One of your biggest expenses when travelling Australia is always going to be fuel so any tips on how to save money on fuel will be valuable.

Along with Food and Accommodation it’s going to be in your Top 3 costs when travelling the country.

It’s a big country too, with so much to see and sometimes long distances in between, to arrive at your next destination.

Up Mountains, across tracks and over sand, it all takes up more fuel.

We’ve been around the Country, up and down and right across and have found some ways which we have been able to save fuel.

Here’s How to Save Money on Fuel when Travelling Australia:

Let’s see if any of these tips can help you reduce your costs when travelling Australia.

Using a Fuel App is a great way to Save Money on Fuel

There’s a number of fuel apps now to help direct you to the closest fuel station at the lowest price.

They are only as good as us as users to update these apps but for the most part they are an excellent source to find the cheapest priced fuel near you.

I like Fuel Map Australia. It’s Free and is my preferred app that I use all the time.

Petrol Spy and MotorMouth are two other popular apps and there are others also. The NSW Government released their own app called NSW FuelCheck.

GasBuddy is considered the most accurate in Victoria.

Whichever Fuel App you use, they are a great way of buying cheaper fuel when travelling.

Discount Fuel Cards

Woolworths and Coles are the obvious options here rewarding you with 4c a Litre off every time you spend $30 or more in their store.  Use your Rewards Card when you fill up with fuel at a Coles Express or Woolworths Petrol Station and receive the discount off your fuel.

We never go to Coles Express any more, we now find their fuel over priced.

Our preferred fuel at the moment is Woolworths. However Puma provides us 4c a Litre off as well just for being members with RACQ. We find Woolworths compete on bowser price and then with the discount it can be significant savings in the cost of the fuel.

Check with your Royal Automobile Club membership what discounts they have associations with.

Costco have great fuel prices however if you’re travelling it is of no real benefit. There’s an annual fee to join and very few stores around the country.

United Fuel

A brand that we found were mostly available right across Australia and had the best value, we found was United.

They were consistently lower in price than any others in most regions we travelled.

United Fuel is the former Esso brand which changed name back in 1993.

In some areas, specifically NSW we found Metro Petroleum was often quite cheap.

Utilise Jerry Cans

We carried fuel drums with us as we travelled. If the opportunity arose, we would use our drums to store great value fuel.

When we came across fuel that was significantly cheaper then “normal” price for the area we would fill up and fill our Sceptor Jerry cans too.

Along the Stuart Highway just south of Devils Marbles was a tiny town of Wycliffe Well. The fuel station at the time was exceptionally cheap in a region of typically high priced fuel so we ensured we topped up as much as we could.

Hughenden in Qld was another where we found a self serve fuel station with cheap fuel and there have been many others during our time on the road.

Read about our: 47 Caravan Motorhome RV & Camping Accessories

Going to islands such as Fraser Island where fuel is $2.30 – 2.45 a litre, Moreton Island which is $3 a litre or Kangaroo Island where it is approx 30c above mainland prices is expensive! These are certainly times you will want your Jerry cans full and with you to save money on fuel costs.

Turn off your air con and wind down the window when driving at lower speeds

Whenever I am driving below 70kmh I prefer to wind down the window.

I’ve always done it as I prefer the fresh air and better power. When I’m driving around 80kmh it is too noisy and less pleasant so I put the window up and use the air conditioner.

Who knew it was actually proven to be better for fuel consumption with what I was doing.

It turns out that at higher speeds aerodynamic drag from the windows being down negatively effects your fuel consumption.

At speeds below 80kmh it is better for fuel economy to have your windows down than it is to use your air conditioner. Over 80kmh it is better to use your air conditioner and close your windows.

Check your Tyres Often Helps Save Money on Fuel

There are obvious benefits to regularly checking your tyres.

Checking there is no significant wear on your tyres will ensure your safety and reduce the likelihood of a blowout. However also checking tyre pressures will save you money on fuel.

Always maintaining the correct tyre pressure for your tyres and vehicle will provide better fuel economy.

Fuel saving methods for your tow vehicle

Limiting Weight

The more we take with us the more fuel we will use.

We constantly review everything we carry in our Motorhome and cull what we aren’t using. This should be every travellers constant review of their travel rig.

Our goal is to always be limiting our weight to only what it needs to be.

When towing a van with your 4WD you have a lot more to consider when it comes to correct weights but the same principles still apply, the lighter you are the less fuel you will consume.

Wind Resistance

Consider the affects of protruding items such as kayaks, bicycles, surf boards and boats with regard to wind resistance and the potential extra fuel costs.

A wind deflector on your 4WD if you are towing a full size Caravan may provide a significant benefit. They may look a bit odd but the savings are genuine. A deflector will provide better performance when over taking or climbing hills.

When towing it is wise not to use cruise control. Your vehicle will accelerate hard to maintain the set speed especially in head winds or hill rises and therefore use more fuel.

It is recommended that you don’t use cruise control when towing.

Reduce Weight in your Caravan

Once again, correct weights in your Caravan are vital with towing and you will therefore be governed by weight distribution around how you travel with water in your tanks and other matters regarding what you carry.

It still stands to reason though the more you have in your Caravan the greater your weight, the heavier you are and the more fuel you will use.

When we leave our camp for a new destination we will assess how much water and fuel we are carrying and where possible leave it until we arrive at our next stop before filling up.

Not Leaving your Vehicle Idling Saves Money on Fuel

It’s best to turn off your engine when stopped even for short periods.

When starting your engine it uses about the same amount of fuel as it would if it was idling for 30 seconds.

If you need to pull over to answer your phone or if you have situations like me where Adele says she’s just running into the shops and will be super fast which turns out to be 20 minutes, it’s best to turn off the engine to save on fuel.

Our friends we travelled with lamented to us more than once about the Caravan owners next to them waking them up early in the morning with their engine running as they hooked up the Van to leave.

This seems to be common where vehicle engines are left running for a period of time during the hooking up and finalising pack up before leaving camp.

There used to be a time where Diesel engines were best warmed up before driving however with new technology that’s no longer necessary for any longer then 15-30 seconds if at all.

Leaving the engine running for longer then 30 seconds simply uses more fuel, it’s best to turn your engine off.

It goes without saying not to do this in normal driving situations. When stopped at lights, railway crossing or similar do not turn off your vehicle engine.

You don’t need to buy Premium Fuels unless your Vehicle Manual suggests you should

This RACV article discusses the issue.

There are so many options for Petrol now with E10, 91, 95 and 98. The numbers represent the level of Octane with 95 and 98 considered Premium fuel.

There is no need to use a Premium fuel if it isn’t required, 91 will perform appropriately.

Do some research of the use of E10 for your vehicle before using it.

How to Save Money on Fuel by Maintaining a Consistent Speed

As previously discussed, if you are towing it’s best not to use Cruise Control however when not towing it can help ensure you maintain a constant speed and therefore reduce fuel consumption.

This is especially the case on generally flat highway conditions where you may have no stops, can maintain a constant speed with few significant inclines

You could Slow Down your Travelling

By staying in one place longer and not moving as often you will reduce fuel costs.

However for most travellers on their Big Lap of Oz they have a limited time of just 1-2 years and it’s a huge country with heaps to see and do.

That means for most people, stopping for lengthy periods in one place just for fuel economy isn’t really an option.

If you do have the opportunity to travel slowly and stop for extended periods this can certainly improve the amount of fuel you use while travelling.

Drive a Diesel rather than Petrol

Diesel engines use up to a third less fuel than Petrol.

That is a massive saving however it should also be compared to potential higher fuel cost at the pump and higher cost for the vehicle where Diesel engines are generally more expensive than Petrol.

Buying second hand vehicles can potentially negate this issue.

There’s a lot of advice around driving Diesel or Petrol vehicles. Carsguide for instance states “If you’re going to be towing a boat or caravan regularly, it’s a no brainer because a Diesel will do it better and use far less fuel at the same time”

All research will tell you a Diesel will perform over the long term more economically than Petrol when asked to perform for long periods under varying conditions.

The bowser price for Diesel also tends to be consistent rather than the continual fluctuations of Petrol prices which helps for budgeting and targeting the best price.

More Expensive Fuel does not Necessarily Mean Longer kms and Therefore Greater Economy

Trying to test this is always challenging because you don’t drive the exact same conditions each tank of fuel.

Weights, highway to city driving, uphill, offroad and a range of other factors will always differ each time we drive. Therefore potentially it will affect the fuel economy with each tank of fuel we use.

However I did recently do a test using BP Diesel, the fuel long regarded as the best for longer distance, compared to Woolworths where it was approximately 7c cheaper.

BP didn’t provide any greater distance from the tank of fuel but the saving of 7c a litre or more with Woolworths is obvious.

I am still recording my fuel and will finalise my thoughts on this in the near future however I found no benefit from using BP over any other brand.

Keeping control over your fuel costs will help you maintain your budget when travelling.

Use the savings to see more of our amazing Country!

Pin – How to Save Money on Fuel

Read more on How to Save Money when Travelling Australia:

Do you have any other tips on how to save money on fuel travelling Australia?

Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.

Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/2yQwPed  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/2XlOZ0I – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/38wMc7V  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

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Our 7 Best Things to See in Bermagui highlight just why you should visit the beautiful New South Wales town of Bermagui.

Bermagui is a small seaside town set alongside glorious turquoise waters on the breathtaking Sapphire Coast of Southern New South Wales.

Nestled below Mt Dromedary, Bermagui boasts a spectacular harbour.

With the continental shelf being just 20kms off-shore and being the closest point to the Australian mainland, it provides perfect conditions off the coast of Bermagui for deep-sea and game fishing.

There is also good estuary fishing in the rivers and lakes of the region.

Here are our 7 Best Things to See in Bermagui

1.  The Blue Pool

When visiting beautiful Bermagui, one of the 7 Best Things to see is The Blue Pool, it’s a must.

It is a naturally fed ocean pool and is aptly named for the blue coloured water reflecting from the sky on a clear day.

Besides swimming you can also go snorkeling in the natural rock pool. It’s great to be able to check out the sea life in a fairly safe environment.

Just beware of the waves as they crash over the rocks into the pool at high tide and at other times when the conditions are rough.

The viewing platform at the lookout above the Blue Pool is an awesome spot for whale watching during whale season.

2. Bruce Steer Ocean Swimming Pool

Another great swimming spot in Bermagui is the Bruce Steer Ocean Swimming Pool which is to the side of the Harbour just below Bermagui Point and just a short stroll from the main street of Bermagui.

The pool is fed from the ocean making it a natural saltwater pool. The pool is protected from Bermagui Point, has a sandy beach and is calm and safe for swimming.

There is also a net at the end which opens to the ocean to prevent any sharks from entering.

The pool is named after Colonel John Mansel Bruce Steer who fought hard for the improvements to the Bermagui Harbour and for improved conditions for professional fishermen.

3.  Fishermen’s Wharf

The Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf is a great spot if you like fresh seafood.

There is also an awesome ice cream shop which we visited a number of times! The Bermagui Gelati Clinic is definitely one clinic we didn’t mind visiting!

Bermagui Fishermen’s Co-Operative is one of the major suppliers of seafood for the Sydney Fish Market as well as a supplier to local restaurants and cafes.

Flathead, Snapper, Tuna, Swordfish and Shark are just some of the types of fish caught in this area.

The original Bermagui Fishermen’s Co-Operative operated from 1948 until 1975.

After the old Co-Op building was demolished, the current Fishermen’s Wharf complex was established and became home to the $2billion industry in 2009.

4.  Camel Rock

Camel Rock in Wallaga Lake just north of Bermagui is among the oldest rocks in New South Wales.

This rock formation was created by underwater avalanches around 450 million years ago and bears a strong resemblance to a camel.

You can view Camel Rock from the beach or the Camel Rock Viewing Platform.

Also call into the Camel Rock Brewery Bar and Grill while you are in the area.

Read more about NSW: Exploring Honeymon Bay and Discover Gosangs Tunnel

5.  Horse Head Rock

It is believed that Horse Head Rock is in the proximity of 500 million years old making it one of the oldest rocks in NSW!

This distinctive rock formation which resembles a horses head is located between the surf beach at Camel Rock and Murunna Point at Wallaga Lake.

To get to Horse Head Rock from Camel Rock Surf Beach, it is only accessible at low tide and although it is roughly only 200 metres, it is difficult in parts as you make your way over rocks near Camel Rock.

Be sure to allow enough time to return on low tide as well!

There is also a bush walking track that takes you along an elevated area for the best viewing of Horse Head Rock.

6. Wallaga Lake

Another popular spot for fishing is Wallaga Lake, the largest lake in southern New South Wales.

Wallaga Lake is just 7kms north of Bermagui and opens to the sea at Murunna Point, a significant Aboriginal place.

The Lake is also a popular spot for swimming, boating, sailing and water skiing and has a number of picnic and toilet facilities around the lake.

7.  Michael Lerner Lookout

The Michael Lerner Lookout offers awesome views of the ocean and rugged coastline. Just 3kms south of Bermagui, the lookout has a fabulous elevated picnic area and day rest area.

The lookout is named after Michael Lerner who holds the record for hooking and landing two Black Marlin at the one time.

Distances from Bermagui

How far is Bermagui to Sydney

Bermagui is just under 380kms south of Sydney. Traveling directly by car on the A1, it is just over a five hours’ drive to Bermagui from Sydney. While exploring the Sydney to Bermagui coastline we made numerous stops along the way staying at Coledale, Windang, Jervis Bay, Ulladulla,  Pretty Beach and Dalmeny just to name a few.

How far is Bermagui to Batemans Bay

It is around a 1 ½ hr drive from Bermagui to Batemans Bay. The distance between Bermagui and Batemans Bay is approx. 104kms.

How far is Bermagui to Canberra

The distance between Bermagui and Canberra by road is around 250kms and takes just under 3 ½ hrs to drive between the two.

Other great places to stay in the region:

Bermagui Fun Facts

Did you know the movie, The Man who Sued God starring Billy Connolly and Judy Davis, was filmed in Bermagui.

Also the historic wooden bridge at Wallaga Lake was featured in the movie Unbroken directed by Angelina Jolie.

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Our readers also enjoy reading:

• 19 Spectacular Secret Beaches
• Our Favourite Experiences as we Travel Australia
• 17 Very Cool Gadgets and ideas for Traveling
• What it REALLY Costs to Travel Australia

Have you ticked off any or all of the 7 Best Things to See in Bermagui? Let us know in the comments below of any other things that you have seen in this magnificent Bermagui region.

Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.

Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/2yQwPed  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/2XlOZ0I – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/38wMc7V  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

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Follow us, Subscribe, Like, Share, and Comment on our website and social media here:-

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indefiniteleave/

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/indefiniteleav3

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This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through a link on this page we may receive a small commission. It will not cost you any more, in fact we’ve sourced out some great deals for you. Thank you for supporting us.

The Queensland Coastline boasts at least 16 great Queensland free & low cost camps from Brisbane to Cairns alone!

The East Coast of Australia is the most popular road trip destination in Australia and no more so than the Brisbane to Cairns leg in Queensland.

With so many famous locations and must see destinations such as the Gold Coast, Noosa, Fraser Island, 1770, the Whitsundays, Mission Beach plus the Daintree and Cape Tribulation it is no surprise why so many travellers hitch up to visit Queensland and some never leave.

Let’s also not forget one of the 7 Great Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef, is a worldwide attraction and an incredible drawcard for the Sunshine State.

The warmer weather in Queensland is also very attractive to those living in the southern states of Australia, especially during the winter months of the year.

With so many experiences to be had saving on accommodation allows you to experience more of these amazing locations.

We have listed some great Free and Low Cost camps where you can stay when travelling from Brisbane to Cairns in beautiful sunny Queensland.

Here are favourite 16 Great Queensland Free & Low Camps from Brisbane to Cairns:

1. Hugh Muntz Park, Beenleigh Brisbane

Hugh Muntz Park camping is approx halfway between the Gold Coast and Brisbane at Beenleigh.

This is a Free camp situated in a park setting and is walking distance to shops including groceries.

The park provides drinking water and BBQ’s plus it is pet friendly.

There are toilets available plus a dump point on site.

The max stay is 3 nights.

Be aware the campground is located close to the busy M1 Pacific Motorway.

We recommend visiting the nearby Beenleigh Rum Distillery. Tours of the distillery are available also.

2. Lawnton Showgrounds, Lawnton Brisbane

The Lawnton Showgrounds are located in the Pine Rivers region on Brisbane Northside.

Ok, the Showgrounds are not free and at $25 a night why is it in this list?

For a major city offering fantastic facilities such as available here it is the Best Stopover when you have to stay in Brisbane. It is simply excellent low cost value.

All sites are powered and have water for just $25 a night and you can stay up to 21 nights.

There are 2 toilet blocks, a good camp kitchen, dump point and it is pet friendly.

Lawnton train station is within walking distance to catch a train for appointments in the city plus BCF, Bunnings, Supercheap Auto and the Lawnton Swimming Pool are also only a short stroll away.

We recommend taking a look around the Lawnton Markets which are on each Saturday morning to enjoy a great Bacon & Egg burger and drink plus find a bargain.

Read about: 21 Best Things to do in and around Brisbane

3. Cooroy RV Stopover, Sunshine Coast

A perfect spot to stay when visiting the Sunshine Coast, only 20 minutes drive to Noosa.

The Cooroy RV Stopover is a low cost camp and offers an excellent place to stay with good level grassy grounds.

Drinking water is available plus bins and a dump point are in place.

The Cooroy RV Stopover is also pet friendly.

You will need to be self contained meaning toilet on board plus holding tanks for black and grey water.

Maximum stay is 72 hours.

We recommend walking Noosa National Park and explore its incredible beauty and if reasonably fit, take a walk to the top of Mount Coolum during your stay.

4. Tiaro Memorial Park, Tiaro

Just 27kms south of Maryborough is the fabulous Tiaro Memorial Park Free Camp. It’s only small however there are toilets and hot showers available.

It is also pet friendly.

We found this a great spot for an overnighter.

5. Hervey Bay Free 48 Rest Stop, Hervey Bay

Behind the Hervey Bay Information Centre is a good 48 hour Rest Stop. You do need to be self contained.

There are no facilities except a dump point which is locked, access is by a key at the Information Centre desk.

It is just 5 minutes from town and all the features of Hervey Bay.

While in Hervey Bay take a Whale Watching tour and don’t miss the opportunity to see the World Heritage Listed Fraser Island.

Read more: Our Trip from Hervey Bay to Bundaberg

6. Workmans Beach Campground, Agnes Water

This is a fantastic campground in one of Australia’s most beautiful locations.

Agnes Water/ 1770 is a beautiful small town on Queensland’s Coastline between Bundaberg and Gladstone.

The Workmans Beach Campground is just 400m to the beach and provides toilets, BBQ’s and is pet friendly.

While in town head to 1770 for spectacular Sunsets and Sunrises and enjoy the Larc Tour to Bustard Head.

7. Boynedale Bush Camp, Lake Awoonga

Lake Awoonga is just 30kms from Gladstone in Queensland and the Boynedale Bush Camp is set overlooking the lake.

A few years ago millions of Barrimundi fingerling were released in to the Lake along with some Mangrove Jack and with Red Claw also available it can be a great place to go fishing and camping.

There are toilets available however no power, no water and no bins.

Dogs are discouraged as there is a lot of surrounding wildlife.

8. Calliope River Rest Area, near Gladstone

The Calliope River Free Camps are located on both sides of the Calliope River and are a very popular overnight place to stay for travelers.

There are toilets available and fires are allowed. Pets are permitted also.

It is just a 20 minute drive to Gladstone from the Campgrounds.

9. Kershaw Gardens Free Camp, Rockhampton

The Kershaw Gardens Free Camp is a simple space on the edge of parklands in Rockhampton.

It is well located and within easy walking distance to Coles, Kmart, Chemists, Camping Stores and lots more.

The Free camp is available for 48 hour stay. There are no facilities and you must be self contained.

The Rockhampton Council have been fantastic and fought to keep this Free Camping space for travelers for the benefit of all businesses in Rockhampton and we acknowledge this and thank the Council for their wisdom and courage.

While in Rockhampton we recommend visiting the spectacular region of Yeppoon.

10. Carmila Beach Campground, Carmila

100 kms south of Mackay is the ocean front Carmila Beach Camping Ground.

Previously a Free place to stay it is now $12.50 per vehicle a night.

There are toilets, bins and a dump point available and it is pet friendly. You will need to bring your own water and please place your rubbish in the bins provided.

There is great fishing in the rivers either side of the Campground.

Watch our video of getting our Motorhome bogged in the sand at Carmila Beach.

11. Notch Point, Ilbilbie

Spend 7 days with stunning views and fantastic fishing for Free at Notch Point in Queensland.

Take the turnoff at Ilbilbie but it is 4WD only and the track includes tidal pools of water to navigate.

There are no facilities and you will need to take all your provisions with you.

It is pet friendly but before letting your dog go swimming there’s plenty of signs regarding sharks and possible salt water crocodiles.

12. RV Park Proserpine & Peter Faust Dam Proserpine

There are now 2 Free Camping options at Proserpine thanks to a progressive local Council and both are excellent options.

The Peter Faust Dam at Lake Proserpine opened in October 2019 and provides a 72 hour stay for Free. It is accessible for rigs of all sizes.

There are toilets and showers plus it is pet friendly.

Back in town is the RV Park Proserpine which offers 48 hour Free camping for Self Contained RV’s.

Drinking Water is available plus there are bins and a dump point.

It is also pet friendly.

Proserpine is the gateway to the phenominal Whitsundays and Airlie Beach. We highly recommend the Ocean Rafting Tour.

Book your Ocean Rafting Tour here>

13. Toomulla Beach Rest Area, north of Townsville

Just 40kms north from Townsville is the Toomulla Beach Rest Area.

Toilets, BBQ’s and bins are available and it is pet friendly.

This is an excellent free camp however remember to bring your insect repellent as there are mangroves nearby so midges and mosquitos are always possible.

Read more: Winning the War against Midges or Sand Flies

14. TYTO RV Park, Ingham

The TYTO RV Park isn’t Free but it is just $10 per vehicle and with such beautiful surroundings it sure is worth it.

Register and pay at the Information Centre next door. Given it is located on wetlands there is a strict no grey water on the ground rule.

The TYTO RV Park is a maximum 48 hour stay.

It is pet friendly and water, toilets, bins and a dump point are all available.

While staying at TYTO RV Park in Ingham do the day trip to the amazing Wallaman Falls.

15. Babinda Rotary Park, Babinda

The Babinda Rotary Park Rest Area is a great Free camp beside the river and offer toilets, drinking water and $2 hot showers.

Maximum stay is 72 hours.

There is also another free camp nearby at beautiful Babinda Boulders.

Babinda is less then an hours drive to Cairns.

16. Greenpatch Reserve, Gordonvale Cairns

The Greenpatch Reserve is located in Gordonvale besides the Mulgrave River just 23kms from Cairns CBD.

This Free camp is very popular and provides toilets and $1 hot showers. Bins are also available.

It is located near the highway so can be noisy.

Maximum length of stay is 72 hours.

Read all about the Things to See and Do in Cairns plus don’t miss a Day trip to Fitzroy Island.

Book your Fitzroy Island tickets here>

Check out: Things to See and Do in Cairns

A couple of tips for Free camping

• Arrive between 9am and 1pm just after others have left for their next adventures. By mid afternoon most Free Camps tend to get busy with other travellers arriving to set up camp.

If you turn up early you have a much better chance at securing a site and a better spot.

• Don’t just leave with your own rubbish but clean up the immediate space around you.

If we all commit to being responsible for leaving our space cleaner than when we arrived then in no time we will all be staying in a clean environment.

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There are so many free camps but these 16 Great Queensland Free Camps from Brisbane to Cairns are our favourites in our home state. Let us know in the comments below if you have stayed at any others that you rate highly.

Check out these other great blogs:

Safe travels

Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave

We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.

Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.

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Photography and Socials

Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:

Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – https://ebay.to/2XOjXhi – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.

Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.

Lenses

Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/2yQwPed  This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.to/3eCueUo This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/2XlOZ0I – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – https://ebay.to/2TWt0vA  – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.

Our Go Pro 7 Hero Black – https://ebay.to/38wMc7V  –  is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.

Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo  This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.

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Website: https://indefiniteleave.com.au/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/indefiniteleave

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/indefiniteleave/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/indefiniteleav3

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