Road Trip VacationsAustralia

Self-drive holidays are a satisfying way to travel around Australia—travel as you please, plan your own itinerary and venture as far as your car will take you. Australia has a good network of well-maintained roads and highways and, for the more intrepid, quite a few dusty tracks to take you into the Outback. While flying might be quicker, there’s something utterly enchanting about an Australia road trip.

The Great Ocean Road: Nature’s Masterpiece

Surrounded by towering cliffs and sun-kissed beaches, the Great Ocean Road extends 243 kilometres along Australia’s southeastern coast and is one of the country’s most scenic road trips. As you drive, you’ll see the majestic Twelve Apostles, mighty limestone stacks that rise dramatically from the turquoise ocean. Also along the route is Great Otway National Park, famous for its waterfalls, rainforests and various coastal sites; set aside three to four days to explore its diverse attractions. 

Outback Odyssey: From Darwin to Alice Springs

For an edifying journey through Australia’s heart, where indigenous cultures have been present for millennia, start in Darwin in the country’s north and wind your way to Alice Springs, passing through such surreal landscapes as Kakadu National Park in the process. Along the way, meet current members of Australia’s indigenous communities, marvel at ancient rock art, or simply lose yourself in the vastness of the Outback. The trip is unlike any you’d experience elsewhere, combining natural wonders, history and living cultures in equal and abundant doses. 

Tasmania’s Circuit: Island in the Edge

Explore Tasmania’s wild beauty with a circular trip around the island. Stop by Wineglass Bay to experience one of the top beaches in the world, or visit Hobart for a taste of Tasmania’s burgeoning foodie scene.

Food & Wine Trails: Savouring Victoria

For those whose idea of the perfect Australia vacation involves culinary delights, the food and wine trails of Victoria are a perfect fit. In particular, the Yarra Valley is renowned for its world-class wineries and gourmet food. As you sample the local produce and exquisite wines, prepare to be swept away by vineyard vistas and rustic charm.

Practical Tips for Your Road Trip Adventure

• Have the proper documents: Tourists may drive in Australia on a valid driver's license for the same class of vehicle. Licenses must be carried when driving, in addition to a valid passport. If the driver's license is not in the English language, the visitor must carry a translation with the permit. An international driver's permit is not sufficient by itself and must be accompanied by a valid driver's permit.
• Bring paper maps: Mobile coverage can be patchy in the Outback and other remote areas of Australia, so don’t rely on online maps for navigation.
• Fuel up before you go: It can be a long way between gas stations and rest stops, so make sure you and your car both have plenty in the tank. Petrol in Australia comes in leaded and unleaded grades and is sold by the litre. Most stations will accept major international credit cards.
• Know your left from right: Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits vary by road type and location, with a general range of 40 to 60 km/h (25 to 37 mph) in cities and towns and 80 to 110 km/h (50 to 68 mph) on country roads and highways. Speed limits are rigorously enforced and strict drink-driving laws also apply. It is compulsory for drivers and passengers to wear seat belts at all times.
• Join the club: The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is affiliated with numerous motoring organizations around the world, entitling visiting members to free roadside emergency breakdown service, travel guides, route maps, accommodation and camping directories and touring information. For specific information and assistance, visit aaa.com.
• Embrace flexibility: While planning is essential, leaving room for spontaneous detours can lead to unexpected delights.
• Local insights: Chat with locals whenever possible—they often have the best travel tips and stories to share.

Driving tours with Goway

Whether it’s a self-drive car or a motorhome, Goway not only arranges the transportation but also reserves your accommodation so that you don’t have to worry about making overnight arrangements at the last minute. If you are unsure of the itinerary you want, we have a host of ready-made, day-by-day suggested driving tours to make sure you see the best of your destination—all carefully planned and researched by the team in our Sydney office. Naturally, all itineraries can be modified according to your needs and requirements. Unique to Goway on these planned itineraries is our Goway Co-Pilot Self Drive Kit, delivered to your first hotel. This kit includes a personalized itinerary, a Goway branded backpack, a selection of maps, directions and general information.