There is so much to see and do in Queensland. From its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, to quaint country towns and vibrant cities, this beautifully diverse state is packed full of incredible experiences that are waiting for you. The best way to ensure you can explore all the epic things to do in Queensland, is hire a campervan from our local branches and hit the road!
If you’re wanting to rent a van to travel Queensland in, but you’re on a budget, then this is the blog for you! So read on because we’re going to list our top 15 budget-friendly things to do in this state that we think should be added to your road trip itinerary planner.
Before we get into that, you should know that Mighty Campers have a great range of campervans to suit every budget, group size and need. So before you set off on your Queensland adventure, make sure you check out what we have on offer, and head to our dedicated branches in Brisbane or Cairns so you can start your Australian road trip the right way.
Tips for a budget-friendly campervan trip in Queensland
A budget-friendly campervan trip in Queensland is easy, especially if you consider these little tips and tricks. These will help with your van travel planning, as well as make life on the road all the easier and stress-free.
Firstly, you’ve got to think about what kind of trip you’re dreaming of. Do you want to maximise the activities you do, or are you a foodie searching for all the delicious places to dine, or are you a nature lover ready to immerse yourself in the bush? Once you know where your priorities are, then you can work on ways to save money. For example, if you want to do as many activities as possible, then you could look to cook budget-friendly meals in your well-equipped campervan to save money on eating out. Foodies might want to pre-plan the dining options that are a must-try, and skip some adventure activities that aren’t as exciting to them.
Secondly, when you rent a travel van, it’s a good idea to have a travel route in mind to avoid missing places or having to back-track. The THL Roadtrip app is a great tool to help you pre-plan your trip, and to guide you when you’re on the road.
Booking campsites in advance is another great way to save money as many campgrounds have deals for multiple night stays or off peak bookings. With some great power camping sites and unpowered camping spots on offer throughout Queensland, this is the perfect budget-friendly option for your campervan road trip.
Queensland is full of popular and well-known Australian attractions, many of which allow you to be immersed in nature. These spots are also usually free or cheap to experience. For example, heading on a bush walk, searching for waterfalls, or spending the day at the beach. These are all unforgettable experiences that will do wonders for your travel budget.
Of course, everyone loves a great deal, and on the Mighty Campers website you’ll find some great deals to help you save money and get you out on the road sooner.
Top 15 things to do in Queensland on a budget
1. Step back in time at the Queensland Museum
The Queensland Museum is an incredible space that is sure to have the whole family captivated from the moment you step foot inside. With exhibits ranging from natural history and cultural heritage to inspiring science and human achievement, there is something to spark your interest around every turn. The museum has a mix of permanent galleries and touring exhibitions, with many of them offering an interactive experience.
Located just a short walk across the river from the Brisbane CBD, this easily accessible museum is a must-visit. There is plenty of parking for your campervan and it’s just $17 to enter, making this a great budget-friendly experience that the whole family is sure to love.
2. Relax at Broad Beach in Burleigh
You might be wondering - What should I not miss on the Gold Coast? Well a visit to the ever-popular Broad Beach is one not to miss! This is the epitome of coastal lifestyle and is where the sand meets sophistication, all just 10 minutes’ drive from the thriving Surfers Paradise. Here you can enjoy the picturesque white sandy lifeguard-patrolled Kurrawa Beach, before wandering along the Broadbeach foreshore to discover kids playgrounds and parks, popular cafes, bars, restaurants and shops. This vibrant area has something for all ages and is a must-add to your road trip itinerary.
3. Trek Mt Coot-Tha’s Summit Circuit
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city of Brisbane then there is no better place to drive to than the Mt Coot-tha Summit Circuit. This 5km circuit trail will take you along beautiful bushland and ancient rocks up to the historic summit where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Brisbane. Before you make the descent back you can enjoy a drink and bite to eat at the iconic heritage-listed Summit Restaurant and Bar.
This great walk is an easy 20-minute drive out of the city of Brisbane and is free to do, making it a great addition to your budget-friendly itinerary. The walk is suitable for those with a small degree of fitness, making it a great thing to do for all ages.
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
4. Relax at Roma Street Parklands
One Australian attraction that you might have heard of is the Roma Street Parklands. Situated just 10 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, this is a wonderful place to visit when you feel like a relaxing day in the city. With designer gardens and sprawling lawns that encompass 16 hectares of stunning parklands, it’s a great excuse to pack a picnic and find a place to relax for a few hours. There are playgrounds and barbeques that are free to enjoy, as well as a year-round calendar of events to keep the whole family entertained.
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
5. Marvel at the beauty of Cairns Botanic Gardens
Bursting with beauty and natural wonder is the awe-inspiring Cairns Botanic Gardens. This tropical paradise is known as one the best exhibitions of tropical plants in Australia, so it’s no surprise it’s made it to our list. With an information centre, multiple garden displays, free walking tours, bird walks and educational experiences for kids, this is a wonderful budget-friendly experience for all ages.
6. Discover Wallaman Falls
Bursting with beauty and a destination that we think is a must-add to any budget-friendly holiday is a visit to the incredible Wallaman Falls in the Girringun National Park. Located in Tropical North Queensland, this is the highest permanent single-drop waterfall in Australia, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most breathtaking places in Queensland. Here you’ll be immersed within one of the oldest rainforests on earth that is home to many endangered plants and animals. To get here you can take a leisurely drive through country towns, around 1 hour south-west from the town of Ingham. It’s free to visit and there are some great camping sites and camping facilities nearby for those who want to stay overnight.
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
7. Browse Gold Coast farmers markets
When visiting the Gold Coast then we highly recommend taking a stroll through the Gold Coast Farmers Markets. Here you can wander along, sampling delicious local food and coffee, all whilst stocking up on fresh organic fruit and vegetables for your Mighty Camper fridge. There are a great selection of other stalls to discover with something for all ages. These popular markets are on every Sunday from 6am – 11:30am and are located at the Merrimac State High School in Mermaid Waters.
8. Take a dip at Currumbin Rock Pools
If a relaxing day is on the cards then a trip to the picturesque Currumbin Rock Pools is a must! Here you can relax in the shade under native gum trees, dip into the lovely rock pools, enjoy a picnic BBQ lunch before taking a stroll along the scenic walking trails. A perfect activity for all ages, this is a great addition to any budget-friendly holiday check list.
9. Soak in some culture at HOTA
HOTA, Home of the Arts, is a great must-do cultural experience, right in the heart of Surfers Paradise in the Gold Coast. There really is something for everyone here and it is sure to captivate you from the moment you arrive. This iconic Gold Coast destination is the perfect blend of art, culture, entertainment and lifestyle. There is a mix of free and ticketed exhibits to enjoy, meaning that depending on your budget you can find something that suits your group. So if you’re a foodie, an art lover, or just want to see why this place has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike, we highly recommend stopping by.
10. Cool off at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
A trip to Cairns wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the ever-popular Esplanade Lagoon. Here you can cool off in the picturesque saltwater lagoon that is perfect year-round, is free to use and has a lifeguard on duty, making it safe for all ages. After a swim in the lagoon, you can then wander along the esplanade and enjoy all that this lively area has to offer. There are BBQ facilities, amenities and kids playgrounds on offer, as well as fitness stations, public art displays and dining options to enjoy.
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
11. Explore Noosa National Park
Arguably one of the most breathtaking places in Queensland is the iconic Noosa National Park. Here you can wander along the gorgeous coastal track that wraps around the Noosa headland, taking in the scenery. You’ll enjoy a mostly sealed path that has native bushland to one side and the crystal clear ocean to the other. Keep an eye out for dozing koalas above and playful dolphins in the sea. A popular spot for surfers, runners and sight-seers alike, the track is suitable for all ages and is free to enjoy. A must-do of things to do in Australia and on your Queensland road trip.
12. Spot native animals at David Fleay Wildlife Park
Nature lovers are sure to want to add this next stop onto their Queensland road trip itinerary planner. David Fleay Wildlife Park is where you can spot a host of Australian native wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, emus and even shy platypus. Admission into the park is cheap and will be well worth it, plus they are open every day so it’s an easy one to add into your schedule when visiting the Gold Coast. An experience that we think will be an exciting and educational activity that the whole family will love.
13. Take a swing at Putt Putt Golf
Mermaid Beach isn’t just home to some of Australia’s most iconic beaches, it’s also got plenty of fun activities that are perfect for those looking for budget-friendly options. One of our favourites is Putt Putt Golf! With three themed mini golf courses to enjoy and the option of playing in the day or night, this is a great addition to any road trip list. They have affordable passes to choose from and are open to all ages so the whole family can enjoy a game.
14. Give stand-up paddle boarding a try
You’ve probably seen it done, but have you ever tried stand up paddle boarding? Well your budget-friendly Queensland road trip is the perfect time to try! Currumbin Creek Boatshed invites you to hire a board and follow the river along to Tallebudgera Creek. This fun-filled activity will have you on and in the water having a great time along the way. If kayaking is more your thing then they also have the gear for you. They are open every day, have very affordable prices and are easy to get to in Currumbin on the Gold Coast.
15. Admire artworks at QAGOMA
Art lovers are definitely going to want to add this one to the road trip itinerary list. QAGOMA is a combination of two incredible riverside galleries; Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. These two galleries sit just 150m apart, within the Queensland Cultural Centre. There is so much to see and do here so make sure to leave enough time to take it all in. They have a great selection of events, installations and interactive experience to enjoy, as well as spaces for kids to get creative. Plus, when you need a little pick-me-up, you’ll find some great cafes and restaurants around the grounds. They are open daily from 10am-5pm and can be found at Stanley Place in South Brisbane. Admission is free and there is plenty of parking space for your Mighty Camper.
Book your next Mighty adventure
So there you have it, our 15 budget-friendly things to do in Queensland on your road trip. Of course, you’re sure to find many more along the way on your travels, but these are a few that we think you won’t want to miss!
So if you’re ready to hit the road and discover Queensland then make sure to book your Mighty Camper today in a branch or online. Plus for more travel inspiration, be sure to check out our other travel blogs!
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery
Image Source: TEQ Visual Gallery