Surviving Australia’s Wet Season: Tips for Road Trippers

A standard car rental is fine for cities and sealed highways, but if you’re exploring the Top End, Queensland tropics, or the Kimberley, consider a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD.

Floods and road closures can happen fast. Check:

• Local state road websites

• Park alerts

• Seasonal closure notices

Don’t rely on Google Maps as it won’t warn you about floodways.

If you see water across the road:
“If it’s flooded, forget it.”
Fast-moving water can sweep vehicles away, even 4WDs. Depending on where in the country you are, waters may be croc infested.

This goes for all year round, but wildlife is especially active after rain. As cute as they are, kangaroos, pigs, wallabies, and cattle can quickly become hazards.

• 5–10 litres of water

• Snacks

• First-aid kit

• Power bank

• Mosquito repellent (essential in the wet!)

If roads close unexpectedly, you may have to reroute or stay put. Use rentals and relocations that allow flexible pickup/drop times.

Wet season can be the cheapest time for travel. Prices drop dramatically, less tourists are around and Imoova’s $1/day rentals are often plentiful as rental companies move cars south for the dry season.