Australia is at the absolute core of Europeans’ gap year travels, as well being snorkelling amongst retirees. Given the size of the country, there is so much to explore. Domestic flights miss out on the outback and famous sites between the cities, so campervans have become a popular choice.
What vehicle?
There are a few options here to choose from. Many travellers on a budget who aren’t looking for comfort, or to hang about inside their vehicle of choice, can opt for a station wagon. These are usually just long cars where you fold a few seats and place a mattress. These are much cheaper to run than campervans, they are easier to park (they don’t violate any height restrictions), and they are perfect for people who are looking to also stay in hostels/hotels some nights, mixing the frugality of the vehicle with the facilities of the hostel. These cost around $40 a day to rent, or they can be purchased second-hand for around $4,000.
Vans can be a fun option and are almost always associated with purchasing the vehicle and renovating. This is because the vans are often ex-commercial courier vans, for example, that have been converted. If a purpose-built one is found, it could be purchased for around $6,000 or rented for the same price as a station wagon. A cheaper van could also be published, and around $2,000 could be spent making it liveable (this can vary widely depending on electrics, plumbing and insulation).
A purpose-built classic caravan that is intended for road-living for long periods is perhaps the more traditional vehicle of choice. These are for travellers who want the facilities of a stove and sink but do not want to spend the time converting a van themselves. You will pay a slight premium as a result, with rent costs of around $50 per day or purchasing one for over $10,000 (even second-hand).
Buy or Rent?
Buying is an excellent option if you have the cash, but it may only be worth it if you travel for over half a year.
If we take a 3-month trip for example, renting will usually give you 24/7 roadside assistance, a toll-free service number and access to free camping grounds. The vehicle will already be filled with living essentials, mainly if you pick the campervan. You know the stove will work, it will be in good running order, and it will be many things off your mind, such as camping grounds. The major cost will then be the living costs of the campervan, such as filling up the water tanks, charging batteries, gas and general living costs.
It may come down to how much money you have and how long you’re travelling for. If you’re okay with the added maintenance responsibility and have enough savings, then purchasing a second-hand campervan outright will likely be cheaper in the long run. This way, upon selling, you will usually not lose too much value in depreciation, especially if it was already second-hand.
The buying option also gives you more freedom. You will be less worried about driving through dodgy tracks that may scratch the vehicle, you may want to add solar panels or rip out a fixture and fitting.
Tip: MNY offers flexible caravan financing options in Australia. They provide immediate funding with secured and unsecured loans, catering to various circumstances. They aim to help you afford your dream caravan with the best possible loan deal.
Parking laws
Parking in the streets with a caravan is generally considered illegal when sleeping the night. Many towns will promote the idea of caravan tourism and provide special places for them to park.
Generally, you are best paying $35 a night for a caravan park that will offer excellent facilities, a place to meet other travellers, and even communal kitchens and living areas.
Top 5 places to visit in the campervan
Tasmania: Rural and natural landscapes are in abundance of historical sites and beaches that feel like they’ve been kept a secret. There is also a new museum (MONA) of old and new art worth visiting.
Uluru: Here, you will be exploring the true outback of Australia which is home to Ayers Rock. Perhaps discretion is advised with this one, it is in the middle of nowhere! This can be part of the attraction and provide a primal experience for your campervan travels.
The Great Barrier Reef: This is a great visit for those who love the sea – everything is available here, from snorkelling and scuba diving to boat trips. There is an abundance of exotic sea life, and the Great Barrier Reef itself is so large it can be seen from space!
Sydney Opera House: A visit to Australia would be strange without a visit to Sydney. Sydney can be a great hub for other travellers to meet each other, and the opera house is a stunning architectural feat.
The Blue Mountains: The incredible Blue Mountains can be viewed as a slight detour from Sydney. It has everything from astonishing natural landscapes to horse riding, day spas and ecotourism gardens.