Best Advice for Last-Minute Travel and Road Trips

Be flexible

The number one rule for spontaneous travel is flexibility! Sometimes you'll get the best last-minute deals, find hidden gems, and score availability at the last second if you keep an open mind to your options and dates. Try considering destinations you might not have thought of before, places you've never visited, or somewhere you have previously overlooked. The trick is going for opportunity without rigid planning, so cast your net wide and get in the adventuring spirit. Our new G'day Parks app is your perfect flexible road trip companion. Not sure where to stay? Just open the app and search for accommodation near you to stay updated on last-minute availability for you to book. 

Choose your travel pals wisely

Here's the thing about spur-of-the-moment travel: it's not for everyone. To get the most out of a spontaneous holiday, you need to choose travel companions who will match your taste for freedom. It doesn't require much more than a sense of adventure and an open mind, but choose wisely for last-minute road trips. You're better off with flexible friends and family who enjoy going with the flow than those who prefer to stick to a structured travel itinerary.

Prep for emergencies

Spontaneity is a wonderful thing, but there's some situations in life where you just don't want to be caught out. While we're all for holidays on the fly, a little planning for safety and security is a must before hitting the open road. We recommend a tool kit, roadside emergency kit including tow ropes, and a first aid kit at a minimum. It's also worth checking your phone coverage and upgrading or changing your plan if you know you're heading into service blackspots and want to stay connected.

Fuel up

A good rule of thumb when it comes to road trips is, of course, making sure you've got enough fuel to get where you're going. Once you're out of the city locations, petrol stations can get few and far between, so keep an eye on your petrol gauge and take advantage of fuelling up before it becomes an emergency. We know one of the biggest costs for a road trip can be fuel, but we've got your back: G'day Rewards members can download the G'day Parks app to access fuel savings from Shell Reddy Express and participating shell branded sites nationwide.

Pack water and snacks

Fuel for humans is just as important as fuel for your car. It can get pretty hot on our Australian roads, especially in the heart of the outback, so make sure you're staying hydrated with plenty of water. It won't hurt to take more than you think you'll need, especially if your drive will take more than a couple of hours. Road trip snacks are a must, of course, but be mindful of quarantine rules if you're crossing state borders, especially with fruit and vegetables. You're better off keeping to non-perishable snacks and buying your produce locally when you arrive.

Ask a local

When exploring the great outdoors, there's no one better than a local to get advice on the best activities and attractions while completing your road trip adventure. If you're travelling somewhere new, don't hesitate to get chatting with our park teams or local business owners to get insider tips. From where to land the catch of the day to reviews on the best brewed coffee or wine bars in town, no one knows their slice of Australia more than a local.