Australia’s vast landscapes, scenic coastal routes, and world-class national parks make it one of the most incredible countries for road travel. Exploring it by RV promises adventure, freedom, and flexibility—but to truly enjoy the ride, careful budgeting is essential. While many assume RV travel is always the cheapest way to explore, the truth is: it depends.
From vehicle hire and fuel to campsite fees and national park permits, the costs of an RV trip in Australia can vary widely depending on your travel style, route, and length of stay. Without a clear budget, small expenses can quickly add up—especially on longer trips or if you’re travelling as a family.
This detailed guide walks you through every cost you might encounter while RVing in Australia. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a one-month lap of the East Coast, or a full lap around the country, you’ll discover how to plan ahead, avoid hidden fees, and travel smart—no matter your budget.
Factors That Influence RV Travel Costs
No two RV trips cost the same—your total spend depends on several key factors. Before you start crunching numbers, it’s important to understand what influences your overall budget. These variables will help shape your cost expectations and guide your planning.
Trip Duration
The length of your journey has a major impact on cost. A weekend escape might only require a few hundred dollars, while a month-long lap around Australia can run into the thousands. Longer trips often benefit from lower daily averages due to better rental rates or fewer relocations, but they also require more fuel, food, and maintenance.
Type of RV
Your choice of vehicle can make or break your budget. A small 2-berth campervan is more fuel-efficient and cheaper to rent, while a 6-berth motorhome with a toilet, shower, and slide-outs costs more per day and consumes more fuel. Off-road 4WD campers are ideal for rugged terrain, but they’re also more expensive to rent and maintain.
Travel Season
Timing matters. Peak travel seasons—like summer holidays (Dec–Jan), Easter, and school breaks—drive up rental costs and campsite fees. Travelling in the shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November) offers better rates and fewer crowds, while winter can mean big savings in the southern states (but fewer open campsites in alpine areas).
Destinations & Route
Fuel and accommodation prices vary depending on where you travel. Popular regions like the East Coast, Margaret River, or Great Ocean Road may have higher prices than remote or inland towns. Conversely, outback travel may include long fuel stretches, higher fuel prices, and limited campground options.
Group Size and Comfort Level
Travelling solo or as a couple is often cheaper than going as a family or group—unless you’re splitting rental and fuel costs. Larger groups may need a bigger RV or multiple vehicles, which increases rental, insurance, and fuel costs. Comfort preferences—like powered sites, frequent dining out, or premium tours—also raise your total expenses.
RV Rental or Ownership Costs
Whether you’re renting or own your RV, your choice has a significant impact on your trip budget. This section breaks down both options to help you estimate costs accurately and decide what suits your travel plans.
For Renters
Renting an RV is the most common choice for travellers doing a short-term holiday or trying van life before committing. Costs vary based on the season, location, and type of vehicle.
Typical Rental Rates in Australia:
Budget campervans (2-berth, basic): $70–$120 per day
Mid-range campervans or 4-berth motorhomes: $130–$180 per day
Luxury motorhomes (5–6 berth, toilet/shower): $200–$300+ per day
In peak season (December to February), prices can increase by 30–50%. Booking several months in advance can help secure lower rates, especially for high-demand locations.
Extra Rental Charges to Budget For:
One-way fees: If picking up and dropping off in different cities (e.g. Melbourne to Cairns)
Mileage caps: Some rentals charge extra if you exceed a daily kilometre limit
Add-ons: Bedding, kitchen kits, camp chairs, Wi-Fi routers, baby seats
Insurance excess reduction: Reduces your out-of-pocket liability (optional, but recommended)
Cleaning or late-return fees
Total Rental Budget Example (7 Days):
For a mid-range 2-berth van with full insurance and basic extras, expect to pay:
$1,200–$1,600 AUD for a week
For Owners
If you own your RV or plan to buy one for regular use, your costs shift from daily rental rates to ongoing ownership expenses.
Key Ownership Costs:
Depreciation: RVs can lose 10–20% of their value per year
Insurance: $600–$1,200+ annually, depending on vehicle type and use
Registration: Varies by state; approx. $600–$1,000/year
Servicing & Repairs: $500–$1,500+ per year
Tyres, brakes, batteries: Wear-and-tear items add up over time
Storage: If you don’t have space at home, storage can cost $1,000+ per year
While ownership is more cost-effective for full-time RVers or frequent travellers, it requires upfront investment and year-round maintenance, even if the vehicle is idle.
Fuel Costs
Fuel is one of the most significant recurring expenses in RV travel—especially in a country as vast as Australia. The more you drive, the more you spend. Understanding fuel usage and planning for refuelling stops is essential for both budgeting and route optimisation.
Fuel Types and Prices in Australia
Most RVs in Australia run on either diesel or unleaded petrol. Diesel engines are common in larger motorhomes due to their torque and fuel efficiency, while smaller vans often run on petrol.
Average prices (as of mid-2025):
Unleaded Petrol (91 RON): $1.85–$2.30 per litre
Diesel: $1.90–$2.40 per litre
Outback or remote areas: Up to $2.80+ per litre
Fuel prices fluctuate weekly and vary by region. Remote areas such as the Northern Territory, Outback WA, and inland Queensland often have significantly higher prices than cities or coastal regions.
Fuel Consumption by RV Type
Fuel economy varies depending on your RV’s size, engine type, load, and how you drive.
Small campervan (e.g. Toyota Hiace): 11–13 L/100km
Medium motorhome (2–4 berth): 14–16 L/100km
Large motorhome (5–6 berth): 17–22 L/100km
4WD off-road camper (e.g. LandCruiser): 14–18 L/100km (higher off-road)
To estimate your fuel budget, divide the total distance of your trip by 100 and multiply by your vehicle’s average litres per 100 km and local fuel price.
Example Fuel Cost Estimates
East Coast trip (Sydney to Cairns – 2,500 km):
Medium motorhome @ 15 L/100km x $2.10/L = ~$790
Full lap of Australia (approx. 15,000 km):
Large motorhome @ 18 L/100km x $2.20/L = ~$5,940
These figures can vary greatly with route, driving habits, and fuel availability.
Fuel-Saving Tips
Drive at steady speeds (90–100 km/h is ideal)
Keep tyres properly inflated
Reduce weight—clear out unnecessary gear
Use apps like Fuel Map Australia or Petrol Spy to find the cheapest fuel nearby
Plan routes with fewer steep climbs and detours when possible
Campsite & Accommodation Costs
While your RV includes a bed, you still need somewhere to park legally and safely each night. Campsite costs across Australia vary widely—from free bush camps to premium beachfront holiday parks with pools and full facilities. Understanding your options helps you align comfort with budget.
Types of Campsites in Australia
Free Campsites
Located in rest areas, bush reserves, or permitted public land
Usually basic or no facilities (may have toilets, but no power or water)
Popular with budget-conscious and self-contained RVers
Examples: rest stops on highways, forestry areas, or rural council sites
Cost: $0
Low-Cost Council or Community Sites
Often managed by local councils, showgrounds, or sports clubs
May include basic toilets, water taps, and level parking
Great value while still close to town amenities
Cost: $5–$20 per night
National Park Campgrounds
Scenic spots inside parks, often surrounded by nature
Facilities range from basic (drop toilets only) to upgraded sites with BBQs, water, or cold showers
Must be booked in advance in popular parks
Entry fees may also apply
Cost: $15–$35 per night (plus vehicle entry in some states)
Powered Sites in Holiday Parks
Private parks like BIG4, Discovery Parks, and family-owned caravan parks
Offer powered sites, water, toilets, showers, laundry, kitchen, and Wi-Fi
Often have pools, playgrounds, and BBQs—ideal for families
Pricing varies by location, amenities, and season
Cost: $30–$80+ per night
Average Nightly Accommodation Budget
Backpackers or budget couples: Mix of free and low-cost = ~$10–$25 avg.
Mid-range travellers: National parks + occasional powered sites = ~$30–$50 avg.
Families or comfort-focused: Mostly holiday parks = ~$60–$90 avg.
Helpful Booking Tools
WikiCamps Australia – map-based listing of paid and free campsites
CamperMate – similar to WikiCamps, includes user reviews
Hipcamp – book unique private properties (farms, nature stays)
BIG4.com.au – holiday park chain with discounts for members
G’day Parks – over 300 affiliated parks with loyalty benefits
Tips to Reduce Campsite Costs
Alternate between free camps and powered sites
Travel during the week or outside school holidays
Use membership discounts (e.g. BIG4, G’day Rewards)
Stay multiple nights—some parks offer discounts on longer stays
Share sites with friends or another RV couple where permitted
Food & Groceries
One of the biggest advantages of RV travel is having your own kitchen on wheels. Cooking your own meals can save hundreds of dollars over the course of a trip—especially compared to eating out regularly. But it still requires smart planning, especially when travelling through remote or tourist-heavy regions.
Cooking in Your RV vs Dining Out
Cooking in your RV:
Most RVs come equipped with a fridge, gas stove, microwave (if on power), and basic utensils.
You can prepare full meals using simple ingredients bought from local supermarkets or produce markets.
Ideal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—especially in remote areas where dining options are limited or expensive.
Eating out:
Cafés: $15–$25 per person
Pubs and mid-range restaurants: $25–$40 per person
Takeaway (fish & chips, burgers, Asian): $12–$20
Special dinners or wine region restaurants: $50–$100+ per person
A mix of self-catering and the occasional restaurant is a good way to balance budget and experience.
Average Weekly Grocery Budget
Budget couple: $80–$120/week
Mid-range couple: $120–$180/week
Family of four: $200–$300/week
Prices vary by region—expect higher costs in remote areas or islands (e.g. Kangaroo Island, Outback NT)
Where to Shop
Woolworths / Coles: Australia’s two major supermarket chains—widely available
ALDI: Cheapest for basics—limited regional coverage
IGA / Foodland: Common in smaller towns and outback areas
Farmers’ Markets: Great for fresh produce, meat, and local specialties
Roadside Stalls: Excellent for regional fruit, eggs, or honey—often cash-only
Tips to Save on Food Costs
Stock up on long-life staples (pasta, rice, lentils, oats)
Plan 3–5 easy meals and rotate ingredients
Use a portable BBQ or cook over fire pits (where permitted)
Carry snacks to avoid impulse buys
Freeze leftovers or pre-cooked meals for remote legs
Buy produce that’s in season and locally grown
By preparing most of your meals and limiting restaurant visits to special occasions, you’ll maintain better nutrition and keep food costs comfortably under control.
Activities, Attractions & Tours
Australia is packed with unforgettable experiences—and not all of them cost money. From free national parks to premium guided tours, your activity budget depends on how you like to explore. With smart planning, you can mix iconic attractions with hidden gems while staying within your financial comfort zone.
Free & Low-Cost Activities
Some of the best adventures in Australia cost absolutely nothing:
Scenic coastal walks and rainforest trails
National park lookouts and waterfalls
Snorkelling at local beaches
Wildlife spotting (kangaroos, emus, dolphins, etc.)
Self-guided heritage trails and town murals
Sunset/sunrise viewing at natural landmarks
Free activities are especially plentiful along the East Coast, in Tasmania, and near major national parks.
National Park Entry Fees
Most national parks in Australia are free to enter, but some charge vehicle or day-use fees, especially in New South Wales, Western Australia, and Tasmania.
Example Fees:
NSW (e.g. Blue Mountains, Kosciuszko): ~$8 per vehicle per day
Tasmania Parks Pass (all parks): ~$40 for 2 months
WA parks pass (e.g. Kalbarri, Karijini): ~$15 per vehicle per day or $120 annual pass
You can often save by buying multi-park or state-wide passes if you plan to visit several.
Paid Tours & Experiences
While many natural attractions are free, iconic Aussie experiences usually come with a cost:
Great Barrier Reef snorkelling or diving: $100–$250
Whale watching: $70–$130
Aboriginal cultural tours: $50–$120
Daintree River cruises, hot air balloons, camel rides, wildlife parks: $40–$300+
Winery or food tours: $80–$200
These premium experiences can eat into your budget quickly—so it’s worth picking a few that align with your interests rather than trying to do everything.
How to Budget Smart for Activities
Choose 1–2 premium tours per week of travel
Look for package deals or combo tickets
Book in advance to lock in prices (especially in peak season)
Use online platforms like RedBalloon or GetYourGuide for discounts
Read reviews on WikiCamps or TripAdvisor before booking
Ask local visitor centres for free or lesser-known local attractions
Road Tolls, Permits & Park Fees
While many roads and attractions in Australia are free to access, there are some costs travellers often overlook—such as tolls in major cities, vehicle access fees, and special permits for protected lands. Factoring these into your RV travel budget helps you avoid surprises and fines.
Road Tolls in Australia
Toll roads are mostly found in large metropolitan areas—particularly Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. These tolls are automatic (no toll booths), so your vehicle must be equipped with an electronic tag or linked to a toll pass account.
Sydney: M2, M4, M5, M7, M8, Cross City Tunnel, Harbour Bridge/Tunnel
Melbourne: CityLink, EastLink
Brisbane: Gateway Bridge, Logan Motorway, Clem7 Tunnel
How to Pay for Tolls in a Rental RV:
Most rental companies include toll pass billing services.
Tolls + admin fees are usually charged to your card after the trip.
Confirm with the provider to avoid unpaid toll penalties.
If You Own an RV:
Sign up for a toll pass (e.g. Linkt, e-TAG) for your state
Top up online or use auto-pay to stay compliant
National Park Vehicle Access Fees
In some states, you must pay to enter or drive through national parks:
NSW: Per-vehicle day rates (e.g. $8 at Ku-ring-gai Chase, $12 at Royal NP)
Tasmania: Parks Pass required ($40 for 2 months, or $90 annual family pass)
WA: $15 per vehicle per park, or $120 for an all-parks annual pass
VIC, SA, QLD, NT: Most parks are free to enter, but may charge for camping
Always check each state’s parks website before entering.
Aboriginal Land & 4WD Permits
Travelling through Indigenous-owned lands or remote 4WD tracks (e.g. parts of the NT, WA, or Cape York in QLD) may require a travel permit.
Permit cost: typically $10–$50
Applications often need to be submitted in advance
Some routes (e.g. Gibb River Road, Arnhem Land) may have seasonal restrictions
Check with local land councils or Northern Land Council (www.nlc.org.au) and state park websites for updates.
Vehicle Ferries
If your trip includes an island crossing, budget for ferry fees:
Spirit of Tasmania (VIC–TAS): ~$500–$800 return (with vehicle)
Kangaroo Island Ferry (SA): ~$200–$400 return (vehicle + passengers)
Fraser Island Barge (QLD): ~$130–$200 return
Ferry rates depend on vehicle size and passenger count. Book early in peak season.
Internet, Power & Utilities
Staying connected and powered on the road is important—whether you’re working remotely, keeping in touch with family, or just watching Netflix at night. While many RVs are self-contained to a degree, there are still costs associated with internet access, power usage, gas, and everyday utilities.
Internet & Mobile Coverage
Most travellers rely on mobile data for internet access. Australia’s coverage is generally good in towns and along highways, but patchy in remote or inland areas.
Main Providers:
Telstra: Best national coverage, especially in remote and regional areas
Optus & Vodafone: Cheaper, but with more limited rural coverage
Prepaid SIMs: Available at supermarkets or convenience stores; good for short trips
Data cost: $20–$60/month depending on provider and plan (10GB–60GB)
For regular internet use (emails, maps, social media), a SIM-only plan or portable Wi-Fi hotspot is enough. Heavy users may want a data-heavy plan or dual-SIM device.
Power & Electricity
If you stay at powered sites, you’ll be charged a nightly fee for electricity—typically included in your campsite rate.
Powered site costs: $30–$80 per night (depends on park and season)
Unpowered sites: $0–$30 per night (no electricity; suitable for self-contained RVs)
To save money and travel off-grid, many RVers invest in:
Solar panels: Great for charging batteries and small appliances
Dual battery systems or lithium setups
Inverters: Convert 12V to 240V power (for laptops, chargers, etc.)
Gas Bottle Refills
Most RV kitchens and hot water systems run on LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). You’ll need to refill gas bottles regularly, depending on use.
9kg gas bottle refill: ~$25–$40
Swap-and-go stations: Widely available at Bunnings, petrol stations, hardware stores
Refill frequency: Every 7–14 days for average cooking + hot water use
Water Refills & Dump Points
Freshwater is usually free to refill at:
Campgrounds
RV-friendly towns
Roadside rest stops
Visitor centres
Dump points for greywater and toilet cassette emptying are also widespread—listed on apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate.
Cost: Free to $5 in most places
Tip: Always travel with a full tank and refill whenever possible in remote areas
Laundry
Coin-operated machines at caravan parks and laundromats
Average cost: $4–$6 per wash, $2–$4 per dry
Air-drying on portable clotheslines saves money and energy
Emergency & Contingency Fund
Even with the most meticulous planning, things can go wrong on the road—flat tyres, unexpected medical issues, mechanical failures, or sudden changes in weather that delay travel. That’s why it’s vital to set aside an emergency buffer in your RV budget.
Why an Emergency Fund Is Essential
RV travel involves both a moving vehicle and your living space—so breakdowns or damage affect your mobility and your accommodation. In remote parts of Australia, help may be hours or days away and out-of-pocket expenses can quickly add up.
Unexpected costs may include:
Towing fees (especially in remote areas: $300–$1,500+)
Urgent mechanical repairs or part replacements
Medical supplies or doctor visits
Extra nights in accommodation while the RV is repaired
Missed ferry bookings, tours, or campsite reservations
Lost or stolen items (phones, wallets, equipment)
How Much Should You Set Aside?
A good rule of thumb is to allocate 10%–15% of your total trip budget as an emergency buffer. For example:
$2,000 trip = $200–$300 contingency
$5,000 trip = $500–$750 contingency
$10,000+ extended trip = $1,000–$1,500 reserved
If you’re travelling through remote regions like the Red Centre, Cape York, or Outback WA, increase your contingency fund accordingly.
Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
For international tourists or long-distance trips, consider travel insurance that covers:
Vehicle hire excess
Trip cancellation or interruption
Medical emergencies
Lost or stolen property
Personal liability
Australian citizens with private RVs may not need travel insurance, but roadside assistance upgrades, mechanical breakdown insurance, and contents insurance are smart add-ons.
Credit Card Safety Net
Carry a low-interest or backup credit card as a financial fallback. Use it only in emergencies—like major repairs, accident recovery, or extended accommodation during a delay.
Realistic Sample Budgets (Per Week)
To help you visualise the true cost of RV travel in Australia, here are sample weekly budgets for different traveller types. These estimates include typical expenses like fuel, accommodation, food, and a few activities. Your actual costs will vary based on location, season, and personal preferences—but these examples offer a solid baseline.
Backpacker or Budget Couple (~$450–$600/week)
Rental (budget campervan or relocation deal): $150–$250
Fuel (1,000 km/week): $150–$180
Free & low-cost camping: $0–$50
Groceries & minimal dining out: $100–$120
Activities (mostly free): $30–$50
Utilities & extras: $20–$30
Tip: Mix free camps with the occasional paid site, cook every meal, and use national park trails instead of guided tours.
Mid-Range Couple (~$800–$1,200/week)
Rental (mid-range van with insurance): $400–$600
Fuel (1,000–1,500 km/week): $180–$250
Campsites (mix of powered and national park): $120–$200
Groceries + 1–2 café meals: $120–$160
Activities/tours (1 paid per week): $100–$150
Gas, laundry, internet, other: $40–$70
Tip: Perfect for couples looking to balance comfort with value—enjoying scenic drives and some premium experiences without over-spending.
Family of Four (~$1,200–$1,800/week)
Rental (5–6 berth motorhome): $700–$1,000
Fuel (1,200–1,500 km/week): $220–$300
Holiday park sites with facilities: $250–$350
Groceries + occasional dining out: $250–$300
Activities (zoos, boat tours, cultural): $150–$250
Gas, laundry, utilities, misc.: $80–$100
Tip: Book holiday parks with kid-friendly amenities, use meal planning to reduce food waste, and look for family passes at attractions.
Long-Term Traveller (Monthly Average: $2,500–$3,500)
For grey nomads, digital nomads, or full-time road trippers who own their RV:
No rental cost
Fuel-efficient route planning
Mostly free or discounted long-stay campsites
Moderate grocery and occasional café spending
Mix of free nature experiences and periodic paid tours
Tip: Leverage memberships, solar power, and house-sitting gigs to keep monthly costs low.
Cost-Saving Tips for RV Travel in Australia
RV travel can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. With a bit of planning and a few strategic choices, you can enjoy a long and memorable adventure without blowing your budget. Here are some tried-and-tested tips to stretch your dollars further on the road.
Travel in Shoulder or Off-Peak Seasons
Avoid December–January and school holidays when prices spike for rentals, campsites, and tours.
Best budget-friendly months: March–May and September–November.
You’ll get better rates, fewer crowds, and more campsite availability.
Use Free and Low-Cost Campsites
Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate show free rest areas, bush camps, and low-cost council sites.
Alternate free nights with paid holiday parks to balance savings and amenities.
Join G’Day Parks or BIG4 loyalty programs for discounts on paid sites.
Cook Most of Your Meals
Stock up at major supermarkets and avoid small-town tourist markups.
Use local markets and roadside stalls for fresh, cheap produce.
Batch cook meals and use leftovers to save time and money.
Avoid excessive takeaway—limit it to special outings.
Monitor Fuel Prices and Drive Smart
Download Fuel Map Australia or Petrol Spy to find the cheapest nearby stations.
Fill up in bigger towns where fuel is generally cheaper.
Maintain steady speeds, avoid idling, and reduce weight in your vehicle.
Inflate tyres to optimal pressure to improve fuel economy.
Limit Paid Tours to One or Two Must-Dos
Choose experiences that are unique to a region (e.g. Great Barrier Reef, Aboriginal cultural tours).
Look for combo deals or off-peak rates online (e.g. RedBalloon, Groupon).
Use free walking tours, scenic lookouts, or public beaches to fill in non-tour days.
Join RV Communities and Facebook Groups
Communities like Full Time RV Australia, Grey Nomads, or Free Camping Australia often share deals, campsite info, and real-time travel tips.
You may even find house-sitting, driveway parking, or work-for-accommodation opportunities through these networks.
Invest in Solar and Off-Grid Capability
Installing solar panels and a dual battery setup lets you camp off-grid for days at a time.
This reduces your need for powered sites and gives you more flexibility in choosing free camps.
Long-term, it pays for itself in campsite savings.
Stay Longer in One Place
Many campgrounds and parks offer discounted weekly or multi-night rates.
Slowing down your travel pace also reduces fuel costs and gives you time to explore local areas more deeply.
Conclusion
Budgeting for an RV trip in Australia doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be realistic. With the sheer size of the country, the diversity of landscapes, and the wide variation in fuel, campsite, and activity costs, having a clear plan ensures you can enjoy your journey without financial stress.
Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring, a couple seeking comfort, or a family on an extended road trip, RV travel offers a lifestyle that’s flexible, immersive, and cost-controllable—if you prepare wisely. Knowing your expected expenses ahead of time helps you stretch your travel further and prioritise what matters most: freedom, nature, and unforgettable memories.
Use the breakdowns in this guide as a starting point, adjust for your preferences and travel style, and always leave room for unexpected detours (both literal and financial). With a well-structured budget and a bit of creativity, there’s no better way to explore Australia than by home-on-wheels.
