Travelling around Australia by Car
The world’s smallest continent and biggest island is Australia. In terms of size, it is nearly as big as the 48 contiguous United States. Its 20.4 million people are generally focused in the eastern and south eastern coastal urban areas. This means that there are big open spaces to explore in the rest of the country, and this can be best accomplished by car. Beautiful coastlines, inland mountainous areas and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wildlife are there for the traveller to discover.
All you need to easily organize for car rental at the airport or hotel is a valid drivers license that is in English. There are dozens of car hire companies providing different kinds of vehicles, from diverse makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is a vehicle to suit anyone. For example, those who want to camp can get campervans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come equipped with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Deluxe models will have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini kitchen. If you are travelling in more rough terrain, there are four-wheel-drives. If you are traveling on a budget, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars.
Driving in Australia can be different from other countries: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. Anticipate the car hire company to provide thorough information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), what to do in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation ahead will assure a successful and enjoyable car vacation in Australia.
