There’s never been a better time to plan a Western Australia road trip. Car hire is affordable, fuel prices are reasonable, and WA has some of the best driving routes in the country. Whether you’re picking up a minivan hire in Perth for the family or setting off solo, here are 7 essential tips to help you plan the road trip of a lifetime.
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Tip 1: Stay Flexible
This is probably the most important piece of advice for any road trip. Flexibility is exactly why road trips are so much fun in the first place — rather than following a fixed tour itinerary, you can explore anywhere the road takes you. Stay open to unplanned stops along the way; you never know what’s just around the bend.
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Tip 2: Bring a Real Map as Backup
It might feel old-fashioned when GPS exists, but a paper map earns its place on a WA road trip — mobile signal drops out for long stretches in regional and outback areas, and GPS apps can’t help you if there’s no reception. A map also makes a great souvenir once you’ve marked up your route along the way.
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Tip 3: Pack an Emergency Kit
Accidents happen, so it pays to be prepared. If you’re taking advantage of our mini bus hire in Perth, WA, your vehicle already comes equipped with basic emergency items, and we’re on standby to arrange roadside assistance if needed. For a full rundown of what else to pack, this RAC-endorsed road trip checklist is a good place to start.
Tip 4: Travel With Friends and Split the Cost
There’s nothing better than hitting the open road with a group. Travelling together also means splitting the cost of fuel several ways. If you’re taking advantage of 8-seater car rental in Perth, it’s hard to imagine a more economical way to see the countryside — and you’ll have plenty of company wherever you venture.
Tip 5: Drive the Coral Coast
This is, without a doubt, one of the best routes for a Western Australia road trip. Arrange budget car rental in Perth and drive all the way to Exmouth and back, stopping to hike, fish and swim along the way. The full route takes well over a week even at several hundred kilometres a day — but you don’t need to complete the whole drive to enjoy it. Australia’s Coral Coast has the full rundown of stops worth building your route around.
Tip 6: Plan Your Fuel Stops
WA is enormous, and towns can be hours apart with nothing in between. Fill up whenever you get the chance rather than waiting until the tank runs low, and use our fuel and trip cost calculator to budget your route before you set off — especially on longer legs like the Coral Coast drive above.
Tip 7: Watch for Wildlife at Dawn and Dusk
Kangaroos and other wildlife are most active around sunrise and sunset, especially on regional and country roads. Slow down at those times and avoid driving at night where you can — it’s one of a handful of WA-specific driving habits worth knowing before you go. Our guide on things to sort before hiring a car in Perth covers a few more.
Western Australia Road Trip FAQs
How long does a Western Australia road trip take?It depends on the route. A loop around the South West can be done in a long weekend, while the full Coral Coast drive to Exmouth and back takes well over a week.
What’s the best time of year for a WA road trip?
Spring (September to November) is ideal for mild weather and wildflower season further north; winter suits the South West’s greener landscapes.
Do I need a 4WD for a Western Australia road trip?
Not for sealed main routes like the Coral Coast Highway or South West roads. A 4WD only becomes necessary if you’re planning to head off unsealed tracks, which most standard rental agreements don’t cover.
How much should I budget for fuel on a WA road trip?
It varies a lot with distance and vehicle size — use our fuel and trip cost calculator to get a route-specific estimate before you go.
What’s the best car to hire for a Western Australia road trip?
For a couple or small family on sealed roads, a standard sedan or SUV is plenty. For groups, an 8-seater or minibus works out cheaper per person and gives everyone more room for luggage.
Ready for Your Western Australia Road Trip?
However you want to explore WA, the right hire car makes it easier. Get a quote and hire a car in Perth with Ace Rent A Car, or contact us if you have questions about planning your route.