Thinking about a campervan or motorhome holiday but not sure how it all works? You’re in good company. Below are the questions travellers ask us most about campervan hire in Australia and New Zealand, answered in plain English. We compare 100+ campervans and motorhomes across every major brand, so if your question isn’t here, just ask a real person and we’ll sort it out.
What licence do I need to drive a campervan in Australia?
A full car licence (Class C in most states) covers any campervan or motorhome up to 4.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM), and that’s virtually every vehicle in the hire fleets we compare. You only need a heavier Light Rigid (LR) licence for a few very large motorhomes over 4.5t, which are uncommon. Overseas visitors can drive on a current full licence in English, or their home licence plus an International Driving Permit or official English translation. Always carry the original.
How old do I need to be to hire a campervan?
Most brands require drivers to be at least 21 and to have held a full licence for a year or more. A few accept drivers aged 18 to 20 on selected vehicles. Learner permits aren’t accepted, and provisional (P-plate) drivers may be restricted, so let us know your situation and we’ll match you to brands that say yes.
Is there a surcharge for drivers under 25?
Some brands apply a young driver fee for under-25s, often a modest daily amount, while others charge nothing extra. Because we compare across all the major brands, we can point you to the ones with the friendliest under-25 terms for your trip.
Can I pick up in one city and drop off in another?
Yes. One-way hire is popular for routes like Sydney to Cairns or Melbourne to Adelaide. Most brands charge a one-way (relocation) fee, which varies by route and season, and some waive it on certain corridors. We’ll show you the one-way options and the fee up front.
What’s the minimum hire period?
Most campervans and motorhomes have a minimum of 5 nights, though it can be 3 nights in quieter periods or 7 to 10 nights for one-way hires and peak season. Longer trips of 21+ days usually unlock the best daily rates.
How does insurance and the excess or bond work?
Every hire includes basic insurance, but it comes with an excess (the amount you’d pay if the vehicle is damaged), typically $3,000 to $7,500, and higher on large motorhomes. The brand holds a bond on your credit card to cover it. You get the bond back after drop-off, provided the vehicle comes back in good order.
Can I reduce the excess?
Yes. You can pay a daily liability-reduction fee (roughly $35 to $75 a day depending on the vehicle) to cut the excess right down, sometimes to zero, which also lowers the bond. We’ll explain each brand’s cover tiers so you can decide what’s worth it for your trip.
Are kilometres unlimited?
On most Australian hires, yes, unlimited kilometres are included, which is ideal for big-lap and long-distance trips. A few budget deals cap daily kilometres, so we always flag whether your quote is unlimited.
What’s included, like bedding and a kitchen?
Standard inclusions are bedding and linen, a kitchen kit (plates, cutlery, pots, pans, utensils) and basic cooking gear. Most campers have a fridge, gas cooktop and sink. Extras like camp chairs, tables, GPS and child seats are usually add-ons.
Can I bring my pet?
Most major rental brands don’t allow pets in their vehicles because of cleaning and resale rules. There are a small number of pet-friendly operators and conditions. Tell us you’re travelling with a furry friend and we’ll find the options that allow it.
What happens at pick-up and drop-off?
You’ll show your licence and payment card, the team walks you through the vehicle, and you’re away, usually mid-morning to afternoon. Drop-off is typically by late morning. Allow 45 to 60 minutes at pick-up for the handover and any questions.
Can I camp anywhere for free?
Not just anywhere. Australia has thousands of free and low-cost sites (rest areas, showgrounds, some national parks and council-approved spots), but staying overnight in random car parks or beaches is often banned and fined. Self-contained vehicles with a toilet and water get access to more sites. Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate show where it’s legal.
What’s the cancellation policy?
It varies by brand. Many offer free or low-cost cancellation outside a set window (often 21 to 48 days before pick-up), with fees closer to the date. We’ll tell you the exact terms before you book so there are no surprises.
Can I add extra drivers?
Yes. Additional drivers must meet the same age and licence rules and be listed on the agreement. Some brands include one extra driver free; others charge a small daily fee.
Do campervans have a toilet and shower?
Larger motorhomes and self-contained campers do. Compact 2-berth vans usually don’t, and rely on campground and public facilities. If an onboard bathroom matters to you, tell us and we’ll quote only self-contained vehicles.
How far ahead should I book?
For summer, Easter and school holidays, 3 to 6 months ahead gets the best choice and price. Off-peak, a few weeks can be fine, though booking early almost always saves money.
