Aussies aren’t letting high petrol prices stop them hitting the road this year, with search data from KAYAK, the world’s leading travel search engine, showing a 161% increase in Australian car hire searches in 2022 (between 01.01.2022 – 20.06.2022) compared to pre-pandemic (between 01.01.2019 to 20.06.2019*).
When it comes to planning the perfect ‘roadie’, Aussies are spoilt for choice across the country. From the Great Ocean Road in Victoria to the high country of the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, there are many routes to choose from, but it can be difficult to settle on a destination that meets your needs.
To help make choosing your best road trip destination easier, KAYAK has developed a comprehensive Road Trip Index^, providing specific insights and information around the cost of a road trip, road safety, environmental impact and cultural opportunities of Australian road trips, enabelling travellers to find the right road trip for their holiday.
KAYAK Brand Director Nicola Carmichael, says, “Australians are lucky enough to live in a country with access to some of the world’s most scenic drives, and KAYAK is encouraging us to get out there and explore via car this year. With Aussies seeing the pinch to their wallets from cost of living pressures and rising flight costs, road trips offer a fun, and in many cases, affordable way to get your holiday fix in your own backyard.”
Tasmania ranks as the best state for Australian road trips
When it comes to the best destinations to plan a road trip, Tasmania has been ranked as the top destination in KAYAK’s Australian Road Trip Index. Not only does Tasmania boast stunning natural wonders – with the most terrestrial protected areas and national parks, and the lowest air pollution – it also has the fewest serious car accidents, good radio coverage, offers great affordability, and has the highest proportion of hotels offering free parking.
Victoria ranked second in the overall index, in part thanks to the great roadside amenities for travellers. Victoria has the most public restrooms, the best mobile data coverage and the most electric vehicle charging stations and service stations than any other state.
Northern Territory placed third with ample natural beauty and also ranks well for affordability thanks to affordable parking and holiday park prices, and no road tolls.
The full ranking for Australian road trip states and territories within KAYAK’s Road Trip Index:
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- NSW / ACT
- Western Australia
- South Australia
Beyond the overall ranking, KAYAK’s index allows travellers to choose the best destination based on their own priorities. For some, affordability will be the key deciding factor, while for others the desire to experience natural beauty is key.
Top States by Road Trip Category:
- Infrastructure and accessibility: Victoria
- Affordability: Tasmania
- Traffic and sustainability: Northern Territory
- Camping and outdoor experiences: Tasmania
- Nature and landmarks: Tasmania
Affordable road trips are still possible for travellers who plan ahead
KAYAK’s data shows that the average daily price for car rental in Australia (based on searches between 01.01.2022 -20.06.2022) in 2022 is approximately $120, a 144% increase on pre pandemic levels (based on searches between 01.01.2019 -20.06.2019). For those with flexibility on travel dates, planning ahead will help make your trip more affordable with most states offering their best car hire deals over October and November this year**
The most affordable weeks for car rental prices in 2022* (based on searches between 01.01.2022 – 20.06.2022) compared to average daily Australia car rental price in 2019**:
- Tasmania – w/c 21st August, approximately $80 p/d, 33% below average hire car price
- Victoria – w/c 9th October, approximately $84 p/d, 30% below average hire car price
- Northern Territory – w/c 13th November, approximately $108 p/d, 10% below average hire car price
- NSW+ACT – w/c 4th November, approximately $88 p/d, 26% below average hire car price
Western Australia – w/c 30th October, approximately $96 p/d, 20% below average hire car price - South Australia – w/c 16th October, approximately $91p/d, 24% below average hire car price
For further information on the Road Trip Index or to search for great deals on car hire, flights, and accommodation, visit kayak.com.au
