So, how much to hire a caravan for a week in Australia?

Often, yes, especially once you include the tow vehicle problem. A campervan or motorhome is one self-drive unit, so you are not paying separately for a suitable 4WD or large SUV, tow insurance and caravan park manoeuvring lessons from a retired bloke called Kev.

No, but it depends on the vehicle and your power use. If you have solar, house batteries and gas cooking, you may manage several nights unpowered, but air-conditioning usually needs 240V power at a holiday park.

A comfortable week is often 700 to 1,500 km total, depending on the route. Australia makes 300 km look close on a map, but add fuel stops, supermarket runs, roadworks and checking into camp before dark and the day disappears.

Some hires include unlimited kilometres, while others have daily limits or charge for extra kilometres. Always check before booking, especially for big routes like Adelaide to Darwin, Perth to Exmouth or Brisbane to Cairns.

Shoulder seasons are usually kinder: outside school holidays, Christmas, Easter and major events. In the Top End and north-west, the wet season can be cheaper, but road closures, heat and rental road restrictions can limit where you can legally go.

Book or at least check both together if travelling in peak periods. National park sites, beach towns and popular holiday parks can fill early, and a cheap van is not much use if every legal campsite within 80 km is full.