10.14.09
Explore Australia by Car
The smallest continent and largest island in the world is Australia. It is almost as big as the 48 adjacent United States. There are about 20.4 million people and they are generally focused in th eastern and southeastern coastal urban regions. This means that there are big open spaces to explore in the rest of the country, and this can be best done by car. Beautiful coastlines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with native plants and wildlife are there for the traveler to discover.
You can easily organize for a car rental at the airport or hotel with an international drivers licence or a validated American or European drivers licence. There are heaps of car hire companies providing different types of vehicles, from different makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is a vehicle to accommodate any need or requirement. For instance, camping enthusiasts can get campervans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come fitted with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Some even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini-kitchen. There are four-wheel-drives that would be suitable for more rough terrain. If budget is sensitive, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to enjoy some luxury.
One should be knowledgeable with the basics of driving conditions in Australia: 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. The car rental company will usually provide you with 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.
