Most of us dream of taking a few months off and travelling around Australia. Here, we answer some of your most frequently asked questions to help you plan for 'the big trip'.  

How much money will I need for an extended trip?

• Work out how far you think you will be travelling, allowing for side trips. Divide by the number of kilometres per litre your vehicle achieves and multiply by a dollar per litre. This will give an approximate fuel cost figure.
• Food costs can vary enormously depending on how many meals you cook yourself and where you do the bulk of your shopping.
• For an average food expenditure figure, shopping from supermarkets and preparing food yourself, allow $100 per person per week.
• Allow about $20 per night for camping or caravan park fees. This should cover a few sundries like laundromat use too.
• Don't forget to allow for the standing costs at home while you are away - mortgage payments, rent, insurances, an unexpected power or telephone bill.
• Allow extra money to cope with emergency vehicle repairs and to take advantage of local bargains.

What's involved in planning a good route for our trip?

• Check the climatic conditions of your intended route, remembering that these vary enormously around Australia.
• Check to see whether the roads are at risk of sudden closure and choose an alternative if so. Be aware that the 'wet season' causes dramatic changes from November to April in northern regions and mid-summer is not a good time to visit the outback.
• Information on intended routes can be accessed by contacting local tourist information centres.
• Make sure you have up to date maps sufficiently detailed for your purpose. Carry a small compass to help orientate yourself. Check out NRMA's maps online.
• Check to see if an area has special requirements. For instance you cannot travel through a national park with pets and permits are required for Aboriginal land.
• Take advantage of the scenic routes and highway bypasses when available. The extra travelling time will be rewarded by local flavour.
• Be realistic about your daily distance goals, allowing plenty of time for relaxation and exploring local attractions.
  Keep your plans flexible at all times.

Will we be able to get fuel in country areas?

Not always, in remote or little travelled areas you need to ensure fuel to suit your vehicle is available at projected stops. Many country garages, especially if they're not on the highway, operate restricted opening hours. Understand the fuel range of your vehicle and remember it will vary when fully loaded or if towing a trailer or caravan. Don't plan on travelling more than 80% of that range between stops to allow a safety margin.

Fuel Directory

How can I make sure my vehicle is ready for such a big trip?

• The rule is it's always cheaper to have a problem fixed before you leave home rather than having something give way on the road.
• Get your vehicle thoroughly checked and serviced before you leave. NRMA Vehicle Inspections can help.
• Pay particular attention to the tyres. Are they good enough to last the trip? What pressures should be used with the vehicle loaded? Are the spare tyre and jacking equipment in working order?
• Carry common spares for your vehicle - spare fan belts, radiator hoses, fuses, oil and a fuel filter.

Get an NRMA Vehicle Inspection

What should we be taking with us?

• As little as possible. An overloaded vehicle has to work harder, placing more strain on everything and increasing fuel consumption.
• Pack the vehicle spare parts and tools first.
• Always include a couple of water containers full of drinking water. Two containers allow for one to leak or become tainted.
• Pack only a few day's worth of clothes, ensuring they will suit the climatic conditions you expect to encounter. Better to use laundromats on route rather than carry extra clothes.
• Always include an umbrella and a warm coat - just in case!
  Make sure you have a reserve of cash. Credit and EFTPOS facilities are not always available in country areas.

Campers' packing checklist

Time and distance chart

This is a guide only. Distances and the time required to enjoy them are consistent with average trips made to, and around, these destinations by drivers on surfaced roads. They allow for typical side trips and start from within each state itself. Obviously huge variations exist depending on the type of country you want to see, how long you've got etc.

               
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