Australia is the smallest continent and the biggest island in the world. In size, it is about as big as the 48 contiguous U.S.. With 20.4 million people in population, generally focused in the eastern and south-eastern coastal urban areas. This means that there are great open areas to explore in the rest of the country, and this can often be accomplished by car. Stunning coastlines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wildlife are there for the traveler to see.
A visitor with an international driving licence or a validated American or European driving license in English can easily organize for a car rental at the airport or hotel. There are lots of car hire companies offering many types of vehicles, from assorted makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. No matter what your needs and preferences are, there will always be a vehicle to suit you. Just to exemplify, those who want to camp can find camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come ready with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Some even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini-kitchen. If you are travelling in more rough terrain, there are four-wheel-drives. If budget is sensitive, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to travel in style.
Driving in Australia can be different from other countries: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. Anticipate the car hire company to supply detailed information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), what to do in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation in advance will assure a successful and pleasant car vacation in Australia.
