Bathurst Airport, located approximately 7km from the city centre, offers a simple, uncrowded travel experience. Please note British drivers that, unlike most UK airports, Bathurst Airport features a less hectic car rental process. The car rental desks of well-known companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz are right in the terminal. Cash isn't used widely here; credit cards are the primary method of payment.
Driving in Australia: A British Visitor’s Guide
Remember, cars are driven on the left side of the road in Australia just like in the UK which makes driving less challenging for Brits abroad. However, Aussies drive at higher speeds (a typical urban speed limit is 50 km/h, increasing to 100 km/h in rural areas), so buckle up for a speedy ride! It's also worth to prepare for the climate: In summer months, remember to protect your car from the heat however possible as temperatures can soar above 30°C. Winter in these parts, however, can get quite chilly, so a heated car comes in handy!
Car Class Recommendations
- Economy and Compact Cars: Ideal for navigating around the city.
- Mid-Size to Full-Size Cars: Perfect if you're planning road trips around New South Wales.
- 4WD: Consider renting a 4WD if you're planning to venture off-road or exploring rural areas around Bathurst.
Refuelling
Know your nearest petrol station! The closest ones from Bathurst Airport are Shell and BP, less than a 20-minute drive away. Petrol stations in Australia work on a self-service basis. Don't forget - Australia uses the AUD currency, so make sure your credit card is set up for international usage in advance.
Exploring Beyond Bathurst
Ready to embark on your road trip? The drive from Bathurst to Sydney, the state’s capital, is a little over three hours. But don't rush! Make sure to make stops along the way at the iconic Blue Mountains and the vineyards in the Hunter Valley. If you’re a true motorsport fan, Bathurst is home to Mount Panorama, one of the world’s most famous motor racing circuits.
Climate in New South Wales
New South Wales enjoys a temperate climate. The weather is warm in summer (December-February), autumn (March-May) is mild, winter (June-August) can be cool to cold depending on the region, and spring (September-November) is delightful - warm and dry.
So buckle up and enjoy your Australian adventure at Bathurst. Safe travels!
