The Ultimate Guide to Road Tripping in Australia

To make the journey one for the books, knowing how Australia’s culture and environment differ from Singapore’s can be advantageous. 

1. Be familiar with Australia’s road rules

The Singaporean driver’s licence is accepted for car rentals in Australia, so renting your road trip ride is generally convenient. Plus, Australians also keep to the left while driving, just like Singaporeans! However, do avoid driving during sunrise, sunset, and at night as many wildlife will become active and cross the highways. You wouldn’t want to literally bump into a kangaroo on the road!

2. Learn about Australia’s seasons and weather patterns

Being familiar with the seasons on a road trip is crucial as that can influence the driving conditions and additional considerations you may need to put in place. Australia’s climate differs across regions throughout the year but generally, it’s best to visit during the cooler weather from March to May or September to November, when temperatures range from 17ºC to 32ºC. Remember to drive slowly and carefully in winter since melted ice can make the roads a dangerous slip ‘n slide. It also helps to keep a further distance from vehicles in front of you as slowing down may be challenging.

3. Plan for rest stops

You never know when nature is calling, and having frequent pit stops will ensure you get sufficient rest after hours of driving. After all, road tripping is almost like living in a car and you should plan for regular stretches and breaks. If you’re on a budget and well-stocked with food, take more pit stops at tourist information centres instead of gas stations to prevent making unnecessary purchases at the latter. You can also learn useful tips and interesting facts about the town you’re in from the locals while you’re there as well.

4. Car rentals

Since you are on a road trip, a comfy ride would be ideal. Once you’ve decided on your route, you can rent a car using online car renting sites where you can customise bookings according to your travel schedule and your preferred car features. Comparing prices of different car rental companies and searching for the best insurance offered is also imperative—although most rental car insurances will still subject you to car rental excess.

MSIG’s TravelEasy comes in handy as it supplements rental vehicle excess benefits and covers unexpected costs in the event you have to cut the trip short due to injury or sickness and return the vehicle to the nearest hire depot. Besides rental vehicles, TravelEasy can ease your financial worries by covering your medical expenses and overseas hospitalisation while in Australia.

5. Plan out your itinerary

With the long distances involved in road trips, remember to read travel guides or check out photos of places you wish to visit so you don’t miss out any important details. For example, if you’re looking to watch the dolphin’s feeding at the beach on Monkey Mia, you’d have to get up early as their first and most popular feeding session starts at 7:45 am. You wouldn’t want to spend the entire day backtracking and driving somewhere just to be disappointed!

6. Learn how to perform basic repairs and car maintenance

Familiar with the contents of a toolbox? You might want to since gravel roads are plentiful in Australia. These far out roads can easily puncture your tires, making it a huge problem if you’re stuck in the rural outback. Additionally, mechanics are rare and may be strapped for parts which can cost you large sums for vehicle servicing. Make sure to check your fuel and ensure it’s sufficient as well as map out gas stations along your route before setting off. You never know when basic car maintenance skills and bringing spare petrol can help you get into the next town.

Every overseas trip has its own challenges which could make or break your enjoyment, no matter which country you visit. Here are some tips to help make your trip less bumpy of a ride!
 

1. Download your maps and music in advance

Long drives? Then you know it’s time to crank up the music! If you’re driving with friends, create a group playlist with everyone’s song choices so you can have a carpool karaoke! On that note, don’t forget to download your maps and music as most of Australia looks like a ‘middle of nowhere’ and reception can be poor, especially in far-flung regions. Though being stuck in a car together might be fun, being lost definitely isn’t.

2. Accommodations

You might think of hotels and apartments for a good night’s sleep, but why not try embracing an outdoor-centric lifestyle on the trip? If you’re one to go all out on an adventure, you can choose to book a campervan for staying outdoors or lookup campsites. Australia is abundant with free and affordable campsites that have a range of facilities.

Australia has much to offer, from surfing at beautiful beaches to getting up close with wildlife. The best part? It can all be done in a single road trip. It’s the perfect adventure filled with eye-opening discoveries! But being stranded on the roads abroad can be dangerous, and when mishaps occur, finding assistance can be difficult. You wouldn’t want to encounter unforeseen accidents that leave you financially distressed after saving up for the trip.

Adventure takes guts but having equal drive to ensure you’re safeguarded with the right protection can be its own challenge. Securing comprehensive coverage acts as a reliable safety net, allowing you to enjoy travelling without worrying about financial relief when unexpected problems surface.

Ensure you have the best time and feel safe while road tripping with MSIG TravelEasy: https://www.msig.com.sg/personal-insurance/traveleasy

*Cover and limits based on Standard Plan.