ROAD trips continue to be a popular activity among Australians, with a recent survey by Budget Direct showing that 91.9 per cent of respondents had taken a road trip in 2024, up from 88.4 per cent in 2022.
The survey highlights a growing interest in exploring local destinations, with many Australians, particularly families, choosing to embark on road trips to discover more of their own country.
Grey nomads, in particular, were found to be more likely to drive long distances—over 15 hours—and were also the most thorough in preparing for their travels. They were more likely to check their vehicle’s condition, including tyres, oil, and spare parts, and plan their route in advance.
Compared to Budget Direct’s 2022 survey, respondents in 2024 were generally better prepared, with more people checking critical aspects of their vehicles and planning their trips before setting off. Over half of those surveyed reported checking tyre pressure and condition, oil levels, and mapping out their journey beforehand.
With over half of respondents indicating they plan to take another road trip soon, the trend shows no sign of slowing.
Essential road trip preparation tips from Budget Direct include:
• Plan your route, considering road closures and signs
• Plan fuel and break stops
• Ensure your car is roadworthy by checking the windscreen, washer bottle, fuel and oil levels, tyres (including the spare), lights, brakes, and battery
• Pack an emergency kit
• Bring adequate food and water for the trip.
