Planning an Australia road trip is one of the best ways to experience the country’s incredible coastline, national parks, beaches and hidden gems. From exploring the famous East Coast to travelling through Western Australia’s remote landscapes, a road trip gives you the freedom to create your own adventure.
However, before starting your journey, one of the first questions many travellers ask is:
How much money do you need for an Australia road trip?
The answer depends on your route, travel style, trip duration and the experiences you want to include. A budget traveller can explore Australia for around $120–$200 AUD per day for two people, while a more comfortable campervan adventure with more activities and paid campsites may cost $300–$500+ AUD per day.
The good news is that travelling Australia by campervan allows you to combine transport, accommodation and cooking facilities into one setup. This gives you more flexibility and can help reduce costs compared with booking hotels and eating out every day.
In this Australia road trip budget guide, we break down the main expenses you should consider, including:
- Campervan and vehicle costs
- Fuel expenses
- Campsites and accommodation
- Food and groceries
- Activities and tours
- Seasonal price differences
- Ways to save money while travelling Australia
Whether you are planning a short East Coast adventure, a month-long campervan trip or a full Australian road trip, this guide will help you understand the realistic costs before you hit the road.
If you are still deciding whether campervan travel is right for you, read our guide:
Why Hire a Campervan in Australia?
Quick Cost Summary: Australia Road Trip Budget
The total cost of travelling Australia depends largely on your travel style.
A budget backpacker can keep costs low by choosing a smaller campervan, cooking their own meals and mixing free camping with affordable campsites. On the other hand, travellers looking for extra comfort may choose a larger campervan or motorhome with more facilities.
Average Daily Cost for Two People
| Expense | Budget Campervan | Comfortable Campervan | Motorhome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle hire | $50–120/day | $90–180/day | $180–350+/day |
| Fuel | $25–60/day | $30–70/day | $50–100/day |
| Campsites | Free–$60/night | Free–$60/night | Free–$80/night |
| Food | $40–80/day | $40–80/day | $50–100/day |
| Activities | $0–100/day | $0–100/day | $0–150/day |
Estimated Australia road trip cost per day (for two people):
Budget campervan trip:
$120–$200 AUD per day
Comfortable campervan trip:
$180–$300 AUD per day
Motorhome trip:
$300–$500+ AUD per day
These prices are general estimates only. Your final Australia road trip budget will depend on your route, how far you drive, where you stay and how many experiences you add along the way.
What Affects the Cost of an Australia Road Trip?
Before planning your budget, it is important to understand what influences the total cost of travelling Australia.
1. Your Choice of Vehicle
Firstly, your vehicle choice will have one of the biggest impacts on your overall road trip budget.
A small campervan is usually the most affordable option and is popular among backpackers and couples who spend most of their days exploring.
Larger campervans and motorhomes cost more but provide extra comfort, including:
- More sleeping space
- Larger kitchen facilities
- More storage
- More living space
The best option depends on your route, how long you are travelling and how much comfort you want during your adventure.
2. Your Travel Route
Secondly, your chosen route can have a major impact on your Australia road trip costs.
Australia is a huge country, and the distance between destinations can vary significantly.
For example:
- Sydney to Cairns is around 2,400 km
- Melbourne to Adelaide is around 730 km
- Perth to Broome is over 2,000 km
- A full lap of Australia can exceed 15,000 km
Longer routes usually mean higher fuel costs and more time spent travelling. However, they also allow you to experience more of Australia’s famous landscapes, national parks and coastal towns.
Popular campervan routes include:
- Tasmania campervan loop
- East Coast Australia road trip
- Great Ocean Road
- Perth to Broome
3. How Long You Travel
Another important factor is the length of your Australia road trip.
While a longer trip means more total spending, your average daily cost can often become lower.
This is because:
- Longer rentals may offer better daily rates
- You have more time to cook your own meals
- You can travel slower and avoid unnecessary driving
- You can include more free activities
For example, a three-week campervan trip may offer better value per day compared with a shorter one-week adventure because fixed costs are spread across more time.
4. Your Travel Style
Finally, your personal travel style plays a big role in determining your budget.
A budget traveller might:
- Stay at free campsites
- Cook most meals
- Focus on free beaches, hikes and national parks
- Travel with a smaller campervan
Meanwhile, a more comfortable traveller may:
- Stay at holiday parks
- Book tours and experiences
- Eat out more often
- Choose a larger vehicle
There is no right or wrong way to travel Australia. The best Australia road trip budget is the one that matches your own travel style and priorities.
Typical 2-Week Australia Road Trip Cost for Two People
A two-week campervan adventure is one of the most popular ways to explore Australia, especially on routes such as:
- Sydney to Cairns
- Melbourne to Adelaide
- Perth to Exmouth
As a general guide, two people should budget around $2,000–$4,500+ AUD for a two-week Australia road trip, depending on comfort level, vehicle choice and activities.
Budget Backpacker Trip (Low Top Campervan)
Estimated total: $2,000–$3,000 AUD
A low-top campervan is usually the most affordable way to explore Australia by road. It is ideal for travellers who spend most of their time outdoors and mainly need a comfortable place to sleep, prepare simple meals and store their belongings.
Example costs:
- Campervan hire: $900–$1,600
- Fuel: $400–$700
- Campsites: $0–$500
- Food: $500–$800
- Activities: $200+
Best for:
✓ Backpackers
✓ Budget-conscious couples
✓ Shorter road trips
✓ Travellers who spend most of their time exploring outdoors
Comfortable Australia Road Trip (Hi-Top Campervan)
Estimated total: $3,000–$4,500 AUD
A hi-top campervan is a popular choice for travellers who want more comfort without upgrading to a full motorhome. With extra headroom, more storage and a better living setup, it is ideal for longer campervan trips around Australia.
Compared with a low-top campervan, a hi-top usually provides more space to relax after a long day of driving or exploring.
Example costs:
- Campervan hire: $1,400–$2,500
- Fuel: $500–$800
- Campsites: $200–$700
- Food: $600–$900
- Activities: $300+
Best for:
✓ Longer road trips
✓ Couples wanting extra comfort
✓ Travellers spending more time on the road
✓ People who want a balance between budget and convenience
Premium Australia Road Trip (Motorhome)
Estimated total: $4,500–$7,000+ AUD
For travellers who want a more comfortable experience, a motorhome offers extra space and more home-like facilities.
Motorhomes are especially popular with families, longer-term travellers and those who prefer more comfort while exploring Australia.
They often include:
- Larger living areas
- More kitchen facilities
- Separate sleeping spaces
- More storage
- Bathroom facilities (depending on the vehicle)
Example costs:
- Motorhome hire: $2,500–$5,000
- Fuel: $700–$1,200
- Campsites: $400–$1,000
- Food: $800–$1,200
- Activities: $500+
Best for:
✓ Families
✓ Longer adventures
✓ Travellers prioritising comfort
✓ Those wanting a more relaxed travel style
Fuel Costs for an Australia Road Trip
One of the biggest expenses when travelling Australia by campervan is fuel.
Because Australia is such a large country, many popular routes involve hundreds or even thousands of kilometres of driving. As a result, fuel costs can have a noticeable impact on your overall Australia road trip budget.
Your fuel costs depend on:
- The size of your campervan
- Fuel efficiency
- Distance travelled
- Current fuel prices
- Driving conditions
Average fuel costs:
Small campervan:
$25–$60 AUD per day
Hi-top campervan:
$30–$70 AUD per day
Motorhome:
$50–$100 AUD per day
Example:
Sydney to Cairns road trip
Distance:
Approximately 2,400 km
Estimated fuel cost:
Around $450–$700 AUD
To reduce fuel costs:
✓ Avoid unnecessary detours
✓ Compare fuel prices using apps like FuelMap
✓ Fill up before remote stretches
✓ Drive efficiently and avoid speeding
For longer routes, fuel planning can make a big difference to your total travel budget.
Campsite Costs in Australia
Accommodation is another important part of your Australia campervan budget.
One of the biggest advantages of travelling by campervan is that you have more flexibility with where you stay. Instead of paying for hotels every night, you can choose from free campsites, national parks and holiday parks.
Free Camping
Cost:
$0
Free camping is one of the best ways to save money on an Australian road trip.
However, it is important to remember that you cannot camp anywhere you like. Overnight camping is only allowed in designated areas.
Free campsites often have:
- Limited facilities
- Beautiful natural locations
- Basic amenities or no amenities
- Short stay limits
For more information:
Free Camping Australia Guide
Holiday Parks
Average cost:
$35–$70 per night
Holiday parks are a popular option for campervan travellers who want extra comfort and facilities.
They often include:
✓ Hot showers
✓ Laundry facilities
✓ Powered sites
✓ Camp kitchens
✓ Swimming pools
✓ Wi-Fi
Many travellers combine free camping with holiday parks to keep costs lower while still enjoying a few nights with extra comfort.
National Park Camping
Average cost:
$10–$30 per night
National parks offer some of the most scenic campsites in Australia.
They are a great option for travellers who want to stay closer to nature while keeping accommodation costs affordable.
You can often find campsites near:
- Beaches
- Rainforests
- Mountains
- Hiking trails
- Wildlife areas
Always check local rules and booking requirements before arriving, as some popular national park campsites need to be reserved in advance.
Food Costs on an Australia Road Trip
Food is another area where your choices can significantly affect your budget.
One of the biggest benefits of a campervan trip is having the option to prepare your own meals instead of eating out every day.
Average food budget for two people:
Budget travellers:
$40–$60 AUD per day
More comfortable travel style:
$60–$100 AUD per day
Typical campervan groceries include:
- Breakfast supplies
- Sandwich ingredients
- Pasta and rice meals
- BBQ food
- Snacks
- Drinks
- Fresh fruit and vegetables
Cooking your own meals most days can save hundreds of dollars compared with eating at restaurants.
However, it is also worth budgeting for the occasional meal out, especially when visiting popular destinations such as Byron Bay, Airlie Beach or Cairns.
Activity Costs During an Australia Road Trip
Australia has thousands of incredible experiences that are completely free.
Many of the country’s best attractions include:
✓ Beaches
✓ National parks
✓ Hiking trails
✓ Scenic viewpoints
✓ Swimming spots
✓ Coastal walks
However, some of Australia’s most popular experiences can add significantly to your budget.
Examples include:
- Great Barrier Reef snorkelling tours
- Whitsundays sailing trips
- Wildlife experiences
- Diving
- Kayaking
- Adventure activities
Average activity budget:
Budget travellers:
$0–$50 per day
Experience-focused travellers:
$50–$150+ per day
A good approach is to plan a mix of free experiences and a few paid highlights. This allows you to enjoy the best of Australia without overspending.
Campervan Road Trip Costs by Season
The time of year you travel can have a big impact on your overall budget.
During peak periods, campervan availability decreases and prices often increase. Therefore, travelling during quieter months can help you save money.
Low Season (Cheapest Time to Travel)
Typical months:
- May–June
- August–September
- Late October–November (varies by region)
Benefits:
✓ Lower campervan prices
✓ More vehicle availability
✓ Fewer crowds
✓ Cheaper accommodation options
Average campervan prices:
Low-top campervan:
$50–$100/day
Hi-top campervan:
$90–$150/day
Motorhome:
$180–$300/day
Shoulder Season (Best Balance)
Typical months:
- March–April
- September–October
Shoulder season is often considered one of the best times for an Australia road trip because you can enjoy good weather while avoiding the highest prices.
Benefits:
✓ Comfortable temperatures
✓ Better availability
✓ Lower prices than peak season
✓ Fewer crowds at popular attractions
Peak Season (Most Expensive)
Typical periods:
- December–January
- Easter holidays
- Australian school holidays
During these periods:
- Campervans book out faster
- Campsites fill up quickly
- Rental prices increase
If you are travelling during peak season, booking your campervan early can help you secure better availability and rates.
One-Way Campervan Hire Costs in Australia
When planning an Australia road trip, your pick-up and drop-off locations can also influence your overall budget.
A one-way campervan hire allows you to collect your vehicle in one city and return it in another. This is a popular option for travellers who want to explore larger sections of Australia without having to complete a return journey.
Popular one-way campervan routes include:
- Sydney to Cairns
- Melbourne to Adelaide
- Brisbane to Cairns
- Perth to Broome
However, one-way rentals can sometimes cost more because rental companies may charge a relocation fee to help move vehicles between branches.
On the other hand, a return campervan rental is often cheaper because the vehicle is collected and returned to the same location.
If you have flexibility with your route, comparing different pick-up and drop-off locations can help you find the best value option for your Australia campervan trip budget.
Other Costs to Consider on an Australia Road Trip
While campervan hire, fuel, campsites, food and activities are usually the biggest expenses, there are also smaller costs that can add up during your trip.
Planning for these expenses early will help you create a more realistic Australia road trip budget.
Insurance
Campervan insurance options vary between rental companies.
Depending on your chosen cover, you may need to consider:
- Standard insurance included with the rental
- Excess reduction options
- Security bond requirements
- Additional protection options
Insurance costs are usually separate from your daily travel expenses, so it is important to include them when calculating the total cost of your trip.
Laundry
Laundry is often overlooked when planning a campervan trip.
Most travellers will need to use laundries at:
- Holiday parks
- Caravan parks
- Laundromats in towns
Average cost:
$5–$15 per load
For longer trips, budgeting a small amount for laundry will help avoid surprises.
Mobile Data and Internet
Staying connected while travelling Australia can be useful for:
- Navigation
- Finding campsites
- Checking weather conditions
- Booking activities
- Contacting family and friends
A prepaid SIM card or travel data plan is usually enough for most travellers.
Budget:
Around $20–$60 AUD per month
Coverage can vary in remote areas, so it is worth downloading important maps and information before travelling through areas with limited reception.
Tolls and Parking
Some Australian cities have toll roads, particularly around:
- Sydney
- Brisbane
- Melbourne
If your road trip includes major cities, allow some extra budget for:
- Toll roads
- City parking
- Paid attractions
Many travellers avoid these costs by planning routes around toll roads where possible.
Gas Refills and Equipment
Depending on your campervan, you may need to budget for:
- Gas bottle refills
- Additional camping equipment
- Extra bedding
- Outdoor gear
- Cooking supplies
These costs are usually small but can be useful to include in your overall budget.
2-Week Budget Australia Road Trip Example
Budget Campervan Adventure
Estimated total: $2,000–$3,000 AUD
Example breakdown:
| Expense | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Campervan Hire | $900–$1,600 |
| Fuel | $400–$700 |
| Food | $500–$800 |
| Campsites | $0–$500 |
| Activities | $200+ |
Best for:
✓ Backpackers
✓ Budget-conscious couples
✓ Travellers who enjoy free activities
✓ Shorter East Coast adventures
Is a Campervan Cheaper Than Hotels in Australia?
For longer trips, travelling by campervan can often be a cost-effective way to explore Australia because your transport and accommodation are combined.
| Campervan | Car + Hotel |
|---|---|
| Accommodation included | Pay separately every night |
| Cook your own meals | More restaurant costs |
| Flexible travel plans | More fixed itinerary |
| Stay closer to nature | Limited accommodation locations |
| More freedom | Less flexibility |
However, the best option depends on your travel style. Hotels may suit shorter city trips, while campervans are often better for longer adventures and exploring regional Australia.
Why Book Your Campervan Through Australian Backpackers?
Planning an Australian road trip involves more than simply choosing a vehicle.
With different campervan types, rental companies, travel routes and seasonal prices, finding the right option can feel overwhelming.
Australian Backpackers helps travellers compare campervans from trusted rental brands in one place, making it easier to find a vehicle that matches:
✓ Your budget
✓ Your travel dates
✓ Your route
✓ Your number of travellers
✓ Your comfort preferences
Because we work with campervan rental operators, we can help you compare available options and find competitive rates for your adventure.
Not sure which campervan is right for you?
Our team is happy to help you plan your trip.
Get in touch through:
- Phone
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Australia road trip cost?
The cost of an Australia road trip depends on your travel style, vehicle and route. A realistic budget for two people is around $2,000–$4,500 AUD for a two-week campervan trip.
Is travelling Australia by campervan expensive?
It can be affordable compared with traditional travel because your transport, accommodation and cooking facilities are combined. Your biggest costs are usually campervan hire, fuel and activities.
How much should I budget for fuel in Australia?
Fuel costs depend on your route and vehicle size. For many campervan trips, travellers should budget around $25–$100 AUD per day depending on the vehicle.
Can you camp for free in Australia?
Yes, but only in designated areas where overnight camping is allowed. You cannot park and sleep anywhere you like. Always check local rules before staying overnight.
What is the cheapest way to travel Australia?
The cheapest way to travel Australia is usually by choosing a smaller campervan, cooking your own meals, using free campsites where permitted and travelling outside peak season.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Australia Road Trip Budget
An Australia road trip can be as affordable or luxurious as you want it to be.
A budget traveller can explore Australia with a simple campervan setup, while those wanting more comfort can choose a larger vehicle and enjoy more facilities along the way.
The most important thing is creating a budget that matches your travel style, route and the experiences you want to have.
With the right planning, a campervan adventure gives you the freedom to explore Australia’s beaches, national parks and hidden destinations while creating memories along the way.
Ready to start planning?
Australian Backpackers can help you find the campervan that fits your adventure, budget and travel plans.
