The Ultimate Guide to Van Life Routes in Australia
Australia is a van lifer's paradise, offering diverse landscapes from stunning coastlines to rugged outback terrain. With excellent infrastructure for travelers and countless free camping spots, it's no wonder so many choose to explore this vast country on wheels. This guide covers some of the best routes and destinations for your Australian van adventure.
East Coast: Sydney to Cairns
The classic East Coast route spans approximately 2,600 kilometers and can be comfortably explored in 3-4 weeks, though many travelers spend months enjoying this stretch.
Highlights:
- Byron Bay: Laid-back beach town with great surf spots and alternative lifestyle
- Gold Coast: Beautiful beaches and hinterland with rainforest walks
- Noosa: Upscale beach town with excellent national park coastal walks
- Fraser Island: World's largest sand island (4WD required or tours available)
- Whitsunday Islands: Sailing paradise with the iconic Whitehaven Beach
- Magnetic Island: Koala spotting and beautiful bays
- Daintree Rainforest: Ancient tropical rainforest meeting the Great Barrier Reef
Van Life Tips:
- Free camps are less common in populated areas, but apps like WikiCamps help find options
- Consider inland detours to places like Carnarvon Gorge for fewer crowds
- The best time to travel is during the dry season (May-October) as you head north
The Great Ocean Road
This iconic 243-kilometer stretch along Victoria's coast is one of the world's most scenic coastal drives.
Highlights:
- Twelve Apostles: Magnificent limestone stacks (go early or late to avoid crowds)
- Loch Ard Gorge: Beautiful beach surrounded by towering cliffs
- Great Otway National Park: Rainforest walks and koala spotting
- Bells Beach: Legendary surf spot
- Apollo Bay: Charming coastal town with great seafood
Van Life Tips:
- Allow at least 3-4 days to properly enjoy this route
- Free camping is limited, but there are excellent caravan parks and campgrounds
- Consider traveling midweek to avoid weekend crowds
- The inland return route through the Grampians offers a different landscape
The Red Centre
The heart of Australia offers a spiritual experience with its vast landscapes and cultural significance.
Highlights:
- Uluru (Ayers Rock): The iconic red monolith that changes color throughout the day
- Kata Tjuta (The Olgas): Impressive rock formations with great walking trails
- Kings Canyon: Spectacular rim walk with breathtaking views
- West MacDonnell Ranges: Ancient gorges, swimming holes, and hiking trails
- Alice Springs: Outback town with cultural attractions and services
Van Life Tips:
- Prepare for extreme temperature variations - days can be hot while nights get very cold
- Carry extra water and fuel
- The best time to visit is April-October when temperatures are milder
- Respect Indigenous cultural sites and obtain permits where required
Tasmania Circuit
Australia's island state offers pristine wilderness, historic sites, and gourmet food experiences in a compact area.
Highlights:
- Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: Alpine scenery and excellent hiking
- Freycinet Peninsula: Home to the perfect curve of Wineglass Bay
- Bay of Fires: Orange lichen-covered boulders against white sand beaches
- Port Arthur: Historic convict settlement
- Bruny Island: Wildlife, local produce, and beautiful landscapes
- Mount Field National Park: Waterfalls and ancient forests
Van Life Tips:
- Book the ferry (Spirit of Tasmania) well in advance, especially in summer
- Allow at least 2-3 weeks to circuit the island
- Be prepared for four seasons in one day - layer clothing and have rain gear
- Many national parks have excellent campgrounds
The Nullarbor Plain
For the adventurous van lifer, crossing the Nullarbor Plain between South Australia and Western Australia is a quintessential Australian road trip experience.
Highlights:
- Bunda Cliffs: Where the outback dramatically meets the Southern Ocean
- Nullarbor Links: The world's longest golf course spanning 1,365 kilometers
- Great Australian Bight: Whale watching (June-October)
- Eucla: Old telegraph station partially buried by sand dunes
- Cocklebiddy Cave: One of the world's largest underwater cave systems
Van Life Tips:
- The crossing is about 1,200 kilometers with limited services
- Carry extra fuel, water, and food
- Check your vehicle thoroughly before departing
- Roadhouses offer basic camping facilities
- Drive during daylight hours to avoid wildlife collisions
The Kimberley
One of Australia's last wilderness frontiers, the Kimberley in Western Australia offers dramatic gorges, pristine coastline, and ancient cultural sites.
Highlights:
- Gibb River Road: Legendary 660km 4WD route through the heart of the Kimberley
- Windjana Gorge: Ancient reef system with freshwater crocodiles
- Mitchell Falls: Multi-tiered waterfall in remote wilderness
- El Questro: Million-acre wilderness park with thermal springs
- Purnululu National Park: Home to the beehive-shaped Bungle Bungle Range
- Broome: Pearling town with the famous Cable Beach
Van Life Tips:
- A 4WD vehicle is essential for many attractions
- The best time to visit is during the dry season (May-October)
- Fuel and supplies are expensive - stock up in major towns
- Many campgrounds require advance booking
- Be crocodile aware near waterways
Essential Van Life Tips for Australia
Finding Camp Spots
- WikiCamps Australia: The essential app for finding campsites, with user reviews and filters
- National Parks: Often offer the best-located campgrounds (booking required in popular areas)
- Rest Areas: Many allow overnight stays (check signs)
- Showgrounds: Country towns often allow camping for a small fee
- Freedom Camping: Respect "No Camping" signs and local regulations
Water and Supplies
- Public water taps are available in most towns (apps like WikiCamps show locations)
- Carry water purification methods for remote areas
- Major supermarkets are in regional centers - plan accordingly
- Support local businesses in small towns where possible
Safety Considerations
- Share your itinerary when traveling in remote areas
- Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid
- Consider a satellite phone or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) for remote travel
- Be bushfire aware in summer months
- Check road conditions, especially after rain
Conclusion
Australia offers endless possibilities for van life adventures, from short coastal escapes to epic cross-country journeys. The freedom of having your home on wheels in such a vast and varied landscape is unmatched.
Remember that the journey is as important as the destinations. Allow time for unexpected discoveries, conversations with locals, and simply enjoying the magnificent landscapes that make Australia a van lifer's paradise.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
