Discovery Campervans Australia
Call for a Motorhome Quote

CALL US

Top Tips for UK Campervaners

Drivers licence

If you have a full open licence in the United Kingdom, you will not need an international license. If you have an old paper licence, you will also need your passport for photo identification as well.

Driving conditions

Brits and Australian's both drive on the left hand side of the road so you don't have to worry about which way you are driving. Australia has round abouts (rotaries) just like in the UK, however if you are travelling through Melbourne you may want to google what hook turns are.

Liability / Bond

Liability and bond are similar to excess and bond in the UK. Excess is the highest amount you would have to pay in case of an accident (before the vehicle insurance pays the rest). Bond is the amount of money you must leave with the campervan hire company as a security to ensure they get there vehicle back in proper working order. The bond is charged to your credit card.

Pointers on weather

Australia has opposite seasons to the United Kingdom. Australia is great to visit year round, however some areas can be very seasonal, such as Tropical North Queensland and Darwin, as they have wet seasons over summer time. Outback and rural Australia can often reach over 45 degrees in the summer month, which is something to consider if you aren't used to extreme heat. Be careful where you cool off, always read the signs at swimming areas.

Can I stop anywhere?

Unfortunately not. Typically you will stay in a caravan park overnight or an approved free stay park. You will receive a list of free stays on booking. Free stays are usually just a place to pull up at for a night and may not have toilets or shower facilities. Free stay sites do not have power to plug into, however are convenient for overnight stays and help to save a few Pounds.

Campervans with toilet and shower

There are multiple campervan configurations, but the biggest question you need to ask yourself is 'Do I want a toilet and shower or one without?' Campervans with a toilet and shower allow you to utilise freestays, however more affordable campervans without a toilet and shower mean you would need to stop and pay for campervan parks more often.

Luggage

If you are returning the campervan to the same location, it is possible to leave luggage at the depots. (Please note depots take no responsibility for your luggage if you do this). If you have a one way rental (drop off at a different place to pick up) then you need to take your luggage with you. Since a campervan is usually limited in space, we recommend that you use soft bags that can be folded or packed into tight spaces. Duffle bags, with rollers for easy airport transit are ideal. You will also need a UK to Australia power plug, however you will not need a voltage adaptor as well.

Australia is a much bigger country than most travellers (and some locals) realise. For example it takes 10.5 hours without stopping just from Brisbane to Sydney. The map below shows just how vast a country Australia is.

We've been there and done that, allowing us to build up an abundance of resources to help you with planning your ultimate Australian adventure. Please see our suggested itineraries and campervan guide for more helpful information.

As of March 2015, 1 GBP = 1.96 AUD making Australia an affordable holiday choice, meaning you can travel longer or upgrade your campervan, but remember to leave a few dollars aside to try the Vegemite!

International Campervan Rental: