Road trip: Melbourne to Brisbane

Approx drive time: 4 hours 41 minutes

Distance: 386 km

It’s time to leave the cool cafe culture, alleyways and hip bars of Melbourne behind, hire a campervan in Melbourne, fill it with supplies and snacks and hit the road. Head north on the M31 for the road trip adventure of a lifetime.

First stop Falls Creek, a resort town in northeastern Victoria. It’s known as an alpine and cross-country ski center. There are things to here all year round – from skiing in the winter to fishing, kayaking, mountain biking and hiking in the summer.

Approx drive time: 5 hours 14 minutes

Distance: 457 km

From one extreme to the other, leave the action packed adrenaline filled Falls Creek and head to Canberra, the nation’s capital and a cultural hotspot. Rest and recover in Canberra with a trip to Parliament House, the National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Australia – where you are guaranteed to some world class exhibitions.   

Approx drive time: 3 hours 50 minutes

Distance: 286 km

Hop back into the campervan and take the route north towards Sydney via the traditional country towns of Berrima, Bowral and Mittagong. Pull in for a coffee stop or lunch at one of the local restaurants.  

The Southern Highlands is also home to waterfalls and spectacular lookouts in national park wilderness. Visit Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park, hike in the Bangadilly National park or pull up the campervan and picnic for looking out over Kangaroo Valley. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for  wallabies, wombats, kangaroos and myriad bird species when you’re driving.

Time:  5 – 6 hours

Distance: 300 km

You’ll probably want to spend a couple of days exploring Sydney – there’s so much to see here. If you’re sticking to a budget then check out our guide on the best free things to do in Sydney here.

If you’re looking for places to park up your campervan for a couple of nights then here are some suggestions of places to stay.

When you’ve had your fill of the city and are craving some time at the beach then hit the road and head North. A couple of hours of driving will take you to the Central Coast, home to some great beaches such as Ettalong Beach, Avoca Beach, Terrigal Beach and Forresters.

Break up this leg of the trip by spending the night at Port Stephens. There are heaps of campsites around this area, as well as coffee shops and places to pick up supplies.

Port Macquarie is a beautiful coastal destination known for its beaches and wildlife. If you’re stopping here then make sure you visit Lighthouse Beach, Sea Acres National Park and one of the many classic Aussie cafes for a great flat white.

Time: 4 hour 40 mins drive time

Distance: 380 km

From Port Macquarie you’re going to make your way to Coffs Harbour, another great place to stop and hang out at the beach. Try; Gallows, Park Beach, Sapphire, Emerald and Sawtell Beach. Other things to do in and around Coffs Harbour include; the Forest Sky Pier, Coffs Harbour Butterfly House, a segway tour or kayaking.

Head to the famous Byron Bay via the laid back beach towns of Yamba and Grafton. Spend a day or two here, soaking up the chilled out vibes and Aussie beach culture. Byron is a great spot for surfing, cafe culture and finding some zen with a few yoga classes.

Time: 2 hours

Distance: 160 km

When you’re feeling suitably relaxed complete the final leg of your trip by driving from Byron to Brisbane, get onto the M1. If you aren’t ready to let go of the beach then make a quick detour to other great beaches on the Gold Coast.

For more ideas on free things to do while you’re in Brisbane read our top tips here.

To hire a campervan in Melbourne or Brisbane speak to the Travellers Autobarn Team, or get a free quote online today.

If you want to read more of our Brisbane adventures, come and explore the dedicated Melbourne Road Trips. Happy Exploring!