“4WD Hunting Trips in Australia: Real Costs, Fuel Savings & Maintenance Tips”
- AussieJohn
- Aug 3
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 9
There’s nothing like hitting the open road in a 4WD, exploring Australia’s wild places, and camping under the stars. But before you set off for the Kimberley, the Top End, or the Simpson Desert, it’s worth knowing the true costs of 4WD travel—and how to keep them under control.
Some of you might already know these tips, some may just need a refresher, and others may have never done a big trip before. Either way, I hope this guide helps you plan your next big adventure and saves you a few dollars along the way.
Fuel, food, maintenance, and accommodation are the main expenses. Planning well and travelling smart can save you thousands of dollars and ensure your trip is memorable for the right reasons.
1. Fuel – Your Biggest Cost On Hunting Trips
Australia is huge, and the kilometres add up fast. Fuel is often the number one cost on any 4WD trip. Remote fuel stops can hit $2.50–$3.00 per litre or more.
Tips to Save on Fuel:
Plan your route smartly – Avoid unnecessary detours and know where the next servo is.
Use fuel apps – FuelMap and PetrolSpy can help you find the cheapest options.
Drive efficiently – Keep speeds moderate, check tyre pressures, and reduce roof and rear weight.
Carry jerry cans wisely – Buying extra fuel in larger towns can save a fortune in the bush.
2. Food and Supplies - Real Cost Of Hunting Trips
Cooking your own meals is a big cost saver compared to roadhouse or pub meals at $25–$40 a plate. With a 12V fridge or freezer and a compact oven like the Travel Buddy, it’s easy to eat well on the road.
Cost-Saving Food Tips:
Stock up in larger towns where supermarkets are cheaper.
Cook your own meals – One-pan dinners, wraps, and pre-marinated meats are simple and quick.
Carry long-life staples like pasta, rice, wraps, and canned goods for remote areas.
3. Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs
Your 4WD is your lifeline. Dust, corrugations, and water crossings will find any weakness. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than a recovery in the middle of nowhere.
Tips to Keep Maintenance Real Costs Of Hunting Trips:
Service before you go – Check oils, filters, belts, and brakes.
Carry spares and tools – Include fuses, belts, and a tyre repair kit.
Check your 4WD daily – Inspect tyres, fluids, and suspension on long trips.
Avoid overloading – Extra weight increases fuel use and vehicle wear.
Remember a wheel alignment and balance all wheels can save you $
There are a couple of things you should have in your tool kit, beyond just a tyre deflator. You’ll also need a good-quality puncture repair kit with decent instructions intact.
4. Don’t Forget Roadside Assistance
Even the best-prepared travellers can have bad luck. A snapped fan belt, flat battery, or electrical issue in the middle of nowhere can cost a fortune.
Having RACQ Roadside Assist Premium (or your state equivalent) is well worth it. Premium coverage can include:
Long-distance towing from remote regions
Fuel delivery if you run dry
Breakdown accommodation if you’re stranded
Help with batteries, tyres, and lockouts
It’s the peace of mind that no matter how well you plan, you’re not alone if something goes wrong.
5. Campsites and Accommodation
While not as costly as fuel, accommodation adds up if you rely on caravan parks or motels. The real cost of hunting trips can add up so do your homework first.
Ways to Save on Stays:
Free or low-cost camping – National parks, state forests, and WikiCamps are your friends.
Self-sufficient setups – Swags, rooftop tents, and campers reduce the need for paid sites.
Avoid peak season – Prices rise in school holidays and popular winter destinations.
6. Shop Smart for 4WD, Camping, and Boating Gear
Accessories can make your trip safer and more comfortable, but they don’t need to blow your budget.
Search online first to find the best deal.
Ask for price matching – Many local stores will match online pricing.
Check competitive retailers like Outback Equipment, which has a strong online presence for 4WD, camping, and boating accessories.
Every dollar you save on gear is another dollar you can put towards fuel, extra nights on the road, or your next adventure.
7. Planning Is Your Wallet’s Best Friend
A little forward planning goes a long way:
Map your route and fuel stops in advance.
Prep meals and buy in bulk before leaving.
Travel lighter to save fuel and reduce vehicle wear.
Schedule a pre-trip service and carry basic spares.
8. Watch Out for Road Hazards
Remote Australian roads can be dangerous, even for experienced drivers. Cattle, kangaroos, brumbies, and even water buffalo can appear suddenly, especially near dawn and dusk. On gravel or outback highways, the hazards are often well-hidden until it’s too late.
Safety Tips:
Avoid driving at night or very early in the morning whenever possible.
Adjust your speed to match the road and visibility conditions.
Stay alert in high wildlife areas and use spotlights responsibly if you must travel in
low light.
Recent flood damage to roads.
Driving with care not only keeps you safe but can also save you the cost of a major vehicle repair if you hit a large animal.
Sample 4WD Trip Budget (7 Days, 2 People)
Expense | Estimated Cost (AUD) | Notes |
Fuel (1,500 km @ 13L/100km, $2.10/L) | $410 | Highway and some off-road driving |
Food & Supplies | $280 | Mostly self-catered with a few roadhouse meals |
Campsite Fees | $120 | Mix of free camping and 2–3 caravan park nights |
Vehicle Maintenance | $70 | Tyre wear, oil top-ups, service allowance |
Total | $880 | Approx. $125 per day |
Sample Long-Distance Trip – Gold Coast to Darwin Return (Approx. 6,800 km, 14 Days)
Re | Estimated Cost (AUD) | Notes |
Fuel (6,800 km @ 13L/100km, avg. $2.20/L) | $1,940 | Mix of highway and remote fuel, some $3.00/L in NT |
Food & Supplies | $560 | Mostly self-catered, occasional roadhouse/pub meals |
Campsite Fees | $280 | Mix of free camping and 4–5 caravan park nights |
Vehicle Maintenance | $200 | Tyre wear, oil, minor service allowance |
Total Estimated Cost | $2,980 | Roughly $213 per day for two people |
Remember in Northern Territory you need a NT Parks Pass to visit or stay in Parks.
Extra Fuel-Saving Tip: Having a fuel card or account with providers like Ampol, Shell, BP, or Caltex can save you a few cents per litre, which adds up fast on long trips.
Also they may allow after hours service for fuel on certain pumps in unmanned stations.
Speaking of fuel: Fuel Quality Warning: In remote regions, you can be unlucky and get dirty fuel or fuel that has water from the bottom of a tank, especially in small or isolated servos. Contaminated fuel can quickly ruin injectors or leave you stranded.
Tip: Always carry spare fuel filters and know how to change them. A basic filter swap can save your trip and prevent a costly recovery.
Other memberships, such as BIG4 Holiday Parks, often provide fuel discounts and campsite savings, which can reduce your overall travel costs even further.
Key Takeaway: Long trips are fuel-heavy, and remote fuel prices are the biggest budget driver. Planning, self-sufficiency, and smart shopping can turn a costly adventure into an achievable one.
Footnote:
If you’re towing a trailer, remember to factor in extra fuel consumption, drag, and maintenance costs. Trailers have their advantages though — all your camp gear stays in the trailer, so you’re not overloading your vehicle. A well-set-out trailer can also give you more access to remote spots and make overnight camping easier and more comfortable.
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