The Aussie road trips that have soared in popularity since last year
Maybe we're biased, but Australia has to be one of the best countries in the world for road tripping.
We've got it all: winding coastal roads, dusty highways that cut through the Outback, routes with stunning beaches every few kilometres, and inland journeys traversing ancient rainforests.
And with such a vast country, the options are endless, whether you want a day trip, a week-long getaway, or an adventure that spans months (or years!).
But which to choose?
Car insurance experts at ROLLiN' have analysed some of Australia's most iconic road trips, and found the ones which have seen a huge increase in searches since last year.
Read through to see which ones made the cut...
5. Cape to Cape, WA
This road trip has seen a 22 per cent increase in searches in just the last year.
Found just south of Perth in the Margaret River region, it travels from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, and can easily be done in a day.
Of course, it could be extended with longer stops for a more laid-back journey.
After starting at the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, the route will take you past beaches and into wine country - the perfect place to stop for lunch, some beer or cider, and some locally-made cheese and chocolate.
If you're really feeling adventurous, you can do the Cape to Cape on foot. A multi-day walking trail spans the entire route, and at 128km long, it is usually done in five to eight days. There's camping and other lodging options along the way.
4. Gibb River Road, WA
The Gibb River Road is a remote, rugged track stretching about 660 km through the heart of the Kimberley region.
Originally built as a cattle route in the 1960s, it's now a bucket-list destination for 4WD enthusiasts and adventurous travellers keen to explore the dramatic landscapes of the northwest.
This isn't just any old road trip that you can do in your Holden Barina, though.
You'll absolutely need a high-clearance 4WD to navigate the rough terrain. It can only be done between May and October - the road is impassable in the wet season due to flooding.
The road starts at Derby in the west and stretches to Kununurra or Wyndham in the east.
A trip along the Gibb River Road typically takes one to two weeks, depending on your travel style and how much exploring you want to do.
Along the way, you can set up camp or book a night's accomodation at a station. There are also a few luxury lodges if you like the finer things in life.
3. South West Edge, WA
Yet another Western Australian road trip to make the list, this one is a doozy.
It can be done as a loop or one-way journey, from Perth to Esperance. The road hugs the coastline with a few inland detours, taking in pristine beaches, towering forests, world-class wine regions, and dramatic cliffs.
It's perfect for travellers looking to combine natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and gourmet experiences.
A 1200km, twelve-day trip, all the roads are fully sealed, making it an easy drive no matter your vehicle.
Heading back to Perth, you can take the inland road via Kalgoorlie, the Goldfields, or Wave Rock, for the full Outback experience.
If you're not in a campervan, lodgings range from luxury retreats to budget motels and campgrounds.
It's beautiful year-round, but we recommend going in autumn (March to May) for great weather and fewer crowds.
Just make sure you pack your swimmers and your hiking boots - because there will be a lot of great opportunities to use both!
