I am currently housesitting on the Gold Coast until mid Oct and after that I would love to set off around Australia, maybe doing some housesitting along the way. The trouble is...I am a not at all mechanical minded mature woman and a bit worried about going alone.
I have no vehicle as yet so would like advice about this and also is there anyone out there who might like to join me?
Hi Aunty and welcome to the forum, your dog is beautiful.
In order to work out the type of rig you want mate, you need to work out the type of travel you want to do. For example, all on road, bit of off road, bush camping or all van parks.
What level of comfort would you like and of course, the amount you can spend on a rig.
We all do heaps of research before jumping in and keep an eye on what the market is for the rig you want, it can vary heaps from new to used as well.
auntyfudge said
06:21 PM Jun 17, 2011
Thanks Firefly for responding. I was thinking of on road I guess but I don't mind bush camping and dont require a high level of comfort. I am just at the research stage as you correctly surmise. Last year I drove around FNQ camping for 2 weeks in a Toyota litace. Not terribly comfortable but I really enjoyed it. Now I think of much longer term so will need something bigger. What could I buy for around $20,000 do you know? A friend mentioned something called a Matilda?
jonathan said
06:34 PM Jun 17, 2011
welcome Aunty ..
No doubt you'll get lots of info put your way .. but this is one thing that is most important. Whatever you get, its very important that you get the condition of the vehicle verified by qualified sources .. If none are available to you in your 'family' group, then seek known reputable locations .. ie .. NRMA .. RACQ .. etc
Dont fret on it .. just part of the learning curve .. you'll enjoy it all and the moral support you can get here ..
enjoy !
Jon
auntyfudge said
06:36 PM Jun 17, 2011
Thanks Jon, I will do that when I find something...I am a bit concerned about breakdowns in isolated places. Jill
Firefly said
07:24 PM Jun 17, 2011
There seems to be an amazing amount of traffic on the roads these days, especially in the northerly travel season mate but most of us make sure we have NRMA (or equal) top roadside assist and things like a phone with the best coverage you can, UHF radio and keep good water and food stocks mate.
I haven't heard of the Matilda but I am now off to look.
You will get a good rig for that money I would think.
Sheba said
07:26 PM Jun 17, 2011
Welcome Aunty. There are a number of Female Solo's with Toyota Hi-aces here now.
I know I'm happy with mine. It's just the right size for me. Don't think I'd be comfortable with anything bigger, and I'd be outlaying more for fuel as well.
When you find a Unit that you like, and it's in good condition, you shouldn't have to worry too much as long as you're with the RACQ. I believe they have reciprocal deals with Interstate relevant Vehicle people.
There's even an RACQ guy in Weipa now. Wasn't when I lived up the Cape.
And I only ever Free-camp. Will only go to a C-Park if ever I need Power. I have a Solar Panel on the roof.
Happy hunting,
Cheers,
Sheba.
-- Edited by Sheba on Friday 17th of June 2011 07:31:34 PM
auntyfudge said
07:42 PM Jun 17, 2011
Thanks Firefly, you sound very experienced. I am pretty green but a fast learner
auntyfudge said
07:47 PM Jun 17, 2011
Thanks Sheba,
very encouraging.
I will consider a Toyota again. I know a bit about 12v power as I was a liveaboard boatie for a couple of years. I will not be wanting anything too fuel hungry either.
Do you travel a lot?
jill
Yuglamron said
07:48 PM Jun 17, 2011
Hi Aunty,
All I can say is that once the decision is made to travel there will be a mutitude of butterflies in your tummy until the day you take off on "The big lap."
There are lots of solo women out there doing their own thing with no mechanical knowledge when they start out.
A bit like life in general.
You will learn about mechanical things and I know all you have to do is holler for help from someone on this site and you will get good advice.
I see from earlier posts that advice is already flooding in.
I am sure you will find a vehicle that will suit you and as said make sure you have a decent inspection before you buy.
Hope this forum helps you decide what suits you and your aims.
Just ask for help and advice and it comes from everywhere by the very knowledgeable people here.
Welcome and good travelling
auntyfudge said
07:56 PM Jun 17, 2011
Yes, very much like life in general. I am already much encouraged...thanks
Sheba said
09:14 PM Jun 17, 2011
auntyfudge wrote:
Do you travel a lot?
jill
Not yet Jill, but it won't be too long now. First long trip was to Cairns. Second to Mildura. [I live just out of Rockhampton.]
Will be going down to Brisbane sometime in the next couple of months to visit my sisters, and Glassies, and will catch up with Jules while I'm down there.
Still have to sell my house, before I can do more long-term travelling. I'm hoping it won't take too long.
Cheers,
Sheba.
Cruising Granny said
09:37 PM Jun 17, 2011
Hi and welcome Aunty. If you're thinking of something bigger than the Hi-Ace the next thing would be the Iveco, Ford Transit, VW or Mercedes larger camper van, not quite as bit as a motor home. I think the "Matilda" is a model of motorhome/camper van in the range of the vehicles I've mentioned. Ex rentals are a good place to start, but as Jon noted, get it checked if you're not confident in your own knowledge of vehicles. What do you travel with now? Do you have a home? What will you do with that while you're travelling? Then you need to think about the type of camping you'll do. Whether you free camp or use caravan parks. The dog will limit your access to national parks and restrict accommodation at caravan parks. Some take dogs, but many don't. While there are a lot of kilometres out there beyond your comfort zone, you are never far away from other motorists. Even a busy truck driver under pressure has been know to exercise chivalry and help a damsel in distress on the road side. There are some very helpful travellers out there. Roadhouses are regularly placed along the highways and bi-ways of this great big country of ours. Fuel consumption is relative to the vehicle and the load it carries. Diesel is probably the way to go in a vehicle of the size you seek. Good luck with you plans.
auntyfudge said
10:40 PM Jun 17, 2011
Hey Sheba, I am here on the Gold coast, keep in touch we can meet up. I drove down from Cairns last year, in fact I used to live there. I was through Rockhampton a few times.
auntyfudge said
10:44 PM Jun 17, 2011
hello cruising Granny,
I think the vehicle I want is a Matilda Clancy on a Toyota hiace low 2 wheel drive. I would prefer diesel if I can find it.
I do have a home but have already rented it out furnished so that takes care of that.
Jill
Firefly said
10:58 PM Jun 17, 2011
auntyfudge wrote:
Thanks Firefly, you sound very experienced. I am pretty green but a fast learner
Oh no where near mate, just learning and most of that I read on here. Soo many on here know soo much it all rubs off after a while. But I do love it.
I did a google on the Matilda and found this one so I rekon you would be on the money to find one of your liking mate.
I started thinking about travelling round Australia last December but my budget was much smaller than yours. By now I have bought a Hi Ace and have it ready for the trip both camping and mechanically. If you are interested in the progression from then to now you may want to visit my blog yeoeleven.blogspot.com
I too live on the Gold Coast and would be happy to help in any way, there is also a thread here about "my 12 month plan"
John
auntyfudge said
10:27 AM Jun 18, 2011
Thanks for the offer John. I will have a look at your site....love to hear your plans.
auntyfudge said
10:48 AM Jun 18, 2011
Hey John, thats all looking very good, congratulations! I read your blog and you will be away soon I guess. Love to see your van .
jill
Happywanderer said
11:34 AM Jun 18, 2011
Hi Jill. Welcome and I know you will learn so much from all the wonderful people on here. There is so much to learn, the first rule is do you research well when looking into the van you want. If you want to read how badly things can go wrong just read some of my threads. Then learn by my mistakes. It hasn't turned me of completeley yet. There have been times where I just felt better to sell the van, Myrtle, and recoup my losses. Then I watch a program on TV just now called Queensland Weekender, it was based around the Stanthorpe area. What magic. Made me all the more determined to get things fixed and get back on the road. Good luck, can't wait to hear about your travels and maybe we will meet somewhere along the road.
Dunco said
11:47 AM Jun 18, 2011
Aunty, the best thing to do is to bite the bullet and have a go at want YOU want to do. Life is too short and you are a long time dead, so as the NIKE ads say "Just do it". All will be fine.
I have traveled solo around Australia twice with an extra trip across the Nullabor and many other smaller trips in between and I have met, seen, many solo ladies in vans, motorhomes, campers, tents and motorbikes, so you will NOT be alone out there as there is always someone willing to assist.
Never listen to just one person, always double check and you already have the best friend anyone can have with your dog.
lilly31 said
01:11 PM Jun 18, 2011
Hello auntyfudge ..welcome ... we all had to start somewhere ...I have visted a few caravan and camping shows had a look lots of camper van /caravans/ camper it good way to gather some information about which way you want to travel.. and they you can go from there Just start by doing short trips to you get you travel legs .. lots of us out there couples and lots of solos women and men .... to help you if you need it . This is a great site for information and encourgement .... but i say you are already finding that out already ..
shadyandme said
02:43 PM Jun 18, 2011
Hi Auntyfudge I like you am on my own with my wonder dog shady so you will not be on your own you will have your wonder dog with you, I have just got to get the roadworthy done on my motorhome (halfway through my mechanic had a small stroke and he would not let his helper do it so I have to wait) early next week hopefully, then I am off heading north for the rest of winter, back here (vic) for xmas then next year maybe w.a. or whatever takes my fancy , it has taken me a year to get this far, just take your time and get racq top coverage on whatever you decide on that takes the worry out of mechanical things then just enjoy, Good luck with whatever you decide on, catch up later on. Norma
HeadnHome said
05:15 PM Jun 18, 2011
Hi Aunty, alot of great advice and help found on this forum so you have started in the right place, the more you read the more determined you want and know you can do it..
auntyfudge said
05:16 PM Jun 18, 2011
Hi everyone,
lovely to "meet" all of you and to have so many positive and encouraging responses from like minded people. I have definitely decided to DO it! I will keep you posted with progress , [so far I have only bought a Lonely Planet book about Australia], but I only thought of going yesterday! I hope very much to meet some of you along the way, [especially wonder dog Shady]
Jill
Sheba said
06:26 PM Jun 18, 2011
An Essential book to get is "Camps". I think the latest one is No 6. Any Camping store, will have one, or the RACQ. If your a member, it'll be slightly cheaper there.
Most GN's have one. It shows you Freecamps, C-Parks, Dog-friendly sites as well.
Any-way, check it out for yourself. Not cheap, but worth every cent.
Cheers,
Sheba.
jonathan said
07:13 PM Jun 18, 2011
heeeey ! .. look at HW .. she's already chewin' at the bit to get goin' again !
Good on yer, girl !
Jon
Cruising Granny said
08:55 PM Jun 18, 2011
If HW can it it, anyone can after all her "glitches". Just remember you're not the first, and you're not alone. But it's your exclusive experience.
Happywanderer said
09:07 PM Jun 18, 2011
You are so right Jon, sitting here today reading and watching a bit of TV and mulling over where, when and how. I have really itchy feet and so annoyed I'm not already out there. I watch travel shows on TV and I'm salivating. Turned out to be two on Qld on today including the Rainbow beach area and Fraser Island. Oh damn, why aren't I already up there instead of here in this cold hole. As you say CG, if I can do it anyone can and if I want to get out there so soon after all the troubles it all can't be half bad. Just trying to work out money, dates etc to try and get away soon and if only for a 3 or 4 week period will do me for now till after grandbaby is born, then off again.
Vic said
12:49 AM Jun 19, 2011
Check these Talvor ones out too Jill, I think there are about 3 dealers in Qld, see the Diesel one here similar to the Matilda;
I am currently housesitting on the Gold Coast until mid Oct and after that I would love to set off around Australia, maybe doing some housesitting along the way. The trouble is...I am a not at all mechanical minded mature woman and a bit worried about going alone.
I have no vehicle as yet so would like advice about this and also is there anyone out there who might like to join me?
I don't smoke and I have this lovely dog.
Hi Aunty and welcome to the forum, your dog is beautiful.
In order to work out the type of rig you want mate, you need to work out the type of travel you want to do. For example, all on road, bit of off road, bush camping or all van parks.
What level of comfort would you like and of course, the amount you can spend on a rig.
We all do heaps of research before jumping in and keep an eye on what the market is for the rig you want, it can vary heaps from new to used as well.
I was thinking of on road I guess but I don't mind bush camping and dont require a high level of comfort. I am just at the research stage as you correctly surmise. Last year I drove around FNQ camping for 2 weeks in a Toyota litace. Not terribly comfortable but I really enjoyed it. Now I think of much longer term so will need something bigger.
What could I buy for around $20,000 do you know? A friend mentioned something called a Matilda?
welcome Aunty ..
No doubt you'll get lots of info put your way .. but this is one thing that is most important. Whatever you get, its very important that you get the condition of the vehicle verified by qualified sources .. If none are available to you in your 'family' group, then seek known reputable locations .. ie .. NRMA .. RACQ .. etc
Dont fret on it .. just part of the learning curve .. you'll enjoy it all and the moral support you can get here ..
enjoy !
Jon
Jill
There seems to be an amazing amount of traffic on the roads these days, especially in the northerly travel season mate but most of us make sure we have NRMA (or equal) top roadside assist and things like a phone with the best coverage you can, UHF radio and keep good water and food stocks mate.
I haven't heard of the Matilda but I am now off to look.
You will get a good rig for that money I would think.
Welcome Aunty. There are a number of Female Solo's with Toyota Hi-aces here now.
I know I'm happy with mine. It's just the right size for me. Don't think I'd be comfortable with anything bigger, and I'd be outlaying more for fuel as well.
When you find a Unit that you like, and it's in good condition, you shouldn't have to worry too much as long as you're with the RACQ. I believe they have reciprocal deals with Interstate relevant Vehicle people.
There's even an RACQ guy in Weipa now. Wasn't when I lived up the Cape.
And I only ever Free-camp. Will only go to a C-Park if ever I need Power. I have a Solar Panel on the roof.
Happy hunting,
Cheers,
Sheba.
-- Edited by Sheba on Friday 17th of June 2011 07:31:34 PM
Thanks Firefly, you sound very experienced. I am pretty green but a fast learner
Thanks Sheba,
very encouraging.
I will consider a Toyota again. I know a bit about 12v power as I was a liveaboard boatie for a couple of years. I will not be wanting anything too fuel hungry either.
Do you travel a lot?
jill
Hi Aunty,
All I can say is that once the decision is made to travel there will be a mutitude of butterflies in your tummy until the day you take off on "The big lap."
There are lots of solo women out there doing their own thing with no mechanical knowledge when they start out.
A bit like life in general.
You will learn about mechanical things and I know all you have to do is holler for help from someone on this site and you will get good advice.
I see from earlier posts that advice is already flooding in.
I am sure you will find a vehicle that will suit you and as said make sure you have a decent inspection before you buy.
Hope this forum helps you decide what suits you and your aims.
Just ask for help and advice and it comes from everywhere by the very knowledgeable people here.
Welcome and good travelling
Not yet Jill, but it won't be too long now. First long trip was to Cairns. Second to Mildura. [I live just out of Rockhampton.]
Will be going down to Brisbane sometime in the next couple of months to visit my sisters, and Glassies, and will catch up with Jules while I'm down there.
Still have to sell my house, before I can do more long-term travelling. I'm hoping it won't take too long.
Cheers,
Sheba.
If you're thinking of something bigger than the Hi-Ace the next thing would be the Iveco, Ford Transit, VW or Mercedes larger camper van, not quite as bit as a motor home.
I think the "Matilda" is a model of motorhome/camper van in the range of the vehicles I've mentioned.
Ex rentals are a good place to start, but as Jon noted, get it checked if you're not confident in your own knowledge of vehicles.
What do you travel with now? Do you have a home? What will you do with that while you're travelling?
Then you need to think about the type of camping you'll do. Whether you free camp or use caravan parks.
The dog will limit your access to national parks and restrict accommodation at caravan parks. Some take dogs, but many don't.
While there are a lot of kilometres out there beyond your comfort zone, you are never far away from other motorists. Even a busy truck driver under pressure has been know to exercise chivalry and help a damsel in distress on the road side.
There are some very helpful travellers out there. Roadhouses are regularly placed along the highways and bi-ways of this great big country of ours.
Fuel consumption is relative to the vehicle and the load it carries. Diesel is probably the way to go in a vehicle of the size you seek.
Good luck with you plans.
Hey Sheba, I am here on the Gold coast, keep in touch we can meet up. I drove down from Cairns last year, in fact I used to live there. I was through Rockhampton a few times.
hello cruising Granny,
I think the vehicle I want is a Matilda Clancy on a Toyota hiace low 2 wheel drive. I would prefer diesel if I can find it.
I do have a home but have already rented it out furnished so that takes care of that.
Jill
Oh no where near mate, just learning and most of that I read on here. Soo many on here know soo much it all rubs off after a while. But I do love it.
I did a google on the Matilda and found this one so I rekon you would be on the money to find one of your liking mate.
http://perth.gumtree.com.au/c-Cars-Vehicles-Motorbikes-Parts-caravan-campervan-motor-home-2003-Toyota-Hilux-Matilda-Camper-Van-W0QQAdIdZ273394924
Hi and welcome auntifudge,
I started thinking about travelling round Australia last December but my budget was much smaller than yours. By now I have bought a Hi Ace and have it ready for the trip both camping and mechanically. If you are interested in the progression from then to now you may want to visit my blog yeoeleven.blogspot.com
I too live on the Gold Coast and would be happy to help in any way, there is also a thread here about "my 12 month plan"
John
Hey John, thats all looking very good, congratulations! I read your blog and you will be away soon I guess. Love to see your van .
jill
There is so much to learn, the first rule is do you research well when looking into the van you want. If you want to read how badly things can go wrong just read some of my threads. Then learn by my mistakes.
It hasn't turned me of completeley yet. There have been times where I just felt better to sell the van, Myrtle, and recoup my losses. Then I watch a program on TV just now called Queensland Weekender, it was based around the Stanthorpe area. What magic. Made me all the more determined to get things fixed and get back on the road.
Good luck, can't wait to hear about your travels and maybe we will meet somewhere along the road.
I have traveled solo around Australia twice with an extra trip across the Nullabor and many other smaller trips in between and I have met, seen, many solo ladies in vans, motorhomes, campers, tents and motorbikes, so you will NOT be alone out there as there is always someone willing to assist.
Never listen to just one person, always double check and you already have the best friend anyone can have with your dog.
we all had to start somewhere ...I have visted a few caravan and camping shows had a look lots of camper van /caravans/ camper it good way to gather some information about which way you want to travel.. and they you can go from there
Just start by doing short trips to you get you travel legs .. lots of us out there couples and lots of solos women and men .... to help you if you need it .
This is a great site for information and encourgement .... but i say you are already finding that out already ..
Hi Auntyfudge I like you am on my own with my wonder dog shady so you will not be on your own you will have your wonder dog with you, I have just got to get the roadworthy done on my motorhome (halfway through my mechanic had a small stroke and he would not let his helper do it so I have to wait) early next week hopefully, then I am off heading north for the rest of winter, back here (vic) for xmas then next year maybe w.a. or whatever takes my fancy , it has taken me a year to get this far, just take your time and get racq top coverage on whatever you decide on that takes the worry out of mechanical things then just enjoy, Good luck with whatever you decide on, catch up later on. Norma
lovely to "meet" all of you and to have so many positive and encouraging responses from like minded people. I have definitely decided to DO it! I will keep you posted with progress ,
[so far I have only bought a Lonely Planet book about Australia], but I only thought of going yesterday!
I hope very much to meet some of you along the way, [especially wonder dog Shady]
Jill
An Essential book to get is "Camps". I think the latest one is No 6. Any Camping store, will have one, or the RACQ. If your a member, it'll be slightly cheaper there.
Most GN's have one. It shows you Freecamps, C-Parks, Dog-friendly sites as well.
Any-way, check it out for yourself. Not cheap, but worth every cent.
Cheers,
Sheba.
heeeey ! .. look at HW .. she's already chewin' at the bit to get goin' again !
Good on yer, girl !
Jon
Just remember you're not the first, and you're not alone. But it's your exclusive experience.
Oh damn, why aren't I already up there instead of here in this cold hole.
As you say CG, if I can do it anyone can and if I want to get out there so soon after all the troubles it all can't be half bad.
Just trying to work out money, dates etc to try and get away soon and if only for a 3 or 4 week period will do me for now till after grandbaby is born, then off again.
Check these Talvor ones out too Jill, I think there are about 3 dealers in Qld, see the Diesel one here similar to the Matilda;
http://www.talvor.com/adventure-camper/features-specs.aspx
-- Edited by Vic on Sunday 19th of June 2011 12:49:26 AM
-- Edited by Vic on Sunday 19th of June 2011 12:54:37 AM