Whether you’re an experienced campervan enthusiast or a first-time road tripper, Tasmania has some amazing sights to offer – but it’s important to remember a few things before hitting the open road. Read on for our top tips on navigating Tasmania’s rugged terrain and making sure you have an unforgettable experience!
1. Preparing Your Campervan
Preparing your campervan for the trip is an important part of ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. To ensure your campervan is in top condition and roadworthy, there are a few things you should check:
- Make sure your tires are inflated to the correct pressure and rotate them if necessary.
- Check all levels of oil, water, and brake fluid. If needed, top them up before setting off on your journey.
- Make sure window washers are topped up with clean water and wiper blades have been replaced if needed.
- Clean out any leaves or debris from around the wheel arches that could restrict gear or brake shifts when driving.
- Inspect brakes, steering, suspension and lights to make sure they are working correctly, servicing if needed.
- Check that hoses haven’t perished or cracked due to age (this could lead to leaks).
- Finally, run a full engine tune-up before your trip; this will help maintain reliability on the road.
If you do not own a campervan, it might be a good idea to book a campercar in Tasmania with LeisureRent. This will save you the hustle of all the preparation mentioned above.
2. Research the Area
Planning is essential when it comes to a campervan road trip. It’s important to research the area you plan to visit before setting off, so you know the best places to go and what to expect. You should also make sure you are aware of the different accommodation options available, any restrictions or permits you may need, and any specific rules or laws for the area. Doing this research ahead of time will help your road trip run much smoother.
The weather in Tasmania can be unpredictable and can change drastically from one part of the state to another, especially during winter months. Before planning your road trip, it’s important to look up the forecast for the area and make note of any possible inclement weather. You should also be aware that the weather in the highlands, or areas on higher elevation, can be particularly chilly and wet due to the cold air making contact with warmer temperatures coming off nearby bodies of water.
3. Packing Essentials for the Trip
The weather in Tasmania can change quickly and can range from hot and humid to cold and rainy, so be sure to bring a range of clothing suitable for all conditions. Pack your wardrobe according to how long you plan on traveling or the regions you plan on visiting. Going for multi-day hikes? Bring comfortable footwear and warm clothing layers including thermals, rain gear, gloves, and hats.
Tasmanian campgrounds are relaxing places to stay after a day of activities but they may be more basic with fewer amenities compared to other campsites found around Australia. Don’t forget your tent, camping mattress, cooking equipment (e.g., gas stove), eating utensils, camping furniture (such as portable chairs), and insect-repellent products. If you haven’t had experience driving a campervan before then make sure you take some time before your journey begins to familiarise yourself with its functions; knowing how to set up the sink correctly or fold down beds quickly could prove invaluable during moments of fatigue or adversity!
4. Look up the top attractions
From stunning national parks and vast land reserves to coastal beaches and lush forests – Tasmania has plenty of options when it comes to wandering and exploring!
Here are just a few must-see destinations worth considering:
-Port Arthur Historic Site – Located on the Tasman Peninsula, this area features one of Australia’s darkest colonial tales and is considered one of the best visitor experiences in Australia!
-Cradle Mountain National Park – This iconic spot is home to native wildlife, rugged mountains, spectacular wildflower displays, and magnificent views.
-Bay of Fires – A stretch of white beaches and orange lichen-covered granite boulders are framed by a crystal clear blue sea.
-Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area – An awe-inspiring landscape that covers an impressive 20% of the total area in Tasmania. Home to vibrant vegetation, but also isolated yet rich ecosystems that can only be explored on foot or boat.
5. Prepare for Emergencies
Whether it is an accident, getting lost, or needing to be rescued, you have to be ready for anything that could happen. Before heading out on your road trip, you should equip yourself with the necessary supplies and how to use them.
If something goes wrong while on the road, your first response should be to call 000 (the Australian emergency number). Give the operator the exact location and details of the incident. When possible, familiarize yourself with local emergency services (fire department, police department, etc.) and their contact information prior to setting off.
It’s a good idea to also have first aid supplies readily available should someone require medical attention due to an injury or illness during the trip. Make sure you have all the essentials on hand; these include medicines for headaches, fever, or other illnesses, bandaged and gauze pads for cuts or scrapes along with sterile wipes and other hygiene items such as toilet paper and soap. Don’t forget insect repellent if you are in an area where mosquitoes are present!
6. Consider Your Budget
Creating a budget for your trip should take into consideration the cost of fuel, campground fees, food supplies, and entertainment costs which are likely to be encountered throughout the duration of the tour. After factoring these costs appropriately, you may need to adjust the length of time on the journey accordingly.
Keep in mind that it is best to plan financially before beginning this fun adventure; so that you can make informed decisions about where you go and when you stay there. Make sure to research free camping sites and other discounted locations; find out whether meals or entertainment expenses can be excluded by making prior arrangements with hotels or restaurants, and determine whether longer stays or multiple stops are more practical money-wise. Ultimately, ensuring that you don’t go over budget and still remain within comfort levels when planning out your trip is key!
Conclusion
Planning a campervan road trip in Tasmania can be a lot of fun, but it is important to do your research first so that you have a smooth trip. There are lots of great places to stop on your trip, and the scenery will be unforgettable. Make sure you have all the supplies you need before embarking on your journey and enjoy every moment!
