With the summer holidays here, Australians are easing after a challenging year, but some families are considering more permanent changes.

As COVID-19 continues to cause disruption, many are tempted to start 2021 with a long hiatus and embark on an adventure.

This is reflected in the four-wheel drive already gaining premium prices in some states; there have been months of waiting for new caravans across Australia, as regional centers report their longest tourist season in recent memory.

Whether you’re behind Bourke or sailing across the Plains of Nullarbor, it’s important to stay on top of each state. latest travel rules.

For those wishing to take part in the exodus, there are a few important things to remember.

Pay for the trip

Making the decision to leave is the hardest part of any trip, according to Mandy Farabegoli, who spent two years on the road with her family.

After a life-changing experience, she was inspired to start the Traveling Australia With Kids website to help other families make the transition.

“Once you make that decision, everything will be fine,” he said.

After some personal hardships last year, Natasha Skinner’s family realized that life was too short to postpone their dream journey.

While the wildfires and COVID-19 created chaos along the way, they made unforgettable memories together.

Finding out how to fund travel around Australia is the first and foremost step.

Mandy said that the average family can expect to pay around $ 1,000 a week on the road – where the biggest cost is usually fuel.

Some people decide to sell their house and possessions for a clean break, while others prefer the security of renting out their property, which also provides a useful income.

Caravans, camper trailers or tents?

A new caravan can easily cost over $ 70,000 but if maintained will hold its value for resale, while an older used unit can be purchased for under $ 10,000.

There are also a number of peer-to-peer groups that allow families to rent caravans or camper trailers from private owners.

Tents are a fraction of the price but can be a hassle to set up and pack every few days.

Whichever option you choose, try before buying or renting is important.

Four-wheel drive is also a solid investment and provides freedom to explore more remote areas, even if inexperienced drivers must complete a crane course.

Working on a budget is essential, says Mandy, but with so many options for getting from A to B, those with tight wallets can still have a great trip.

Being frugal helps

Spending tens of thousands of dollars before leaving the driveway may seem a little overwhelming, but there are many ways to save, and even make money, once you’re on your way.

Finding free campsites via phone apps like WikiCamps Australia will help keep accommodation costs down – although some still expect a few dollars in donations.

Hitting the National Parks for bushwalks and swapping cafe lattes for thermos coffee is an obvious way to cut back on everyday expenses.

Casual work is a great way to make a little money and meet new people, according to Mandy, who recommends calling ahead for opportunities before arriving in town.

Those who know their way around the toolbox can find maintenance work, and there is often a reception area available.

Anyone with an Alcohol Responsible Service certificate can also be behind the bar, and there’s even fruit picking for fitter travelers.

Natasha says her family can save hundreds through caravan park memberships and club discounts.

Following these tips, he says, will help keep everyday expenses down and allow you to occasionally shop for something special, like snorkeling with a whale shark or a scenic flight over Kakadu.

Homeschooling along the way

One of the biggest concerns of parents is how to educate their children outside the classroom.

Andrew Smith of Education Services Australia (ESA) says there are many ways to get children to learn away from school, and the resources have never been better.

The number of people accessing this resource, Smith said, has increased by more than 200 percent over the past 12 months.

Those planning to be away for more than one year can apply for homeschooling through the state or territory education department, which includes completion of a training and assessment program.

Some schools may grant permission for extended leave and allow students to keep in touch with teachers to track their progress through the curriculum.

Parents can also use ESA’s distance learning resources such as Scootle, which is developed and supported by the country’s education minister.

For her trips, Mandy conducts two to three hour lessons each day, preferably in the morning, but is still worried about her children being left behind.

However, he was very surprised when they returned home.

“My middle son is returning to the academic extension program,” said Ms Farabegoli.

Those with similar problems can now use online programs to check how their children are progressing in key areas such as phonics and numeracy.

Go with the flow

Learning to live close to loved ones often requires adjustment.

Whether it’s taking up a hobby or taking a walk alone, Natasha recommends providing a place for rest time, especially for adults.

For many people, pets are an indispensable part of the family, but bringing them around will require additional planning.

National Parks will be largely off limits, and they will make finding accommodation more difficult, but it can be done.

Many urge travelers to seriously consider whether the extra effort to bring a furry friend is worth it.

She says life on the road does take a job, but it’s important to enjoy quality family time before it passes.

“My kids are now teenagers and they are very close, I alluded to when we spent time together on the road.”