The big lap around Australia campervan itinerary for self-drive van sleepers

The drive, broken down

1. Days 1-21: Sydney or Brisbane to Melbourne and Adelaide2,200 km · 28-32 hrs

   Ease in with coastal towns, supermarket restocks and powered sites while you learn the van.

2. Days 22-42: Adelaide to Perth via the Nullarbor2,700 km · 32-36 hrs

   Long straight roads, roadhouse fuel, whale-season detours and big-sky camps; do not skip fuel stops.

3. Days 43-70: Perth to Exmouth, Karijini and Broome2,400 km · 30-35 hrs

   A coast-and-gorge leg where campsite bookings matter and some park roads may be hire-condition sensitive.

4. Days 71-91: Broome to Katherine and Darwin1,900 km · 22-26 hrs

   Keep it sealed unless approved; the Kimberley looks close on the map and very large from the driver's seat.

5. Days 92-119: Darwin to Cairns via the Barkly and Gulf edge2,800 km · 34-40 hrs

   Top End waterfalls, long inland hauls and serious heat; plan water, fuel and shaded stops.

6. Days 120-150: Cairns to Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne2,600 km · 32-38 hrs

   Re-entry to traffic, beach towns and booked holiday parks; slow down before the last week bites.