ExplorOz Team replied:

1. How long? Youre going to need approx 18mths to do all this. The biggest issue is being in the right place at the right time. Do lots of research and write lots of draft itineries... start with a list and draw up 2 columns - places by state that youd like to visit and best time to be there. Youll find you cant do it all in one season as so much of the north and interior is not suitable for travel from late October onwards. Our last long trip we had to travel for almost 2 yrs to do all the coast and all the interior and still we missed the CSR.
2. Forbidden camping - council regulations vary but basically there is a certain radius from towns where free bush camping is not allowed. This is to protect and support the local caravan parks. Fines up to $200 not uncommon and during peak holiday periods you are likely to be caught out, even if camping o/n in vehicle. Beach carparks are particular target areas for o/n police checks in popular areas. In off season times things are more relaxed and there are many areas where council or National Park camps are free. If you keep out of towns (10-15km) if is easier to find secluded camps for o/n stops (under bridges, along a quiet track or headland). Its a good idea to stock up on books locating free camps - see our Shop for these. Youll find you get used to finding spots in out-of-the-way places. Harder to do along the east coast where its so populated but much easier in the interior regions. You get better at this the longer you travel. State Forests also allow free camping in all states - get maps for details as roads can be very confussing, unmarked and its very easy to get lost! But these places usually contain absolutely gorgeous camping under magnificent trees - sometimes facilities such as cleared camps and picnic tables are provided, but very basic.
3. Troopies are ideal for vehicle based camping as they are well suited to a complete camper fitout plus are very rugged vehicles therefore very popular with long term travellers. The HZJ75 engine is easy to get parts for; has heaps of storage space; comes standard with long range tanks; has a big 4.2L diesel engine so youll always have power to tow or grunt through sand or climb steep hills and is about the most go anywhere vehicle on the market even in its standard form. So good choice of vehicle!
Your whole attitude to life will change once youre on the road - it may seem daunting now, but with practise it really becomes quite easy and lots of fun. Best of luck - youll love it! David and Michelle

Mick replied:

Gday Bart & Marion, firstly the decision to change vehicles and get a Troopy is very wise, as long as the vehicle has been trip readied, ie serviced and inspected by a 4wd specialist it would be highly unlikely you will have any vehicle problems.. Time wise, allow as much as you can have, and it will still not be enough to see everything, allow 14-20 days for the CSR at least, to much to answer here, so e-mail me if you wish, cheers

Rodd&Nicole replied:

Were planning the same trip as yourselves but are complete novices. We were originally planning to take a caravan with a landcruiser (a bit of comfort) but feel we may miss out on the best parts. Now were thinking of looking for a trooper and taking a trailor and a small tinny. It would be great to talk to you guys and maybe compare notes! If you would like to contact us please do on roddnic@hotmail.com. Cheers

Sally & Matt replied:

Hi Bart & Marian, We are also planning a round Oz trip commencing early Aug 01 for 14 months. Weve been in the planning stages for about 4 months & have discovered theres no way well get to see everything we want to! Which paves the way for another trip in a few years! Were taking an OBriens Offroad Camper Trailer towed by a trusty 60 Series 1989 Landcruiser Station Wagon, but have recently discovered that it may not be possible to tow it everywhere - Simpson, Cape York, Fraser Island - so were taking a simple tent too. Would welcome a chat - sramshaw@optusnet.com.au Cheers! Sally & Matt