Travel around Australia

đźš— Road Travel Across Australia

Exploring Australia by road is one of the best ways to see the country’s vast landscapes, hidden gems, and iconic sights. Whether you prefer driving yourself, joining a guided tour, or using public transport, there are options for every style of traveller. Planning ahead is important, as distances can be huge and services in remote areas limited.

đź›» Types of Transport for Road Travel

Rental Cars and Campervans

  • Renting a car or campervan gives you full freedom to explore at your own pace. Campervans also double as accommodation, which is perfect for budget travellers.

  • Popular rental companies include Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Apollo, and Britz.

Four Wheel Drive Vehicles

  • For trips through the Outback or rougher terrain, a four wheel drive is essential. Many companies offer 4WD rental with equipment and safety guidance.

  • Examples include Britz 4WD, Mighty Campers, and local 4WD hire operators in Alice Springs or Cairns.

Guided Bus Tours

  • If you prefer a stress free journey, guided bus tours cover major routes and attractions with accommodation and meals included.

  • Companies such as Greyhound Australia, AAT Kings, and Oz Experience run multi day and long distance tours.

Coach Services and Public Buses

  • Long distance coaches connect major cities and towns for travellers on a budget.

  • Greyhound Australia offers extensive routes across the east coast, south and central Australia, while Premier Motor Service covers Sydney, Melbourne, and regional destinations.

Ride Sharing and Car Pooling

  • Services like Couchsurfing rides or local Facebook travel groups can be a cheaper way to cover long distances while meeting other backpackers.

🧠 Tips for Road Travel Across Australia

  • Plan your route carefully and check distances and fuel availability

  • Carry extra water, food, and emergency supplies, especially in remote areas

  • Book vehicles and tours in advance during peak travel seasons

  • Take regular breaks on long drives and avoid driving at night in rural areas

  • Follow local road rules and respect wildlife on the roads

Road travel allows backpackers to experience Australia’s diversity from tropical rainforests to the red Outback, the coastal beaches to the snow capped mountains. Whether renting a vehicle, joining a tour, or using coach services, the journey by road is a chance to create a flexible and unforgettable adventure.

greyhound australia

🛣️ Iconic Routes Across Australia

Australia is a country made for road trips. From stunning coastlines to vast deserts, its iconic routes showcase diverse landscapes, unique towns, and unforgettable experiences. Each route has options for self drive, guided tours, or coach travel, making them accessible to every type of traveller.

1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Overview:
One of the most famous coastal drives in the world, stretching from Torquay to Allansford. Famous for dramatic cliffs, beaches, and the Twelve Apostles rock formations.

Transport Options:

  • Rental car or campervan from Melbourne

  • Guided bus tours from Melbourne

  • Bicycle tours for the adventurous

Places to Stay and Visit:

  • Torquay – Surfing and beach town

  • Lorne – Coastal village with cafes and waterfalls nearby

  • Apollo Bay – Gateway to the Great Otway National Park

  • Port Campbell – Close to the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

2. The Stuart Highway, Northern Territory to South Australia

Overview:
A legendary Outback route connecting Darwin to Adelaide, passing deserts, cattle stations, and iconic landmarks.

Transport Options:

  • Rental four wheel drive or campervan

  • Long distance coach with Greyhound Australia

  • Guided Outback tours

Places to Stay and Visit:

  • Alice Springs – Cultural heart of the Red Centre

  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta – Sacred Aboriginal sites

  • Coober Pedy – Underground town famous for opal mining

  • Roadside roadhouses along the route provide food and accommodation

3. The Pacific Coast, New South Wales and Queensland

Overview:
Runs from Sydney to Cairns, taking in beaches, islands, and rainforests. Ideal for backpackers looking for a mix of city, beach, and nature.

Transport Options:

  • Rental car or campervan

  • Coach services like Greyhound Australia or Premier Motor Service

  • Guided tours along the east coast

Places to Stay and Visit:

  • Byron Bay – Surfing, nightlife, and alternative culture

  • Gold Coast – Beaches and theme parks

  • Airlie Beach – Gateway to the Whitsundays

  • Cairns – Access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest

4. The Red Centre Way, Northern Territory

Overview:
A circular route through central Australia covering Alice Springs, Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and Kings Canyon.

Transport Options:

  • Self drive in a four wheel drive or campervan

  • Guided multi day tours from Alice Springs

  • Limited coach services for key stops

Places to Stay and Visit:

  • Alice Springs – Base for supplies and cultural experiences

  • Kings Canyon – Scenic rim walks and gorges

  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta – Sunrise and sunset viewing

  • Campgrounds and small lodges are the main accommodation options

5. The Savannah Way, Queensland to Northern Territory

Overview:
Spanning from Cairns to Broome, this route takes travellers through tropical savannahs, national parks, and remote outback towns.

Transport Options:

  • Four wheel drive or campervan for remote sections

  • Guided tours with stops at national parks and Aboriginal communities

Places to Stay and Visit:

  • Undara Volcanic National Park – Lava tube tours

  • Atherton Tablelands – Waterfalls and rainforests

  • Katherine – Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park

  • Broome – Beaches, pearls, and remote Outback charm

🧠 Tips for Travelling Iconic Routes

  • Book accommodation in advance during peak seasons

  • Carry extra water, food, and fuel for remote sections

  • Mix self drive with tours for sections where public transport is limited

  • Plan your stops for sightseeing, local food, and cultural experiences

  • Respect the environment and Aboriginal land along the routes

These iconic routes offer a combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making them perfect for backpackers exploring Australia. Each route can be tailored for short trips, multi day adventures, or longer journeys to experience the country at your own pace

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