Planning an Australian Outback Vacation

[Turkeypen]

Need some advice from Aussie Mudders-

I am in the initial stages of planning a family vacation in Australia. Would like to spend a week touring the outback in a LC or Hilux, probably taking off from Melbourne and heading to Alice Spings, Ayers Rock, etc. Sort of a big loop. Thinking of renting from Britz and camping along the way.

So, here are some questions:

1. I understand that Aussies are some of the friendliest people in the world. How are americans looked upon these days?

2. What time of year would be best?

3. Who should I rent from?

4. What would be a good route?

All advice gladly taken. I have never travelled outside the states and am a little apprehensive.

 

[stainless 40/45]

Hi
Spent a month there last year vacationing and looking for cruisers ..Rented from Britz they charge yu for everthing,they will even suggest you need coverage for the underside of your rig(which we got since we rented a big camper). Yes the nicest people in this world. We feel we waisted lots of time at alice springs and if we could do it over would have spent much more time in western Au and passed up alice springs altogether. If there is any thing i can help you with don't hesitate to call or email me

james
1 631 363 2428

 

[lacruiser]

I suggest you join the Oz cruiser owner yahoo group:

lcool_aus-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

ask the questions there, you'll get some good info

 

[hoser]

How long will your trip be in total? I've only been to Oz twice and would love to go back again. I really enjoy QLD and would like to drive the entire coast from Brisbane all the way to Darwin next time. I think that would take 3-4 weeks. We also stopped off in Uluru which was a good experience but for us, the coastal areas were much more enjoyable.

I think the best time of year to go depends on where you want to go. Jan-Feb is their summer and is nice Sydney/Melbourne but would be bloody hot in Alice Springs. Take a look at their historical climate. In general, I'd say go in their autumn (Mar-April) because the weather is generally good everywhere and the crowds are less. You don't want to go during cyclone season and you should try and avoid going during their holidays. They take those seriously and everything closes down.

We also rented from Britz as they are probably the largest camper dealer out there. A bit pricey but no problems at all.

The Australians are very friendly and very family oriented. You'll see families traveling everywhere together. It's a great place and a country I've thought of moving to many times.

 

[Turkeypen]

Thanks to all! Once again, Mud comes through. Frazer Island looks like Eden, and I too would be looking for exportable cruisers (hopefully, my future retirement business). From the US east coast, this looks like a 24 hour flight . . . .