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New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

Solo Travel in a Campervan vs. Group Travel in a Campervan: What’s the Difference?

As a 20-something solo traveller who's been roaming the world for the last five years, I have seen the best and the worst of it when it comes to solo travel vs. group travel.  

During that time, I have solo travelled across the trains of Europe, sharing hostels with snoring friends, spent a year doing solo trips across the snowy pastures of North America, and, most recently, I completed the iconic big lap of Australia in a campervan. Some parts of this cross-country jaunt I tackled alone, while other stretches—like the wild West Coast from Broome to Perth—I shared with my best mates from uni.  

Having experienced both solo trips and group adventures, I’ve learned there’s a big difference between the two — especially when it comes to campervan hire travel. So, if you are debating on whether to invite your friends on a camper trip or to just go it alone, let’s dive into the ups and downs of both styles and help you figure out what’s right for your next Aussie road trip! 

TOP TIP: Planning a campervan hire road trip for the first time? Check out the full beginner's guide to hiring a campervan.  

 

Solo travel in a campervan: the freedom of the open road

Okay, first, let’s clear something up. Regardless of whether you go it alone or go camping with a group, hiring a motorhome is the best way to see Australia. But when I think back to my solo campervan adventures, the word that always comes to mind is freedom. There’s something magical about hitting the road alone and knowing that every decision is entirely up to you.  

In this section, I’ll share why people are drawn to solo travel in a campervan, how it can shape your journey, and the unexpected perks that come with it. If you’re the type who thrives on spontaneity, solo travel might just be your calling. 

 

Independence and flexibility

There are so many reasons to road trip Australia by yourself, but one of the best parts about solo van travel is the freedom to do exactly what you want when you want. There’s no need to negotiate stops or agree on a timeline with anyone else. Do you want to spend an extra day soaking up the sun at a campsite you’ve fallen in love with? No problem. You can take your time at every stop, set your own pace, and change plans on a whim. It’s the ultimate in flexible travel—no compromises required. 

 

Personal growth and reflection

Travelling solo in a campervan gives you the chance to really tune into yourself. With no one else around to distract you, you can reflect on your journey, connect with nature, and find a deeper sense of independence. I remember one quiet night camped under a blanket of stars in the Outback—just me and the wide-open sky.  

I journaled for hours, writing about the trip, all the things I had accomplished, and what else I was going to do on the trip. I was just so proud of myself, as corny as it sounds. It’s these moments of solitude on the road that have led to some of the most meaningful personal growth for me and have boosted my confidence and helped me discover what I’m really capable of. 

 

Safety considerations for solo travellers

When you're out on your own, staying safe while travelling is always a top priority. Whether you're camping under the stars or cruising through remote Outback roads, there are a few essential health and safety precautions to keep in mind:  

  • Stay in campgrounds: I personally always make sure to stay at well-lit, populated campgrounds—there's comfort in knowing others are nearby.  

  • Share your itinerary: Whether you choose to stay in campgrounds or enjoy a remote free camp, it’s smart to share your itinerary with a friend or family member, so someone knows where you’ll be and when.  

  • Stay connected: Reliable communication is key, too, especially in areas with limited reception. A satellite phone or a personal emergency beacon can be a lifesaver if you’re off the beaten path.  

 

Group travel in a campervan: the joy of shared experiences

While solo travel has its perks, there’s something special about hitting the road with your best mates or family. Group travel in a campervan brings a different kind of magic—shared sunsets, group hikes, and late-night campfire chats. In this section, I’ll explore the unique joys of travelling with a crew, from the laughter and connection to the practical benefits of splitting costs and tasks. 

 

Connection and bonding

There’s no doubt that group travel strengthens bonds. Whether it’s cooking meals together at the campsite, navigating new hikes, or simply enjoying a beautiful sunset as a group, these shared moments turn into lifelong memories. On my West Coast trip from Broome to Perth, those evenings spent cooking dinner with my friends in our campervan hire were some of my favourite moments of the trip.  

 

Dividing responsibilities and costs

One of the biggest perks of travelling in a group is sharing the workload. Whether it's splitting up the driving or assigning cooking duties, group travel lets you divide tasks and keep things running smoothly. Plus, splitting costs for fuel, food, and campsite fees makes travelling in a campervan so much more affordable. When my friends and I hit the West Coast, this was by far one of the most cost-effective sections of my trip—so there's no denying that having a group to share with lightens the financial load! 

 

Potential challenges in group travel

Of course, no adventure is without its challenges. When you travel with others, differing opinions on where to stop, what to eat, and how long to stay in one place can cause some tension. To avoid these hiccups, it’s helpful to set clear ground rules before you hit the road.  

My friends and I made sure to chat about our expectations and agreed on a few key things we wanted to do, and the rest, we took turns on a bit of a rotating schedule—this meant we saw everything we really wanted to, but also had the chance to take charge of a certain leg of the trip, so everyone else could just enjoy the ride! 

 

Key differences between solo and group travel in a campervan

Whether you're craving the independence of solo travel or the fun of shared experiences with friends, each type of van travel brings its own unique rhythm. Let’s look at some of the key differences between solo travel and group travel, so you can figure out which style suits you best. 

 

Decision-making and flexibility

When you’re travelling solo, the decision-making power is all yours. Feel like extending your stay at a scenic campsite or making a spontaneous detour? You’re free to do so. With group travel, though, it’s all about compromise. Decisions on stops, routes, and activities need group agreement, which can sometimes slow the pace or add structure to the trip. While you might lose some of the flexibility and decision-making power, you gain the benefit of shared ideas and input. 

 

Social experience vs. solitude

The social aspect of group travel is one of its biggest draws for many—you’re constantly surrounded by friends, sharing meals, conversations, and experiences. There’s always someone to laugh with or lean on. On the flip side, solo travel is perfect for those who crave quiet time and introspection. If you’re the type who enjoys peaceful solitude or personal reflection, travelling solo gives you space to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings without distractions. 

 

Financial costs

As I mentioned, one of the major perks of group travel is splitting the costs. Expenses like fuel, food, and campsites become more affordable when shared among a group. With solo travel, you’ll be covering all those expenses alone, which can add up quickly, especially on longer trips. But on the bright side, solo travellers have full control over their budget, and you can make decisions that fit your personal travel style, whether that’s cooking simple meals or choosing budget-friendly spots. 

 

Safety and security

There’s a certain peace of mind that comes with group travel—knowing you have others around can make you feel more secure. There’s always someone to watch your back, and decisions about safety can be made together. For solo travellers, taking extra precautions is a must. That means staying in well-populated areas, keeping in touch with someone back home, and having a solid plan for emergencies. But solo travel can still be safe with the right prep, and the sense of self-reliance is hugely rewarding. 

 

Pros and cons: which style of travel suits you best?

So, which is the better fit for you—solo travel or group travel in a campervan? Both offer incredible experiences, but they come with their own sets of pros and cons. In this section, I’ll break down the perks and challenges of each, so you can decide which style of travel works best for your next Australia road trip. 

 

Pros of solo travel

One of the best things about solo travel is the complete freedom it offers. You get to set your own pace and make all the decisions, whether it’s staying longer at a beautiful campground or taking a random detour. Solo travel also encourages deep personal reflection, helping you grow in ways you might not expect. And funnily enough, when you’re on your own, you might find it easier to meet new people since locals and fellow travellers tend to strike up conversations more freely. 

I remember a solo trip through the Grampians where I planned to stay just two nights but ended up staying five because I couldn’t get enough of the hikes and views. It’s moments like that where solo travel shines—you can let the road guide you without having to check in with anyone else. 

 

Cons of solo travel

But it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. It can get lonely at times, especially when you’re craving company. Plus, all the responsibilities fall on you, from driving to cooking to navigation. While this can be empowering, it’s also exhausting when you’re doing it day after day for weeks at a time. 

On my solo drive through the Nullarbor Plain, I distinctly remember wishing I had someone to take over the wheel. It was a long, straight stretch of road (the longest in Australia, to be exact), and the isolation was intense. Moments like that remind you that while solo travel gives you independence, it also means handling every single task on your own, from navigation to cooking up a quick meal after a long drive. It can definitely get tiring if you don’t take adequate breaks.  

 

Pros of group travel

On the flip side, group travel offers the fun of shared experiences. Whether it’s cooking together or simply laughing around the campfire, there’s something special about making memories with you friends like this. It’s also cheaper since you can split costs for everything from fuel to food, making it more budget-friendly than going solo. And don’t forget the division of labour—someone else can drive while you relax or take charge of dinner while you plan the next stop. 

One of the best memories I have of group travel is from my trip with friends down the West Coast, from Broome to Perth. We’d pull up at our campsite for the night, split up tasks—one person handled the fire, another prepped dinner—and then we’d all set up our camp chairs to share highlights from the day and play a game of cards. There’s something about that shared experience that makes the moments even more special, and the inside jokes we created along the way still make us laugh today. 

 

Cons of group travel

That said, travelling in a group isn’t always smooth sailing. Differing preferences about where to go or what to do can lead to friction, especially when everyone has their own idea of the perfect road trip itinerary. Privacy can also be hard to come by, and you may find yourself craving some solo time. Group travel requires more compromise, which can be tricky when everyone has different schedules or priorities. 

On that same trip, there were times when the four of us couldn’t agree on the day’s plans. One of us wanted to spend more time at Coral Bay, while another was keen to move on to the next destination. After a long conversation, we made a list of all the things we had to see on the trip and decided that everything else would just be a “see how we feel”. That way we all had settled our expectations, and if you didn’t want to go on that activity on the day, you could just stay back in the campervan. It was all pretty smooth sailing from that point onwards!  

 

Practical tips for both solo and group campervan trips

Whether you're travelling solo or with friends, there are a few tips that can make your campervan adventure smoother. Let’s break down what you need to know, from planning to packing, to make sure you’re ready for the open road. 

 

Planning and preparation

Preparation is key for any Australia road trip, but the approach differs depending on whether you’re travelling solo or in a group. For solo travel, planning tends to be more straightforward since it’s just you calling the shots. You’ll want to research campgrounds, plot your route using a road trip itinerary planner, and leave room for flexibility. In a group, though, more coordination is needed. Discuss the itinerary ahead of time to make sure everyone’s on the same page, and agree on how responsibilities like driving and cooking will be shared. 

 

Packing essentials for solo vs. group travel

When you’re travelling solo, you have a lot of freedom, depending on the size of your camper. However, be mindful that whatever you pack, you will have to find a space for it! So try to stick to the essentials and try to pack things that can be used for multiple situations.  

When you’re travelling as a group, packing light is crucial. Space in a campervan can be limited, and when multiple people are staying in it, it gets cluttered quickly! A top tip? Use soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases—they’re easier to store in tight spaces. For group travel, packing gets a little more communal. Make sure to coordinate who’s bringing what to avoid duplicates.  

READ MORE: For more tips on packing, check out the full guide to campervan road trip essentials

 

Campervan size and layout considerations

The size of your campervan can make or break the trip. If you’re on a solo holiday, a smaller, more agile camper is usually enough and makes for easier driving and parking. When you’re travelling as a group, though, you’ll need something larger and more spacious, with enough beds and seating to keep everyone comfortable. Look for vans with multiple sleeping areas or seating that convert into beds to maximise space. 

 

Ready to travel Australia in a campervan hire?

No matter which style of travel suits you best—solo travel or group travel—Australia is the perfect place to explore by campervan. Best of all, you can easily book your Apollo camper online and then pick it up from any Apollo branch before starting your road trip.  With their locations all around Australia, you can really experience it all! What are you waiting for?

 

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Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

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Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

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Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

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