red rocks in a canyon with views to the ocean

The Best Western Australia Road Trips

Are you looking for the best Western Australis road trips? As locals, we’ve travelled extensively throughout WA and I want to share with you some of our favourites.

Western Australia Road Trip Inspiration

Here are some of the best Western Australia road trips we have taken:

Western Australia road trips we’ve yet to do are from Broome to Darwin via the Gibb River Road and Perth to Kalgoorlie.

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

Tips for a Western Australia Road Trip

  • Don’t drive tired. If you feel sleepy, pull over at one of the many rest stops on the side of the road. Try to share the driving and plan to travel no longer than eight to ten hours a day.
  • Check weather forecasts for your departure and destination cities, as well as any areas you plan to visit along the way.
  • Have at least 6 litres of water per person.
  • Pack non-perishable food.
  • Be prepared that you may lose the radio signal in some parts, so bring some music with you.
  • Know your route and research the best places to stop along the way. Our Western Australia travel guides provide great advice on which hotels, restaurants and attractions to visit.
  • Check for road closures which can be closed due to several factors, including bush fires.
  • If you are towing a caravan, trailer, or boat ensure you know the legal load limit for your vehicle and that it is well secured. The maximum speed limit for a vehicle towing a trailer or caravan is 100 kmph, unless otherwise signposted.
  • Buy a Telstra SIM card as their regional coverage is the best.
  • Road trains (large trucks with up to four carriages) can be as long as 60m so extreme care must be taken if overtaking.
  • Keep up to date with emergency advice on the WA Emergency site.
  • The open road speed limit is 110 km per hour and 50 km per hour in built up areas. However, pay attention to the signs as they often change.
  • It is illegal to touch your mobile phone while driving and all passengers must wear a seatbelt.
  • It is highly recommended to have a GPS in order to avoid getting lost or download a mapping app like Avenza that provides a map even when you are out of range.
  • Watch out for wildlife when driving, especially around dawn and dusk (serious accidents occur due to collisions with kangaroos, cows, and other animals).
  • Stop at roadhouses for a break and stretch.
  • Ensure you have enough fuel as some service stations are 100 – 300 km apart and some may be out of fuel. Also keep in mind that most of them do not open 24 hours.
  • If you break down, stay with your vehicle and conserve water and food. Consider joining a roadside assistance program.
  • Note a list of emergency contacts before you leave.
  • Keep valuables out of sight.
  • Be aware of crocodile dangers in Australia’s North West.
  • Road trip games, such as “I Spy” or trivia questions, can add a fun and interactive element to the journey.

With these considerations in mind, you should be able to enjoy a safe, fun, and memorable Western Australia road trip.

If you’re not familiar with the state, these Western Australia region guides will help you decide what part of WA you want to see the most.