How Much Does an Australian Road Trip Cost?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a road trip in Australia? It’s no secret that Australia has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world, and a road trip is one of the best ways to explore it all.

But before you hit the open road, it’s important to consider the cost. So, how much does an Australian road trip cost? Let’s break it down.

The Vehicle
The first expense to consider is the vehicle itself. If you don’t own a car, you’ll need to rent one.

The cost of renting a car can vary greatly depending on the type of vehicle and the length of your trip. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 per day for a rental car.

If you’re planning a longer trip, you may want to consider buying a car instead of renting one. This can be more cost-effective in the long run, but keep in mind that you’ll need to factor in additional costs such as registration and insurance.

Tip: Consider renting or buying a campervan if you plan on camping during your road trip. This can save money on accommodation costs.

The Route
The route you take will also impact the cost of your road trip. Some areas in Australia are more expensive than others, so it’s important to do your research before hitting the road.

In general, coastal areas tend to be more expensive than inland areas. Popular tourist destinations such as Sydney and Melbourne can also be pricey. On the other hand, smaller towns and rural areas tend to be more affordable.

Tip: Consider taking a less-traveled route or visiting less popular destinations to save money on accommodation and food.

The Accommodation
Accommodation will likely be one of your biggest expenses during your road trip. If you’re not camping, you’ll need to find somewhere to stay each night. The cost of accommodation can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and the location.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per night for a hotel room. Hostels and budget motels are more affordable options, with prices ranging from $20 to $80 per night.

Tip: Consider using websites such as Airbnb or Couchsurfing to find more affordable accommodation options.

The Food
Food is another expense that can add up quickly during a road trip. Eating out at restaurants can be expensive, especially in tourist areas. Fast food and takeaways are more affordable options, but they’re not always the healthiest.

If you have access to cooking facilities, consider buying groceries and cooking your own meals. This can be a great way to save money and eat healthier on your road trip.

Tip: Bring a cooler with you on your road trip so you can store perishable items such as fruits and vegetables.

The Activities
Finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of activities during your road trip. Australia has no shortage of things to see and do, but many activities come with a price tag.

Popular activities such as skydiving or bungee jumping can be expensive, while visiting national parks or hiking trails is often free or low-cost.

Tip: Research free or low-cost activities in each area you visit to save money on entertainment costs.

The Total Cost

So, how much does an Australian road trip cost? The answer is: it depends. The cost of your road trip will depend on factors such as the vehicle, route, accommodation, food, and activities.

On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $300 per day on a road trip in Australia. This may seem like a lot, but keep in mind that it includes all of your expenses such as accommodation, food, and activities.

Conclusion

A road trip in Australia can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it’s important to consider the cost before hitting the open road. By factoring in expenses such as the vehicle, route, accommodation, food, and activities, you can budget accordingly and enjoy your road trip without breaking the bank.