​Australia is a road trip paradise, offering an incredible variety of landscapes, activities, and attractions that are perfect for families. From sun-soaked beaches to rugged mountains and lush rainforests, there’s a road trip for every type of family adventure. Whether you’ve got toddlers in tow or teens who love to explore, here are three of the best Australian road trips for families:

1. The Great Ocean Road (Victoria)
Arguably one of the most iconic road trips in Australia, the Great Ocean Road is a must-do for families seeking coastal beauty and outdoor adventure. Stretching over 240 kilometres along the southeastern coast of Australia, this route is dotted with breathtaking viewpoints, pristine beaches, and family-friendly activities.
Highlights for families:

• Twelve Apostles: These dramatic limestone formations are a must-see and are accessible via easily walkable paths. Kids will love the spectacular views and the opportunity to learn about the region’s geology.
• Otway National Park: Take a detour to the lush rainforests of Otway National Park where you can walk among towering trees and visit the Otway Fly Tree Top Adventures for a thrilling canopy walk.
• Apollo Bay and Lorne: Both are charming seaside towns perfect for a family lunch, a swim, or a relaxed walk along the beach.

The Great Ocean Road also has plenty of accommodation options, from beachside campsites to comfortable family-friendly resorts. With its mix of natural beauty and fun attractions, it's an unforgettable family road trip.

2. The Pacific Coast Touring Route (New South Wales and Queensland)
The Pacific Coast Touring Route offers an amazing blend of beaches, rainforests, and wildlife, making it an excellent choice for families looking to explore both urban and natural landscapes. The drive stretches from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef, with plenty of family-friendly stops along the way.
Highlights for families:

• Port Stephens: Ideal for animal lovers, this area is famous for its dolphin-watching cruises and the stunning Tomaree Head Summit Walk, where you’ll get panoramic views of the coastline.
• Coffs Harbour: Known for its beaches and the iconic Big Banana, Coffs Harbour offers both relaxation and fun activities for kids, including the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House and the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve.
• Byron Bay: A laid-back coastal town where you can visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse, go kayaking with dolphins, or just enjoy the beach. Byron Bay also offers plenty of family-friendly cafes and accommodation.

The Pacific Coast Touring Route is a great option for families who love outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic views.

​Once commonly thought of as a stopover or transit destination, Singapore is now definitely known as a fantastic holiday destination in its own right. A clean, safe and affordable city with world class attractions which are easy to access, Singapore is a melting pot of cultures from throughout the region. A great place to visit for a few days or more – there is plenty to see and do, especially for families. See our top picks of things to do for families in Singapore below.
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Universal Studios Singapore
​Located on Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore is the only Universal Studios theme park in the Southeast Asia region. It features 24 rides, shows and attractions in seven separately themed zones. There is something for all the family here. Spend the day; take in a show, enjoy the rides and have some lunch.

​Singapore Zoo
​Whilst there are zoos in many cities in the world, Singapore Zoo is a must see. The beautiful grounds and exhibits and the sheer size and number of animals make this a world class attraction. There is a fantastic wet play area for the kids to cool down and multiple food choices. Take advantage of the 4 parks pass which will give you access to the Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari and River Safari along with your zoo admission. Whilst the park is located a little further out of the city than most attractions, there are good public transport options.

However you are travelling and whoever you are travelling with, Cairns is a destination which really delivers. There is so much variety – rainforests, beaches, tropical islands, green tablelands and of course The Great Barrier Reef – your biggest dilemma will be trying to fit everything in. Here are our five “must do’s” for visiting Cairns.
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1. Hang Out Downtown – just wander around this tropical city and take in the relaxed vibe. Visit Rusty’s Market and pick up some tasty local produce or a unique souvenir, take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade and stop off for something to eat at one of the many bars or restaurants, or explore the boutique shopping on offer – everything is close and easy to get to. ​

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4. Port Douglas – Need we say more! A beautiful destination in itself, Port Douglas is only an hour or so north of Cairns and offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed tropical resort town vibe. Drive yourself and stop off at the many amazing beaches along the way including Palm Cove, Trinity Beach and Ellis Beach. Fantastic scenery and a wonderful place to beach/bar hop!​

5. The Great Barrier Reef – You can’t come this close to the Great Barrier Reef and not visit Australia’s own natural wonder of the world. There are a multitude of options here, whether you want to snorkel, scuba dive, sail, hot air balloon, helicopter or take a glass bottom boat there is a tour and price point for everyone. Make sure you choose a high standard tourism operator and explore this amazing area – you will not be disappointed. 

Whether you are taking your first trip with a child, or have taken many with several children – travelling with children can fill you with anxiety. Our recommendation is always say yes to travel – but maybe with some extra planning. So read on to check out our top tips for travelling with kids below:
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Research
A little time spent researching your destination up front will make a huge difference to your ability to enjoy things when you arrive. It isn’t worth packing a stroller if there aren’t good paved sidewalks at your destination. Does your child need any vaccinations before they travel? Does the villa you have booked have a pool fence? Does your baby need a Visa? Research your destination well before you begin to pack to save yourself time and unnecessary drama when you arrive.

Pack something new for the plane / train / car
An oldy but a goody – pack a new toy, snack, book etc to distract your child whilst travelling to your destination. For babies this could be a new teething ring or toy, for older children this could be a new book, a game or movie downloaded onto the iPad. Save this to be pulled out just when they are getting bored and unsettled – the ultimate distraction for them and sanity saver for you.
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Consider an apartment rather than a hotel room
As great as hotels are for getting away, it is nice to know that when you get to your destination you can stock up a fridge and make some of your own meals, or do some clothes washing mid trip. For this reason, a hotel suite with a kitchenette and laundry or an apartment might be better suited. It doesn’t sound as glamorous, but when you have baby vomit all over every outfit you have brought with you two days into your holiday you will be thankful for the washing machine. Having an apartment or a suite with a bedroom door you can close will also mean that the whole family doesn’t need to go to bed when it is lights out for the 5 year old.

Take enough nappies and baby food
Whilst usually we would always advise not to overpack - this is one exception. Pack all the baby milk formula, baby food and nappies you may need to take with you. Don’t rely on picking some up at your destination – its never fun to run around at 2am in a strange city looking for the right sized nappies. You can always pick up other items at your destination – but you don’t want to mess with these essentials. If you are travelling overseas you may also want to take sterilizing tablets and any basic medication your child may need during the trip.

Give Yourself Time!
Don’t make things more stressful than they need to be by not giving yourself plenty of time to get places. Toddlers (and more often than not – teenagers) will always need to go to the bathroom right as you are ready to leave. Sure, you can rush everyone along, but it is just going to increase the stress levels for everyone. Give yourself enough time to get places, for transit and enough downtime in between sightseeing to relax.
 
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