How Much Money Do You Need to Travel Australia Full Time?

Australia, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse wildlife, is a dream destination for many travelers. But what if you want to take it a step further and travel Australia full time? Whether you're planning a gap year, a sabbatical, or an indefinite adventure, understanding the costs involved is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to budget for a full-time journey across this vast and captivating country.

1. Initial Costs

Vehicle Purchase or Rental

Caravan/Car Purchase: Buying a reliable Caravan or car can range from $40,000 to $200,000. While the upfront cost is high, you’ll save on accommodation.
Caravan/Car Rental: Renting a Caravan costs about $700-1,500 per week. This is ideal for short-term travel but can become expensive for long-term adventures.

Equipment and Gear

Camping gear, kitchen equipment, and other essentials can cost around $1,000-2,000.
Consider investing in good quality gear to avoid frequent replacements.

2. Ongoing Costs

Fuel

Fuel prices vary across Australia, averaging $1.60-3.00 per litre. Depending on your outfit most cars towing will consume between 15-25Lts per 100kms. Depending on your coverage for the week, expect to spend around $200-$300.

Accommodation

Campsites/Hipcamps: Paid campsites range from $20-50 per night, depending on how many people. However, free campsites and rest areas are available, especially in more remote areas.
Holiday Parks: If you need more amenities, holiday parks charge around $30-60 per night.

Food

Groceries: Cooking your own meals is the most cost-effective way. Expect to spend around $100-150 per week per adult. Groceries can be expensive in remote areas!
Eating Out: Dining out can quickly add up. Budget for $20-30 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant and $50-100 at a mid-range restaurant.

3. Miscellaneous Costs

Attractions and Activities

Australia offers numerous free natural attractions, but paid activities (like guided tours, entry fees for national parks, and adventure sports) can add up. Budget around $100-300 per month for activities.

Insurance

Travel insurance is essential. Expect to pay around $100-$200 per month for comprehensive coverage, including health, vehicle, and belongings.

Internet and Phone

Staying connected is crucial. Prepaid mobile plans with data cost around $30-50 per month. Starlink is $180 per month when travelling.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Here’s an estimated monthly budget for a couple travelling full time in Australia:

Fuel: $400-800
Accommodation: $300-1,200 (mix of free camps and paid sites)
Food: $600-$1000
Attractions and Activities: $100-300
Insurance: $100-200
Internet and Phone: $60-200

Total Monthly Costs: $1,569-3,700

Annual Budget

To estimate your annual budget, multiply your monthly costs by 12. This gives you a range of $18.828 to $44,400 per year for a couple noting the above.

We’ve always said that we would budget $50,000 for our family of four to cover incidentals and allow for living it up with activities and dining out when we want.

Tips for Saving Money

Use Fuel Apps: Apps like FuelMap and PetrolSpy help you find the cheapest fuel prices in your area.
Cook Your Own Meals: Reduce eating out and enjoy the experience of cooking in your caravan.
Opt for Free Campsites: Use apps like WikiCamps or HipCamps to find free or low-cost camping options.
Travel Slow: Spend more time in each place to reduce fuel costs and take advantage of weekly campsite rates.

Travelling Australia full time is an exciting and enriching experience, but it requires careful financial planning. By understanding and managing your costs, you can make the most of your journey without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re exploring the Outback, relaxing on pristine beaches, or discovering vibrant cities, the adventure of a lifetime awaits you Down Under. Happy travels!