Best Seasons For A Road Trip In Australia: Tips and Destinations for the Budget-Conscious

Drive into the vibrant seasons in Australia! With so many different experiences and destinations on offer, it can be hard to decide what season is best for a road trip in Australia.

With our comprehensive guide you’ll have everything you need to decide when you should go for a motorhome holiday! From safety tips to budget-saving tricks and top destinations, get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

How To Budget On A Summer Road Trip

Ah, summer in Australia—long days, warm nights, and the open road beckoning! Holidaying during this bustling season offers a unique chance to witness sun-kissed beaches and lively festivals.

Driving Tips for Summer In Australia

Beat the Heat: First things first—driving a motorhome in summer means sunny days and warm weather. Your vehicle’s air conditioning will be in top shape before you head out, but it helps to travel during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon. Especially if you’re driving in the outback or hotter parts of Queensland.

Stay Hydrated: Keep plenty of water on hand. Dehydration can sneak up on you when you're at the wheel for long stretches.

Take Breaks: This applies for any season, but you should take opportunities to stretch your legs and go for a walk where possible. This can be a bathroom break, a coffee shop, or a small hike to a lookout.

Check Fire Bans & Road Closures: Summer in Australia often brings bushfires. Stay updated with local news or apps like Fires Near Me to avoid closed routes and high-risk areas.

Ways to Save Money On A Summer Road Trip

Camp Smart: Use apps like WikiCamps to find free or low-cost camping sites. Booking well in advance can be a lifesaver during the high season, both in terms of savings and avoiding the panic of a booked-out campsite.

Cook Your Meals: Take advantage of your motorhome's facilities to cook meals rather than eat out. Local markets are great for picking up fresh and affordable produce.

Fuel Up Wisely: Fuel is the biggest expense on a road trip. Fill up your tank where prices are competitive and use apps like Fuel Map Australia to find deals along your route.

Must-Visit Summer Destinations

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria: This iconic road trip offers stunning ocean views and charming towns. Stop at famous spots like the Twelve Apostles and Bells Beach.

Great Barrier Reef, Queensland: Queensland offers classic landscapes and ancient culture. While peak season runs from June to October, summer is a great time to swim amongst the corals thanks to the clear waters.

This is also the cheapest time for boat tours and a chance to witness the turtle nesting season.

Eyre Peninsula, Western Australia: Take a road trip to the Eyre Peninsula to explore some of the best sights in Australia! Summer is best for swimming and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.

How To Budget On An Autumn Road Trip

Autumn in Australia offers a spectacular palette of colours, milder temperatures, and the perfect setting for a motorhome journey.

As the heat of summer gives way to cooler days, it’s an ideal time to explore the country’s scenic drives and lush landscapes without the peak season crowds.

Driving Tips for Autumn

Watch for Falling Leaves: Be cautious on roads covered in fallen leaves, especially on curves and downhill stretches. While beautiful, these can be slippery after rain.

Beware of Early Sunsets: Days are shorter in autumn. Avoid being on the road too late in the day when visibility is low.

Prepare for Varying Temperatures: Your motorhome’s heating system will be functioning, but it doesn’t hurt to pack some warm clothing.

Ways to Save Money on an Autumn Road Trip

Shoulder Season Prices: Many campgrounds offer lower rates during the autumn months, which are considered shoulder seasons in many parts of Australia. Take advantage of these lower prices.

Seasonal Produce: Visit local farmers' markets to buy fresh, in-season produce at lower prices. These are perfect for road trip snacks or meals.

Must-Visit Autumn Destinations

The Blue Mountains, New South Wales: Just a few hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a spectacle to behold! Hiking trails offer breathtaking views of waterfalls and cliffs.

The Barossa Valley, South Australia: Famous for its vineyards, autumn is harvest time. Enjoy wine tasting and the beautiful vineyard landscapes adorned in gold and red hues.

Tasmania’s East Coast: Explore dramatic coastlines and quaint towns! Autumn’s mild weather is perfect for Tasmania’s renowned fresh seafood and a fantastic time to witness the turning of the Fagus across Tasmania’s high country.

How To Budget On A Winter Road Trip

Winter in Australia isn't just about cosying up indoors; it's a season bursting with potential for adventure!

Travelling by motorhome during this season allows you to appreciate the beauty of frosty landscapes and join seasonal activities like skiing or whale watching - all while keeping your costs to a minimum.

Driving Tips for Winter In Australia

Keep Your Vehicle Warm: Winter can get frosty, especially during the morning. You may have to defrost your windscreen if you’re travelling somewhere like Tasmania.

Drive During Daylight: With shorter days and potential fog or frost, it’s safest to drive your motorhome during daylight hours to maximise visibility.

Be Prepared for Any Weather: Watch for ice, especially if you plan to visit mountainous areas, and drive slow with your headlights on if you encounter mist in colder states.

How to Save Money on a Winter Road Trip

Cheap Attractions & Tours: Winter means lower rates and fewer crowds! Many companies offer off-season pricing on attractions and tours, so take a look around and see what you can find.

Winter Camping Discounts: Many holiday parks and campgrounds offer off-season pricing as well, so you’ll often get a good deal on your accommodation for the night.

Cook Indoors: Use your motorhome’s kitchen to make hearty stir-fries and one-pot meals perfect for cold weather. Cooking your own meals will save you money on dining out and help keep the space warm.

Must-Visit Winter Destinations

The Snowy Mountains, NSW: Whilst you can’t get to some areas like Kosciuszko National Park between June and October thanks to the heavy snow, there are plenty of other places you can stop for an alpine experience in NSW.

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria: That’s right! The Great Ocean Road is great all year round. Witness the beauty of the Southern Ocean in winter, with dramatic weather that makes for spectacular viewing of the rugged coastline. Plus, you can catch the whale migration season.

Port Douglas, Queensland: The best thing about Australia is that you can still find warm destinations even in winter! Head up to Port Douglas for the Dry season and enjoy the sunshine, fresh breezes, and a belated summer getaway.

How To Budget On A Spring Road Trip

Spring in Australia brings vibrant life, with landscapes covered in colourful flowers and lively wildlife. With the weather turning warmer but not yet at the summer peak, it’s a fantastic season to hit the road and enjoy the scenic beauty without the high-season crowds.

Driving Tips for Spring In Australia

Watch Out for Wildlife: Springtime increases wildlife movement. Be alert, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are at their peak activity.

Allergy Medication: For any of our pollen sufferers, it doesn’t hurt to bring some antihistamine along for the ride – especially if you’re going hiking.

Prepare for Rain: Spring inevitably brings rain. Pack a raincoat and slow down on the roads when the showers start.

Ways to Save Money While Traveling in a Motorhome

Enjoy Plentiful Camping: Go online to find free or low-cost camping sites in Australia. Spring offers more availability without the eye-watering summer costs.

Embrace Shoulder Season Discounts: Many attractions and parks offer lower rates in spring before the peak tourist season begins.

Must-Visit Spring Destinations

Margaret River, Western Australia: Renowned for its wineries and surf, this is also one of the best regions to visit during spring for wildflower season.

The Grampians, Victoria: The Grampians are spectacular in spring if you love hiking, with wildflowers and abundant wildlife everywhere!

Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory: Spring, or the late dry season, is the time to visit Kakadu. The weather is comfortable, and the park’s waterfalls and billabongs are full from the wet season.

It’s Time For Your Road Trip In Australia!

With so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide what is the best season to visit Australia! So do a bit of research, see what events and festivals are around, and have an idea of the types of activities you’re keen to do on your holiday.

You can even get 10% off with our Long Hire Discount if you’re keen to check off a few seasons in one trip!

Ready for your motorhome holiday in Australia! Start your adventure today and call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the motorhomes we have available at our branches!