Breakdowns are rare in modern hire campervans, but Australia is big and some roads are a long way from the nearest mechanic. Knowing what to do if your campervan breaks down makes a stressful moment much easier to handle.
Here's how to stay safe, who to call, what changes in remote areas, and who usually pays for what.
First, get safe
Transport for NSW gives clear steps for breakdowns, and they apply anywhere in Australia:
- Pull over somewhere safe, as far left and away from traffic as you can. Use the shoulder or a breakdown lane if there is one.
- Turn on your hazard lights, and your parking lights too if visibility is poor.
- Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt on if you're on a busy road.
- If you have to get out, use the side away from traffic and stand well clear of the road, behind a barrier if there is one.
- Don't change a tyre on the traffic side of a busy road unless it's safe.
In a tunnel, pull into a breakdown bay or as far to the side as you can, turn on your hazards, stay inside and wait. Major tunnels are monitored and help will come to you.
Call your hire company's roadside assistance
Most campervan hire companies include a 24/7 roadside assistance number, usually printed on the key tag, a sticker in the van or your rental agreement. Save it in your phone at pick-up.
Call that number first, not a local mechanic or motoring club. The hire company will arrange help, tell you what's covered and may organise a replacement vehicle if the van can't be fixed quickly.
Have these ready when you call
- Your rental agreement number
- The van's registration
- Where you are, using the GPS location on your phone or the nearest town and road name
- What happened, including any warning lights
Emergencies: call 000
If anyone is injured, the vehicle is on fire or you're in danger, call 000 for police, fire or ambulance. From a mobile you can also dial 112.
Breaking down in the outback
Outback breakdowns are where preparation matters most. Mobile reception can disappear for hundreds of kilometres, and help can take hours to arrive.
- Stay with your vehicle. It gives you shade and is much easier for rescuers to spot than a person walking.
- Carry plenty of drinking water, more than you think you'll need.
- Tell someone your route and when you expect to arrive.
- Consider hiring or buying a personal locator beacon or satellite messenger for remote trips.
- Know where the next fuel stop is before you leave the last one.
Our outback driving guide has more on planning remote stretches safely.
Outback driving tips and safety for campervan travellers→Who pays for a campervan breakdown?
It depends on why the van stopped.
Usually the hire company
A genuine mechanical fault, like an engine, gearbox or electrical failure that isn't caused by how the van was used, is normally the hire company's responsibility.
Usually you
- A flat battery from leaving lights or the fridge running off the starter battery
- Putting the wrong fuel in the tank
- Running out of fuel
- Losing or locking the keys inside
- Flat tyres and damage from hitting something, often charged against your excess unless your cover includes them
Check your rental terms, because each company draws the line in a slightly different place. Our insurance guide explains how excess and cover options work.
Campervan insurance in Australia explained→How to avoid a breakdown
- Do a walk-around at pick-up and ask staff to show you the fuel type, tyres and battery switch.
- Check tyre pressures and oil if you're doing long distances.
- Don't drive into flooded roads. It's dangerous and often not covered.
- Stick to roads your vehicle is allowed on. Standard campervans are usually not allowed on unsealed roads.
- Rest regularly. Fatigue causes far more trouble than mechanical faults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hire campervans come with roadside assistance in Australia?
Most do. Hire companies usually include a 24/7 roadside assistance line, so call them first if the van breaks down.
What number do I call in an emergency in Australia?
Call 000 for police, fire or ambulance. From a mobile you can also dial 112.
Will I be charged if my campervan breaks down?
Not for a genuine mechanical fault. You're usually charged for things like a flat battery from leaving lights on, the wrong fuel, running out of fuel or lost keys.
What should I do if I break down in the outback?
Stay with your vehicle, keep drinking water, and call roadside assistance if you have reception. If you don't, a satellite device or locator beacon can be a lifesaver.
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