7 tips for road tripping success these holidays

From the moment free-wheeling Australians sensed light through the cracks of state border restrictions, we’ve been dreaming up travel extravaganzas larger than the Big Banana, Pineapple and Yamba Prawn combined.

After two undeniably long years of thwarted travel plans, our patience is running on empty. However, while undeterrable travel-addicts are crossing fingers and toes and gambling on international flights, many Australians aren’t quite ready to risk booking overseas travel.

Driving the great ocean road — Get ready to hit the road again.

Back to Roadtrippin’ Australia

As a result of precious time loss, our silver-nomads and young families alike are reassessing lifelong international travel plans.

Every Australian deserves safe, assured, personalised holidays and happily, all those ‘good things promised to those who wait’ are finally being presented on a large, delectable platter. It’s time to take back the streets, the highways and country roads of Australia, to rule the cities and the coastline, the outback and the tropics. It’s time for some holiday DIY (drive it yourself)!

A 4WD driving on sand — From beach to bush to outback, make sure you are well prepared.

Set off with confidence

Yes, the great Aussie road trip is back in full throttle! However, before you drive off into the sunset, we suggest settling your engines for some sage advice.

Now is not the time for total spontaneity, or leaving things to chance, especially when carrying precious cargo – that includes you, your loved ones (furry or otherwise) and even the Christmas Pav.

Whether you’re heading home for the holidays, embarking on a driving adventure across our dusty plains, honed-in on seven glorious days around Tasmania, cruising even a small portion of our stunning coastline or meandering your four-wheel-drive deep into rainforest tranquillity, the one thing you absolutely cannot do without is solid planning. The very act of driving across our enormous, rugged country, where towns can be situated days apart, takes a certain level of skill, preparedness and awareness.

We don’t wish to deter you, far from it – we want to make sure you get away without a hitch! So, in the essence of mateship and spirit of holidays past, present and future we are wrapt to present you with our ‘we’ve got your back’ travel pack of expert tips. Just follow the checklist below to avoid common road-trip pitfalls and further disappointment. Let this summer holiday be ruled equally by heart and common sense.

Your Australian road tripping safety checklist

beat up car — Is your car up to the journey? It may be time to upgrade your vehicle.

1. Is your car up to the challenge?

A quick check up at your local service centre might seem like ‘just another expense’, especially in holiday season, but in the long run it could save you truckloads of cash and most importantly keep you safe. Be prepared for items like brake pads, tyres, and anything else that wears, to possibly need replacing before you take off; of course, if you’ve been thinking about buying a new car now might provide the perfect opportunity.
If the festive season isn’t the time to gift and receive thousands of safe, ergonomically sound, air-conditioned kilometres of road travel – well when the heck is? Be warned however, with vehicle supply delays, dealers have the upper hand. The best way to save is by securing your most competitive interest rate by seeking car loan pre-approval.

Planning a road trip — Loosely planning your road trip is not just sensible but fun.

2. Scouting your route

No matter how long you’re planning to be away there’s plenty to be considered before checking your rear-view mirrors and taking off. Loosely planning your entire route, perhaps detailing the first couple of legs, will save time and frustration, as well as ensure your focus remains on the road ahead. Planning comfort breaks and leg stretches with something for the kids to do is critical when you have the entire brood on board.
Use digital maps such as Google to plot out essential points on route – from coffee and toilet stops to fuel and police stations (particularly if travelling solo), to tollways and places of interest you’ll likely miss if you stick to the main drag.
From time to time, you may find yourself out of mobile phone reception range, so before you leave, download whatever information you need, including maps, onto your device. Don’t scrimp on your playlists, a bit of chill or trance might be perfect for short scenic drives but hours into extended trips and you’re likely to need something a little more upbeat.

Packed car — Consider your cargo and what can safely fit in your car.

3. Consider your cargo

Sure, there’s the obvious packing to be done (e.g. clothes, toiletries and essential medications) and begging for favours (i.e. neighbours to feed the cat, water the plants, collect the mail etc) – but there are fewer things more crucial than securing extra oil, radiator fluid and more water than you think you’ll need – especially if driving on remote stretches without access to roadside assistance.
The essential list of items to pack for a remote Aussie road trip include a 2-way radio, survival kit and other specialised equipment may be necessary, so be sure to do your research when navigating unfamiliar outback destinations. Check for last minute items like mints or ginger sweets for tummies prone to motion sickness, wet wipes, hand sanitiser, small garbage bags, pet bowls and eucalyptus oil to mask funky odours. Don’t forget the Eski, back support pillow and a first aid kit if not already on board… ah, you’ve got this. Lastly, get a good night’s sleep.

Set off early to avoid heavy traffic and delays.

4. Ready, set, go.

Leave early to avoid traffic and stay refreshed longer. Keep hydrated (also caffeinated, if that’s your thing). Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination; in peak travel periods a breakdown, even if it’s someone else’s, can add hours to your journey and there’s never a good reason to rush on the road – holiday calling or not. If travelling with friends arrange a kitty for petrol, tolls, snacks, cleaning etc. If kids are along for the ride, and miraculously don’t have their heads glued to an electronic device, pre-plan some games or a singalong (I mean who doesn’t love a few thousand rounds of eye-spy with my little eye, or never-ending chorus of Kookaburra sits in the old gumtree), or other in-car activities to keep them occupied and your head from spinning off on the longest expanses.

Big Banana Coffs harbour — Break up he drive with a selfie at one of Australia’s ‘big things’. (Image: DNSW)

5. Stay on track

Break up the drive with regular stops at scenic lookouts or interesting towns. Gulp plenty of fresh sea or country air – it’s free and a great way to refresh and reset. Alternatively, spending some money in a regional bakery or cafe can go a long way to helping the locals and spreading holiday cheer – it’s also good for the soul. If you’re feeling sleepy or unwell make sure you pull over for a break or nap, swap with a co-driver or call it a night and stay at the nearest accommodation.

Car Rental Sign Airport — Consider clocking up miles on someone’s else’s car via a rental.

6. Rocking a rental

If time is of the essence? Hiring a car to suit your holiday budget, comfort and personal style requirements might be the answer, with the added bonus you are adding kms to the odometer of a car that is not yours. The booking process is simple, and you drive away safe in the knowledge that all reputable companies run their fleet through constant safety assessments and upgrades. Purchase comprehensive insurance (read the fine print) and you’ll avoid additional costs in the case of an accident. If your rental is out of action, it will be swiftly replaced for continuing your trip. It’s worth shopping around as prices do vary and may increase with demand. Book as soon as you’ve circled your travel dates, otherwise those already on track with their holiday-road-trip-to-freedom may well have scarfed the lot.

Hook turn sign, Melbourne — Remember that this may be one country but road rules do change between cities… Melbourne’s hook turn being the most notorious.

7. Additional extras

You might be an excellent driver and know your automobile inside and out, but road conditions and rules vary from state to state so it’s worth educating yourself for possible anomalies (think Victoria’s infamous hook turns or giving way to horses in Queensland). When your vehicle is heavily laden, you’ll also need to be mindful of issues such as your headlights shining higher, or your newly low-hanging chassis being damaged on uneven surfaces. Know your tow limits, height and width restrictions and if going off-road ensure your wheels (including spares) and suspension are up to the task. Finally, remember, once you’re out there, to relax, take in the beauty of your surroundings, let the wind blow through your hair – and enjoy your well-earned break, assured everything is in check. You’re welcome. Happy holidays.

From cabins to canvas, craft distillers to destination dining, Heathcote locals reveal their eco-savvy passions in ways that resonate with those seeking to travel lightly.

Heathcote , on traditional Taungurung Country in Central Victoria, is synonymous with its garnet-hued shiraz, but wine isn’t the only string to its bow. The town itself is sprinkled with heritage buildings from the gold rush era, and beyond that a growing collection of sustainable gastronomy and eco-friendly escapes. Nearby Bendigo, one of only 65 cities in the world recognised as a UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy, plates up an astonishing calibre of produce, wine and food for its size. Increasingly the entire region is taking up the challenge, though Heathcote in particular shines with its focus on sustainability.

Pink Cliffs GeologicalReserve — The dramatic landscape of Heathcote’s Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve. (Image: Visit Victoria/Emily Goodfrey)

The eco-stays bringing sustainability to Heathcote

Yellow BoxWood’s safari-style tents — Yellow Box Wood’s safari-style tents are nestled on 40 hectares of bushland. (Image: Emily Goodfrey)

Andee and Lisa Davidson spent years working in southern Africa before settling in Heathcote. “We had a vision of how this could be,” explains Andee. “We wanted a retreat, but one that was off-grid and environmentally sustainable.” Now, at Yellow Box Wood , two luxury safari-style tents are at the heart of 40 hectares of rolling hills and native bush, with kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, goanna and birdlife aplenty. It’s all solar-powered, wood for the fire is mainly fallen timber, and water is collected on the carport roof. No lack of creature comforts though – en suite with rain shower, espresso coffee maker, comfy seating, wood-burning fire all set to go. There’s also a solar-heated, mineral salt pool in a bush setting, walking tracks, and even a mini bush golf course. On my visit, I put the vision to the test. Cocooned in the plush four-poster bed I can glimpse the stars, while the heater casts a golden glow on the canvas. In the morning, I wake to a blush-pink sunrise, kangaroos feeding and a soundtrack of magpies.

If a tent is not your style, Stephen and Cally Trompp’s carbon-neutral Mt Ida Eco Cabin might entice with its generous deck and farmland views. Inside the cabin, corrugated iron walls as rusty as a shearing shed, gleaming (recycled) floorboards, timber truss ceiling (crafted by Stephen), wood-fired heater and an old-school turntable with a pile of vinyls to spin. It’s fun, and a little boho. “Everything is recycled. The cabin takes maximum advantage of the sun in winter. It’s all solar-powered. Don’t panic, though,” says Stephen, “you can still charge your phone and get 4G reception!” Settle into an Adirondack chair on the deck or pedal off on a mountain bike to suss out the wineries.

A taste of Spain in Central Victoria

Another person with a vision is Evan Pritchard at his Three Dams Estate where the wines reflect his deep love of Spain and of Spanish-style grapes, such as tempranillo. Afternoons in the ‘wine shed’ or cantina are matched with music (flamenco is a favourite), Spanish bites from tapas to paella (with Evan on the pans!) and views to Mount Alexander. Sustainability is also a passion. “You don’t need to buy anything. We decided to be off-grid from the start, but it is a lifestyle change,” he says. “You need to think about it and be careful.” Everything here is recycled, reassembled, refurbished. Evan has an electric car (with solar-powered charger), solar-power for the winery, and even a jaunty little electric tractor/forklift. “I love the idea of all the things you can do using the sun.” Sipping a crisp rosado (a Spanish rosé) with Evan in the sunshine, I couldn’t agree more.

The vineyard redefining sustainable winemaking

Silver Spoon winery — The Silverspoon Estate winery is completely off-grid. (Image: Graham Hosking)

On the other side of Heathcote, Silver Spoon Estate demonstrates sustainability on a more extensive scale. Tracie and Peter Young’s winery, cellar door, award-winning restaurant and their own house are all solar-powered and off the grid. Sustainability is intrinsic to everything they do. The property sprawls across 100 hectares, with 20 hectares under vine – shiraz, viognier, grenache, tempranillo. As the climate has changed, so too has the approach. These are dry-grown vineyards. “We prune for drought. That means lower yields but more intense flavours,” says Peter. The fine-dining restaurant offers sweeping views, a wood-burning fire and a deck for languid lunches. Head chef Ben Hong sources regional, sustainable ingredients and weaves estate wines into the menu – think crispy wild mushroom arancini, viognier-infused chicken breast.

Silver Spoon’s award-winning restaurant.

Heathcote’s other hidden gems

Not all local wineries have a cellar door, but I find local treasures at the Heathcote Wine Hub , a petite 1855 timber church in the main street, lovingly returned to life by Karen Robertson and Carey Moncrieff. “Carey is a scrounger,” says Karen. “He doesn’t throw a single thing away.” He does, however, craft things into something quite special. Heritage floors, light-filtering lancet windows and shelves of regional wines create the perfect ambience for wine tasting. Or order a glass and linger over a cheese platter.

Heathcote is not all wine, of course. Nathan Wheat and partner Vanessa Curtis run Envy Distilling with a committed sustainable ethic – and a serious love of gin. Their small-batch distillery produces grape-based gin, and soon brandy. Distilled water is reused in an ingenious cooling system. All waste is treated on site. They buy excess wine from winemakers to distil and buy recycled barrels. “Distilling with the sun,” as Nathan says. Each Envy gin has its own story. Spicy, award-winning The Dry, is designed to capture the region’s dry, rugged nature. Pull up a stool at the bar (reclaimed timbers and tiles, of course), order a Gin Flight, or kick back with a cocktail and let Nathan share his eco journey.

Envy gins — Sample gins at small-batch distillery Envy.

A traveller’s checklist

Getting there

It’s less than two hours’ drive from Melbourne. The scenic route we take goes past Sunbury, then along a splendid country road through Romsey and the magic, boulder-strewn landscape of Lancefield. Watch for kangaroos on the road!

Staying there

Go off-grid in style at Yellow Box Wood for glamping or try Mt Ida Eco Cabin for a couple’s weekend hideaway.

Eating there

French dishes at Chauncy — Award-winning French restaurant Chauncy.

At award-winning Chauncy , French chef Louis Naepels and sommelier wife Tess Murray have created a tiny, elegant pocket of rural France. Meticulously restored 1850s sandstone building, sun-drenched dining room, impeccable service, a menu suffused with local flavours and thoughtful wine pairings.

Fodder is both cafe and social hub. Chef Mo Pun and sister Lalita serve classic Aussie breakfast-to-lunch fare, though their Nepalese heritage sneaks through.

Playing there

Sanguine Estate ’s cellar door and terrace overlook bucolic vineyards. Its award-winning, dry-grown wines include the distinctive D’Orsa Blanc dessert wine, reflecting the family’s Swiss-Italian heritage. Order a charcuterie board and stay a while. Keep it carbon neutral by cycling some (or all) of the 50-kilometre O’Keefe Rail Trail to Bendigo.

At Bridgeward Grove , learn about the property’s Old Mission Grove heritage olive trees, do a sommelier olive oil tasting, and stock up on sustainably grown olives and oil. Explore the unique landscape, wildflowers and wildlife of pink cliffs geological reserve.