Summer road trips sound appealing and offer many advantages in Australia; however, if you plan to travel with your pet (which you can do in a Campervan), then being cooped up in a van is not always easy. Winter offers a different kind of road trip.

There are usually fewer crowds, cooler walking conditions, and more space to slow down. Beaches and regional towns also feel calmer, which means more space for you and your pet to roam.

This blog covers the 7 best winter pet-friendly destinations in Australia that you can enjoy with your pet(s), and once the destination starts to take shape, the next step is finding a campervan that suits your route. That is where Campervan Rental Shop can help.

As a traveller, we encourage you to compare campervan hire options across Australia on our website. From some of the cheapest campervans available, to luxury options, we can help you, and if you have a dog or cat, tell our Chatbot when you ask about campervans right for you. We will help you find a vehicle perfectly suited for you and your pets.

1. Sunshine Coast, Queensland

Queensland is a great holiday destination in winter as it has a milder climate than much of the rest of Australia. Consider basing your trip around areas such as Noosa, Coolum, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Caloundra, or the hinterland towns. This is a good route for you if your pets enjoy being part of the day, from morning walks to relaxed afternoons at an outdoor café.

2. Hervey Bay, Queensland

Look into Torquay, Scarness, Point Vernon, Urangan, or Burrum Heads as possible bases. These areas work well for pets because the pace is gentler, the coastline is accessible, and there are plenty of simple outdoor stops to build the day around.

This is a lovely choice for older dogs, nervous pets, or travellers who want a quieter winter escape.

3. Northern New South Wales Coast

A route through Byron Bay, Ballina, Evans Head, Yamba, Nambucca Heads, or Coffs Harbour gives pet owners plenty of towns to research without committing to one fixed style of trip. It is especially useful for travellers who want flexibility and do not want every stop to feel the same.

4. Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast, NSW

This region has a strong holiday park culture, plenty of coastal towns, and a good mix of beaches, rivers, and relaxed walking spots.

Look into areas such as Port Macquarie, North Haven, Laurieton, South West Rocks, Crescent Head, or Harrington.

5. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

For pet-friendly planning, look into Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne, Apollo Bay, Marengo, Port Campbell, Warrnambool, or Port Fairy. The key here is to plan carefully around national park boundaries and beach restrictions, because some of the most famous natural areas may not be suitable for dogs.

6. Barossa Valley and Adelaide Hills, South Australia

The Barossa Valley and Adelaide Hills are better suited to travellers who want country towns, regional food, open-air venues, and gentle walks. It is also cooler during winter than Queensland, so make sure you rug up. On-board showers could be something you want to ask us about to save cold dashes to the camp ground facilities. 

Research Tanunda, Nuriootpa, Angaston, Hahndorf, Mount Barker, Stirling, or Lobethal for possible stops. 

7. Margaret River Region, Western Australia

Margaret River works well for travellers who want the winter road trip to feel scenic and a little indulgent. Look into Busselton, Dunsborough, Yallingup, Cowaramup, Margaret River, Augusta, or Prevelly. These towns give travellers different ways to shape the trip, from beach walks to food stops to cosy nights parked up after a day of exploring.

Make the Campervan Comfortable for Winter

Winter travel feels much better when the campervan is set up with your pet in mind. Think about where they will sleep, how you will keep them warm, and how you will handle wet paws after walks or beach stops. A few simple things can make the trip easier for both of you.

• Warm bedding or a familiar blanket
• Extra towels for wet paws and fur
• A pet jacket for short-haired or older dogs
• Pet wipes for muddy stops
• A waterproof lead or harness
• A spare dry collar
• Food and water bowls
• Poop bags
• Medication and vaccination records
• A favourite toy or chew

Where possible, choose powered campsites during colder parts of the trip. This can make evenings more comfortable and help keep the campervan easier to manage in winter conditions.

Find a Campervan for a Pet-Friendly Winter Road Trip

Planning a winter trip with a pet can bring up a few extra questions, and that is okay. 

The easiest place to start is with the Campervan Rental Shop chatbot. It will help suggest campervans based on your trip requirements. From there, you can request a quote from our team. We’ll help you look at suitable options, share road trip advice where needed, and work to secure the best price possible.

With over 15 years of campervan rental experience and friendly support available 7 days a week, you can ask us anything about your trip.

Book your campervan today and start planning a winter road trip with your pet here.