It will cost you less than AU $9,000 to travel around Australia,  according to World Nomads. It doesn’t matter if you love adventure or a leisure ride, Australia is a perfect place for road tripping. Given that the region has over 823,000 kilometers of road, you can imagine how fantastic traveling around in a vehicle can be.

There are many places to explore from lush rainforests to desert plains, mountain ranges, and twisted coastlines. But before you can pack and hop into your car, you need to plan a reliable strategy to ensure your  road trip of a lifetime.

A road trip is cheap, but there are additional expenses that add up along the way, making it costly. That is why you need to plan your finances before hitting the open roads. Think of the places you want to see and find out if you are required to pay entrance fees in national parks and museums.

Calculate the cost of gas, food, accommodation, and miscellaneous.  Creating a road trip budget is an excellent way to ensure you enjoy an epic vacation without skipping a day’s meal because you overspent the previous day.

While hiring a vehicle for your trip can be affordable, experts recommend that you purchase one.  Buying a road trip car comes with several benefits, including freedom and the right to sell after your vacation. If you are looking to experience a worthwhile trip, it is essential to select the right car. This means picking an automobile with enough room for you and your luggage. If you have travel companions, think about their comfort as well as safety. It would also be best if you considered terrain and weather conditions when planning your journey.

As a general rule, always opt for four-wheel drives. Choosing an SUV, for instance, guarantees sufficient space for comfort and comes equipped with a variety of features for entertainment. But, the most appealing aspect of sport utility vehicles is dependability. These models are fuel-efficient, and you can drive on rough terrain without facing any challenges. With so many options in the market,  comparing automobile reliability ratings is key to making informed choices. Go through customer feedback on reputable dealership sites. This step will help you identify quality and dependable vehicles.

In a region dominated by vast and attractive landscapes, there are plenty of  road trip routes to take. Depending on your travel interests, you can cruise along the Great Ocean Road, the Big Lap, the Nullarbor Plain, or Tasmania’s East Coast. Whichever route you take, there’s something unique about it. For instance, the Grand Pacific Drive allows you the opportunity to enjoy a thrilling ride on the 2,200 feet Sea Cliff Bridge that hugs the coastline for about 87 miles. Taking a Tasmanian drive gives you the pleasure to view stunning natural wonders such as the Bays of Fire, Cradle Mountain, and lovely Launceston. It is upon you to determine where you want to go.

It’s easy to miss the spectacular views during your trip if you don’t research beforehand. So, take the time to identify places that are worth stopping your car and enjoying the scene. Some have natural hidden spots while others offer man-made structures you’ll want to explore. A rule of thumb is to have a  checklist of must-see places in Australia. You may not see all of them, but you’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring places including Uluru, Kangaroo Island, Cairns, and Sydney.

When it comes to packing, you need to be cautious not to over pack. Write a  list of travel essentials that make any road trip perfect. Start with clothing depending on the weather condition of the region. If you are traveling when it’s hot, make sure to pack light clothing. Carry with you warm clothes plus footwear when road tripping during the cold season. You should also pack enough toiletries, food, water, and snacks. Don’t forget your camera because you’ll want to take pictures of scenic views. Packing a first aid kit and toolbox is vital for emergencies.

Although planning is essential for a memorable trip, leave room for spontaneity. You can adjust your planned route and set more time for off-road quests or unplanned stops at scenic views. Also, try spending a few minutes interacting with the locals to make new friends.