Planning Your Australian Camping Route
Good route planning transforms a good camping trip into a great one. These tools and tips will help you plan routes that maximise your time in the places that matter most.
Essential Planning Apps
- Hema Explorer – Australia’s best offline mapping for remote travel
- COA OUTDOOR AI – comprehensive campground database with GPS coordinates
- Camps Australia Wide – the original campground guide now in app form
- GasBuddy – find cheapest fuel along your route
- BOM Weather – Bureau of Meteorology official weather app
- NSW Rural Fire Service, Vic Emergency, QFES – fire restriction apps by state
Planning a Remote Route
For any remote route, research road conditions through relevant state authorities. The NT, WA and Queensland governments all publish current road condition reports. Check these 48 hours before departure, not just during planning. Conditions change rapidly after rain.
Fuel Planning
In remote Australia, fuel availability is limited and prices are high. Plan fuel stops carefully and carry a jerry can for any leg where the distance between fuel stops exceeds your comfortable range. The Outback fuel stop app lists current prices and availability at remote roadhouses.
Building Your Itinerary
Build your itinerary around distance limits and booking requirements. A comfortable daily driving distance for caravans is 300-400km maximum. National park bookings must be made before you arrive. Build in rest days – the best experiences happen when you slow down and explore properly.