Preparing For Your Great Tassie Road Trip

The famous island state of Australia, Tasmania’s geographically diverse landscape that teems with natural beauty, history and culture makes it ideal for road tripping. Imagine — winding coastal roads, quaint towns perched at the edge of wilderness, and a horizon that goes on forever. No wonder Tassie has become a bucket-list destination for so many international tourists and mainland Aussies alike.
However, as it is with any epic journey, the better prepared you are for the experience, the more enjoyable it will be. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a total newbie, ensuring you have all your bases covered is key. 
Here’s a guide to help you prepare for an unforgettable Tassie road trip, so all you need to worry about is which direction to head first.

1: Travel Insurance - Don’t Leave Home Without It 
Before you pack your bags or fill up your tank, one of the most crucial steps in planning your Tassie road trip is securing travel insurance. Trust us when we say you don’t want to leave home without it! 

It's more likely you'll be off the beaten track in Tasmania – perhaps walking from Cradle Mountain to the Tarkine Wilderness. But what if you break down in the middle of nowhere? Or what if you get into an accident or medical emergency? With travel insurance, you are protected from the crippling costs of such events and are guaranteed peace of mind. Insurance is also broader than just health — travel insurance can cover lost luggage, cancelled trips or even rental car excess if you have an accident.

A good travel insurance policy tailored to road trips is thus something that you should definitely invest in. Find a policy that offers coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation and trip interruption due to illness, lost or stolen baggage and vehicle-related issues like damage or theft. It may feel like another expense to add on top of everything else, but knowing you’re protected will allow you to enjoy your Tassie road trip experience without worrying about the “what ifs”. 

2: Plan Your Route But Stay Flexible

There is so much to see and do in Tasmania, that it can be easy for us as humans to get a little carried away with our plans! While a rough plan is crucial — especially to ensure you don't miss the likes of Bruny Island or Pelverata Falls along the way, an equally important factor is staying flexible.

First, lay out your major destinations, and how long you anticipate it will take to travel between them. Tasmania may look small on a map, but winding roads and frequent stops for Instagram photo ops can make journeys a lot longer than anticipated. Tools like Google Maps or road trip planners can be good resources to help estimate the amount of driving time between destinations and calculate fuel stops along your route. 

That being said, one of the pleasures of a road trip is the ability to take detours. Maybe you find a cute café in an unexpected village or perhaps someone tells you about a hidden beach that wasn't part of your itinerary. Though having a plan is always helpful, the best road trips allow you to stay flexible and embrace those unanticipated excursions. So, plan ahead but don’t be too rigid about your plans. You never know what you’ll discover when you embrace flexibility!

Pro tip: check out our itinerary suggestions for local insights into comfortable travel routes that still let you visit all of Huon Valley’s most popular destinations and tourist attractions.

3: Ready Your Vehicle - Safety First! 

Your vehicle is your best friend on a road trip, so you need to make sure it’s in tip-top shape before you set off. Regardless of whether you’re  driving your own car or renting one, it’s vital to perform a pre-trip inspection.
Inspect the standard stuff: tires (including the spare tire), oil, brakes, lights and windshield wipers. If you’re not savvy with mechanics, always leave this job to a professional. Tasmania’s roads and driving conditions are notoriously unpredictable and having a car that’s ready to tackle any conditions will keep you safe along your journey. 

If you’re renting, make sure the vehicle is appropriate for the terrain you’re covering. For example, if you intend to go off-road then a 4WD would be better than something like your average sedan. And try to throw in a GPS with your rental, as not all the regions of Tasmania’s far south have good phone coverage for maps.

4: Pack Smart - Dressing for Tasmania’s Climate

Packing right when you head off on your Tassie road trip will make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and fun journey. The fluctuating weather and diverse terrain in Tasmania means you need to be ready for anything that’s thrown your way, but that doesn’t mean packing everything but the kitchen sink. It's all about finding the happy medium — being ready, without loading so much gear into your vehicle that you unnecessarily weigh it down.

In terms of clothing, layers are key. Tasmania’s weather is very unpredictable and can go from warm to quite cold — yes, even in summer — so pack a combo of short-sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts, as well as a warm jumper or fleece. It also pays off having a beanie and gloves stored away just in case. Oh, and remember your walking shoes for the spur of the moment hikes or even a pair of sandals for when you go to the beach. 

In addition to clothing, pack essential items like a first-aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and reusable water bottles. Lightweight easy-to-erect camping equipment including compact tents, sleeping bags and portable stoves are must-haves if you’re planning on camping in remote areas. You should also have a flashlight with spare batteries and a basic toolkit for emergencies.

When it comes to food and drink, stock up on non-perishables and quick meals. Tasmania is a great place to eat out but you will find yourself at times driving without any shops or restaurants in sight. It can be something as simple as packing a cooler with some fresh fruits, sandwiches and maybe even one of your favourite treats for those long drives.

By packing smart, you’ll be ready to handle anything Tasmania throws at you and get the most out of your trip! 

5: Check Weather Forecasts Before You Drive

PSA: The whims of the Tasmanian weather are one of your most uncertain companions as you traverse this island. Tassie’s position in the Southern Ocean means that you’ll most likely experience “four seasons in a day”, so being weather-wise is key to staying comfortable and safe on your road trip.

Before setting off each day, make sure to check local weather conditions for all the areas you will be driving. This is even more important if you’re travelling to remote areas or mountains with low visibility and slippery roads. In these conditions, drive slowly and cautiously, and be prepared to alter your plans if the weather turns.

Being weather-prepared not only ensures your comfort but also helps you stay safe on the road. One more thing, don't let a little rain or wind ruin your day — once in a while some unexpected weather provides the best memories.

6: Plan For Connectivity - Stay Connected (But Also Disconnected)

In today’s digital age, staying connected on your travels can be pretty important. Whether it’s finding your way around with a maps app or making everyone on Instagram jealous of how awesome a time you are having — some planning ahead is essential when road tripping through Tassie.

In remote parts of Tasmania, phone signals may be patchy (sometimes even non-existent) so you can’t depend solely on your mobile phone for navigation or communication. This is where a physical map can really come in handy. Additionally, apps like Google Maps allow you to download specific areas for offline use, which can be a lifesaver in areas with little to no signal.

If you are travelling internationally, think about buying a local SIM card that comes with plenty of data. This is a much cheaper way to keep in touch than paying through your nose in international roaming fees. And, before heading out-of-town — especially into the wilds — let friends and family in on schedule so they can check in if they don't hear from you.

But hey, half of the fun of spending a few days on the road in Tassie is the chance to switch off from the regular hustle and bustle. Use this time to unplug, enjoy the scenery, and engage fully with the people and places around you.

7: Savour The Local Flavours 

Tasmania is truly a foodie’s heaven, so you don’t want to miss out on the plethora of amazing eats you’ll come across along your journey. There is a bevy of culinary options to delight every taste bud as you traverse the island — from fresh seafood to world-class wines.

Make sure you stop in at local markets, farms and roadside stalls. Tasmania’s cool climate is perfect for growing a wide variety of produce, and you’ll find everything from berries and apples to cheeses and honey. The island is also famous for its seafood, so don't miss out on those fresh oysters, scallops, and Tassie salmon.
If you enjoy a drop of wine, head to one (or more) of Tasmania’s cool climate vineyards such as those around the Tamar Valley or within the Coal River Valley. Most wineries also provide tastings, and there's something just super special about enjoying wine right from the tap.

Whether it be a simple roadside picnic at the beach or an elegant gourmet meal in a sleepy little historical town, the food is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip.

8: Document Your Journey 

Last but not least, don’t forget to document your journey. With all of the stunning natural backdrops and quirky, unforgettable experiences you are going to have along your Tassie road trip, you will definitely want photos as proof! 

Bring along a high quality camera (or just your smartphone with LOTS of memory/storage) and Invest in a power bank to keep your devices up and running, particularly during long drives or while exploring places that are off the grid. Additionally, you might want to create videos online to capture the entire experience and share it with others. Many apps and platforms allow you to quickly edit and share your adventure with the world.

However, with that said, don’t let the camera lens become a barrier between you and your surroundings. Sometimes, the best memories are those we take in with our own eyes and store in our hearts. So, while it’s great to capture the beauty of Tasmania, make sure you also take time to fully immerse yourself in the moment.

Final Reflections 

With all the planning and preparation in place, your Tassie road trip is set to be an adventure of a lifetime. From exploring natural wonders to immersing in the culture and history, this island leaves you spoilt, with SO MUCH to explore at your own pace. 

Remember, as you drive through such a wide range of landscapes in Tasmania — from harsh coastlines to lush rainforests — it’s important to appreciate the journey just as much (if not more) than your final destination.
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So go ahead — pack your bags, prepare an epic playlist, and get ready to hit the road. Your great Tassie adventure awaits. Safe travels!