How to Buy a Camper Van in Australia

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Camper vans allow Australian residents and visitors to travel freely and explore the cities and the outback. The country is friendly towards campers and it is possible to find a campsite in most areas. The only exception is in the heavily traffic portions of large cities. The most common venue for purchasing a camper van is from a van rental company. The used vans can be purchased then sold when the trip has ended. Select a style of van from the numerous ones available that fits your traveling purpose.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Locate several camper vans through classifieds and camper van rental companies. Use a single region and arrange viewings in advance. Determine the amount of time you have to look and make reservations for accommodations. Look at as many different sizes and styles as possible before making a purchase.

Step 2

Purchase a van that fits your budget. Making a purchase larger than your budget will limit your travel.

Step 3

Purchase a vehicle sized for your needs. Multiple travelers will want a larger vehicle with bed space for everyone. The vehicle must also be sized to access the areas you will travel. Smaller camper vans can access narrow back roads and larger vans are limited to highways and paved roads.

Step 4

Purchase a van with four-wheel drive and high clearance for off road travel. Attempting to take low-clearance vans on outback roads is dangerous and you may become stranded. The low-clearance Toyota Hiace vans are common in Australia, and Land Cruisers with pop-top conversions and camper interiors also have off-road capabilities.

Step 5

Purchase a van with a stove, sink, water holding tank and storage. Toilets and showers are found in the larger vans, but the standard vans will require a portable toilet. Water pumps allow vans to have a running water source, and hand pumps are standard in many camper vans.

Tips & Warnings

Look for camper vans in the larger city areas. Make arrangements to view several vans and reserve a hotel for several days to allow time for the registration process. Also know your budget in advance and be prepared to pay the asking price because you have a limited time frame.

Do not drive your camper van without carrying proof of insurance. Driving without proper papers to prove you own the vehicle and have insurance can result in a ticket. Also carry extra gas cans for outback travel because services are limited.

Article Written By Zach Lazzari

Zach Lazzari is an outdoor writing specialist. He has experience in website writing as well as standard newspaper writing. He wrote an outdoor column for the Silver World in Lake City, Colo., and articles for Colorado-mountain-adventure.com. Lazzari is currently completing his bachelor's degree online through Arizona State University and lives in southwest Montana.

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