Thinking about hitting the open road in Western Australia? Before you take off, it’s worth knowing the most common slip-ups first-time travellers make. These campervan travel tips WA adventurers often learn the hard way will help you avoid rookie errors and make the most of your journey from the start.
From road rules to campsite planning and van know-how, here’s how to set yourself up for a smoother, more memorable trip.
1. Misjudging Distances and Drive Times
WA’s wide-open roads are incredible—but they’re also vast and often isolated.
Tip: Break your trip into shorter segments. That “3-hour drive” might turn into five once you factor in road conditions, breaks, and detours. Use offline navigation apps like Maps.me or download Google Maps areas ahead of time to stay on track. Try our South West Loop for a scenic, well-paced route.
2. Overpacking (Or Forgetting Essentials)
Packing for van travel is a fine balance—go too heavy and you lose comfort, too light and you’re missing basics.
Tip: Stick to layered clothing, reusable containers, and a grab bag for daily essentials. Our 2–3 seater campervans already come stocked with cookware, safety equipment, and storage space—so you don’t need to bring the kitchen sink.
3. Not Booking Campsites Ahead
In peak season (December – February, April), many campgrounds near beaches or national parks are booked out days or weeks ahead.
Tip: Reserve your must-stay spots through apps like WikiCamps or Camps Australia Wide. For a short, beginner-friendly trip, check out our Southern Weekend Explorer itinerary.
4. Driving on Restricted Roads
Many first-time travellers don’t realise some epic-looking roads are off-limits for 2WD campervans—or carry additional fees due to their rugged condition.
Tip: Always check route permissions in your booking guide. Travelling to Karijini? It’s allowed, but you’ll need to pre-pay the maintenance fee before heading off. See full details on our campervan hire inclusions.
5. Not Knowing How the Van Works
Fumbling with your bed setup or fridge at 10pm in the dark is no fun.
Tip: At pickup, ask us to walk you through everything: setting up the slide-out kitchen, connecting your fan/light, using the inverter. Our van guide booklet is also included in every van for peace of mind on the road.
6. Running Low on Fuel or Water
Outback WA isn’t forgiving if you forget to refuel—some stretches go 300km+ without a servo.
Tip: Fuel up whenever you pass a major town, and refill water tanks at caravan parks or visitor centres. Our 2–5 seater campervans are perfect for bigger groups who need more supply room.
7. Skipping Optional Add-Ons That Boost Comfort
First-time renters often skip extras like bedding or tables, thinking they’ll “make do.”
Tip: Comfort = longevity. Our Bloody Good Package includes bedding, a fan/light, outdoor chairs and a table—all bundled for $75. One less thing to think about.
8. Overplanning the Itinerary
WA’s not the place to rush. Trying to tick off too many destinations often means missing the magic in between.
Tip: Choose one region and immerse yourself. For inspiration, our Northern Escape blog covers remote gorges, snorkelling spots and camp-friendly parks across the Pilbara and Coral Coast.
9. Ignoring Fire, Weather or Wildlife Alerts
Bushfires, floods and wildlife crossings are part of WA’s natural environment.
Tip: Before each drive day, check alerts via Emergency WA or BOM. At night, use your van’s supplied light/fan combo to avoid attracting insects. Drive cautiously at dawn/dusk when kangaroos are most active.
10. Not Asking Questions at Pickup
The difference between a smooth trip and a frustrating one? Asking questions early.
Tip: Our team will walk you through your camper and share local tips. Ask us anything—from how to set up your outdoor kitchen to the best fuel stops heading north. You’ll feel much more confident before hitting the road.
Campervan Travel Tips WA Travellers Often Miss
It’s not just about driving the van—it’s about travelling smarter. The most useful campervan travel tips WA road-trippers can follow involve planning realistically, staying aware of local conditions, and choosing a van that makes life easier, not harder. That’s exactly what we design our vans to do.
Ready to Hit the Road?
We’re here to make your first campervan trip in WA easy, safe and unforgettable. Browse our campervan hire options and start planning your next great escape today.
FAQs About First-Time Campervan Travel in WA
Do I need to book campsites in WA in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season December – February, April). Popular spots like Margaret River, Coral Bay and national parks can book out weeks ahead. Use apps like WikiCamps or Camps Australia Wide to secure your site.
Can I drive a 2WD campervan on unsealed roads in WA?
Some unsealed roads are allowed with additional fees (e.g. Karijini National Park incurs a $150 charge), but many remote tracks are restricted for 2WD vans. Always check with your rental provider and campervan hire inclusions before heading off.
What’s included in a Home on the Road campervan?
All our vans—like the automatic 2–3 seater campervan—come equipped with cooking gear, safety equipment, storage, and a comfortable sleeping setup. Optional add-ons like bedding, inverter, fan/light, and outdoor tables are available in our Bloody Good Package.
How far can I drive each day in a Home on the Road van?
You get 200km a day for rentals less than 7 days + $0.25 per additional km or free unlimited kms for rentals of 7 days or more. This gives you flexibility whether you’re doing a short loop or heading up north. If you’re planning a bigger trip, our 2–5 seater campervan is a great option for long-haul travel. For cost-saving tips, check out our blog on how to travel WA on a budget.
Is it safe to free camp in WA?
There are designated free camping spots, but not all are safe or legal. Stick to recognised rest areas, council-approved sites, or national park campgrounds. Avoid pulling over at random roadside spots unless you’re confident it’s permitted. For guidance on how to do it properly, read our full guide to free camping in WA.
