After years of caravan travel around Australia, these are the mistakes I see over and over from first-timers heading out on the big lap.

1. Booking only powered sites

Yes, power is nice. But some of the best spots in Australia are free camps and national parks with no hookups. Invest in a decent solar setup and a lithium battery — you'll save thousands and see places most tourists never find.

2. Skipping the Kimberley or the Top End because "it's too remote"

These are the highlights, not the side quests. Plan your timing around the dry season (May–October) and you'll have the roads mostly to yourself.

3. Not checking caravan park reviews before booking

A "4-star park" on the website can mean very different things. WikiCamps and Camps Australia Wide are your best friends. Read the recent reviews, not just the star rating.

4. Packing too much stuff

You don't need three sets of pots, a portable pizza oven, and a kayak. Weight kills fuel economy and puts stress on your van. Pack for the first month, then buy what you actually need along the way.

5. Rushing the trip

The big lap isn't a race. The people who enjoy it most are the ones who slow down, stay a few extra nights when a place feels right, and let the road decide the schedule.

I write about stuff like this every week in the Caravan Insider newsletter — campsite guides, gear that's actually worth buying, route plans, and stories from the road. If you're planning (or already on) the big lap, come join us.