How to Use Public Showers, Toilets & Facilities on the Road (Australia RV Guide)

When you’re travelling Australia by RV, van, or camper trailer, one of the most practical questions you’ll face is: Where can I freshen up, go to the toilet, or access basic amenities on the road? While many self-contained rigs have onboard bathrooms, plenty of travellers rely on Australia’s vast network of public facilities—especially those on a tighter budget, travelling lighter, or simply looking to top up between campsite stays.

Fortunately, Australia is one of the most RV-friendly countries in the world, offering an impressive range of free or low-cost public toilets, showers, laundries, and other facilities designed to support travellers. From hot showers in beachside change rooms to clean rest stops on the open highway, you’ll find options in even the most unexpected places. But knowing how to find these amenities, use them properly, and respect the unwritten rules of shared spaces is essential.

This guide is your complete roadmap to using public showers, toilets, and other shared facilities while RVing across Australia. Whether you’re a full-time grey nomad, a weekend adventurer, or a vanlife backpacker, we’ll cover how to find the best facilities, stay hygienic, remain safe, and respect local communities—so you can travel cleaner, smarter, and more sustainably.

Types of Public Facilities Available to RV Travellers

Australia’s public infrastructure is surprisingly well-equipped to support RVers, thanks to decades of domestic road travel culture and government investment in tourism-friendly services. Whether you’re camping off-grid or stopping over in a small town, you’ll likely encounter a variety of public amenities. Understanding what’s available and how to use them efficiently can make a big difference in the comfort and flow of your journey.

Public Toilets

Public toilets are widely available and free to use across Australia. You’ll find them in:

• Roadside rest areas

• Parks and recreation areas

• Visitor information centres

• Beaches and coastal reserves

• Town centres and public transport hubs

• Fuel stations and fast food outlets

There are several types:

• Drop toilets (composting or long-drop): Often found in remote or bush areas, basic but functional

• Flushing toilets: Common in urban and suburban facilities

• Accessible toilets: Usually larger, designed for wheelchair access; often cleaner due to lower use

• Baby change areas: Typically found in shopping centres or family parks

The National Public Toilet Map (toiletmap.gov.au) is a free government tool that lists over 19,000 locations across Australia and includes features like accessibility info, opening hours, and whether toilets are attended or unstaffed.

Public Showers

Public showers can be a game-changer for travellers without onboard bathrooms. These vary greatly in quality and availability:

• Beach showers: Typically cold, open-air, and designed for rinsing off sand and salt

• Paid hot showers: Found at surf clubs, aquatic centres, or some regional parks; coin- or token-operated

• Community centre facilities: Often have hot showers for a small fee or gold coin donation

• Remote towns or Outback roadhouses: May offer showers with fuel or meal purchase

Some are free, others may cost between $2 and $5. Not all public showers are signed, so checking apps like WikiCamps is key to locating them.

Other Useful Amenities

RV life often involves more than just showers and toilets. Keep an eye out for:

• Free BBQs and picnic shelters: Found in many council-run parks; clean up after use is expected

• Public laundries: Sometimes part of community centres, libraries, or caravan parks that offer access for a fee

• Water refill stations: Town centres and rest stops sometimes have potable water taps (bring a connector fitting)

• Sinks and benches: Often in picnic areas, useful for washing up (if permitted)

• Change rooms and lockers: Common in aquatic centres or tourist beaches

Knowing the full range of available facilities lets you stay clean, comfortable, and self-sufficient—even in minimalist rigs.

How to Find Public Showers and Toilets in Australia

While Australia is well-equipped with public amenities, not all facilities are clearly marked or advertised—especially in smaller towns or remote regions. The good news is, with a few reliable tools and a bit of local knowledge, finding clean and accessible showers and toilets on the road becomes second nature. Here’s how experienced travellers stay fresh and functional without the guesswork.

Top Tools & Apps for Finding Public Facilities

1. WikiCamps Australia
The go-to app for most RVers and vanlifers in Australia. WikiCamps allows you to search for thousands of public facilities, including:

• Toilets (drop, flushing, accessible)

• Showers (hot, cold, free, paid)

• BBQs, laundry facilities, and water points

• Filter options by cost, accessibility, user ratings

It works offline, which is essential in areas with limited reception.

2. CamperMate
Another popular free app, CamperMate not only maps public toilets and showers but also provides:

• Real-time alerts for facility closures or hazards

• User-submitted reviews and cleanliness ratings

• Directions and contact info for nearby caravan parks and councils

3. National Public Toilet Map (www.toiletmap.gov.au)
A federal government initiative listing over 19,000 toilets Australia-wide, with features like:

• Location

• Wheelchair access

• Opening hours

• Baby change availability

• Closest nearby toilets

Especially useful for families and those with accessibility needs.

4. Google Maps & Reviews
Sometimes, the simplest way is to type “public toilet” or “public shower near me” into Google Maps. While not as reliable for remote areas, it’s surprisingly effective in cities and towns, with images and real user reviews to help gauge conditions.

5. Visitor Information Centres & Local Councils
In small towns or rural areas, drop into the local visitor centre—they often provide printed maps or verbal tips about nearby amenities, including community centres or sports complexes that may have showers or toilets open to travellers.

Tips for Using Apps Effectively

• Download offline maps and data before heading into remote areas

• Check user reviews and dates to see if facilities are currently working and clean

• Use filters to avoid non-public options or locate specific needs (e.g., hot showers, free access)

• Cross-reference apps when in doubt—WikiCamps may show something CamperMate missed, and vice versa

With the right tools and a few taps, you’ll rarely be caught out needing a toilet or a shower while exploring Australia.

Best Practices & Etiquette for Using Public Amenities

Using public facilities while travelling isn’t just about access—it’s also about courtesy, cleanliness, and respect. In Australia, many councils and communities offer free or low-cost showers and toilets to support RV travellers. But with rising visitor numbers, these amenities are under increasing pressure. Practising good etiquette ensures facilities remain open, well-maintained, and accessible for all.

General Hygiene Tips

• Always carry your own supplies: While many facilities stock toilet paper and soap, they’re not guaranteed. Pack a small kit with toilet paper, hand sanitiser, biodegradable soap, and wet wipes.

• Use thongs or sandals in public showers: This protects against fungal infections and keeps your feet clean in shared spaces.

• Clean up after yourself: Rinse off sand or mud before entering facilities, wipe down wet benches or sink areas, and leave showers and toilets as you’d wish to find them.

• Dispose of waste properly: Don’t flush anything except toilet paper. Sanitary products, wipes, and other items should be placed in bins, not toilets.

Respecting Others

• Be quick and considerate: During busy periods—especially mornings and evenings—keep showers and bathroom use short. Others may be waiting.

• Limit water usage: In drought-prone regions, even a short shower is generous. Respect posted time limits or use only what’s essential.

• Don’t monopolise power sockets or benches: Charging devices or shaving at public sinks is fine—but don’t hog the space or stay too long.

• Avoid loud conversations or phone calls inside facilities, especially early in the morning or late at night when others seek peace and quiet.

Grey Nomad & Vanlifer Etiquette

• Support towns that support travellers: If a small town offers free showers or BBQs, return the favour—buy a coffee, fuel up, or grab groceries locally. This helps ensure those services remain available.

• Don’t set up camp near toilets or showers unless it’s permitted: Overnight parking or long-term stays in car parks or beachside reserves are often prohibited and may result in fines or complaints.

• Avoid washing dishes or clothes in bathroom sinks unless signage says it’s okay. Not all facilities are equipped for this kind of use.

Practising respect and consideration isn’t just about doing the right thing—it helps preserve access to these essential services for all Aussie travellers.

Safety Tips When Using Public Facilities

While Australia is generally a safe and welcoming country, it’s still important to stay alert and take basic precautions when using public showers, toilets, or shared amenities—especially if you’re travelling solo, staying in remote areas, or accessing facilities after dark. With a few smart habits, you can maintain your comfort and security throughout your journey.

Personal Safety Tips

• Use facilities during daylight hours whenever possible: Public amenities are generally safer and cleaner earlier in the day or during periods of high foot traffic.

• Trust your instincts: If a location feels unsafe, poorly maintained, or isolated, drive on to the next option—even if it’s a little out of the way.

• Avoid remote or unlit areas alone at night: Particularly important for solo female travellers or when parked at rest areas off major highways.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on people entering or exiting the facility, and don’t be afraid to leave quickly if something seems off.

Protecting Belongings

• Bring only what you need: When showering or using public toilets, carry minimal valuables. A compact waterproof pouch can hold essentials like your phone, keys, wallet, and soap.

• Use a hanging toiletry kit or dry bag: These keep your items off wet floors and make it easier to get in and out quickly.

• Secure your RV or van: Always lock your vehicle when away, even briefly. Opportunistic theft can happen anywhere.

• Keep your phone with you: Not just for emergencies, but also to help you stay connected, use maps, or call for assistance if needed.

Public amenities are provided to make your trip easier—not riskier. A little awareness goes a long way in ensuring that each stop is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

How to Use Facilities in Different Settings

Public amenities in Australia can vary dramatically depending on where you are—urban beach, rural highway, Outback town, or holiday park. Knowing what to expect and how to approach each environment helps you adapt to local norms, maximise comfort, and avoid unpleasant surprises. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll typically find in different settings and how to use them responsibly.

Beach & Coastal Facilities

Australia’s coastline is dotted with public amenities that cater to beachgoers and RVers alike. These often include:

• Cold outdoor showers (mostly rinse-off only)

• Toilets, sometimes with change rooms

• Picnic tables and free BBQs

Tips:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in summer and during weekends.

• These showers are great for a quick rinse but not ideal for deep cleaning or shampooing.

• Use biodegradable soap only if allowed—many signs prohibit soaping up in outdoor showers.

Highway Rest Stops & Roadhouses

Australia’s major highways feature a mix of rest stops, many designed with long-distance travellers in mind:

• Basic rest areas with toilets (often drop toilets)

• Some stops include picnic shelters, bins, and dump points

• Larger roadhouses may offer coin showers, hot meals, or even powered sites

Tips:

• Don’t treat rest stops as campgrounds unless explicitly permitted.

• Clean up after yourself—even if the stop is remote.

• Use these as quick refresh points, not long-term stays.

Caravan Parks & Holiday Parks

These are the gold standard for amenities:

• Clean, serviced bathrooms and showers

• Laundry, BBQs, kitchen sinks, and potable water

• Often gated or monitored for security

Tips:

• Even if not staying overnight, some parks allow you to pay a small fee to use their showers or laundry. Always ask at reception.

• Use peak facilities during off-peak hours for privacy.

• Respect signs, quiet hours, and cleaning schedules.

Community & Recreation Centres

Found in towns and regional hubs, these are often underused gems:

• Offer hot showers, changing rooms, sometimes lockers

• Some centres include pools or gyms with additional amenities

• Small entry fee or gold coin donation may apply

Tips:

• Ask locals or visit the town visitor centre to find these hidden options.

• Many offer clean, safe environments perfect for a reset day.

• Be courteous—these centres are shared by locals, including families and seniors.

Each setting offers its own mix of pros and cons. Being adaptable, observant, and respectful ensures smooth use of facilities wherever you are.

Legal Considerations & Local Rules

While Australia is one of the most RV-friendly nations, there are still important legal considerations when using public showers, toilets, and other facilities on the road. Many councils and regions welcome responsible travellers, but misuse or overstaying your welcome can lead to fines, public complaints, or even closure of these services. Understanding local laws and expectations ensures you stay on the right side of the rules—and helps protect access for future RVers.

Overnight Parking Restrictions

Just because there’s a public toilet or shower nearby doesn’t mean you’re allowed to stay overnight. Many coastal councils and urban areas post signs stating:

• “No Overnight Parking”

• “No Sleeping in Vehicles”

• “No Camping or Use of Facilities After Hours”

Violating these signs can lead to on-the-spot fines ranging from $100 to over $1,000, depending on the local law. Councils often enforce these rules with rangers, especially in popular or environmentally sensitive areas.

Tip: Use apps like WikiCamps to check if overnight stays are permitted before settling in.

Facility Use Conditions

Some facilities are for day-use only, while others may be restricted to locals, sporting club members, or registered campers. You may also see signage indicating:

• “No Soap or Shampoo” in outdoor beach showers

• “No Greywater Disposal” at park taps

• “Toilets for Patrons Only” at service stations or cafes

If signage is unclear, ask at a nearby shop or visitor centre. Most communities appreciate travellers who make an effort to follow the rules.

Fines and Enforcement

Fines are most commonly issued for:

• Illegally camping near public toilets or showers

• Dumping waste (including greywater) improperly

• Using facilities clearly marked for restricted access

• Disruptive behaviour (e.g. noise, damage, littering)

While enforcement varies, repeat offences or traveller hotspots often draw more attention from local councils.

Supportive Communities Deserve Respect

Many small towns go out of their way to support RVers by providing free amenities, dump points, and overnight rest areas. These communities rely on mutual respect—travellers using facilities responsibly, spending money locally, and moving on when appropriate.

In return, you get clean, safe, and ongoing access to public resources that make your road trip more affordable and enjoyable.

Eco-Friendly Habits While Using Public Amenities

Public amenities are shared spaces that rely on everyone’s respect and care to remain open, clean, and sustainable. As an RV traveller in Australia, adopting eco-conscious habits not only reduces your environmental impact but also contributes to the long-term preservation of the very facilities and natural spaces you’re enjoying. Here’s how to stay clean and green on the road.

Limit Water Usage in Drought-Prone Regions

Australia frequently faces water scarcity, especially in inland and Outback areas. When using public showers or taps:

• Keep your showers short—ideally under 3 minutes

• Don’t leave taps running while brushing teeth or shaving

• Follow local signage around water restrictions or bans

Many regional towns install public showers or water points as a courtesy—wasting this resource can lead to removal or rationing.

Use Biodegradable Soap and Toiletries

Regular soaps and shampoos often contain chemicals that can harm ecosystems, especially in beach showers or natural settings where greywater runs off into the environment. Opt for:

• Biodegradable, low-impact soaps

• Chemical-free shampoos and toothpaste

• Natural deodorants and personal wipes

Even small changes help reduce pollution and protect native plants, animals, and waterways.

Never Dump Waste or Greywater Improperly

Toilets and storm drains are not dumping points for your RV’s waste. Always:

• Use designated dump points for cassette and blackwater

• Store greywater in tanks or containers if not self-draining into permitted areas

• Avoid rinsing dishes or dirty laundry in public bathroom sinks unless signage allows

Illegal dumping not only harms the environment but can attract complaints, fines, and closures of previously accessible facilities.

Leave No Trace—Anywhere You Stop

Whether it’s a quick toilet stop, an afternoon barbecue, or a bush shower, your goal should be to leave no visible sign you were there. Always:

• Take rubbish with you or use appropriate bins

• Wipe down benches or showers after use

• Avoid loud noise or disruptive behaviour in shared facilities

• Don’t graffiti or tamper with infrastructure

Public amenities are a privilege, not a right. Travellers who care for them help keep these services available for future roadtrippers.