Compare Campervan

Campervan vs. Coach Travel

Coach Travel vs. Campervan

Planning an epic road trip throughout Australia? Whether you’re heading up the East Coast or west into the Outback, choosing between driving a campervan or jumping on a Greyhound can depend on lots of things, like budget, travel style, and priorities.

On the one hand, we’ll admit that #vanlife does look pretty sweet… but a Whimit travel pass is stress-free and better for the environment – not to mention heaps cheaper!

Greyhound vs Campervan comparison

We’ve put together this handy guide to break down the key differences between campervans and Greyhounds. Whether you’re on a tight budget, seeking the ultimate adventure, or want to tread lightly and reduce your impact on the environment, we’re here to help you decide how best to hit the road and feel the heart of Australia.

TRAVEL COMPARISON (BETWEEN SYDNEY <> CAIRNS)

Campervan vs Coach Travel comparison (between Sydney <> CAIRNS)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is it cheaper to travel by bus or campervan?

Hiring a campervan in Australia for 30 days ranges from $1,800–$10,000+, depending on size and features. That’s not including insurance, surcharges for underage drivers (usually 25), or upfront safety deposits. Depending on your itinerary, you might also be charged extra if you’re going in one direction and not returning the van to the same location. Then there’s road tolls, parking fees, the possibility of speeding fines… the list goes on!

Then you need to factor in the cost of fuel. The distance from Sydney to Cairns is 2,636km if you take the shortest and most direct route possible, but if you’re travelling in a van you’re likely to take a more scenic path, right? So let’s call it 3,500km. Based on average campervan fuel consumption rates, you’re looking at about 455L all up… at an average of $2.00 per litre at the pumps = $910 on fuel. Add that to the rental costs and suddenly your 30-day #vanlife will set you back at least $2,710.

Comparatively, a 30-day East Coast Whimit travel pass costs $475, which is about HALF what you could expect to pay on fuel alone for a campervan. Jumping on a Greyhound could save you $2,235 – what else could you do with that extra cash?

But won’t I save money on accommodation with a campervan?

True, you do get to sleep in the van! However, there aren’t many (legal) free camping options in Australia, with significant differences in rules in each state/territory and local council, so you’ll have to do a lot of research to avoid hefty fines. That means you’ll still need to book and pay for campsites at national parks, state forests, and campgrounds… and trust us when we say some of those spots can get pretty expensive, especially in popular locations during peak seasons.

Greyhound overnight buses are another great way to save money on accommodation and spend more quality time at each destination. You’ll enjoy comfortable leather seats, free WiFi, in-seat USB charge points, and onboard restrooms. Everything you need to get a great night’s sleep and arrive at the next place rested, refreshed, and ready for an adventure!

Is it more convenient to travel by bus or campervan?

Sure, hiring a campervan gives you the freedom to drive wherever you want, whenever you want. You can change your plans on the fly, have full control over where you stop, eat and sleep, and venture to some of the more remote and off-the-beaten track destinations. Your vehicle is also your accommodation, meaning you don’t even have to carry your stuff! But – when your vehicle is also your accommodation, you need to get used to living in a small space. You’ll also be responsible for setting up camp (and emptying the toilet at dump points).

Jumping on a Greyhound offers just as much convenience, especially since you’ll be able to kick back and relax with no driving – or navigation – responsibilities. Travelling on Australia’s largest and only national coach network will get you to more than 180 stops in every mainland state and territory (likely the exact same places you’d visit with a van anyway). It’s also just as flexible – jump online to manage your Whimit travel pass and change your itinerary as much as you like! Yes, you’re limited to our set routes and timetables, but honestly? Sometimes having a fixed schedule is what you need when you’re overstimulated and sick of making decisions!

Is it safer to travel by bus or campervan?

A lot of people underestimate just how BIG Australia is, with very long stretches of road between locations.

Hiring a campervan requires driving experience, a full driver licence, and is often limited to people aged 21 years and above. You’ll also need to be comfortable driving on the left-hand side of the road and familiar with Australian road rules, which vary by state and territory. Driving a van is quite different to driving a car (especially when it comes to parking!) – and don’t forget navigation and risk of breakdowns. You’ll also need to consider your personal safety when camping in remote areas, especially if you’re travelling solo. Driver fatigue is the biggest safety consideration – do you really want to have to drive after a big day of learning to surf?

Greyhound coach captains are professional, experienced drivers who know Australia’s roads like the back of their hands. Safety is our core value, with our fleet and drivers subject to multiple national and state/territory regulations – so you can sit back and relax knowing you’re in safe hands. No need to navigate unfamiliar roads or be surprised by unexpected wildlife darting out in front of you! All Greyhounds are fitted with CCTV for the safety of all onboard. Plus, with our online Coach Tracker, you’ll always know exactly where you are (that’ll keep Mum happy).

Is travelling in a campervan more comfortable than a bus?

Travelling in a campervan comes with most of the creature comforts of home – it is your accommodation, after all! You can blast your own music, have full control over the AC settings, and there’s a whole kitchen (and sometimes bathroom) in the back. However – you can’t exactly just pop to the fridge or the toilet while you’re driving! You’ll also have to use your own data if you want internet access to stream your show. But most importantly – you can’t have a nap if you’re in the driver’s seat!

Travelling on a Greyhound is a LOT fancier than your council bus back home. Our comfy leather seats recline further and have more legroom than most planes! Plus you’ll get free WiFi and USB charge points on every seat, meaning you can stay connected and charged up. Of course we have air conditioning to keep you cool, plus onboard toilets just in case. Add in some reading lights and you’re all set! Top it all off with panoramic windows to take in those gorgeous views… but don’t worry, there’s also curtains to block the harsh Aussie sun (can’t use those while driving a van!)

Is a campervan or bus better for the environment?

There’s no question about it – coaches are the most environmentally friendly form of long-distance travel.

If you were to drive a car between Sydney and Melbourne by yourself, the greenhouse impacts would be pretty much the same as flying! Carbon emissions are even higher for campervans due to their larger size and lower fuel efficiency, not to mention extra energy requirements for things like fridges and heaters. You also need to consider your impact on the environment at campsites, including responsible waste management (yes, that includes the toilet) and following the ‘leave no trace’ principle.

Comparatively, travelling on a Greyhound produces between five and 10 times fewer carbon emissions per passenger. Coaches have the lowest average emissions per seat kilometre of all transport modes on land, with their CO2 emissions estimated to be less than 1% of total tourism-related emissions! Learn more here.

Aren’t you just telling me buses are better because you’re a bus company?

Don’t just take our word for it! Check out this blog post from Daniel and Gabriella from @restlesspair, who have travelled Australia by both van AND Greyhound!


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