Two campervans can look the same price online and end up costing very different amounts once you add bedding, a camp table and a second driver. Knowing what's included with campervan hire, and what costs extra, makes comparing quotes much easier.
Here's what usually comes with a campervan or motorhome hire in Australia, the extras you'll often pay for, and the questions to ask before you book.
What's usually included
Inclusions vary by company and vehicle, but most Australian campervan and motorhome hires come with the basics for living on the road.
Kitchen gear
A fridge, gas stove or cooktop and sink are standard. Most companies also supply cookware, plates, cutlery, cups and a kettle. Many of the operators we compare include pots, pans, a toaster and utensils, and lots of vans have a microwave that works when you're plugged into power.
Bedding and towels
Many companies include sheets, pillows, a duvet and towels. Some budget companies charge for a linen pack, so check before you book.
Kilometres
Unlimited kilometres is common on Australian campervan hire. Some cheaper deals and relocation specials have limits, and going over them can be expensive on a big trip.
24/7 roadside assistance
Most hire companies include a 24/7 breakdown or roadside assistance line. You call them, not a motoring club, if the van has a mechanical problem.
Basic insurance
Standard damage cover is included, but with an excess you'd pay if something goes wrong. Reducing that excess costs extra.
Other useful bits
- Power lead for powered campsites
- Water hose and bucket
- Dustpan, broom and cleaning basics
- Fire extinguisher
- Toilet chemicals in vans that have a toilet
What usually costs extra
- Excess reduction or a premium cover package
- Camping chairs and table
- Baby and booster seats
- GPS units
- Gas (LPG) refills on some vehicles
- Extra drivers, on some companies' deals
- One way fees, depending on the route
- Pets, where allowed, usually as a fee per hire
Some companies bundle several of these into a premium package along with full insurance. If you'd want the chairs, table and extra driver anyway, a package can work out cheaper than paying for each one.
Costs that are never included
These sit outside the hire price with every company, so budget for them separately:
- Fuel
- Campsite and holiday park fees
- National park entry and camping fees
- Tolls in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane
- Food and groceries
- Tours and attractions
Our Australia road trip budget guide shows how these add up over a typical trip.
Australia road trip budget: how much money do you need?→Questions to ask before you book
- Is bedding included, or is it an extra?
- Are kilometres unlimited?
- What is the excess, and what does reduction cost per day?
- Is there a one way fee for my route?
- How many drivers are included?
- Are camping chairs and a table included?
- Does the van have a toilet or shower, or will I need campgrounds with facilities?
Lowtop, hightop, motorhome or 4WD?
What's included also depends on the vehicle type. A lowtop campervan usually has a simple kitchen and no toilet. A hightop gives you standing room. Motorhomes often add a toilet, shower and more storage, and 4WD campers come with rooftop tents and gear for remote travel.
Compare lowtop campervans→Compare hightop campervans→Compare motorhomes→Compare 4WD campers→How to hire a campervan in Australia, step by step→Frequently Asked Questions
Is bedding included with campervan hire in Australia?
With many companies, yes. Some budget companies charge for a linen pack, so check the inclusions for your vehicle.
Do campervans come with unlimited kilometres?
Many Australian campervan hires include unlimited kilometres, but some cheaper deals and relocations have limits.
Is fuel included in campervan hire?
No. Fuel is almost always extra. You normally pick the van up with a full tank and return it full.
Do I need to bring my own kitchen equipment?
Usually not. Most campervans come with cookware, plates, cutlery and a kettle. You'll just need food and basics like coffee and oil.
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