Ultimate Guide to Traveling Australia with Kids
Who says life has to slow down once you’ve had kids? Not us! Just because you’ve added a few more adventurers to the family doesn’t mean you have to hang up your traveling boots. In fact, hitting the open road with the kids in tow is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. We've been living proof that full-time travel with kids is not just possible—it’s epic! Here’s our ultimate guide to help you explore Australia with the whole family and keep the adventure going strong.
1. Plan Your Route, But Stay Flexible: Adventure Awaits!
Australia is huge, and the possibilities for family-friendly adventures are endless. Don’t let having kids limit your destinations. In fact, traveling with little ones often opens up new ways to see the country through their eyes.
Top Tips:
- Kid-friendly, but still exciting: Pick spots that work for everyone. Beaches, rainforests, and national parks are perfect for balancing adventure with family downtime.
- Go with the flow: Don’t feel like you have to plan every second. Kids are resilient, and they’ll surprise you with how adaptable they can be to the traveling lifestyle. Sometimes the best memories come from those spontaneous detours.
- Keep the driving days manageable: Long drives don’t have to be painful. Break them up with cool stops along the way so the kids can burn off energy while you get to soak up more of Australia.
2. Packing Essentials: Streamlined & Kid-Proof
Packing for a family doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, the less stuff, the better. Focus on the essentials, and remember—kids don’t need heaps of toys to be entertained when there’s an entire country of natural wonders to explore.
Must-Have Items:
- Camping gear for the whole fam: Whether it’s a family tent or your trusty camper, make sure everyone has a comfy place to sleep.
- Keep snacks handy: Food on the go is your secret weapon against meltdowns. Fresh fruit, nuts, and easy-to-eat snacks will keep everyone happy between stops.
- Don’t forget the layers: Australia’s climate can throw anything at you, so pack layers for every kind of weather. And always bring plenty of hats, sunscreen, and swimmers.
- Travel-friendly entertainment: A couple of toys or books for the kids will come in handy for quiet moments, but you’ll find that the real fun is outdoors.
3. Safety First: Keeping Everyone Safe & Happy
Traveling with kids doesn’t mean you have to stick to the tourist paths. You can still be adventurous—just make sure you’re prepared.
Safety Tips:
- First aid on hand: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential. Keep child-safe medications, sunscreen, and insect repellent with you.
- Stay hydrated: Australia can be unforgiving, especially in the outback. Carry extra water and a water filter if you’re going remote.
- Health check: Have any required medications packed and stock up on Panadol, Nurofen and Zyrtec.
- Gear up for safety: Life jackets, helmets, and floaties are must-haves for all your adventures.
4. Keeping the Kids Entertained on the Road
You don’t need to stop the fun just because you’ve got little ones in the backseat. Australia’s natural playground is more than enough to keep them entertained.
On the Road:
- Audiobooks & stories: Family-friendly podcasts or audiobooks will keep the kids entertained during long stretches of driving.
- Simple games: Classic games like “I-Spy” or a road trip scavenger hunt are easy and don’t require any prep. Plus, they’ll keep everyone looking out the window instead of at a screen.
At the Campsite:
- Outdoor play: Encourage the kids to explore the outdoors. Whether it’s collecting shells, spotting wildlife, or building sandcastles, nature will be their playground.
- Travel-sized art kits: Bring along a few coloring books and crayons for those moments when you need some downtime.
5. Family-Friendly Campsites & Eating on the Road
The beauty of traveling with kids is that you’ll find plenty of family-friendly spots where everyone can unwind and have a good time.
Campsites:
- Great facilities: Many caravan parks and campsites cater specifically to families, with playgrounds, swimming pools, and even activities for kids.
- Free camping options: Australia is full of amazing free camping sites. Do your research to find those with good facilities like toilets and BBQs.
Feeding the family:
- Easy meals on the go: When you’re traveling, you want meals that are simple to whip up on a portable stove. Think wraps, grilled veggies, and pasta.
- Picnic stops: Take advantage of public BBQs and picnic areas. These make mealtime more fun, and the kids can run around while you cook.
6. Top Destinations for Kids & Parents
Australia’s diversity means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after thrilling adventures or chilled-out beach vibes.
Our Top Picks:
- The Northern Territory: From Kakadu to Litchfield, the NT is packed with wildlife, waterfalls, and Aboriginal culture. A true adventure for the whole family.
- Uluru: An educational and spiritual experience. The massive red rock is awe-inspiring for all ages, and there are plenty of cultural experiences to immerse yourselves in.
- South NSW Coast: Perfect for families who love the ocean, the South Coast offers pristine beaches, charming seaside towns, and outdoor activities that will keep everyone entertained.
- Arnhem Land: Remote and stunning, this area offers rich Indigenous culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the perfect setting for families seeking adventure and a deeper connection to the land.
- Ningaloo Coast: Famous for its coral reefs, Ningaloo is a snorkeler's paradise where you can swim with whale sharks, turtles, and manta rays. It’s an unforgettable coastal adventure for families.
7. Travel with Kids: Embrace the Chaos & Keep Adventuring
Life with kids doesn’t have to be any less adventurous. It’s all about embracing the chaos and learning to roll with the punches. When things don’t go to plan (and they won’t sometimes), just remember you’re making memories that will last a lifetime.
Pro Tips:
- Don’t sweat the small stuff: Plans will change, and things might get messy, but that’s all part of the adventure.
- Go at your own pace: You don’t need to rush to fit everything in. Take your time and enjoy the moments together.
Final Thoughts
Traveling Australia with kids is about as epic as it gets, and there’s no need to slow down just because you’ve got a family. Sure, it comes with its challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. From exploring hidden gorges to camping under the stars, you’ll make memories that’ll last a lifetime. So don’t hesitate—pack the car, grab the kids, and hit the road. The adventure is just getting started!