Australia is one of the world’s best destinations for a campervan holiday. From tropical beaches and ancient rainforests to rugged outback landscapes and world-famous coastal drives, there’s something to explore in every season. However, choosing the best time to hire a campervan in Australia can make a big difference to your trip.
The ideal time depends on where you want to travel, your budget, and the type of adventure you’re looking for. While some travellers head north during winter to enjoy warm, dry weather, others prefer the quieter shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and find cheaper campervan hire deals.
In this guide, we’ll explain the best time to hire a campervan in Australia, what to expect in each season, and how to save money on your next road trip.
Looking for the perfect campervan? Compare Australia’s leading campervan rental companies with Australian Backpackers and find the right vehicle for your adventure.
LINK: Campervan Hire Australia
Quick Answer: When Is the Best Time to Hire a Campervan in Australia?
The best time to hire a campervan in Australia is generally during autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November).
During these shoulder seasons, you’ll usually enjoy:
- Mild temperatures
- Fewer crowds
- Lower campervan hire prices
- More campsite availability
- Comfortable conditions for hiking, sightseeing, and road trips
However, the best time ultimately depends on where you’re travelling. Northern Australia is best visited during winter, while southern Australia is ideal during spring, summer, and autumn.
Best Time of Year to Hire a Campervan
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn is widely considered one of the best times to travel Australia by campervan.
After the busy summer holidays, popular destinations become quieter, making it easier to find campsites and enjoy attractions without the crowds. At the same time, temperatures remain warm enough for outdoor activities in most parts of the country.
Autumn is particularly ideal for:
- Sydney to Melbourne road trips
- The Great Ocean Road
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Western Australia’s South West
Because demand is lower than during peak summer, you may also find better campervan hire deals.
Winter (June to August)
Although winter is cooler across southern Australia, it’s actually the best time to explore the north.
Destinations such as Cairns, Darwin, Broome, and the Red Centre experience warm days, cool evenings, and very little rainfall during this period.
Winter is also one of the best seasons for:
- Exploring the Outback
- Visiting Kakadu National Park
- Driving the Coral Coast
- Whale watching along parts of the Australian coastline
However, popular northern destinations can become busy during this period, so booking your campervan early is recommended.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is another fantastic time to hire a campervan in Australia.
Across much of the country, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and longer daylight hours. Wildlife is also particularly active, making it a great season for nature lovers.
Spring is ideal for:
- Western Australia wildflowers
- Blue Mountains
- East Coast road trips
- South Australia
- Victoria
In addition, many regions are less crowded than during the Christmas holidays, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.
Summer (December to February)
Summer is Australia’s busiest travel season.
Families take advantage of the school holidays, international visitors arrive in large numbers, and many Australians head off on their own road trips.
Summer is perfect for:
- Tasmania
- Alpine regions
- Victoria
- Coastal New South Wales
However, temperatures can become extremely hot in inland Australia, while campervan hire prices and campsite demand are generally at their highest.
If you’re planning a summer road trip, booking several months in advance is highly recommended.
Month-by-Month Guide to Campervan Hire in Australia
January
- Peak travel season
- Warm weather across southern Australia
- Busy campsites
- Book well in advance
Best for:
- Tasmania
- Great Ocean Road
- Coastal Victoria
February
Temperatures remain warm, but crowds begin to ease slightly after the school holidays.
It’s often easier to find campervan availability compared to January.
March
One of the best months to travel.
Expect pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and excellent driving conditions across much of Australia.
April
April offers comfortable weather in many parts of Australia and is ideal for longer road trips.
Keep in mind that Easter holidays can increase demand, so it’s worth booking early if you’re travelling during this period.
May
May is often one of the best months for campervan travel.
Temperatures are mild, tourist numbers are lower, and many campervan operators begin offering attractive shoulder-season deals.
June
Northern Australia comes into its own during June.
Dry conditions make destinations such as Cairns, Darwin, and the Kimberley particularly enjoyable.
July
July is one of the busiest months for northern Australia due to its warm, dry climate.
If you’re travelling north, book your campervan and campsites well ahead of time.
August
August continues to offer excellent weather in the north, while southern Australia begins to warm up ahead of spring.
It’s a great time for whale watching along parts of the coast.
September
Spring begins, bringing colourful wildflowers, comfortable temperatures, and ideal road-tripping conditions.
Many travellers consider September one of the best months to hire a campervan.
October
October combines excellent weather with fewer crowds than summer.
It’s a fantastic month for exploring Australia’s national parks and coastal drives.
November
Warm weather returns across much of Australia, but prices often remain lower than during the Christmas period.
It’s one of the last opportunities to enjoy quieter roads before the summer rush.
December
December marks the start of the busiest travel season.
If you’re travelling over Christmas or New Year, campervan hire should ideally be booked several months in advance.
Best Places to Visit by Season
| Season | Best destinations |
|---|---|
| Summer | Tasmania, Great Ocean Road, Alpine regions |
| Autumn | Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, South Australia |
| Winter | Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Exmouth |
| Spring | Perth, Margaret River, Blue Mountains, East Coast |
Choosing the right destination for the season will help you enjoy better weather and make the most of your campervan adventure.
Tips for Finding Cheap Campervan Hire in Australia
If you’re looking to save money, a little planning can go a long way. While campervan hire prices vary throughout the year, there are several ways to find a great deal without compromising on your adventure.
Book Early
One of the easiest ways to secure the best price is to book your campervan as early as possible. This is especially important if you’re travelling during school holidays, Christmas, Easter, or the peak winter season in northern Australia.
Booking several months in advance often gives you access to better rates, a wider choice of vehicles, and more availability.
Compare Campervan Hire Companies
Rather than booking directly with one operator, compare prices across multiple campervan rental companies.
Different operators often have varying prices, vehicle types, insurance options, and special offers. Comparing your options can help you find the best value for your trip.
Travel During the Shoulder Seasons
Travelling during autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November) often provides the best balance of pleasant weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
Because demand is generally lower than during summer and school holidays, you’ll often find better campervan hire deals and greater campsite availability.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
If your plans allow, moving your trip by just a few days or a week can sometimes make a noticeable difference in price.
Midweek pick-ups are also occasionally cheaper than weekends.
Consider a Longer Hire
Many campervan rental companies offer discounted daily rates for longer bookings.
If you’re planning a two- or three-week road trip, you may pay less per day than someone hiring for only a few days.
Look for Campervan Relocation Deals
Campervan relocation deals can be one of the cheapest ways to travel Australia.
These offers allow travellers to drive a campervan from one destination to another for a heavily discounted rate because the rental company needs the vehicle moved. Send us a message to check for any current deals.
While relocation deals usually have fixed travel dates and routes, they’re perfect for flexible travellers looking to save money.
LINK: Campervan Trip on a Budget in Australia
Should You Avoid School Holidays?
If you’re hoping to save money, travelling outside Australian school holidays is usually the best option.
During school holidays:
- Campervan hire prices are often higher.
- Popular campsites book out quickly.
- Tourist attractions can be much busier.
- Flights may also be more expensive.
However, if school holidays are your only opportunity to travel, don’t worry. Simply book your campervan well in advance to secure the best availability and pricing.
Do Campervans Get Hot in Summer?
Yes, campervans can become hot during Australia’s summer months, particularly in inland areas where temperatures regularly exceed 35°C.
Fortunately, most modern campervans include air conditioning while driving. However, it’s worth noting that air conditioning usually only operates when the engine is running.
To stay comfortable during summer:
- Choose campsites with powered sites if you need electric cooling.
- Park in shaded areas where possible.
- Open windows and roof vents when safe to do so.
- Start driving earlier in the morning and avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Stay well hydrated during your trip.
If you’re travelling through central Australia during summer, plan carefully and check weather forecasts before setting off.
LINK: Bureau of Meteorology
Best Time to Hire a Campervan Based on Your Travel Style
Different travellers have different priorities. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide when to hit the road.
| If you want… | Best time to travel |
|---|---|
| The cheapest campervan hire | May, June, August or September |
| Warm beach weather | December to March |
| Fewer crowds | March to May or September to November |
| Northern Australia | June to August |
| Southern Australia | September to April |
| Wildflowers in Western Australia | August to October |
| Whale watching | May to November (depending on the region) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to hire a campervan in Australia?
For most travellers, autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and competitive campervan hire prices.
What is the cheapest month to hire a campervan?
Prices vary between operators and locations, but May, June, August, and September often offer some of the best deals outside peak holiday periods.
Should I hire a campervan during school holidays?
If possible, travelling outside school holidays can help you save money and avoid busy campsites. However, if you do travel during these periods, booking early is the best way to secure good prices.
How far in advance should I book a campervan?
For travel during Christmas, Easter, or school holidays, it’s recommended to book three to six months in advance.
For quieter periods, booking one to three months ahead is often sufficient.
Is winter a good time for a campervan holiday in Australia?
Absolutely. While southern Australia can be cool, winter is the perfect time to explore northern Australia, including Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia’s Coral Coast.
Is spring or autumn better for a road trip?
Both seasons are excellent. Spring offers blooming landscapes and longer days, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Either season is ideal for most Australian road trips.
Ready to Explore Australia by Campervan?
The best time to hire a campervan in Australia ultimately depends on where you want to travel and the type of adventure you’re planning. While autumn and spring are generally considered the ideal seasons thanks to their mild weather and fewer crowds, every season offers something unique.
By planning ahead, comparing campervan hire prices, and choosing the right destination for the time of year, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable, affordable, and memorable road trip.
At Australian Backpackers, we make it easy to compare campervan hire from Australia’s leading rental companies in one place. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, an epic East Coast adventure, or a lap around Australia, we’ll help you find the right vehicle at the best possible price.
Ready to start planning? Compare campervan hire with Australian Backpackers today and find the perfect campervan for your next adventure
