Just Got Back From a 7-Day Aussie Road Trip – Here’s My Ultimate Checklist! πŸš—πŸ’¨

Just Got Back From a 7-Day Aussie Road Trip – Here’s My Ultimate Checklist! πŸš—πŸ’¨

πŸ”₯ G’day mate! Just wrapped up an epic 7-day road trip through the Outback and coastal NSW, and I’ve gotta say, having the right gear made all the difference. Let me share what I learned so you can avoid my mistakes!

πŸ—“οΈ Day 1: Prep & Departure

Started early in Sydney with a big brekkie before hitting the road. Checked tyre pressure, oil, and packed the essentials. First stop: Blue Mountains for a quick hike and lunch at the lookouts. Made it to Lithgow by arvo for our first night camping. Bloody stunning sunset!

πŸ—“οΈ Day 2-3: Inland Adventure

Headed west through Bathurst to Dubbo for the Western Plains Zoo. Spent two days here – absolute ripper! Saw heaps of native wildlife and the zoo camping grounds are top-notch. Nights got cold, so glad I packed warm sleeping bags. Made a killer barbie both nights!

πŸ—“οΈ Day 4-5: Coastal Return

Drove back via Wellington and Orange, then hit the coast through Port Macquarie. Stopped at every beach lookout – sunnies essential! Found this hidden gem of a caravan park in Crescent Head. Caught some waves and had the best fish and chips of the trip. You’ll wanna spend extra time here!

πŸ—“οΈ Day 6-7: Final Stretch

Slow trip back down the coast through Coffs Harbour and Newcastle. Spent quality time at each stop, no rushing! Made it back to Sydney feeling refreshed but exhausted. The memories and photos are bloody worth every dollar spent. Already planning the next one!

πŸŽ’ What I Actually Used

Here’s my tried-and-tested essentials: 12V fridge (non-negotiable!), quality swag, portable shower, head torches (don’t forget spare batteries!), first aid kit (used it twice!), power bank, and a proper esky. The recovery tracks saved my bacon in muddy conditions!

πŸ’‘ Budget Breakdown

Total for 2 people: $1,200. Fuel: $450, Food: $300, Camping: $250, Attractions: $200. Could’ve done it cheaper with free camping, but paid sites had better facilities. Stock up on groceries before leaving Sydney – roadhouse prices are insane!

πŸ“‹ Practical Info

πŸ“ Starting point: Sydney CBD, NSW 2000
πŸš— Self-drive from Sydney, flexible route covering approx. 1,200km over 7 days
πŸ’° $1,200 total for 2 people (including fuel, food, camping, attractions)
πŸ• Best time: Spring (Sep-Nov) or Autumn (Mar-May) for mild weather
⏱️ 7 days recommended, but can extend to 10-14 days for a more relaxed pace

πŸ’‘ Tips & Warnings

βœ… Download offline maps before you leave – mobile reception disappears in the Outback
βœ… Book popular caravan parks in advance, especially during school holidays
❌ Don’t skimp on water – carry at least 20L extra per person
⚠️ Check road conditions after heavy rain – some routes become impassable

πŸš€ Planning your Aussie road trip? Drop questions below! πŸš€

#roadtrip #australia #travelguide #camping #sydney #outback #coastaldrive #adventure

Author: James Cooper
4WD touring expert and outback explorer documenting remote Australian destinations. From Cape York to the Simpson Desert, I share recovery techniques, track conditions, and camping setups for serious tourers.