Australia’s Top Family Holiday Routes for Summer

Summer is the best time for families to take road trips and make amazing memories. Exploring new places, laughing together, and finding cool spots along Australia’s coastlines and countryside is truly magical. Family road trips are not just fun, but they’re also a smart way to travel without spending too much. With car-sharing services like Popcar, you can skip the trouble and cost of owning or renting a car. This guide will show you the best family holiday routes in Australia and explain how Popcar can make your trip easier and more fun.

Why Car Share is a Must for Family Road Trips

Car sharing has become an increasingly popular option for family road trips, offering numerous benefits that make it an attractive alternative to traditional car ownership or rental. Here’s why car sharing is a must for family travel:

Cost-Effective Transportation

One of the most significant advantages of car sharing for family road trips is the potential for substantial cost savings. When you opt for car sharing:

• You avoid the high costs associated with car ownership, including monthly payments, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
• You only pay for the time you actually use the vehicle, which can be significantly less expensive than owning a car that sits idle most of the time.
• Many car-sharing services offer competitive pricing plans tailored to different usage patterns, allowing families to choose the most economical option for their needs.

Flexibility and Convenience

Car sharing provides unparalleled flexibility for family travel:

• You can choose from a variety of vehicles to suit your specific trip requirements, whether it’s a spacious SUV for a long journey or a compact car for a quick weekend getaway.
• Booking is typically straightforward and can be done through user-friendly apps or websites, allowing for last-minute plans or changes.
• Many car-sharing services offer 24/7 support, ensuring assistance is available whenever you need it.

Environmental Benefits

Choosing car sharing for your family road trips can have positive environmental impacts:

• Car sharing reduces the number of vehicles on the road, which helps decrease traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions.
• Many car-sharing fleets include hybrid or electric vehicles, offering a more eco-friendly travel option.
• By promoting shared resource use, car sharing contributes to a more sustainable approach to transportation.

Enhanced Travel Experience

Car sharing can actually improve your family’s travel experience:

• Without the worries of car ownership, you can focus on enjoying your trip and creating memories with your family.
• The ability to choose different types of vehicles for different trips adds an element of excitement and novelty to your travels.
• Some car-sharing services maintain their vehicles to a high standard, ensuring you have a clean, well-maintained car for your journey.

Community and Lifestyle Benefits

Opting for car sharing can have broader positive impacts:

• It promotes a more active lifestyle, as families might be more inclined to walk or cycle for shorter trips when they don’t have constant access to a car.
• Car sharing can help build a sense of community, as it’s a shared resource that benefits multiple users.

Practical Considerations

When using car sharing for family road trips, keep in mind:

• Always check the vehicle thoroughly before your trip and report any issues immediately.
• Be aware of the service’s policies regarding fuel, cleanliness, and return times to avoid additional fees.
• Consider inviting family members to join your car-sharing plan for added convenience and potential cost savings.

Car sharing offers a flexible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option for family road trips. It provides the benefits of car access without the burdens of ownership, allowing families to enjoy their travels with less stress and more freedom. As the car-sharing industry continues to evolve, it’s likely to become an even more attractive option for family travellers in the future.

Australia’s Top Family-Friendly Holiday Routes

Take the kids on an amazing adventure with our list of fun and family-friendly routes. Each one offers beautiful scenery, activities for everyone, and a mix of fun and relaxation.

Sydney to the Blue Mountains

Start your trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains. This area has Featherdale Wildlife Park, where you can see native animals up close, and Scenic World, which has rides and walkways with great views. The easy trails and picnic spots are perfect for families to enjoy nature.

Melbourne to Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a must-see. Begin in Melbourne and soon you’ll see the stunning Twelve Apostles and green forests near Lorne and Apollo Bay. This route has amazing coastal views and you might even spot koalas. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sights with your little adventurers.

Canberra to Batemans Bay

Try the charming route from Canberra to Batemans Bay. Visit Mogo Wildlife Park for an afternoon of fun and learning. Beach playgrounds are perfect for a relaxing stop, where adults can enjoy the sun while kids build sandcastles and play games.

Brisbane to Sunshine Coast Hinterland

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is full of greenery and cool places like the Glass House Mountains and Kondalilla Falls. Don’t miss Australia Zoo—a family favourite with lots of fun and learning about wildlife. Whether you’re up for a short forest walk or meeting kangaroos, this area has it all.

Byron Bay to Gold Coast

This classic route combines beach fun with unique attractions. Walk along Byron Bay beaches or shop in the cute stores before exploring coastal parks. A visit to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will amaze kids and adults with interactive experiences and lots of animals.

Tips for a Smooth Family Road Trip

Here are some tips for a smooth family road trip:

Pre-Trip Planning

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful family road trip. Start by creating a comprehensive packing checklist. Include essentials such as snacks, water bottles, a first aid kit, hand sanitiser, and wet wipes. Don’t forget entertainment items like books, tablets, portable games, and colouring books to keep the kids occupied. 

Comfort items such as pillows, blankets, and favourite stuffed animals for younger children can make the journey more pleasant. When it comes to clothing, pack versatile outfits and layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.

Planning your route in advance is equally important. Research potential stops for breaks, meals, and attractions along the way. Look for family-friendly rest areas with playgrounds or scenic viewpoints where everyone can stretch their legs and burn off some energy. Consider the attention span and needs of your youngest travellers when planning driving segments to avoid overtiring them.

On-the-Road Strategies

Once you’re on your way, maintaining a flexible schedule is key. Start early in the day when children are typically more cooperative. Plan for frequent breaks, ideally every 2-3 hours, to allow for stretching and energy release. Be prepared to adjust your plans if needed, prioritising family comfort over strict adherence to a schedule.

Keeping everyone entertained during the journey is crucial. Organise fun car games like “I Spy” or licence plate bingo to pass the time. Create a road trip playlist with everyone’s favourite songs to sing along to. Audiobooks can be a great way to pass the time and keep all ages engaged in a story.

Managing meals and snacks effectively can make a big difference. Pack a cooler with healthy snacks and drinks to avoid relying solely on fast food. Consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot along your route. Keep mess to a minimum by using spill-proof containers and having cleaning supplies handy.

Vehicle Considerations

Choosing the right vehicle can significantly impact your road trip experience. Opt for comfort and space by selecting a vehicle with ample legroom and storage space for luggage and gear. Consider features like individual climate controls or entertainment systems for added comfort.

Ensuring reliability is crucial. If using your own vehicle, have it serviced before the trip. For car-sharing options, choose a service that maintains their fleet regularly to minimise the risk of breakdowns.

Utilise navigation tools to make your journey smoother. Use a reliable GPS system or smartphone app for navigation. Consider downloading offline maps in case of poor cellular coverage in rural areas.

Safety First

Prioritising safety throughout your journey is paramount. Prepare for emergencies by carrying a well-stocked emergency kit including jumper cables, flashlight, and basic tools. Ensure your roadside assistance membership is up to date and keep important documents like insurance information easily accessible.

Practise safe driving by taking turns behind the wheel if possible to avoid fatigue. Adhere to speed limits and traffic laws, and use appropriate child safety seats. Ensure all passengers buckle up for every trip, no matter how short.

Embrace the Journey

Remember that the journey itself is part of the adventure. Encourage children to document the trip through photos or a travel journal. Be open to unexpected discoveries along the way, and focus on creating lasting family memories rather than rushing to your destination.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a smoother, more enjoyable family road trip experience. Remember, flexibility and a positive attitude are key to turning potential challenges into opportunities for family bonding and fun. With proper planning and a spirit of adventure, your family road trip can become a cherished memory for years to come.

Where Will Your Family Adventure Take You?

Family holidays are priceless, filled with laughter, exploration, and shared experiences that bring everyone closer together. By choosing Popcar for your next road trip, you’re opting for convenience, flexibility, and affordability that traditional car rental or ownership just can’t match. 

Why wait? Take advantage of Popcar’s tailored subscription plans that provide ultimate freedom for summertime adventures. If you’re ready to take the plunge into a world of new destinations, explore Popcar’s options and book a car today. Your family road trip could just be the best part of your summer.