Money breakdown and budget advice

Okay, let's dive into the financial side of things. Every traveller will have different priorities when it comes to spending, so your budget will ultimately depend on your personal preferences. Some folks love splurging on tours, others prefer home-cooked meals over takeout, and some set-aside funds for weekly indulgences like alcohol. Here’s a breakdown of my personal expenses and savings for a lap around Australia.

1. Vehicle Costs:

First up, you’ll need a vehicle. Whether it’s a van, motorhome, or 4WD, your choice will depend on your travel plans. I opted for a van, which cost me $19,500. Mine was a 2010 diesel Toyota Hiace with an automatic transmission and 240,000 km on the clock. This was a pretty average price for its condition in Australia. While buying a vehicle is a solid investment, especially for long-term travel, you can also consider renting one if it suits your needs better.

2. Renovations:

Next, consider the cost of fitting out your vehicle. The amount will vary based on the features you want and whether you do the work yourself or hire professionals. I chose to have my van converted by a company, which cost me $12,000. (Note: I won’t name the company, as I wasn’t thrilled with their services. If you go this route, do your research thoroughly.) So, my total van cost was $31,500.

3. Living Expenses:

After getting your van ready, you'll need funds for living expenses. Your budget will vary based on your travel style, whether you have a passive income, plan to work on the road, or intend to save up along the way. For my 12-month lap (which extended to 14 months), I budgeted $500 per week. This covered groceries, fuel, tours, mechanical issues, bills, and everything in between. I worked out that I needed to save up $26,000, which is $500 per week for a year. I then worked really hard in the traffic control industry. Please note that it may sound like I'm skimming through this saving experience but it did take me 3 years to have all the money for the van. It's totally been worth it though for the travel experience. Additionally, I spent $2,000 on essential equipment like kitchenware, camping gear, and a mattress.

4. Final Expenses:

Upon completing my lap, I calculated that I spent $29,000 over 14 months, averaging $483.33 per week. So sticking to a $500 budget each week turned out to be pretty reasonable and achievable.

5. Total Cost:

So, how much did it all cost? The total, including the van, renovations, equipment, and travel expenses, was just over $63,000. It might seem daunting, but don’t let the number scare you. It’s a significant investment, but one that can lead to incredible experiences.

Please remember that your expenses will vary based on your choices and travel style. Whether you’re saving up, working on the road, or simply budgeting carefully, planning ahead will help you manage costs and enjoy your adventure.

Tips to save money and stick to a budget on the road

1. Shop Wisely: Australia has three main grocery chains: Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi. Aldi is your budget friend, it's way cheaper. Do your fruit and veggie shopping at local markets or specialty stores to save even more. It might be a bit more effort to visit multiple places, but those savings of $20 to $50 each week really add up. And try to stock up in larger towns to avoid paying IGA prices; I’ve got beef with those high costs!

2. Plan Your Route and Fuel Stops: Use apps like GasBuddy to hunt down the cheapest fuel along your route. Plan your driving days and fuel stops carefully to avoid unnecessary detours and those dreaded high fuel prices. Trust me, every cent counts!

3. Cook Your Own Meals: This one’s a no-brainer for budget travel. Eating out and grabbing takeout can quickly drain your funds. Cook your own meals and only indulge in takeout when you’re really craving it. Plan your meals and avoid wasting food; it’s a game changer for keeping your budget in check.

4. Use Free or Low-Cost Campsites: Apps like WikiCamps and Park4Night are gold mines for finding free or affordable campsites. These apps offer user reviews and detailed info on amenities, so you can plan ahead and save a few bucks.

5. Embrace Stealth Camping: Find those low-profile spots to park overnight and blend in. Skipping expensive campgrounds can seriously help your budget. Just make sure you’re respecting local regulations and practising good stealth camping etiquette.

6. Limit Unplanned Purchases: Impulse buys are budget killers. Stick to a shopping list and avoid splurging on stuff you don’t need. If you’re eyeing something special, wait a week or two. You’ll often realise you didn’t need it after all.

7. DIY Repairs and Maintenance: Learn the basics of vehicle maintenance and minor repairs. It’ll save you from costly mechanic fees and keep your van running smoothly. I’ll admit, I didn't really do this myself, but it’s definitely worth it to avoid getting ripped off.

8. Plan and Budget for Activities: Decide which activities and attractions you really want to do and budget accordingly. Look for free or low-cost events and experiences. Sometimes a little research can uncover cheaper alternatives to those pricey tours.

9. Buy in Bulk: Stock up on staples like pasta, rice, and canned goods when you get the chance. Buying in bulk saves money and means fewer trips to the store. Plus, having a stash of non-perishables is a lifesaver when you’re on the road.

10. Avoid Tourist Traps: Tourist hotspots often come with inflated prices for food, souvenirs, and activities. Instead, ask locals for their favourite spots. You’ll find better deals and experience a more authentic side of the places you visit.

11. Track and Review Expenses Regularly: Keep an eye on your spending by tracking daily expenses. Regularly reviewing your budget helps you stay on track and spot areas where you might be able to cut back.

12. Prioritize Free Activities: Many places offer free attractions, parks, and museums. Embrace these opportunities to enjoy local culture and nature without breaking the bank. Sometimes the best experiences are the ones that don’t cost a thing.