Rental Car Travel

Most major car rental companies have offices in Brisbane, including Avis, Thrifty, Budget, and Hertz. Four-wheel-drive vehicles, motor homes, and camper vans (sleeping two to six people) are available from Britz, Maui Rentals, and KEA Campers. If you're heading north along the coast or northwest into the bush, you can rent in Brisbane and drop off in Cairns or other towns. One-way rental fees usually apply.

Brisbane is 1,002 km (621 miles) from Sydney, a 12-hour drive along the Pacific Highway (Highway 1). Another route follows Highway 1 to Newcastle, then heads inland on the New England Highway (Highway 15). Either drive can be made in a long day, although two days or more are recommended for ample time to rest and sightsee.

Rental Cars

Britz Australia Campervan Hire and Car Rentals. 21 Industry Ct., Eagle Farm, Brisbane, Queensland, 4009. 07/3868--1248; 1300/738087​​​; www.britz.com.au.

KEA Campers. 348 Nudgee Rd., Eagle Farm, Brisbane, Queensland, 4011. 07/3868--4500; 1800/664825; aurentals.keacampers.com.

Maui Australia Motorhome Rentals and Car Hire. 21 Industry Ct., Eagle Farm, Brisbane, Queensland, 4009. 03/8398--8829; 1800/827821; www.maui.com.au.