Gone are the days when caravanning was just for the grey nomads!.

These days, young Aussies – and their families – are packing up and hitting the road for a fresh take on exploring our beautiful country. 

Whether it’s sun-soaked coastal highways or epic trips through Australia’s rugged outback, caravan travel is the ultimate way to live freely, soak in the scenery and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Before you start chasing sunsets, let’s get you geared up for an unforgettable adventure. 

We’ve rounded up the must-know tips to keep your trip smooth, fun, and stress-free so you can focus on the best part: the journey.

Pack Like a Pro (Or at Least Try!)

You don’t need to bring your whole wardrobe – just the essentials. A good mix of comfy clothes for lounging around and sturdy gear for outdoor adventures is key. 

Make sure to include:

• Layers (temperatures can drop quickly at night)
• A solid pair of hiking boots or trainers
• Rain jacket (because, well, unpredictable weather)
• A swimsuit for spontaneous beach or lake stops

Oh, and don’t forget to pack a few comfort items like a cosy blanket or a good book for those chill nights by the fire.

Tunes, Tech & TikTok Moments

Sure, you’re out to unplug and unwind, but we all know you’ll need your tech for some epic content creation. A portable charger is a must for keeping your devices powered. 

It’s also handy to have:

• A Bluetooth speaker to blast road trip anthems around the campfire
• Download your maps offline (trust us, there’s no 5G in the middle of nowhere)
• Capture those “sunset over the mountains” vibes with your camera or smartphone—#WanderlustGoals
• A killer playlist for those long drives—curate one that matches the vibe of your adventure.
• Bluetooth speaker to blast your tunes around the campfire

Master the Open Road (and Look Cool Doing It)

Freedom’s calling, but don’t forget the essentials:

• Always keep an eye on fuel stops—because running out of gas in the outback? That’s no one’s idea of fun.
• Stock up on clean drinking water for your adventures. Hydration = survival!
• Have a route plan but be flexible. The coolest spots are often the ones you stumble upon by accident.

Pro-tip: Have a “Plan B” campsite. Sometimes you’ll find a spot too busy, so knowing a backup location means less stress, more fun.

Budget-Savvy and Loving It 

Adventuring on a budget? Too easy! Being a young caravanner doesn’t mean you need to blow through your savings. Save cash by cooking your meals in the caravan (trust us, cooking out of your tiny home can be a blast!). 

Save some cash with these simple tips:

• Cook your meals in the van like the travel chef you are. One-pot wonders like chilli or pasta are your new best friends.
• Hit up local markets for fresh, cheap produce. Nothing like munching on a tropical fruit haul from a local farmer.
• Freedom camp at designated free campsites – it’s cheap and you’ll meet some rad fellow adventurers.

TIP: Download apps like WikiCamps to help you find those budget-friendly camping spots across Australia.

Earn As You Go 

Want to keep your travel budget full without breaking a sweat? Consider working on the road.

Many young adventurers across Australia take on casual jobs, whether it’s picking fruit, working in restaurants or cafes or even house and pet-sitting. 

Make Friends, Not Just Memories 

One of the coolest things about being a young caravanner is meeting fellow travellers along the way. 

Caravan parks and campsites are great for striking up a chat with others living the van life. 

Swapping stories, tips, and even dinner recipes can make your trip more memorable. Don’t be shy!

Leave No Trace, But Take All the Pics 

While it’s all fun and games, respect the land. Always clean up your site, recycle, and take care of nature. 

Don’t be that camper who leaves rubbish behind; clean up after yourself, properly dispose of waste, and avoid leaving behind any trash. Let’s keep these beautiful places pristine for future adventures.

Snap photos of those epic landscapes, but make sure to leave the site looking as good as when you found it. 

Epic Campfire Vibes 

What’s better than chilling by the fire under the stars? Nothing. Bring along marshmallows for roasting, tell spooky stories and enjoy some time off the grid.

Here’s how to keep your fire fun and your campsite safe:

• Choose the right spot: Set up your campfire in a cleared area away from tents, trees, and anything flammable. Follow local regulations about fire pits and designated camping areas.
• Build it right: Start with kindling, then add larger logs as needed. Keep your fire manageable; you’re not trying to set the forest ablaze. 
• Never leave it unattended: It’s tempting to wander off, but always keep an eye on your fire. Have a bucket of water or sand nearby to put it out quickly if needed.
• Extinguish thoroughly: When you’re done, douse the fire with water and stir the ashes until they’re cool to the touch. It’s not out until it’s cold. 

Take Time to Unplug

It’s easy to get wrapped up in taking photos for the ‘Gram, but don’t forget to live in the moment. 

Some of the most special parts of caravan life come when you’re truly immersed in your surroundings – be it watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee or hiking through a national park without the distraction of notifications.

Safety First

While it’s all about adventure, make sure you stay safe:

• Always let someone know your travel plans and expected arrival times.
• Carry a first aid kit and make sure it’s stocked.
• Be cautious when parking in remote areas – stick to well-travelled routes and places with good reviews.