If you are planning a road trip around Tasmania, one of the first questions that may come to your mind is: how long will it take to explore this beautiful island? The answer to this question really depends on how much time you have and what you want to see and do.
Tasmania is a small state, but there are many amazing sights and experiences to be had here. In this article, we’ll explore some of the factors that can affect the length of your road trip and offer some tips for planning your itinerary.
Factors Affecting Your Road Trip
One of the biggest factors that will determine how long your road trip around Tasmania will take is how much time you have available. If you only have a few days, you may want to focus on one or two areas of the state rather than trying to see everything. On the other hand, if you have several weeks or more, you can take your time and explore all corners of Tasmania.
Another factor that can affect your itinerary is the season in which you plan to visit. Summer (December-February) is the peak tourist season in Tasmania, so expect crowds and higher prices during this time.
However, summer also offers long days with plenty of daylight for exploring. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are also great times to visit as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists around.
The route you take around Tasmania will also impact how long your trip takes. The most popular route is the clockwise loop from Hobart down to Port Arthur, up the east coast to Freycinet National Park, across to Launceston and then down through Cradle Mountain National Park before returning back Hobart. This route takes approximately 10-14 days depending on how much time you spend in each location.
Tips for Planning Your Itinerary
Here are some tips for planning an itinerary for your road trip around Tasmania:
1. Prioritize Your Must-See Destinations
Make a list of the places you absolutely must see and prioritize them in your itinerary. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you don’t miss out on anything important.
2. Give Yourself Some Flexibility
While it’s important to have an itinerary, it’s also important to give yourself some flexibility. Leave some open days in your schedule so that you can take detours, spend extra time in places that you love, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
3. Plan Your Accommodation and Transport
Book your accommodation and transport in advance, especially during peak season. There are many options for accommodation in Tasmania, from camping and caravan parks to luxury lodges and hotels. You can also rent a car or campervan to explore the state at your own pace.
4. Pack for All Seasons
Tasmania can experience four seasons in one day, so be sure to pack clothing for all types of weather. Layering is key, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on where you are on the island.
- Essentials: Passport (if coming from overseas), driver’s license, credit cards/cash, phone charger, map or GPS device.
- Clothing: Warm jacket or coat (even in summer), waterproof shoes or boots, hat and sunscreen.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap/shampoo/conditioner/face wash/moisturizer/lip balm/hand sanitizer/tissues.
- Miscellaneous: Camera with extra memory card/battery charger/adapter/tripod, binoculars, books/magazines/e-reader, snacks/drinks.
5. Be Prepared for Long Drives
Tasmania is a small state but there are long distances between some of the major attractions. Be prepared for long drives and plan plenty of rest stops along the way. The roads in Tasmania can be narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
In Conclusion
A road trip around Tasmania can be an incredible adventure, no matter how much time you have available. By prioritizing your must-see destinations, giving yourself some flexibility, planning your accommodation and transport in advance, packing for all seasons and being prepared for long drives, you can make the most of your time on this beautiful island. So start planning your itinerary today and get ready to experience all that Tasmania has to offer!