August 30, 2009
Travelling around Australia by Car
The smallest continent and biggest island in the world is Australia. In terms of size, it is almost as large as the 48 adjacent United States. Its 20.4 million people are largely concentrated in the eastern and south-eastern coastal urban areas. This means that there are huge open spaces to explore in the remainder of the country, and this can often be accomplished by car. Pretty coastlines, inland mountainous areas and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wild life are there for the traveller to experience.
You can easily arrange for a car rental at the airport or hotel with an international drivers permit or a valid American or European drivers license. There are dozens of car hire companies offering many types of vehicles, from different makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is a vehicle to suit anyone. Just to illustrate, those who enjoy camping out can get camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come fully equipped with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Deluxe models even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini-kitchen. If you are travelling in more tough terrain, there are 4WDs. For the budget oriented, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars.
Driving in Australia can be dissimilar from other countries: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. The car rental company will usually provide you with thorough information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), what to do in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation beforehand will insure a successful and pleasant car vacation in Australia.
