If you’ve spent any time in Aussie travel forums or campgrounds, you’ve probably heard people talking about “the Big Lap.” But what exactly does that mean? And more importantly, how can you do one?

The Big Lap is Australia’s ultimate road trip – a full circuit around the country that takes in coastlines, deserts, rainforests, and everything in between. For some, it’s a six-month sprint. For others, it’s a multi-year lifestyle. No two laps look the same, but the dream is the same: exploring the real Australia, one kilometre at a time.

So, What Exactly is the Big Lap?

At its simplest, the Big Lap is a drive around mainland Australia, usually following Highway 1, which links all major coastal cities and covers roughly 30,000 kilometres.

But here’s the thing: very few people just stick to Highway 1. Most travellers weave in and out – into the Red Centre, up to Cape York, across the Kimberley, or down into Tasmania. That’s why no two Big Laps are identical.

For some, it’s about ticking off the “must-see” icons like Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Great Ocean Road. For others, it’s about finding hidden bush camps, fishing spots, and quiet outback towns.

How Long Does It Take?

The answer: however long you’ve got.

  • Fast Track: 3–6 months. Lots of driving, less lingering.
  • Classic Lap: 9–12 months. The most common choice – lets you follow the seasons and see most highlights.
  • Extended Lap: 1–3 years. Popular with families and grey nomads who sell or rent out their homes and live on the road full-time.

Some even break it into chunks – doing, say, the East Coast one year and the West Coast the next.

Clockwise or Counterclockwise?

This is one of the first big decisions. It usually depends on the weather:

  • Clockwise: Best if you’re leaving in summer/autumn – head south first, then loop north for the dry season.
  • Counterclockwise: Best if you’re leaving mid-year – head north for the dry season, then swing back down south for summer.

The golden rule? Chase the sun. Northern Australia is best in winter (dry season), while southern Australia shines in summer.

What Do I Need to Do a Big Lap?

A Setup That Suits You

Caravan, camper trailer, motorhome, 4WD with a rooftop tent – there’s no one right answer. It depends on your budget, comfort level, and how remote you want to go.

Read More: What Type of Setup Do You Need for the Big Lap?

A Tow Vehicle You Can Trust

If you’re towing, make sure your vehicle is legally capable and comfortable for long hauls. Understanding towing weights and safety gear is essential.

Read More: Tow Vehicle & 4WD Essentials

A Budget (and a Buffer)

The Big Lap can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000+ for a year, depending on how fast you travel and how much you splurge. Slow down, mix free camping with caravan parks, and you’ll save a fortune.

Read More: How Much Does a Big Lap Cost?

A Flexible Itinerary

Plan your route around the seasons, but don’t overschedule. Some of the best adventures come from detours and unexpected stops.

Read More: How to Plan Your Big Lap Itinerary

What’s Life Like on the Road?

The Big Lap isn’t just sightseeing – it’s daily life, lived differently. You’ll still be cooking, cleaning, schooling kids, and doing laundry, but with the bonus of sunsets over the desert or breakfast on the beach.

You’ll meet fellow travellers, share tips around the campfire, and face the occasional challenge – breakdowns, bad weather, or travel fatigue. But that’s part of the adventure.

So, How Do I Start?

  1. Decide how long you can go for.
  2. Choose your setup and tow vehicle.
  3. Set a budget.
  4. Pick your start date and direction.
  5. Plan the first leg, then stay flexible.

Final Word

The Big Lap isn’t about rushing around Australia or doing it “the right way.” It’s about creating your own adventure, at your own pace. Whether you take six months or three years, stick to the highway or dive deep into the Outback, the Big Lap is about freedom, discovery, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to plan your trip? Start with our Complete Novice Guide to Planning Your Big Lap.