A Beginner’s Guide to Planning a Campervan Holiday
Thinking about booking a campervan hire for an Australian road trip? We encourage you to go for it! A campervan road trip offers the ultimate in comfort and flexibility as you travel. There’s no better way to explore Australia’s picturesque landscapes and diverse destinations.
If you’re new to the exciting world of campervan travel, you may feel a little unsure of how to get started with planning and preparation. Here at Mighty, we like to make campervan travel as fun and easy as possible. So, we’ve put together this helpful guide for beginners. From choosing the best campervan to creating an awesome itinerary, we’ve got it covered. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
But first, why choose a campervan holiday?
First and foremost, a campervan holiday offers you unparalleled flexibility and freedom. You can travel Australia at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that you might otherwise miss. Whether you’re keen to explore beaches and lakes or hiking trails and forests, you’ve got the choice of where to go and what to do.
Best of all, with your accommodation and vehicle all in one, a campervan road trip is a cost-effective way to enjoy a well-deserved holiday. With a kitchen on board, you can cook your own meals and save on eating out. Plus, there are loads of great Australian tourist attractions and activities to enjoy when you’re travelling by campervan that don’t cost a cent!
How to plan your campervan adventure
Now that you're ready to get started on your campervan adventure, let's dive into some essential tips on how to plan the road trip of a lifetime.
Choose the right campervan
Before you book your campsites or start packing, the first step is to book in the best campervan rental for your adventure. Whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or as a family, you’ll want a campervan that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Mighty offer a range of campers designed for all types of travellers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Consider whether you’ll want an onboard kitchen and bathroom. For example, if you're travelling as a couple and planning to stay in campgrounds, you may decide you don’t need a shower and toilet in your camper. In that case, our 2-berth Highball could be the perfect fit. For those seeking all the amenities and space for larger families, our 6-berth Big Six is a great option with three spacious double beds and top-of-the-line features
When choosing your campervan, consider factors such as storage space for your gear, extras like a TV or DVD player, and whether your furry friend will be joining you on the trip (good news, Mighty campervans are pet-friendly!).
Select your destinations
From rugged outback expanses to stunning coastal vistas, Australia is a treasure trove of diverse destinations and exciting attractions. With so much to see and do, can be hard to know where to start! To help make the most of your campervan holiday, it's worth taking some time to research the best places to visit in Australia. Don’t forget to consider the weather conditions in your destination, as Australia experiences different climates across its regions. Take note of seasonal attractions and local events happening during your visit, as they can add a unique touch to your experience.
Create a detailed itinerary
Putting together a detailed road trip planner can make all the difference to your campervan trip. Start by mapping out your daily route, taking into account the distance you'll be driving each day. This will help you feel organised and ensure a smooth journey. Remember to allocate time for sightseeing, activities, and, most importantly, relaxation. After all, a campervan holiday is meant to be enjoyed! While having a plan is essential, it's also important to stay flexible. Leave room for unexpected discoveries and spontaneous adventures along the way. You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon!
To make your planning even easier, we recommend downloading the thl Roadtrip app. It's a handy, easy-to-use tool that provides helpful information, interactive maps, and insider tips to help you make the most of your campervan experience.
Write a packing list
When you’re off on the road trip of a lifetime, it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement and rush through your packing. We suggest writing a packing checklist and packing your gear in advance. This gives you plenty of time to think of everything needed. It also means you can think carefully about things you don’t need. After all, you don't want to be weighed down with excess gear that takes up precious space but serves no purpose during your trip.
Once you’ve booked your campervan rental, the next important step is to book in some campsites. The last thing you want is to be driving around aimlessly, hoping to stumble upon a vacant spot during peak seasons. By booking your campsites in advance, you can rest easy knowing you have a cosy spot waiting for you at the end of the day.
Take some time to research different campsites to find the ones that suit your needs. Look into the facilities they offer, such as mains power, showers, and laundry facilities. Consider their proximity to the attractions you want to explore, so you can minimise travel time and maximise your adventures.
While it's great to camp in established sites with all the amenities, don't forget to mix it up with some free camping options as well. Australia is dotted with beautiful, designated sites that have been set aside for free camping. Locations vary from beaches to the outback and even some national parks so you have heaps of variation in the spots you can choose from.
Stay safe
To ensure a relaxed and worry-free road trip, there are a few key safety steps to follow. First and foremost, take the time to familiarise yourself with the safety features and operating instructions of your campervan. Understanding how everything works will give you peace of mind throughout your travels. You’ll get a thorough handover when you pick up your camper from your chosen Mighty branch. But don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as you need to. You’ll also find some handy guides within the thl Roadtrip app.
If you’re heading off on a long road trip, make it a habit to regularly check important aspects of your campervan’s maintenance. Keep an eye on the tyre pressure, fluid levels, and engine conditions. By doing so, you can address any potential issues before they become major problems.
Equally important is being prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise on the road. Keep emergency contact numbers, including Mighty’s Road Care Team contact number (1300 580 805) on hand in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies that require immediate assistance.
Follow campervan etiquette
One of the most important principles of campervan etiquette is to respect the environment by leaving no trace of your visit. Pack out what you pack in, dispose of waste properly, and avoid damaging or disturbing the natural surroundings. It’s also important to conserve resources as you travel. Be mindful of your water and energy usage.
It's equally important to adhere to campground rules and regulations. Take note of quiet hours, parking restrictions, and any specific guidelines in place. By doing so, you'll contribute to a harmonious atmosphere and show consideration for other campers who are also seeking a peaceful and enjoyable stay.
Stock up on groceries and snacks
If you’re travelling to remote areas, you may find that grocery prices are higher than in bigger towns and cities. You may also find that some items are not available, so stocking up on groceries, drinks, toiletries, and snack foods in advance is always a good idea. If you've chosen a Mighty motorhome equipped with a kitchen, make the most of the opportunity to prepare your own meals. This not only helps you save money on dining out but also allows you to enjoy your favourite home-cooked dishes.
Relish the journey
While it's important to be prepared and have a chosen route in mind, remember that the beauty of campervan travel lies in the freedom to explore. Avoid the temptation of a tight timetable that can take the fun out of your experience. Allow yourself the pleasure of discovering hidden gems, taking spontaneous detours, and immersing yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Campervan travel is all about savouring every minute of your adventure, creating unforgettable memories, and experiencing the thrill of the unknown!
Inspired to go on an Australian adventure?
Inspired to kick off your unforgettable Australian adventure? Don't wait any longer! Book your Mighty campervan online today and get ready to hit the road. With 10 convenient locations throughout Australia, you'll be on your way to an incredible journey in no time. To help you make the most of your trip, check out some of our recommended driving routes.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning, start dreaming, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Your Australian adventure begins here!
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