Unshackled Adventures have now been on the road for four months — covering roughly 10,000 km so far.
With unexpected weather events forcing changes to our plans, and global tensions driving up fuel prices and slowing our pace, it hasn’t all gone as expected. But we’re still embracing the journey and committed to keeping our dream alive.
Like any adventure, there have been highs, lows, and plenty of lessons along the way.
Lowlights
We certainly didn’t expect a global conflict to unfold just as we finally took the leap—selling up to live our unshackled dream. Yet here we are. While fuel prices are beyond our control, what we can control is our pace. Slowing down has become both a practical and meaningful choice—spending more time in small communities that are also feeling the pinch.
Right now, it’s often more expensive to travel than to stay put, making the decision to linger a little longer an easy one.
Camping / Accomodation
We’ve been incredibly fortunate with our camping choices over the past few months. Research really is everything—and having a backup plan is essential. Travel apps are a great starting point, but reading reviews and checking accessibility (especially for big rigs) via Google Maps has proven invaluable.
We rarely book ahead, instead relying on flexibility (and Starlink) to secure spots as we go.
One standout has been the effort made by smaller communities across central NSW. Many offer fantastic free or donation-based camping facilities, warmly welcoming travellers. In return, we make a conscious effort to support these towns—restocking supplies and spending locally wherever we can.
Highlights
It’s the lesser-known destinations that have truly captured our hearts. Every town has a story—you just need to slow down, stay a while, and chat with the locals. Time and time again, we’ve felt welcomed in the most unexpected places.
The sheer vastness of this country continues to amaze us. In just a couple of months, we’ve experienced the rugged beauty of the Blue Mountains, the rolling hills and deep valleys of the Central Tablelands, the wide open pastoral landscapes of central NSW, and the striking red sands of Murray-Sunset National Park in Victoria.
And then there are the people. Fellow travellers who generously share their experiences, tips, and recommendations—many of whom become lasting connections for future catch-ups down the track.
Lessons Learned
No matter how beautiful a destination may seem, it’s important not to become complacent. After experiencing a theft while in camp, we’ve learned that vigilance is essential everywhere. We’ve since added sensor lights to the van for extra security.
We’re also learning not to sweat the small stuff. Both of us have come from high-pressure careers where stress was the norm, driven by strong work ethics and high standards. It’s easy to slip back into that mindset when things don’t go to plan—but this journey is teaching us to pause, reset, and stay grateful. It won’t always be perfect, but it’s always worth it.
While we set out chasing freedom, we’ve realised that completely winging it isn’t quite our style. A level of planning helps reduce unnecessary stress—especially when travelling remote roads where fuel stops, supplies, water, and campsites need to be carefully mapped out. A bit of forward planning makes for a much smoother journey.
Round Up
With shifting weather patterns and uncertainty around fuel availability, we’ve had to pivot more than expected—but we’re determined to keep moving forward. Often, it’s these very challenges that create the most memorable moments.
Slowing down, seeking out lesser-known destinations, and immersing ourselves in the character of each place has proven to be deeply rewarding.
This journey isn’t just about the places we visit—it’s about how we experience them.
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