How to Find the Best Camper for Your Road Trip in Australia

It’s worth thinking about what you actually need before you book. The right camper for a two-week coastal trip is very different from a four-week outback loop – and a bit of thought upfront goes a long way. 

Here’s what to consider before locking in your wheels. 

Group size

Who’s in the crew?

If it’s just you – easy. Grab a small sleeper and you’re sorted. Travelling as a couple? A high top is a great option – gives you that bit more space to cook, chill, and not live on top of each other. Got kids with you? You’ll probably want something with more room and maybe a bathroom onboard.

How long you’re hitting the road for?

If it’s a week or two, you can get away with a smaller setup.

But anything longer than that – you may wish to consider more space. Standing room, somewhere to cook a proper meal, and storage so you’re not climbing over bags every time you need something.

Doing the East Coast? West Coast? Looping the whole of Oz? You will probably want a van that’s built for long missions. 

Budget

Are you splashing out or stretching every dollar?

If you’re tight on coin, start with the budget 2-seaters. They’re simple, affordable, and get the job done.

Got a bit more to play with? High tops hit a nice sweet spot – more comfort without a huge jump in price. 

And if you’re going all-in or it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip – motorhome. Everything you need and more. It’s basically your apartment on wheels.

Whatever your budget – RatPack sorts you out with the best deals. 

Comfort vs. Adventure

What’s the priority?

Do you want something comfy with all the gear? Somewhere to chill after a big day, cook up a feed, watch a movie, live the full vanlife vibe?

Or are you out there for the mission – off-grid campsites, red dirt tracks, dirt under your fingernails and stargazing every night?

If it’s comfort – high top or motorhome. If it’s adventure – 4WD campers all the way.

Toilet and Shower – do you need ‘em?

Some people like to have their own shower and toilet but there are other other options  – campsites, beach showers, or you can opt for going full wild and embracing the baby wipe life. That said, toilets can be handy on long remote drives or if you’ve got the little ones with you. 

So… what now?

• Who am I travelling with?
• How long am I going for?
• Do I want comfort or just the basics?
• Am I sticking to the coast or going deep into the outback?
• What’s my budget?

Once you’ve got a rough idea – hit us up. Tell us your dates, where you’re heading and what matters most. We’ll match you with the right camper, a personalised quote, itinerary advice if you need it and the best deal!

Now you’ve got a rough idea of what you’re after, let’s dive into the options. 

We’ve broken down the main camper types you’ll find on Aussie roads – what they’ve got, what they don’t, and who they’re a good fit for.

Planning a longer roadie? Hitting the road with your partner, your best mate or a mini crew? Or maybe you’re a couple with a little one in tow? A Hi-Top is your mid-range hero. 

Comfy, practical, and perfect for those chasing that balance between budget and a few cheeky luxuries.

We’re talking:

• Space to stand up and move around 
• A kitchenette setup – think fridge, sink, gas stove, microwave 
• A cosy lounge area that turns into your bed
• Plenty of storage for surfboards, backpacks…all the essentials

Pros:

• Stand-up height = absolute game-changer
• Feels roomy without being a tank to drive
• Great for cooking proper meals on the road
• Easy to park in most spots – even in busy towns
• More storage than smaller campers

Cons:

• No shower – but you’ll find facilities at most campsites, and ocean dips count too, right? 
• Bigger than a sleeper van, so fuel costs are a tad higher
• Not ideal if you’re after full off-grid adventures 

Who it’s ideal for:

• Couples or mates on a 2-4 week+ Aussie road trip
• First-time campervan travellers who want comfort without blowing the budget
• Small families who don’t need an onboard shower
• Anyone who wants to feel like they’re living in their camper, not just sleeping in it

If you’re chasing a no-fuss, keep-it-simple camper, this is your ride-or-die. The 2-Seater, 2-Sleeper Campervans is the classic budget roadie setup – basically a car with a bed in the back and a kitchen in the boot. 

It’s compact, cruisy, and gets you where you need to go without emptying your bank account.

You won’t get a toilet, a TV, or a walk-in wardrobe – but let’s be honest, you’re here for the beaches, BBQs, and backpacker banter, not a luxury hotel on wheels.

We’re talking:

• Bed setup = easy peasy, ready in 10 seconds
• Slide-out kitchen at the back (think gas stove, sink + basic kitchen gear)
• Fridge or eski to keep your beers frosty
• USB charging ports for the tunes + your phone
• Enough room for your bags – but pack smart!

Pros:

• Cheap as chips – one of the most affordable ways to do your Aussie roadie
• Easy to drive + even easier to park (city centre, no worries!)
• Mega fuel efficient – more $$ for skydives, snorkel trips
• Perfect for hostel-hoppers and road trip first-timers
• Simple setup = no stress

Cons:

• Can’t stand up inside – changing clothes becomes a bit of a yoga sesh
• No toilet, no shower – but who needs one when you’ve got beach showers and campsite loos
• Tight on space – defs not the one for long-term vanlifers or those who overpack
• Rainy days = not much space to hang out indoors

Who it’s ideal for:

• Mates or couples keeping it low-key and low-cost
• Backpackers on a budget who’d rather splash their cash on skydives than swanky vans
• First-time road trippers who want something easy to drive, park and figure out
• Travellers who plan to spend most of their time outdoors, only using the van to cook, crash and cruise
• Anyone doing a shorter roadie (1-3 weeks) and happy to keep things basic

If you’re after the ultimate comfort-on-wheels setup, a motorhome is where it’s at. 

This is your full-blown rolling apartment. Kitchen, toilet, hot shower, the lot. It’s for the roadies who want it all: comfort, space, AND a bit of luxury with their sunsets and road trip playlists.

Perfect if you’re road tripping with the fam, got the little ones with you, or you’re just not into that “roughing it” vibe.

We’re talking: 

• A full kitchen setup with fridge, oven, microwave, sink – the works
• Toilet AND hot shower
• Beds that are already made (yes please)
• Proper seating and dining area
• Air con, heating, lighting – all powered up
• Plenty of storage for your gear, snacks, surfboards, and questionable hat collection
• Can sleep 2, 4, or even 6 – depending on how big you go

Pros:

• You get all the mod-cons and home comforts on the road
• No need to rely on campsite showers or shared toilets
• Great for families, long trips or anyone chasing that premium roadie lifestyle
• Weatherproof – rain, wind, heat… you’re sorted
• Heaps of room to move around and actually live in

Cons:

• They’re big – not always ideal if you’re nervous about driving something chunky
• Not super fuel efficient (but worth it if you’re travelling in a group and splitting costs)
• Can be trickier to park in smaller towns or beach car parks
• Most expensive camper option – but you’re getting a lot for it

Who it’s ideal for:

• Families with kids who want space and a bathroom onboard
• Travellers doing a longer lap of Oz or NZ
• Couples who want comfort without sacrificing flexibility
• Anyone who’s like “nah, I’m not showering at a beach tap for 4 weeks straight”

There’s a few extra bits worth checking depending on the van:

• Power & charging points
• Solar panels (handy if you’re going off-grid)
• Awning or outdoor table & chairs

The small stuff matters once you’re out on the road. And that’s where RatPack’s got your back. We’ll ask you the right questions, and make sure you don’t end up in a van that looks cute online but turns out to be a pain once you’re a week in.

We’ve helped thousands of travellers plan their Aussie and NZ roadies — and we’ve picked up a thing or two about what makes a trip really sing. Here are the tips that make the biggest difference:

Book early in peak season,

Campsites fill up. Vans sell out. Prices spike. Don’t wait. Lock it in early and thank us later.

Start with a loose plan

Even a rough route makes a huge difference when it comes to picking the right camper. You don’t need every day mapped out — just a general direction and a few must-dos.

Think value not just price

The cheapest option isn’t always the best fit for your trip. Some vans are built for weekenders, not long hauls. Chat to us and we’ll help you find the sweet spot between budget and comfort.

Get matched to the right set up

Not all campers come with the same gear — some have fridges, toilets, full kitchens, and some keep it simple. Tell us what matters to you and we’ll match you to a van that actually suits your style.

Check the bed size and standing room

A good night’s sleep makes everything better. If you’re tall or just like a bit of space, we’ve got vans with proper room to stretch out and get dressed without crouching.

Sort your insurance early

A small daily fee gives you peace of mind for the whole trip. It’s one of those things that’s easy to tick off and means you can enjoy the drive without a second thought.

Give yourself time on the road

Australia is massive — that’s part of the magic. Build in enough days to actually enjoy the stops along the way instead of rushing between them. The best bits are often the ones you didn’t plan for.

Chat to us before you book 

We’ve done the miles. Slept in the vans. Cooked in the kitchens. We know what works and what doesn’t — and we’ll make sure you get the right setup at the best price.

Bottom line?Get in touch early, tell us your vibe, and we’ll sort a setup that actually suits your trip. Hit the button, send us your travel dates, and we’ll build you a personalised camper deal — best price guarantee, and tailored to you.

We get asked a LOT of questions about camper rentals, so we’re laying it all out here.

Do I need a special licence to drive a campervan in Australia?

Nope – a full standard car licence (from most countries) will do the trick.
Just make sure it’s in English or you’ve got a certified translation.

Can I hire a camper as a solo traveller?

Absolutely. Loads of RatPackers hit the road solo. We’ll find you a setup that’s easy to drive, budget-friendly, and safe for solo adventuring.

Are one-way trips possible?

Yep – most travellers start in one city and finish in another. Being flexible on pick up and drop off locations can save you money too! We can help plan the best trip for you.

Where can I camp overnight?

• Free campsites
• Holiday parks & campgrounds

Use apps like WikiCamps or CamperMate to find the best spots.

Do I need to book campsites in advance?

In peak season – yes, especially around hot spots like Byron Bay, Noosa, or along the Great Ocean Road. Off-season? 

Can I charge my phone or laptop in the van?

Yes – most vans have USB ports and 12V plugs. Some have 240V. We’ll match you with a van that suits.

What if I need to change my dates?

Things happen – we’re flexible. Just let us know and we’ll sort it.

You’ve got the dream. We’ve got the know-how to make it happen.

Booking the right camper is what takes your roadie from decent to unreal – and that’s exactly what we do at RatPack.

We don’t just throw you a van and say “good luck.” We ask the right questions, get to know your trip, and match you with a setup that’s actually built for your route, your crew, and your vibe.

And the best part? You’ll get it cheaper than anywhere online, with real support from real travellers who’ve done it all before – beach BBQs, dusty tracks, campsite beers and all.

Get your free personalised campervan quote →