Your Guide to Caravanning from Australia's East Coast to the West

Embarking on a caravanning journey from Australia’s east coast to the west is the ultimate adventure, and along the way, it’s the legendary destinations that make every kilometre count. Your trip isn’t just about clocking up miles—it’s about sunrise surf in Queensland, outback legends, cliff-top views, and discovering the character (and characters) that make Australia unforgettable. Here’s your ultimate hit-list of must-do caravanning destinations—from the balmy Pacific to the turquoise Indian Ocean—and the signature experiences that set each stop apart.

Starting on the East Coast

Begin your adventure on the east coast, where Queensland’s stretch of sun-drenched beaches like Noosa and the Gold Coast are perfect for mornings that begin with salt air and a side of adventure. Loop inland to the lush hinterlands and ancient waterfalls, or cruise south to Byron Bay where laid-back vibes, surf breaks, and buzzing cafes rule the day. Detour through the wild, misty valleys of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales for dramatic cliffs and hiking trails—an explorer’s haven that’s as photogenic as it is exhilarating.

South Australian Flavours

Push further west and roll into South Australia’s capital, Adelaide. It’s a hotspot for art, music, and food, but just beyond the city lies the Barossa Valley—a wine lover’s paradise where boutique cellar doors and local produce set you up for gourmet feasts under the stars. This is the place to savour slow mornings and long lunches, with country warmth in every welcome. Don’t forget a gourmet haul to fill your caravan’s pantry before you tackle the wilds ahead.

Conquering the Nullarbor Plain

Next, prepare for the legendary Nullarbor Plain—a caravanner’s pilgrimage and a true rite of passage. The drive itself features Australia’s straightest stretch of road and the world’s longest golf course, with endless skies, wandering wildlife, and the jaw-dropping Bunda Cliffs overlooking the Southern Ocean. Stop the van, soak up the vastness, and let the wild beauty sink in; this is Australia with the rough edges left on.

Entering Western Australia

Rolling into WA signals the beginning of a whole new chapter. The goldfields around Kalgoorlie hum with stories from the gold rush days, while Esperance to the south promises turquoise seas and sands so white they almost glow. Up the coast, the Margaret River region is heaven for wine fans, and Perth’s vibrant city life awaits as your cross-country finish line. But adventure doesn’t have to end there—detour north and you’ll find the raw, ancient beauty of the Kimberley, or head for the mighty Karijini National Park for canyons and swimming holes hidden in the outback.

When to Go

The best time for an East to West journey is generally between April and October. Travelling during these months means you’ll dodge the searing summer heat of the interior and avoid wet season floods up north, setting the stage for a smooth run through Australia’s diverse landscapes. Mild days and cool nights make it ideal for stopping at coastlines, national parks, and wild outback vistas—each destination along the way more inviting and accessible.

What to Pack

• Recovery Gear: Even the best drivers can get into a bind. A snatch strap, shackles, and a tyre pressure gauge are essential.
• Extra Supplies: Always carry more water and fuel than you think you'll need. Service stations can be few and far between, and a little extra liquid insurance provides peace of mind.
• Communication: A UHF radio is vital for communicating with trucks and other travellers, especially on single-lane outback highways. A satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) is also a smart investment for areas with zero mobile reception.

Make this dream journey a reality

And here’s what could make this journey all possible: Mater Cars for Cancer lottery No. 127 is giving you the chance to win the ultimate adventure package—a $476,977 prize that sets you up for this coast-to-coast trip in style. Imagine hitting these must-see destinations behind the wheel of a top-tier Toyota LandCruiser Sahara ZX—a 3.3L Diesel luxury off-roader ready to tackle highways and outback tracks alike. Hitch up the custom-built Kokoda XCore M.I.A caravan, the ultimate 19’6” off-road home-away-from-home, with self-sufficient power, air bag suspension, three water tanks, diesel heating, solar, bunks, and all the mod cons. Top it off with $125,000 in gold bullion—so you can fuel up, live up, and say “yes” to every spontaneous detour. Winning this prize package means you’re equipped not just for the east-to-west journey, but to go further than you ever dreamed, no matter how bold your itinerary gets.

Buy Tickets