Travelling around Australia in a caravan is a dream for many — and for good reason. The freedom to explore remote beaches, outback towns, and everything in between is unmatched. But before you hit the road, it’s worth asking the big question: how much does it actually cost to travel around Australia in a caravan?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on how fast you travel, where you stay, what kind of van you’re towing, and how self-sufficient you want to be. Whether you’re planning the Big Lap or a slow, scenic shuffle up the east coast, having a clear idea of your likely expenses can help you budget realistically and travel smarter. Many caravans in Heatherbrae are designed for long-haul comfort and off-grid capability, which can also influence how much you spend along the way.
Major Costs to Expect on the Road
There are five major cost categories to plan for when travelling around Australia in a caravan:
- Fuel
- Caravan parks and campsites
- Food and groceries
- Maintenance and repairs
- Insurance and registrations
Each of these can vary dramatically depending on your setup and travel style. Some couples manage a lap for under $1,000 per week. Others spend $1,500–$2,000+ with more frequent stays in caravan parks, longer driving distances, or extra activities.
Setting a budget is important — but so is staying flexible. Costs can fluctuate with fuel prices, mechanical issues, or last-minute detours that turn into highlights of the trip.
Fuel: The Biggest Variable
Fuel is often your largest recurring expense on the road. The total cost will depend on how far you drive, how often you move, and what kind of fuel economy your towing vehicle gets.
A rough estimate for a diesel 4WD towing a mid-sized van is 15–20L per 100km. If you’re travelling 25,000–30,000km around the country, expect to spend between $5,000 and $9,000 on fuel — more if you’re towing a heavier van or taking remote inland routes where fuel is pricier.
You can reduce fuel costs by slowing down, reducing weight, and planning shorter travel legs between stops. Apps like FuelMap or PetrolSpy help you track prices and plan refuels.
Caravan Parks vs Free Camping
Where you choose to stay will have a big impact on your budget. Caravan parks typically cost $30–$60 per night, depending on location and facilities. Premium parks in tourist hotspots can run up to $80+ per night during peak seasons.
If you alternate between paid parks and free camping, you can significantly reduce weekly costs. Free or low-cost camps are widely available through apps like WikiCamps and Campendium, especially in regional areas.
A typical mix of free camping and caravan parks might average $200–$400 per week. For fully park-based travellers, expect $400–$700+ weekly, especially if you’re staying near the coast or in popular national parks.
Food and Living Expenses
Food costs while travelling aren’t drastically different to life at home — it just depends on how you shop and eat. Cooking in your caravan will always be cheaper than eating out. Regional supermarkets can be more expensive, but stocking up in larger towns helps reduce the spend.
A realistic grocery budget for two people ranges from $150 to $250 per week. Add another $50–$100 if you eat out occasionally or grab coffees and snacks along the way.
Things like laundry, gas bottle refills, mobile data, and toiletries can add another $30–$50 per week. If you’re off-grid and running solar, your power costs will be minimal.
Setup Costs Before You Leave
Your upfront investment plays a role in how much you spend on the road. If you already own a caravan and tow vehicle, you’re ahead. But if you’re just getting started, you’ll need to factor in:
- Caravan purchase: $30,000 to $100,000+ depending on age, features, and condition
- Tow vehicle: $20,000 to $80,000+ depending on capacity and fit-out
- Upgrades and gear: solar, grey water tanks, lithium batteries, towing mirrors, brake controller, satellite comms — easily another $5,000–$15,000 if starting from scratch
While this doesn’t affect your week-to-week budget, it does impact your break-even point and how long you’ll need to travel to justify the setup costs.
Realistic Weekly Budget Breakdown
For most couples travelling full-time, here’s a rough average of what to expect per week:
- Fuel: $250–$400
- Caravan parks/free camps: $200–$500
- Groceries and essentials: $200–$300
- Extras (eating out, entry fees, mobile data, etc.): $50–$150
- Maintenance and incidentals: $50–$100
Total: $750 to $1,450 per week depending on your style, location, and rig
Travelling slower, staying longer in one place, and free camping more often can all help bring that figure down — sometimes dramatically.
FAQs
Can you travel around Australia in a caravan on a budget?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to travel around Australia in a caravan on a budget — but it requires planning and discipline. The biggest savings come from free camping, reducing your fuel usage by travelling slowly, and cooking your own meals. Many travellers stick to a weekly budget under $1,000 by avoiding peak tourist areas, using fuel apps to find cheaper stations, and staying longer at each stop. Apps like WikiCamps help you find free or donation-based camps, while solar setups let you stay off-grid without relying on powered sites. It’s not about cutting every corner — just making smarter choices based on what you value most.
How long does it take to do the Big Lap of Australia?
The “Big Lap” — a full loop around mainland Australia — typically covers 25,000 to 30,000 kilometres depending on the route. Some people rush it in three months, but most take 6 to 12 months or more to do it justice. A slower lap allows for better budgeting, less stress, and more time to explore off-the-beaten-path places. Many long-term travellers don’t even follow a strict lap route — they zigzag between regions and stay longer in places they love. If you’re budgeting for fuel and expenses, a slower pace usually equals lower weekly costs and more meaningful experiences.
Is it cheaper to live in a caravan while travelling than renting a house?
For many people, yes — especially if you already own your setup. Living on the road can be significantly cheaper than renting, particularly in major cities or high-demand areas. With no rent or mortgage, your main costs are fuel, food, and camp fees — all of which can be adjusted based on your travel pace and style. However, if you’re constantly staying in high-end parks or driving long distances every week, your costs can creep up quickly. The key to saving is flexibility: free camp where you can, slow down your travel, and cook most of your meals. For those seeking a minimalist lifestyle or escaping high rent, full-time travel can be surprisingly affordable.
Do I need to book caravan parks in advance?
It depends on the time of year and where you’re travelling. In off-peak seasons or regional areas, you can usually turn up without a booking. But during school holidays, long weekends, or in popular tourist destinations like coastal Queensland or the Top End, parks can book out weeks in advance. If you have a rough itinerary, it’s worth booking ahead for busy periods — especially if you want powered sites or access to specific amenities. Free and low-cost camps can also fill up early in the day, so arriving before mid-afternoon gives you a better chance of snagging a spot. Apps like WikiCamps and park websites often include real-time availability or booking options.
What hidden costs should I budget for when travelling Australia in a caravan?
Even with a well-planned budget, there are always surprise expenses. These might include mechanical repairs, tyre replacements, medical costs, last-minute accommodation if your van needs work, or shipping parts to remote locations. Some travellers forget to budget for things like national park entry fees, attraction tickets, or data top-ups when internet reception is patchy. You might also find yourself spending more in tourist towns where food and fuel are expensive. It’s wise to keep an emergency buffer — ideally a few thousand dollars — for those unexpected situations that pop up when you least expect them. Being financially prepared means you can enjoy the journey without added stress.
Planning your trip with realistic costs in mind
Travelling Australia in a caravan is as affordable or as luxurious as you make it. By understanding the key costs and building a budget that matches your travel style, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more enjoyable journey that goes the distance.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.