Australia is one of the best countries in the world for road trips. From the endless highways of the Outback to the winding coastal roads of the Great Ocean Road, driving is part of the travel experience. But whether you are a backpacker, a local driver, or someone planning a cross-country adventure, one question always comes first: how much will the trip cost?
That’s where a fuel cost calculator becomes essential. By entering your route, your car’s fuel consumption, and the current petrol price, you can quickly estimate your travel expenses. This helps you plan your budget, decide whether to carpool, or even explore electric alternatives.
Fuel prices in Australia are not fixed—they vary depending on the state, city, and even the day of the week. On average in 2025, petrol prices range between $1.90 and $2.30 AUD per litre, with Sydney and Melbourne often slightly cheaper than rural areas.
👉 For backpackers driving long distances, these differences add up. A road trip from Sydney to Brisbane can cost around $100–$140 AUD in fuel, while a cross-country journey from Sydney to Perth may easily exceed $500 AUD.
Rooride’s fuel calculator is built for travelers:
This simple tool helps you avoid surprises and makes budgeting easier—perfect for backpackers who need to manage every dollar.
Australia is slowly embracing electric vehicles (EVs). While petrol remains dominant, more travelers are beginning to ask: Is it cheaper to drive electric on a road trip?
The cost of charging an EV depends on where and how you charge:
👉 Example: A Tesla Model 3 with a 60 kWh battery can cost around $15–$25 AUD for a full charge at home, which gives around 400 km of range. That’s significantly cheaper than petrol for the same distance.
One of the challenges for EV owners in Australia is the charging network. While cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have plenty of charging stations, rural and Outback areas still have limited options.
This is why Rooride is preparing a dedicated page on electric charging stations in Australia, to help travelers plan EV road trips with confidence.
Let’s compare a few popular routes in Australia:
👉 Conclusion: EVs can be much cheaper per kilometre, but petrol vehicles still offer greater flexibility for remote areas.
For many backpackers in Australia, petrol (or charging) is the biggest expense after accommodation. That’s why ridesharing is so popular.
By using Rooride’s carpooling app, you can:
What is the average fuel consumption in Australia?
Most cars average between 6–9L/100 km, while vans and 4WDs can go above 12L/100 km.
Is electric cheaper than petrol in Australia?
Yes, especially if you charge at home or during off-peak hours. However, availability of chargers can be a challenge outside cities.
Are there many EV charging stations in Australia?
The network is expanding quickly, with hundreds of new chargers added every year. A full guide to charging stations in Australia will be available soon on Rooride.
Whether you are driving a petrol car, a van, or an electric vehicle, knowing your travel costs is key. With Rooride’s fuel calculator, you can plan your budget, compare options, and even decide whether to share the ride with others.
🚗 Start your adventure today: try the Rooride Fuel Calculator and join a growing community of backpackers sharing rides across Australia.
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