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Amy Stevenson5 Jul 2020
FEATURE

Road trip holiday booking options for an out of the box experience

It's always a good season to hit the road and explore what Australia has to offer in your own region.

Whether you’re flying solo or with some of your best buds, there’s always one aspect of any mini-getaway that can stress even the most chilled person – making sure the right accommodation is booked.

These days there are more options than ever to help you get organised and book a stay that may be a little more out of the ordinary or off the beaten track than usual. Here are a few booking sites to get your planning started.

The devastating summer bushfires and COVID-19 pandemic have affected communities across the country so there's never been a more important reason to safely visit the towns in your region to support local and in many cases, family businesses. Remember to stick to the government's rules and regulations when it comes to travel, stays and dining. Also keep in mind those social distancing and hand hygiene measures we've come to know well.

Airbnb

Without a doubt, one of the most popular options for anyone heading along the road less travelled. You’d have to be living under a rock to not know about the premise of Airbnb, but in case you’re yet to use it for yourself, everyday people rent out their property – whether it be an entire house or apartment, or just a room – for visitors to enjoy for themselves!

Most places have all your basic amenities, so all you have to bring is some groceries, beverages, and good times with your buds.

Anyone can list their place on Airbnb too, so there’s no limit to being able to find cute hideaways along the coast, in the mountains, city, or in the country. Pricing can depend on whether you want the entire place for your group, or if you’re comfortable hanging out with your hosts in your own private room.

Airbnb also now offers one-of-a-kind activities for guests, which are hosted by locals! Everything from cooking classes, adventure journeys and activities, and even experiences with animals! So not only is your accommodation sorted, so are the times to fill in your days on your getaway.

Riparide

A similar deal to Airbnb, but with a twist! Riparide offers “soul-fulfilling escapes through real adventure stories”, and giving you the opportunity to find unique accommodation, experiences and rides. If you’re ready to unplug from the world, and set off on an adventure that allows you to fill up your soul cup, Riparide is made for you!

Whether it be chasing waterfalls, finding your own cabin in the wild, paddling out for a morning surf or stepping over the edge abseiling down a cliff face, Riparide aims to help you and your friendship gang pursue peaceful, exciting and challenging moments in life, that’ll help “restore balance and bring fulfillment”.

With unique listings across New South Wales and Victoria, there’s plenty to choose from, which will have you chilled out and experiencing the wild side of life in no time at all!

In2thewild

In2thewild is for your tiny holidays, not just in duration but also in physical accommodation size. This site gives you a variety of accommodation options which are a little outside of the box but are sure to give you a unique and memorable stay regadless.

Born out of a need to slow down and disconnect from the demands of the connected and social media heavy modern life, In2thewild allows you and your mates to book off-grid, eco-friendly, sustainable tiny houses that make you feel like you’re a part of the natural landscape.

The properties available to book range from boutique farms, wineries and even ultra-secluded locations in the Aussie bush. According to the website, the Tiny houses can sleep up to 4 people with bedding, linen, towels, and stove, BBQ, a fire pit and even games provided to help get you into the the disconnected zone. Some locations have limited to no mobile coverage at all so be prepared to talk to your mates and take in the natural surroundings.

And of course, there are always traditional options when it comes to booking somewhere to stay for your getaway. Whether it be on the coast, or in a cute country town, there’s never a shortage of motels, hotels, or even pub accommodation to stay at, many of which are locally owned and operated.

So get your family together, start Google mapping your ideal road trip and find your ideal accommodation to make your driving adventure extra special with something outside the norm!

Related: Five of Australia’s quirkiest vehicle-themed accommodation
Related: Where should I go for a socially distanced daytrip when restrictions lift?
Related: Five unique country accommodation stays to check out
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Written byAmy Stevenson
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