posted on 15 June 2024
With its white sandy beaches and lush rainforests to sprawling national parks and the red dirt of the Outback, it’s not surprising that a big lap of Australia is a bucket list road trip for most.
The drive involves making your way around the country on the longest national highway in the world, N1, as you frequent every state and explore the top sights and attractions each region has to offer.
With so much space to roam, planning such a road trip can be quite a challenging task. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be. In this helpful guide, we’ll be taking you through everything you need to know before embarking on your big lap of Australia road trip.
In this complete guide, we’ll be covering:
- An overview of road-tripping across Australia
- Top tips for driving across Australia
- Top driving itineraries for the Big Lap of Australia
- Final advice for your Australian road trip of a lifetime
Overview of road tripping across Australia
For those new to the idea of road tripping across Australia, you’ve likely got a few burning questions regarding what’s involved, the costs, and when is the best time to complete such an adventure. In this overview, you’ll find everything you need to know before hitting the road.
What is the big lap of Australia?
The big lap of Australia involves driving the length of the country as you take Highway 1, which skirts the entire country. Made up of major highways that include the Princes Highway, Eyre Highway, the Pacific Highway and more, they make up around 14,500 kilometres of road.
With links to all the major capital cities, the big lap allows you to take in all of the iconic attractions and top sights Australia has to offer.
Of course, detours can be made when taking the big lap that allows you to plan your trip around your own travel needs and preferences. For those wanting to explore more of the Australian Outback, you can deviate from the big lap and take the Stuart Highway, joining Darwin and heading to Adelaide. And for those who want to soak up Tasmania’s stunning national parks and top culinary delights, a car ferry (known as the Spirit of Tasmania) can also be taken to Tasmania.
What is the best time of year to drive across Australia?
Given that Australia’s climate varies greatly between its six states and territories, being prepared for all weather conditions is vital when it comes to driving and packing comfortably. In the tropical north, you’ll also have the wet and dry season.
The wet season, which runs from November to April, sees hot and humid days with plenty of rainfall and even a cyclone in some instances. Flooded roads due to heavy rainfall can wreak havoc on your travel plans and driving itinerary, so it’s best to visit the northern half of Australia during the winter months when the days are warm and rainfall is limited.
For the southern half of Australia, typically, the warmer months are recommended. While summer can bring plenty of tourists, spring is a great option and you’ll likely see wildflowers in bloom which can transform the landscape and make for a great photo opportunity. However, for those wanting to do snow sports or snow activities, you’ll want to visit New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania during the winter months which can bring snow to the mountains.
Which vehicle would be best for road tripping across Australia?
For the most part, you’ll drive across roads that are smooth and well-maintained on your road trip across Australia. However, for those looking to explore more remote regions including the Outback and national parks, you can expect some off-road conditions including dirt tracks and rugged terrain.
Ultimately, the best vehicle for taking on this drive is the one you feel most comfortable driving, but with local Turo hosts offering a wide selection of cars to suit every occasion and budget, consider these top options before hitting the road on your adventure.
- Camper van: With a camping van, you don’t have to worry about accommodation as you head out on your next Australian adventure and cruise around with your bedroom at the back. A great option for those tackling the full 12-month Big Lap of Australia or planning to camp at the best campsites in NSW, you can hop into your vehicle and go or set up camp as you please in models like the Renault TRAFIC 2020 and Toyota HIACE 2021.
- SUVs: Travelling with kids? You’ll find a range of full-size SUVs that will ensure no one is left behind. Consider the Mercedes-Benz Vito or Land Rover Range Rover Sport if you need spacious comfort and a luxurious interior.
- Electric cars: If you want a hybrid or fully electric drive, consider options like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Tesla Model 3. Turo allows you to enjoy leading EV technologies with a selection of electric vehicles. You’ll find fast EV charging stations located throughout Australia, making for a comfortable driving experience.
- 8 seaters and people movers: Need more space for kids, fellow travellers, or cargo? You’ll find 8-seaters like the Kia Carnival and oversized SUVs to keep everyone in one car on Turo. With a wide selection of 7-seaters and 8-seaters available from local hosts, your next family holiday will be stress-free as you take in Australia’s unforgettable sights and key attractions.
- 4WDs: For those wanting to explore the outback and more rugged terrains, don’t look past the Jeep Wrangler available on Turo. With a robust four-wheel drive system, solid front and rear axles and removable doors, you’ll be able to travel anywhere most SUVs can’t.
How much does it cost to travel around Oz?
Perhaps the biggest concern for most is how to budget for the road trip across Australia. While several variables can impact your budget, it’s worth setting up a spreadsheet to make a rough calculation and budget for the following expenses.
- Fuel
- Rental vehicle
- Supplies like camping gear, cooking utensils, and bedding
- Tours and location-specific experiences e.g. whale tours in Bremer Bay or snorkeling with Manta Rays in Coral Bay
- Accommodation costs, including camping fees, and hotel costs
- Food
- Camping fees and national park entry
- Incidental expenses like clothes and souvenirs
- Takeaway coffee
- Travel insurance, vehicle insurance, and roadside assistance
The cost of your trip will depend on factors like the length, where you stay, and the activities you plan to do, but most who have tackled the big lap suggest a budget of $78 per person per day.
Food and petrol prices will likely fluctuate depending on the state and time of year, but you can expect to pay around $1.91/litre. For those looking to cut back on expenses, consider options like free camping or staying in caravan parks rather than hotels along the way.
Unfortunately, there is currently no pass for national park entry across Australia. Instead, these are specific to each state. Our tip? Book your national park pass ahead of departure so you have your entry covered. This can be done online at the respective state government park websites, where you can choose from day passes and annual passes and get an idea of vehicle entry fees.
What to know before you go: Top tips for the Big Lap of Australia road trip
While you can expect breathtaking views of coastal scenery, rugged mountain ranges, and lush rainforests, it’s important to be prepared for a range of driving conditions. While you can expect smooth and well-maintained roads for most of the drive, consider these top tips to maximise your trip.
- Depart early: Avoid driving at peak hours when the roads are likely to be congested. Our tip? Leave before 7 am to ensure you’re not rushed and have time for detours and stops along the way while also beating the traffic!
- What to bring: With plenty of national parks and walking trails throughout Australia, we recommend packing comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for exploring the outdoors. You’ll also need sunscreen and a hat to enjoy coastal beaches safely, along with water and snacks. Consider optional add-ons from your Turo hosts, like GPS navigation, beach umbrellas, or camping gear.
- Mobile reception: You can generally expect reliable mobile reception for much of the drive around Australia; however, you may have poor reception when taking scenic detours or exploring national parks and remote communities. Be sure to have printed maps or directions that are saved offline to your device and download any music you may wish to listen to for long drives ahead of departure.
Essentials for your road trip around Australia
Admittedly, packing for a road trip that will see you on the road for three to twelve months can seem daunting. While you want to ensure you’re prepared for anything the trip might throw at you, packing sensibly will not only free up more space in your vehicle but also help keep you comfortable and relaxed throughout the journey. So, consider these essentials when packing for your road trip.
- Documents and essentials: driver’s license, vehicle registration and insurance documents, road map and GPS, emergency contact numbers, first-aid kit, and travel insurance documents.
- Clothing and accessories: hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, swimwear, rain jacket, thermals, sleepwear, undergarments and socks.
- Toiletries and personal items: toothbrush, soap, body wash, deodorant, sunscreen and insect repellent, hand sanitiser, personal medications, hairbrush, lip balm.
- Camping gear: tent and sleeping bags, camping stove and fuel, cooking utensils and dishes, cooler or esky, camping chairs and table, portable solar charger, and pocket knife.
- Electronics: mobile phone and charger, camera, power bank, portable speaker.
- Food and beverages: water bottles and hydration packs (at least 4L of water per person, per day), non-perishable snacks, reusable utensils and cups.
- Vehicle essentials: jerrycan for extra fuel, car jumpstarter and tyre replacement kit, spare keys, and extra engine oil and coolant.
- Safety items: reflective triangles and road flares, fire extinguisher, flashlight with extra batteries, blanket.
- Entertainment: travel games and cards, books or an e-reader, travel pillow and blanket, notebook and pen.
- Miscellaneous: laundry bag, reusable shopping bags, ziplock bags, trash bags, and binoculars.
Before you embark on your Big Lap road trip, consider the wide range of rental vehicles available through local Turo hosts for your journey. Whether you’re looking for a rugged 4WD to tackle the Outback, a spacious SUV for family comfort, or an eco-friendly electric vehicle, Turo offers unique and reliable cars to suit your needs. With convenient pick-up or delivery options, Turo ensures you find the perfect vehicle to make your journey around Australia seamless and enjoyable.
Here’s your ultimate big lap itinerary for 2024
With all that covered, it’s time to hit the road! With unbeatable coastal views, charming country towns, diverse landscapes, and stunning national parks, your big lap of Australia will be a magical experience no matter which itinerary you choose.
12 month trip around Australia itinerary
- Estimated driving time: 320 hours, 41 minutes
- Estimated driving distance: 28,329 kilometres
- Best for: Families, solo travellers, adventurers, and couples looking to soak up the scenic delights, natural beauty, and rich culture that Australia’s states have to offer on an unforgettable 12-month journey. Basically, anyone who loves a great road trip!
Month 1-2: Eastern Coast Exploration
Month 1
- Driving time: 6 hours 43 minutes
- Driving distance: 573 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Explore Sydney
- Sydney to Newcastle (169 kilometres, 2 hours 13 minutes)
- Newcastle to Port Stephens (32.9 kilometres, 35 minutes)
- Port Stephens to Port Macquarie (218 kilometres, 2 hours 17 minutes)
- Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour (153 kilometres, 1 hour 38 minutes)
- Top stops: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, Royal National Park, Nobbys Beach, Stockton Sand Dunes, Nelson Bay, Forster-Tuncurry, and Port Macquarie Coastal Walk.
Discover the 18 best hidden NSW road trips to try in our ultimate guide.
Month 2:
- Driving time: 35 hours 27 minutes
- Driving distance: 2,473 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay (233 kilometres, 2 hours 25 minutes)
- Explore Byron Bay
- Byron Bay to Gold Coast (92.1 kilometres, 1 hour 13 minutes)
- Gold Coast to Brisbane (79.2 kilometres, 1 hour)
- Brisbane to Sunshine Coast (114 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes)
- Sunshine Coast to Noosa (46.3 kilometres, 39 minutes)
- Noosa to Fraser Island (275 kilometres, 6 hours 41 minutes)
- Fraser Island to Townsville (1,222 kilometres, 16 hours 51 minutes)
- Townsville to Port Douglas (412 kilometres, 5 hours 13 minutes)
- Top stops: Noosa National Park, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Cape Byron Lighthouse, the Big Banana, Surfers Paradise Beach, Hervey Bay, Lake McKenzie, and 75 Mile Beach.
Keep the drive going with our curated guide to 15 of the best road trip itineraries across Queensland.
Month 3-4: Northern Territory and Kimberley Region
Month 3:
- Driving time: 34 hours
- Driving distance: 3,175 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Port Douglas to Katherine (2,381 kilometres, 26 hours)
- Katherine to Kakadu National Park (152 kilometres, 1 hour 35 minutes)
- Kakadu National Park to Katherine Gorge (180 kilometres, 1 hour 55 minutes)
- Katherine Gorge to Litchfield National Park (356 kilometres, 3 hours 42 minutes)
- Litchfield National Park to Darwin (106 kilometres, 1 hour 14 minutes)
- Top stops: Four Mile Beach, Great Barrier Reef, Atherton Tablelands, Kuranda, and Crocosaurus Cove.
Venture off the beaten path and discover the ultimate Darwin to Broome road trip guide.
Month 4:
- Driving time: 27 hours
- Driving distance: 2,592 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Darwin to Alice Springs (1,497 kilometres, 15 hours 12 minutes)
- Alice Springs to Uluru (468 kilometres, 4 hours 49 minutes)
- Uluru to Kings Canyon (324 kilometres, 3 hours 26 minutes)
- Kings Canyon to MacDonnell Ranges (303 kilometres, 3 hours 27 minutes)
- Top stops: Mindil Beach Sunset Market, Darwin waterfront, Nitmiluk Gorge, Katherine Hot Springs, Mataranka thermal pool, Daly Waters Pub, Devils Marbles, Kings Canyon Rim Walk, and Garden of Eden.
Keep the drive going with our ultimate guide to the Darwin to Alice Springs road trip. Plus, discover our curated guide to the best day trips from Darwin.
Month 5-6: Red Centre and South Australia
Month 5:
- Driving time: 16 hours 8 minutes
- Driving distance: 1,540 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- MacDonnell Ranges to Coober Pedy (745 kilometres, 7 hours 45 minutes)
- Coober Pedy to Flinders Ranges (691 kilometres, 7 hours 7 minutes)
- Flinders Ranges to Wilpena Pound (105 kilometres, 1 hour 16 minutes)
- Top stops: Simpsons Gap, Ormiston Gorge, Alice Springs Desert Park, Anzac Hill, Erldunda Roadhouse, and Wilpena Pound Resort.
From hidden gems to iconic escapes, discover the best South Australian road trips to tackle during month five of your Big Lap.
Month 6:
- Driving time: 17 hours 29 minutes
- Driving distance: 1,415 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Wilpena Pound to Adelaide (441 kilometres, 5 hours 3 minutes)
- Adelaide to Fleurieu Peninsula (87.7 kilometres, 1 hour 19 minutes)
- Fleurieu Peninsula to Beachport (415 kilometres, 4 hours 39 minutes)
- Beachport to Mount Gambier ((84.5 kilometres, 1 hour 6 minutes)
- Mount Gambier to the Twelve Apostles (256 kilometres, 3 hours 8 minutes)
- The Twelve Apostles to Apollo Bay (85.4 kilometres, 1 hour 20 minutes)
- Apollo Bay to Lorne (46 kilometres, 53 minutes)
- Top stops: Beerenberg Farm, Apollo Bay Beach, Great Otway National Park, Granite Island, Horseshoe Bay, Cape Jervis, and Deep Creek Conservation Park.
Dive into our complete self-drive itinerary to the Great Ocean Road, the perfect road trip to tackle during month six of your Big Lap.
Month 7-8: Victoria and Tasmania
Month 7:
- Driving time: 13 hours 38 minutes
- Driving distance: 1,099 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Lorne to Melbourne (142 kilometres, 2 hours)
- Melbourne to the Grampians (257 kilometres, 3 hours 3 minutes)
- The Grampians to Wilsons Promontory (477 kilometres, 5 hours 39 minutes)
- Wilsons Promontory to Melbourne (223 kilometres, 2 hours 56 minutes)
- Top stops: Erskine Falls, Aireys Inlet, Split Point Lighthouse, Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, Queenscliff, Grampians National Park, and Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Discover 12 of the best road trips to explore across the great state of Victoria.
Month 8:
- Driving time: 13 hours 16 minutes
- Driving distance: 986 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Melbourne to Tasmania via ferry
- Hobart to Port Arthur (90.7 kilometres, 1 hour 19 minutes)
- Port Arthur to Freycinet National Park (200 kilometres, 2 hours 49 minutes)
- Freycinet National Park to Launceston (177 kilometres, 2 hours 14 minutes)
- Launceston to Cradle Mountain (150 kilometres, 2 hours 11 minutes)
- Cradle Mountain to Devonport (86.6 kilometres, 1 hour 27 minutes)
- Devonport to Hobart (281 kilometres, 3 hours 18 minutes)
- Tasmania to Adelaide via ferry
- Top stops: Salamanca Market, MONA, Mt Wellington, Richmond Bridge, Mt Field National Park, Lake St Clair, and the Dove Lake Circuit at Cradle Mountain.
Want to know how long it takes to drive around Tasmania? Find out in our handy guide to road-tripping across Tassie.
Month 9-10: South Australia and Western Australia
Month 9:
- Driving time: 37 hours
- Driving distance: 3,128 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Adelaide to Barossa Valley (71.9 kilometres, 1 hour 7 minutes)
- Barossa Valley to Coober Pedy (834 kilometres, 8 hours 52 minutes)
- Coober Pedy to Flinders Ranges (691 kilometres, 7 hours 7 minutes)
- Flinders Ranges to Eyre Peninsula and Lincoln National Park (479 kilometres, 5 hours 11 minutes)
- Explore Coffin Bay National Park
- Eyre Peninsula to Kangaroo Island (10 hours 31 minutes, 842 kilometres)
- Kangaroo Island to Adelaide (210 kilometres, 3 hours 51 minutes)
- Top stops: Flinders Chase National Park, Seal Bay Conservation Park, Glenelg Beach, Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre, Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, Seppeltsfield Winery, Clare Valley, Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, and Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.
Discover the best day trips you can tackle with your hire car from Adelaide.
Month 10:
- Driving time: 35 hours
- Driving distance: 3,273 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Adelaide to Ceduna (777 kilometres, 8 hours 20 minutes)
- Ceduna to Mundrabilla (581 kilometres, 6 hours 2 minutes)
- Mundrabilla to Esperance (824 kilometres, 8 hours 32 minutes)
- Esperance to Albany (481 kilometres, 5 hours 4 minutes)
- Albany to Margaret River (343 kilometres, 3 hours 54 minutes)
- Margaret River to Perth (267 kilometres, 3 hours 5 minutes)
- Top stops: Adelaide Botanic Garden, Port Augusta, Woomera Heritage Centre, Nullarbor Roadhouse, Eucla National Park, Cape Le Grand National Park, Pink Lake, and the Great Ocean Drive.
Dive into our definitive list of the best day trips from Perth.
Month 11-12: Western Australia and Return to Sydney
Month 11:
- Driving time: 28 hours
- Driving distance: 2,568 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Perth to Geraldton (419 kilometres, 4 hours 26 minutes)
- Geraldton to Carnarvon (478 kilometres, 5 hours)
- Carnarvon to Coral Bay (237 kilometres, 2 hours 29 minutes)
- Coral Bay to Ningaloo Reef (83.6 kilometres, 1 hour 21 minutes)
- Ningaloo Reef to Port Hedland (728 kilometres, 7 hours 56 minutes)
- Port Hedland to Eighty Mile Beach (246 kilometres, 2 hours 36 minutes)
- Eighty Mile Beach to Broome (376 kilometres, 3 hours 58 minutes)
- Top stops: Derby, Monkey Mia, Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Cottesloe Beach, Fremantle, The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, Jurien Bay, Kalbarri National Park, Turquoise Bay, and Cape Range National Park.
Month 12:
- Driving time: 57 hours
- Driving distance: 5,507 kilometres
- Itinerary:
- Broome to Alice Springs (2,736 kilometres, 28 hours)
- Alice Springs to Port Augusta (1,226 kilometres, 12 hours 17 minutes)
- Port Augusta to Sydney (1,546 kilometres, 16 hours 23 minutes)
- Top stops: Cable Beach, Exmouth, Kalbarri National Park, and Shark Bay.
6 month trip around Australia itinerary
If you’re looking to cover the big lap of Australia in just six months, follow the suggested itinerary below. Starting in Melbourne, you’ll travel to Tasmania to explore its rugged mountains and delightful food before making your way through South Australia, the Red Centre and Queensland.
Want to secure the perfect ride for your Australian road trip adventure? With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host. Find your drive on Turo.
Month 1: Victoria and Tasmania
- Begin in Melbourne, exploring the city’s vibrant laneways, cultural attractions, and food scene.
- Drive along the Great Ocean Road, marvelling at the Twelve Apostles and other natural wonders.
- Catch the ferry to Tasmania, exploring Hobart, Cradle Mountain, and the stunning east coast.
Month 2: South Australia and Red Centre
- Journey through South Australia, visiting the Barossa Valley for wine tasting and Adelaide for cultural experiences.
- Explore the Flinders Ranges before heading to the Red Centre to witness the majesty of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Month 3: Northern Territory and Top End
- Continue exploring the Northern Territory with stops in Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks.
- Experience the unique landscapes and Indigenous culture of the Top End, including Katherine Gorge and Darwin.
Month 4: Queensland Coast
- Cross into Queensland and explore the pristine beaches and tropical rainforests of the Sunshine Coast and Fraser Island.
- Snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef, then head north to Cairns and Port Douglas.
Month 5: Queensland Outback and Whitsundays
- Journey into the Queensland Outback, visiting towns like Longreach and experiencing the region’s rich history and heritage.
- Explore the Whitsunday Islands, sailing, snorkelling, and relaxing in this tropical paradise.
Month 6: East Coast and Brisbane
- Travel down the east coast, stopping in Townsville, Magnetic Island, and the Capricorn Coast.
- Arrive in Brisbane, where you can explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene, parks, and riverside dining.
- Conclude your journey having completed the Big Lap of Australia from Melbourne to Brisbane.
3 month trip around Australia itinerary
Only got three months to spare? With these suggested spots, you can cover Australia’s top scenic delights and attractions in just a short space of time.
Month 1: Northern Territory and Queensland
- Week 1: Begin in Darwin, exploring its markets, museums, and nearby national parks like Litchfield.
- Week 2: Venture to Kakadu National Park for wildlife spotting, Aboriginal rock art, and scenic landscapes.
- Week 3: Travel to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy snorkelling, diving, or a scenic flight over the reef.
- Week 4: Explore the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, experiencing the beauty of Australia’s tropical north.
Month 2: Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria
- Week 5: Drive south to Townsville and Magnetic Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches and explore the island’s wildlife.
- Week 6: Continue to the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, enjoying coastal walks, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
- Week 7: Journey to Byron Bay, famous for its laid-back vibe, surf culture, and stunning beaches.
- Week 8: Travel to Sydney, exploring its iconic landmarks, museums, and beautiful harbour.
Month 3: Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia
- Week 9: Drive along the Great Ocean Road, marvelling at the Twelve Apostles and scenic coastal vistas.
- Week 10: Cross into South Australia, visiting Adelaide for its food, wine, and cultural experiences.
- Week 11: Explore the Barossa Valley and Flinders Ranges, experiencing South Australia’s diverse landscapes and heritage.
- Week 12: Head west to Perth, stopping in Margaret River for wine tasting, surfing, and gourmet cuisine. Conclude your journey with a visit to Rottnest Island and its famous quokkas.
Final advice for your Australian road trip adventure of a lifetime
No matter whether you choose a three-month, six-month, or year-long Big Lap of Australia, this road trip is sure to deliver breathtaking views and unforgettable scenery. You’ll soak up the diverse landscapes of each region, the natural beauty of the country with its picturesque beaches and sprawling national parks, and see plenty of wildlife while doing so.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
