Let’s be honest — the freedom of vanlife is unbeatable…
But after a few days on the road (and a few too many dusty trails), there’s nothing better than a proper hot shower.
The good news?
You don’t have to pay $$$ or camp at fancy caravan parks just to get clean.
Here’s your ultimate guide to finding free or cheap showers while travelling Australia.
1. Country Pubs (Like the Legends on WikiPubs!) 🍻🚿
Believe it or not, many Aussie country pubs offer showers — especially the ones that welcome caravanners and vanlifers.
Sometimes it’s free if you’re grabbing a meal or a beer, or just a few gold coins for use.
Pro Tip:
Search WikiPubs ➔ for pubs with free or cheap camping — often showers are part of the deal!
2. Public Swimming Pools 🏊♂️
Almost every Aussie town has a public pool, and most let you use the change rooms and showers either free or for the cost of pool entry (which is usually $2–$6).
Hot Tip:
Some places let you pay a tiny fee just to use the showers without swimming — just ask nicely at the desk.
3. Recreation Centres & Sports Grounds 🏉🏀
Community centres, footy fields, and cricket grounds often have public amenities — including showers.
Especially in smaller towns, you’ll often find open change rooms that vanlifers are welcome to use.
Golden Rule:
Always leave it cleaner than you found it — so travellers stay welcome!
4. Beaches and Surf Clubs 🏖️🏄♂️
If you’re coastal, you’re in luck.
Beach showers are super common, and while they’re usually cold, they’re completely free.
Bonus Tip:
Some bigger surf life saving clubs have warm showers and amenities blocks — check local signs or ask a lifesaver.
5. Roadhouses and Truck Stops 🚛🛣️
In the outback or along major highways, truck stops and large roadhouses often have showers available — designed for truckies but open to the public.
Some are free; others charge $5–$10.
Top Spots:
- BP Truck Stops
- Shell Roadhouses
- Larger Ampol and Caltex sites
6. Visitor Information Centres 🏡📚
Some regional visitor centres offer shower facilities (especially in caravan-friendly towns).
Even if they don’t, the staff can usually point you to the nearest free or cheap option.
7. Caravan Parks (Pay-Per-Use) 🏕️
Some caravan parks will let you use their showers without booking a site, especially in smaller towns.
Usually around $5–$10 per person — and you might get a hot, private cubicle for a treat day!
8. Fitness Centres and Gyms 🏋️♀️
If you’re a member of a national gym chain (like Anytime Fitness or Snap Fitness), you can often shower at any branch.
If not, some small-town gyms offer casual day passes ($5–$15).
Bonus Tip:
If you’re planning a long trip, consider a cheap gym membership before you go!
9. Apps and Maps That Help 📱🗺️
There are great apps that show you free showers, toilets, and camping spots:
- WikiCamps Australia
- CamperMate
- WikiPubs (for pubs with camping/showers)
- Google Maps (search “public amenities” or “public toilets” for hints)
Quick Shower Survival Kit 🚿✅
- Flip-flops/thongs (never shower barefoot!)
- Quick-dry towel
- Travel soap or body wash
- Wet wipes (for no-shower days)
- Coin stash for paid showers
- Waterproof toiletry bag
Final Pro Tip: Be Respectful 👣
Wherever you shower:
- Leave no mess
- Don’t hog the facilities
- Smile and say thanks if you meet locals — it goes a long way
Good manners keep these places open for future travellers. 🙌
Stay Fresh, Legends 🚿🚐🍻
Life on the road might get dusty — but staying clean doesn’t have to break the bank.
With a bit of planning (and maybe a friendly stop at a local pub), you’ll stay roadtrip-ready all year long.
👉 Find vanlife-friendly pubs and stops on WikiPubs ➔
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