In terms of epic journeys, you’re not going to get much bigger than road tripping around the land Down Under. This huge landmass has more differing landscapes and areas of natural beauty than perhaps anywhere else in the world, from stunning beaches, lush rainforests, the red centre, Uluru, and massive cosmopolitan cities, all with a laid-back vibe and rich culture to explore.
Of course, with any journey of this size, you need to know a little about what you’re getting yourself into before you embark on it, so here are ten tips to get you started.
Check Your Licence
Licence requirements differ the world over depending on where your licence was originally issued. Head online to the official website to get up to date, reliable information on what you need. Also remember to always keep your licence and passport on you whilst travelling.
Get Travel Insurance
I shouldn’t have to remind you that you should never attempt to travel without adequate travel insurance, right? Find your policy, declare any pre-existing medical conditions, and take it with you!
Familiarise Yourself with Key Rules of the Aussie Road
Obviously, rules differ slightly from state to state, but doing some online research will arm you with the best information. Remember that you must drive on the left.
Research Routes Before You Go
There are countless routes to allow you to see the best of Australia, concentrating on a certain area or spanning several. It’s your choice where you go, but following a route will show you the highlights without you having to do it yourself. You might think you want to stick to the stunning coastal areas, but don’t miss the mysterious and iconic inland areas, such as the Outback and Red Centre.
Plan When To Go
Because of the size of Australia, you need to check out weather conditions when you are planning to visit. The northern part of the country during summer can be very wet, however, the rest of the country is dry and baking. Remember that summer in Australia is December to February, and during this time the central part of the country can be searingly hot.
Be Vehicle Savvy
Make sure you choose a vehicle that is up to scratch and right for the terrain you’re going to be driving through. It’s not all perfect tarmacked roads, and during the wet season in the north it’s possible for roads to become flooded or even washed away completely.
Book Lodging in Advance
Depending on the time of year, campsites, hotels, and other types of lodgings can get very busy, so it’s important to book these ahead of time.
Make Sure You Have Maps
It’s a good idea to download a country-wide map to your GPS system, as well as having a backup paper version in case of any technical problems.
Don’t Rush!
Make sure you give yourself enough time to explore the areas you’re visiting. It’s important to try and get a taste of the culture, rather than just checking out the scenery - for example especially if you’re visiting Uluru, as many people do.
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