3 Countries, 3 Epic Roadtrip Adventures: Explore the Australia, New Zealand and the USA by Campervan

To truly experience a place to its full potential, you’ve got to try renting a campervan and hitting the open road! New Zealand, Australia, or the USA are some of the most campervan-friendly destinations in the world and offer many unforgettable experiences! However, unless you have a lot of time to explore, you probably won’t be able to get through everything each country has to offer, but here are some of the road trips we’d say you shouldn’t miss out on!

Australia: Melbourne to The Gold Coast

When you’re Down Under, you have to make it your mission to set out on the unforgettable drive from Melbourne to the Gold Coast. This route spans about 1700 kilometres and takes you through Australia’s best mix of city, coast, and countryside. To make the most of this trip, set aside about 10 to 12 days so you can take your time enjoying all the route has to offer and so  you don’t have to rush from one place to another:

  • Start in Melbourne, where the coffee culture, laneway art, and friendly locals set the tone for your trip
  • Head north through the Yarra Valley and stop for a tasting at one of its many award-winning wineries
  • Continue toward Canberra, Australia’s capital, and explore its museums and galleries
  • Drive on to Sydney and see the famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge
  • Follow the Pacific Highway toward the Central Coast and take time to enjoy laid-back seaside towns like Terrigal and Coffs Harbour
  • Make a stop in Byron Bay and enjoy the chilled, slow-paced coastal vibe
  • Finish on the Gold Coast, where you will find theme parks, more stunning beaches, and a vibey nightlife

On the trip from Melbourne to the Gold Coast, you will experience a variety of slow-paced coastal towns to vibrant city areas; there’s a good balance between them. And, doing it in a campervan will be an experience in and of itself. If you need to book a campervan, check out Travellers Autobarn’s campervans available in Melbourne. Here you’ll find the best campervan for your trip.

New Zealand: Christchurch to Queenstown

New Zealand’s South Island has some fantastic places to see, with countless waterfalls, mountains and more; it’s no wonder you’d want to go there. By roadtripping from Christchurch to Queensland, you can experience some of the most picturesque places in the world! This drive covers about 480 kilometres and is best enjoyed over five to seven days, with plenty of stops to take in all the breathtaking sites along the way. 

Here’s how to make the most of your Christchurch to Queenstown road trip:

  • Start your journey in Christchurch, a city known for its stunning gardens as well as its arts and culture
  • Next, drive south to Lake Tekapo to see its mesmerising blue water and the small stone Church of the Good Shepherd
  • Continue to Mount Cook National Park to walk the trails and take in views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain
  • Lake Pukaki is a great place to visit and just relax, it also has a wonderful view at sunrise and sunset
  • Make your way to Omarama and check out the clay cliffs, or even try gliding if you are feeling adventurous
  • Move on to Cromwell and try out some of the Central Otago wines and fresh fruits before you move on
  • Queenstown is where all the action is at! Here you can go bungee jumping, jet boat riding, or simply chill on the shores of Lake Wakatipu

Over and above the views, the trip from Christchurch to Queenstown offers a blend of relaxation and excitement, even more so since you’re doing it in a campervan. Look at the campervan hire options in Christchurch from Traveller’s Autobarn and book your van early so you’ll be ready for your trip! 

USA: Los Angeles to Las Vegas

The USA is a vast country filled with a seemingly endless choice of road trips. But if you’re going to do a road trip, it has to be the drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. The short but thrilling route covers about 435 kilometres (270 miles) and can be spread over a few days, though taking extra time allows you to enjoy the journey to its full potential. You’ll experience some of the desert campgrounds, or even see the epic Grand Canyon, which is officially recognised as one of the natural seven wonders of the world. 

This is what your trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas could look like: 

  • Start in Los Angeles and visit Hollywood Boulevard or Santa Monica Pier before heading east out of the city
  • Pass through the Mojave Desert and stop to take photos of the wide open landscapes and iconic Joshua trees
  • Make a detour to Joshua Tree National Park for a walk among the rock formations and desert views
  • Continue to Barstow, a classic Route 66 stop known for its quirky roadside attractions
  • Stop in Baker to see the World’s Tallest Thermometer and grab a bite at a diner
  • Cross the Nevada state line, and soon you will see the bright lights of Las Vegas on the horizon
  • Arrive in Las Vegas and enjoy everything the city has to offer, from shows and restaurants to casinos and nightlife

This journey truly has a lot to offer, from the natural rock formations at Joshua Tree National Park to the Las Vegas Sphere lighting up the city, you’ll have a blast! For the right campervan, check out your campervan rental options in Los Angeles to rent one for your trip to Las Vegas. 

Start Planning Your Road Trip

Each of these road trips offers a chance to experience something unforgettable. Whether you prefer the surf towns of Australia, the mountain lakes of New Zealand, or the desert roads of the United States, adventure is waiting just beyond the city limits.

Choose your route, pack your bags, and embark on a journey to fill your camera roll and your memory. The road is calling, and it is time to go.

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Danielle Hu

Danielle Hu

Danielle Hu is a multiple 6-figure travel influencer, business coach, and Host of The Wanderlover Podcast. She has traveled to over 65+ countries running her online business and surfing in remote tropical destinations. Her mission is to help creatives and coaches achieve time freedom, location freedom, and financial freedom through online entrepreneurship.

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