Planning an Australia road trip in a campervan is, hands down, the most budget-friendly way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. With its breathtaking coastlines, vast national parks, and rugged Outback, a campervan lets you immerse yourself in the beauty of the country. 

To help you make sure you are getting the most from your campervan holiday budget, this guide will show you how to find the best campervan deals, compare pricing options, and save money on extras. From booking tips to choosing the right vehicle, we’ll cover everything you need to know to travel Australia on a budget. 

 

Understanding different types of campervans

Okay, but what campervan is best for exploring Australia? In short, there isn't one. Choosing the right campervan really comes down to your travel style and budget. Here is a simple breakdown of the different kinds of campervan hires you will come across from motorhome rental suppliers: 

Budget campervans: These are perfect for solo travellers or couples looking for the essentials at a lower price. These compact campervans provide a little more comfort and are great for road trips where navigating cities or winding coastal routes is part of the adventure (smaller means you will use far less fuel!) 

Mid-tier campervans: If you're travelling with a family or a larger group, family-sized campervans offer extra space and features like cooking areas and sleeping quarters. While they carry a higher price tag, they also give you the chance to split the cost among the group. 

High-end campervans: For those wanting a more luxurious experience, there are also high-end models with added amenities that come at a higher price but deliver premium comfort. 

The choice of van impacts both the cost and your overall experience. Opting for a cheap camper van can help you save on both accommodation and transportation while giving you the flexibility to explore Australia at your own pace, while higher-end campervan hires are great for longer road trips. 

 

Researching and comparing campervan hire options

Selecting the right motorhome rental supplier is crucial for a smooth road trip. When comparing campervan hire options, consider factors such as the variety of vehicles available, customer service quality, and pricing transparency. You want to avoid hidden fees that can inflate your costs unexpectedly.  

A reliable supplier will offer a diverse fleet, from budget-friendly campers to more luxurious motorhomes, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your travel needs. Customer service is another key aspect. Look for companies with positive reviews and a reputation for excellent support, both during the booking process and throughout your trip. 

 

Why choose Cheapa

Cheapa is known for offering some of the most competitive prices in the Aussie campervan hire market. Known for its wide range of cheap RV rentals and motorhome hire options and commitment to customer satisfaction, Cheapa Campa ensures you get quality campervans without breaking the bank. Whether you need a simple camper for a quick getaway or a fully equipped motorhome for an extended road trip, Cheapa’s diverse fleet has something for everyone. 

 

Transparent pricing

One of the key benefits of booking with Cheapa is the transparent pricing model. All our vehicles offer clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees, meaning what you’re quoted is what you pay. This approach includes important basics like unlimited mileage, basic insurance, and 24/7 roadside assistance, helping you budget more effectively for your Australia road trip. In short, Cheapa’s commitment to transparency means you won’t be hit with unexpected charges down the road. 

 

Exclusive deals

Cheapa is a top choice for budget-conscious travellers not just for its affordable base rates but also for its exclusive deals. Frequent discounts and promotions make hiring a campervan even more affordable. From seasonal promotions to limited-time offers, Cheapa has discounts that are hard to beat, making it the go-to provider for travellers looking to maximise their budget. 

TOP TIP: To ensure you don’t miss out, regularly check the campervan hire deals page for the latest offers. These deals often include everything from discounted daily rates to free upgrades, adding even more value to your cheap campervan hire experience. 

 

Booking tips for securing the best deals

Securing the best campervan hire deals for your motorhome holiday doesn’t happen by chance. There are several strategies you can use to lock in the most affordable camper vans. In the next few sections, we’ll explore the best times to book, how to navigate cheap rv rentals, and why longer rental periods can lead to even better deals. 

 

Timing

If you’re looking to save on campervan hire, the timing of your booking plays a crucial role. Generally, the best time to book your campervan hire for lower prices is during the shoulder seasons—just before or after peak travel periods. 

For Australia, this typically means looking at late autumn (March to May) and early spring (September to November). Not only are camper prices typically lower at these times, but popular tourist spots are less crowded, giving you a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience. Avoiding peak holiday seasons like summer and Christmas is key if you want to lock in cheap camper van rates. 

Cheapa often runs promotions during these off-peak periods, so keeping an eye on the market during these times can really pay off. By travelling during these windows, you’ll also have more options in terms of availability, meaning you won’t have to settle for whatever is left. 

 

Advance booking vs. last-minute deals

When it comes to getting the best deal, there are benefits to both advance booking and holding out for last-minute deals. Booking early guarantees you the widest choice of campervans and ensures availability, especially if you’re travelling during a busy season. Many companies, including Cheapa, offer early-bird discounts, which can make a significant difference in cost. 

On the other hand, if you’re flexible with your dates, last-minute deals can offer huge savings. Rental companies often drop prices as the start date approaches, hoping to fill any remaining vehicles. However, the downside is that you may not get your ideal camper if availability is limited. This can work well if you’re open to any type of vehicle or can adapt your travel plans. 

 

Length of hire

The length of your rental can also impact the overall price. Longer hire periods often lead to better daily rates, making it more cost-effective to rent for a week or more. Many companies, including Cheapa, offer a long-hire discount for extended rentals, allowing you to stretch your budget even further. 

For those planning a more immersive Australia road trip, booking for a longer period can not only save you money but also give you more time to explore everything this vast country has to offer. 

 

Flexible travel dates

Many rental companies, including Cheapa, offer lower rates during less busy periods, but also on weekdays. So, small details like adjusting your pick-up and drop-off days to avoid weekends or holidays can lead to significant savings on Cheapa campervan hire. 

So whether you're planning an escape to the stunning beaches of Airlie Beach or the rugged landscapes of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, we recommend making these small tweaks to secure the best rental rates. 

 

Taking advantage of special offers and discounts

As you can see, there are plenty of special offers available that can help you find the best campervan deals when looking for a campervan rental. As mentioned above, common discounts include long-term rental savings, last-minute price reductions, and off-peak travel promotions. However, keeping an eye out for promo codes or loyalty programs is another great way to save—did you know renting a camper with Cheapa can earn you Qantas Points? Check out the Qantas Points partnership for more details. 

TOP TIP: Want to get access to the best deals? Sign up for email newsletters to get exclusive access to deals before they hit the public. By subscribing to Cheapa’s newsletter, you’ll receive the latest offers and exclusive discounts on a camper hire straight to your inbox. This way, you won’t miss out on early-bird specials or bundled deals that can include extras like insurance or camping gear, adding even more value to your campervan hire. 

 

Saving money on extras and add-ons

While add-ons like child seats or GPS devices can enhance your trip, they can also increase costs. To avoid unnecessary expenses, it’s important to carefully select the extras you actually need. If you’re travelling with family, a child seat might be essential, but extras like additional kitchen equipment or outdoor furniture could be optional. 

In line with Cheapa’s transparent pricing, you get to pick and choose, so you're not paying for things you don’t need. 

Insurance is another area where you can potentially save. Understanding what’s already included in your campervan hire package is key—basic coverage often comes with the rental, and you might not need to purchase extra coverage if you’re already covered by a travel insurance policy. Carefully reviewing what’s provided and considering whether you truly need additional protection can help you avoid overspending. 

 

Understanding hidden costs

While Cheapa is known for its transparent pricing, it’s always wise to be aware of potential hidden costs when renting a campervan. Common fees like one-way charges, additional driver fees, or mileage limits can sometimes add to the overall cost. Knowing about these potential extras upfront will help you calculate the total cost of your rental and avoid any surprises. 

One-way fees, for example, might apply if you’re planning to pick up your campervan in one city and drop it off in another, especially for more remote regions. By checking all of these factors ahead of time, you’ll have a clear picture of what you’re paying for, ensuring your Australia road trip stays within budget. 

 

Maximising value during your campervan holiday

To make the most of your campervan hire and keep costs down, here are a few other things to consider: 

• Be mindful of fuel economy: Choosing a campervan that suits your needs and avoids excess weight can help reduce fuel consumption. Driving at a steady pace, avoiding harsh acceleration, and using fuel-saving routes can also make a big difference. It’s smart to plan your route efficiently to minimise unnecessary driving and optimise your fuel use.  

• Make use of budget-friendly camping options: There are plenty of budget-friendly campgrounds, particularly in more rural areas and national parks, allow you to immerse yourself in nature while keeping your trip affordable. Planning to stay at freedom camping spots can reduce accommodation costs even further. National parks offer low-cost stays with breathtaking views, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers. 

• Crafting a smart travel itinerary: This can help you reduce costs by avoiding backtracking and unnecessary driving. Consider mapping out key destinations and planning for longer stays in each location to enjoy the area without the extra fuel costs. So whether you are exploring diverse landscapes and attractions in Western Australia, or going on a road trip holiday to New South Wales, planning your itinerary ahead of time will be sure to make your road trip more efficient and budget-friendly. 

• Use the onboard kitchen: When hiring a campervan, you have access to a full kitchen! Planning a list of campervan-friendly meals to make on the road will save you a ton of money on eating out. 

 

Book your Cheapa campa today

By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best campervan deals, saving money on extras, and maximising the value of your Australia road trip. Whether it’s booking at the right time, choosing the perfect campervan, or taking advantage of Cheapa’s exclusive deals, every decision you make can stretch your travel budget further. 

Want to start planning your budget-friendly campervan holiday? You can easily book your Cheapa camper online at Cheapa Campa and pick it up from any of the Cheapa branches across Australia. Adventure is just a click away, so start planning your road trip and make the most of what Australia has to offer.