Your next great road trip starts here!
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Imagine this: The sun's just peeking over the horizon, the kettle's whistling on your camper's stove, and your wheels are pointed towards adventure. No hotel check-out times, no airport queues - just you, your crew, and an open road calling your name.
A campervan road trip in Australia, New Zealand or the USA isn't just a holiday... it's freedom on four wheels. One day you're chasing waves along golden beaches, the next you're parked under a sky so starry you'll forget what a ceiling looks like. You decide where to go, how long to stay, and whether today's plan involves hiking, hammock naps, or hunting down the best pie in a country town.
This is your chance to swap the ordinary for the unforgettable - to slow down, explore more, and laugh louder. So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a few snacks) - because the journey ahead is going to be just as epic as the destinations you'll discover.
Let us show you how.
Top 6 reasons road trips are the best way to holiday
1. Ultimate flexibility - Forget rigid schedules and “check-in by stress. With a road trip, you set the pace - pull over for that perfect sunset, detour to a hidden waterfall, or stay an extra night at a spot you fall in love with. Your itinerary? Written in pencil.
2. More bang for your buck - No nightly hotel bills, no overpriced room service — just one comfy, all-in-one ride that’s both your transport and your accommodation. It’s budget-friendly and adventure-rich, leaving you with more to spend on experiences, not expenses.
3. Road Trips = Pure freedom - Whether you’re chasing beaches, mountains, or the world’s largest pineapple (yep, it’s a thing), a road trip lets you follow your curiosity without limits. It’s the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure.
4. Built-in reliability - Hit the road in a shiny, newer, well-maintained vehicle that’s ready for the kms ahead. No surprise breakdowns, no sketchy mechanics — just smooth cruising and peace of mind.
5. Built for Bonding - Whether it's family, friends, or your four-legged co-pilot, road trips turn travel time into quality time. Laugh over car karaoke, swap stories, and share those “remember when?” moments for years to come.
6. Insta-worthy moments on tap - Every twist in the road is a chance for a new memory — or a new post. Sunrise over the ocean, a surprise kangaroo encounter, or that perfectly burnt marshmallow at camp... your camera roll will thank you.
Picking the right van
Camp Car | Sleeps 2
Inexpensive City Hopping
Small, nimble, and budget-friendly - perfect for zipping between cities or exploring urban gems without worrying about tricky parking spots, while still enjoying a compact kitchen for quick meals.
Perfect for: City breaks, short getaways, couples’ escapes.
Campervan (Basic) | Sleeps 2-4
Beachside & Highway Cruising
All the essentials - kitchen, comfy interior bed, with the freedom to wake up right by the beach.
Perfect for: Ideal for scenic coastal drives and sunny beach escapes. Comfortable, practical, and ready for lazy seaside mornings.
Campervan (Toilet + Shower) | Sleeps 2-4
Inexpensive City Hopping
All the essentials — kitchen, comfy interior bed, with the freedom to wake up right by the beach. Enjoy your own private bathroom and a touch of luxury while still keeping things compact and road-trip-friendly.
Perfect for: Beachside camping, longer coastal adventures, off-grid stays that let you escape!
Motorhome | Sleeps 2-6
Big Adventures & Long Distances
Spacious living with all the essentials — kitchen, toilet, and shower, comfy interior bed with the freedom to wake up right by the beach.
Perfect for: Extended road trips, freedom camping, and family holidays, extra room for bad weather.
4WD Bush Camper | Sleeps 2-4
Rugged Off-Road Exploration
Rugged and ready for adventure with off-road capability and the essentials to go deep into the outback. Built for dirt tracks, national park trails, and wild, off-the-map spots. When the adventure starts where the sealed road ends, this is your go-to.
Perfect for: Remote tracks, outback exploration, national park camping.
Larry's Travel Tip: “If you’re stuck choosing, think about where you’ll spend most of your time - city streets, coastal roads, remote bush, or a bit of everything. The right fit makes all the difference!” Or ask us 🙂
Booking tips
Book Early…Like, Yesterday
Campervans here are like hot pies at a footy match - they disappear fast, especially in peak season. The earlier you book, the better your choice and the better your price.
Size Matters (But Bigger Isn’t Always Better)
Be honest about how much space you actually need. Sure, that 6-berth looks like a rolling palace, but if it’s just you and your mate, a smaller van might be cheaper, easier to park, and just as comfy.
Read the Fine Print (Yes, All of It)
Check what’s included - insurance, unlimited kilometres, bedding, kitchen gear - and what’s not. You don’t want to arrive and discover your “fully equipped” camper doesn’t even have a kettle.
One-Way or Round Trip?
Planning to drop off in a different city? Make sure you check relocation fees. Sometimes they’re worth it for the extra adventure… other times they’ll eat into your fish-and-chips budget.
Don’t Skimp on Insurance
Even if you’re a driving legend, US Highways, Aussie outback roads and Kiwi alpine passes can be tricky. The right insurance means you can focus on the views, not the “uh-oh” moments.
Pack Smart, Pack Light
Your camper has storage, but it’s not Mary Poppins’ handbag. Bring the essentials, leave the “just in case” clutter at home, and save space for souvenirs (and snacks).
Ask About the Extras
Camp Chairs/Table Heaters, Fans Pets - sometimes the extras make all the difference.
Who are you Booking with?
Many International companies advertise in Australia/New Zealand and the USA, some based in Europe. At Campervan Rental Guide we offer local support and 20 years Camper experience!
Budget your adventure
Smart planning means more freedom on the road. When you know what costs to expect and how much to set aside, you can relax and enjoy the adventure instead of stressing about surprise expenses. A clear budget doesn’t just save you money—it keeps your trip running smoothly and makes sure the only surprises are the good kind.
Campervan rental
- Daily rental rate – varies by season, location, vehicle type, and size.
- Insurance options – basic cover is usually included, but consider upgrades to reduce excess liability and bond.
- One-way fees – if dropping off in a different location.
- Extras – bedding kits, camping gear, GPS, Wi-Fi, child seats, etc.
Fuel
- Keep in mind that campervans are heavier and less fuel-efficient than cars.
- Budget based on expected kilometres and current fuel prices.
- Use local fuel apps to locate the best priced stations.
Camping & overnight stays
- Holiday Parks – Powered/unpowered sites, often with showers, kitchens, and laundry.
- Free camping – Only legal in some regions and usually requires a self-contained van.
- National Parks – Entry or overnight permits are often required as well as a self-contained van.
Travel essentials
- Food & Groceries – Stocking up at supermarkets is cheaper than eating out daily. Factor in occasional dining out as part of the experience.
- Third Party Travel Insurance – Cover for trip cancellations, health emergencies, etc.
- Miscellaneous supplies – Such as beach towels and bug spray.
Larry's Travel Tip: Always allow a little "buffer fund" for unexpected costs - or a wow-moment experience you don't want to miss.
Insurance tips
- Understand what's included. Basic cover usually comes with the daily rate but the excess (your liability) can be high.
- Consider reducing the excess. Excess-reduction packages can lower out-of-pocket risk - weigh daily cost vs. peace of mind.
- Other insurance. Some policies say they include rental excess cover, but many exclude campers/motorhomes or modified vehicles - read carefully.
Check what's not covered (common exclusions)
- Windscreens/tyres; underbody/roof; damage on unsealed or prohibited roads; water damage (floods, beaches, creeks); interior damage/negligence (spills, burns, lost keys).
Always read the full terms so you know your liability.
Driving restrictions
Stick to sealed roads unless in a 4WD, obey any regional restrictions (night driving, remote areas, ferries), and note that breaking conditions can void cover.
Document everything
At pick-up and drop-off, take photos/video of the vehicle (inside and out) and record any existing marks on the condition report.
Understanding your insurance options (Bond & Excess)
Option 1 - Leave a bond/excess.
A hold is placed on your card (often A$4,000-7,500). If nothing happens, it's released after return - that's the bond.
Option 2 - Pay daily to reduce the bond.
A per-day fee drops your liability (sometimes close to zero). Think of it as buying peace of mind.
Option 3 - Take a value pack.
Bundles a reduced excess with handy extras (e.g., camping chairs/table, GPS, child seats). If you're renting several add-ons anyway, a pack can be cheaper overall.
Larry's Tip: Excess-reduction packages make the stress float away.
What's included (typically)
- Bedding & towels
- Kitchenware: pots, pans, plates, cutlery (and sometimes a bottle opener - priorities!)
- Gas bottle (usually filled for your first camp)
Extras you can rent: Toilet chemicals, camping chairs/table, portable fan.
Travel Tip: Pre-trip prep goes a long way - pack lighter, save space, and spend more time enjoying the view.
What to bring (the essentials)
- Soft bags
- Sun protection: hat, sunnies, sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Layered clothing for changing weather
- USB/12V adapters + a power bank
- Headlamp/torch
- Refillable water bottles
- Useful apps: CamperMate, WikiCamps, and local fuel-price or offline-maps apps
Safety first
Driver's licence rules
- Bring your current, full licence (no learners/provisional).
- All drivers must be present at pick-up to be added to the booking.
- Licence must be valid for the entire rental period.
- Non-English licences may require an accredited translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Pro tip: An IDP is often the easiest option and helpful for future travels too.
Safety rules (non-negotiables)
- Seatbelts for everyone, front and back.
- Never drive under the influence or when overtired.
- Keep to local road rules and conditions; slow down on unfamiliar roads.
Travel Tip: If you'll swap drivers, make sure every driver is registered and covered by insurance.
Advice for a safe & happy road trip
- Break every 2 hours. Great excuse for a coffee and a lookout photo.
- Avoid driving at night/dawn/dusk. Wildlife loves these hours.
- Watch for animals. Slow down if you see roadside signs.
- Camping etiquette. Only stop where allowed; check signs and local rules.
- Caravan & holiday parks. Hot showers, power, and great amenities for kids.
- Leave No Trace. Pack out all rubbish; leave campsites cleaner than you found them.
Pro tip: A friendly wave to fellow campervanners is practically mandatory - it's road-trip culture.
Road-tested tips to save money & hassle
- Food savings that add up. Supermarket shops + campsite cooking = big wins.
- Do a vehicle check. Photos/video of every scratch/dent (inside and out) before you roll.
- Plan your route. Avoid backtracking, dodge long hauls into full camps at 7 pm, and detour for scenic gems.
Route planning: popular campervan itineraries
- AU East Coast Epic (Sydney to Cairns, ~2,600 km, 10-14 days)
Endless beaches, rainforests, reef towns, and months of postcard views. - AU Great Ocean Road (VIC, 250-350 km, 3-5 days)
Clifftops, surf beaches, and the Twelve Apostles - koala-spotting likely. - AU Red Centre Run (Alice Springs to Uluru, ~460 km)
Short in distance, huge in impact - big skies and fiery sunsets. - NZ South Island (Christchurch to Queenstown, ~480 km)
Take it slow: Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and dramatic Aoraki/Mt Cook views. - USA Cross-Country (San Diego to Washington, ~1,700 miles)
Jaw-dropping deserts, canyon country, and great RV-friendly campgrounds.
Pre-departure checklist
- Licence ready to go (and any required translations/IDP)
- Excess & bond sorted; enough credit-card limit available
- Vehicle condition checked & recorded (photos/video, inside & out)
- Packing complete (and practical) - layers, sun protection, repellent
- Route, fuel stops & campsites planned (allow bonus time for detours)
- Apps & maps ready (CamperMate/WikiCamps/offline maps)
- Rest day before departure to start fresh and alert
Why book through Campervan Rental Guide?
- 100% locally owned & operated - support services based locally
- Full transparency - confident, no-surprises bookings
- Easy to book
- Here & happy to help - personal contact for your entire trip (and after)
- Massive savings
- No extra fees
- Expert service - 20+ years of industry experience
