41 Tips to know BEFORE Planning A Queensland Road Trip!

Does planning a Queensland Road Trip sound like a dream? With the Beaches, Great Barrier Reef, waterfalls and the red dirt in the Outback, it certainly could be.

But, if you want to avoid wasting money, utilise your time more effectively, and not getting stuck in the middle of nowhere, then this blog post is for you.

After more than 30 years road tripping Queensland, both Matt and I have made costly mistakes, missed hidden gems and underestimated distances. So, the post below will detail my best tips and everything I wish someone told me before planning a road trip around Queensland.

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My Best Queensland Road Trip Tips & Tricks

This guide is for curious, self-reliant travellers like you, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. I’ve put together these tips to save you time, money, and headaches, based on real road trip experiences, not just tourist brochures.

So grab your map, charge your power bank, and let’s dive into the things no one tells you, but absolutely should, before you set off on your Queensland road trip.

⏱️ Short on Time?

Below is a post summery and an overview of what you’ll learn from the following tips! If this covers something of interest to you, then please read on for more detailed information.

• Save money with tips on fuel, food, camping, and avoid purchasing tours or activities I see as tourist traps.
• Plan smarter with real advice on distances, drive times, road conditions, navigating road tolls, and accommodating detours.
• Camp confidently from free camps to national parks and must-know permit rules.
• Choose the right ride between 2WD vs 4WD, hiring a camper, and gear you actually need.
• Stay safe on how to avoid crocs, drive safely at dusk, and deal with outback roads.
• Stay clean & comfy with tips on showers, caravan parks, hostels, and booking fixed accommodations.
• Eat on a budget by cooking your own meals, hitting up local markets, and packing snacks.
• Be outback ready with road conditions, wildlife, sun safety, insect repellent, first aid, and always carry water.
• Spot wildlife (yes, even elusive koalas) and avoid dangerous jellyfish zones.
• Know the best time to visit and how peak season or weather changes can impact your trip.

Save more time by watching the video below instead!

However, If you need help marking out your stops, activities or things to do in Queensland, please click for my maps:

• on the Brisbane to Cairns attractions,
• or here for my best stops in the outback.

➡Fuel, Vehicles, National Park Campsites, Permits

1. Fuel Costs

Fuel costs are a significant factor to consider when planning a road trip in Queensland. The state’s vastness and remote areas mean that fuel prices can vary dramatically, often being higher in less populated regions.

I’ve seen prices ranging from $1.60 to $2.00 per litre for a standard vehicle, and we’ve paid up to $2.50 per litre for the four-wheel drive. This is increased in the outback areas by as much as $3.00 per Litre due to logistical challenges and increased transportation costs.

For travellers, this means budgeting for fuel expenses is crucial, especially if your journey takes you through Outback or regional areas that are far from major cities.

Know that phone apps like “FuelMap” and “PetrolSpy” can help you plan in advance on Queensland locations and show you which service station is the cheapest before you even get there.

You can also save the Shopper Dockets from grocery stores to get you 4 cents a litre off on your Fuel purchase. This I get from signing up to the Flybys program, which I also collects points and use for free fuel.

If you’re hiring a car, fuel efficiency becomes an important consideration. Choosing a vehicle suited to your needs against the one offering better mileage can help mitigate some of the costs.

2. 4WD vs Standard Vehicle

While a 4WD vehicle isn’t always necessary for travelling in Queensland, it can be indispensable for certain regions and activities. Especially true when trying to explore the four largest sand islands in the world, which are all located here in Queensland.

As a whole, know that 99% of the coastal roads are sealed. These routes are suitable for standard 2WD vehicles, allowing for easy access for everyone, to popular coastal destinations.

However, when venturing into the Outback or remote areas, the terrain and road conditions can vary significantly. Roads can narrow to single-lane two-way traffic and become corrugated or dirt tracks, making driving more challenging.

Also, if you’re planning to visit some national parks, a 4WD vehicle is crucial due to the rough and sandy tracks. However, popular ones might have organised tours to take care of the vehicle for you.

3. National Park Campsites

Queensland National parks offer an affordable alternative for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in nature without breaking the bank. These campsites are currently $7.25 per adult per night or $29 for a family, which can be booked on the website online.

However, it’s essential to note that national parks often come with certain limitations.

Many of these sites are quite basic, lacking amenities such as power and running water. Plus, some have a mandatory requirement for a port-a-loo or toilet.

This means campers need to be self-sufficient, bringing their own water supplies and access could require a 4WD vehicle. Especially in areas with rough terrain or in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

Despite these challenges, national park campsites offer a unique and rewarding experience. We’ve enjoyed places like Booloumba Creek, Kinkuna Beach, Bribie Island, Fraser Island and hope to do more soon.

4. Beach & Camping Permits.

When planning a beach driving adventure in Queensland, it’s important to know that permits are required to access certain beaches, particularly those within national parks.

If you own a 4WD vehicle, you can book most of these permits through the Queensland National Park website. Just know that permits for driving on the beach are different from camping permits, and if you’re staying overnight, you will need BOTH.

These permits are normally issued for a specific time period, ensuring the sustainable and organised use, without overcrowding. Some examples could be beach driving from Noosa to Double Island Point or the Cooloola Coast, taking a car to Fraser Island, and the Bribie Island National Park.

The process is straightforward online with a weekly, monthly or yearly visits and you’ll need to specify the dates it’s starting.

It’s advisable to book your permits in advance, but generally we only do this a week or a few days out. However, if you’re camping, this might need to be planned earlier.

➡Food, Camp Vs Accom, Free Campsites, Brisbane

5. Buying Food.

Food prices in small towns can be higher than in larger cities. This compares larger supermarket chains against local independent or convenience stores.

Small local grocery stores often rely on limited suppliers, have increased operating costs and smaller purchasing power. Foodworks, SPAR, IGA’s and independent stores will suffice for essentials and some luxury items, but you will pay higher costs for them.

While they may offer convenience, this price difference can quickly add up, especially for road trippers in Queensland spending extended periods in remote areas.

Therefore, I highly recommend stocking up on essentials and non-perishable items in major cities, at places like Coles and Woolworths, where prices are generally lower.

Start with planning a detailed shopping list of the essentials, including snacks, canned goods, beverages, and other staples, to purchase in advance.

Do you need help planning your trip to Queensland? Book a one-on-one consultation call with me, to get your questions answered & personalised help!

6. Camping Vs Accommodation

Free and cheap campsites are everywhere in Australia. So, opting for camping while road tripping in Queensland can cut down accommodation costs, which can be a major expense otherwise.

Apps like Wikicamps and Campermate can help round down your options for sites, as well as facilities and locations.

However, it is essential to weigh these savings up against the initial investment in camping gear. Since purchasing or renting quality equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and cooking supplies, even a campervan, it can all add to your upfront costs.

Keep in mind they can often be fully booked (along the Coast), especially during peak travel seasons. So, it’s always good to have a backup plan or extra cash for more expensive parks. Especially since you can be fined for camping where it’s not allowed.

7. Free campsites

Not all free campsites in Queensland offer ample facilities such as showers and toilets, which can be a major consideration for travellers.

While the cost savings are attractive, the absence of basic amenities like drinking water, shower and a toilet may pose challenges, especially for longer stays. Plus relying on free campsites can be risky due to their popularity.

Secondly, while I think Queensland is ideally safe for travelling, some free campsites may not be the safest option.

You might find the lack of security measures can leave campers vulnerable to theft or even wildlife encounters. Which is not really the best option for a solo traveller on their first time in Australia.

Ultimately, while free campsites can be a great way to save money, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons. Ensure you have adequate camping gear and supplies to compensate for the lack of facilities and prioritise your safety over cost.

8. Staying in Brisbane.

When budgets are tight, staying in Brisbane can seem daunting due to the high accommodation costs. However, there are alternative strategies to explore urban areas without overspending.

There are different areas in Brisbane to choose from, but you can opt for accommodations in the city outskirts. This includes taking advantage of the Public Transport and the current cheap 50 cent One-way fares.

Using buses, Ferry’s, trains, or trams, travellers can conveniently commute to Brisbane CBD, or even the Gold or Sunshine Coast to explore landmarks, museums, and vibrant neighbourhoods without the hefty price tag of central accommodations.

➡  Compare prices for accommodation HERE with Booking.com

Another approach is to find reasonably priced hotels within the city. This requires a little more research and planning, but in many cases, I’ve found Budget hotels for $150 a night with decent amenities. Additionally, a hotel close to the Brisbane Airport will be convenient, if you’re flying in and out from here.

Look out for Discount websites, and Genius Membership with Booking.com often provide deals and promotions, which can include a decent Breakfast. Additionally, considering off-peak travel times or checking for last-minute offers can further reduce costs.

➡Wild Animals, Cooking, Peak Season, Tourist Traps

9. Finding Koalas & Kangaroos in the Wild

Yes, you can find Koalas & Kangaroos in the wild.

Koalas aren’t the easiest to spot and I’m often only seeing them, after someone else has already done the hard work. I find it particularly challenging even in common habitats due to their camouflaged fur and tendency to stay high up in eucalyptus or Gum trees.

If you are looking for common spots, I’ve personally seen them in the Noosa National Park when hiking to the Fairy Pools, as well as the Forts walking Trail on Magnetic Island. We even saw one high in the trees on Stradbroke Island.

On the other hand, Kangaroo’s you’ll spot in the early mornings/ late afternoons feeding in grassy fields or on the highway roads. But you can get closer to ones more familiar with people at the Cape Hillsborough experience.

If all else fails, you could try zoos like the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, Currumbin Wildlife Park on the Gold Coast or Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast.

These dedicated parks not only provide the opportunity to observe koalas and Kangaroos up close, but also contribute to their conservation and protection.

10. Cooking meals.

Cooking your own meals is a practical way to maintain your budget while travelling. Even your standard takeaway fast food can be surprisingly expensive, often costing between $15 to $30 per person.

By limiting visits to local foodie spots and opting to eat out only for special occasions or unique flavours, you can save a significant amount of money.

Consider stocking up on essentials like rice, pasta, canned goods, and fresh vegetables at local supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths. These ingredients can be transformed into delicious meals with minimal effort.

If you’re camping, portable stoves and grills can make cooking easy as well as meal planning and bulk cooking can reduce costs. Same goes for booking simple motels that come with a microwave.

However, don’t miss out on all the local delicacies and plan for a once-a-week treat night to indulge your taste buds.

11. Peak Season

Know that Queensland is a year-round holiday destination.

Summertime from December to February brings the overseas tourists, while the Winter from June to August is flooded with Aussies from the southern states.

Trying to avoid peak season travel is a wise decision, but you especially have work around School and Public Holidays for several reasons.

• The demand for accommodations, activities, and dining options skyrockets.
• This surge leads to inflated prices that can quickly deplete your travel budget.
• Furthermore, the influx of traveller’s result in increased traffic on the roads,
• which in turn heightens the likelihood of accidents and road delays.

Since the Holiday dates change every year, you can look them up online, to plan around it.  However, if you can’t avoid it, at least you have your expectations in check and can accommodate them.

12. Tourist Traps.

While the Great Barrier Reef outer pontoon tours are often advertised as the ultimate experience, they can be quite costly and, at times, I find not worth the hefty price tag.

These tours usually involve extensive travel, and you won’t often find the best coral. This enjoyment is seriously diminished, when you have bad weather conditions.

My blog post on the downsides of a pontoon tour will go into more detail on this,

But an alternative that suits both budget and convenience is to explore the inner reef areas.

Not only are they cheaper and take less time to get there, they still offer a lot of marine life and coral formations that rival those of the outer reef.

These include sites like Green Island, Fitzroy Island, Inner Reef areas and the Low Isles, along with Southern areas like Lady Musgrave Island & Lady Elliot Island. All of them provide accessible snorkelling and diving experiences to help tick off the Aussie Bucketlist adventure.

➡Hire Vs Buy, Tolls, Seafood, Distances

13. Gear, Hire Vs Buy!

When planning your best snorkelling sites, or surfing during your travels, hiring gear can quickly become an expensive endeavour. The cost of renting equipment accumulates over time, impacting your travel budget.

To mitigate these expenses, you have two options.

• Either purchase your own equipment
• or select organised tours that include gear in their package cost.

Investing in your own gear can be a cost-effective solution, especially if you anticipate engaging in these activities regularly. However, for me, it also comes down to comfort and having it tried and tested beforehand.

While most Great Barrier Reef tours will include gear, wearing a mask that’s been used a gazillion times over the years will not be fitted to the shape of your face, and often floods as soon as you put your head under the water.

This will affect your experience and joy in the activity!

Once again, you need to weigh up your options, as carrying the extra gear for your entire trip might not be ideal either.

14. Road Tolls

When driving through Southeast Queensland, it is essential to factor in road tolls, especially in areas around Brisbane. This includes

• the Gateway Motorway,
• Logan Motorway,
• Clem Jones Tunnel (CLEM7),
• Go Between Bridge,
• Legacy Way,
• Airport link,
• and the Toowoomba Bypass.

These tolls must be paid through the LINKT website within three days of travel. This is triggered by a photograph of your vehicle’s number plate and the name listed against the registration.

If you’re renting a vehicle, then tolls are generally covered in the contract with the fees deducted from your Credit Card after notices are sent to the Car hire shop.

Failure to pay them can result in hefty fines, extra administration costs and if gone too long, license suspension, or seizing your vehicle.

If you’re planning a longer stay, then setting up an account and using a car device or tag to deduct the fees automatically, will be better for the long term.

15. Local Seafood.

When travelling through coastal towns, one of the culinary delights you should not miss is the fresh seafood. While it is true that some seafood options might not be the cheapest, the experience of tasting freshly caught fish, shellfish, and other marine delicacies is well worth the investment.

Places like Mooloolaba, Hervey Bay, Agnes Water, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Port Douglas come to mind. But, you really can’t go too wrong anywhere and I’m always taking advantage of the prawns, scallops, calamari and Barramundi.

You could always purchase you own at a local seafood market and cook it yourself to save some coin.

16. Distances are HUGE.

Queensland is massive, covering an area of approximately 1.8 million square kilometres or over 700 thousand square miles.

This makes it the second-largest state in Australia.

For instance, driving from Brisbane in the south to Cairns in the north along the coastal route covers a distance of about 1,700 kilometres or just over 1000 miles. This road trip alone can take around 20 hours of continuous driving.

On top of that, you can feel isolated in the Outback and sometimes without seeing another traveller for hours.

The vastness of the state also means that road conditions can vary, and it’s wise to check for any road closures, especially during the wet season when floods can disrupt travel plans.

➡Roads, Drive times, Detours, Dusk/Dawn, Fuel

17. Outback Roads

Travelling through Queensland’s outback roads demands caution and preparation, as these routes can be met with unexpected challenges.

The terrain often includes potholes, dirt tracks, and wandering wildlife, making driving risky, especially during dusk and dawn, and even more risky at night.

Staying alert is crucial, and frequent stops to rest or swapping drivers can help with fatigue and enhance safety.

Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for the rugged roads. Carry essential supplies, including extra fuel, water, and a spare tyre, as petrol stations can be hours apart and basic services may be scarce in remote areas.

In the end, I find it’s always best to allow extra time for travel and unexpected delays.

18. Planning Drive times

Overall, I suggest planning shorter driving days with a max of 200-300 kilometres per day. This helps to avoid road fatigue and scheduling the must-see locations.

When you are road tripping for stops between Brisbane to Cairns, I think you need a minimum of 10 to 14 days. And even that’s a fully packed itinerary schedule for your group.

While you can do it in a shorter time frame, I think it’s too rushed, and you’ll miss some incredible spots. Although, you could adjust it to a 10 day Itinerary between Brisbane and Airlie Beach.

Surprisingly, we spent 2 weeks exploring the amazing stops between Cairns and Cooktown. While this is only a few hundred kilometres, the many attractions warrant a slower travel just to fit it all in.

As for the road trip stops in Outback Queensland, each of our 3 trips have been 2 weeks long, and we still haven’t seen it all.

I find this area better suited for the slow travellers, that have more time to sit back and take it all in. However, if you like that raw, untouched landscape, then it is worth planning to see some of highlights.   

19. Detours to less popular attractions

Just because something isn’t on the main route, it doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it.

You’ll often find some of these places with less people and even more beautiful, especially if there is a hiking trail to get there.

While travelling the Brisbane to Cairns route, almost every small town worth stopping at isn’t located on the highway. Plus, If you’re going to tick off any of the fantastic beaches in Queensland (did you know there are 1700 of them?), then you have to drive a little more.

As for the Outback, small detours can take you to bright red sand hills near Windorah, remnants of the dinosaurs near that once roamed the earth near Winton, and quaint hot springs for swimming like Charlotte Plains Station or Mitchell Spa.

20. Driving at Dusk & Dawn.

Driving at dusk and dawn anywhere in Australia can pose certain risks. This is due to the presence of kangaroos, emu’s, wombats, echidnas or even cassowaries on the roads.

During these times, animals are more active, often crossing roads in search of food or warmth from the asphalt, which retains heat from the day.

The reduced visibility during twilight hours heightens the danger, making it difficult to spot animals until it’s too late to avoid them.

Kangaroos are particularly annoying! Even when they do see you, they will try to avoid you by jumping from one side of the road to the other. And remember that 90% of the time they travel in pairs or groups. So even if you miss one, his friend could jump out unexpectedly to surprise you, which can lead to sudden collisions.

Large animals can cause substantial vehicle damage and potential injury. I recommend planning your journey to avoid driving at these times. However, If it’s unavoidable, reducing your speed can help in spotting and reacting quicker.

21. Petrol Stations

Service or Petrol station are literally everywhere on the coastal areas, and you’ll pass one at least every hour. With this comes plenty of choices, different costs and you can be a little flexible with how low your tank gets.

However, given the large distances between petrol stations in Queensland’s Outback, it’s crucial to never let your tank go below half full.

Petrol stations can be hours apart, out of fuel, or not even open. We’ve even rocked up to an unmanned petrol bowser with a broken credit card machine, so we were unable to get fuel.

The FuelMap app can help you plan, but we tend to get fuel in almost every town. But we’ll also weigh this up against the towns size and how many Fuel Station options they have available.

Running out of fuel could leave you stranded in an isolated region, and help will be hours away. You also need to be ready for unexpected traffic delay , road closures or extra-long detours that use more fuel.

You could also carry an extra jerry can supply of fuel, to back that up!

➡Car hire, Campervans, Roadside Assist, Road Closures

22. Hiring a Car

Car rentals are generally cheaper in major cities like Brisbane or Cairns, which serve as international gateways to the rest of the state. They offer a variety of rental brands like Avis, Budget, and Eurocar at competitive prices, plus size choices from Small cars to campervans or moving homes.

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

However, be wary of the excess cost associated with one-way travel if you plan to return the vehicle to a different location. Also read the fine print on the number of Kilometres that’s included per day and if the roads your driving, are allowed.

When planning your stops and activities, weigh the options between flying between some towns against the driving. Flying can save time and energy, especially for long-distance travel, but it may limit your ability to explore remote regions and spontaneous stops.

On the other hand, driving allows for greater flexibility and the opportunity to experience the hidden gems where organised tours don’t go. They will just take longer to get there.

In the end, a standard car rental, combined with strategically planned stops and booking fixed accommodations, may offer a more economical and flexible solution.

23. Campervans

So, are campervans worth it? While they offer the convenience of combining transportation and accommodation, they come with several drawbacks.

Their high fuel consumption can increase travel costs, especially when covering long distances in Queensland. Furthermore, the size of campervans may restrict access to certain areas, limiting your ability to park close to attractions or in crowded urban settings.

Another challenge is the need for advance bookings for sites to park up for the night. Popular ones often fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Therefore, you may struggle to find a suitable spot, have to drive further for the next site, or pay for a more expensive Park.

Not to mention leading to stress and potential changes in your travel plans. Therefore, while they might seem like the perfect way to travel, it’s not going to suit everyone.

24. Roadside Assistance.

Roadside assistance is a crucial service that can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major ordeal, especially in remote areas.

We use RACQ, but you have other options with NRMA, Budget Direct, Youi and Allianz.

In remote regions, a breakdown can be particularly costly due to the distance and difficulty in accessing repair services. Roadside assistance offers a service that can save not only money, but also precious time, reducing the stress and uncertainty associated with vehicle issues.

This includes towing to a mechanic, battery jump-starts, tyre changes, and emergency fuel delivery, ensuring that you can get back on the road quickly and safely.

25. Road Closures

Checking road conditions is essential as it allows travellers to avoid areas affected and ensures safer travel routes. Please use the local News, online resources and even associated Queensland Facebook Groups for up-to-date information on roads closed.

Take particular attention to the wet season (in the Summer), which typically spans from November to April. This can bring heavy rains, lightning storms, Cyclones and flooding, especially in North Queensland.

Trees fall onto roads and floods can lead to land slips, all resulting in road closures and disrupting your travel plans.

Planning a trip during this time can be problematic and know that Tours are often cancelled due to winds and the unpredictable weather. For this reason, you might want to prepare some easy indoor games or activities, especially for the kids.

Tip: the wet season is brilliant for seeing the many Queensland Waterfalls and often the best time to visit them.

➡Showers, Caravan Parks, Hostels Vs Motels, Insects

26. Showers

While free camping offers an economical way to explore the great outdoors, it often comes with limited amenities, including the absence of showers.

One practical solution is to utilise public rest stops along major highways, roads and wild swimming holes. Many rest areas are equipped with basic facilities like toilets and occasionally showers, which are sometimes next to free camping sites.

Public pools can also be a lifesaver! Numerous towns and cities have community pools that welcome visitors for a small fee or even FREE.

Not only do these pools offer the chance to swim and cool down, but they always have shower facilities available for use. This includes the Streets Beach pictures below at South Bank in the middle of Brisbane, or the Settlement Cove Lagoon at Redcliffe.

If all else fails, you might consider portable shower solutions, such as solar showers, or we have a USB-chargeable Shower that’s used with Boiled water.

27. Caravan Parks

Caravan parks, while offering a safer and more secure option for camping, can indeed be expensive. They often charge anything from $30 to $100 a night, which can quickly add up, especially for extended trips.

These parks typically provide a range of amenities such as power, water, and waste disposal, making them a comfortable choice for travellers.

The convenience and security they offer can make the higher cost worth it. But, for budget-conscious travellers, balancing the use of caravan parks with other cheaper alternatives like national park campsites or free camping areas can help manage costs.

Some examples of Caravan Parks we’ve stayed at along the coast are Noosa Northshore, Sandstone Point near Bribie Island, Cape Hillsborough, Flinders Beach on Stradbroke Island, and NRMA in Agnes Water .

So, I would recommend using them every few nights, or once a week for a decent shower, to wash your clothes and fill up your water tanks.

28. Backpacker Hostels Vs Cabins/Motels

While backpacker hostels may initially appear to be an economical choice, they often lack the security and privacy that travellers crave or hidden costs.

• You can’t leave expensive gear unattended,
• there might be sleepless nights with noisy socialising or snoring,
• and one hostel, I’ve even had to hire the sheets and blankets.

I’ve stayed in plenty of hostels over the years, but since I’m not in my 20’s, it’s not really my scene anymore. However, the social aspect is amazing if you’re looking to find friends and meet like-minded people.

As an alternative, Cabins in caravan parks can offer fixed accommodation, demountable buildings or tiny homes with basic amenities that ensure comfort without breaking the bank. Additionally, motels can serve as reliable, low-cost accommodation, particularly for short stays.

I’ve often picked up either Cabins or Motels for around $80 to $120 a night, and even better when you are sharing the cost with a friend or partner.

Unlike hostels, motels and cabin rentals typically do not have hidden fees and require minimal cleaning before departure.

29. Insect Repellent

I’m always the first person to get eaten alive when the Mozzies come out, so packing insect repellent is a crucial aspect of preparing for any Queensland road trip.

However, this is particularly the case at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes, miggies and sandflies are most active. But, I’ve also seen it change with yearly seasons, or if stagnant water is around.

Their bites can cause itching, irritation, and in some cases, allergic reactions, which can detract from the enjoyment of your surroundings.

Opting for repellents containing DEET, or essential oils like citronella and eucalyptus can provide effective protection. But, wearing long sleeves and pants can also help.

➡Crocodiles, Camp limits, Markets, Water, Cooking

30. Salt Water Crocodiles.

North Queensland is renowned for its saltwater crocodiles, particularly from Rockhampton northwards. This region is teeming with these predators, making it imperative to take necessary precautions when camping near or swimming in the water.

Avoid searching for isolated water sources, as these areas are often prime crocodile habitats.

Swimming alone or during night time is highly discouraged, and always consult with a lifeguard or local authorities to determine if it is safe to swim in certain areas.

31. Free camping Limits.

While you might find free camping spots in various towns, it is important to be aware that many of these locations have limits on how long you can stay, typically ranging from 24 to 48 hours.

These restrictions help manage the availability of free camping resources and ensure that as many travellers as possible can benefit from them.

This means, you should always check local regulations beforehand and comply with the posted limits to avoid fines. This way, you can effectively map out your journey and avoid any surprises.

32. Local Markets

Almost every town along the coast hosts a local market on the weekends, providing a valuable opportunity to purchase fresh produce directly from local growers. Here, you’ll find that fresh fruits and vegetables are often of better quality and cheaper than those in larger supermarkets.

This supports small-scale farmers and the local economy.

Fruits and vegetables are typically harvested at peak ripeness, ensuring superior taste and nutritional value. Apart from that, you could pick up unique souvenirs to take home or other necessities like clothes, shoes or flavoured additives for your food.

33. Water Supply.

When travelling, always carry water, whether in bottles or a refillable container. While you can find water in every town, it’s not always drinkable or taps might be blocked from using it (pictured here).

Signs will generally display non-potable water, and this is only suitable for washing your hands or showering.

Also, some outback towns water supply is sourced from the Great Artesian Basin and contain a slight sulphur smell, which often needs boiling before you drink.

Carrying your own supply ensures that you always have access to safe drinking water. This is essential for staying hydrated or avoiding bugs and gastro illnesses.

34. Portable Stove or BBQ gear

Even when we are using Motels or booking cheap fixed accommodation, we’ll often bring a Portable stove. These can be invaluable when it comes to quick meals or reheating food, when you don’t have a microwave in your room.

Not only that, their compact size and ease of use make them ideal for Roadside picnic spots. These areas often come equipped with toilets, tables, benches, and sometimes even shelters.

So, save your pennies and use it for a fresh cup of coffee or a planned meal break.

➡Snacks, Fatigue, Travel Time, Best time to visit

35. Road Trip Snacks

With any road trip spanning more than a few days, ensuring that you have a supply of snacks is crucial. Unfortunately, roadhouse or service station food is overpriced and often lacks quality, with many items sitting in hot boxes for hours, and lacks nutritional value.

Leave your snack buying for the Supermarkets to not only save money but also take advantage of the variety and healthier options.

We tend to stick to dried fruits, nuts, Jerky and even canned drinks to keep us going between meals.

36. Driver Fatigue.

I mentioned the 200 to 300 daily kilometre limit before, and there are a couple of reasons for this. Long driving days can

• impair reaction times,
• reduce attention,
• and increase the likelihood of accidents.

Shorter driving days give you the opportunity to

• relax,
• stretch your legs,
• and reduce driver’s fatigue
• or monotonous conditions.

Therefore, a stop at a scenic location not only provides a mental and physical rest, but also enrich the overall travel experience.

This strategy is particularly effective along the Brisbane to Cairns route, where there are hundreds of coastal stops. However, the Outback area might need more or take advantage of changing drivers.

37. Extra Travel time

I’m constantly using Google Maps for travel times, but I also know you should allocate extra time for delays. This includes Road works, bathroom stops, congested traffic, and slower vehicles are common.

The A1 Bruce highway between Brisbane and Cairns is one of the busiest roads in Australia. With that, comes the constant need for improvements, changes and repairs.

In the 30 years I’ve been travelling this road, I don’t think there ever been a time, I haven’t been stopped for some reason.

As for the Outback, dirt and corrugated roads make it hard to calculate the speed you’ll be driving. In the end, use Google Maps as an estimation, and allocate extra time to your Itinerary planning.

38. Best time to visit?

Everyone thinks the Summertime is the best time to travel to Queensland. While that might be the case for some people, others might not handle the hot and humid weather.

During the Summer, average temperatures in North Queensland typically range from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F). However, the high humidity can make it feel even hotter.

The air becomes thick and sticky, making it uncomfortable to be outside for extended periods. On the plus side, this does make places like Millaa Millaa Falls swimming better and actually, more refreshing.

The southern areas of the state are a little more bearable, but as a local to Brisbane, you can still crave the Air-Conditioning in your hotel room, shopping centres or cafes.

We tend to travel Queensland during the shoulder seasons or throughout winter (April to October). This works well for crowds, as long as it’s not on the school holidays and temperatures & rainfall are more tolerable than the Summer.

➡Jelly Fish, Sun protection, First Aid

39. Jellyfish / Stingers

While swimming is the best way to stay cool in the Summertime, this is also the high season for the dangerous jellyfish or stingers called the Box and Irukandji.

This season runs from November to May, with the highest risks from December to March and you can read more about the Jellyfish in north Queensland here.

Everyone in the Northern areas like Cairns, Port Douglas and Airlie Beach are given Lycra stinger suits whenever booking the Great Barrier Reef tours and you should only swim in lifeguarded or netted areas.

I’ve been living in the southern area for most of my life and while there is much less risk in this part of the state, you do need to consider it.

40. Sun Protection.

You might be thinking that Summertime is the only time you need sunscreen or other preventatives. But, I’m here to tell you that while the sun can be scorching in the Summer, it’s also easy to burn in the winter and you still need to consider the same measures.

So, it doesn’t matter if you’re in the Northern areas closer to the Equator, the southern locations, or even more so, in the Outback.

Please wear sunscreen, hats, Rash shirts and using sunglasses are all excellent ways to shield your skin from harmful effects. Sunscreen should be applied generously and frequently, especially if you are spending extended periods outdoors or in the water.

41. First Aid Kits

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is indispensable, especially when your itinerary includes hiking, visiting national parks, or exploring wild swimming holes. The unpredictable nature of these environments necessitates readiness for any mishaps.

These kits are available at any local pharmacy like Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and Terry White & Chemmart. Which is better purchased in the larger cities like Brisbane and Cairns.

They are suitable for minor cuts and blisters to more serious injuries like sprains. This can sometimes include temporary solutions before visiting a hospital, which could be hours away.

Wrap Up!

After reading all these tips, you’re well on your way to planning the best Queensland road trip for you and your group of travellers.

Thanks so much for reading the whole way through this post and if you after more resources, please click here for the rest of my Queensland articles. This will help with your itinerary planning and research.

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• Is Australia Boring? Reasons why it’s Not with Photo’s
• Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Stops & Itinerary
• Sydney Vs Brisbane – Which is Better to visit?
• Fun things to do in the Blue Mountains/Katoomba
• 5 Day Sydney Itinerary for First-time Tourists