Travelling around Australia by Car
The smallest continent and biggest island in the world is Australia. It is almost as large as the 48 adjoining U.S.. 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 huge open spaces to explore in the remainder of the country, and this can often be done by car. Stunning coastal lines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with native plants and wild life are there for the traveler to discover.
A visitor with an international driving permit or a validated American or European driving permit in English can easily organize for a car rental at the airport or hotel. There are lots of car hire companies offering many types of vehicles, from diverse makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is constantly a vehicle type to suit any need or preference. Just to illustrate, those who wish to camp can get camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come ready with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Deluxe models even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini kitchen. If you are travelling in more rough terrain, there are four-wheel-drives. For the budget oriented, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to travel in style.
One should be familiar with the basics 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. The car hire company will usually supply you with detailed information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), emergency processes, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation beforehand will assure a successful and pleasant car vacation in Australia.
