Planning the Perfect Aussie Road Trip: What Most People Forget
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Time to read 4 min
A road trip in Australia is pure magic: wide skies, empty roads, hidden beaches on exclusive islands. However, even the best plans fall apart when you forget the small stuff.
This guide cuts through the fluff and provides clear, easy steps to plan a safe, smooth, and enjoyable Aussie road trip. Follow it and you’ll avoid the usual headaches.
1. Pick a realistic route and pace
People often cram too much into each day
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Work out realistic drive times, not Google’s optimistic ones.
Aim for 3–5 hours of driving a day unless you love long hauls.
Plan buffer time for pit stops, photos, and unexpected detours.
If you’re trying a longer trip, look at real-life routes for ideas.
For example, a Queensland caravan route shows how to pace stops and where to pull over for the best sights.
2. Prep the vehicle properly
A reliable car is the backbone of any trip. Don’t skip these checks:
Tyres: check tread and pressure. Carry a tyre gauge and a spare.
Fluids: oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washer.
Battery: test it before you leave.
Lights: headlights, indicators, brake lights and hazard lights.
Brakes: listen for squeaks and check pedal feel.
Service history: if the car is due, organise a service.
Make sure your paperwork is in order: registration, driver’s licence, roadside assistance details and any hire agreement paperwork if you’ve rented.
Also, most importantly, double-check your insurance cover! In Australia, CTP insurance (or MAI) is mandatory, so it’s critical to confirm your coverage before travelling. For more information, you can read more about CTP Insurance with NRMA.
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3. Pack the important stuff people forget
You’ll be amazed at how often these items save the day:
Second car key in a labelled bag
Phone chargers and a power bank
Torch with fresh batteries
Reusable water bottles (fill up often)
Sunscreen and a broad-brimmed hat
Insect repellent
Basic tool kit, zip ties, duct tape and bungy cords
Spare tyre repair kit and portable air compressor
Wet wipes, garbage bags and a small laundry line
Emergency blanket and high-visibility vest
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Pack these in an easy-to-reach spot.
If you need something at a rest stop, you don’t want to unpack the boot.
4. Build a simple, flexible packing system
Use small bags for categories. It keeps things tidy and fast.
Tech bag: chargers, adaptors, headphones
First aid bag: plasters, pain relief, antiseptic, antihistamine
Kitchen bag: cutlery, plate, mug, small stove items
Clothes bag: day wear, warm layer, rain jacket
Food bag: snacks, easy meals, cleaning sponge
Label each bag! When the sun sets at 6pm and you need a jumper, you’ll thank yourself.
5. Plan food and water like a pro
Eating well keeps spirits high and the driver alert.
Stock up on fresh fruit, sandwich supplies and snacks.
Freeze some water bottles, they act like cool packs as they melt.
Pack a small gas stove or a portable grill if you like cooking.
Know where supermarkets and fuel stops are on long stretches.
Avoid relying on remote roadhouses for everything. They can be expensive and far apart.
6. Safety on the road: simple rules that actually work
Fatigue and wildlife are big risks in Australia.
Share driving time where possible. Stop every 2 hours.
Plan nighttime stops, many animals move at dusk.
Slow down on unsealed roads and watch for tyre-destroying corrugations.
Keep an emergency kit: torch, water, food, jumper, and basic tools.
Tell someone your rough route and check in once a day.
Also, check the local road updates for closures. The Bureau of Meteorology and local councils post useful alerts.
7. Apps and tech that make life easier
You don’t need everything, but these help:
Offline maps or downloaded routes (apps like Waze help)
Fuel and campsite apps to find stops
A weather app with alerts for your region
A roadside assistance app linked to your policy
If you rent a car, confirm what roadside support is included first.
8. Camping, campsites and legal spots
Wild camping rules vary across states and lands.
Use official campsites when possible.
Check national park rules for free camping and permits.
Respect local signs and private property.
Leave no trace - take rubbish with you and extinguish fires fully.
If you’re unsure about a spot, look for other campers or call the local council or check out our Campsite Explorer
9. Money, cards and local tips
Keep money simple and secure.
Carry some cash for tiny towns.
Have an easy system for receipts and fuel expenses.
Save emergency phone numbers and a local contact number.
If you’ll be crossing state borders, research any permit or biosecurity rules, especially for agricultural areas.
10. Quick itinerary templates
Here are small templates to adapt:
Slow weekend (3 days): Base in one town, day trip both days, relax on day three.
Activity trip (5–7 days): Two long drives, three action-packed days (hiking, snorkelling, surfing).
Long haul (10+ days): Plan 1–2 full rest days, and alternate long/short driving days.
Start each day with a flexible plan: three must-dos and one dream stop.
11. Final checklist before you leave
Do these same-day checks:
Fuel tank full and spare jerry can filled if needed
Tyre check and spare fitted properly
Licence, registration and insurance papers accessible
Phone charged and emergency contact saved
Water and snacks within reach
Camp bookings or campsite plans confirmed
Let someone know your first two stops
Further reading and help
If you’re planning caravan-style travel up the coast, consider our top tips in travelling around Australia in a motorhome to see how to space out stops and choose suitable parks.
Safe travels, slow down, smell the gumtrees, and enjoy the open road!
