Small vs Large RVs for Australian Road Trips: Pros & Cons

A compact campervan beside a large motorhome in the Australian outback, visually comparing RV size and travel comfort.

Choosing the right RV size can make or break your road trip across Australia. Whether you’re cruising along the Great Ocean Road, camping in remote parts of the Outback, or navigating the lush coastlines of Queensland, the type of RV you choose will affect everything—from comfort and mobility to your budget and campsite options.

In Australia, RVs range from compact campervans and pop-tops to full-sized motorhomes and large caravans with all the bells and whistles. While smaller RVs offer freedom and flexibility, larger models provide the kind of comfort that makes you feel at home, even when you’re kilometres from the nearest town.

The decision between a small and large RV isn’t just about size—it’s about lifestyle. Do you value quick getaways, stealth camping, and lower fuel costs? Or are you planning an extended journey with space to cook, sleep, and unwind comfortably?

This article compares small and large RVs in the Australian context, breaking down their pros and cons, ideal use cases, and terrain suitability. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a grey nomad, or a family of four, you’ll find clear guidance to help you choose the right rig for your journey.

What Defines a Small vs Large RV in Australia?

In the Australian RV world, the size of your vehicle greatly influences where you can go, how you travel, and what level of comfort you can expect on the road. While there’s no fixed industry definition, RVs are generally categorised by length, weight, and onboard facilities.

Small RVs

Small RVs typically include campervans, pop-top vans, and compact Class B motorhomes. These vehicles are usually under 6 metres in length and can be driven on a standard car licence. They are designed for ease of use, manoeuvrability, and efficiency.

Common features of small RVs:

  • Sleeping space for 1–2 people

  • Basic cooking facilities (portable stove, fridge)

  • Limited or no internal toilet/shower

  • Lower internal height, may require crouching

  • Better suited for short trips, solo travellers, or couples

Small RVs are often favoured by younger travellers, digital nomads, and tourists looking for agile transport to explore both urban and remote areas.

Large RVs

Large RVs include full-size motorhomes (Class C), fifth-wheelers, and large caravans. These rigs are typically over 6 metres in length and can be up to 9–10 metres long, depending on the model. They often require careful handling and may need more experience behind the wheel.

Common features of large RVs:

  • Sleeping capacity for 3–6 people

  • Full kitchen with stove, oven, and large fridge

  • Internal toilet and shower, often fully self-contained

  • Dedicated lounge and dining area

  • Greater water, waste, and power storage

Large RVs are ideal for families, grey nomads, or those planning extended travel where comfort, space, and facilities matter more than mobility.

Understanding these core differences is the first step in choosing the best RV for your Australian road trip. In the next sections, we’ll dive deeper into the unique advantages and drawbacks of each size class.

Pros of Small RVs for Australian Travel

Small RVs have become increasingly popular among Australian travellers—and for good reason. Their compact size offers a level of flexibility and simplicity that’s hard to match, especially for short trips, solo adventurers, or couples exploring varied terrain.

1. Easier to Drive and Park

Small RVs handle more like a regular car than a truck. This makes them ideal for navigating narrow coastal roads, busy town centres, and tight campground spots. You’ll have less stress in parking lots, fuel stations, and ferry crossings.

2. Better Fuel Efficiency

Lighter and smaller vehicles consume significantly less fuel, which can add up to major savings—especially on long road trips across vast Australian distances. This also makes them a more environmentally conscious choice.

3. Lower Rental and Maintenance Costs

Whether you’re hiring or buying, small RVs generally come at a lower price point. Registration, insurance, servicing, and repair costs are all typically cheaper, making them a great option for budget-conscious travellers.

4. Access to More Remote Locations

Australia’s rugged backcountry and hidden beachside campsites often have size restrictions. Small RVs can reach places that large rigs simply can’t—allowing more spontaneous and off-grid adventures.

5. Quicker Setup and Pack-Down

With fewer moving parts and simpler layouts, small RVs are quick to set up at camp and easy to pack up when it’s time to move on. This suits travellers who prefer fast-paced itineraries or minimal fuss on the road.

For many Australians and overseas visitors alike, these benefits make small RVs an attractive option, especially for those new to RV travel or looking to keep things light, mobile, and affordable.

Cons of Small RVs

While small RVs offer agility and affordability, they do come with limitations—especially when it comes to comfort, capacity, and onboard amenities. Understanding these drawbacks is essential to avoid surprises on the road, particularly if you’re planning longer trips or travelling with others.

1. Limited Living and Storage Space

One of the biggest challenges with small RVs is space. There’s typically only enough room for two people to sleep and move around. Storage is minimal, meaning you’ll need to pack light and be strategic with what you bring. Clothes, food, outdoor gear, and essentials must all fit into compact compartments.

2. Less Comfortable for Long-Term Travel

For weekend getaways or short breaks, small RVs work well. But if you’re spending weeks or months on the road, the lack of space can quickly become tiresome. There’s limited room to cook, stretch out, or escape bad weather—especially if you’re confined indoors.

3. Fewer Facilities

Many compact RVs do not have built-in bathrooms. This means relying on public toilets, campgrounds, or portable options. Kitchens, if included, are often basic with just a single burner and small fridge. For travellers who value convenience and privacy, this can be a dealbreaker.

4. Can Feel Cramped with Multiple People

Travelling with a partner, friend, or pet? Be prepared to compromise. Small RVs aren’t designed for more than two people, and even that can feel tight depending on the layout. Privacy is limited, and personal space may be hard to come by during extended stays.

5. Limited Self-Containment

Without full bathroom facilities or large water tanks, small RVs may not qualify as fully self-contained. This can limit your access to certain free campsites across Australia, particularly in regions that require self-contained vehicles for overnight stays.

While small RVs excel in flexibility and ease of travel, they’re best suited for those who can live minimally, travel light, and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of comfort for mobility.

Pros of Large RVs for Australian Travel

Large RVs offer a home-away-from-home experience that appeals to long-term travellers, families, and anyone seeking maximum comfort on the road. With their generous space and advanced features, these vehicles transform road trips into luxurious journeys—especially in a country as vast and varied as Australia.

1. Spacious Interiors for Comfortable Living

Large RVs typically include separate areas for sleeping, cooking, dining, and lounging. You can stand up fully, walk around freely, and even host guests if needed. For travellers spending weeks or months on the road, this added space makes a big difference in daily comfort and mental wellbeing.

2. Fully Equipped with Amenities

Most large RVs are fully self-contained, featuring a bathroom with a shower and toilet, a full kitchen with a gas stove and microwave, and ample refrigeration. Many also come with solar panels, water tanks, greywater systems, and air conditioning—making them ideal for free camping and off-grid travel.

3. Ideal for Families and Groups

With multiple sleeping zones, dining tables that convert into beds, and ample interior room, large RVs easily accommodate families or groups of 3–6 people. Everyone has their space, and there’s less need to compromise on sleeping arrangements or personal belongings.

4. More Storage for Long Trips

Whether it’s camping chairs, fishing gear, extra clothing, or large grocery hauls, storage is rarely an issue in a large RV. You’ll find overhead lockers, external storage bays, under-bed compartments, and more—enough to support extended travel without feeling cluttered.

5. Better for All-Weather Travel

If rain, heat, or cold keeps you indoors, a large RV provides the comfort you need to continue enjoying your trip. With larger windows, insulated walls, and in some cases, slide-out sections, the interior space remains inviting and practical regardless of the weather outside.

For those who treat RV travel as a lifestyle rather than just a holiday, the features and space offered by larger rigs can transform the experience entirely—bringing a sense of home, even in the middle of nowhere.

Cons of Large RVs

While large RVs deliver unparalleled comfort and capability, they come with a range of challenges that can complicate travel—particularly for those new to RVing or planning to explore Australia’s more remote and rugged routes.

1. Harder to Drive and Park

Maneuvering a large RV can be intimidating, especially on winding coastal roads, in narrow caravan parks, or in tight urban areas. Reversing, turning, and parking all require extra space and attention. Some larger units may require a light rigid (LR) licence depending on weight.

2. Higher Fuel Consumption

Due to their size and weight, large RVs burn significantly more fuel than smaller vehicles. Over long trips, especially across Australia’s vast distances, this can become a major cost consideration.

3. Higher Upfront and Ongoing Costs

Whether you’re hiring or purchasing, large RVs are more expensive. Insurance premiums, registration, servicing, and repairs are all higher than for small RVs. You may also need to factor in storage costs if you’re not using the vehicle full-time.

4. Limited Access to Remote or Compact Sites

Some campsites in national parks, beach reserves, or mountainous regions are not suitable for large RVs. Steep gradients, narrow tracks, low-hanging branches, and tight turns can restrict access or increase the risk of damage.

5. Parking and Storage Issues at Home

When not in use, storing a large RV can be problematic. Many suburban driveways can’t accommodate vehicles over 7 metres, and street parking may be restricted by council regulations.

Large RVs are best suited to travellers who prioritise comfort, plan to stay longer at each destination, and don’t mind the trade-offs in mobility and cost. For some, they offer everything needed to travel full-time across Australia. For others, they may feel oversized and cumbersome.

Choosing Based on Your Travel Style and Needs

The best RV size isn’t just about specs—it’s about how you want to travel across Australia. Your preferences, lifestyle, and travel goals should drive your decision. Here’s how to assess which type of RV suits you best:

Short Trips vs Long-Term Travel

  • Short weekend getaways or week-long holidays favour smaller RVs. They’re easy to pack, drive, and park—and you won’t mind the compact living for a few days.

  • Longer journeys across states or around the country call for larger rigs. You’ll appreciate the added comfort, storage, and onboard facilities over time.

Solo or Couple vs Family Travel

  • Solo travellers or couples often find small campervans or compact motorhomes perfectly adequate.

  • Families or groups benefit from the extra sleeping zones, kitchen space, and private bathroom facilities in larger RVs. It reduces conflict and increases travel comfort.

Off-Grid vs Holiday Park Travel

  • If your plan is to free camp in national parks or on Crown land, a smaller, nimbler RV may give you access to more spots—especially in remote areas with narrow tracks.

  • If you prefer powered sites at holiday parks with full amenities, a large RV is an excellent choice since parking, power, and water access are rarely an issue.

Minimalist vs Home Comforts

  • Travellers seeking a minimalist, flexible, and mobile experience often prefer smaller RVs. These are great for city-hopping, coastal drives, or flexible itineraries.

  • Those looking for creature comforts, space, and a stable routine will gravitate toward larger RVs with full setups—especially retirees or digital nomads living on the road.

Budget-Conscious vs Premium Experience

  • Small RVs keep costs low across the board: fuel, insurance, campsite fees, and maintenance.

  • Large RVs offer a premium road lifestyle, ideal for those willing to invest more for comfort and convenience.

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The ideal RV size depends on how you like to travel, how often, and with whom. A clear understanding of your travel style helps ensure your road trip is enjoyable, comfortable, and stress-free.

Terrain and Destination Considerations in Australia

Australia’s vast and varied landscape plays a significant role in determining which RV size is most practical. From tight mountain passes to wide-open desert highways, different terrains and destinations can favour either small or large RVs.

Small RVs: Better for Tight and Remote Access

Smaller RVs are well-suited for locations where space is limited, roads are narrow, or conditions demand more agility. Destinations that are ideal for small RVs include:

  • Tasmania’s West Coast – winding roads and compact campsites

  • Blue Mountains (NSW) – steep gradients and limited parking

  • Daintree Rainforest (QLD) – tight access roads and eco-limited zones

  • Great Ocean Road (VIC) – easy to pull into scenic lookouts and roadside rest stops

  • Kangaroo Island (SA) – ferry-friendly size and simple road layout

Many national parks and coastal reserves also have entry or parking restrictions for vehicles over 7 metres. Small RVs allow access to more basic or off-grid sites that require self-sufficiency and a light footprint.

Large RVs: Best for Long, Open Stretches

If your road trip involves vast distances, sealed highways, and long-term stays at each stop, a large RV becomes a major asset. Suitable areas include:

  • Nullarbor Plain – long distances between stops with plenty of space

  • Western Australia’s Coral Coast – wide roads, holiday parks, and long stays

  • Outback NT and SA – large free campgrounds and broad highway access

  • Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast – ample powered parks and space for bigger rigs

  • Red Centre (Alice Springs to Uluru) – designed for full setups with solar and water capacity

Larger RVs are welcomed at most big holiday parks, showgrounds, and tourist-focused campgrounds. However, it’s important to check road conditions, bridge limits, and park rules before heading into unfamiliar regions.

Local Laws and Driving Restrictions

  • Some remote councils may restrict large vehicles or require permits for access.

  • Bridge height and weight limits may prevent large RVs from using certain routes.

  • Urban parking laws in cities like Sydney or Melbourne may restrict where large RVs can park or stay overnight.

Choosing the right RV size also means understanding where you want to go and how you’ll get there. Australia offers endless possibilities—but not all routes suit all rigs.

Rental vs Ownership: Does Size Matter More?

Whether you’re hiring an RV for a short adventure or considering buying one for the long haul, the decision between small and large rigs plays out differently depending on your purpose, budget, and long-term travel plans.

Renting: Flexibility and Budget Drive the Choice

If you’re renting an RV in Australia—whether for a weekend getaway or a month-long exploration—size impacts everything from cost to availability.

Small RVs for Hire:

  • Easier to find and book through major providers like JUCY, Travellers Autobarn, and Spaceships

  • Daily rental rates are significantly cheaper

  • Lower fuel costs and fewer campsite restrictions

  • Great for first-timers or international tourists with standard driving licences

Large RVs for Hire:

  • Available through companies like Apollo, Britz, Maui, and Let’s Go Motorhomes

  • Higher rental fees, insurance excesses, and fuel usage

  • Ideal for families or long-distance, multi-week trips

  • Often require more experience and confidence behind the wheel

Buying: A Long-Term Investment

If you’re looking to own an RV, size takes on even more weight in terms of cost, maintenance, and usability.

Small RV Ownership:

  • Lower upfront cost and registration fees

  • Can often be parked at home without special arrangements

  • Less depreciation over short-term ownership

  • Suitable for casual travellers who prefer short, frequent getaways

Large RV Ownership:

  • High initial purchase price and ongoing expenses

  • Requires off-site storage if you live in suburban or metro areas

  • More customisation and self-containment options

  • Better suited to full-time travellers, grey nomads, or those doing the Big Lap

Towing and Licensing Considerations

  • Most small RVs (campervans and light caravans) can be driven with a standard Class C licence

  • Some large motorhomes and fifth-wheelers may require an LR (Light Rigid) or even MR (Medium Rigid) licence depending on weight

  • Towing capacity of your existing vehicle also limits what you can buy if considering a large caravan

Ultimately, your choice to rent or buy—and the size of vehicle you choose—should reflect how often you’ll travel, where you’ll go, and how much space and convenience you truly need.

Final Verdict: Which RV Size Suits Aussie Road Trippers Best?

There’s no universal answer to whether a small or large RV is better—it all depends on your travel goals, lifestyle preferences, and the kind of experiences you’re chasing across Australia. Both vehicle types come with distinct advantages and limitations, and the “right” choice is always personal.

Choose a Small RV if:

  • You’re travelling solo or as a couple

  • You plan to explore tight or remote areas with narrow access roads

  • Your budget is limited and fuel efficiency matters

  • You prefer flexibility, agility, and quicker travel

  • You’re going on short-term or occasional trips

Choose a Large RV if:

  • You’re travelling as a family or with multiple passengers

  • You’ll be spending extended periods on the road

  • Comfort, space, and full onboard amenities are important to you

  • You intend to stay at well-equipped caravan parks or free camp in open areas

  • You’re considering a full-time road lifestyle or doing the Big Lap

For many travellers, starting with a rental can help test what works best before making a bigger investment. If unsure, begin with a small RV on a shorter trip to learn your needs—then consider upsizing if you find yourself craving more space, convenience, or long-term potential.

In the end, the best RV for your Australian road trip is the one that balances comfort, practicality, and freedom—so you can spend more time enjoying the journey and less time managing your vehicle.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

Is a small or large RV better for first-time travellers in Australia?

For first-time RV travellers in Australia, a small RV or campervan is often the better choice. These vehicles are easier to drive, park, and manage—especially if you’re unfamiliar with Australia’s vast road network, variable terrain, or left-hand driving system. Most small RVs can be driven with a regular Class C licence, require less fuel, and offer fewer complexities when it comes to setup and camp life.

They also allow easier access to cities, coastal routes, and compact national parks like Wilsons Promontory or Lamington. That said, they do come with limitations: smaller living space, fewer onboard facilities, and less comfort for long stays.

If your trip is short, budget-focused, or includes stops at powered caravan parks, a small RV will offer plenty of freedom without overwhelming you. However, if you’re travelling with children, plan to cover long distances, or want a self-contained setup, starting with a mid-size motorhome (still under 6.5m) could strike a better balance. Renting first before buying is highly recommended to discover your preferences without committing upfront.

No—large RVs cannot access all the same destinations as small campervans in Australia, particularly when it comes to narrow, remote, or rugged areas. While Australia has an excellent network of highways and major roads suitable for big rigs, many popular camping and scenic spots have size restrictions, low clearance, or tight turns that make larger vehicles unsuitable or outright prohibited.

For example:

  • Tasmania’s west coast, many areas of the Daintree, and steep tracks in the Blue Mountains may be difficult to access in RVs longer than 7 metres.

  • Free or low-cost campsites, especially in national parks, often specify vehicle size limits or require self-contained setups.

  • Ferries to islands like Kangaroo Island or Fraser Island may charge significantly more for larger vehicles or restrict total length.

On the other hand, large RVs are ideal for long-distance highway travel and staying in well-equipped caravan parks where space, water, and power are available. If you’re sticking to popular tourist routes (like the East Coast, WA’s Coral Coast, or inland highways), large RVs will serve you well—but they aren’t suitable for every hidden gem.

The cost difference between small and large RVs in Australia can be significant—both for rentals and ownership. Here’s a general breakdown:

Rentals:

  • Small campervan (2-berth): $60–$120 AUD per day during off-peak, rising to $150+ during peak season.

  • Large motorhome (4–6 berth): $180–$350+ AUD per day depending on features, season, and location.

Ownership:

  • Small campervan: $20,000–$60,000 AUD (used or new, depending on condition and features)

  • Large motorhome or caravan: $80,000–$250,000+ AUD for high-end models with full amenities

Ongoing costs like fuel, insurance, registration, servicing, and storage also scale with size. A larger RV consumes more diesel, incurs higher tolls, and may need commercial-grade insurance policies.

However, a large RV may reduce the need for external accommodation and restaurant meals due to its full kitchen, bedding, and bathroom setup—making it more cost-efficient for long-term travel. The key is to assess how frequently you’ll travel and whether comfort or savings is your top priority.

In Australia, most RVs—including large ones—can be driven with a standard car licence (Class C), provided the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) is under 4.5 tonnes. This covers the majority of motorhomes and campervans hired or purchased for regular recreational use.

However, some larger RVs, especially imported or custom-built motorhomes, exceed this limit. If the GVM is:

  • Between 4.5 and 8 tonnes, you’ll need a Light Rigid (LR) licence

  • Above 8 tonnes, a Medium Rigid (MR) or Heavy Rigid (HR) licence may be required

To get an LR licence, you must hold a Class C licence for at least 12 months and pass additional knowledge and driving tests.

It’s also important to note that:

  • Towing a large caravan may require your vehicle to meet minimum towing capacity, which is specified by the manufacturer.

  • Overseas visitors can usually use their foreign licence (in English or with an International Driving Permit) for rental RVs under 4.5 tonnes.

Always check the weight rating and licensing requirements before hiring or buying an RV—especially if you’re aiming for a larger, self-contained model.

Yes, caravan parks and campgrounds often charge more for large RVs in Australia. This is mainly due to the extra space required and the additional power and water usage larger vehicles tend to consume.

Here’s how charges may vary:

  • Standard powered site (small RV): $35–$55 AUD per night

  • Large powered site (suitable for big rigs): $50–$80+ AUD per night

  • Ensuite sites (with private bathroom): $80–$100+ AUD per night

Some parks offer flat-rate pricing regardless of RV size, but many use tiered pricing based on vehicle length, number of occupants, and site features (e.g. drive-through access, slab surface, shade, or proximity to facilities).

Additionally, some remote or national park campgrounds may have limited large vehicle spaces, so pre-booking is essential. Conversely, many showgrounds, roadhouses, and farm stays are more accommodating for large RVs at affordable rates, especially in regional areas.

Always read site specifications before booking. Some locations have maximum length restrictions (e.g. 6.5m or 9m), which can limit where you can stay in a larger rig.

Yes, free camping is generally easier in a small RV due to its size, mobility, and lower visibility. Many designated free and low-cost campsites across Australia are in areas where space is limited, and smaller vehicles are simply a better fit.

Advantages for small RVs include:

  • Easier access to informal bush camps, coastal tracks, and forest roads

  • Less likely to draw attention or complaints when stealth camping

  • Lower environmental impact and footprint

  • Ability to use smaller parking bays at rest areas and picnic grounds

That said, small RVs are not always self-contained, which may disqualify them from using certain freedom camping areas—especially in New Zealand-influenced zones like parts of Victoria, Tasmania, or coastal NSW, where local councils require self-containment certification.

In contrast, large RVs offer more comfort for long-term off-grid stays but may struggle with access, turning radius, and finding level ground. If free camping is central to your travel plans, a compact, self-contained campervan offers the best mix of access and flexibility.

For the Big Lap—a full circuit around Australia covering over 15,000 km—the best RV size depends on how you travel, who’s with you, and how long you’re on the road.

Small RVs or campervans work well for:

  • Solo travellers or couples

  • Minimalist, fast-paced itineraries

  • Fewer breakdown worries and easier access to bush camps

  • Lower ongoing costs and better fuel economy

However, for most travellers doing the Big Lap, a mid-to-large size RV is preferred because:

  • You’ll spend months on the road and need space to live comfortably

  • You’ll carry more gear, clothing, food, and tools

  • Self-contained setups are useful in remote areas with limited facilities

  • Larger water tanks, solar systems, and internal bathrooms make long-term travel smoother

Families, grey nomads, or digital nomads should consider full-sized motorhomes, caravans, or fifth-wheelers that offer proper kitchens, showers, and space for work or schooling. While bigger rigs limit access to some destinations, they provide the kind of stability and routine needed for life on the road.

For most Big Lap travellers, comfort, reliability, and storage outweigh the convenience of small RVs—especially when doing it all in one go.

Related posts:

  1. Top 10 RV Storage in Australia
  2. City vs Rural RV Travel in Australia: Pros, Cons & Experience
  3. Two-Berth vs Four-Berth RVs: What Size Fits Your Australian Adventure?
  4. Australian RV Road Trips: Great Ocean Road vs Red Centre Way
  5. How to Save Money on Fuel During Long Aussie RV Trips

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