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Australia FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Australian Motorhome Holidays.

What’s the weather going to be like?

Australia's climate varies greatly throughout the eight states and territories; there are four seasons across most of the country and a wet and dry season in the tropical north. Australia's seasons are at opposite times to those in the northern hemisphere. December to February is summer; March to May is autumn; June to August is winter; and September to November is spring.

Can I self-cater on campsites?

Eating on campsites is easy, with most having excellent kitchens equipped with hobs, ovens, fridges, freezers, and microwaves. Many even provide kettles, toasters, not to mention open fires, braziers, and gas BBQ’s. Washing up facilities and even washing up liquid, cloths and brushes are provided, and you’ll meet interesting people from all over the world.

Do I need a visa?

Unless you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa prior to entering the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of visas, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, at your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate. You can also apply for certain types of visas on the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.

What about laundry?

Getting some laundry done on a campsite laundry is easy, so pack accordingly. Costs are in the region of A$4-8 (£2-4) for a wash and tumble dry.

What are the top tips for driving a motorhome?
  • Be aware of your motorhome’s height when parking under a tree or entering a car park.
  • Reverse with care – if your motorhome does not have a reversing camera then we suggest that you have someone guide you back.
  • Remember to disconnect from your electrical hook up before driving off!
  • You’ll have a familiarisation session at pick up but it’s worth noting where the wipers, lights and fuel cap are before setting off.
  • Secure cupboard contents and ensure that surfaces are clear of loose items which can slide off in transit (kettles, cameras, cups etc).
  • Use a GPS to plan your timings: distances in Australia can take longer to drive due to road trains, animals and the weather (and the fact that you may well be making frequent stops for photos, cups of tea and so on).
What side of the road do Australians drive on?

Australians drive on the left side of two-way roads. Ask passengers to remind you of this every time you set off and when you are turning at an intersection. You should always use pedestrian crossings where possible and remember to look right, then left and then right again when you are walking across the street.

What are the important rules of the road?

Road conditions can vary from a sealed road surface to gravel and unsealed roads. If you are travelling on unsealed roads a four-wheel drive (4WD) is recommended. Be aware of hazards including holes, soft road edges and changing road surfaces. Keep to the speed limit and obey road closure signs.

Australia is a land of extreme weather conditions where some parts of the country may be affected by floods, bushfires, or cyclones. You should always plan your trip in advance and check for local weather conditions in the area you are travelling to. You should not attempt to cross flooded roads as flood waters often have strong currents, which can sweep your vehicle away. You can contact the local State Emergency Service (SES) or phone 000 if you are in an emergency situation.

Is it illegal not to wear a seatbelt?

Yes. All drivers and passengers in the car must also wear seatbelts. Children under age seven must be in a child restraint appropriate for the child’s size and weight.

Are there speed limits in Australia?

Speed limits are strictly enforced in Australia. The speed limit is the maximum speed permitted on that road and you must not drive above the limit at any time. Some roads do not have visible signs, but speed limits still apply. You should be especially careful in residential areas and in school zones.

What are the rules on drinking alcohol and driving?

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and Australia has very serious penalties if you are caught doing so. In Australia, you are not permitted to drive a car if your blood alcohol level is 0.05 per cent or higher. If you hold a probationary or provisional driver’s licence, your blood alcohol level must be zero when driving. Driving after taking drugs that affect your ability to drive is illegal and penalties are severe.

Are there rest areas on Australia’s roads?

It is common to travel long distances in Australia, so you should plan your journey to include several rest breaks and to ensure you have enough petrol for your journey. Rest areas are located every 80-100 kilometres (49-62 miles) on main highways and roads for people to pull over and rest when needed.

Is it safe to drive in rural and remote areas?

Driving in rural and remote areas requires special driving skills and awareness of different road conditions. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and that it has been recently serviced. Always carry a spare tyre, tools, and extra water.

If you are planning to travel to remote areas that are not on major highways, there are often long distances between towns and facilities so it’s important that you plan your trip before setting off. Inform family or friends of your intended route with an expected arrival time (ETA) and make sure you have plenty of fuel as well as food and water. You may also consider hiring emergency communications equipment like a satellite phone or an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) device.

Is there wildlife on the roads?

Watch out for wildlife on the road, such as kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas. Livestock such as cattle may also graze on the side of an unfenced road. You should always be travelling at a safe speed so if an animal does cross in front of you, you can further reduce your speed. Do not attempt to swerve your car violently or you can roll off the road.

When can I overtake another vehicle?

Where the centre line marking on the road is a single broken line, vehicles may cross the line to overtake when it is safe to do so. If the centre marking has two lines you must not overtake if the line closest to your vehicle is unbroken. Where arrows are painted on the road, you must only drive in the direction they indicate.

Can I overtake road trains?

Road trains or articulated trucks (which can be as long as the length of 10 cars) can take up to 2.5 kilometres (1.5 miles) to overtake if you’re travelling at 100 kilometres (62 miles) per hour. Allow plenty of room before you try to overtake a road train as they often sway from side to side as you overtake. Be prepared for the wind-rush when passing as it can pull you towards the road train.

What should I do if my vehicle breaks down?

If your vehicle breaks down, do not leave your vehicle, as it will provide you with shade and protection from weather conditions. If you have hired a vehicle, follow company instructions for roadside assistance.

Where can I park up to camp?

In most cases we suggest that you plan to stop overnight on a campsite or holiday park where you can use the facilities and top up your leisure battery. We can advise on these and make advance reservations (additional deposits may be required).

If planning to free camp, be sure to check locally where this is possible and permitted.

What’s it like to drive in Australia?

If you have you ever dreamt about open roads, then Australia may be just the place for you! With wide roads that get quieter the further you venture from the big cities, there are few better places for a motorhome trip.

Distances can be long between towns in the more remote areas so make sure you fill up with fuel whenever you can and take plenty of breaks during your journey.

What about toll roads?

Many of the motorways around major cities in Australia are toll roads, meaning you have to pay a toll to use them. Some are also fully electronic, so you will need to pay with an electronic tag or pass. You can buy a visitor’s pass in advance or pay up to three days after you use the road. E-tags can often be used on motorways throughout Australia, but it is best to check with the local state roads and traffic authority to avoid fines.

Linkt - www.linkt.com.au

Should I take road maps?

Maps are always useful, though Sat Nav is often included with your vehicle or can be rented

There are Accredited Visitor Information Centres (AVIC) located around Australia to provide you with useful tips and to help you get to know the local area in which they are located - www.australia.com.

Do I need to tip?

Tipping is not a part of Australia’s culture. There will not be an expectation to tip in restaurants, bars or taxis although it is common to tip waiters/waitresses in upmarket restaurants 10% of the bill for good service.

If you are on an escorted tour and have found your tour hosts to have been knowledgeable, helpful and have contributed to making your Australian tour an unforgettable experience, then please feel free to show your appreciation with a small gift.