Motorhome Hire in Australia: Your Ultimate Road Trip Guide
This article was updated on July 25, 2025
Australia is THE ultimate destination for an unforgettable road trip. This vast country offers a wealth of incredible sights, quality and affordable infrastructure, and most importantly, the road itself is part of the adventure.
Hiring a campervan in Australia is an ideal way to explore the country.
This type of holiday is incredibly popular because it offers unparalleled flexibility and freedom – you can discover each region at your own pace and truly immerse yourself in an authentic experience.
If you're interested in an Australian road trip, here are the answers to all your questions to help you plan your perfect van life in Australia.
What Are the Different Vehicle types Available for Hire in Australia?
Which Cities Can I Pick Up and Drop Off My Rental Van in Australia?
Should I Be Wary of Insects and Animals When Camping in Australia?
- Practical Apps for a Road Trip?
1. What Are the Different Vehicle Models Available for Hire in Australia?
You'll find various types of vehicles perfect for exploring Australia:
Rental car Ideal for comfortable travel from one destination to another. |  |
Equipped 4x4 This vehicle allows you to go off the beaten path and delve deep into the Australian bush. Be aware that while these vehicles offer greater autonomy, most 4x4 rental companies still have certain restricted roads. |   |
Equipped station wagon A more budget-friendly option that combines the advantages of a car (easy to drive and maneuver) with the ability to spend your nights inside. |   |
Backpacker Van Compact and relatively easy to drive, these vans offer good self-sufficiency with a small kitchen and a comfortable bed, making them ideal for a first-time van life experience. |  |
Campervan/Motorhome/R.V. Spacious and comfortable, these vehicles provide excellent autonomy and a larger living space for your Australian holiday. They are truly homes on wheels, fully equipped with a living area, shower, toilet, fitted kitchen, and large beds. These models are very popular for long-distance travel in Australia due to their greater self-sufficiency and more legal camping spots in isolated areas. |  |
2. How Do I Choose My Rental Vehicle?
Choosing the ideal vehicle for your trip isn't always easy.
You might ask yourself: "What's the best camper to rent in Australia?" or "Should I choose cheap van hire?" or even "Will the van break down on the road?"
These are all valid questions to consider when selecting your rental van.
When you use our comparison tool, simply enter your pick-up and drop of dates and locations. Based on your age group and the number of people traveling, an initial selection will highlight the best vehicle, the most popular option, and the team's top pick, followed by all other available vehicles for your travel dates.
Next, you'll need to choose based on your personal criteria:
- Number of travelers: The ideal vehicle depends on how many people are traveling with you. Vehicles can accommodate up to 6 people.
- Preferred vehicle type: Do you prefer a more compact van, or do you desire a campervan with greater comfort? Do you want to go off the beaten path and explore the Outback? A 4x4 would be more appropriate in that case.
- Other travelers' reviews: Every vehicle is rated by our customers and our team. Star ratings provide a good indication of the chosen vehicle.
- Accessories: Do you need air conditioning? A large bed? Do you want to be able to take a shower? Do you prefer to have a toilet in the vehicle?
- Budget: Your choice of vehicle will naturally be influenced by your budget. Backpacker vans or equipped minivans allow you to explore the country at a lower cost. Renting a campervan or an equipped 4x4 will offer greater comfort, but also comes with a higher budget. Therefore, it's important to choose based on your comfort desires and your rental budget.
3. Which Cities Can I Pick Up and Drop Off My Rental Van in Australia?
Rental companies are located in most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Hobart, Melbourne, Adelaide, Alice Springs, Darwin, and Perth.
We also have a few partners who offer pick-ups and drop-offs in secondary cities like Broome, Airlie Beach, and the Gold Coast.
Depending on the duration of your stay, we often recommend a one-way trip between two locations (for example, picking up your vehicle in Sydney and dropping it off in Cairns). While there are one-way fees and domestic flights in Australia can be costly, this will save you on fuel and, more importantly, allow you to make the most of your road trip.
4. When Should I Book My Campervan in Australia?
It's best to book your vehicle as early as possible. Most rental companies offer dynamic pricing that changes over time (the earlier you book, the better the prices) and availability (especially during peak season) becomes very limited very quickly. Therefore, it's important to book as soon as possible to ensure a wider choice at the best prices.
Additionally, most rental companies offer fairly flexible cancellation policies (generally no fees for cancellations more than one month before pick-up).
As soon as you've chosen the ideal vehicle and determined your travel dates, you can book your vehicle to start your Australian adventure.
5. What Equipment is Included in Australian Rental Vans?
Most rental vans in Australia are fully equipped. You'll receive bedding, kitchen utensils, a gas bottle, and more. While the equipment might sometimes be basic, it's comprehensive, so you don't need to bring your own.
Most vehicles offer radios with USB or AUX ports to connect your devices, but camping tables and chairs, solar showers, and GPS are often optional accessories.
Vans and campervans have a second battery, useful for the fridge and interior lights. Campervans also often include a microwave, but you'll need to be connected to electricity (at a campsite) to use it.
6. What Driving License Do I Need?
To embark on a road trip in Australia, you must possess both your national and an international driving permit. You need both.
If you can't get an international permit in time and your driving licence is not in english, you can also apply for an official translation of your driving license here.
Note that for renting a campervan for up to 6 people, a standard car license is sufficient.
7. What's the Minimum Age to Drive a Rental Van in Australia?
The minimum age to rent a van in Australia is 18 years old.
However, for campervans, most rental companies require a minimum age of 21.
8. Campervan Hire Insurance: What You Need to Know
When picking up your rental van or campervan in Australia, the rental company will ask you to pay an excess (which generally amounts to AU$3,500for a van and AU$7,500 for a campervan).
Rental companies typically offer three types of excess's coverage:
- Standard insurance: This insurance is included in the rental price and is mandatory for rental companies to offer you a vehicle. However, this insurance offers no coverage, and you will be fully responsible for the excess.
- Intermediate insurance: This insurance provides partial coverage in case of an incident. It reduces the excess (usually by half) for a daily fee.
- Full insurance: This is the most popular coverage. This insurance fully covers you in case of an incident and allows you to completely buy down your excess. You won't have to pay the excess upfront at the start of your trip, and you typically receive accessories for free.
Insurance prices by rental company:
| Rental company | Vehicle | Excess amount* | Full insurance price* | Intermediate insurance price* | Standard insurance price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAUI | Motorhome | $7.500 | $75 | $55 | $0 |
| BRITZ | 4x4 | $8.000 | $80 | $60 | $0 |
| BRITZ | Motorhome | $7.500 | $70 | $55 | $0 |
| BRITZ | Van | $5.000 | $60 | $50 | $0 |
| APOLLO | Motorhome | $7.500 | $70 | $55 | $0 |
| APOLLO | Van | $5.000 | $60 | $50 | $0 |
| MIGHTY | Motorhome | $7.500 | $65 | $50 | $0 |
| MIGHTY | Van | $5.000 | $50 | $40 | $0 |
| CHEAPA | Motorhome | $7.500 | $65 | $50 | $0 |
| CHEAPA | Van | $5.000 | $50 | $40 | $0 |
| HIPPIE | Van | $3.000 | $40 | $30 | $0 |
| CRUISIN | Motorhome | $7.500 | $55 | $45 | $0 |
| GO CHEAP | Motorhome | $7.500 | $55 | $45 | $0 |
| GO CHEAP | Van | $5.000 | $39 | $29 | $0 |
| JUCY | Motorhome | $7.500 | $65 | $49 | $0 |
| JUCY | Van | $5.000 | $55 | $40 | $0 |
| TRAVELLERS AUTOBARN | Van | $3.000 | $45 | $35 | $0 |
| SPACESHIPS | Van | $3.000 | $30 | $20 | $0 |
| CAMPERMAN** | Van | $500 | inclus | / | / |
*Prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD) and are for individuals aged 21 and over.
**Camperman already includes full insurance in the rental price but requires a $500 AUD excess.
To make the most of your trip, we strongly recommend purchasing the full insurance offered by the rental company. This provides peace of mind during your journey, covers you if you have an incident (one excess per incident), means you don't have to pay the excess upfront, and generally includes necessary accessories (additional coverage for undercarriage and roof, tires and windscreen, camping table and chairs, gas, additional driver, child seat, etc.).
9. What Budget Should I Plan for an Australian Road Trip?
A vanlife in Australia is accessible to most people, but it does involve certain costs. You need to consider the following factors:
- Vehicle rental: There are vehicles for all budgets, and prices vary significantly by season. Remember that prices increase over time, so early booking is essential. Also, most rental companies offer discounts for rentals of 21 days or more.
- Campsite location: There are different ways to spend your nights during an Australian road trip. The price per night can vary depending on where you sleep. "Rest areas" are free, and prices can go up to $60 per night if you stay at fully equipped campsites. (See our section on camping for more information).
- Fuel: Australia is a vast country, and you'll cover many kilometers on your road trip. Fuel isn't too expensive in Australia but varies by region. To get an idea of fuel prices in Australia, you can check here: https://fuelprice.io/#google_vignette
- Insurance: It's essential to protect yourself and your rental vehicle during such a trip. The cost of excess reduction varies by rental company (between $30/day up to $80/day). Feel free to consult our section on insurance for more details.
- Food: Most vehicles offer an internal kitchen, allowing you to cook. You'll save a lot by not having to eat out all the time, but you must include the cost of groceries in your budget. Generally, prices are quite similar to what you'd find in Europe for groceries.
- Activities: Australia is a massive playground for all ages. There are tons of activities to do, but they also come with a cost. For an overview of different outings in Australia, click here.
- Other Expenses: During an Australian road trip, you'll also have miscellaneous expenses (parking in certain areas, park entry fees, an ice cream by the beach...). These costs are generally smaller but add up by the end of your trip. We recommend setting aside a budget for miscellaneous expenses to fully enjoy your van life in Australia.
10. Where Can I Camp in Australia?
When you hire a campervan or motorhome in Australia, it's essential to understand the rules of the vanlife.
No, freedom camping is not legal in Australia. While there are designated sites (both free and paid), you'll always need some form of authorization to spend your nights in your vehicle.
Camping regulations vary from state to state, so it's crucial to follow these laws and embrace responsible van life habits – leave no rubbish behind, respect locals and the environment, and be mindful of wildlife.
Here are the different ways you can spend your nights during your Australian road trip:
| Camping type | Price | Comfort and amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Rest area | Usually free | Minimum amenities |
| State campground | $20 - $50/night | High comfort with full amenities |
| Private campground | $15 - $40/night | Good comfort with all necesary amenities, often smaller and more intimate |
| National Park | $10 - $30/night | Sometimes basic comfort but often in stunning locations (ideal for an anthentic Aussie experience) |
| Camping chains (Big 4, Good Day Park) | $20 - $60/night | Excellent comfort, often offering swimming pool, playgrounds... ideal for families |
*Prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD)
For more detailed information on camping in Australia, including specific state laws and a deeper dive into each type of campsite, please visit our dedicated "Campground in Australia" article.
11. What Rental Duration Should I Choose?
Australia is a vast continent, and distances are significant. The duration of your rental will depend on what you want to visit, which region you're exploring, and your travel period.
It's advisable to plan a longer duration to truly discover the country and make the most of your van life experience.
Generally, we advise against starting your rental immediately upon arrival. It's safer to allow a few days to comfortably explore your arrival city. Similarly, plan a few days at the end of your trip to visit your departure city. In between, you can let yourself go and discover the country.
Our tips:
If you're looking to rent a vehicle for 19 or 20 days, don't hesitate to add an extra day to reach 21 days of rental. Many rental companies offer a discount for rentals of 21 days or more. It's not uncommon for it to be cheaper to rent for 21 days than for 20 days. Also, some smaller rental companies have a minimum rental period of 10 days; if you're traveling for 9 days, it can sometimes be beneficial to indicate 10 days of rental as it offers you a wider choice of vehicles.
12. What Distances Should I Cover Per Day?
Australia is a large continent, and distances are significant. To estimate distances between each stop, you can use Google Maps, which will give you a good indication. It's important to plan for rest breaks on the road.
Generally, it's recommended to drive a maximum of 3 to 4 hours per day for safety reasons, but also to make the most of your holiday. Also, avoid driving at night outside of cities.
13. What's the Best Time to Visit Each Region of Australia?
The best season to travel depends on your chosen itinerary. Generally, it's always sunny somewhere in Australia. You just need to avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
We advise against traveling:
- To the North during the rainy season (December to February)
- To the South in winter (June to August), unless you want to ski
- To the Center in mid-summer (December to February)
In conclusion, the recommended season to tour Australia is spring, from September to November. Nevertheless, if you follow the three recommendations above, you shouldn't have any problems during your stay, regardless of the season.
For more information on seasons in Australia, you can consult our dedicated article here.
14. Do I need a 4WD or a van is good enough?
A 4x4 rental is necessary if you want to go off the beaten path and emerge into the bush. However, most tourist sites are directly accessible via paved roads, so a van or campervan is very practical for most journeys.
It's common to rent a van or campervan to explore the country and, for specific areas, take a day trip with a 4x4. This can be more economical than renting a 4x4 for your entire stay, offers more comfort in your main vehicle, and provides you with the guidance of a local expert for remote areas you wish to visit (for example, visiting Grampians National Park).
15. Should I Be Wary of Insects and Animals When Camping in Australia?
Yes, you should be wary of wild animals in Australia. Don't hesitate to ask locals for advice and follow common recommendations (keep your campsite clean, don't leave food outside, check your shoes before putting them on, etc.).
It's also discouraged (and sometimes prohibited by rental companies) to drive at night. Kangaroos are attracted to light and might jump in front of your vehicle.
16. Is It Safe to Do a Road Trip in Australia?
Yes, Australia is a relatively safe and well-organized country. The crime rate is quite low, and you can generally travel safely.
However, you can always encounter the wrong person in the wrong place, so it's always advisable to remain cautious, but without being overly suspicious.
17. What's the Best Itinerary for a Van Road Trip in Australia?
Australia is an immense continent (roughly 14 times the size of France), so it's rare for travelers to try to see everything at once. Most prefer to follow an itinerary based on their interests.
The country is composed of six distinct states, each with its own unique tourist attractions. Therefore, the choice of itinerary depends on the states and tourist sites you wish to explore.
You'll find all our itineraries on the "Circuits" page of our website.
New South Wales
New South Wales, with Sydney as its main city, is often the arrival and departure point for travelers. This state, twice the size of France, boasts a superb coast, rainforests, and numerous bays. Inland from Sydney, the Hunter Valley vineyards are a favorite among wine lovers. Similarly, the "Blue Mountains" are a magnificent tourist site not to be missed.
The best time to visit New South Wales is summer, between December and March. If you go outside this period, don't worry; the sun shines almost all year round.
Queensland
Queensland is a very popular region for travelers, as it's never cold there, and there's an enormous amount to see and do. As with most states, activity is concentrated on the coast. You won't miss Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Cairns, and the many small coastal towns. You'll find activities focused on the sea, water sports, and aquatic activities. The Great Barrier Reef is the prime example. Another major site is Daintree National Park, a lush rainforest that will undoubtedly dazzle you. For families, also plan a day or two to visit the theme parks of SeaWorld, MovieWorld, and DreamWorld.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is Australia's most arid and wild state. It's also the least populated, with 200,000 inhabitants spread over an area three times the size of France. It could have been named the "Red State" due to the predominant color of the region and its very hot temperatures. The desert occupies a significant part of the state and is home to the famous Uluru (Ayers Rock). This state contrasts between the desert in the south and the oases in the northern part, such as Kakadu National Park, making this part of Australia a popular stop for visitors wishing to experience the true Australian Outback. This state also has the unique feature of being home to saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. You can take superb boat trips to encounter crocodiles in Kakadu.
Western Australia
Western Australia is the largest state in Australia, representing one-third of the continent. This part of Australia is currently experiencing rapid economic growth due to its tourism, but mainly thanks to its mining activity. It is indeed one of the most active regions in the world for minerals. Western Australia is responsible for 15% to 20% of the world's production of aluminum, industrial diamonds, iron, and nickel.
The main city of this state is Perth, known as the "City of Light." Western Australia can be divided into two parts. The southern part is mainly known for its wines, but also for its surf beaches. The northern part, covering 400,000 sq km, is unique due to its many wild animals, such as kangaroos and dolphins, and its peculiar landscapes formed by caves, gorges, and canyons millions of years old. A stay in Western Australia will allow you to discover the real Australia and its Outback.
South Australia
South Australia is the driest state in Australia; it rarely rains there. The climate is Mediterranean. Ideal for wine lovers, you'll find the best vintages in Australia here. Adelaide is the capital of this state. Also called the "City of Churches," Adelaide is known for its gastronomy and parks. You cannot go to South Australia without visiting Kangaroo Island (30% of the island is protected), where you can admire birds and other animals in the wild.
Victoria
Victoria is the smallest state in Australia, but it encompasses some of the most beautiful national parks in the country. The Great Ocean Road, along the coast, has been voted one of the most beautiful roads in the world. This route is ideal for traveling with your campervan. The main city in Victoria is Melbourne. Considered the fashion and cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is the second largest city in the country after Sydney.
18. What Are the Administrative Formalities?
To rent a campervan, the administrative formalities are quite minimal. Indeed, as long as the reservation has been made and you are in possession of both your national and international driving permit (or an official translation), you will be able to take possession of your vehicle.
For administrative formalities to enter the country, you will find all information here.
19. Weather in Australia?
Given that the country is so vast, the weather varies greatly depending on the region you are in and the travel period. Here's an indicative table of temperatures to expect during your stay:
20. Do I Need a Visa?
Yes, you do need a visa to enter Australian territory. For more information on entry requirements for Australia, you can click here.
21. How Can I Get Internet in My Van?
Some rental companies offer internet packages with vehicle rental. However, these packages can be quite expensive. We prefer the solution of getting internet on your phone and then using your phone as a hotspot for other devices.
Here are the three main mobile operators in Australia:
Telstra: https://www.telstra.com.au/
Optus: https://www.optus.com.au/
Vodafone: https://www.vodafone.com.au/
22. Practical Apps for a Road Trip?
Here's a list of essential apps for your Australian road trip:
Wikicamps - CamperMate - Hipcamp - Camps Australia Wide - Toilet Finder - Fuel Map - Google Maps - XE Currency - Field Guide - Uber Eats - Beachsafe
