Calculating Your Australian Camping Trip Budget
Camping is one of Australia’s most affordable travel options, but costs add up quickly if you are not tracking them. Here is a framework for budgeting your next camping trip.
Accommodation Costs
Free camping: $0 per night. National park basic sites: $6-15 per person per night. National park facilities sites: $20-50 per night. Private campgrounds: $25-60 per night. Caravan parks powered sites: $35-90 per night. Budget an average across your trip based on your planned mix of site types.
Fuel Costs
Fuel is typically the largest expense on Australian camping trips. A caravan combination averages 14-18L per 100km. At current fuel prices, a 3,000km trip costs $600-900 in fuel alone. Remote area fuel prices can be 50-70 cents per litre higher than city prices.
Food and Supplies
Self-catering camping food costs $20-35 per person per day. Factor in ice or 12V fridge power costs. Eating out occasionally adds variety but increases costs significantly – regional towns often have excellent cafes worth visiting.
Activities and Entries
National park entry fees: $10-20 per vehicle per day, or purchase an annual pass for better value. Guided tours and experiences: $50-200 per person. Marine activities in the Whitsundays and reef areas: $150-300 per person.
Sample Budget – 2 Weeks East Coast for Two
- Accommodation: $700 (mix of free and paid)
- Fuel: $400 (3,000km)
- Food: $600 (self-catering)
- Activities: $300
- Total: approximately $2,000 for two people