Budget-Friendly Melbourne To Gold Coast Road Trip

This budget-friendly road trip starts in the vibrant city of Melbourne, Victoria, at the Mighty Camper Melbourne branch. Once you’ve picked up your camper, you must spend some time exploring the city and all its must-visit spots.

The National Gallery of Victoria is a haven for art enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse range of works. For nature lovers, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a serene oasis to explore and unwind. Don't forget to visit the Melbourne Zoo to get up close and personal with some amazing animals! And of course, a visit to Melbourne wouldn't be complete without exploring its famous laneways. These hidden gems are filled with quirky shops, cosy cafes, and fantastic street art.

As for accommodation, Big4 Melbourne Holiday Park is a great campground choice. They offer comfortable facilities, including great camping spots sites and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Next stop on this budget-friendly road trip is Wangaratta, and along the way get ready to experience a blend of scenic beauty and cultural charm! The drive takes you northeast for about 230 kilometres, offering picturesque countryside views along the way.

Once you reach Wangaratta, a charming town awaits you. Start your adventure with a relaxing picnic in the idyllic Merriwa Park, where lush green lawns and shady trees create the perfect atmosphere to unwind. Art enthusiasts should make a stop at the Wangaratta Art Gallery, which showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks from local and international artists. For nature lovers, the nearby Warby-Ovens National Park is a must-visit. Explore the park's bushwalking trails, spot native wildlife, and soak in the serenity of its natural beauty.

When it comes to the perfect place to park your camper, the Wangaratta Holiday Park is our go-to. With great camping spots and campsite facilities, this will be a wonderful place to rest on your road trip north.

The road trip continues, and up next is the country town of Wagga Wagga. Along this scenic drive, you'll be treated to picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and charming country towns along the way.

Once you arrive in Wagga Wagga, be sure to refresh with a dip at the Wagga Beach, a lovely spot to relax, swim, or have a picnic by the Murrumbidgee River. For some tranquility and natural beauty, head over to the Victory Memorial Gardens, where you can wander among stunning floral displays and pay tribute to fallen soldiers. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the Wiradjuri Trail, a pathway that takes you through the serene bushland and offers insights into the rich indigenous heritage of the area.

The BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Wagga Wagga is a place that we always love to stay at when in the area. This family-friendly holiday park has great campsites and a range of facilities to ensure a relaxing stay.

After what is sure to be a wonderful time in Wagga Wagga, it’s on to the city of Canberra that will be a 3-hour journey filled with scenic country beauty.

Once you arrive in Canberra, you'll find a plethora of cultural attractions to explore, perfect for a budget-friendly trip. Kick off your visit by immersing yourself in art at the National Gallery of Australia, where you can admire impressive collections from both Australian and international artists. Dive into the country's rich history at the National Museum of Australia, which showcases fascinating exhibitions and interactive displays. Don't forget to pay your respects at the solemn yet awe-inspiring Australian War Memorial, honouring the sacrifices of the nation's servicemen and women.

When it comes to accommodation, we love staying at Crestview Tourist Park in Canberra. This cosy retreat offers comfortable campervan sites, surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape after a day of sightseeing.

Sydney is up next on this budget-friendly road trip, and trust us when we say, the drive here won’t disappoint. You’ll pass through charming towns and along picturesque landscapes of Australian countryside, with some great spots to stop off along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy a bite to eat.

Once you arrive in Sydney, get ready to explore some iconic landmarks. The Sydney Opera House is a must-visit, known for its distinctive architecture and world-class performances. Darling Harbour is another popular destination with its waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment options. For a beachside escape, head to Manly Beach, where you can soak up the sun, surf the waves, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Bondi Beach, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and golden sands, is also worth a visit.

To make the most of your stay, book into the BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Avina. This resort offers a range of amenities, including great campsites, a swimming pool, and BBQ facilities, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay for your time in Sydney.

From the vibrant city of Sydney, it’s on to the relaxed coastal town of Newcastle. This promises to be a delightful drive filled with scenic beauty and exciting destinations.

Once you arrive in Newcastle, there's a myriad of things to do and explore. Start by soaking up the sun at Nobbys Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply unwind on the golden sands. For breathtaking coastal views, take a stroll along the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a beautiful elevated pathway with panoramic vistas. If you're up for some adventure, head to the Bogey Hole, a historical rock pool carved into the coastline, perfect for a dip or some cliff jumping fun! Art enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Newcastle Art Gallery, showcasing an impressive collection of Australian and international artworks.

After a day of exploration, unwind and relax at the NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park, which is ideally located in close proximity to Stockton Beach's stunning dunes.

Next up on this budget-friendly road trip is Port Macquarie. As you hit the road, you'll be treated to picturesque views of the coastline and charming towns along the way.

Once you get here, Tacking Point Lighthouse, which is perched atop a dramatic headland, is a must-visit spot. Take a stroll around the area, soak in the stunning vistas, and keep an eye out for whales during their migration season. A visit to Lighthouse Beach is always a delight, as you relax on the sandy shores, catch some waves, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the coastline. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Koala Hospital, a unique sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting these adorable creatures. Learn about their conservation efforts and even get a chance to see koalas up close.

When it comes to great places to park your motorhome, the NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park is our go-to. Located near the waterfront, and offering great facilities and camping sites, this will be a perfect base for your time in Port Macquarie.

Continuing north, you’ll get to Coffs Harbour, but not before passing through charming towns, rolling countryside and even spotting glimpse of sparkling ocean.

When you get to Coffs Harbour, or first stop is usually Diggers Beach, where you can relax on golden sands, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and bask in the sun. If you happen to be visiting on a Sunday, don't miss the Harbourside Markets in Coffs Harbour! Stroll through the vibrant stalls, sample delicious local treats, and browse unique arts and crafts. For panoramic views, head to Korora Lookout. From this elevated vantage point, you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the coastline, stretching as far as the eye can see. Another must-do while in Coffs Harbour is a visit to the Forest Sky Pier. This striking architectural marvel extends over the treetops, offering a bird's-eye view of the surrounding lush rainforest.

When it's time to rest, Reflections Moonee Beach Holiday Park provides a cosy and picturesque accommodation option. Nestled by the beach, they offer a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and stunning natural surroundings.

Next up on this budget-friendly adventure is the popular coastal town of Byron Bay. Along the drive you'll be greeted by stunning ocean vistas, charming coastal towns, and a relaxed vibe.

Once you arrive, a must-visit spot is the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. Perched on Australia's easternmost point, this historic beacon offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the nearby Arakwal National Park, where you can explore tranquil rainforests, take leisurely walks along picturesque trails, and perhaps even spot some native wildlife. If you're in need of some beach time, head over to Belongil Beach. This secluded stretch of sand is perfect for unwinding, catching waves, or simply soaking up the sun.

For accommodation, we love staying at Reflections Byron Bay Holiday Park. They offer a range of great campsites for your camper, and are conveniently located near the town centre, allowing easy access to all that Byron Bay has to offer.

The last stop on this Melbourne to Gold Coast road trip, is of course, the Gold Coast.

There are so many things to see and do on the Gold Coast, with something to suit every type of traveller. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary invites you to cuddle koalas and meet kangaroos up close. If a little beach time is on the cards, then head to Burleigh Heads which is a beachside haven known for its laid-back vibe and great surf breaks. Be sure to catch some rays and dip your toes in the sparkling waters at Surfers Paradise Beach, the iconic heart of the Gold Coast! For a unique culinary experience, head to Miami Marketta, a vibrant street food market that offers a smorgasbord of delicious eats.

After exploring the Gold Coast, it's time to journey north to Brisbane where the Might Camper branch is located. The drive from the Gold Coast to Brisbane takes approximately an hour, depending on traffic. Once you arrive, simply return your campervan to the Mighty Camper Brisbane branch, where the friendly team will be ready to welcome you back.

Ready for your next adventure?

From down south in Melbourne, all the way up to the sunny Gold Coast, we hope that this budget-friendly road trip has inspired you to get out there and start exploring Australia! We’re sure you’ll find many more gems along the way, but this guide is just a few spots we absolutely love and should help to make your road trip travel itinerary planning all the easier.

If you’re ready to hit the open road in a Mighty Camper, then be sure to head online or into a branch to book your motorhome or campervan hire today!