Why Australia is made for vanlife
If there’s a country built for road-tripping, it’s Australia. With endless coastlines, dramatic deserts, lush rainforests, and tiny outback towns, there’s no better way to explore it all than with your home on wheels. Whether you’re chasing waves near Byron Bay or stargazing in the Outback, life in a van gives you total freedom—and a front-row seat to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
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Before going all-in and buying a van Down Under, renting is a smart (and fun) first step. It lets you experience the lifestyle, test different setups, and figure out what works for your adventure style. Below, you’ll find a lineup of the most popular campervan rental companies in Australia—from backpacker-friendly to full-on luxury.
1. JUCY Rentals: Bright, bold, and budget-friendly
JUCY is impossible to miss with their bright green and purple vans. Known for their playful branding and affordable pricing, they’re a hit with budget travelers and backpackers alike.
- Great for shorter trips or budget getaways
- Offers everything from small cars to mini campervans
- Most setups include beds, fridges, and basic kitchens
Locations:
Pick up in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, Adelaide, or Perth.
2. Britz: The comfortable all-rounder
Britz strikes a solid balance between comfort and value. Their vans are modern, well-equipped, and great for couples or families who want a little extra comfort on the road.
- Vans range from 2-berth campers to 6-berth motorhomes
- Many include bathrooms, full kitchens, and solar panels
- 24/7 roadside assistance included
Locations:
Available in major cities with flexible one-way rentals.
3. Apollo Camper: Big, reliable, and everywhere
Apollo has been around for decades and runs one of the biggest fleets in the country. They also own other brands like Cheapa Campa and Maui, so you’ll find everything from backpacker vans to full-blown motorhomes.
- Compact campers, 4WD rigs, and luxury RVs available
- User-friendly app for booking and managing your rental
- Lots of locations and drop-off flexibility
4. Travellers Autobarn: Laid-back and wallet-friendly
Travellers Autobarn is all about keeping it simple, affordable, and fun. They’re super popular with students and young couples who want flexibility and don’t mind roughing it a little.
- Unlimited kilometers on most rentals
- Many vans come with free camping gear
- Long-term rental deals available
Locations:
Depots in Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne, Darwin, and Perth.
5. Maui Motorhomes: Vanlife, but make it luxury
Maui takes camper travel to the next level with premium finishes and hotel-style amenities. It’s part of the Apollo family but with a definite upgrade in comfort and design.
- High-end interiors, toilets, showers, and fully stocked kitchens
- Perfect for couples or families who love their creature comforts
- 24/7 support and a sleek, modern fleet
6. Spaceships Rentals: Simple, stealthy, and smart
Spaceships keeps it minimal with converted minivans that are easy to drive and great for solo travelers or couples. They’re low-profile, efficient, and super easy to park.
- Excellent fuel economy
- Basic but practical features
- Budget-friendly with flexible insurance options
Locations:
Pickups available in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns.
What to consider when choosing a campervan rental
- Budget: Don’t forget to factor in fuel, insurance, and potential campground fees.
- Size vs. Comfort: Bigger vans mean more space, but they’re also harder to park and drive.
- Driving experience: If you’re new to vanlife, start with something compact.
- Season & climate: Australia gets hot, cold, and everything in between—make sure your van’s prepped for the weather.
- Distance: Australia’s huge. Unlimited kilometers can save you from surprise charges.
Why renting first just makes sense
Renting before buying is a no-brainer. You’ll test the lifestyle, try different van styles, and figure out what really matters to you on the road. Read our deep dive on this smart strategy here: Should I Rent a Campervan Before Committing to Vanlife?
Tips for an epic Aussie road trip
- Book early: Rentals get snapped up quickly during holidays and summer.
- Go 4WD: If you’re hitting the Outback or remote tracks, consider a 4WD camper.
- Use camping apps: WikiCamps and CamperMate are gold for finding free spots, water fills, and dump stations.
- Watch for wildlife: Kangaroos love dusk. Drive carefully and avoid night driving when you can.
Your Aussie van adventure starts here
From surfing coastlines to red dirt highways, Australia’s one of the best countries in the world for vanlife. And renting a campervan is the best way to dive in without diving deep into your bank account. Whether you want a no-frills weekend getaway or a month-long road trip in style, there’s a van out there with your name on it.
So pick a company, pack your gear, and get ready to explore. We’ll be here with more tips, guides, and roadside inspiration when you need it.
Need more help planning your trip? Check out our guides on finding free campsites, working while traveling, and what to pack for life on the road.
Be inspired on YouTube
How to Rent a Campervan in Australia (Without Getting Ripped Off)
