This article has been contributed by one of our guest bloggers.
If your heading ‘down under’ and planning a road trip in Australia, make sure your car is ready for the journey!
Here are some tips to help you get it ready.
What to know about car insurance in Australia
Car insurance in Australia is a mandatory requirement. All drivers must have at least third-party insurance, which is the cheapest insurance that covers damages caused to other people or property. Third-party insurance does not cover the cost of repairs to your own vehicle.
Comprehensive insurance is the highest level of coverage available and provides protection for your car, as well as other people's property. Comprehensive insurance also covers accidental damage, theft, fire, and weather damage.
The cost of comprehensive insurance can vary depending on the value of your car and your driving history. If you have a good driving history, you may be eligible for a discount on your premium.
Make sure you have your international driver's permit
Australians are renowned for their love of the open road and adventure travel, and there are few better ways to see the country than by car. However, if you're planning on renting a car and hitting the highway, it's important to make sure you have the proper paperwork in order.
Unless you have an Australian driver's license, you'll need to obtain an international driver's permit (IDP) before getting behind the wheel. The process is simple enough - just visit your local AAA or automotive club and apply for an IDP using your valid driver's license.
Once you receive your IDP, you'll be able to rent a car and hit the open road with confidence. So whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or just want to explore the outback at your own pace, be sure to get your IDP before heading to Australia.
Get an Australian map to help plan your route
Australia is a big country, and planning a road trip can be a daunting task. One of the first steps is to get a good map of the country. Australian maps typically show roads of different types (highways, primary routes, etc.), as well as points of interest such as towns, campgrounds, and national parks.
They can also indicate which roads are unsealed or have frequent closures due to weather conditions. This information can be invaluable in planning your route and ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Australian maps can be purchased from most bookstores or online retailers.
This post will help you choose the right maps for your trip
Shop around for gasoline - it will be more expensive in Australia than in the United States
Anyone who has ever been to Australia knows that it can be a very expensive place to live. In fact it is one of the most expensive countries in the world. This is especially true when it comes to gasoline, or petrol is it’s called in Australia.
In Australia, the price of gasoline is often much higher than it is in the United States. As a result, it pays to shop around for the best deals on gasoline.
There are a number of online resources that can help Australians find the lowest prices on gasoline. By using these resources, Australians can save a significant amount of money on their gas bills.
Most Aussie road trippers use an app called ‘Fuel Map Australia’ which uses crowd sourced data to show recent fuel prices at petrol stations across Australia.
This post will help you to reduce the cost of fuel on your road trip
Pack snacks and drinks for the drive - there aren't always many places to stop and buy food
Australian road trips are the stuff of legend. With its vast open spaces and stunning scenery, there’s no better way to explore the country. However, one downside of road tripping in Australia is that there aren’t always many places to stop and buy food.
You’ll also find that prices in road side convenience stores can be very expensive.
This can be a problem if you’re driving for long periods of time, as you’ll quickly get hungry. To avoid this, make sure to pack snacks and drinks for the journey. A few sandwiches, some fruit, and a cooler full of drinks will go a long way towards keeping you satisfied on your trip.
And if you find yourself in need of a real meal, most towns have hotels (pubs) and an RSL which you’ll will have great meals at affordable prices.
Bring a first-aid kit in case of emergencies on your road trip
A road trip can be an adventurous and memorable experience. However, it is important to be prepared for any eventuality.
A first-aid kit is an essential item for any road trip. In the event of a minor injury or unexpected illness, a well-stocked first-aid kit can be a lifesaver. Be sure to include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and allergy medication.
It is also a good idea to pack any prescription medications you may need and include a list of emergency contacts. By being prepared for the unexpected, you can help ensure that your road trip is safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.
If you keep all of your first aid and prescription medications in one bag that’s easy to get to you won’t find yourself digging through bags and other gear to find them.
Check for traffic updates online or on the radio before you leave so you can avoid any congestion in Australia.
Before you set out on your travels, it is always a good idea to check for traffic updates. This way, you can avoid any traffic congestion and make the most of your time on the road.
In Australia, there are a number of ways to stay up to date with the latest traffic information. You can check online websites or use apps that provide live traffic updates.
This post has links to every state and territory's road conditions website
You can also listen to the radio for traffic reports. By taking a few minutes to check for traffic updates before you leave, you can ensure that your journey is as smooth and efficient as possible.
Of course Google Maps is also a great way to find the fastest route that takes into account current traffic conditions. Just don’t rely on it when you get outside of built up areas and mobile phone range.
These are just a few things to keep in mind when planning a road trip through Australia. Make sure you're prepared before you set out on your journey, and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!
