Hiring a campervan is a great way to see Australia on a small budget.
It also allows you to enjoy a flexible schedule where you can experience the open road without the constraints normally experienced on a tour bus.
Indeed, campervan hire allows you to travel in relative comfort and freedom. Hiring a campervan is simple where Mighty offers cheap affordable options and Maui Motorhome Hire is also a preferred dealer.
If you are traveling on a shoestring and it's your first trip in a campervan, here are 6 tips to help you stick to your budget while out on the open road.
1. Make sure you get the right campervan size
Many first-time campervan travelers assume bigger is better, but bigger campervans usually come with a hefty price tag. They are also harder to drive if you are not used to driving a big vehicle.
Instead, choose a campervan that will fit all your gear and allow everyone to be comfortable. You're probably not planning to spend all your time in the campervan so you don't need a lot of space.
2. Sign up for camp-site loyalty programs
Of course, with a campervan, you have the freedom to spend the night wherever you wish, but if you want that bit of extra security, many caravan parks across Australia have loyalty clubs and programs that cost little or nothing to join and can save you a bundle on your nightly stays.
3. Ask your campervan company about the fuel efficiency of their cars
Fuel costs can really eat into your budget, especially if your trip will end up being more than 5,000km.
Check sites like fuelwatch.com.au, which can help you find the cheapest refueling option in your current location. As a precaution, always carry a can of extra fuel onboard, especially if you are heading to the Outback.
4. Plan your grocery needs a week out
Fuel stops and campsite restaurants are rarely the cheapest option - the grocery store is your best bet.
Since grocery stores aren't always nearby, plan out a week's worth of meals, including lots of items that don't require refrigeration for a full week.
5. Know the terms and conditions of your campervan contract
One common mistake many travelers make is failing to read the T's and C's. For example, driving a 2WD vehicle on non-sealed roads may void your insurance or cost you extra to hire.
In addition, returning the vehicle with an empty tank may also mean the hire company will hit you with an extra charge.
6. Know the depot hours and make sure you return your campervan on time
Returning your vehicle after-hours often means incurring a late fee or worse yet - paying for another night's stay.
Carefully plan the last few days of your trip so you can return your hired campervan to the depot in time.
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This post was brought to you by Mighty and Maui Motorhome Rental.
