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Australia Campervan Holiday in Victoria

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Australia, Victoria is a veritable playground for campervan travellers. With everything from winding coastal road trip routes like the Great Ocean Road to the artsy alleys of Melbourne, where you can meander through art galleries and feast on great food and historic sites, it’s a state that packs a punch!

With a landscape as diverse as a well-stocked cheese board—from the cool, temperate regions of the south to the sun-kissed northwestern plains—a campervan gives you the freedom to roam and the comfort of taking your home with you. Ready to experience this diverse state for yourself? This blog is your roadmap to exploring all the eclectic charms of Victoria and making the most out of your campervan adventure with your family. But first...

 

Why explore VIC by campervan

Picture this: you’re waking up to a different view every morning—maybe today it’s the surf breaking on a pristine beach, and tomorrow it’s the rolling hills of a vineyard. That’s the beauty of exploring Victoria in a campervan. Think of a campervan trip through Victoria as the ultimate freedom ticket.

Want to linger a little longer by that stunning beach you just found or explore the vibrant city centre of Melbourne? No problem. Feel like waking up to the breathtaking views of the Grampians? Go for it. Campervans offer the flexibility to change your itinerary on the fly, discovering hidden gems along the way.

An Australia campervan holiday through Victoria is also incredibly cost-effective, saving you money on accommodation and dining since you can cook and sleep in your mobile home. Moreover, for families, the comfort and convenience of having all your essentials with you, where your vehicle doubles as your accommodation, is invaluable. This freedom to roam makes campervanning in Victoria an unbeatable way to explore everything from the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne's live music and art scene.

 

Things to do in Victoria

Ready for an action-packed itinerary full of food, events, music, history, sports events and more? Victoria has everything, from breathtaking natural landscapes to a bustling city and thriving food and festival scene. Whether you’re into hitting the surf, sampling gourmet delights, soaking up culture or simply cosying up in a cafe watching people walking by, you’re in for a treat.

You could start your day with a sunrise walk in Wilson’s Promontory, one of the southernmost points of the Australian mainland known for its stunning bushland and sea views, and end with a vibrant evening exploring Melbourne’s eclectic food markets.

Don’t miss the Queen Victoria Market, known for its high-quality fresh produce. You can also catch a performance at one of Melbourne’s renowned concert halls or simply enjoy a little live music at a local pub. The coastal lines are perfect for beach adventures, while the inner regions offer lush vineyards and breweries, particularly in areas like the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.

The state is also rich in arts and culture, especially in Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, where you can dive into the arts scene, visit art galleries, or catch a live show. What's more, this state is the home of the largest colonies of fairy penguins in the world! Phillip Island has become famous for its penguin parade tour, where you can see these little penguins return ashore at sunset. With a campervan, each of these experiences is just a drive away.

 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Budget-Friendly Campsites/Holiday Parks in Northern Territory

Welcome to the ultimate guide for budget-conscious adventurers looking to explore the Northern Territory’s (NT) natural beauty. In this guide we dive into how to travel Australia cheaply by taking advantage of the best budget-friendly camping in the NT. These holiday parks not only offer a cheap place to park your campervan but also offer fantastic amenities and a front-row seat to the breathtaking landscapes of Australia’s rugged heart. Whether you’re a solo traveller or planning an Australia road trip with friends, this guide will help you discover the perfect campgrounds in the NT for your Top End adventure. 

 

Why you should go camping in NT

Camping in the Northern Territory offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to connect with nature and explore one of the most iconic and diverse landscapes Australia has to offer. Here are several reasons why setting up camp in the campgrounds of NT should be on every adventurer’s bucket list:

  • Unique natural beauty: The NT is home to some of the most striking natural wonders in the world. As such, camping in the Northern Territory presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the most dramatic and culturally significant landscapes Australia has to offer. Imagine waking at the crack of dawn to watch the sunrise over Uluru or the hauntingly beautiful gorges of Kakadu National Park. From the arid, ochre-red deserts of the Red Centre to the lush, tropical waterfalls and expansive wetlands of the Top End, including Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park — camping in the NT allows you to wake up to breathtaking sunrises and unwind under star-studded skies, surrounded by landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else.

  • Rich Indigenous culture: The appeal of camping in the NT isn’t just in its natural beauty but also in its ability to connect you with ancient Aboriginal cultures and histories. The Northern Territory is a living cultural landscape with an Indigenous history that stretches back more than 60,000 years. Many campgrounds in the NT are close to Indigenous lands and communities, offering campers the chance to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the traditional custodians of these lands. Many campsites offer the chance to engage with this ancient heritage through guided tours, cultural performances, and art galleries.  

  • Adventure activities: For those who crave adventure, the NT delivers in spades. You can paddle through the Katherine Gorge, hike the Larapinta Trail, or go fishing in the remote wilderness of Arnhem Land. Camping at a campground in the NT provides a flexible, on-the-ground base to explore.  

  • Wildlife encounters: The region's national parks and diverse ecosystems are sanctuaries for observing Australia’s native wildlife up close. As such, your campervan camping trip might involve spotting saltwater crocodiles along the Adelaide River, bird watching in the Mary River Wetlands, or encountering the iconic red kangaroo in its natural habitat.

  • Accessibility: With well-maintained highways and a range of camping facilities along the way, travelling through the NT by campervan is simple. Campsites range from fully-equipped caravan parks with all the amenities to remote bush camps that allow you to get off the beaten track and into nature. Would you prefer to get more off the beaten path? Be sure to consider travelling in a 4WD campervan! This means you have even more freedom to explore the wild landscapes of the Northern Territory. 

In short, camping in the NT offers the chance to immerse yourself in an ancient land that offers profound natural beauty, deep cultural experiences, pulse-racing adventures (did someone say crocs?)  Plus, with a range of budget-friendly activities in Alice Springs and cost-effective things to do in Darwin, your adventure in the Northern Territory can be as affordable as it is adventurous.

 

What’s the best way to explore the Northern Territory?

When it comes to discovering the vast expanses of the Northern Territory, there is no better way than in a Cheapa Campa. The flexibility and freedom provided by a campervan allow you to explore at your own pace, visiting off-the-beaten-path locations that are often unreachable with traditional travel methods. What’s more, travelling in a campervan not only offers unparalleled convenience—allowing you to carry all your necessities and accommodations in one vehicle—but also helps significantly reduce costs. You can save on expensive remote hotel stays, eat meals on your budget, and change your itinerary on the fly without worrying about rebooking fees.

Moreover, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider planning your trip during the off-peak seasons. The Northern Territory is renowned for its distinct wet and dry seasons, and travelling during the shoulder periods can mean fewer crowds and lower prices, maximising both the comfort of your visit and your budget. By renting a travel van from Cheapa, you gain the ultimate tool to tailor an unforgettable road trip through the heart of Australia’s outback, making every kilometre count towards an incredible adventure.

Image: Instgram - @_ourgreatescape

 

The best budget-friendly campsites/holiday parks in Northern Territory

Exploring the Northern Territory doesn't have to cost a fortune. In this section, we spotlight some top picks for budget-friendly camping in the NT that combine affordability with incredible access to the NT's most iconic destinations. Whether you're after a full-service caravan park in the Northern Territory with all the amenities or a simple campground in the NT that lets you get close to nature, these options have you covered.

 

1. BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park

Located in picturesque Alice Springs, BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park serves as a prime base for travellers eager to explore the Red Centre. This park offers spacious powered sites tailored for campervans. Guests can also enjoy the on-site facilities, including a swimming pool to cool off from the inland heat and BBQ facilities for cooking up an Aussie feast. The park also offers practical amenities like a camp kitchen, laundry facilities, and an on-site convenience store. For those looking to explore the local area, bike hire and guided walking trails are available.

The park is a gateway to some of the area's most famous natural wonders, such as the nearby West MacDonnell Ranges, which is home to landmarks like Simpson’s Gap and Standley Chasm. Cultural attractions close by include the Alice Springs Desert Park and the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum. Easily accessible by campervan from the Alice Springs Cheapa Campa branch, BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park combines convenience with a range of amenities to cater to budget travellers looking for a base for their affordable adventure through Australia’s famed Outback.

 

2. Darwin FreeSpirit Resort

Located just a short fifteen-minute drive from the heart of Darwin, Darwin FreeSpirit Resort offers a tranquil escape with a touch of luxury at a budget-friendly price. This resort features everything from lush tropical gardens to swimming pools, making it a fantastic option for families and groups. Plus, it has plenty of spacious powered sites, perfect for those travelling by campervan.

This campground in the NT is also an excellent hub for exploring the Top End’s attractions and provides a convenient launching point for exploring the nearby Litchfield National Park, renowned for its stunning waterfalls and unique termite mounds. For those interested in exploring the local culture, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is just a short drive away. You can easily access the resort by campervan from the Darwin Cheapa Campa branch, providing a seamless connection to the city’s sights and beyond.

 

3. Kakadu Lodge and Caravan Park

Located in the heart of Jabiru within the world-famous Kakadu National Park, Kakadu Lodge and Caravan Park offers an immersive experience in one of Australia’s most stunning natural, ancient settings. Located around 3 hours from Darwin, this is easily the best budget-friendly campsite in the NT for those looking to immerse themselves in the Territory’s natural beauty and Indigenous culture. 

This park provides budget-friendly, spacious camping sites, along with an inviting lagoon-style pool to cool off after a day of adventure. As a gateway to the extensive Kakadu National Park, guests have direct access to ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes of billabongs and wetlands. Organised tours from the lodge offer deep dives into the area’s ecology and history, including boat tours on the Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) Billabong. This is a perfect addition to an Australia road trip for those looking for a meaningful yet affordable exploration of Indigenous heritage and natural beauty.

Image: Lachlan Gardiner

 

4. BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park

Located in Howard Springs, BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park is another one of the best budget-friendly campsites in the NT’s northern city of Darwin. Just a short drive from the bustling city, this campground in NT is a haven for groups seeking an attraction-packed fun and budget stay. This park features a variety of powered sites and is well-equipped with excellent facilities, including swimming pools (yes, there are multiple!) and BBQ areas—perfect for groups.

This campsite’s proximity to Darwin makes it easy to explore the city’s historical sites and bustling markets. Additionally, the park is just a short hour’s drive away from Litchfield National Park, offering easy access to explore its famous waterfalls and natural swimming holes. For travellers looking for a home base to explore the Top End in a campervan, this campsite’s proximity to Darwin and other attractions makes it a practical choice for both short and extended stays, providing all the comforts needed on a budget.

 

Think camping in the Northern Territory sounds like fun?

That is a wrap on the best budget-friendly campsites in the NT! These parks each offer unique experiences and amenities, making them top choices for those travelling through the Northern Territory by campervan. Whether you’re looking to explore urban attractions near Darwin or the remote wilderness of Kakadu (or both!), these options provide comfortable and cost-effective bases for your campervan adventures.

Ready to start your adventure? You can book your Cheapa Campa online today and pick it up from any Cheapa branch, including those conveniently located in Darwin or Alice Springs. With your campervan sorted, all that's left is to pack your spirit of adventure (trust us, up here, you’ll need it!) and hit the road. Why wait? The great Australian Outback is calling!

 

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Indigenous Experiences in Australia

Hit the road on an unforgettable campervan journey and explore one of the world’s oldest living cultures. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences in Australia provide deep, immersive insights, making them a perfect addition to any travel itinerary. Guided by Indigenous locals, you'll connect with the land and its people, creating memories that belong on every traveler’s bucket list.

Australia's rich Indigenous heritage spans every State and Territory, each offering its own unique cultural experiences. Warm and generous Indigenous guides welcome you to discover their stories and traditions, providing a deeper understanding of the country.

From ancient rock art and captivating cultural performances to authentic Indigenous cuisine, these experiences inspire visitors from around the globe. Visit our State and Territory pages to find the top Indigenous attractions and make them part of your next road trip adventure!

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

From the vibrant Melbourne city to the dramatic Great Ocean Road coastline, the rugged outback of South Australia and the spiritual heart of Australia - Uluru, you'll do it all on this 14 day Melbourne to Alice Springs road trip.

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Apollo VIC campervan branch

Start your Victoria adventure in the heart of its culture and culinary capital by renting a campervan from our Melbourne Apollo campervan hire branch. With an Apollo campervan, you’re set to explore Melbourne's charming laneways and bustling markets, as well as the State Library, hidden bars, chic galleries, and fashionable boutiques. And that's all before leaving the city!

Whether you are planning a local getaway, a statewide adventure, or looking for a central starting point for your Australia campervan holiday, our friendly staff at the Melbourne campervan hire branch are there to ensure a smooth start.

Helpful tips for visiting VIC

Planning a campervan holiday in Victoria? Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your adventure. From understanding the unique climate and best travel times to packing effectively and choosing the best spots for day trips, we’ve got you covered. Read on for insightful details to ensure your trip is as comfortable and adventure-packed as possible.

Climate and seasons in Victoria

Victoria's climate is famously variable, which is why it's often said you can experience four seasons in one day. As you can imagine, the best time to visit largely depends on your interests: summer (December to February) is ideal for beachgoers, while winter (June to August) appeals to the snow bunnies of the family.

Alternatively, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer milder weather that is perfect for exploring the wineries and cosy coastal drives. Travelling in these off-season times can mean fewer crowds and lower costs, but just be sure to pack a few layers to cater to any impromptu weather changes.

What to pack

Packing for a Victorian adventure? Your checklist should include versatile outdoor gear for all weather conditions, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs or extra blankets (which can be added to your Apollo campervan hire booking).

Don’t forget a good camera to capture the scenic views and a sturdy pair of hiking boots for exploring. For more ideas on what to bring along, check out our guide on campervan road trip essentials. Packing smart ensures you’re prepared for everything from a sunny day at St Kilda Beach to a chilly evening in the Grampians.

Nearby VIC tourist attractions and day trips in Victoria

Victoria is home to plenty of unique attractions that are perfect for day trips or longer stays. Here’s a closer look at some must-visit spots in Victoria year-round:

  • Great Ocean Road: The iconic 243-kilometre stretch of road known as the Great Ocean Road is world-renowned for its dramatic ocean views and lush rainforests. The drive offers numerous spots to stop, relax, and take in the panoramic coastal vistas.
  • Phillip Island: Ever wanted to see a horde of little Penguins coming to shore at dusk? Look no further than the penguin parade! Phillip Island offers visitors a chance to see little penguins (also known as fairy penguins) return ashore at sunset.
  • Twelve Apostles: Located along the Great Ocean Road, these massive limestone structures towering from the Southern Ocean are a breathtaking sight at sunrise or sunset.
  • Dandenong Ranges: Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Dandenongs are ideal for nature lovers. Explore the verdant landscapes through the Puffing Billy Railway or see the local fauna on the numerous walking trails.
  • Yarra Valley: Victoria’s premier wine region, just a short drive from Melbourne, offers not only wine tasting but also beautiful landscapes and access to some of the best artisan food producers in Australia.
  • Grampians National Park: Known for its sandstone mountains, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, the Grampians are the perfect weekend getaway from Melbourne for hiking, climbing, and enjoying panoramic views from lookouts like the Balconies.
  • Wilsons Promontory National Park: The southernmost tip of the Australian mainland, “the Prom,” as it’s affectionately known, is famous for its stunning bushland, ocean views, and abundant wildlife.
  • Ballarat: Steeped in history, Ballarat is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and the open-air museum, Sovereign Hill, where visitors can experience the Gold Rush era with a fun twist!
  • St Kilda Beach: A short drive from the heart of Melbourne city, St Kilda is popular for its bustling beachfront, vibrant bar scene, and historic Luna Park. South Melbourne Market is a must-visit for its iconic dim sims and lively atmosphere.
  • National Gallery of Victoria: Love exploring local art galleries? Located in Melbourne, this art museum is open year-round and renowned for its extensive collection ranging from contemporary art to major international exhibitions. Fed Square also hosts a variety of free community events and exhibitions, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your Melbourne itinerary.
  • Explore Melbourne city after midnight: If you fancy exploring Victoria's city centre after dark, be sure to plan your visit for a weekend. Melbourne’s nightlife comes alive on a Saturday night, with activities ranging from bowling to bookshop events and venues featuring live music.

Where to stay in Victoria with a campervan

Exploring Victoria in a campervan offers a range of accommodation options, from free camping sites to fully-equipped holiday parks.

For those seeking a free stay under the stars, free camping in Victoria is a great resource that provides detailed listings of no-cost spots across the state. If you prefer more facilities, consider established holiday parks. Apollo Bay Holiday Park, located near the Great Ocean Road, offers amenities close to beachfront attractions. Inland, Ballarat Holiday Park caters to those interested in exploring the region's rich gold rush history.

Alternatively, coastal caravan parks like Ingenia Holidays Inverloch and Tasman Holiday Parks Geelong are perfect for beach lovers, while Anglesea Caravan Park appeals to surfing enthusiasts and beachgoers looking for a base to explore the local wildlife parks.

For family-oriented stays, be sure to check out our guide to the best family-friendly campsites in Melbourne, as well as the best family-friendly holiday parks in Victoria. These are a great place to start for anyone looking to combine kid-friendly activities with family-friendly accommodations and amenities on their campervan road trip around Victoria.

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