Safety Tips for Your First Road Trip in Australia
Safety Tips for Your First Road Trip in Australia
By YesDrive Car Hire — Sydney & Hobart
Australia is made for road trips. Whether you’re cruising the coastlines of New South Wales, exploring the winding roads of Tasmania, or heading inland to uncover hidden gems, there’s something incredibly freeing about hitting the open road. If you’re planning your first Australian road trip—whether you’re a tourist or a local renting a car for a weekend escape—safety should always come first.
At YesDrive, with convenient locations in Sydney and Hobart, we’re all about helping you explore safely, comfortably, and with confidence. Let’s dive into some must-know safety tips to make your journey smooth and memorable.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Know Before You Drive
Understand Local Driving Rules
In Australia, we drive on the left-hand side of the road, and the driver sits on the right-hand side of the car. It can feel unusual if you’re visiting from overseas, so take some time to adjust—especially when turning or entering roundabouts.
Here are a few key rules to remember:
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Speed limits are strictly enforced—watch for signage and adjust for conditions.
Mobile phones can only be used hands-free.
Zero tolerance for drink driving—the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, but it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether if you’re behind the wheel.
Check Your Licence and Requirements
Visitors to Australia can drive with a foreign licence if it’s in English (or accompanied by an official translation or an international driving permit). Locals, of course, need a valid Australian driver’s licence. Always carry your licence while driving.
Plan Your Route and Drive Times Wisely
Avoid Fatigue and Night Driving
Australia is a vast country, and distances can be deceiving. What looks like a short drive may take several hours, especially if you’re heading from Sydney to the Blue Mountains or navigating Tasmania’s scenic but winding coastal roads from Hobart to Freycinet.
Some smart driving tips:
Take regular breaks—every 2 hours is a good rule.
Avoid driving at night, especially in regional areas where wildlife like kangaroos are more active and harder to see.
Don’t rely solely on Google Maps. Signal can drop out in remote areas, so consider downloading maps for offline use or grabbing a physical map just in case.
Know Your Fuel Stops
Fuel stations in rural Australia can be few and far between. If you’re venturing off the beaten track—like exploring Tasmania’s rugged southwest or the backroads of NSW—fill up when you can. Don’t wait until the tank is nearly empty.
Pack Smart for the Conditions
Be Ready for All Weather
Australia’s weather can change quickly, especially in places like Tasmania. A sunny day in Hobart might turn chilly by late afternoon. Likewise, road trips around Sydney can involve beach stops, bush walks, or city traffic—all in a day’s drive.
Here’s a quick packing list:
Water, snacks, and sunscreen
Chargers and power banks
First-aid kit and flashlight
Warm layers and rain jackets
Phone mount and AUX/Bluetooth cable for navigation and music
Stay Safe with the Right Vehicle
The type of vehicle you rent can make all the difference. At YesDrive, we offer a range of reliable, well-maintained vehicles perfect for Australian road trips—from compact cars for city breaks to spacious SUVs for long hauls with friends or family.
Ask our team for advice based on your route. For example:
A small hatchback is ideal for tight city parking in Sydney.
A mid-size SUV is perfect for exploring Tasmania’s national parks.
Be Wildlife and Road-Aware
Watch for Animals on the Road
Australia’s beautiful wildlife is one of its biggest drawcards—but it can also pose risks while driving. Kangaroos, wombats, and wallabies often cross roads unexpectedly, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Tips to stay safe:
Slow down in wildlife zones (marked by signs).
Use high beams at night in rural areas when there’s no oncoming traffic.
If you spot an animal on the road, brake firmly but don’t swerve, which could cause you to lose control.
Mind the Road Conditions
While most major roads around Sydney and Hobart are sealed and well-maintained, some scenic or regional routes may be unpaved or narrow. After rain, these can become slippery or muddy.
Drive to the conditions:
Reduce speed on gravel roads.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
If you’re unsure about a route’s condition, check local travel alerts or ask the YesDrive team before you go.
How YesDrive Helps You Hit the Road with Confidence
At YesDrive, we go beyond just handing you the keys. We’re passionate about helping travellers—locals and tourists alike—explore safely and comfortably.
Here’s how we make your road trip easier:
Flexible pick-up and drop-off in Sydney and Hobart.
A wide range of modern, fuel-efficient cars.
Friendly local staff who can offer travel tips and road advice.
Optional GPS, child seats, and insurance for peace of mind.
24/7 roadside assistance so you’re never stuck, even in remote areas.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Australia is full of incredible road trip destinations—hidden beaches, charming small towns, mountain escapes, and unforgettable national parks. Whether you’re taking a spontaneous weekend getaway from Sydney or planning a multi-day loop from Hobart, safety is the key to enjoying it all.
Let YesDrive be part of your adventure.
Book your rental car today through our Sydney or Hobart locations and get ready to explore Australia your way—with confidence, comfort, and a car you can trust.
