Tampa Bay 18. That’s what Jervis Bay is. But if this road trip is a one-off or you don’t want the hassle and commitment of buying a car, renting is also an option. The reverse is true if you’re journeying in the spring.If you’re road tripping in winter, brace yourself for cold temperatures in Victoria, New South Wales and South Queensland but look forward to near perfect weather in Central and North Queensland.In the summer, you’ll be sweltering everywhere – but watch out for tropical storms and seriously hot temperatures in the North, and make sure you wear stinger suits everywhere that they’re recommended.Nowhere quite does hostels like the East Coast of Australia – and I’m pretty sure that no hostels are is That’s why I’ve recommended selected hostels in some of the tourist hotspots, that I’ve either stayed at personally or that have come highly recommended by fellow travellers. Many backpackers choose to stay, work and live in Manly over Sydney ‘proper’, and there’s plenty of draws to this part of the city.If you don’t fancy staying in Sydney proper, check out Manly Bunkhouse, which boasts en suite dorms and rooms, communal areas, central location and outdoor spaces. This means staying at least one night in Rainbow Beach – and it’s a good idea to book for the day after too, so you’re not rushing after your tour and have some time for drinks with your group!Dingos is one of the only hostels in Rainbow Beach, but it’s ran so well that there’s really no need for any competition. I actually lived in Byron Bay, in a tent, for five beautiful months and I would go back in a heartbeat.There’s lots of reasons why so many people fall in love with beautiful Byron Bay, and it will no doubt be a highlight on your Brisbane to Sydney drive. Its got a name as a bit of a hippie hangout, and it definitely attracts the free spirited and artistic – but really, there’s something for everyone at the Arts Factory.Enjoy didgeridoo lessons, yoga classes, bush walks, the weekly talent show and more at the Arts Factory, while staying in one of their dorms, private rooms or even on the attached campsite which is affectionately known as ‘The Jungle’. Washington DC 10. There are lots of free camping spots within these forests, each which contains walking trails and makes for a great leg stretch en route south. They span over 11,400 km2 and encompasses hills, waterfalls, lookouts and spectacular panoramic vistas.Tell anyone you’re planning on a trip to Canberra on your east coast Australia road trip and their response will be ‘why’? The town is catered for tourists, but if you’re looking for somewhere for a cheap dinner, a couple (dozen, maybe) beers and to meet some new travel mates, Airlie is your go to.Most people who are at Airlie Beach are coming off a Nomads pretty much dominates the backpacker accommodation in Airlie Beach, and it’s easy to see why. The treehouse-style hostel is set in beautiful grounds with a spectacular view, and just being there basically screams zen. But, be careful! If it’s hot on your visit, it’s a great place to have a beach day – or there are hiking trails and swimming spots to enjoy. Daytona Beach 17. In 1996, I spent 13 months driving up the west coast from Perth to Darwin, down to Alice Springs (and back!) Go back to see more maps of Australia Australia maps.
Hartford 5. It’s loved by backpackers and locals alike, because of its beautiful surroundings and bustling atmosphere.Nomads Noosa is located right in the heart of town, making all of Noosa’s main attractions easily accessible. Gettysburg 9. Three hours south of Sydney, it’s a spectacular beach with white-as-it-gets sand and the bluest of blue waters. The Whitsunday Islands are one of the ‘must see’ Australian odysseys that make the east coast famous. Indeed, hundreds of tourists are dumped every day by large multi-storey boats on this small piece of the island, it is a helicopter that rotates constantly above the islet to impress wealthy tourists, it is a Resort that stands proudly in the middle of the island and it is also a crocodile park that they have moved to make money with tourists. Either stay another night in Cairns, or begin your journey south to Innisfail and Mission BeachKnown by many to be ‘the place where everyone does farm work’, many road trippers whizz past Innisfail.