When you’re caravanning, why leave your favourite hobbies behind? Australia’s open roads are perfect for keeping your passions alive, whether you’re painting the outback, knitting by the beach or journaling your adventures under a starry sky. 

Here’s how to make the most of your experience by bringing your hobbies on the road with you.

Painting and Sketching on the Go

Australia’s diverse landscapes offer endless inspiration for your next masterpiece. Whether you’re capturing the red deserts of the outback or the pristine beaches of the coast, a portable easel and a sketchbook are all you need to create some art. 

Even if you’re not into full-on painting, carrying a small sketchbook allows you to document your travels through art in whatever style suits you – quick doodles or detailed sketches. Plus, it’s a great way to remember a specific moment or location along the way.

Photography

Road trips and photography are a match made in heaven and caravanning offers endless opportunities to snap everything from the perfect sunset to quirky roadside attractions. Pack your camera gear (or smartphone) and make it a mission to capture something unique in each place you visit. 

You can even experiment with time-lapses, long exposure shots of starry skies, or drone photography to capture those sweeping landscapes from above. 

The beauty of caravanning is that your subjects are always changing, so you’ll never run out of photo ops.

Knitting and Crocheting

Who says caravanning means sacrificing cosy hobbies? Pack a small knitting or crocheting kit and create everything from scarves to blankets while you cruise through Australia’s landscapes. 

Knitting in a caravan feels extra special – you’re often in the most serene spots and you can enjoy a cup of tea while you work on your project. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of those chilly nights when you’re tucked inside your van, cosy by the heater. 

And if you’re in need of inspiration, you could try knitting with colors that reflect the surroundings around you.

Reading

Caravanning gives you the perfect excuse to catch up on your reading list. With long stretches of time on the road, you can easily knock out a few chapters (or even finish an entire novel) while enjoying the changing scenery. 

Whether it’s a gripping thriller or a feel-good road trip story, reading offers a perfect escape during your travels. 

Set up a comfy corner inside your van, perhaps with a good cushion and your favorite blanket, and let the world of fiction carry you away. You could even choose books related to the places you’re traveling to for extra immersion!

Gardening in Portable Planters

Do you miss your garden when you’re on the road? You don’t have to! Portable planters, hanging baskets, or small herb pots can travel with you and turn your caravan into a green haven. 

Imagine waking up to fresh herbs for breakfast or a tiny succulent garden right outside your van door. It’s a peaceful way to add some life to your surroundings and stay connected with nature as you explore Australia. 

Plus, tending to plants is a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Journaling and Scrapbooking

Documenting your travels doesn’t have to be limited to photos – your thoughts, feelings and experiences deserve a place too. Journaling lets you capture the highs and lows of your road trips and it’s the perfect way to keep a travel log. 

If you’re more creative, scrapbooking lets you collect tickets, maps and other keepsakes, turning your travels into a physical memory book. 

Both options give you a creative outlet and are great ways to remember your caravanning adventures for years to come.

Music

If you’re musically inclined, caravanning gives you the freedom to practice your instrument and even perform for fellow campers. Whether you play the guitar, ukulele, or harmonica, your caravan can be your mobile music studio. 

Play a tune around the campfire, sing along to your favorite songs, or even write some road trip-inspired music. Plus, your music will sound even better when the world’s natural beauty is your backdrop. 

If you’re not into playing instruments, bring along some music playlists to keep the vibe alive throughout your journey.

Cooking

For many, cooking is more than just a necessity – it’s a creative outlet. Caravan kitchens might be small, but they offer endless possibilities for testing out new recipes or whipping up comfort food. 

From grilling outside to making soups and stews on a chilly day, caravanning offers all kinds of opportunities to cook. 

You could take your culinary skills to the next level by experimenting with local ingredients from roadside markets or shops. 

So, pack your gear, get inspired by the beauty of the road, and hit the highway while keeping your passions alive.