What is Slow Travel? And Why You Should Consider It For Your Next Adventure
In an era where fast-paced living and constant connectivity often dominate our lives, slow travel offers a refreshing break from being... well, busy. But what exactly is slow travel? And why should you consider it for your next Australia road trip?
In this blog, we’ll delve into the meaning behind slow travel and why it's quickly becoming the go-to for families looking to get the most from their holidays (both for domestic trips and for those visiting from afar!) We'll explore what slow travel means, how it encourages meaningful connections with local communities, and why it aligns with minimalist, sustainable living.
We’ll also reveal our top tips for planning a trip that helps you embrace the scenic route, enjoy nature at your own pace, and plan a travel itinerary that’s as adventurous or relaxed as you want. Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or new to the idea of slow travel, this guide will show you why slowing down your travels can create richer, more memorable experiences. But first...
What is the slow travel movement?
Slow travel is about more than just taking your time—it’s a philosophy that prioritises connection over consumption. The concept of slow travel is deeply rooted in the "slow movement", which originated from the slow food movement in Italy and advocates for a more deliberate and mindful approach to life.
Unlike traditional travel, where you may rush from one tourist attraction to another, slow travel invites you to immerse yourself in the places you visit. Instead of jam-packing your travel itinerary with quick stops, slow travel encourages you to experience fewer places in greater depth.
Whether you’re meandering along the Great Ocean Road in a motorhome for a few days or soaking in the quiet beauty of Australia’s natural landscapes for an extended period, slow travel allows you to appreciate the journey as much as the destination.
Immersing in local culture
One of the most rewarding aspects of slow travel is the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Rather than visiting popular tourist sites, slow travellers take the time to engage with the communities they pass through, learning about their customs, traditions, and daily life.
Picture yourself spending time in a small Australian coastal town, meeting local artisans, or even joining in on a community event. Perhaps you visit a local market where you can sample regional delicacies, chat with local farmers, and better understand the area from a local perspective.
By staying longer in one place, you can get out of your comfort zone and have the chance to foster genuine connections with the local people and gain a deeper appreciation for their local customs. Instead of breezing through, you engage in meaningful conversations and gain a deeper appreciation for the local culture.
Minimalist, mindful, and sustainable
At its core, slow travel promotes minimalist and sustainable travel experiences. Rather than hopping from one destination to the next via flights or quick transit, slow travellers choose eco-friendly options like staying longer in each location and using lower-impact modes of transport, such as biking or travelling in a campervan.
This approach not only reduces your carbon footprint but also allows you to engage more mindfully with your surroundings. Imagine parking your camper near a remote beach and spending several days there—swimming, exploring nearby hiking trails, or simply enjoying the calm of the surrounding nature.
Plus, just like the slow food movement that inspired it (which emerged in Italy during the 1980s as a response to fast food), slow travel goes hand in hand with sampling regional cuisine and supporting local artisans.
By choosing slow travel, you prioritize mindfulness and sustainability. You take fewer flights, stay in more eco-friendly accommodation, sample the local delicacies and embrace the simplicity of life on the road. This kind of travel reduces stress, promotes relaxation, and lets you appreciate the journey, not just the destination.
Connecting with nature
One of the most powerful aspects of slow travel is the deep connection it fosters with the natural world. By taking the extra time to explore, you have more opportunities to engage with Australia’s stunning landscapes. Whether it's hiking through national parks, biking along scenic trails, or camping under the stars, slow travel invites you to truly experience the outdoors.
Moreover, when you travel at your own pace, you can fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. It could be as simple as spending an extra day at a secluded beach or taking a longer hike to explore lesser-known trails.
Flexibility and freedom
One of the greatest appeals of slow travel is the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional vacations, which often come with tightly packed schedules and back-to-back tours, slow travel encourages a more relaxed, open-ended approach.
The beauty of travelling in a campervan is that you have the freedom to design your own itinerary—free from the constraints of hotel check-ins, flight schedules, or rushed sightseeing tours. You can choose to stay longer in places that resonate with you or change plans on a whim if a new adventure calls.
Plus, with slow travel, there's no need to stress about missing out on major tourist attractions. Instead, you create room for spontaneity—whether it's a detour to explore a hidden waterfall, stopping to eat local goodies at a local market on a whim, or simply staying put in a peaceful spot for an extra few days.
Why you should embrace slow travel on your next campervan adventure
If you’ve ever felt rushed by the typical fast-paced holiday, slow travel offers a chance to reset. In the following sections, we’ll explore why embracing slow travel on your next campervan adventure can reignite your passion for exploration, help you travel more sustainably, and allow you to form a more meaningful connection with your destination. Whether you’re dreaming of an epic Australia road trip or just looking for a more mindful way to travel, here are a few reasons why slow travel in Australia is the key to a richer, more fulfilling adventure.
Reignite your love for travel
Over time, the hustle and bustle of traditional travel can make the experience feel rushed, superficial, and even stressful. Slow travel invites you to rekindle your love for the open road by rediscovering the simple joy of taking things slow.
Whether you're exploring Australia in a motorhome or winding along coastal roads in a campervan, this approach encourages you to savour the moment, whether that means discovering a hidden gem off the beaten path or spending an entire afternoon relaxing by the ocean.
Slow travel helps transform the journey into the adventure itself. Travelling in a camper fosters a deeper connection with your surroundings and your companions. Best of all, the pace isn’t dictated by train schedules or hotel check-ins; instead, you decide how long to linger in each place, allowing time to bond with loved ones and immerse yourself in the experience.
Sustainability and eco-friendly travel
As the world becomes more conscious of environmental impact, sustainability is becoming a priority for many travellers. The slow travel movement naturally aligns with these values by promoting fewer transport changes—like avoiding multiple flights—and embracing slower, more intentional routes.
When travelling in a campervan, you're already reducing your carbon footprint by avoiding air travel. Moreover, campervans allow you to travel slowly and enjoy nature without leaving a trace, whether you're camping in national parks or staying at sustainable accommodations designed to minimise environmental impact.
This eco-friendly approach makes slow travel a perfect match for those looking to make their Australia road trip as green as possible.
A deeper connection with your destination
Rushing from one city to the next might allow you to check off major sights, but it often leaves little room for genuine connection. The slow travel movement encourages travellers to linger in one place long enough to form a deeper bond with the local people, food and landscape.
Instead of being limited to hotel districts and tourist attractions, campervan travel lets you stay in scenic national parks, coastal towns, and remote countryside locations, giving you time to truly explore and appreciate your surroundings. Plus, engaging with the local community during your travels can enrich your experience, allowing you to build deeper connections and gain cultural understanding.
Imagine setting up camp near a national park and spending your days hiking, learning about the local wildlife, or getting to know the regional history. Whether you’re savouring farm-to-table meals or enjoying a sunset by the beach, slow travel allows you to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the places you visit, the local businesses and the local community.
Time for relaxation and reflection
In a world that often glorifies being busy, slow travel offers the perfect antidote. By prioritising time over distance, it helps you reduce stress, unwind, and find balance during your Australia road trip. Slow travel gives you the space to reflect on the experiences of the day and truly relax.
Staying in remote and peaceful locations with your campervan—such as serene beaches, mountain viewpoints, or lush rural areas—provides the perfect environment to disconnect from daily life and recharge. Taking the time to appreciate all the little details during your journey can make your travel experience even more enriching.
Without tight schedules or must-see lists dictating your day, you’re free to spend the morning watching the sunrise from a secluded campsite, take an unhurried walk along the shore, or sit back and appreciate the stillness of nature. As you park up in tranquil spots, you have the chance to reconnect with yourself, your family, and nature in a way that fast travel often doesn’t allow.
Benefits of slow travel in a campervan
When it comes to slow travel, travelling for a few days in a campervan offers some of the best advantages. In the following sections, we’ll explore how campervans and motorhomes enable a unique form of slow travel, offering the ideal balance of freedom, flexibility, and comfort.
Ultimate freedom and flexibility
One of the main benefits of slow travel is the flexibility it offers—and travelling in a campervan takes that flexibility to new heights. Imagine being able to change your route on a whim, stay longer in places you love, or discover new locations that weren't on your original travel itinerary.
With no rigid schedule to follow, you’re free to take your time and adjust your plans as you go. You can linger in one location or move on when you're ready for something new. There’s no need to rush through your journey—slow travel is all about enjoying the ride. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the freedom of a campervan lets you create a travel experience that’s uniquely your own.
Convenience of a home on wheels
Travelling in a campervan offers the incredible convenience of having your home on wheels. It allows you to travel slowly without the hassle of constantly checking in and out of hotels or packing and unpacking your bags. Your campervan serves as both transportation and accommodation!
Whether you’re pulling over for a picnic lunch with a view or settling in for the night at a scenic campsite, having everything you need in one place makes slow travel a breeze.
This convenience lets you live in the moment rather than worrying about logistics. You can cook your own meals, find a nearby caravan park at the last minute, rest comfortably, and go wherever the road takes you.
Embrace the scenic route
One key principle of the slow movement is enjoying the journey as much as the destination. Travelling in a campervan allows you to take the scenic route—whether that’s winding along Australia’s rugged coastlines, meandering through rural backroads, or climbing mountainous terrain.
With slow tourism in a campervan, the journey becomes an integral part of the adventure. Instead of racing to the next destination, you can slow down and appreciate the landscapes that unfold around you. With a campervan, you’re free to follow wherever the road leads.
TOP TIP: Want some inspiration for planning your Australia road trip to maximise the scenic views? Check out these best Australian travel destinations for nature lovers.
Perfect for all types of travellers
Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic escape, a family eager for adventure, or a solo traveller in search of solitude, slow travel in a campervan really does cater to all kinds of travellers.
Couples can enjoy the freedom to stop at remote beaches or take quiet walks in nature, while families can bond over shared experiences, from cooking meals in the camper to exploring new hiking trails. Even solo travellers find solace in slow travel, as the pace allows for moments of self-reflection and personal growth.
Top destinations for slow travel in Australia by campervan
Australia offers some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, perfect for slow-paced adventures in a campervan. Whether you're winding along the dramatic coastal roads, exploring remote wilderness areas, or delving into the charm of small towns, travelling slowly across Australia allows you to take your time and truly soak in the beauty of your surroundings. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best destinations for slow travel in a campervan and offer tips on making the most of these scenic spots and authentic experiences.
The Great Ocean Road
One of Australia’s most iconic drives, the Great Ocean Road is perfect for slow travel. Whether you only have time for a 3-day Great Ocean Road Itinerary or have the time for an extended trip, this winding route offers endless opportunities to stop, explore, and appreciate the breathtaking views.
Instead of rushing to see the famous Twelve Apostles, take your time discovering hidden beaches, local cafes, and national parks. Along the way, enjoy lesser-known stops like the charming town of Lorne or the peaceful Great Otway National Park, where you can camp amidst ancient rainforests.
Travelling slowly in a campervan along the Great Ocean Road allows you to pause when the views demand attention and stay longer in your favourite spots (quality over quantity).
Tasmania
Tasmania, with its rugged landscapes and historic towns, is a paradise for slow travellers. This island state offers an abundance of outdoor adventures, from hiking through national parks to wine tasting in small vineyards. Set your pace by exploring places like Cradle Mountain or the stunning Freycinet National Park, where you can take your time hiking scenic trails or camping by the coast.
Tasmania is also rich in history, with quaint villages and colonial-era towns that invite you to slow down and explore their unique character. Travelling by campervan gives you the freedom to discover Tasmania's hidden gems, from secluded beaches to charming rural roads. Looking for inspiration for a slow trip through Tassie? Check out this iconic road trip through Tasmania for two weeks.
The Kimberley Region
For a truly remote and immersive adventure, the Kimberley Region in Western Australia offers a slow travel experience like no other. Known for its dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and rugged terrain, the Kimberley is a wild and beautiful place that demands time and patience to explore fully.
With a campervan, you can traverse this remote wilderness at your own pace, stopping to camp under the stars, swim in crystal-clear waterholes, or marvel at the natural beauty around you.
Popular stops include the stunning Bungle Bungles and the 4WD country of Gibb River Road. With fewer tourists (no tourist traps for miles!) and wide open spaces, the Kimberley is perfect for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland
If lush forests, charming towns, and peaceful retreats are your idea of the perfect slow travel adventure, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is worth a visit. Located just inland from the bustling Sunshine Coast, this region offers a serene escape with plenty of opportunities for hiking, visiting local markets, or simply relaxing in nature.
Small towns like Montville and Maleny are perfect for lingering—enjoy the boutique shops, local galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Staying in a campervan lets you pause in beautiful campgrounds or caravan parks surrounded by the region’s natural beauty.
How to plan your slow travel campervan hire adventure
Planning your slow travel adventure in a campervan is all about embracing flexibility, comfort, and connection with your surroundings. In this section, we’ll cover essential tips for planning a slow-paced campervan hire road trip, from choosing your destinations wisely to packing practical gear that will keep you comfortable throughout your trip.
Choose your destinations wisely
One of the key principles of slow travel is to visit fewer places but stay longer in each one. When planning your Australia road trip, choose destinations that offer rich cultural experiences, natural beauty, or opportunities to engage with local communities.
Instead of trying to cram too many stops into your itinerary, allow yourself the freedom to linger in places that truly spark your interest. By choosing a few gems, you’ll be able to immerse yourself fully in each location and appreciate all it has to offer, from national parks to local events.
Create a flexible itinerary
While planning is essential for a successful Australia road trip, it’s important to leave room for spontaneity. Create a loose campervan travel itinerary that includes some must-see stops but also allows for flexibility. This way, you can adjust your plans on the go and explore places that catch your interest along the way.
Pack for comfort and practicality
Since you’ll be travelling at a slower pace, it’s important to pack for comfort and practicality. Be sure to bring clothing for varying weather conditions, as Australia’s climate can be unpredictable. Pack essentials for downtime, such as books, games, or outdoor gear, so you can enjoy your time at campsites or scenic spots.
Remember practical items like a good-quality cooler for fresh food, camping chairs (which can be hired if you prefer), and insect repellent. Campervans offer plenty of storage, so you can bring the items that will help you feel at home on the road.
Stay in scenic locations
One of the highlights of slow travel is the opportunity to stay in beautiful, scenic locations. Look for campsites and caravan parks that offer more than just a place to park—choose sites near national parks, along beaches, or with views of mountains and rivers.
These scenic spots allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature, whether you wake up to the sound of waves or fall asleep under a starry sky.
Engage with local businesses and communities
A key aspect of slow travel is engaging with the communities you visit. Take the time to participate in local activities, visit markets, taste the local cuisine at family-owned restaurants, and support local businesses. By doing so, you’ll not only enrich your travel experience but also contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
This approach allows for deeper cultural exchange and creates memories that go beyond the usual tourist experience. Slowing down your travels gives you the chance to build connections with the people and places you encounter along the way.
Ready for your Australian getaway?
Ready to set off on your slow travel adventure across Australia? Whether you’re exploring the coastal beauty of the Great Ocean Road, the rugged wilderness of the Kimberley Region, or the peaceful retreats of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a campervan gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace. Start planning your getaway today by booking your Apollo camper online and picking it up from any of our Apollo branches across Australia.