How to Choose the Best Campervan for you Australian Adventure
Finding your home on the road
So, you’re planning an Australian campervan trip. Good for you! That’s the dream, right? There’s nothing quite like the freedom of having your bed, kitchen, and entire adventure mobile right there with you.
It’s pure freedom.
However, considering all the options for campervans, it can be confusing. I totally get it because after all, who wants to spend a holiday crammed in a small box? Or, even worse, spend a holiday in a massive campervan that is just too big for your needs.
I can see why you may get overwhelmed by the options. So, let’s take the time to get to know what you may need, and I will show you the most important things to help you find a van that will not only take you where you want to go, but will also be your own home on wheels.
The passenger headcount
This is the most important bit. Before you even look at a vehicle, look at your travel crew. Here's something to consider:
- Just you and a partner? A cosy 2-berth campervan is your golden ticket. You get all the essentials without the extra size. This makes it easy for you to park and drive, so you can take a detour whenever you want.
- How about bringing the kids or a few mates along? Well, you’ll want to look at a 3-berth or a 4-berth model. Believe me, that extra room makes all the difference. A space to actually move around without tripping over your own luggage will save you from a lot of arguments after a long day on the road.
- Now, for a bigger group, a 5-berth or 6-berth motorhome can work. But here’s a little tip. Check the layout photos carefully. You have to make sure there's a spot for everyone to sit and relax, because you'll definitely have a rainy day or two. And if it's a long trip, trust me, a little more room is worth it. You'll be so happy you chose it.
Where in Australia do you want to go?
Australia is huge, and the places you want to see will determine the best van for you. This is probably your most important decision.
- A regular 2WD campervan will be great if you are going to the popular coastal routes. Think of the Great Ocean Road or the trip up from Sydney to Cairns. The roads are well maintained that you can confidently drive anything from a small 2-berth to a large 6-berth. Road conditions are not a problem!
- But maybe you're looking for a real adventure. If the red dust of the Outback is calling your name, or you're dreaming of going to the wild tracks of the Kimberley... well, that's a whole different kind of trip. This is where a proper 4WD campervan comes in. They are built higher off the ground and are seriously tough, designed to confidently handle loose gravel, deep sand, and roads that are barely there.
Let’s talk about the comfort and budget
Campervans cover every possible style and budget, starting with simple, affordable setups and going all the way to top of the line models that offer a true luxury experience on the road.
- Sometimes, a simple van with a bed and a camp stove option is often the most enjoyable. It’s affordable, and it really pushes you outdoors.
- That said, most of us like a few more comforts. The mid-range vans are where you’ll find that sweet spot. They often have a more powerful engine for highways, a proper fridge, and storage that actually makes sense. It's those little things that make travelling so much more comfortable.
- And then there’s the top shelf. If your dream involves travelling with all the comforts of home, then luxury campervan hire is for you. We’re talking about spacious interiors, a proper bathroom, and a killer sound system. It’s less 'camping' and more 'rolling five-star hotel'.
“ ...if a cold and dark walk to the toilet at 3 am is not your ideal situation, then you will want to find a van with its own bathroom. ”
A closer look at your living space
Okay, you’ve got the size and type of vehicles sorted. Now, picture your daily life inside this mobile home. The layout is what you’ll live with every single day.
- How does the bed work? Is it a fixed double, or do you have to convert the table every single night? If you’re not a morning person, that can get old fast.
- Where’s the kitchen? An inside one is a lifesaver if the rain is pouring, or the flies are out, and the outdoor kitchen, on the other hand, helps keep your sleeping area clean and smell free. It's a personal call, but it's something you'll want to consider.
- And the bathroom question. This is important to note. Many smaller vans skip the built-in bathroom to save space, which means you'll be using the shared campground amenities. So, if a cold and dark walk to the toilet at 3 am is not your ideal situation, then you will want to find a van with its own bathroom. Just remember, it means you’ll have to manage the water tanks.
- Finally, open all the cupboards in your mind. Is there a place for your big suitcase? Your food supplies? Your hiking boots? Good storage is the secret to a tidy, stress-free van. It's a simple thing, but it makes all the difference on a long trip.
The final check of the important details
Almost there. Before you hit 'book', let’s quickly talk about the boring but essential stuff of booking a motorhome.
Got a standard driver’s licence from home? You’re probably all set for most vans. If it’s not in English, you’ll need an international driving permit too. Always double check with the rental company, just to be safe.
Now, the insurance. I know, it’s tedious. But please, read it. Understand what you’re covered for and what that excess fee is. Many companies let you reduce it for a small daily cost, which can give you real peace of mind.
Finally, when the day comes to pick up your campervan rental, don't rush through the handover. Ask the agent to show you how everything works. The pop-top, the fridge, the switches. Do a proper walk around and point out every tiny scratch. It’ll save you from any headaches later on.
And that’s it! Choosing your campervan with Motorhome Republic is the start of your adventure. Take a breath, think about your crew and your route, and you’ll find the perfect set of wheels. Your home on the Australian road is out there waiting for you. Now go find it!
