How to Road Trip on a Backpacker Budget: The $1/Day Travel Hack

Backpacking is all about stretching your budget while soaking up unforgettable experiences. But what if you could explore entire countries not on a bus or a train but behind the wheel of your own campervan, RV or car for as little as $1 a day? With relocation vehicle rentals, that’s not just possible — it’s happening right now. In this blog, we’ll show you how relocation travel works, why it’s perfect for backpackers, and how to find the best deals with Imoova.

Carl W

Relocation Specialist

24 Jul

3 min read

tips

How to Road Trip on a Backpacker Budget: The $1 Travel Hack

💰 Why It's Perfect for Backpackers

Relocation rentals check every box for budget travellers:

✅ Insanely Cheap Rates

You’ll typically pay just $1/day

✅ Fuel Allowances

Many relocations include a fuel reimbursement (e.g., $250), helping you offset driving costs.

✅ No One-Way Fees

Forget the $200+ one-way drop fees with traditional rentals.

✅ Free Accommodation (with campervans)

Campervan & motorhome relocations double as your accommodation. Park legally and sleep comfortably—no hostels or tents required.

🧭 What’s the Catch?

As amazing as they are, relocation rentals do come with a few trade-offs:

Time Limit: You’re usually given a fixed number of days to complete the trip, although you can often add on extra days at a higher cost
Fixed Route: You must drive the vehicle from Point A to Point B as specified.
Limited Availability: Deals are posted based on fleet logistics, so spontaneity is key.

But for backpackers who can pack up and go on short notice? It’s the perfect fit.

🗺️ Example: Budget Road Trip with Imoova

Route: Cairns to Brisbane (1,700 km)
Vehicle: 2-berth campervan
Duration: 6 days
Cost: $1/day = $6 total
Fuel Allowance: $250
Accommodation: Built-in (save on hostels)

Total travel cost: Less than $50 for a 6-day journey with accommodation included.

Compare that to taking public transport or booking multiple nights in hostels and it’s easy to see why more backpackers are choosing to relocate campervans.

🎒 Tips for First-Time Backpacker Drivers

Be Flexible: Deals appear and disappear fast—check Imoova regularly as they upload new listings multiple times daily.

Pack Smart: You're on the move, so keep things light and essential.

Plan Your Stops: You may only have a few days, so prioritise scenic spots and rest areas but also leave a bit of room for spontaneity!

Check What’s Included: Read deal details carefully—some offer free insurance, bedding, or kitchen kits.

License: If you're not from an English speaking country make sure you have an International Drivers Permit (IDP).

🌍 Why It’s More Than Just Cheap Travel

Yes, you’ll save heaps of money—but relocation travel offers more than that:

See more of the country than trains or planes allow
Take the road less traveled—literally
Meet other travellers doing the same thing

It’s not just transport—it’s an experience.

🔑 Final Thoughts: Hit the Road, Not Your Wallet

If you’re a backpacker with a flexible itinerary and a thirst for adventure, relocation rentals are the smartest way to explore. You'll spend less, see more, and enjoy the freedom of the open road without the price tag that usually comes with it.