How much does it really cost to hire a campervan in Australia?

One of the biggest misconceptions about an Australian campervan holiday is that it is expensive. While the daily hire rate can sometimes look higher than a rental car at first glance, it is important to look at the bigger picture. 

A campervan holiday in Australia combines your transport and accommodation into a single booking. When you compare the total cost of flights, hotels, car hire and dining out, a campervan holiday can be far more affordable than many people expect.

Let's take a closer look at what influences campervan hire costs in Australia, where your money goes, and how to get the best value from your travel budget.

What affects campervan hire prices in Australia?

Campervan hire prices can vary quite a bit from one trip to the next. The good news is that many of the factors that influence pricing are within your control, giving you plenty of opportunities to find a vehicle and travel dates that suit your budget.

• Time of year: Travel season is one of the biggest influences on pricing. Peak holiday periods, school holidays and popular travel seasons typically attract higher demand, while quieter times of year can offer better availability and value.

• Vehicle size and features: Compact campervans are generally the most affordable option, while larger motorhomes with extra beds, onboard bathrooms and additional living space usually come at a higher price point.

• Trip duration: Longer hires can sometimes provide better value on a per-day basis, making extended road trips surprisingly cost-effective.

• Travel location: Demand can vary across different regions of Australia. For example, northern destinations are often most popular during the dry season, while southern regions tend to see increased demand during summer.

• Booking ahead: Travellers who book early often have access to a wider range of vehicles, more travel dates and a better chance of securing special offers or promotional pricing.

• Insurance options: Different levels of cover are available, allowing travellers to choose the balance of protection and cost that best suits their needs and comfort level.

• Optional extras: Additional drivers, camping equipment, child seats and other add-ons can influence the overall cost of your booking, so it is worth considering which extras you genuinely need.

Other Australia road trip costs to budget for

After your campervan rental cost, fuel is usually one of the biggest expenses, particularly if you're covering long distances or exploring remote regions. The cost of fuel on a campervan trip will depend on factors such as your route, current prices, the type of vehicle and how much driving you plan to do.

Campground and holiday park fees are another important consideration. Again, costs can vary significantly depending on the location, season and facilities available. Some travellers prefer powered sites with access to amenities, while others choose more basic campgrounds or national park campsites to help keep costs down. Depending on your itinerary, there may also be opportunities to stay at low-cost or free camping locations where permitted.

Food can be one area where campervan travel offers excellent value. Having a kitchen onboard means you can prepare many of your own meals rather than relying on cafés and restaurants every day. Many travellers find this provides greater flexibility while helping stretch their travel budget further.

It's also worth allowing room in your budget for attractions, tours, national park entry fees, toll roads and any optional extras that may apply to your booking. The exact costs will vary from trip to trip, but planning for these expenses ahead of time can help avoid surprises and make budgeting much easier.

Why campervan travel can compare well with hotels, flights and rental cars

One reason campervan travel is often misunderstood is that people compare it only with the cost of a rental car. While a rental car may appear cheaper at first glance, it is important to look at the bigger picture. 

That is where campervan travel in Australia can offer strong value. Instead of paying separately for transport and accommodation, you are combining both into one booking. You also have the freedom to stay closer to beaches, national parks, and regional attractions rather than spending time and money travelling back and forth from fixed accommodation. 

For many travellers, the value goes beyond the financial side. The flexibility to change plans, stay longer in places you love and travel at your own pace is one of the biggest advantages of a campervan holiday. When you factor in that freedom and convenience, campervan travel can compare very favourably with more traditional ways of exploring Australia. 

How to plan a your campervan holiday budget 

One of the great things about a campervan holiday is how much control you have over your spending. A few smart decisions before and during your trip can help stretch your budget further without sacrificing the experience.

• Travel during the shoulder season: Spring and autumn often bring lower hire rates, pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak holiday periods.

• Book early: Booking ahead can give you access to a wider choice of vehicles, better availability and, in some cases, more competitive pricing.

• Choose the right-sized campervan: A larger vehicle isn't always necessary. Choosing a campervan that matches your group size and travel style can help avoid paying for space or features you won't use.

• Take advantage of special offers: Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, relocation deals and package offers that can help reduce overall travel costs.

• Mix up your accommodation: Combining holiday parks with more basic campgrounds can help balance comfort and budget throughout your trip.

• Make use of the onboard kitchen: Preparing some of your own meals can significantly reduce day-to-day travel costs while adding flexibility to your itinerary.

• Plan your route carefully: Avoiding unnecessary detours and researching fuel stops in advance can help keep fuel costs under control.

• Understand what's included: Before booking, check details such as insurance options, additional driver fees, equipment hire and any other extras that may affect your overall budget.

• Set aside a little extra: Having a buffer for attractions, tours, special experiences or unexpected costs can make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

Where Apollo special deals can make a difference

If you are searching for affordable campervan travel, it is always worth checking Apollo specials before you book. Special offers can include discounts on daily hire rates, one-way fee savings, or seasonal promotions that make a road trip much more accessible than expected. These offers can be especially useful if you already know your preferred travel window and can match it to a promotional period.

Apollo specials can also help travellers upgrade their plans without stretching the budget too far. A discounted rate may make it possible to choose a more comfortable vehicle, extend your trip by a few days, or reallocate some of your budget to experiences along the way. For anyone planning a campervan rental Australia trip, checking deals early can be one of the smartest first steps.

Ready to start planning your campervan adventure?

A campervan holiday may be more affordable than you think, especially when you consider the flexibility, convenience and freedom that comes with having your transport and accommodation in one. Whether you're dreaming of a coastal road trip, an outback adventure or a family getaway, there are plenty of ways to tailor the experience to suit your budget.

Browse the latest Apollo deals and special offers, compare campervan options and book online to secure the best vehicle for your trip. Looking for inspiration? Explore our range of Australian road trip itineraries and start planning an adventure that works for both your travel style and your budget.

FAQs and quick answers

How much does a campervan cost per day in Australia?

Campervan hire rates vary depending on the time of year, travel dates, vehicle type and location. Smaller campervans are generally the most affordable option, while larger motorhomes and fully self-contained vehicles typically cost more. Travelling during quieter periods and booking early can often help you secure better rates, while peak holiday seasons tend to attract higher prices.

Is campervan rental in Australia cheaper than a hotel and rental car?

It can be, particularly for couples, families and longer road trips. A campervan combines your transport and accommodation into one booking, and having a kitchen onboard can also help reduce food costs by giving you the option to prepare some of your own meals.

What are the main extra costs to budget for on an Australia road trip?

Beyond the campervan hire itself, it is worth budgeting for fuel, campgrounds, attractions, toll roads, insurance upgrades and any optional extras you choose to add. Food and activities can also make up a significant part of your travel budget, depending on your travel style and itinerary.

When are campervan hire prices cheapest in Australia?

The best value is often found during off-peak and shoulder seasons, when demand is lower and there are fewer travellers on the road. Travelling outside school holidays and major holiday periods can also provide more vehicle choice and access to better deals.

How can I make campervan travel in Australia more affordable?

A little planning can go a long way. Booking early, travelling outside peak holiday periods, choosing a vehicle that suits your needs, preparing some of your own meals and using lower-cost campgrounds can all help keep costs under control. It is also worth keeping an eye on campervan deals and special offers, as these can provide excellent savings and make a road trip more affordable than you might expect.