Flights may not be cheap, and they are certainly the definition of long haul, but once you are there and have settled in to your motorhome then the whole country is at your fingertips. Motorhome rental is offered by many companies, so shop around to find the best deal. It might be simpler to book a combined flight and rental package, but you could save money by making your own reservations for flights, connections and vehicle rental. Doing it this way gives you more choice of vehicle, as there are plenty of motorhomes available, all with varying capacities and layouts that will suit different groups.

Tent camping in Australia is an option, but it is best to have the comfort and security of a motorhome, as camping sites are very spread out and remote, especially in the outback areas. You can always erect a tent by your camper if you want to sleep outdoors, but do be aware of the wildlife and potential dangers around you. Camping with a motorhome also means you have your own facilities for cooking and washing, and can carry enough water with you, which is especially important when travelling through the desert areas in central Australia.

When visiting the more remote areas it is a good idea to book your pitches ahead of time, and give an expected arrival date. That way, if you run into difficulty along the way at least someone will be expecting you, and can raise the alarm if you don’t show up. For this reason it is vital that you keep reserved sites informed about any changes to your plan, so they don’t send off a search party looking for you.

Despite the high level of planning involved in touring Australia, it is one of the best ways to see the country, and visit the most remote areas as well as the coasts and small islands that dot the shore. You can travel from a city into the outback in half a day, and experience a totally different lifestyle, although you will find that the Australian sense of humour, and laid back attitude pervades throughout this vast country. If you want to do a camping tour of Australia then take at least a month off work to do it properly. That way, you can really enjoy your non travelling days and relax into your holiday, whereas a two-week break may end up being rushed, and you won’t have fully adapted to the time difference.

Another good idea is to ask family and friends that have visited Australia to suggest places they think you would like to visit, and any must-see locations (apart from the obvious!) that should be worked into your itinerary. If you have relatives or friends in Australia why not meet up with them and ask them to join you on your camping trip? Local knowledge is invaluable, and it gives your friends a chance to experience the tourist trail in their own country; something they probably have never done.

If you have been inspired to book an overseas camping holiday then do make sure your travel documents and driving licence are in order well before you go; visas can take a while to come through, and the earlier you book the more planning you can do to ensure you get the most out of your holiday, but most of all, enjoy yourself!