must be in English or with an English translation.