Australia is big, but EV road trips are now very doable on most major routes. The trick is planning: knowing where the fast chargers are, charging overnight whenever you can, and carrying a backup for the places the networks have not reached yet.
Know the networks
Several public fast-charging networks operate across Australia, including Chargefox, Evie Networks, Tesla Superchargers (many now open to other EVs), AmpCharge, BP Pulse and state networks such as Queensland’s Electric Super Highway and the WA EV Network. Coverage changes quickly, so check before you go.
Use a route planner
- A Better Route Planner (ABRP) plans stops for your specific car, accounting for speed, elevation and weather.
- PlugShare shows user-reviewed chargers, including slower destination chargers at hotels and wineries, with recent check-ins.
- Network apps show live availability and pricing. Set up accounts before you leave.
Plan to arrive with a buffer
Aim to arrive at each charger with at least 15–20% battery. Fast chargers can be busy or out of service, and headwinds, heat, towing and highway speeds all use more energy than the official range suggests.
Charge overnight wherever you sleep
Overnight charging is the secret weapon of EV travel. Ask your accommodation about charging when you book. Many motels, farm stays and caravan parks will let you plug in, sometimes for a small fee. A few hours on a 10A or 15A outlet adds 100–230 km, so you leave each morning with more range and spend less time at fast chargers. See charging at caravan parks and charging at a holiday rental.
Pack a backup
A certified portable charger turns almost any suitable outlet into a charging stop. With the right adapter it works on a normal 10A power point, a 15A outlet in a shed, or three-phase on a farm. Our chargers pack into a hard carry case and weigh about 4 kg.
- Bring the adapters you might need, and set the charger to match the outlet
- Never use extension leads
- Always ask the property owner first
Road trip checklist
- Plan the route in ABRP and check stops in PlugShare
- Install and test network apps and payment
- Book accommodation that allows charging
- Pack your portable charger, adapters and Type 2 cable cap
- Leave each stop with a comfortable buffer
Network details change often. Check current coverage before you travel. Sources: Evee: Australia EV charging networks 2026, NRMA EV charging stations.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive an EV across Australia?
Yes, many people have, but remote stretches need careful planning and sometimes overnight charging from ordinary outlets.
How long does a fast-charging stop take?
Often 20–40 minutes to add a useful amount of range, depending on the car and charger.
Is a portable charger worth taking on a road trip?
Yes. It is your backup when fast chargers are busy or absent, and lets you charge overnight at accommodation.
Key takeaways
- Plan with ABRP and check stops in PlugShare
- Arrive at each charger with a 15–20% buffer
- Charge overnight at accommodation whenever possible
- Carry a certified portable charger and the right adapters as backup