Exploring Australia by road in a motorhome hire is a bucket list experience for many travellers. In particular, motorhome hire from Sydney offers the perfect way to embark on an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to campervan holidays, a campervan gives you the flexibility and comfort to explore at your own pace. From stunning coastal drives to rugged inland escapes, here are some of what we believe to be the best one-way campervan hire trips from Sydney, featuring must-see road trip destinations.
Best One-Way Campervan Hire Trips from Sydney
1. Sydney to Brisbane
The journey from Sydney to Brisbane is a quintessential Australian road trip that combines sun, surf, and scenic beauty. Spanning over 900 km, this route offers an array of road trip destinations perfect for motorhome enthusiasts.
Begin your motorhome hire Sydney journey by heading north along the Pacific Highway. Make your first stop at the charming Central Coast, where towns like Terrigal and The Entrance offer a mix of beautiful beaches, cafes, and coastal walks. Continuing up the coast, Port Stephens beckons with its stunning bays, sand dunes, and opportunities for dolphin watching.
Port Macquarie is a highlight of the trip, boasting picturesque beaches, a vibrant dining scene, and the renowned Koala Hospital. Spend some time exploring the coastal walks or take a dip in the inviting waters. Further north, Coffs Harbour offers family-friendly attractions like the iconic Big Banana and breathtaking coastal vistas.
A few decades ago, Byron Bay was synonymous with alternative culture, laid-back surfers, and off-the-grid hippies. Today, while more refined, it remains just as beautiful. Iconic surf breaks and serene yoga retreats honor its bohemian roots, while award-winning restaurants, luxury beach houses, and craft breweries add modern charm. From backpackers to Hollywood celebrities, Byron Bay continues to captivate all who visit.
When you reach Brisbane, you’ll find a vibrant city with a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty and it’s a perfect place to extend your campervan hire and explore for a few more days. You could even go as far as extending your hire and visiting the Sunshine Coast where the coastline is littered with amazing beaches and head inland for the tranquil hinterlands and quaint little towns. Check out more trips with Brisbane campervan hire, which is a gateway to many Queensland Adventures.
2. Sydney to Melbourne via the Coastal Route
The Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive is a classic road trip destination that showcases Australia’s diverse landscapes. This route takes you through charming coastal towns, pristine beaches, and the lush greenery of national parks, making it ideal for one-way campervan hire adventures.
Start your journey by collecting your motorhome hire in Sydney, before heading south to the beautiful beaches of Jervis Bay. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and the soft, white sands of Hyams Beach, it’s an idyllic place to unwind and enjoy water activities like snorkeling or kayaking. As you continue south, stop by the charming coastal town of Batemans Bay, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere.
The Sapphire Coast is another gem along this route. Narooma’s turquoise waters and the stunning views from Bar Rock Lookout make it a must-see. Consider detouring inland to the Blue Mountains for a couple of days to experience its sandstone ridges and lush bushland. It’s a haven of natural beauty. Explore walking trails winding through valleys and cliffs, discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, and visit Scenic World for iconic views. By night, spot glow worms in caves or unwind in a luxurious wilderness retreat. Whether mist-shrouded or bathed in sunset hues, the Blue Mountains’ views are truly breathtaking.
Crossing into Victoria, the Gippsland region welcomes you with picturesque countryside and the expansive Ninety Mile Beach. It’s a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and peaceful beach strolls. Finally, as you reach Melbourne, explore its vibrant cityscape and a great excuse to extend your trip and venture further to the Great Ocean Road for even more coastal beauty.
3. Sydney to Adelaide via the Scenic Route
For a more adventurous road trip, consider travelling from Sydney to Adelaide. This route offers diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to expansive outback scenery. Along the way, if you are interested in Australian political history, you could stop by Canberra to explore its cultural and historical attractions. Here you will find the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and Parliament House making it a worthwhile detour.
Continuing your journey, pass through Wagga Wagga, a vibrant regional city known for its art galleries, gardens, and farm-to-table dining experiences. As you head further west, the Murray River region comes into view. Renmark and Mildura are fantastic stops to enjoy riverside camping, paddle-steamer cruises, and fresh produce from local markets.
As you near Adelaide, take the time to explore the Barossa Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Sample world-class wines, indulge in gourmet food, and soak up the picturesque vineyard scenery. Upon arriving in Adelaide, you’ll find a city rich in culture, with bustling markets, botanical gardens, and nearby attractions like the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island (written permission is required which we can help you with).
Why Choose One-Way Campervan Hire?
One-way campervan hire is a game-changer for travellers who want to maximize their time and experiences. Instead of doubling back to your starting point, you can drop off your vehicle at your destination, saving time and fuel. This flexibility allows you to explore further and visit more diverse locations.
For example, you can start your motorhome hire in Sydney and end your journey in Brisbane, Melbourne, or Adelaide, depending on your travel goals. This approach also opens up opportunities to discover hidden gems and take the scenic route without the pressure of returning to your origin.
Tips for Motorhome Travel
Plan Your Route: While spontaneity is part of the fun, having a rough itinerary ensures you don’t miss key road trip destinations.
Book in Advance: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Chat with our knowledgeable staff to find you the perfect campervan and bets time to visit your destinations.
Pack Smart: Bring a soft bag instead of hard suitcases as they can fold down and save on storage space.
Motorhome hire in Sydney is your gateway to some of the most scenic and memorable road trips in Australia. Whether you choose a coastal journey to Melbourne, a tropical escape to Brisbane, or an adventurous trip to Adelaide, these one-way campervan trips offer endless possibilities for exploration. Don’t forget to include detours to iconic destinations like Byron Bay, the Blue Mountains, and Canberra for a truly enriching experience.
Pack your bags, gather your road trip playlist, get in touch with our Australian motorhome holiday specialists for a motorhome hire quote and hit the open road. With the freedom and flexibility of a motorhome, every destination becomes a new opportunity to create unforgettable memories.