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.

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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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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.

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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.

Hobart has quietly become our coolest capital, but the real wonder lies just beyond the city limits.

In the cool shade of Kunyani/ Mt Wellington, Hobart has earned a reputation. Home to culture-defining Dark MOFO, the city blends rugged, raw wilderness and rule-breaking galleries. But, step beyond the thrumming capital’s border and you’ll find a new perspective: historic towns, Jurassic-era cliffs and a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Fill your days with epicurean odysseys and wild scenery on the best day trips from Hobart.

Where to stay

Hobart stay with sleek style at Mövenpick hotel — Elevate your Hobart stay with sleek style at Mövenpick.

Behind every good road trip is the perfect home base. Somewhere central to review your camera roll, make the most of Hobart’s dining scene and relax before setting off again.

For modern, Tasmanian-inspired design, book a stay at the Movenpick Hotel Hobart. Standing at the Salamanca Markets, look to the Hobart skyline, and the award-winning hotel will catch your eye. As the third-tallest building in the CBD, the views across the harbour toward Antarctica are totally unique from your room. Here, end each day at the daily free chocolate hour (plus a free Movenpick ice cream for the little ones).

For a more budget-conscious option, head to the picture book, sandstone buildings of Macquarie Street. Nestled along the buzzing, historic streetscape, you’ll find Tasmania’s biggest hotel: the Ibis Styles. Return home each day to defrost in one of the hotel’s two saunas. Make use of the proximity to MONA, or take an easy stroll to the candy-coloured cottages of Battery Point between your adventures.

1. Bruny Island

Bruny Island Neck is an isthmus of land connecting north and south Bruny Island. — Begin your adventure with a climb and a view. (Credit: Elise Weaver)

Craggy cliffs and tropical-hued, white sand beaches signal your arrival to Bruny Island/ Lunawanna-Alonnah.

Start your day trip at the island’s most iconic spot, the Neck Game Reserve. Scale the Trunganini steps to gaze out over the teensy stretch of land that juts through the sea connecting the two ends of the island.

Catch a rare glimpse of the white-furred wallabies that call Bruny Island home at Adventure Bay. Then, for ocean-fresh oysters, pull into the drive-thru window at Get Shucked. Sample Bruny Island cheese at the cellar door before catching the ferry home with an esky full of local produce.

2. Mount Wellington

Mount Wellington Summit tasmania — Climb through alpine forest to the summit. (Credit: Samuel Shelley)

At 1271 metres, Mount Wellington watches protectively over Hobart. Follow the winding road to climb through alpine forest and tufts of snow to reach the summit. Gaze down over Hobart and out to sea, or over your shoulder to the southwestern wilderness.

Reset your adrenaline with a mountain bike ride back down. Or, make like the locals and head into the mountain on foot. Try the hike to the Jurassic-period Organ Pipes, which slips under the mountain’s magnificent dolerite cliffs (perfect for families thanks to the trail’s minimal incline).

For a view of Mount Wellington itself, hike nearby Cathedral Rock.

2. Port Arthur

Port Arthur tasmania — Wander through convict-built grounds and gardens. (Credit: Alastair Bett)

Constructed entirely by convicts, the manicured gardens and penal buildings of Port Arthur offer a day trip that practically hums with history.

The rugged, seagirt location was chosen for its difficult escape conditions. Now, you can cruise the coast below the towering, jagged cliffs of the Tasman National Park or wander the sloping fields of fragrant lavender.

Tickets to Port Arthur include a walking tour and harbour cruise. See the Isle of the Dead where 1000 men are buried in marked and unmarked graves. And Point Puer, Britain’s first prison for children.

3. Launceston

Duck Reach Power Station Bridge Cataract Gorge launceston — Walk the sunlit paths of Cataract Gorge. (Credit: Nick H Visuals)

You’ll find Launceston at the confluence of three rivers after an easy 2.5-hour drive from Hobart. Launceston is a patchwork of old and new. Here, heritage streetscapes meet modern architecture.

Visit Cataract Gorge, the green, sun-dappled heart of the town and sacred meeting point for Tasmania’s indigenous communities. Pull up at roadside produce stalls that dot the Tamar Valley, or dine out. Launceston is, after all, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Should the local wine scene persuade you, simply extend your time in Launceston at Peppers Silo (but definitely at least stop by the onsite restaurant, Grain of the Silo, for a farm fresh menu) or Mercure Launceston before heading back to Hobart.

4. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

woman with wombat at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary — Snap a cuddle-worthy encounter. (Credit: Tourism Australia)

Take a 35-minute drive from your hotel and you’ll find Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. This social enterprise is run by a team of extremely passionate Tasmanians with a mission to look after critically endangered species who have found sanctuary here after facing extinction on the mainland.

Choose to wander the sanctuary at your own pace or join a guided tour (free with your ticket) to come face to face with Tassie’s most iconic species. Tasmanian Devils, wombats and echidnas are part of the free tour. You can book up close encounters with your favourite animals, too.

5. Richmond Village & Coal River Valley

Richmond is a picture-perfect town in the Coal River Valley wine region, offering a glimpse into early colonial life, one of the best day trips from Hobart. — Trace the river through history and wine country. (Credit: Alastair Bett)

Richmond is a town that belongs in a snow globe. Fifty colonial-era, Georgian buildings have been painstakingly restored and turned into cafes, cosy restaurants and galleries. Visit Richmond Gaol, said to be the home of a prisoner so vile he inspired Charles Dickens to pen Oliver Twist’s Fagin.

Then, follow the Coal River as it flows past grassy, duckling-dotted knolls and under the iconic Richmond Bridge, the oldest bridge in Australia. From the crest of the bridge, see the oldest Catholic Church in Australia. The river crawls past many cellar doors, perfect for a day of wine tasting.

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.

Back to Roadtrippin’ Australia

Set off with confidence