Planning your trip

Long distances, country roads, unfamiliar traffic conditions and the weather can all take you by surprise when travelling by road. When travelling long distances, remember to stop and rest as soon as you feel tired.

Distances and driving

The Guide to Queensland Roads shows types of surfaces, distances, travelling times and rest areas on principal roads through Queensland.

Survive the drive

Outback Queensland: survive the drive  (PDF, 695 KB)

In this booklet we explain how to pass a road train and what to do so you don't hit an animal. You'll get timely tips on preparing your vehicle, planning your trip and surviving the drive. An overview of Australian road rules is also included—essential reading for drivers from overseas. We also list major visitor information centres in Queensland to help you plan your journey.

Rest areas

Rest areas are there for you to stop and rest, making your trip safer and more enjoyable.

Rest areas are not long-term camping areas. However motorists are able to take extended rest breaks at certain sites.

Rules on the length of stay at rest areas vary between controlling authorities. You can stay up to 20 hours, including overnight, at some Main Roads' rest areas. They help you manage fatigue. These are shown as blue MR under the 'Control' column within the rest area document below.

You cannot stay overnight at Main Roads' rest areas shown in red.

The motorist rest areas and driver reviver sites listing (PDF, 422 KB) provides GPS co-ordinates, distance from the nearest town, controlling authority and facilities available at each site.

Heavy vehicle rest areas are for rest and safety of truck drivers. Caravans are not considered heavy vehicles, and should not stop at these locations.

A list of heavy vehicle rest areas, stopping places and scenic stops (PDF, 246 KB) is now available. The list includes GPS co-ordinates, distance from the nearest town, controlling authority and facilities available at each site

Wet season and flooding

At certain times of the year, predominately between November and April, the state-controlled road network may be affected by flooding due to seasonal monsoon activity. Main Roads provides regular updates to the RACQ about road conditions on our network. If you are planning to travel during those months, be sure to check for road conditions on the RACQ website, or phone 1300 130 595.

Last updated: 02 September 2009