The Ultimate Guide to Hiring an RV and Traveling Around Australia with Kids: Tips from Summer Wanderlust
Australia is a dream destination for families, and what better way to explore this beautiful country than by hitting the open road in an RV? Traveling in an RV with kids offers freedom, flexibility, and the perfect way to experience the wonders of Australia, from its stunning beaches to outback adventures. Whether you’re cruising along the Great Ocean Road or exploring the Red Centre, an RV road trip can be an adventure of a lifetime.
If you’re considering an RV holiday with the family, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about hiring an RV and making your family road trip across Australia unforgettable, with plenty of Summer Wanderlust tips along the way
- Why Choose an RV for Family Travel in Australia?
Why It’s Great for Families: Hiring an RV for your family trip across Australia is one of the most convenient, budget-friendly, and adventurous ways to explore the country. It gives you the freedom to choose your route, make impromptu stops, and experience Australia at your own pace, without being tied to fixed accommodation. Plus, your kids will love the novelty of staying in a mobile home while enjoying stunning views wherever you go!
Summer Wanderlust Tip: An RV provides the perfect solution for families with young children. You’ll have everything you need right on hand, kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms, which means fewer stops and more time spent exploring. - How to Choose the Right RV for Your Family
What to Consider: When choosing an RV for your family trip around Australia, there are a few key factors to consider:
Size: Make sure the RV is large enough to accommodate your family comfortably. Most RVs come in two-berth, four-berth, and six-berth options, depending on the size of your family.
Amenities: Look for RVs that offer full kitchens, bathrooms, and air conditioning. Some even have TVs and Wi-Fi to keep kids entertained during longer drives.
Driveability: Ensure the RV is easy to drive, especially if you’re not used to larger vehicles. Look for one that’s automatic if you’re not familiar with manual transmissions.
Storage: Space for luggage, toys, and snacks is essential for a smooth family trip.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Choose a modern RV with a well-maintained engine. It might cost a little more, but it will ensure a smoother journey, fewer breakdowns, and a more comfortable ride for everyone.
- Planning Your Route Around Australia
The Freedom of the Open Road: One of the best things about traveling in an RV is the ability to create your own itinerary. However, a little planning will go a long way in ensuring you make the most of your time on the road. Here are a few iconic routes to consider:
The Great Ocean Road (Victoria): A scenic drive with amazing beaches, wildlife, and natural wonders like the Twelve Apostles.
The Red Centre (Northern Territory): Discover the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta, and experience the outback.
East Coast (Queensland to New South Wales): Gorgeous beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, and family-friendly towns like Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: If you have younger kids, consider a shorter route with plenty of rest stops and activities. Plan for flexibility, as family road trips rarely go as expected, and it’s always best to have options for extra playtime or downtime.
- What to Pack for Your RV Adventure
Packing Essentials for Families: When packing for an RV road trip with kids, you’ll need to be organized and make sure you have everything you might need. Here’s a checklist of essentials:
Clothing: Pack comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for everyone. Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses) is a must, as well as swimwear for those beach stops.
Snacks & Drinks: Stock up on healthy snacks like fruit, crackers, and nuts for the journey. Don’t forget water and drinks to keep everyone hydrated.
Toys & Entertainment: Bring along favorite books, toys, and games to keep the kids occupied during long drives. Consider downloading a few family-friendly shows or movies to watch on the RV’s TV or tablet.
Safety Gear: Always pack a first aid kit, insect repellent, and any medications your family might need.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Think about what will make the journey easier on both the kids and yourself. Portable chargers, wet wipes, and a cooler for food and drinks will make everything a lot smoother.
- Where to Stay: RV Parks and Campsites
What to Expect: Australia has an abundance of campgrounds and RV parks that cater to families traveling with kids. Many of these parks are equipped with playgrounds, BBQ areas, and swimming pools, making them perfect for letting the kids burn off some energy after a day on the road. Some parks even have animal encounters, like kangaroo feeding, which is a great way for kids to learn about Australia’s wildlife.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Book your RV park stays in advance, especially during peak seasons like school holidays. Popular parks tend to get fully booked, and having reservations will ensure you have a spot when you arrive. - Family-Friendly Activities Along the Way
Must-Do Activities for Kids: Australia offers plenty of family-friendly activities that can be easily added to your road trip itinerary:
Wildlife Encounters: Visit places like Australia Zoo (Queensland), Koala Sanctuary (Brisbane), or Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas to meet native animals.
Beaches and Water Fun: Many beaches in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia are perfect for kids, offering calm, shallow waters and lots of sandcastle-building opportunities.
National Parks: Explore Kakadu National Park (NT) or Grampians National Park (Victoria) to discover hiking trails, waterfalls, and nature walks that are great for kids to run around and explore.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Factor in a daily activity that’s kid-friendly, whether it’s a short hike, a stop at a local playground, or a visit to a nearby museum, to keep everyone entertained and break up long driving days.
- Dealing with Long Drives and Boredom
Keeping the Kids Entertained: Long drives can be challenging, especially for younger children. Here are a few tips to help keep the peace and make the journey more enjoyable for everyone:
Road Trip Games: Play classic games like I Spy, 20 Questions, or create a travel bingo with things you might see along the way (kangaroos, lighthouses, etc.).
Audiobooks & Music: Download some family-friendly audiobooks or create a road trip playlist filled with your kid’s favorite tunes.
Frequent Stops: Plan for regular pit stops to let the kids stretch their legs, visit a local attraction, or enjoy a picnic by the side of the road.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Download a road trip app for your kids to track your journey and keep them engaged with interactive maps and fun facts about where you’re going.
- Safety and Road Travel Tips
Stay Safe on the Road: Traveling with kids means you’ll need to take extra care to ensure everyone stays safe on the road. Here are a few key safety tips:
Always wear seat belts and ensure child car seats are properly installed.
Familiarize yourself with road rules in Australia (especially for speed limits and wildlife crossings).
Keep your RV well-maintained and always have a roadside assistance number on hand in case of emergencies.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Have a backup plan for emergency situations, and keep the RV manual handy for quick reference in case you need to troubleshoot anything while on the road.
- Embrace the Adventure
The beauty of traveling in an RV with your family is the opportunity to embrace spontaneity. Whether you stumble upon a hidden beach, discover a quirky local town, or decide to spend an extra night under the stars, the freedom is all yours!
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Sometimes, the best parts of your trip will be the unexpected moments, those detours that lead to something amazing. Allow yourself to go off the beaten path and enjoy the journey!
Traveling around Australia in an RV with kids is a magical experience that blends freedom, adventure, and togetherness. With the right planning, the right RV, and a sense of curiosity, you and your family can explore one of the world’s most diverse and stunning countries at your own pace. So grab the keys, pack up, and let the Aussie adventure begin!
Your Summer Wanderlust family road trip is waiting, Australia’s wide-open spaces, vibrant landscapes, and unique wildlife are ready to be explored!
