Go Cheap Campervans

GoCheap Campervans is one of Australia's most recognisable budget campervan hire brands — Australian family-owned, operating since 1999, and running from six depots across the country: Hobart, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns and Perth. Where other companies aim at the premium end of the market, GoCheap has carved out a clear niche: well-equipped, well-serviced campervans at prices that don't require you to take out a second mortgage.

The GoCheap fleet is closely linked to its sister company, Cruisin' Motorhomes. When Cruisin' retires a model after a few years of service, it moves down the line to GoCheap — where it typically serves out another four to seven years. That's the trade-off at the heart of the GoCheap proposition: you're not getting a new van, but you're getting one that's been properly maintained and is still comfortable enough for a real holiday. For budget-conscious travellers, it's a smart deal.

The fleet covers three configurations. At the compact end, the 2 Berth Hi Top Campervan is a Toyota HiAce petrol automatic — easy to drive, easy to park, good for couples who want to keep things simple. No shower or toilet on board, but the kitchenette (two-burner gas hob, microwave, 60L fridge) handles meals well. Next up is the 2 Berth Tamar, a Fiat-based diesel motorhome with a private shower and toilet, an 80L fridge/freezer, and a fixed rear double bed that means you never have to wrestle with a dinette conversion at 10pm. For families, the 4 Berth Hi Top and 4 Berth Henty cover both ends of the spectrum — the Hi Top is petrol-powered and compact; the Henty is a full motorhome with a private shower, separate toilet, and a 174–190L fridge that's big enough to stock for a fortnight. The flagship 6 Berth Derwent sleeps up to six across three double beds, has two separate living areas, and is the obvious choice for larger groups and families who still want genuine comfort at a budget rate. All vehicles include linen and bedding — doonas, sheets, pillows — so there's no need to pack sleeping bags.

Insurance and Liability

Standard liability with GoCheap is $3,000 for the Hi Top and $5,000 for the remaining vehicles. The bond is held on credit card at pickup, with a $100 administration fee. Reducing liability to zero costs $29/day (Hi Top) or $45/day (other vehicles). GoCheap also offers a Maximum Cover Package at $55/day, which adds a GPS, camping table and chairs, LPG, and a child seat if required. For a full explanation of how Australian campervan hire insurance works, see our campervan hire insurance guide.

Pick-up Locations

GoCheap depots are shared with Cruisin' Motorhomes, which keeps overheads down and allows one-way travel between cities. The six depots — Hobart, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns and Perth — cover the major starting points for Australian road trips. One-way hires between depots are available, making it easy to plan east coast or cross-country itineraries. Drivers need to be aged 21–79 with a valid licence printed in English. An international permit is required for overseas drivers. No shuttle service from airports, but all branches are within a short taxi or Uber ride from their respective airports.

Reputation

GoCheap reviews are generally positive, with recurring praise for helpful staff, responsive customer service, and good value. The most consistent criticism relates to vehicle age — expected for a budget brand operating 4–7 year-old units — and occasional maintenance niggles that come with older fleet. On the upside, roadside assistance is available nationwide, and the team's responsiveness when issues occur in the field is frequently cited as a positive. In Tasmania, GoCheap competes with Tasmania Campers, Autorent Hertz, and Devil Campers. Nationally, the budget market includes Cheapa Campa and Lucky Rentals — both operating a similar hand-me-down fleet model. GoCheap's price match promise (find it cheaper elsewhere and they'll beat it) is worth knowing about if you're shopping around.

For travellers who want to get on the road without spending a fortune, GoCheap Campervans is a solid, time-tested option. The fleet isn't new, but it's functional, properly equipped, and backed by a company that's been doing this since 1999. For tips on planning a road trip around Tasmania — GoCheap's home state — see our motorhome rental Tasmania guide.