More Australians are asking the question: can you actually live in a caravan full-time? With rising living costs, the freedom of the open road, and the pull toward a simpler lifestyle, the appeal of caravan living has never been stronger. But what does it really involve — and is it even legal?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While plenty of people do it, there are important things to consider around legality, comfort, and logistics. Whether you’re dreaming of off-grid living or just want to downsize and simplify, understanding what it takes to live in a caravan is key to making it work long-term. Much of that depends on your setup — and there are many types of caravans in Heatherbrae designed to suit different living styles and needs.
Is It Legal To Live In A Caravan in Australia?
Legally, living in a caravan is possible — but it’s not black-and-white. The rules depend heavily on where you plan to live and how long you intend to stay in one place. Local council regulations play a big role, especially if you’re thinking of setting up a permanent caravan residence on private land or in a backyard.
In many areas, you can live in a caravan for short periods (usually up to 60 days), but anything longer may require council approval or rezoning. On the flip side, caravan parks and long-stay holiday parks are often set up for permanent residents, complete with leases, postal addresses, and utilities. Many Australians live full-time in these parks quite comfortably, blending affordability with community.
Comfort and Practicality: What Full-Time Caravan Life Is Really Like
Living in a caravan long-term means getting creative with space, storage, and daily routines. It’s not about roughing it — modern caravans can come equipped with bathrooms, full kitchens, air conditioning, solar panels, and even washing machines. But you’ll still need to downsize, plan your power and water usage, and embrace a minimalist lifestyle.
The key is having the right setup. A caravan designed for full-time living should offer strong insulation, efficient heating and cooling, reliable water storage, and durable fittings. If you’re serious about long-term travel or setting up semi-permanently in a park, investing in a model that’s built for comfort makes a huge difference.
Where Can You Legally Stay Long-Term?
If you’re not travelling constantly, you’ll need a legal place to stay. Options include:
- Long-term caravan parks: Many offer full facilities, powered sites, and long-term leasing.
- Private property with council approval: You may be allowed to live in a caravan on private land with the right permits.
- Rural or regional areas: Some councils are more lenient, especially for off-grid setups.
- Backyard setups: These can be trickier. Even if you own the land, living in a caravan full-time may breach zoning laws without proper approvals.
Always check with the local council before committing. Some areas have cracked down on illegal long-term stays due to health, safety, or zoning issues.
Cost of Living in a Caravan Full-Time
One of the main appeals of caravan living is cutting costs — and yes, it can be cheaper than renting or owning a house. But there are still expenses to factor in:
- Initial purchase: A high-quality caravan suited to full-time living might cost anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000+
- Site fees: Caravan parks charge weekly rent, usually between $150 and $300, depending on location and amenities
- Insurance: Comprehensive caravan insurance is essential
- Registration and maintenance: Annual rego, servicing, and repairs can add up
- Utilities: Power, gas, water, and internet — especially if you’re staying in one place for a while
Overall, it can be more affordable — especially if you already own the van — but it’s not entirely free of responsibility or cost.
Common Challenges of Living in a Caravan
It’s not all sunsets and freedom. There are real lifestyle adjustments involved in living in a caravan full-time:
- Space: Even the roomiest vans can feel cramped over time
- Storage: You’ll need to embrace minimalism and organise cleverly
- Weather: Insulation, airflow, and heating/cooling are crucial
- Connectivity: Staying online while on the move can be tricky
- Security: Whether parked up or on the road, you’ll need to stay vigilant
These aren’t deal-breakers — but they’re worth thinking through before diving in. A bit of planning goes a long way toward avoiding burnout or buyer’s remorse.
FAQs
Can I park my caravan and live in it anywhere in Australia?
No — not anywhere you like. While living in a caravan is legal under certain conditions, you can’t simply pull up in a public space and stay indefinitely. Most councils across Australia have local regulations that prohibit long-term camping or habitation in public places like beach carparks, residential streets, or rest stops. These rules exist for health, safety, and planning reasons, and breaking them can lead to warnings, fines, or even forced relocation. If you’re considering living in your van full-time, your safest legal options are long-stay caravan parks, holiday parks with permanent sites, or private property where the owner has secured council approval. Some rural areas offer more flexibility, especially for off-grid setups, but it still pays to check zoning rules. The bottom line is this — just because you can physically park somewhere doesn’t mean you’re allowed to live there long-term. Always confirm with the relevant local council before setting up camp in any one location.
Is it comfortable to live in a caravan long-term?
It can absolutely be comfortable — but only if your caravan is set up properly for full-time living. Modern caravans often come with impressive features like full kitchens, showers, heating and cooling systems, and clever storage solutions. But comfort depends on more than just the floor plan. The size of the caravan, the build quality, and your ability to adapt your lifestyle to a smaller space all play major roles. People who succeed in full-time van life tend to enjoy minimalism and don’t mind giving up some creature comforts for mobility and freedom. That said, if you’re someone who needs a lot of space, privacy, or convenience, living in a caravan can start to feel cramped — especially during bad weather or long stays in one spot. The more self-contained your caravan is (think solar panels, water tanks, insulation), the more comfortable your day-to-day experience will be. It’s all about the right setup and realistic expectations.
Do I need special insurance if I live in a caravan full-time?
Yes — you definitely need specialised insurance if you plan to live in your caravan full-time. Standard caravan policies are usually written for recreational use, which means they may not cover things like long-term stays, permanent belongings, or damage incurred during everyday living. If you’re on the road full-time or staying in one place long-term, you’ll want a policy designed for full-time residence. These typically include cover for personal contents, storm and accidental damage, public liability, and sometimes even temporary accommodation if your van becomes uninhabitable. It’s also worth checking how your travel patterns affect your premium — some insurers may require you to notify them if you’re regularly changing locations. When applying, be upfront about how you use your caravan, or you risk voiding your cover in the event of a claim. A broker who understands caravan life can help you find a policy that protects both your asset and your lifestyle properly.
How do I get mail or an address if I live in a caravan?
Receiving mail while living in a caravan full-time requires a bit of planning, but there are several workable options. If you’re staying in one place for an extended period — like a long-term caravan park — you may be able to use their address to receive letters or parcels. Some parks even provide PO boxes or a reception-based mail collection service for residents. Another common method is to use the address of a trusted family member or friend, especially for important items like banking or government correspondence. Some full-time travellers choose to rent a PO box in a location they pass through regularly. For even more flexibility, mail forwarding services are available that scan and email your mail or redirect it to a chosen address. These services are popular among grey nomads and remote workers. No matter which method you choose, make sure it’s secure and reliable — especially for official documents or time-sensitive items.
Is it cheaper to live in a caravan than a house?
For many people, yes — living in a caravan can be more affordable than maintaining a traditional home, especially when it comes to eliminating rent or mortgage repayments. But it’s not entirely free of expenses. You’ll still need to budget for things like caravan park fees (or site rent), fuel, maintenance, insurance, registration, utilities, and internet access. These costs can vary significantly depending on how often you move and where you choose to stay. Tourist-heavy areas and premium parks will cost more, while off-grid setups can cut costs but may require higher upfront investment in things like solar and water systems. If you already own your caravan, your living costs will likely be far lower than renting or owning a house. But it’s important to factor in ongoing maintenance — everything from tyres to plumbing can wear out. For those who embrace a minimalist lifestyle and plan wisely, caravan living can offer real savings without sacrificing too much comfort.
Making caravan living work for you
Choosing to live in a caravan is a big decision, but for many Australians it’s a lifestyle shift that brings freedom, simplicity, and financial breathing room. With the right setup, a clear understanding of the legal side, and a bit of adaptability, full-time caravan life can be both comfortable and sustainable. It’s not for everyone — but for those willing to embrace the change, it can open the door to a new way of living that’s rich in experience and light on clutter.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.