Check List for your Ultimate Road Trip in Australia
Vanlife in Australia offers maximum freedom, but it definitely requires a bit of preparation. Whether you're a family looking for comfort or a young traveller seeking adventure, this comprehensive checklist will ensure your road trip down under goes smoothly.
| Admin | Flights | Clothes |
| Check in | Vanlife | Drop off |
Before you go
Admin and Logistics
This might not be the most exciting part, but it's crucial for a stress-free arrival in Australia. Make sure your administrative ducks are in a row to avoid surprises at customs or check-in.
Australian ETA | https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601 |
Flight ticket and layover details | Australia is a long-haul destination! Book your flights in advance and ensure you have all the necessary documents for entry. Remember that you will likely have a layover; check the entry requirements for your transit country as well. |
Travel insurance Australia | It is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance to cover you against unexpected incidents (lost luggage, cancellations, flight delays, etc.). Many companies require you to take out cover within 48 hours of booking your flight or vehicle to include cancellation coverage. |
| Vouchers | Keep a copy (digital and/or paper) of all your pre-booked services: vehicle rental, accommodations, activities, tours, etc. |
Driving Licence | To drive on Australian roads, you must be over 18 and have your national driver's licence. |
International Driving Permit (IDP) or NAATI Translation | It is compulsory to have an International Driving Permit (IDP). If you cannot get an IDP before you leave, you must obtain an official NAATI translation of your national licence in Australia. You can book your NAATI Translation here here |
Currencies | It is essential to inform your bank that you will be in Australia to prevent them from blocking your card—which would be a major hassle! |
Copies | For peace of mind, make digital and paper copies of all official documents (driving licence, IDP, ETA, flight tickets, insurance contract, passport, etc.). |
Flights
Australia is a massive country, and you'll be using different airlines. Check their specific regulations regarding baggage and restrictions.
Flight tickets | Print your flight ticket (paper and digital print)
|
Self Check-in | Most airlines offer self check-in 24 to 48 hours before departure. This can save you time at the airport.
|
| Carry-on & Checked Luggage | Be sure to check and respect the maximum dimensions and weight limits for your bags.
|
| Packing Tip | Consider using soft bags or backpacks instead of hard suitcases. They are much easier to store in a van or campervan!
|
| Onboard Entertainment | Bring your own quality headphones and a good book or downloaded movies for the long flight.
|
| Prohibited Items | Double-check your airline's list of prohibited items.
|
| Australian Customs | Australian Customs are notoriously strict. When in doubt, declare it! Do not attempt to bring food, plant, or animal products into the country without declaring them for inspection.
|
DUTY FREE | Alcohol and cigarettes are expensive in Australia. Stock up at the duty-free shop before your departure or during a layover.
|
Clothing and gear check list
Most airlines allow up to 20–23 kg of checked luggage. Your packing list will depend on the duration of your trip, the season, and the regions you visit.
Australia is largely focused on beaches and the desert, so expect warm weather. However, evenings can be cool, and heavy rain is possible depending on the season. Pack clothing for all types of weather.
2 swimsuits | Clothing for all seasons (hot during the day and cool in the evenings) | Water shoes (coral and reef) |
bath towels (2) | Party clothes (Night life in Australia) | water proof bag |
hat, cap | Toileteries | walking shoes |
Sunscreen | 1st aids kit | large socks |
Sun glasses | snorkeling gear | bagpack |
Flip-Flop / jandals (an Australian tradition) | water suits | binoculars |
During your road trip
Van Check-in
This is where the real adventure begins! Taking possession of your campervan or van is an important moment to familiarise yourself with your new home on wheels.
| Voucher | Print (or have a digital copy) your voucher and locate the rental depot's address on Google Maps. The voucher has all the instructions (address, hours, reservation number) for pickup. |
| Inspection | Do a complete walk-around (exterior and interior) and note all imperfections on the contract. Remember to check the roof and the undercarriage. |
| Functionality Check | Take your time to try everything before leaving the depot: water hoses and fittings, kitchen utensils, bedding and towels, shower, toilet, gas bottle (open and close it), water pump, electrical plug-in, etc. Make sure the vehicle is fully operational. |
| Extras | Check if you have received the accessories included in your rental (table and picnic chairs). Some renters offer free picnic accessories with all-inclusive insurance. |
| 1st grocery shopping | Head to the nearest supermarket. This is the moment to try some Australian specialties: TimTams, Caramello Koalas, or the famous Vegemite (you have to try it!). |
| Final Check | In the supermarket car park, take the time to set up comfortably. Re-test all the functionalities (AC, beds, shower, lights). If something isn't working, it will be easy to return to the depot. |
On the Road : Vanlife Essentials
Your rental should include most kitchen utensils and sleeping necessities. However, a few key accessories will make your vanlife experience even better.
| Navigation & Planning Basic Itinerary | Vanlife is freedom, but it helps to have a rough idea of what you want to visit and where to sleep (use apps like WikiCamps for campsites). For your itinerary and thing to do and see, use the app that your travel advisor sent you before your trip started |
| Electronics Adapter | Australia uses 230V, so you'll need an adapter for your devices. Power Bank or Solar Charger, Laptop, Tablet, Go-Pro/Drone, Spare memory cards. |
| Internet | Rental internet packages are often expensive. It's usually better to get a prepaid SIM card from a local operator (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) or use an e-SIM plan. |
| Comfort & Safety | Torch/Headlamp: Essential for moving around campsites at night. Insect repellent/lotion, Books, Clothesline, First-aid kit. |
The Return : the last step
The adventure is coming to an end! Here are the final details for dropping off the vehicle.
- Toilet Cassette: Empty the toilet cassette the morning before you hit the road. It must be returned empty.
- Fuel: Fill up the petrol tank before returning the vehicle.
- Packing: Pack your bags before arriving at the depot. It can often be hectic, and this is the best way to avoid forgetting something.
- Check Everything: Once at the depot, take out all your luggage, food, and personal effects, and check thoroughly that you haven't forgotten anything (cupboards, under seats, glove compartment, etc.).
- Final Inspection: If you did not take the "all-inclusive" insurance, walk around the vehicle with the rental agent and compare it with the list and photos you took at check-in.
- Confirmation: Ensure everything is in order, and the rental agent is satisfied with the vehicle's return condition before you leave.
