Best Time to Travel Around Australia: Seasonal Routes & Expert Tips

Embarking on a journey across Australia, whether it's a few weekends away or tackling the iconic "big lap," can be a daunting task.

Whether you’re planning to do the big lap in 12 months or stretching it out over a few years, getting your timing right can make all the difference. Check out what some of our customers suggest as the best route to travel Australia and see our favourite tools for planning your trip.

Australia is massive, and while there’s no bad time to explore it, there are better times to visit certain regions. With smart planning, you’ll avoid scorching summers in the Outback, freezing winters in the South, and tropical downpours up North.

 

Planning & Resources

Before you hit the road, whether during the cooler southern winter, coastal summer, or dusty outback season,  we strongly recommend loading up your trip plan with Camps Australia Wide. Over 15,500 verified campsites, caravan parks, free camps and budget‑friendly spots across Australia are listed in their guidebooks and the app, meaning you’ll always have somewhere to stay - even when popular holiday parks are booked out. 

Their listings include full details like GPS coordinates, HEMA map codes, amenities, public dump points, pet‑friendly sites and facility info - handy if you’re towing a caravan or motorhome and need accessible, safe sites.

 

So, when’s the best time to travel around Australia? And what’s the best route to travel Australia? We asked our friends at Seaustravl, who have been travelling around Australia since 2022, for their best tips on tackling the ultimate Aussie road trip. Here’s what they suggested…. 

 

If You Have 12 Months Or Less: Follow The Seasons

If you’re planning to complete the big lap in a year or less, timing your route properly will help you experience each region at its best. Here’s the golden rule:

 

Head North from May to September 

This is the dry season for Northern Territory, North Queensland, and Western Australia. It’s the perfect time for exploring Kakadu, Cape York, and the Kimberley without the unbearable heat and humidity.

 

Travel South from October to April 

This is when Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania shine. You’ll get warm summer days without the extreme cold or wet conditions.

By following this seasonal loop, you’ll avoid the worst of the weather and make the most of your trip.

 

The Figure-Eight Route For Extended Trips

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 12 months to explore, a figure-eight route is the way to go. Instead of just circling the coastline, this route lets you experience each state at its prime while taking in the Red Centre and some of Australia’s most spectacular inland landscapes. 

 

Here’s How The Route Works:

1. Start in Southern WA, heading up the coast towards Broome.

2. Cross into the NT, exploring Kakadu and Darwin before heading south through Alice Springs and Uluru.

3. Head down into SA, visiting the Eyre Peninsula and Barossa Valley.

4. Travel east through VIC and NSW, taking in the Great Ocean Road, Melbourne, and Sydney.

5. Finish in North Queensland, where the Daintree and Great Barrier Reef will be waiting.

This route ensures you’re always in the right place at the right time, making the most of Australia’s diverse landscapes and climates. 

Since weather, crowds and accessibility vary so much region to region, having a resource like Camps Australia Wide means you’re not reliant on guesswork or outdated info. Instead, you can reliably find budget‑friendly, verified campsites — even in remote or off‑the‑beaten‑track areas — no matter what time of year it is.

For an even deeper dive, check out Seaustravl’s YouTube video, where they share their top route secrets and expert insights!

 

The Best Time To Visit Each State

If you’re planning your own route or want to do a shorter trip, here’s a handy guide to the best time to travel Australia by state:

South QLD & NSW: October - November

North QLD: Aug - Sept 

TAS: December - Jan

SA: March - Feb

WA: March - June

NT: June - July 

 

 

Plan Smart, Travel Happy

Whether you’re aiming to complete the big lap in a year or taking your time, knowing the best time to travel Australia and choosing the best route to travel Australia can make your trip unforgettable. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Plus, don't forget to check out the Camps Australia Wide resource - download the app or grab the guidebook, plan your route around their mapped sites, and travel Australia with confidence.

Our RV travel experts are here to help. Call us at any time to find the perfect RV products for your travels no matter the season! Contact us on 1800 787 278. 

 

DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.