navigate the automobile market: Should you buy, avoid or choose wisely?
Hi there, Aussie Traveler! You've already ticked off a bunch of essential tasks for your Work & Holiday adventure Down Under, like getting a phone number, applying for a TFN, and opening an Aussie bank account. Well done, mate! Now, let's mull over the sweet choices you have for traveling around this sunburnt country. Today, I'll break down the pros and cons of taking a Greyhound or Premier bus, cruising in a campervan, or hitting the beaten path in a 4WD.
First up, the easy one - hitching a ride on the Greyhound or Premier bus. Perhaps you're only planning a quick stint in Australia or simply want to get a feel for the country and its people before committing to a vehicle. That's cool; bus travel offers a relaxed way to hop from place to place without the fuss of car maintenance.
You can either purchase a ticket for a set duration or grab individual tickets for each trip, depending on your plans. If you're planning on exploring a significant part of the east coast, a ticket for a set duration is the way to go. It may seem like a hefty chunk at first, but trust me; it's worth it if you make plenty of stops and compare it to individual tickets.
The Greyhound, with the largest route network in Australia, services over 180 different locations in almost every state. Go ahead and check out their network map here.*(Image source: https://www.greyhound.com.au/company/network-map#network-map).
One of the biggest perks of bus travel is the lack of worry - no car troubles or unexpected costs. You're free to focus on choosing your destinations, which is a breeze to do online.
However, there's a drawback - you're entirely dependent on the bus, meaning you can only reach the places Greyhound travels to. This may suit you fine, or it might not, depending on your travel ambitions. I, for one, value independence to reach the remote parts of the country.
Next up, the classic road trip - adventure in a campervan! Many Work & Holiday travelers opt for a van and live their Aussie dreams on the open road. I did it myself on my first trip to Australia in 2020 - me and my girl, determined to see as much of the country as possible and be as independent as possible.
A van is an excellent choice if you're after the simple camping life. It takes some getting used to, but if you enjoy the outdoors, it's a dream come true. You can technically stop and sleep wherever, have heaps of room for all your gear, and make it your own with some planning.
One thing to consider: most vans aren't four-wheel drive, so you won't be able to go everywhere. But this isn't necessarily a bad thing if you plan to stick to the roads.
You can find reliable vans on popular websites like Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and Carsales. Aussies love their Toyotas, and the Hiace is the most popular van in Australia for a reason - durability and ease of finding spare parts.
When buying, it's crucial to keep an eye out for the following factors: kilometer count (though kilometers don't decide everything, as long distances in Australia are easy on the engine), a diesel engine (for better fuel efficiency and durability), regular services, and significant rust.
It's wise to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic before purchasing, who'll provide a detailed report. I did this for both car purchases in Australia, and it always came in handy.
Lastly, for those longing for off-road adventures, a 4WD might be the ticket. If you yearn for the freedom to traverse the rugged terrains and remote areas that buses and vans can't reach, then a 4WD is right up your alley.
The advantages are self-explanatory: off-road capability and the chance to explore Australia's wild side. Just be aware that a 4WD vehicle will cost more to maintain and rent than a van, and wild camping, which can be expensive in Australia, is near impossible with a roof tent.
When purchasing a 4WD, pay special attention to the underside for rust and test the four-wheel drive function to ensure the engine and transmission are in good working order. A little off-road adventure awaits you, mate - grab your swag and let's hit the Aussie backroads!
Yours,Jesko
1. If you're considering electric vehicles for travel around Australia, there's a growing number of charging stations being installed nationwide, making it an interesting alternative to traditional cars for those keen on a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.
2. For those looking to upgrade their vehicle to a luxury model for their Aussie adventure, having a reliable car can significantly enhance your travel experience. Regular car-maintenance is essential in this case to ensure smooth journeys and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
3. As you explore the diverse lifestyle options Australia offers, consider incorporating a broader mode of transportation into your plans. Renting an electric minibus or a fleet of electric cars could be an exciting way to travel in groups and embrace an eco-conscious approach to your Work & Holiday adventure Down Under.
