So, you’re daydreaming about ditching the 9-to-5, grabbing a dusty map (or just Google Maps, let’s be real), and hitting the open road in the Land Down Under. Kangaroos hopping past your window, waves crashing just beyond your campsite, sunrise coffee brewed in the back of your van… yeah, we feel you. But before you fire up your vanlife playlist and book your flight, there’s one burning question: what’s the campervan rental cost in Australia?
Spoiler alert: it’s not one-size-fits-all. The cost depends on when, where, and how you roll. But don’t worry — we’ve been around the outback a few times, and we’ll break it down so you know exactly what kind of adventure your budget can handle.
Why Australia is the Ultimate Road Trip Destination
If freedom had a zip code, it would be somewhere along Australia’s coast.
This continent-sized playground was practically made for vanlife. Think endless roads that carve through wild red deserts, lush rainforests that feel straight out of Jurassic Park, and beach campsites where the only neighbors are dolphins and the occasional sleepy koala. Whether you’re winding down the Great Ocean Road with your windows down and hair tangled in salt air, or chasing waterfalls in Queensland’s hinterlands — there’s something primal about exploring Australia on four wheels.
And the best part? You’re not just a tourist passing through. When you rent a campervan, you’re living it. You’re waking up to sunrises in the middle of nowhere, cooking dinner while the stars show off, and taking pit stops wherever your gut tells you to pull over.
This isn’t just a trip. It’s a damn rite of passage.
But let’s be honest — magic comes with a price tag. And while a campervan adventure in Oz can absolutely be done on a budget, it’s smart to get clear on what that campervan rental cost Australia really looks like before you hit the ignition.
In the next section, we’ll give you real numbers. Not the vague “it depends” fluff you find on booking sites. We’re talking straight-up daily rates, seasonal price swings, and what you can expect to shell out for different van styles — from the humble backpacker van to the glammed-up mobile tiny home.
Ready? Let’s talk numbers.
The Quick Answer: Average Campervan Rental Cost Australia in 2025
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty — how much does a campervan rental cost in Australia right now?
Short answer: it ranges. Long answer: keep reading.
If you’re traveling in 2025, here’s what you can expect to pay per day for a campervan rental in Australia, depending on the type of ride you’re chasing and the season you’re rolling in:
| Van Type | Inclusions | Price Range (AUD/day) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget 2-Seater Van | Mattress, basic cooking setup, no toilet/shower | $60 – $110 |
| Mid-Range 2–4 Berth Campervan | Kitchen, power, small fridge | $100 – $180 |
| Fully-Equipped Self-Contained Van | Kitchen, toilet, shower, off-grid capability | $150 – $250 |
| Premium Motorhome (Sleeps 4–6) | Full bathroom, full kitchen, luxury features | $200 – $350 |
💡 Hot tip: If you’re renting during Australia’s peak travel season (roughly December to February), expect prices to skyrocket — especially along the East Coast. Shoulder seasons (March–May and September–November) are your budget-friendly sweet spots.
But rental cost isn’t just about the sticker price. Your total spend is the sum of the van + extras + clever choices. That’s why in the next section, we’re unpacking what actually influences how much you’ll end up paying.
Because let’s face it — two travelers could book the same van and pay wildly different prices. And we’re here to make sure you’re not the one getting fleeced.
Tip: Don’t know which vehicle is the right one for your trip in Australia? We got you, read this: Campervan vs Motorhome vs 4WD: What’s Best for Your Aussie Road Trip?
What Impacts the Campervan Hire Australia Price?
If you’ve been poking around rental sites and feel like prices are bouncing around like a kangaroo on espresso — you’re not wrong. There are a lot of moving parts that shape the campervan hire Australia price.
Let’s break down the big ones:
Season Matters — A Lot
Australia’s summer (Dec–Feb) is high season, especially for hotspots like Byron Bay or the Great Ocean Road. During these months, prices can double. Want cheaper rates and fewer crowds? Hit the road in May or October. You’ll still get sunshine, and your wallet will thank you.
Timing is everything! According to Tourism Research Australia, prices can fluctuate by up to 40% throughout the year:
| Season | Months | Price Impact | Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak | Dec-Feb | +30-40% | Hot, ideal for beaches |
| Spring Shoulder | Sep-Nov | +10-15% | Mild, pleasant |
| Autumn Shoulder | Mar-May | +5-10% | Cooling, less rain |
| Off-peak | Jun-Aug | -15-20% | Cooler, some rain |
“Last year, I booked my campervan in July and paid just $65/day for a mid-range van that would’ve cost $110/day during summer,” shares backpacker Tom from Manchester. “Sure, the nights were chilly in southern Australia, but I had the roads to myself!”
You might be wondering if the savings are worth compromising on weather. For many travelers, absolutely yes!
Van Type and Features
No surprise here: the more bells and whistles, the higher the rental cost. A no-frills van with a mattress and a cooler box? Dirt cheap. A tricked-out motorhome with solar panels, a fridge, and a hot shower? That’s luxury, mate.
Pick-Up Location
East Coast hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane tend to have better deals (more competition = better prices). But if you’re starting in Alice Springs or Broome? Fewer rental depots = higher costs.
Length of Your Trip
Booking for 3 weeks? You’ll likely get a sweet long-term discount. Booking for 3 days over a public holiday? Say hello to peak pricing.
One-Way vs Round Trip
Dropping off your camper in a different city than you picked it up? That’s called a one-way rental — and it usually comes with a fee. Sometimes it’s worth it for the adventure. Sometimes… it’s highway robbery. Always check.
Cost of Campervan Per Day Australia: Real-World Examples
Now that we’ve talked theory, let’s hit the road with some real-life, dirt-under-your-fingernails numbers. Because asking how much to rent a campervan in Australia is like asking, “How long is a surfboard?” It depends. But don’t worry — we’ve got your back with a few sample setups that cover every kind of traveler.
🎒 The Backpacker Budget Bouncer
- Van Type: Basic 2-seater (no toilet/shower)
- Travel Dates: Off-peak (May)
- Route: Melbourne → Brisbane (round trip, ~1,800 km)
- Duration: 14 days
| Item | Details | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rental | $70/day × 14 days | $980 |
| Insurance | Basic (included) | $0 |
| Fuel | ~1,800 km ÷ 9 km/L × $1.85/L | $370 |
| Campgrounds | 8 paid nights + 6 free campsites | $240 |
| National Park Pass | 1 park pass | $40 |
| Extra Gear | Cooking kit, bedding | $60 |
| Total Cost | — | $1,690 |
If you’re chasing cheap campervan rental Australia style, this is your jam. No frills, all freedom. Cook roadside pasta, sleep under the stars, and swap showers for beach swims. Total vibe.
💑 The Couples’ Coastal Getaway
- Van Type: Mid-range 2-berth with fridge + kitchen
- Travel Dates: Shoulder Season (October)
- Route: Brisbane → Cairns (one-way, ~1,700 km)
- Duration: 10 days
| Item | Details | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rental | $140/day × 10 days | $1,400 |
| Insurance Upgrade | Medium coverage | $280 |
| Fuel | ~1,700 km ÷ 10 km/L × $1.85/L | $315 |
| Campgrounds | 6 paid nights + 4 free | $270 |
| One-Way Fee | Drop-off in different city | $250 |
| National Park Pass | Several QLD parks | $60 |
| Additional Gear | Bedding, GPS | $90 |
| Total Cost | — | $2,665 |
Comfort meets adventure. You’ve got space to stretch, cool drinks in the fridge, and sunsets out the back doors. Add in the campervan hire Australia price for a one-way drop fee (~$200 total), and you’re still golden.
👨👩👧 The Family Outback Adventure
- Van Type: Full-size motorhome with toilet/shower
- Travel Dates: Peak Season (December)
- Route: Adelaide → Uluru → Darwin (~3,000 km)
- Duration: 12 days
| Item | Details | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rental | $250/day × 12 days | $3,000 |
| Insurance Upgrade | Premium coverage | $480 |
| Fuel | ~3,000 km ÷ 7.5 km/L × $1.95/L | $780 |
| Campgrounds | 10 holiday parks + 2 free stays | $450 |
| One-Way Fee | Remote drop-off | $450 |
| National Park Passes | Multiple NT/SA parks | $100 |
| Equipment Rental | Camping table, chairs, extra bedding | $120 |
| Total Cost | — | $5,380 |
Yes, it’s pricier. But you’re rolling through the Outback with a mobile fortress. With young ones onboard, the upgrade is worth it. It’s the high-end answer to “how much to rent a campervan in Australia” if you want comfort and chaos in equal measure.
🪪 The Working Holiday Maker (Long-Term Vanlife)
- Van Type: Basic 2-seater (mattress, cooker, no toilet)
- Travel Dates: Off-peak & shoulder season (April–August)
- Route: Loop from Sydney → East Coast → Red Centre → back
- Duration: 3 months (90 days)
| Item | Details | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rental | Long-term discount: ~$55/day × 90 days | $4,950 |
| Insurance | Third-party rental coverage (3 months) | $300 |
| Fuel | ~9,600 km ÷ 9 km/L × $1.85/L | $1,975 |
| Campgrounds | 45 paid nights (~$10) + 45 free camping | $450 |
| National Park Passes | Multiple states (annual or multi-pass) | $120 |
| Gear & Equipment | Bought own: stove, mattress topper, solar light etc. | $200 |
| Maintenance/Repairs | Flat tire + minor service fees (estimated) | $250 |
| Total Cost | — | $7,995 |
Notes for the WHV Traveler:
- If they stretch this trip to 6 months, most fixed costs like insurance and equipment don’t increase — just fuel and campsites.
- Some Working Holiday Makers also buy a van instead of renting. But for a flexible 3–6 month trip, long-term rental can be safer and more hassle-free (no paperwork, no reselling headaches).
- Van2Life Pro Tip: Some providers offer “rental to buy” options or rent-to-own long-term deals — ask before booking!
Whether you’re counting coins or splurging on style, the cost of campervan per day in Australia can flex to fit your travel type. Just make sure you factor in those not-so-obvious extras…
Hidden Costs You Don’t Want Sneaking Up on You
Just like a curious emu at your picnic, these fees can appear when you least expect them — and they love snacking on your wallet.
Insurance and Bond Requirements
Australian campervan insurance options will bewilder most travelers with their complexity:
- Basic coverage (often included): Liability excess (the amount you’re responsible for if damage occurs) of $3,000-7,500
- Medium coverage (+$15-25/day): Reduces excess to $1,500-3,000
- Premium coverage (+$25-45/day): Reduces excess to $0-500
Your bond amount typically equals your insurance excess and is held against your credit card for the duration of your trip, plus 7-14 days afterward.
Pro tip: Purchase third-party rental insurance from providers like Rentalcover.com for comparable coverage at 30-50% lower rates than rental company packages.
Fuel Costs and Mileage Limitations
Fuel represents one of your largest variable costs. According to FuelPrice.io, diesel averages $1.65-1.95 per liter, while petrol ranges from $1.75-2.10.
Watch out for mileage limits:
- Budget vans: 100-150 km/day
- Mid-range: 200-250 km/day
- Premium: Often unlimited
Exceeding these limits costs $0.25-0.40 per additional kilometer – which adds up fast on Australia’s vast highways!
Mike learned this the hard way: “Driving from Sydney to Brisbane, I hit four toll points without a pass.”
“The automatic number-plate readings cost me $80 extra, plus a $25 processing fee!”
To avoid surprises, use the Fuel Map Australia app to calculate precise fuel costs for your planned route.
One-Way Fees
Dropping your camper off somewhere new? That freedom can cost $200–$700, depending on the route. It’s a major driver of the final campervan rental cost Australia total.
Optional Add-Ons
Camping tables, bedding, GPS, child seats, Wi-Fi — the list goes on. Providers love to nickel-and-dime. Plan ahead, and bring your own gear if you can.
Mileage and Road Restrictions
Most campervans come with unlimited mileage, but check the fine print. Remote roads (like Gibb River Road or Fraser Island) might be off-limits unless you’ve got a 4WD and permission.
Want to keep your campervan rental budget Australia-friendly? Avoid these traps and ask questions before you book. Better to know now than cry into your campfire beans later.
Clever Ways to Slash Your Camper Costs
Worried about your budget? I understand. Many first-time travelers fear unexpected costs will ruin their dream trip. But there’s good news – these insider hacks can reduce your expenses by 30% or more:
- Mix free and paid camping: Australia offers thousands of free or low-cost camping options. Using the WikiCamps Australia app ($4.99), you can locate gorgeous free campsites with basic facilities. Alternating between these and paid sites for showers and power can cut accommodation costs by 40-60%.
- Cook your own meals: A campervan’s kitchen is your budget’s best friend against expensive restaurant bills. According to Numbeo, restaurant meals in Australia average $25-35 per person, while cooking similar meals yourself costs just $8-12 per person – saving a couple nearly $50 daily!
- Smart comparison shopping: Emma from London saved nearly $400 on her three-week trip by using Van2Life to compare options. “I found the exact same van for $20 less per day than if I’d booked directly,” she shares. The platform typically saves travelers 15-20% compared to booking directly with rental companies because their relationships with local suppliers eliminate hidden fees.
- Seek out relocation deals: Need a one-way trip? Rental companies regularly need vehicles moved between locations and offer greatly discounted or even free rentals to make this happen. Sites like Transfercar list deals as low as $5/day plus fuel allowance – a potential 90% savings!
As Leo from Vancouver discovered: “I flew one-way from Melbourne to Cairns for $180, then took a southbound relocation deal back for just $5/day. I saved over $1,500 co
Final Thoughts: Is Campervan Travel in Australia Worth the Cost?
Let’s be real. Campervan travel isn’t cheap cheap. But what you get for your money? That’s where the magic is.
You’re not just paying for a bed on wheels. You’re paying for absolute freedom. For ocean sunrises from your sleeping bag. For late-night roadside chats with fellow nomads. For the dusty, sweaty, jaw-dropping joy of discovering Australia one kilometer at a time.
Whether you go full luxury or hunt down the best cheap campervan rental Australia has to offer, there’s a van — and a vibe — for every kind of traveler.
The campervan rental cost Australia might sting at first glance, but remember: motels don’t come with mountain views or spontaneous detours to glow worm caves. And flight itineraries don’t offer kangaroo traffic jams.
So, is it worth it?
Mate, it’s worth every bloody cent.
Ready to Roll?
Not sure which van fits your trip? We’ve done this road trip ourselves — more than once, in fact. Whether you’re chasing surf breaks, desert stars, or eucalyptus-lined backroads, we’ll help you pick the perfect ride for your style and budget. No upsells. No BS. Just honest, road-tested advice.
Hit us up — we’ll help you pick the perfect ride (at no extra cost).
FAQs About Campervan Rental Costs in Australia
What’s the minimum rental period for campervans in Australia?
Most companies require 5-7 days during peak season and 3-5 days during off-peak. Shorter rentals may incur a $50-100 fee. Apollo Camper offers more flexibility during quieter months.
Do I need an international driver’s license in Australia?
If your license is in English, you typically don’t need an international permit. For non-English licenses, you’ll need an International Driving Permit or official translation. According to Australia.gov.au, you must have held your license for at least 12 months.
What’s the typical insurance excess for campervan rentals?
Standard insurance usually comes with a high excess of $3,000-7,500. Premium coverage packages ($25-45/day extra) can reduce this to $0-500. Third-party insurance often offers better value.
Are there age restrictions for renting campervans?
Most companies require drivers to be at least 21, with surcharges ($25-50/day) for drivers under 25. Some premium motorhomes are only available to drivers 25+ according to Drive Australia.
How much should I budget for fuel?
As a rule of thumb:
- Small campervans: approximately $15-20 per 100km
- Mid-size campervans: approximately $18-25 per 100km
- Large motorhomes: approximately $25-35 per 100km
The RACQ Fuel Price Report provides current prices across Australia.
