Travelling around Australia in a caravan on a budget

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

It’s a great idea to take some shorter trips first before you bite the bullet with the big one. On these trips, you can fix any issues you may come across with your transport before they become too big, which can save you money later. These practice trips are also great for working out what you do and don’t need. If there’s a big ticket item you’ve got your eye on, find out now before your big trip if it’s something you really need - that extra money might equate to a few extra days of travel.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Planning your trip in advance ensures that you’ll experience everything you want to see and helps to avoid any unnecessary stress. It’s also important for finding out the best campsite and caravan parks to stay in that are inexpensive or - even better - free! Luckily, Sloways by NRMA Insurance can take you all over Australia, whisking you away from the fast-paced highways and high traffic areas and guiding you along caravan friendly roads throughout Australia. You’ll be able to stay at campsites and caravan parks trusted by NRMA Insurance, and stop at the best rest stops to make sure you’re alert and well rested for your drive. By planning your trips and where you stay, there’ll be a lot less stressful surprises along the way.   

MAKE A BUDGET

Decide upon an overall budget and stick to it! Just like in everyday life, budgets are important for keeping track of everything you’re spending. In your budget, make sure you account for everything. Even your morning flat white. Once you’ve been on the road for a little bit, check back in with your budget and revise if need be. You may find that if you actually need to cut back by one or two coffees a week, or you may be able to enjoy a few more.

In the same vein, planning out your meals each week is a super easy way to track your spending, and also to not waste petrol going to the shops every couple of days - not to mention you’ll spend less time manoeuvring a caravan around a tiny car park.

YOUR BIGGEST EXPENSE

One of your biggest expenses is going to be petrol, and there’s no way around it. But you can try and get the best deal. There are heaps of apps out there that can show you all the services stations in the area and what kind of prices they’re offering. Just head to the cheapest one near you!

RENT OUT YOUR HOME

You don’t need it right now, so why not let somebody else enjoy it? If you’re planning on a long trip, renting out your home can be a great way to keep the cash coming in. NRMA Caravan Insurance can help keep your caravan covered while you’re out and about on Australia’s backroads, and if you decide to rent out your home, you may want to consider NRMA Landlord Insurance to see if it suits your needs. Please check the TMDs for eligibility in your state.

To find out more about NRMA Caravan Insurance, simply call us on 132 132 to get a quote or find us online 24/7 at nrma.com.au.

This content is intended to be general in nature and is not financial or professional advice. We recommend you obtain independent professional advice relevant to your circumstances, before making any financial or commercial decisions.

Always read the PDS & TMDs from NRMA Insurance.