Vagabond Bird of Passage

The ultimate itinerary for your Australian East Coast road trip adventure

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If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to travel the East Coast of Australia on wheels, then you have come to the right place! I have hand-crafted the perfect itinerary, starting down south in coffee-loving Melbourne and finishing up in tropical, sunny Cape Tribulation, with awe-inspiring stops along the way. This road trip itinerary is based on personal experience and countless hours of research. It is the exact road trip I have planned and done myself, so you can count on this guide being practical and comprehensive. This is an itinerary tailored to a road trip in a car or van, and it’s perfect if you are flexible in terms of overnight stays. Personally, I was switching it up, some nights I slept in the car, other nights at a campground and sometimes in a hotel or hostel!

When I did this road trip, I ended up driving about 6.000 kilometres, and this trip took me pretty much exactly a month to complete. I left Melbourne on the 29th of June and after a few days in Cairns, I boarded my flight on the 29th of July. I budgeted for about 5.600 AUD / 40.000 NOK / 3.800 USD for the whole trip, including everything from the lease of the car to the activities, campground fees and food. Keep in mind this budget does not include the deposit for the car, as it is refundable. I ended up not going over my budget and actually spent less. I will elaborate more on time, distance and budget later in this article. Now that we have the practical stuff out of the way…

If you think this adventure is within your abilities and budget, but are still on the fence about doing this, there is just one thing I’ve got to say; do it! More than a year and many adventures later, I still consider this my favourite chapter of my life thus far. I would argue that Australia is the best country for road-tripping. Not only is it quite safe, but you’ll also find plenty of convenient amenities like picnic spots, free toilets, hot showers, and free camping spots along the way, plus the locals are super friendly and always ready to help out. And to top it all off, Australia is just unbelievably beautiful – it’s got everything! Every beach you go to will be more beautiful than the last. You’ll see tropical and subtropical rainforests with the most unique wildlife. There are mountain ranges and deserts. And you will find plenty of pristine swimming holes along the way. And this list would not be complete if I didn’t mention the warm and kindhearted locals with charming accents! 

Before you start packing your bags and booking that flight down under, make sure to keep reading! This itinerary includes every single overnight stop along with some hidden gems for day visits, giving you a complete and personal guide that goes beyond the usual tourist spots and travel lists.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I trust and believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps me keep this blog running and allows me to continue sharing my adventures with you. Thank you for being here!


Destinations

Melbourne

Start: Melbourne 

This was the starting point for my road trip, a natural choice after living in Melbourne for the past six months. While you could kick off your adventure in Cairns, I personally believe starting in Melbourne is the way to go. It’s such a charming city that it truly deserves its own article. If you want to discover the best things to do in Melbourne from someone with first-hand experience who lived and studied there, be sure to check out my blog post about this gorgeous city (will be published soon)!


Lakes Entrance

Overnight stop

Lakes Entrance was my first overnight stop, a charming little town in Victoria with a stunning beach that’s definitely worth a visit, Lakes Entrance Beach. The parking lot by the Lakes Entrance Skate Park is what I called home for the night. There are even free hot showers and public toilets, and it’s right by the water, so you get to wake up to a nice view. And don’t worry, it’s perfectly legal to stay here. I’ll cover the camping laws for each state later in this article.


Salmon Rocks

Day stop

This is a nice spot to take a break from the long drive. Like everywhere in Australia, you will find another beautiful beach here. Pack a lunch and enjoy it at the lookout overlooking the dramatic rocky landscape transitioning into a white-sand beach. Keep in mind that you’ll have to drive down a gravel road to get here, so if you are uncomfortable with that you might want to skip this stop.


Merimbula

Overnight Stop

Another charming small town, Merimbula is absolutely gorgeous and very underrated. This will be your first stop in New South Whales after leaving Victoria if you are following this itinerary. Park at Mitchies Jetty and enjoy the stunning beach, then follow the creek for a walk to the town centre, where you’ll find plenty of shops. Go shopping, dine at a restaurant, or stock up on groceries – there’s a Woolworths just a short walk up the hill.

In the morning, I highly recommend a trip to the Short Point lookout, located just a quick 5-minute drive from the town centre. Park in the lot and enjoy the sunrise; you can even grab a coffee from the coffee truck. Watch the sun rise above the ocean and take in the view of the beautiful beach below. Be ready to chat with some friendly locals taking their dogs for a morning walk, curious about how you ended up in their small but gorgeous hometown.

Throughout my trip, I was in such a rush to get to Queensland, but little did I know this would become one of my favourite memories from my journey along the East Coast. Was it the immaculate vibes of this lovely town, or the realisation of finally being on the road and feeling that freedom set in? You’ll have to go and find out for yourself.


Jervis Bay

Overnight stop

Jervis Bay is the first location on this list that you’ll find on most itineraries for Australia, and trust me, there’s a good reason for that! Take a stroll through the charming small towns scattered along the bay, and keep an eye on the water, if you’re lucky, you might spot whales or even bioluminescence!

Be sure to check out the Jervis Bay Mangrove Boardwalk in Huskisson if you get the chance. Unfortunately, I couldn’t experience it myself as it was closed for maintenance when I was there, but I hope it will be open by the time you visit! Also, don’t forget to stop by the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, where you can enjoy bird and whale watching!


Kiama

Day stop

When you set course towards Sydney from Jervis Bay, Kiama is a great spot to take a break from the long drive. Grab lunch at one of the many cafés or venture into an op shop to hunt for forgotten treasures. Take a hike to the Pheasant Point Drive Lookout for an overview of the coast, then stroll down to the town centre by Black Beach, where you’ll find a scenic walk by the sea!

While Kiama is certainly tempting, don’t make the same mistake I did by staying too long, you’ll want to have plenty of time to explore the next few destinations before reaching Sydney.


Austinmer

Day stop

Now, this is a destination I wish I had made time to see. It’s a charming small coastal town on the way to the Sea Cliff Bridge. Unfortunately, when I arrived, dusk was approaching, and I didn’t have time to stop as I was in a rush to see the bridge snaking along the steep cliffs above the ocean before it got too dark. But I definitely plan to come back someday! I hope you get the chance to visit this lovely town.


Grand Pacific Drive and Sea Cliff Bridge

Day stop

Get ready to be awe-struck when you finally make it here. The majestic bridge follows the coastline, rising high above the ocean, while to your left, steep mountains tower above. Make sure to account for plenty of time to spend here. There are numerous viewpoints and the drive is so gorgeous you might want to drive it twice (that’s what I did at least)! End your Grand Pacific Drive at the Stanwell Tops Lookout before heading into Sydney.


Sydney

Overnight stop

Now, this is another classic on the Australian itinerary! Sydney is a gorgeous city, and the must-visit spots include the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. There’s already so much information about Sydney online, so I won’t go too in-depth here.

I stayed overnight in the lot near Sans Souci Park, where several travellers were also staying in vans and cars. This area has free public toilets. But be sure to look for signage if you decide to stay here, as rules may change over time. Although it was legal when I was there, that might have changed since. If you’d like to find alternative free places to stay, I’ll cover how to do that later in this article.

From this camp spot, I drove closer to the city centre and found free parking using the Park4Night app. From there, I took public transport wherever I needed to go. Public transport is easy in Sydney! Just search your destination on Google Maps, select the public transport option, head to the right spot, and then you can «tap on» with your payment card directly on the transport. I used this method to take a ferry, metro, and bus – convenient and easy!


The Blue Mountains

Overnight stop

Another one of my favourite destinations along this journey! The Blue Mountains is a dreamy national park just a short 45-minute drive from Sydney. With rugged mountain ridges stretching as far as the eye can see, tall eucalyptus forests, and plenty of wildlife, it’s definitely a stop you shouldn’t skip!

Be sure to hike the Wentworth Falls trail for stunning views, gorgeous waterfalls, and a trek along the steep mountain cliffside. It’s a dramatic but beautiful hike, and you’re likely to spot kookaburras, cockatoos, wallabies, and lyrebirds along the way!


Bennetts Beach

Day stop

This is one of my lucky, accidental discoveries! I stopped to take a break from the long drive and stumbled upon this gorgeous beach. With islands right off the coast adding to the dramatic scenery, this usually empty beach stretches on for miles! It’s definitely a stop worth adding to your itinerary.


Port Macquarie

Overnight stop

A sweet costal town, another great place to camp for the night!


Byron Bay

Overnight stop

This is a big one on most Australia itineraries! People might get upset with me for saying this, but my personal opinion is that Byron Bay is massively overrated. Let me explain why. First of all, it’s very touristy and just doesn’t feel authentic. This was also the first and last place in Australia where I paid for parking, and let me tell you, it wasn’t cheap, nor was it easy to find a free spot – even during the Australian winter months!

As for the beach, it was definitely mediocre compared to other Aussie beaches I had visited, and it was the first one I experienced that felt crowded. To be fair, I had been spoiled by previously having had most beaches to myself, so that might have influenced my view.

But to each their own! Most people really seem to enjoy Byron, so give it a go and form your own opinion about it.


Gold Coast 

Overnight stop

This is the first destination in Queensland on this itinerary. Unfortunately, I found the Gold Coast to be a bit overrated. The city felt empty and soulless, with a lot of hotels and apartment complexes, and it was quite touristy.

I wouldn’t say to skip it entirely, but I personally chose to cut my time here short. While you’re there, though, I highly recommend taking a surf class! The Gold Coast has fantastic surf spots for both beginners and experienced surfers. In fact, there’s even a place called Surfers Paradise! I took this surf course at The Spit, and it was definitely a highlight of my time in the Gold Coast.

Although I was a bit disappointed with the Gold Coast, the good news is that it’s just going to keep getting better from now on!


Moreton Island and the Tanglooma Wrecks

Day Stop

Now, this is a hidden gem among snorkelling spots! There are shipwrecks scattered along the sandy coast of this island, along with plenty of interesting wildlife. While snorkelling among the wrecks in the turquoise waters, I was lucky enough to spot sea turtles and even a Wobbegong shark!

The vessels were intentionally sunk along the coast by the Queensland Government between 1963 and 1984 to provide safe anchorage for smaller boats. Today, coral grows on these wrecks, and many marine species call this place home.

To get to Moreton Island, you’ll need to take a ferry. I also highly recommend booking a snorkelling tour as it’s both safer and likely to end up being a better experience. The guide can point out wildlife and interesting parts of the wrecks. I did this snorkelling tour and had a fantastic time, the tour included ferry transport to and off the island!

Brisbane

Overnight stop

Brisbane is a beautiful city that is definitely worth exploring. Take a stroll along the Brisbane River and visit the botanical gardens, or go to one of the many Sunday markets. 

Glasshouse Mountains

Day stop

The Glasshouse Mountains are the perfect stop on the way from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast, serving as the next overnight stop on this itinerary. This unique group of volcanic peaks dramatically rises above the flat landscape. I highly recommend doing one of the many hikes to one of the peaks at sunset; there’s something truly magical about watching the sunset in this picturesque setting. I did the Mount Ngungun Summit Track hike, so if you want to climb the same peak I did, then I can guarantee you’ll have a memorable experience!

Sunshine Coast

Overnight stop

The Sunshine Coast is one of my absolute favourite destinations along the East Coast! While it’s less known than its famous sister, the Gold Coast, this allows «Sunny Coast» to maintain some of its pristine magic. It’s not completely remote, there’s a decent population here, but it still has that charming small-town feel. You get the best of both worlds; if you want to grab a coffee at a café and go shopping, no worries! If you want to go to a remote-feeling beach and get away from the crowds, also no problem!

Make sure to visit Moffat Headland Lookout for a stunning sunset or explore the fascinating rock formations at Dickey Beach. Oh, and did I mention that the Sunshine Coast is a fantastic spot for surfing?

Noosa Heads

Day stop

Noosa Heads is a must-visit destination on the East Coast. It’s remote, beautiful, and not overly touristy, giving it an authentic feel. Stroll along Noosa Heads Main Beach, then make your way to Noosa Botanic Gardens for a unique and picturesque landscape.

Harvey Bay and K’gari (Fraser Island)

Overnight stop

K’gari (aka Fraser Island) is another must-see on your road trip adventure! This is the world’s largest sand island, home to some truly unique flora and fauna, including dingoes on land and humpback whales in the nearby waters! You can book a four-wheel drive adventure to explore the island or hop on a whale safari to experience it from the deck. I opted for the whale safari and had an absolute blast – two curious young humpback whales swam right around the boat!

Bundaberg

Day stop

I’ll be honest, the only reason I went here was for the famous Bundaberg Rum! Visiting the distillery and the town where this iconic Aussie drink originates was a fun experience. If you’re a rum fan as well, be sure to grab a selfie with the 7-metre-tall rum bottle in front of the distillery!

Seventeen Seventy (1770)

Overnight stop

Seventeen Seventy is a stunning, remote spot with a unique name! It was named after the year 1770, when Captain James Cook and his crew first landed in the area during their voyage along the eastern coast of Australia. Cook’s landing marked one of the first European contacts with the region, which was inhabited by the Goorie people. For many years, the area remained relatively undeveloped, primarily serving as a fishing and logging community.

Beyond its fascinating history, this place boasts picturesque beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. It’s definitely worth exploring, but be sure to plan ahead! I recommend downloading offline maps (I will touch upon this in the «useful resources» section), as I had no reception during my visit. Unfortunately, I didn’t plan properly and struggled to find a place to stay for the night. I tried several cafés, but none had Wi-Fi. The most beautiful destinations tend to be the most out of reach! So be well-prepared to avoid the mistakes I made!

Calliope South Campsite at River Ranch is the best free campsite between Seventeen Seventy and the next overnight stop, Mackay. If you’re looking for something more convenient, you’ll likely need to opt for a paid campground or accommodation.

Mackay

Overnight stop

Stop by Mackay to experience an authentic Queensland city. The area offers the ultimate blend of nature and urban charm! The closest free camp spot is the «Free Overnight Rest Area» – 8497 Bruce Hwy, Bloomsbury QLD 4799, Australia.

Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays 

Overnight stop

If there is one destination on this itinerary that you cannot ship, then it’s the Whitsundays! Whitehaven Beach has been voted the most beautiful beach on this planet numerous times, and I can confidently say that this is the most beautiful place I’ve ever been to! The turquoise, pristine water with swirls of pure white silica sand below and the evergreen hills in the background… now, this place deserves to be called heaven on earth! There is a reason I chose it as the main photo on my home page!

To get to Whitehaven, you’ll need to catch a boat to the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach. I did an all-day sailing trip around the Whitsundays, and it was magical! We explored the Whitsundays, visited Whitehaven Beach, and snorkelled the Great Barrier Reef – what a day! If you want to do the same and sail around the Whitsundays, here’s the link!

A full day of sailing!

While visiting Whitehaven is a day trip, you’ll want to stay in Airlie Beach. Take a stroll around the centre and discover the many cute shops and food stalls. There’s also a boardwalk along the coast for some tropical views.

For accommodation, I stayed in the «Backpackers By The Bay» hostel. The facilities are great and it’s a fun, colourful hostel. But that is not the best thing about this spot! My favourite part of my stay there was the garden area! Take your «brekky» outside, and expect to share it with curious, wild cockatoos. They can and they will land on your shoulder!

Townsville

Overnight stop

Townsville, despite its name, is not a small town; it’s the largest city in regional Queensland, and it’s quite an interesting one at that! When I was there, I couldn’t shake the feeling of a Wild West vibe – think unique architecture, a surprisingly dry climate with red cliffs right in the middle of the city, and the empty feeling of the streets.

Hike up to Castle Hill Lookout for an overview of this fascinating city. Stroll through Queens Gardens to enjoy the beautiful flora. There is even an aviary with interesting, local bird species! You can also unwind at the beach at Strand Park or take a walk along Ross Creek. You could also explore Magnetic Island!

Wallaman Falls

Day stop

This is a stop truly worth the drive! Wallaman Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Australia, with a height of 268 meters. It is situated deep in the rainforest of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, this was my first encounter with the tropical rainforest on this road trip, and it will likely be yours as well!

Hike down the valley through thick foliage with vines connecting the canopy overhead. Be ready for the awe-inspiring view of the monumental waterfall peeking through the greenery when you are nearing the end of the hike. When you arrive, sit down on the rocks and enjoy your lunch with one of the most magnificent views Australia has to offer. This is the route I took. 

Mission Beach and Alligators Nest Swimming Hole

Overnight stop

This is one of my absolute favourite places along the journey and shares the top spot for my favourite destination ever alongside Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays. Take a stroll along miles of tropical beach, explore the mangrove forests following the creeks leading into the ocean, and pick up one of the many fresh coconuts lying around the tree line – crack it open for a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. Just be careful not to be tempted into an afternoon swim in the sea; while alluring, the local residents happen to be saltwater crocodiles.

One place you can’t skip swimming though is the Alligators Nest Swimming Hole. Despite the name, you can trust this spot to be alligator and croc-free! Hop in and enjoy the refreshing waters of the tropics. This swimming hole is as underrated as it is beautiful. I spent several hours here and met only a few locals! Just a little heads-up, on your way to the swimming hole there is a river flowing across the road right before you arrive! I didn’t have a four-wheel drive, so I decided to park by the road and cross the river on foot, which is an adventure in itself!

To see the best of Alligators Nest Swimming Hole, swim straight forward when you enter the water from the platform. Swim up the river, and you’ll be greeted by a wall of rainforest surrounding pristine pools of turquoise, cool water. The bottom is layered with white sand, and the water is so unbelievably clear that only the cold touch of the surface will truly remind you of where the water begins. The forest canopy creates a green roof overhead. Lay back, close your eyes, and listen to the sounds of the rainforest. Far from any city or traffic noise, the only sounds you’ll hear will be the flow of water and tropical birds singing high in the canopy. Now, this is what I call paradise on earth!

Also make sure to visit Tully, which is a little charming town on the way from Mission Beach to the swimming hole. Take in the interesting architecture, this town has very unique houses compared to everything you would have seen so far on your East Coast road trip. Grab an iced coffee and enjoy a bit of reception, because there won’t be much of that at Mission Beach and Alligators Nest! Stock up on groceries and fuel, this is remote tropical Queensland after all!

Atherton Tablelands

Overnight stop

The vast Atherton Tablelands are a nature lover’s paradise! There’s so much to see and do here that you could easily spend days exploring. Make sure to check out the breathtaking Millaa Millaa Falls, where the water cascades down surrounded by massive tree ferns, it’s like stepping into a fairytale! After that, take a leisurely walk around Lake Eacham. It’s a serene spot, and if you’re lucky, you might just spot the local freshwater croc lounging in the sun!

Don’t forget to swing by the majestic Curtain Fig Tree, it’s a sight you won’t forget, with its enormous roots sprawling out like nature’s finest work of architecture. And for something truly special, head to the Yungaburra Platypus Viewing Platform. Watching those adorable platypuses glide through the water is such a unique experience; it’s one of those moments that makes you feel lucky to be in Australia. So grab your camera and get ready for an adventure in this beautiful corner of the world!

Port Douglas

Overnight stop

Port Douglas is definitely one of my favourite spots! Whenever someone mentions spending a few days in Cairns, I always suggest they swap it for Port Douglas instead. Let me paint a picture of what a day here might look like. Start your morning at Rex Smeal Park, where you can soak in stunning views of the river winding through the mangroves before meeting the ocean. Find a cozy spot beneath the palm trees, basking in the sun.

Port Douglas at sunset

When you’re ready, stroll down the charming Macrossan Street. This lively main street is filled with fun shops where you can browse surf gear, stylish clothing, or unique home decor. Keep an eye out for a wild Green Tree Frog that sometimes makes its home in one of those shops!

After your shopping spree, treat yourself to a classic Aussie meal at a local restaurant or pub. Order a «Parmy» with a Victoria Bitter—you’ll be having one of the most quintessential Aussie dinners! (I know VB gets mixed reviews, but I think it’s pretty great!)

Wrap up your day at Four Mile Beach, where the name speaks for itself! This stunning, lengthy beach is framed by tropical foliage and leads to a mangrove forest, worth the walk to the end. The dramatic mountains draped in lush greenery in the background add to the enchanting vibe. Take a refreshing swim, just be sure to stay between the red and yellow flags for safety. Afterward, you can take Island Point Road back to town for a scenic stroll through the greenery. It’s a great way to end a day in this beautiful corner of the world! 

Four Mile Beach

Cape Tribulation

Day stop

I know I keep saying this, but this destination is too great not to be among my favourites! Cape Tribulation is located in the heart of the Daintree, the oldest rainforest on this planet – it has been growing for more than 180 million years! This UNESCO World Heritage site is simply breathtaking, there’s so much to explore here!

Jungle boardwalk

You can hike along the various boardwalks that weave through the dense jungle. One of my favorite boardwalks offered stunning views and a chance to spot the incredible wildlife that calls this forest home. Keep your eyes peeled for tree kangaroos, exotic birds, snakes, or even the elusive cassowary! I was lucky enough to see two of those majestic birds crossing the road, unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to snap a photo. Also, make sure to visit some of the pristine beaches along your rainforest hike. These remote shores, bordered by dense mangrove forests, are quite unique to this part of the world, and I highly recommend taking the time to soak in the beauty!

One of the wild beaches at Cape Tribulation

I would also highly recommend doing a croc safari! It was such a unique experience, seeing the large crocodiles lounging on the riverbanks. We even spotted some baby crocodiles, how adorable! At the end of this safari, I even befriended a super chill Green Tree Frog, he quickly became the main attraction! This is the safari I did, and I highly recommend it for a unique wildlife experience. 

If you’re up for more adventure, check out Mason’s Swimming Hole. It’s a bit more crowded than Alligator Nest and in my opinion, not as nice, but it has its charm. Plus, the café nearby, Masons Café, offers some interesting dishes like crocodile and kangaroo burgers for the adventurous eater!

Before heading back south to Cairns, be sure to stop by Mount Alexandra Lookout for some stunning views that’ll take your breath away.

Mount Alexandra Lookout

Just a heads-up: you’ll need to catch a ferry to access the Daintree and enjoy all these activities. Check the timetable and be mindful of when the last ferry leaves for the day. You can find ticket info on their official website at daintreeferry.com.au. According to the latest info, the ferry operates from 5 AM until midnight, and you can usually buy tickets on-site or on their website. Just make sure to stay updated!

Cairns

The final stop 

This is going to be the last stop on this road trip itinerary! I chose Cairns as the final destination, even though it’s back the way you came, because it’s a major hub for travellers in this part of the world. It has an airport and is where I dropped off my car after leasing from Travellers Autobarn.

Whether you’ll enjoy Cairns really depends on what kind of traveller you are. If you love the party scene, you’ll probably thrive here. But for an adventurous explorer like me, it didn’t quite make it to my favourites list.

However, just a short boat ride from Cairns lies Green Island, where you can dive into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure; snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef! I highly recommend this experience! The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure in the world, stretching over more than 2000 kilometres, and it’s a truly special UNESCO World Heritage site. I did this excursion to Green Island and took the opportunity for a guided snorkelling tour around the reef, and I must say, this was one of the most beautiful and unique experiences I’ve had!

Q&A

I have put together a little Q&A section with relevant information to help you with preparations for your trip!

What are the best destinations on the East Coast of Australia?

In my opinion, the cannot-miss spots along the East Coast are the Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach, Mission Beach with its Alligators Nest Swimming Hole, Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas, Wallaman Falls, Sunshine Coast, the Grand Pacific Drive and the Blue Mountains. When it comes down to cities, definitely don’t skip Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane! 

These are my top picks, and I know not everyone will share the same views. But that’s the beauty of travel – everyone has their own experiences and preferences! This blog is all about sharing my honest thoughts based on what I’ve seen and done, rather than pushing out generic content. I hope you find this helpful for your own adventures!

How long time does it take to drive the East Coast of Australia?

This road trip took me pretty much exactly a month, but it really depends on your travel style. Are you a fast-paced explorer, or do you prefer to take things slow and soak in each spot? Personally, I maxed out at three days in my favourite destinations. For most other places, I just explored for the day and made them an overnight stop before moving on. If you want to linger a bit longer at each place, you’ll need more than a month. Honestly, I don’t think you can cover this whole road trip in less than that! If you’re looking to cut it short, you could start in Brisbane, but I wouldn’t recommend it. You’d miss out on so many beautiful spots in the underrated regions of Victoria and New South Wales – and trust me, coming from someone who loves Queensland, those areas are still worth it!

How much does it cost to do an Australia East Coast road trip?

I budgeted around 8500 AUD for the whole trip, covering everything from the vehicle lease and deposit to food and fuel etc. You can check out the detailed budget in the table below. Just a heads up, this budget is for one person, so be sure to add up the extra expenses for any additional travel companions. I actually ended up spending less than I anticipated, but it’s always smart to have a safety margin. Keep in mind, I rarely went out for dinner and almost skipped the drinks altogether. If you plan to enjoy more dining out or nightlife, definitely budget for a bit more. I mostly stayed at free campgrounds but treated myself to a cheaper hotel every now and then!

Just remember to use this budget as inspiration only, and rather make your own based on your personal travel style and preferences!

Should I travel by car or campervan?

This really depends on your personal preferences, travel style, and budget. Whether you’re going solo or with others also plays a role in terms of space. I tackled this adventure on my own and wanted to keep costs down – plus, luxury isn’t really my thing, so I opted for a car. My trusty Ford Falcon did the trick! It was the wagon version, so there was plenty of space. Sometimes I slept in the car, and other times I treated myself to a hotel. You could even bring along a tent or hammock if that’s your vibe! If you’re after more space and comfort or traveling with someone, a campervan might be a great choice. But if you’re feeling adventurous, a car gives you that extra flexibility and is a more budget-friendly option!

Ford Falcon
My humble abode

Is it hard to get used to driving on the left side of the road?

Not really! For me, it only took a day or two to adjust, and then it felt completely natural. A bit of research on local traffic laws goes a long way, and if you have a local friend, riding shotgun with them and observing can really help you get the hang of it before you take the wheel yourself!

What are the camping laws in each state?

Camping laws differ from state to state, I’ll break them down for you for each of the three states you’ll pass through on this trip.

Starting in Victoria, the rules are quite simple; it’s perfectly legal to sleep in your car, but be sure to watch for signs that prohibit overnight stays in certain areas. In New South Wales, the same rules apply – just make sure to respect individual location regulations and look for any signage. While it could be a good idea to check local council rules, I personally didn’t run into any trouble following these general guidelines.

In Queensland, however, the regulations are more strict. You can’t just stay anywhere overnight, even if there’s no prohibition sign. You must use a designated campground or rest area. The good news is that there are plenty of free campgrounds! I’ll cover how to find these in the next section. You can use a rest area for a maximum of 20 hours, however, the free campgrounds have different time restrictions and usually you may stay for way longer, be sure to update yourself on the regulations for the specific camp spot you are staying in.

When to go?

The best time to go really depends on your personal preferences. Just keep in mind that Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, so summer runs from about December to February, while winter is from June to August. I travelled in winter, mostly because it coincided with my uni semester break. I noticed that many locals from the south head up north during this time. Once I reached NSW, the temperatures were consistently around 20°C, making for very comfortable weather. According to some sources, Queensland’s peak tourist season is during the Aussie summer, which makes sense since I found most beaches delightfully empty and mostly met locals along the way. If you’re after milder weather and fewer crowds, I’d recommend visiting in winter. But if you prefer the heat, then summer is the way to go!

How to find camping spots?

The best way to find campgrounds, whether free or paid, is by using Google Maps and the Park4Night app. On Google Maps, just search for «free campground» or «rest area» to find free camping options. With the Park4Night app, you can explore your current area and check out various pins on the map for free camping spots as well as day parking options. You can also read reviews from other travellers to help you decide if a place is your next overnight stop!

What are some general tips and useful resources? 

There are several apps I’d recommend using for your adventure! «Park4Night» is fantastic for finding free camping spots and parking, even in big cities like Sydney!

«MAPS.ME» is another lifesaver. It’s a free offline maps app that saved me many times! Just make sure to download the maps for the areas you plan to visit. This app works without any reception, and even the navigation function still operates off-grid!

For refuelling, check out «FuelMapAustralia» to keep tabs on the closest petrol stations (or «servos» as they say in Oz). As you venture into more remote areas, like North Tropical Queensland, knowing the distance between service stations is essential to avoid running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere.

AllTrails is both an app and a website I use all the time! It’s the best place to find hiking routes and get all the info you need before hitting the trails. Plus, I also use GetYourGuide to discover activities and things to do in any area.

Now, let’s talk safety measures. Download the «Emergency Plus» app so you can quickly call for help if anything goes awry. It’s also a smart idea to bring a backup phone. Your phone will be your navigation tool, wallet, and itinerary holder, so having access to these essentials even if your primary phone goes kaput is a must! I learned this the hard way when my phone broke down in the middle of the jungle in Tanzania, leading to some amusing and awkward moments as I knocked on doors asking locals if I could dry my phone in their rice (but that’s a story for another day).

Also, don’t keep your entire itinerary in one app! I regretted that when my itinerary app crashed the day before my trip. Luckily, I had a backup in my notes app, so I recommend using that old-fashioned method – either jot it down on your phone or get it on paper.

And here’s a unique tip: watch out for kangaroos when driving! These guys love to hop onto the road, and the last thing you want is to crash into a roo – ouch! And if you come across any injured wildlife, please take them to a vet. In Australia, injured wildlife receives free care from any vet, another reason to love this country! There’s even a wildlife emergency hotline available 24/7 – save these numbers for later: 1300 094 737 or 1300 596 457. They gave me great advice when I found an injured bird! I even altered my travel plans and snuk him into my hotel room (shhh!) to keep him safe until I could take him to the vet. I later called to check in and got the good news that he made it – yay!

Bird rescue – he ended up making it!

Before you set off on your adventure, especially if you’re going solo, consider investing in a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). This little device could save your life! Register it with the government upon purchase, learn how to use it, and perform a test before you head out. The PLB transmits a distress signal via satellite when activated, sending your GPS coordinates to emergency services, helping them find you quickly, even when you’re off-grid. Plus, it’s water-resistant and floats, making it useful on land and at sea. I was lucky enough not to need mine, but having it gave me peace of mind and allowed me to explore further without the same worries.

Going solo?

Are you thinking about going solo? I say go for it! It’s a life-changing experience to rely solely on yourself while out adventuring, you’ll learn so much along the way. And the freedom that comes with solo travel is simply amazing! Australia is a very safe country for solo travellers, including solo female travellers. Just keep your wits about you and follow the safety tips I mentioned above, and you’ll have the time of your life!

But what about the huge spiders and the dangerous wildlife?

… you ask, but trust me, it’s not as bad as people make it out to be! I saw exactly zero snakes during my six-plus months down under, and I wasn’t exactly just sticking to paved roads. I had a few spider encounters, but on the bright side, Australia cured me of my fear of spiders! Now that I know they can’t harm me back in Europe, I don’t mind them at all. Just do your research on what to do in case of a bite, be it snake or spider, and you’ll be fine – it’s very unlikely to happen anyway. Follow local signs and warnings, and when swimming, only do so at beaches with lifeguards and stick between the red and yellow flags. This isn’t just about wildlife; it’s also about rip currents, also known as rips! As long as you take general precautions, you’ve got nothing to worry about.
And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the experience! The wildlife in Australia is truly one-of-a-kind – you won’t find anything like it anywhere else! Remember, it’s their home, so approach with respect, but also let yourself be awestruck by the incredible beauty of the animals down under. Each encounter is a chance to connect with nature in a way that’s simply unforgettable!

Safe travels!

As you set off on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure through Australia, remember that every journey is about embracing the unexpected and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re lounging on a pristine beach, hiking through lush rainforests, or exploring vibrant cities, each experience will shape your understanding of this incredible country. Don’t forget to take your time, soak in the sights, and connect with the locals and fellow travellers along the way. Australia has so much to offer, and I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip. Safe travels, and may your adventures be as remarkable as the landscapes that await you!

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    • Hey! I’m Natalie, and I’m all about travel – exploring new places and getting to know different cultures is my passion. My goal is to share my experiences with you to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. This blog is all about sharing my authentic, first-hand experiences and helpful tips, giving you a true glimpse into what these wonderful places are really like!

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