Australia is one of the best destinations for road trips, thanks to its stunning coastal drives, rainforests, wetlands, and outback deserts.
It is no surprise that travellers from across the country and around the world come to experience our unique landscapes and wildlife.
However, Australia is the sixth-largest country by area, which means distances between destinations can be vast. So, no matter if you’ve done the trip before or it’s a brand-new journey, a little planning can make your trip safer and far more enjoyable.
Here is how to prepare for a stress-free and responsible road trip in Australia.
1. Plan your route and check conditions
- Map your route and note fuel stops, ensuing fuel availablty or EV charging stations, especially in regional and remote areas.
- Check weather alerts, fire danger ratings, and road conditions. Download local fire service and traffic apps such as CFS, CFA, RFS, VicTraffic, and Live Traffic NSW.
- Save emergency numbers: 000 for life-threatening situations and 132 500 for SES assistance.
- If conditions change unexpectedly, such as heatwaves, smoke, or bushfire warnings, adjust your plans early and try to stay flexible.
Before you leave, read our guide on How to Leave Your House Safe While You're Away.
2. Check in your insurance
If you’ve purchased Allianz insurance through Bank Australia, your cover is designed to support you when things don’t go to plan.
Review your car insurance before you travel, particularly if you plan to tow a caravan or trailer.
- Make sure your coverage is up to date and reflects your current situation.
- Save roadside assistance and insurer contact details, remembering as a Bank Australia customer you can make a claim at any time online 24/7 or you can call Allianz on 1300 555 030.
- Keeping recent photos of your vehicle and accessories will make life easier if you do need to make a claim.
- Bank Australia customers with Allianz products should review their policy online, ensure the app is installed for easy-access banking and store downloaded digital copies on their devices so they’re not reliant on Wi-Fi.
Interested in reducing your road trip’s carbon footprint? Explore Bank Australia’s green car loans for electric vehicles.
3. Give your vehicle a health check
A quick vehicle safety check before you leave can prevent breakdowns:
- Tyres: Check tread and pressure, including the spare.
- Fluids: Top up coolant, oil, and washer fluid.
- Battery and lights: Test that everything works.
- Air conditioning: Essential for summer comfort.
- Pack basic tools such as a jack, wheel brace, and jumper leads.
- Driving electric? Plan EV charging stops, confirm connector types, and carry cables. Especially check charger availability in regional areas.
4. Pack an emergency kit
An emergency car kit is always useful, but on a road trip it is especially important for peace of mind, particularly if you are responsible for less able travellers such as children or the elderly. Include:
- Water and snacks
- First aid supplies
- Torch and spare batteries
- Phone charger and power bank
- Sunscreen, hats, and P2/N95 masks for smoke
- Copies of key documents in both digital and physical form
- If traveling remotely, add extra water, paper maps, and a satellite communicator
Read our guide on Summer and Bushfire Safety Tips.
5. Stay cool and comfortable
Remember to stay hydrated and rotate drivers every two hours. This is especially important if you’re driving at night or a time when you’d normally be asleep.
Even if you’re on an arrival deadline it’s best to schedule breaks every two hours and never leave children or pets in a parked car, even briefly.
6. Fuel and charging
Keep your tank above half or your EV battery above 40 - 50%, especially if you’re in an area that’s rural or unfamiliar.
Also, be aware that rural service stations may have limited opening hours and some are card-only after hours.
If you’re driving in an extremely rural area, you may consider whether carrying a jerry can with extra fuel is a safe and legal option.
7. Bushfire Awareness While Traveling
If traveling near dense bushland, monitor local bushfire safety apps and radio updates. Fire situations can change quickly, so it is always better to err on the side of caution.
- If smoke reduces visibility: slow down, turn headlights on, and keep windows up.
- If fire is nearby: turn around early and follow official advice. Sheltering in a car is a last resort. Leaving early is always safer.
A quick checklist for road trip safety
- Insurance details handy + Bank Australia app installed
- Route planned with backup detour
- Weather and fire danger checked
- Vehicle fluids, tyres, and brakes OK
- Emergency kit packed
- Phone charged with offline maps
- Fuel or charging plan ready
Bank Australia is committed to banking as a force for good – learn more about how your money can make a better impact on the world here.
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