Step 1: Set the Framework

  1. 1

    Decide on time, distance and pace

    Start with: How many days do you have? Where are you starting and ending? From this, calculate the maximum total driving distance that allows for a relaxed trip — 400–500km per day is a comfortable maximum, giving time for stops and exploration. More than this becomes a driving trip rather than a road trip.

  2. 2

    Choose your route and anchor stops

    Identify 3–5 “must-see” destinations along or near your route. Build the driving days around reaching these. Use Google Maps to check realistic driving times between stops — add 50% to Google’s estimate for a relaxed trip that includes meal stops, fuel, and spontaneous diversions.

Step 2: Research and Book

  1. 3

    Research highlights on each leg

    For each driving day, note 1–3 things worth stopping for along the route: scenic lookouts, swimming holes, towns, wineries, national parks. Apps like Roadtrippers and Wikicamps (Australia) are excellent for this. Build in flexibility — the best road trip moments are often unplanned.

  2. 4

    Book accommodation in advance for popular areas

    For peak periods (school holidays, long weekends) and popular destinations, book 4–8 weeks ahead. For off-peak travel to less-visited areas, 1–2 weeks is usually sufficient. Leaving some nights unbooked allows flexibility but is risky in peak season — having at least the first and last nights confirmed provides a safety net.

  3. 5

    Budget realistically

    Key costs: fuel (calculate from total distance and your car’s fuel consumption), accommodation, food, activities and park entry fees, tolls. Australian road trips: allow $150–250 per day per couple for a comfortable trip with mid-range accommodation and regular restaurant meals. Budget travellers camping and self-catering can do $80–120/day.

Step 3: Prepare the Car

  1. 6

    Car check before departure

    Check: tyre pressure and condition (including spare), engine oil level, coolant, windscreen washer fluid, all lights. For remote outback driving: carry extra water (5+ litres per person), extra fuel in a jerry can, and a first aid kit. Download offline maps for your route in Google Maps before you leave.

Australia-specific tipsWildlife is a serious hazard at dawn, dusk and night. Avoid driving at night on country roads where possible — kangaroos and wombats are responsible for thousands of accidents annually. Install a dashcam (useful for insurance). Carry a paper map as backup for remote areas where phone coverage is absent. Register your itinerary with a responsible person if travelling to remote areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

400–500km is a comfortable daily maximum for most people, allowing for stops, meals and exploration. Beyond 600km, the day becomes primarily driving and fatigue becomes a safety issue. Fatigue is a major cause of road accidents — stop and rest for 15 minutes every 2 hours, share driving if possible, and stop immediately if feeling drowsy. The road will still be there tomorrow.
Wikicamps Australia: comprehensive campsite and free camp database, essential for campers. Roadtrippers: highlights en route. GasBuddy: cheapest fuel near you. Rome2rio: transport options between locations. Snapsave/Trip.com for accommodation deals. Download Google Maps offline maps for each region before you leave mobile coverage. NSW and Queensland national parks require online booking through their respective park apps.