Have you ever dreamed of packing up your life, hitting the open road, and exploring the best that Australia has to offer?
For many Australians, the idea of a ‘Big Lap’ around the country is the ultimate adventure. But while the freedom of caravan life is appealing, the costs can quickly add up, leaving some wondering if it’s really as affordable as it appears on social media.
One family, however, has cracked the code to saving big while living their dream. Kate Mason, her husband, their two young daughters, and their loyal dog are currently travelling around Australia in their caravan. After some trial and error (and a few budget blowouts), they’ve managed to cut their monthly expenses by a whopping $1,600—without missing out on the magic of the journey.
So, how did they do it? And what can the rest of us learn from their experience? Let’s dive in.
When Kate and her family first set off, they were spending around $6,000 a month—much more than they’d anticipated. Like many new caravanners, they found themselves staying in caravan parks week after week, racking up accommodation bills of $350 per week (that’s $1,400 a month just for a place to park).
Add in fuel, food, unexpected repairs, and the occasional splurge on tourist attractions, and the costs quickly spiralled. ‘Our budget was $1,200 per week, but it’s proven to be very difficult to stick to this number as things always tend to pop up,’ Kate admits.
And it’s not just the basics. For families with special needs, like Kate’s daughter who requires therapy, costs can skyrocket—especially in remote areas where services are limited and prices are higher. ‘In Alice Springs, therapy is $314 per session, and we want to do a two-week intensive. The more remote we go, the more expensive therapy is!’ she says.
After a few months on the road, Kate realised something had to change. The family’s breakthrough came when they decided to slow down and embrace off-grid living. By spending a whole month in South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula, staying at each campsite for 5-7 days and seeking out free or low-cost campgrounds, they slashed their accommodation bill to just $495 for the month.
They also cut their fuel costs nearly in half by reducing long drives and staying put for longer stretches. ‘We spent the whole month on the Yorke Peninsula, which meant we didn’t drive long distances,’ Kate explains.
The result? Their monthly spend dropped to $4,343—saving them over $1,600 compared to previous months.
Kate and her family have learnt a lot on their journey, and they’re eager to share their best tips with fellow travellers to help make caravan living more affordable.
She suggests going off-grid as soon as possible, since it typically cuts down on costs significantly compared to staying in caravan parks, which can be quite pricey.
Moving at a slower pace is another helpful strategy—not only does it save on fuel and other expenses, but it also allows you to fully appreciate each destination.
To stretch the family food budget, Kate recommends going fishing, as seafood can be expensive, and planning meals carefully by writing a grocery list with exact quantities to avoid waste.
Tracking your weekly spending through a budgeting app can also keep your finances in check.
While shopping, be on the lookout for bargains, and consider making meals in bulk using a slow cooker, which can provide multiple servings and even extra portions to freeze.
For coffee lovers, she notes that investing in a coffee machine can save a surprising amount over time compared to daily café visits.
Even with the best planning, unexpected expenses can crop up. Repairs, medical needs, and the higher cost of groceries and fuel in remote areas can all take a bite out of your budget. Kate’s advice? Build a buffer into your budget for those ‘just in case’ moments, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plans if costs start to creep up.
Is caravan life really cheaper? The answer is: it can be! But, as Kate says, ‘You don’t need to have the flashest, most expensive set-up with all the bells and whistles—you can do this lifestyle in a lot of different ways. Anything is possible if you can stick within your means.’
Whether you’re a retiree looking for adventure, a family seeking quality time, or a solo traveller chasing the sun, the key is to travel smart, stay flexible, and focus on what matters most.
Caravanning around Australia isn’t just for the young or the wealthy—it’s a lifestyle that’s open to anyone willing to plan, budget, and embrace a bit of adventure. With a few clever tricks and a willingness to learn as you go, you can make your dream trip a reality without breaking the bank.
Have you done a lap of Australia, or are you planning one? What are your best money-saving tips for life on the road? Share your stories and advice in the comments below.
Also read: Council’s new camping crackdown sparks outrage among landowners
