Planning Your Holiday around Australia
Australia is the smallest continent and the largest island in the world. It is almost as big as the 48 adjacent United States. There are about 20.4 million people and they are largely concentrated in th eastern and south-eastern coastal urban regions. This means that there are big open spaces to explore in the remainder of the country, and this can often be accomplished by car. Pretty coastlines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wild life are there for the traveller to see.
A traveler with an international driving permit or a validated American or European driving licence in English can easily arrange for a car rental at the airport or hotel. There are heaps of car hire companies providing various types of vehicles, from different makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is a vehicle to suit any need or requirement. Just to exemplify, camping enthusiasts can get campervans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come fitted with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Some even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini kitchen. If you are travelling in more rugged terrain, there are 4WDs. If budget is sensitive, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to enjoy some luxury.
One should be knowledgeable with the fundamentals of driving conditions in Australia: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. Expect the car rental company to supply thorough information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), processes in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation beforehand will ensure a successful and pleasant car vacation in Australia.