Hit the open road and discover Australia's most iconic driving routes. From coastal cliff roads to outback adventures.
Australia is made for road trips. With thousands of kilometres of well-maintained highways, dramatic coastlines, vast outback plains and friendly country towns, there's no better way to explore the country than behind the wheel. Whether you're driving the legendary Great Ocean Road, cruising up the east coast between Sydney and Cairns, tackling the epic Red Centre, or looping around Tasmania, a self-drive adventure gives you the freedom to go at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your Australian road trip — from choosing the right route and renting a vehicle to budgeting, safety tips, and essential packing lists. We've broken down the best drives by region, with estimated driving times, top stops, and recommended itineraries.
One of the world's most scenic coastal drives, winding 243km along Victoria's south-west coast. Highlights include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, rainforest walks and charming seaside towns.
The classic Australian backpacker route up the east coast. Explore beaches, rainforests, islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation.
An unforgettable outback adventure through the heart of Australia. Drive from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock), visiting desert landscapes, Aboriginal rock art and ancient geological formations.
A scenic loop around Australia's island state, featuring wild coastlines, mountain ranges, convict history and some of the country's best food and wine.
Major rental companies operate at all Australian airports and cities. You'll need a valid driver's license. International visitors should also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home license. Book well in advance for peak seasons.
Australia drives on the left. Speed limits are strictly enforced with speed cameras. Outback driving requires extra caution — carry extra water, fuel, and a first-aid kit. Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
Distances in Australia are vast. Fuel stations can be 200-300km apart in remote areas. Always fill up when you see a petrol station, and carry a spare can of fuel if travelling off the main highways.
Expect to spend around $100-200 per day per person including car rental, fuel, accommodation and food. Budget travelers can camp or use backpacker hostels to reduce costs. Car-sharing and campervan relocations can offer great deals.
Australia has excellent caravan parks and free camping areas. Download apps like WikiCamps to find campgrounds. For free camping, look for designated rest areas — always camp responsibly and take all rubbish with you.
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, spare tire, jumper cables, torch, and plenty of drinking water are essentials. A physical map or offline GPS app is recommended as phone reception can be patchy in remote areas.
If your driver's license is not in English, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your original license. Even if your license is in English, it's recommended to carry an IDP — some rental companies and police may request one.
Yes, Australian roads are generally well-maintained and driving is safe. However, long distances, fatigue, wildlife on roads (especially kangaroos at dawn/dusk), and unsealed roads in remote areas require extra caution. Always drive to conditions and take regular breaks.
Budget roughly $100-200 AUD per person per day. This includes car rental ($40-80/day), fuel ($15-30/day), accommodation ($30-80/night), and food ($25-50/day). Campervans cost $80-150/day but save on accommodation. Prices vary by season and vehicle type.
Spring (Sep-Nov) and autumn (Mar-May) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (Dec-Feb) is peak season along the coast but can be very hot in the outback. Winter (Jun-Aug) is ideal for northern and outback trips, but southern states can be cold and wet.
Absolutely. Campervan and motorhome hire is very popular in Australia. Companies like Britz, Apollo and Maui offer vehicles of all sizes. Budget options include campervan relocation deals where you drive a vehicle one-way for just $1-5 per day plus fuel.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. Make sure your policy covers car rental excess, medical expenses, and any adventure activities you plan to do. Check the fine print — some policies don't cover driving on unsealed roads or in remote areas.