Why Mid-Year Is the Best Time of Year To Travel On A Budget

If you’ve been dreaming of hitting the road and embracing the freedom of van life, there’s no better time than right now—and GoCheap Campervans is here to help you do it without breaking the bank!

If you’re craving freedom without draining your wallet, GoCheap campervans offer the perfect setup to hit the road. Whether you’re a seasoned nomad or a first-time road tripper, this season offers your best mix of affordability, flexibility, and adventure.

What Is The “Off-Season” In Australia?

Travelling during shoulder or off-seasons—like autumn and early winter—means lower costs, fewer crowds, and more freedom. Campsites are less packed, tourist spots are quieter, and you’ll often find discounted rates on everything from entry fees to food deals in popular towns.

Why Mid-Year Is The Best Time To Travel Australia

Off-Peak = Major Savings

Travelling during shoulder season or just outside of peak tourist times? Jackpot. You’ll score lower rates on:

Campsites and holiday parks
National Park entry fees (in some cases)
Tours, activities, and attractions

GoCheap campervans already offer affordable daily rates, but pair that with off-peak prices everywhere else? You’ll be laughing carefreely up the highway.

Milder Weather, Happier Travels

Forget the sweltering heat or peak-season storms—autumn and spring bring that Goldilocks weather. Not too hot, not too cold, just perfect for:

Hiking coastal trails
Cooking under the stars
Sleeping comfortably without blasting the AC or heater all night

Fewer Crowds, More Zen

If you’ve ever tried to snag a campsite at Byron Bay in December, you know the struggle. But now? You’ll find:

More availability
Quieter rest stops
Easier parking in small towns and tourist hot spots

In short: less hustle, more chill.

Save Money While You Travel

Van life doesn’t just give you the flexibility to go wherever you want—it also puts you in control of your budget. With a GoCheap Campervan, you can cut down on major travel costs while still experiencing the best of what Australia has to offer.

Here’s how you save:

No Need For Hotels

Why pay for a room when your bed is already with you? With your campervan, every beach, mountain, or park can be your hotel—just roll into a powered or unpowered site and you’re set. GoCheap is all about providing a reliable campervan hire in Australia without the premium price tag. You’re still getting:

A fully equipped kitchen (yes, you can actually cook!)
Comfy sleeping arrangements
Storage space for your surfboard, hiking gear, or random op shop treasures

Cook Your Own Meals

Eating out for every meal adds up fast. All GoCheap campervans come equipped with a kitchenette, so you can stock up on groceries and cook on the go. From campfire breakfasts to sunset dinners, it’s easy (and fun) to eat well on a budget.

Go Where The Free Activities Are

Australia is packed with natural wonders that won’t cost you a cent. Think:

National park hikes
Beach days
Waterfalls, lookouts, and local trails
Free community events in regional towns

Your campervan is your ticket to explore all of it, without needing a costly tour group.

Fuel Efficiency

GoCheap vans are designed for fuel efficiency, so you get more mileage out of every dollar at the pump. Combine that with smart route planning and a relaxed travel pace, and you’ll save a surprising amount on fuel.

Unlimited Kilometres = Unlimited Adventure

Unlike some companies that sneak in mileage limits, GoCheap offers unlimited kilometres on campervan rentals. That means you can:

Take spontaneous detours
Explore further-flung destinations
Worry less about racking up extra fees

Pro Tips to Stretch Your Budget Further

Use Free Camping Apps: Apps like WikiCamps or CamperMate show you free/cheap campsites, dump points, and where to refill water or gas.
Plan Around Markets: Stock up on cheap fresh produce at local markets rather than grocery stores.
Pack Smart: Bring the essentials (reusable containers, dry goods like salt/sugar, and First Aid gear) so you’re not rebuying them on the road.
Travel Slow: Fewer kilometres per day = less fuel burned and more time to soak in each new stop.
Fuel Up Smart: Fuel prices can swing wildly between towns. Save big by using apps like PetrolSpy or Fuel Map Australia to find the cheapest servo nearby.
Embrace Free Wi-Fi: Need to catch up on work, stream your fave show, or post that beachy van life shot? Many public libraries, fast food joints, and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Save your data for when you’re truly off-grid.

Suggested Budget-Friendly Routes to Explore Right Now

Looking for road trip inspiration that won’t burn a hole in your pocket? Try these:

The Great Ocean Road (VIC)

One of Australia’s most scenic drives, and with off-peak prices, you can enjoy:

Cheap or free coastal campsites
Fewer tourists at iconic spots like the 12 Apostles
Stunning sunset views that won’t cost a dime

South West WA Loop

Start in Perth and circle through Margaret River, Denmark, Albany, and back. You’ll find:

Affordable wine tastings
Gorgeous forests and beaches
Quirky towns full of charm

East Coast Highlights on a Budget

From Sydney to Brisbane (or the other way around), you can string together a mix of:

Cheap beachside camps
Laid-back surf towns
National parks with cheap entry and epic hikes

FAQs: Van Life on a Budget with GoCheap

Q: Can I really save money by travelling in a campervan?

Absolutely! You’re combining your transport and accommodation, cooking your own meals, and exploring at your own pace. That’s a triple win for your wallet.

Q: What’s included in a GoCheap campervan rental?

All the essentials! Think beds, cooking gear, basic utensils, and even linen. Just bring your clothes, a sense of adventure, and maybe a coffee press.

Q: Is now a good time to book?

It’s the best time. Off-peak rates, pleasant weather, and better availability make it a sweet spot for budget-conscious travellers.

Hit The Road With GoCheap

Whether you’re craving a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, now is the time to travel smarter. With GoCheap Campervans, you’re getting a reliable, comfortable home on wheels—without the luxury price tag.

So pack light, budget smart, and hit the road! Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the campervans we have available at our branches!