The smallest continent and biggest island in the world is Australia. It is almost as big as the 48 adjacent United States. There are about 20.4 million people and they are largely focused in th eastern and southeastern coastal urban regions. This means that there are wide open spaces to explore in the rest of the country, and this can be best done by car. Picturesque coastlines, inland mountainous areas and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wildlife are there for the traveller to experience.

You can easily arrange for a car rental at the airport or hotel with an international drivers licence or a validated American or European drivers permit. There are heaps of car hire companies offering many kinds of vehicles, from different makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. No matter what your needs and preferences are, there will always be a vehicle to suit you. For instance, those who wish to camp can find campervans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come equipped with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Deluxe models even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini-kitchen. If you are travelling in more rough terrain, there are four-wheel-drives. If you are traveling on a budget, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to travel in style.

If you are visiting Australia from another country, you should be knowledgeable with the driving conditions: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. The car rental company will usually provide you with detailed information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), emergency processes, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation in advance will ensure a successful and pleasurable car vacation in Australia.