Thread: NT Trip in D4

For those contemplating a long trip towing caravan and wondering how much it may cost. I have just done 14,800 Km’s over 3 months across Northern Australia in my D4.

Towing 22’6” Traveller Caravan with ATM of 3 ton, and vehicle well loaded to just under GVW with fridge, generator, 2 spares, camera gear, dog and misses, (not in order of priority) we averaged 13.8L/00 Kms. I estimated approx 12,000 was actually towing van. I tried to maintain 95Kmh where practicable. We stuck to the black stuff whilst towing but managed to get off road when not. Luckily I had noted initial mileage as unbeknownst to me trip meters stop at 9,999Kms. A tip for those contemplating long distances.

Our biggest cost was fuel $1.65 - $2.39. Per litre, total of approx $3500, free camped most of the time so accommodation costs amounted to $1000. Estimated food/drink/various tours and sundry living expenses for 2 people and dog at about $$2500.

All up costs about $2300 per month for 2 people and dog.

Was it worth it? A resounding yes, Would I do it again?...Maybe. Personally I think we tried to do too much in too short a time. The Dog was a problem. I hadn’t taken into account the no dogs policy in most National parks. Luckily enough in many places we were able to find someone to dog sit whilst we wondered around. The van, though very comfortable with everything we needed, was probably a tad large and heavy.

Scenery was astounding, Kimberley’s Amazing. A photographers delight.


Lenny (Land Rover) peformed flawlessly. I had replaced all hoses, thermostat housing, oils, major service etc etc prior to leaving. A pleasure to drive that distance in that vehicle, comfortable and rested at the end most days.

Originally Posted by Lukeis

Which van are you pulling? Any limitations to places you wanted to go as a result of the size? I have the same length and doing a big trip in 12 months time

The van was a 22’6” Traveller Sensation, no limitations as to where we went as we were aware of size and planned accordingly. When we needed to use a caravan park we simply checked ahead as to ensure no problems with van or dog. (Not all camps take dogs) I think for our purposes, a 19 footer with ensuite (for wife) would have been more than adequate. Much to my surprise we used the washing machine whilst in parks. Wife was very impressed with it.
cheers