Australia is the smallest continent and the biggest island in the world. It is almost as big as the 48 adjoining U.S.. With 20.4 million people in population, largely saturated in the eastern and south eastern coastal urban areas. This means that there are great open spaces to explore in the remainder of the country, and this can often be accomplished by car. Lovely coastlines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with native plants and wild life are there for the traveller to experience.
A visitor with an international driving license or a validated American or European driving licence in English can easily arrange for a car rental at the airport or hotel. There are lots of car hire companies providing many types of vehicles, from assorted makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is always a vehicle type to suit any need or preference. For instance, camping enthusiasts can find camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come ready with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Some even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini-kitchen. There are four-wheel-drives that would be suitable for more rugged terrain. If you are travelling on a budget, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to enjoy some luxury.
Driving in Australia can be different from other countries: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. The car rental company will usually provide you with thorough information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), what to do in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation ahead will insure a successful and pleasant car vacation in Australia.
