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Plan your camper trip through Australia – find your ideal camper in minutes

Road Genius compares campervan rentals from major and local suppliers across Australia so you can find the right vehicle and price. Main pick-up locations include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Hobart, each connected to scenic drives such as the Great Ocean Road, the Red Centre Way or Tasmania's East Coast. Because Australia spans tropical to temperate climate zones, smart travelers plan routes that follow the milder seasons.

Campervan Rental Cost

How much does it cost to hire a campervan in Australia?

Campervan rental costs in Australia depend on factors like camper size, age, features, booking duration, season and pick-up/drop-off locations.

Generally, basic vans for 1-2 people range from AUD $35 to $150 per day, while larger motorhomes for 4-6 people range from AUD $150 to $500 per day.

Prices vary by supplier, so using a comparison tool is recommended. Additional costs may apply for extras.

Best Time for an RV Trip

Period Average High Temperature °C / °F Recommendation
Summer (Dec–Feb) 28 / 82 Good for south & Tasmania; outback very hot
Autumn (Mar–May) 23 / 73 Pleasant weather nationwide
Winter (Jun–Aug) 17 / 63 Best for north & Red Centre; cool in south
Spring (Sep–Nov) 22 / 72 Wildflowers and mild weather
Northern Wet Season (Nov–Apr) 32 / 90 Possible; heavy rain and cyclones
Northern Dry Season (May–Oct) 29 / 84 Peak season for northern Australia

Driving in Australia

  • City speed limit is 50 km/h (31 mph); highways are usually 100–110 km/h (62–68 mph) unless signed differently.
  • Fuel stations can be 100–250 km (62–155 mi) apart in remote areas; fill up fuel and water supplies early.
  • Road trains up to 53 m (174 ft) long create strong wind when passing; wait for a long clear section before overtaking.
  • Cell phone coverage is limited outside towns; carry an emergency beacon or satellite phone when traveling to remote areas.
  • Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane toll roads use electronic payment systems; visitors can buy a Linkt pass online or at service stations.
  • Police conduct random breath tests and speed checks; fines are issued immediately or sent to the rental company.
  • Many national park and outback roads are unsealed; check your rental agreement before driving on gravel roads.

Camping Options

Type Facilities Benefits Drawbacks
BIG4 Holiday Parks (nationwide) Full facilities Reliable sites, laundry, pools Higher cost, book early during school holidays
National Park Campgrounds (e.g. Wilsons Promontory VIC, Kakadu NT) None or water only Beautiful scenery, wildlife, low fee Vehicle length limit 8 m, must book in advance
Free Highway Rest Areas (government-approved) None Free, no booking needed, good for overnight stops Maximum 24 hour stay, basic toilets, truck noise
Showgrounds & Town Ovals Water and electricity Low cost, walking distance to shops Closed during local events
Station Stays & Farm Camps (outback) None Authentic bush experience, large sites Rough access roads, bring own water

Resupply Options

  • BP, Ampol and Shell service stations sell diesel, swap LPG bottles and often provide free drinking water with fuel purchase.
  • The Dump-ezy / CMCA Dump Point network in most towns handles gray water and black water disposal.
  • Coles, Woolworths and Aldi supermarkets are common along the coast; many offer click-and-collect service for easy restocking.

Important Information

  • Kangaroos, cattle and camels are active on roads at dawn and dusk; plan to stop driving before dark in rural areas.
  • Cyclone and monsoon season affects tropical north from November to April; check road closure updates daily.
  • Bushfire danger is highest in the south during summer; download state fire alert apps before traveling.
  • Fresh fruit, vegetables and honey are restricted at state border quarantine checkpoints—use the disposal bins provided or face fines.
  • Snow chains may be required on Alpine Way and Great Alpine Road when signs are displayed; ask your rental company about this.
  • Call 000 (or 112 from any cell phone) for police, fire or ambulance anywhere in Australia.

FAQs

How old do I need to be to rent a campervan in Australia?

In Australia, most campervan rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old to rent from their full selection of vehicles.

Some companies do allow drivers aged 18 to 21, but they might offer only certain models, and extra insurance could be necessary.

Simply enter the driver's age into our search tool, and we'll show you the vehicles that are available for you.

Can I collect my camper from the airport?

While most RV rental companies aren't located directly at Australian airports, their depots are usually nearby, within 2 to 30 kilometers.

Many providers offer free shuttle services to their depots if you book ahead. Alternatively, public buses, shuttles, and taxis are also available for transport.

What kind of license do I need to rent a campervan in Australia?

To rent a campervan, each driver needs to have a valid, full driver's license. If your license is in English, you're all set. If not, make sure to have an official English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Are one-way campervan rentals available in Australia?

Absolutely! Most companies offer the option of one-way rentals, with pickup and drop-off locations available across Australia.

Although there is often an extra charge for one-way rentals, it will be included in the price our comparison tool displays.