Best Campervan Routes in Australia for First-Time Travellers

Hiring a campervan in Australia is one of the most exciting ways to explore the country, especially if it’s your first time. With the freedom to go where you want, stop when you like, and sleep under the stars, it’s no wonder road trips are a favourite with travellers from all over the world.

In this guide, we’ll share the best campervan routes in Australia for first-time travellers — from tropical coastlines to rugged outback adventures. Each route links to our detailed hire pages so you can plan your journey and book your campervan with ease.

Sydney to Cairns – The Classic East Coast Adventure

Distance: ~2,500km | Recommended time: 14–21 days
This is Australia’s most famous road trip and for good reason. Starting in Sydney, you’ll travel along the Pacific Coast, stopping at Byron Bay, Fraser Island (K’gari), and the Whitsundays before reaching tropical Cairns.
Highlights: Surfing at Byron Bay, visiting the Great Barrier Reef, exploring rainforest in the Daintree
More info: /sydney-to-cairns-campervan-hire

Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road

Distance: ~1,000km | Recommended time: 5–7 days
From Melbourne, head west along one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. The Great Ocean Road is packed with beaches, cliffs, and wildlife — perfect for a shorter trip. Finish in Adelaide, exploring wine regions along the way.
Highlights: The Twelve Apostles, koala spotting in Kennett River, tasting wine in the Coonawarra
More info: /melbourne-to-adelaide-campervan-hire

Perth to Broome – Western Australia’s Coral Coast

Distance: ~2,400km | Recommended time: 12–16 days
From Perth, travel north along the Coral Coast to Broome. Expect white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and some of Australia’s most remote beauty spots.
Highlights: Snorkelling at Ningaloo Reef, sunset on Cable Beach, national parks like Kalbarri and Karijini
More info: /perth-to-broome-campervan-hire

Darwin to Adelaide – The Explorers Way

Distance: ~3,000km | Recommended time: 14–21 days
Starting in Darwin, this route takes you through the heart of Australia via Alice Springs and Uluru, finishing in Adelaide. It’s a true outback adventure with huge distances and incredible scenery.
Highlights: Kakadu National Park, Kings Canyon, Uluru and Kata Tjuta
More info: /darwin-to-adelaide-campervan-hire

Tasmania Loop – Hobart and Beyond

Distance: ~1,500km | Recommended time: 7–10 days
Begin in Hobart and loop around Tasmania’s rugged coastline and wilderness. From Wineglass Bay to Cradle Mountain, Tasmania is compact but packed with natural beauty.
Highlights: Hiking in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Wineglass Bay’s white sand and turquoise waters, historic Port Arthur
More info: /tasmania-campervan-hire

Tips for First-Time Campervan Travellers

Plan your distances – Avoid driving more than 4–5 hours a day
Book campsites early – Especially in peak season
Check the weather – Northern Australia has a wet and dry season
Download travel apps – CamperMate or WikiCamps are great for finding campsites and facilities

Start Your Australian Road Trip Today

Whether you choose the tropical East Coast, the rugged West, or the red heart of the Outback, hiring a campervan is the best way to experience Australia. Use our live booking tool to compare campervan hire prices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and beyond — and start planning your perfect route today.