Compare Campervan Rentals in Darwin

Plan your campervan rental holiday in Darwin with ease. Camper Champ helps you find the best campervan hire rates in Darwin with deals from Australia's most trusted RV rental companies.

Darwin is a great choice if you're looking for an adventurous campervan rental holiday destination. Situated at the Top End of Australia's Northern Territory, Darwin is home to stunning scenery and is a gateway to some of Australia's most iconic attractions. A campervan rental from Darwin is the best way to explore the lush rainforests, rugged mountain ranges, and pristine white beaches.

There's plenty to see and do in this tropical paradise, making it a must-see on any traveler's wishlist. What's more, thanks to its location on the Stuart Highway, Darwin is the perfect base for exploring Australia's Red Centre and Outback. You can save money and time with a one-way cheap camper to cover these long distances or take your time with a return trip in a luxury motorhome rental from Darwin.

Camper Champ is your premier destination for campervan, motorhome, and 4x4 camper rental in Darwin. Through our extensive comparison wizard, you can compare brands and dozens of features, find a pickup spot, and save massive discounts in one easy process.

We compare over a dozen Northern Territory campervan rental brands to bring you the best deals to match your needs and help you find the right vehicle for your trip. Search from cheap campervans to luxury motorhome rentals in one easy step.

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Popular Campervans in Darwin

Maui Platinum Beach

Platinum Beach

Maui

Automatic
Apollo Euro Deluxe 6

Euro Deluxe 6

Apollo

Automatic
Apollo HiTop

HiTop

Apollo

Automatic
Apollo Trailfinder Camper

Trailfinder 4WD Camper

Apollo

Manual
Britz 2-Berth Hitop

2-Berth Hitop

Britz

Automatic
Britz 4-Berth Explorer

4-Berth Explorer

Britz

Automatic
Britz Scout 4WD

Scout 4WD Camper

Britz

Automatic
Maui Spirit 2 T/S Ultima

Spirit 2 T/S Ultima

Maui

Automatic
Travellers Auto Barn Hi5 Camper - (HIFI)

Hi5 Camper - (HIFI)

Travellers Auto Barn

Automatic
Britz Safari Landcruiser 4WD

Safari Landcruiser 4WD

Britz

Manual
Cheapa Campa 4WD Camper

4WD Camper

Cheapa Campa

Manual
Cheapa Campa Cheapa Endeavour

Cheapa Endeavour

Cheapa Campa

Automatic
Apollo HiTop

HiTop

Apollo

Britz 2-Berth Hitop

2-Berth Hitop

Britz

Cheapa Campa Cheapa Endeavour

Cheapa Endeavour

Cheapa Campa

Mighty 2-Berth Highball

2-Berth Highball

Mighty

Maui Platinum Beach

Platinum Beach

Maui

Apollo Euro Deluxe 6

Euro Deluxe 6

Apollo

Mighty 6-Berth Big Six

6-Berth Big Six

Mighty

Britz 6-Berth Frontier

6-Berth Frontier

Britz

Apollo Trailfinder Camper

Trailfinder 4WD Camper

Apollo

Britz Scout 4WD

Scout 4WD Camper

Britz

Britz Safari Landcruiser 4WD

Safari Landcruiser 4WD

Britz

Cheapa Campa 4WD Camper

4WD Camper

Cheapa Campa

Cheapa Campa Cheapa Trailfinder

Cheapa Trailfinder 4x4

Cheapa Campa

Britz Outback 4WD

Outback 4WD Camper

Britz

Not all vehicles may be available. Use the search tool to check availability for your travel dates.

4WD Camper Rental in Darwin

Do you need a 4WD camper to explore Darwin?

A 4WD is not required to explore the wonders of the great outback. In fact, 95% of the Northern Territory's attractions are accessible by 2WD vehicles, such as motorhomes and campervans, because of the extensive network of sealed highways. Motorhomes and campervans must strictly adhere to driving only on sealed roads.

If you are new to campervanning, visiting Darwin for the first time or travelling with family, we recommend using a motorhome or campervan. Getting around this way provides more flexibility.

Are there any restrictions on where you can take a 4WD camper rental in Darwin?

Generally, 4WD campers can only be driven on recognised sealed tracks. However, it is possible to request exceptions be made for some areas. Permission must be granted in advance, especially for any off-road areas.

In addition to unsealed roads, companies may restrict certain roads or trails with a reputation for being rough or rugged. If you take your vehicle into a restricted area, you will be liable for all damages and, in some cases, will also have to pay a fine.

If unsure about a particular area, it’s best to contact the rental company in advance.

Is campervan hire with unlimited mileage available in Darwin?

For 4WD vehicles, a daily mileage allowance usually applies (around 300 km). After that, additional fees will apply.

The comparison tool will show which vehicles have unlimited kilometres and limited free mileage. Consult the rental agreement of the supplier for further details.

How does a rooftop tent work?

Some 4WD campers are equipped with a roof tent and self-inflating sleeping mats. This means that the vehicle doesn't have sleeping space inside. Instead, a tent is mounted on top of the campervan, which then can be set up for overnight camping.

For example the Britz Safari 4WD Camper (based on a Toyota Landcruiser) is mounted with a double-bed rooftop tent. The tent also has an annex with space for up to three more persons.

Other 4x4 campervan rental models have a pop up roof (pop-top campers) allowing for beds to located within the motorhome itself.

Darwin Airport Campervan Hire

Can I hire a campervan at Darwin Airport?

While there are no campervan rentals directly at the terminal at Darwin Airport, there are several depots within a few kilometres. Some suppliers offer a complimentary shuttle with your rental, and the other depots are easily accessible by taxi or Uber.

The Self-drive Holiday in Darwin

It’s not just about the destination. A campervan holiday is a perfect way to really see Australia. You have the freedom to go where you want, when you want and immerse yourself in what this amazing country has to offer. Here at Camper Champ, we offer a wide range of self-drive campervan rental holidays throughout the Northern Territory. Run by travel enthusiasts, Camper Champ gives you access to the NT’s top campervan hire providers and the tools to find the right camper for your budget.

Whether your budget allows for an all-inclusive luxury motorhome, budget-friendly van or more accessible 4WD camper rental, they are one of the best ways to explore the vast wilderness of the Northern Territory. And it’s not just because they allow you to sleep in an actual bed! Motorhomes give you the support lifeline you need when out in such an isolated region. You won’t find resorts and hotels every other kilometre so having the means to cook, sleep and go to the toilet in comfort makes a huge difference in the outback.

RV’s allow you to stock up on supplies from town to town and store them in your vehicle, enabling you to go for days without worrying about running out of essentials before you come across a quirky outback town.

We've put together some valuable tips to make the most of your campervan holiday. Consider the following:

  1. Make a rough plan: While ad-hoc adventuring is one of the great advantages of RV travel, it’s wise to draft a rough itinerary before you depart. With a basic plan, you can avoid unessential backtracking (think of the fuel savings) and ensure you don’t miss any must-visit sites. Don’t get too carried away with the planning, though. Impromptu exploring is all part of the fun.

  2. Get re-acquainted with nature: A motorhome lets you spend extended periods in stunning natural regions while enjoying the comforts of home. Make the most of it.

  3. Check you’ve got all the essentials: Most reputable rental companies include all the crucial camping gear so you can pack your clothes and hit the road. However, not every hire van comes well-stocked. Ensure you’ve got camping chairs, a first aid kit and cooking supplies. Don’t forget your everyday electronics (including USB charging cables). Download offline maps on your phone to navigate when the reception drops out.

  4. Monitor your supplies: Campervan exploration requires keeping close tabs on your essentials. Monitor your freshwater, toilet, battery, fuel, and food. You don’t want to set up camp in paradise and then realise you’ve got to drive back to town to resupply.

  5. Chat with your neighbours: Campsites are sociable places. A simple “g’day” is often all it takes to form new friendships on the road.

  6. Check your fluids and tire pressure: Long drive times and scorching hot temperatures can lead to mechanical issues. Always check the essentials before embarking on a lengthy drive.

When embarking on a motorhome holiday, remember these essentials when driving around Darwin:

  1. All traffic moves on the left-hand side.
  2. Seatbelts and child restraints are compulsory.
  3. Carry a valid driver's licence when travelling.
  4. Watch for wildlife, especially around dawn, dusk and when travelling at night. Country roads and long stretches of open roads are notorious for crossing wildlife.
  5. There are no toll roads in the Northern Territory.
  6. The blood alcohol content limit is 0.05%.
  7. Default speed limits in the Northern Territory are 60 km/h for built-up residential areas (with some towns choosing 50km/h ) and up to 110 km/h outside built-up areas unless indicated otherwise. School zones also have speed limits reduced to 40 km/h during certain hours on school days. Always pay attention to posted speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly.

Travel Tips for Darwin

How can you save money on a campervan holiday in Darwin?

The best things you can do to lower the price of your motorhome rental holiday are:

  • Book early. Prices go up as availability goes down.

  • Be flexible regarding the vehicle type and timing of your rental. Moving your travel dates by a few days or weeks can make a significant price difference.

  • Compare and save. Camper Champ is a tool to compare multiple brands and find deals, specials and discounts to help you save. And better yet, there is no booking fee for your RV rental.

  • Skip the school holidays: Peak periods entail high prices. Instead, try the shoulder seasons to stay within budget.

When is the best time to go campervanning in Darwin?

The best time to visit Darwin and the Top End is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This time of year brings some cooler nights and the need to book ahead as this is peak season.

The climate in Darwin is hot and humid year-round. Temperatures rarely dip below 20 degrees Celsius, but this is when it won’t be too sticky, and you won’t get caught in the heavy monsoon rains that fall during the wet season from November to April.

How long do you need in Darwin for a campervan holiday?

With the many highlights around Darwin and the Top End, a minimum of a week is recommended to explore the region. With all the stunning natural and cultural sights, it will take at least a week to see the top attractions and do them justice.

Parking a Campervan in Darwin

Where are some of the best places to park a campervan in Darwin?

If you're visiting Darwin city by campervan, you'll find plenty of parking options. In Darwin city, several paid parking options are available, including metered street parking and off-street car parks.

Daily rates for street parking start at around $2 per hour, while off-street parking is approximately $10-20 per day. There are several commercial and private parking areas in Darwin city where you can leave your campervan. The two main areas are the Darwin Waterfront and Mitchell Street.

The Darwin Waterfront has a number of commercial parking lots, as well as a large area for recreational vehicles. Rates start at around $2 per hour, with a maximum stay of 24 hours.

Mitchell Street is home to several car parks, including the Darwin Central Car Park and the Mitchell Street Car Park. Rates vary depending on the location but typically start at around $10 per day.

If you're looking for a cheaper option, several public car parks are outside the city centre. These typically charge around $5 per day.

When parking your campervan in Darwin, it's essential to follow the local regulations. Parking on footpaths, nature strips and in front of driveways is not permitted.

Where can you park a campervan overnight in Darwin?

Renting a home on wheels doesn’t mean you can just camp out anywhere. Camping in public places, including sleeping in a motorhome, campervan, caravan or 4WD camper overnight, is restricted in some areas, especially around Darwin and Palmerston council areas, and is regulated with on-the-spot fines being issued.

Some free designated campsites are located about an hour’s drive from Darwin. To the east of Darwin and by the ocean is Gunn Point, and south of Darwin is Robin Creek Falls. These free camping sites are geared toward seasoned campers stopping to explore the area. There are no facilities at these free campgrounds requiring you to be self-sufficient.

Alternatively, if it’s your first time travelling in a motorhome or you have a family, we recommend the use of designated campsites within the National Parks that feature some valuable facilities like toilets and showers.

There is also the option of staying overnight in one of the privately managed holiday parks, which comes with the perks of additional facilities like playgrounds and swimming pools that are a fantastic option for families. There are over 20 holiday parks located across the Northern Territory.

National Parks around Darwin

Which are the best National Parks to visit around Darwin?

Darwin is well-connected to the surrounding national parks with a network of good roads, making it easy to travel from the city. The Darwin area is home to several stunning national parks perfect for campervan exploration.

Some of the best parks to visit include:

  • Mary River
  • Kakadu
  • Litchfield
  • Nitmiluk
How much is campervan entry to a National Park in Darwin? Are any permits required?

There are over 80 national parks, nature reserves, conservation areas and marine parks in the Northern Territory. Most national parks in and around Darwin are free to enter and have designated camping areas charging nominal fees starting at $6 per adult to stay overnight in a campervan without needing a permit. However, you do need to book online in advance to secure your spot, as you can’t pay at the park. If you plan to stay overnight outside a designated camping area, you will need to apply for a permit. These permits only cost $10 for a family or $4 per adult, so it’s an inexpensive way to enjoy some of the best beauty spots around Darwin. Being self-sufficient will be required.

The three exceptions requiring a Parks Pass to visit are Booderee, Kakadu and Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Parks, the latter two being world heritage sites.

Park pass fees are:

  • $38 adult three-day park pass
  • $50 adult annual pass
  • $109 Northern Territory annual vehicle fee

If you are travelling long distances and just require somewhere to take a break and rest up, there are designated road rest stops that allow sleeping overnight. These service areas are located on the region’s three major highways:

  • Stuart Highway
  • Barkly Highway
  • Victoria Highway

To Avoid driver fatigue, take 15-minute breaks every 2 hours.

Top 10 Campervan-friendly Campsites near Darwin

BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park

Located about a 25-minute drive out of Darwin CBD and a 1hr drive from Litchfield National Park.

Park features include:

  • Playground
  • Splash Park
  • Pool & spa
  • Bike & pedal go-cart hire
  • Amenities Block
  • Convenience Store/ Kiosk
  • Tour Desk & Bookings
  • TV Room
  • Camp Kitchen
  • BBQ Areas
  • Laundry facilities
  • Pet Friendly (conditions apply)
  • Wi-Fi Hotspots

Discovery Parks - Darwin

This is the closest holiday park to Darwin city.

Park features include:

  • BBQ
  • Pool
  • Bouncing Pillow
  • Camp Kitchen
  • Dump Point
  • Kiosk/Store
  • Laundry
  • Swimming Pool
  • WiFi
  • Dogs allowed

Darwin Free Spirit Resort

Located just a 15-minute drive south of the Darwin city centre.

Park facilities and features include:

  • Pool
  • WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • BBQ area
  • Pet friendly
  • Kiosk
  • Bouncing cushion
  • Guest laundry

Litchfield National Park - Florence Falls (2WD)

Amenities include:

  • Tank or bore water
  • Toilets
  • Showers
  • Wood BBQ

Prices:

$12 per adult

$6 per child (5 to 17 years)

$30 per family (2 adults and 4 children)

Litchfield National Park - Wangi Falls

Amenities include:

  • Tank or bore water
  • Toilets
  • Showers
  • Gas BBQ

Prices:

$12 per adult

$6 per child (5 to 17 years)

$30 per family (2 adults and 4 children)

The Darwin Experience

For the adventurer looking for a new and exciting road trip, Darwin is the place to go. This city, located in the tropical Top End of the Northern Territory, offers everything from beautiful beaches to rugged outback landscapes. It’s the ideal place to kick off your campervan adventure because it's a hub for some of Australia's most incredible natural attractions and a campervan rental holiday really is the best way to get a sense of how vast this part of Australia really is.

Sunset over the harbour in Darwin, Northern Territory

The city offers plenty of activities for visitors who want to explore beyond their campervans. There are many beautiful beaches along the coast where you can enjoy swimming or snorkelling in crystal clear waters; numerous museums showcasing local history; outdoor markets with fresh produce harvested from nearby farms; and several cultural festivals throughout the year celebrating indigenous traditions such as spear throwing competitions or corroboree dancing (which means "dance circle").

The Northern Territory is home to some of the most famous national parks in the world. Darwin is skirted by two of the Northern Territory's stunning national parks: Mary River National Park and Litchfield National Park.

The Mary River National Park is a protected national park located in the Northern Territory of Australia, about 100 kilometres east of Darwin. The park covers an area of approximately 70,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many species found nowhere else in the world like the exotic Brolga - our version of the pink flamingo! The Brolga is one of Australia’s most iconic birds and the only species of crane worldwide that is native to Australia. Several walking trails and picnic areas are located within the park providing visitors with opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty. The park is popular for birdwatching, bushwalking, and nature photography.

Litchfield National Park is known for its beautiful waterfalls, such as the Twin Falls and the Wangi Falls, which provide a welcome respite from the heat of the summer sun. The park also has a number of hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the captivating landscape and see the park's many hidden wonders.

Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park, NT

There are plenty of other nearby places to visit in this part of the world. Explore Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes, rugged sandstone escarpments, verdant wetlands, and tranquil floodplains; take a hike through Bicentennial National Trail; or explore Alligator River National Park on horseback. The options are endless. If time is not an issue, take it slow and soak it up with a luxury motorhome. Another option is to rent a one-way campervan to cover further distances through Katherine Gorge, Alice Springs and Uluru and avoid the 15 hr journey back to Darwin.

Crocodiles in Darwin, NT

Top 10 Attractions around Darwin

Darwin is the place to be if you're looking for the best in the Northern Territory. Darwin has something for everyone with its stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences. Here are our top 10 picks for Darwin's best sites to visit!

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

If you're looking for something fun to do with kids (or adults), check out Mindil Beach Sunset Markets on Sundays from November through March. This is one of Australia's most popular beaches! With food from all over the world, live music and a relaxed atmosphere, the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are your go-to place to soak up the tropical atmosphere of the city.

Darwin Waterfront

The Darwin Waterfront is a great place to relax and soak up the tropical vibes of the city. With its swimming lagoon, restaurants and bars, the Darwin Waterfront is a delightful place to spend a lazy afternoon and watch the colourful sunset.

Litchfield National Park

Just an hour's drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is a must-visit for any nature lover. With its cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests and stunning swimming holes, you can escape the city and connect with nature.

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu is one of Australia's most iconic national parks, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes, including its rugged sandstone escarpments, verdant wetlands, and tranquil floodplains. Ubirr is home to some of the best Aboriginal rock art in the Northern Territory. Yellow Water is one of the best places in the park to spot wildlife. The park is home to a rich array of flora and fauna, including crocodiles, wallabies, and over 280 species of birds fill the skies with their songs, making it a paradise for birdwatchers

Jim Jim Falls

Jim Jim Falls is a waterfall in Kakadu National Park. The falls are located in a remote, isolated area of the park and are accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. The falls themselves are a series of cascades that drop over a series of rocky cliffs into a large pool at the base.

Darwin Road-trip Itineraries

Darwin is surrounded by a myriad of things to see and do. We have crafted an assortment of itineraries tailored for campervan adventure that will take you far and wide to see the region in its glory. So look at our selection of self-drive holiday ideas and see which one will take you on a trip of a lifetime.

The Ultimate 7-Day Darwin Loop

The Ultimate 7-Day Darwin Loop

This 7-day loop around Darwin and the Top End takes in all the region's natural wonders. Visit Darwin, Katherine and Kakadu in this tropical adventure.

MORE: 7-Day Darwin Itinerary
Discovering Australia's Northwest: A 14-Day Adventure from Darwin to Broome

Discovering Australia's Northwest: A 14-Day Adventure from Darwin to Broome

This 14-day exploration sees you explore the tropical North-West at your leisure. Go interstate and cross the Kimberley along Gibb River Road and see famous outcrops and small towns before reaching the tropical resort of Broome.

MORE: Darwin to Broome Itinerary
Northern Territory Odyssey: A Scenic 7-Day Journey from Darwin to Alice Springs

Northern Territory Odyssey: A Scenic 7-Day Journey from Darwin to Alice Springs

Snake along the Stuart Highway as you traverse between the NT’s two main towns. See Katherine, Kings Canyon and even Uluru before reaching the quirky town of Alice Springs in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre.

MORE: Darwin to Alice Springs Itinerary
Darwin to Perth: A 14-Day Marathon

Darwin to Perth: A 14-Day Marathon

A marathon adventure across two of the most isolated areas in the world. Cross the vast Kimberley region before reaching the mining mecca of Australia. Work your way along the World-Heritage Ningaloo coast before reaching Perth – the most isolated city in the world.

MORE: Darwin to Perth Itinerary
Darwin to Adelaide: 14-Day Explorers Trek

Darwin to Adelaide: 14-Day Explorers Trek

Take the famous trip across Explorer’s Way as you cross the very heart of Australia. See the Red Centre come to life at Uluru and Alice Springs before discovering the alien-like nature of Coober Pedy. Everything comes full circle as you arrive in Adelaide and experience its cosmopolitan city vibe.

MORE: Darwin to Adelaide Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of licence do I need to hire a campervan in Darwin?

There are no special licencing requirements that you need to undertake if hiring or driving a motorhome in the Northern Territory. Your licence will need to be:

  • A current and full driver’s licence
  • Not a probationary or provisional licence
  • An international licence in English or an English translation
  • International Driving Permit (IDP)

Is campervan hire with unlimited mileage available in Darwin?

Yes, unlimited kilometres are generally included for standard vehicle rentals in Australia. However, limits are placed on some vehicles, e.g. 4x4 campers. The comparison tool will show whether your preferred vehicle has unlimited or restricted kilometres.

Do I have to pay a bond (security deposit) when renting a campervan in Darwin?

When renting a vehicle, a security deposit is pre-authorised, equivalent to the amount the renter is liable to cover (excess) in the event of an accident or damage to the vehicle.

The bond amount fluctuates based on the insurance package selected at the time of rental and is charged and debited on the renters’ credit or debit card.

Can additional drivers be added to the campervan rental agreement in Darwin?

Yes, most campervan rental companies do allow an additional driver. However, this driver and any others must be named on the rental agreement, and there may be a nominal fee.

Additional drivers must also hold an appropriate driver’s licence and meet driver age requirements.

What happens if my rental campervan has mechanical issues during the trip?

Most rental companies offer roadside assistance 24/7 by ringing a local or free number. In addition, mechanical breakdowns are covered by the rental company (for example, engine and electrical faults).

Repairs under $100 (Australian dollars) do not require authorisation with some suppliers and will be reimbursed upon rental return (with a GST receipt). However, it’s still recommended to ring roadside assistance for any troubles.

Can additional drivers be added to the RV rental agreement?

Yes, it’s standard for most RV rental companies to allow an additional driver. This driver and any others must be named on the rental agreement and there may be a nominal fee.

Additional drivers must also hold an appropriate driver’s license and must meet driver age requirements.

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