How to Prepare Your Car for a Long-Distance Move Across Australia

Australia’s vast terrain is a dreamland for road trippers, but it can be a challenge for those relocating across the country. Whether you're moving from Sydney to Perth, Melbourne to Darwin, or Brisbane to Adelaide, preparing your car for a long-distance drive is essential—not just for your comfort, but also for your safety and budget.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of prepping your car for a long-distance move across Australia—service checks, packing tips, accessories, driving laws, and smart planning for different terrains and climates. Let’s get rolling.

1. Understand the Route and Conditions

Map Out the Journey

Australia’s highways vary widely in quality, traffic, and remoteness. Before hitting the road:

• Use GPS tools (Google Maps, Waze, etc.) to chart the route.

• Identify remote stretches where services (fuel, food, mechanics) may be rare.

• Highlight towns with accommodation and emergency services.

Check Road Conditions

Especially relevant for outback travel, flood-prone areas, and unsealed roads, you should:

• Visit state transport websites (e.g., VicRoads, Main Roads WA) for updates.

• Look for fire alerts, road closures, and weather warnings.

Plan Fuel Stops

In regional Australia, petrol stations can be hundreds of kilometers apart. Carry a jerry can or two (especially for diesel vehicles), and plan ahead where you’ll refuel.

2. Schedule a Full Vehicle Inspection

A comprehensive pre-trip inspection is non-negotiable if you want peace of mind.

Key Checks to Perform:

• Engine oil: Top up or change if due soon.

• Coolant: Essential for hot Aussie summers and engine health.

• Transmission & brake fluid

• Battery condition: A weak battery could strand you in the outback.

• Brake pads and rotors

• Air filter: Crucial if you’re going through dusty areas.

• Belts & hoses

• Wiper blades and washer fluid

Ask your mechanic for a logbook service or pre-trip inspection package.

3. Tyres – The Unsung Heroes

Tyres can make or break your long-distance drive.

What to check:

• Tread depth: Legal minimum in Australia is 1.5 mm, but anything under 3 mm isn't ideal for long drives.

• Air pressure: Check cold, and match manufacturer specs (adjust if towing or carrying heavy loads).

• Spare tyre: Ensure it’s inflated and usable.

• Tyre repair kit or portable inflator: Especially helpful in regional areas.

Consider upgrading to all-terrain tyres if your route includes unsealed roads or national parks.

4. Pack the Right Emergency Gear

Long road trips across Australia can involve long stretches of isolation. Be prepared.

Essential items:

• First-aid kit

• Portable jump starter

• Basic tool kit (wrench, pliers, tape, etc.)

• Spare oil, coolant, and water

• Flashlight and batteries

• Fire extinguisher

• Tow rope or recovery strap

• Reflective triangle

• Tyre inflator and sealant

• High-visibility vest

• Satellite phone or UHF radio (for remote areas)

5. Don’t Forget the Paperwork

You’ll be crossing state borders, so it’s important to have your car and personal documentation sorted.

Must-haves:

• Current driver's license

• Vehicle registration papers

• Valid CTP insurance (Compulsory Third Party)

• Roadside assistance coverage (check if it’s national)

• Interstate permit or border rules (in case of emergency regulation changes)

• E-tag for toll roads (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane)

It’s also wise to carry a printed copy of important documents—just in case of mobile signal issues.

6. Optimise for Comfort & Convenience

When you’re on the road for hours or even days, comfort counts.

Recommended Accessories:

• Neck and lumbar support cushions

• Sunshades and window tints

• Phone mount with wireless charging

• USB multi-port charger

• Cooler or mini fridge

• Foldable sunshade for the windscreen

• Bluetooth FM transmitter or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

• Fold-out awning (if stopping for breaks or camping)

Investing in seat covers, especially breathable ones, can make hot seats bearable in summer.

7. Prep for Australian Climates

From the heat of the outback to the chill of Tasmania, you might face a variety of weather zones.

Seasonal Notes:

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Be cautious of overheating, especially in QLD, WA, and NT.

• Winter (Jun–Aug): Mountainous regions like Snowy Mountains may require extra caution and even snow chains.

• Wet season in the Top End (Nov–Apr): Watch for flash flooding and unsealed road washouts.

8. Fuel Economy Tips for Long Drives

A cross-country trip can guzzle fuel if you're not careful.

Drive Smart:

• Maintain a steady speed.

• Use cruise control on flat highways.

• Avoid overloading the car unnecessarily.

• Close windows at highway speed to reduce drag.

• Check tyre pressure regularly.

• Use premium fuel only if your car requires it—don’t waste money otherwise.

Apps like FuelMap Australia help you find the cheapest petrol/diesel on your route.

9. Keep Entertainment and Navigation Ready

Long drives can get boring—especially with kids or pets in the car.

Must-Have Items:

• Download offline maps and music playlists.

• Portable Wi-Fi or hotspot plan.

• Audiobooks, podcasts, or in-car entertainment screens for passengers.

• Travel games or apps for children.

• Charging cables for every device.

Make sure your infotainment system is updated for optimal Bluetooth/GPS compatibility.

10. Car Insurance and Roadside Assistance

Even with the best prep, breakdowns and accidents can happen.

Review your insurance:

• Does your comprehensive policy cover interstate travel?

• Is towing included if you’re stuck in a remote area?

• Do you have access to a rental car in case your vehicle is undrivable?

Roadside assistance providers like NRMA, RACV, and RACQ offer Australia-wide coverage, often with plans tailored to long-distance travelers.

11. Consider a Pre-Trip Test Drive

If your car hasn’t been on a long drive recently—or ever—take it on a mini road trip before the big move. A day-long outing can help you:

• Detect unusual sounds

• Spot any mechanical issues

• Understand fuel efficiency in real-world conditions

• Tune your comfort preferences (seat position, climate control, etc.)

12. Preparing Your Car for a Trailer or Caravan

If you’re towing a trailer or caravan, your prep work becomes even more crucial.

Key steps:

• Ensure your car is rated for the Gross Trailer Mass (GTM).

• Fit an electric brake controller if required.

• Check that tow bar, hitch, and wiring are secure.

• Recheck tyre pressure (rear tyres often need extra pressure when towing).

• Review fuel economy impact—towing can increase fuel use by 20–40%.

Always distribute weight evenly, and load heavier items close to the axle.

13. Should You Ship or Drive Your Car Across Australia?

In some cases, it might be more cost-effective and stress-free to ship your vehicle and fly instead.

Pros of Driving:

• Control over travel schedule

• Opportunity for a scenic adventure

• No shipping delays

Cons of Driving:

• Wear and tear on the vehicle

• Accommodation and fuel costs

• Time-consuming, especially with children or pets

If you do choose to ship, make sure the car is emptied, clean, and documented for damage before pickup.

14. After Arrival – Post-Trip Checklist

Once you reach your destination, don’t forget to check your car again.

Post-trip maintenance:

• Recheck oil and coolant levels

• Inspect tyre condition and pressure

• Clean underbody and wheel arches to remove dirt or salt

• Wash the car (especially if bugs or dust have accumulated)

• Schedule a minor service or at least an oil change if the trip was 4,000+ km

15. Bonus Tips for Interstate Moves with Pets or Kids

• Use pet harnesses or crates that secure to seat belts.

• Plan pet-friendly accommodation.

• Avoid leaving pets in the car—even for a few minutes—in Australian heat.

• Keep snacks, water, and entertainment handy for kids.

• Stick to rest breaks every 2 hours.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your car for a long-distance move across Australia isn’t just about ticking off a checklist—it’s about ensuring your trip is safe, efficient, and enjoyable. With the right planning, your drive can be more than just a relocation—it can be the Aussie adventure of a lifetime.

So fuel up, tune up, and buckle up—Australia’s open roads await!