Do I pick up a campervan in Devonport or bring one on the ferry?

You can do either. Many travellers hire a van in Melbourne and bring it across on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry (which docks in Devonport) with written permission from the hire company. Others fly into Tasmania and hire a van locally — depots operate in Devonport, Launceston and Hobart — which avoids the vehicle ferry cost. Compare both options, as the ferry surcharge can make local hire cheaper.

Can I take a hire campervan on the Spirit of Tasmania?

Yes, most major brands allow it, but you must get written permission first and some charge a Tasmania surcharge or require extra insurance. The crossing from Geelong (Melbourne) to Devonport takes about 11 hours, usually overnight, and vehicle space must be booked separately and well in advance in summer.

How much does a Tasmania campervan trip from Devonport cost?

Budget roughly $80–$150 per day all-in (van, fuel, food, campgrounds). A 10-day trip for a couple typically lands between $1,200 and $2,500. Tasmania is compact so fuel costs are low, and there is excellent free and low-cost camping across the island.

What is the best route from Devonport?

From Devonport most travellers head either west to Cradle Mountain or east toward Launceston and the Bay of Fires, before looping down to Freycinet and Hobart and back up the west coast. A classic 10–14 day loop covers Cradle Mountain, Freycinet, Hobart, the west coast and Launceston.

When should I visit Tasmania by campervan?

December to March is the warmest and busiest, with long daylight hours ideal for the national parks — book the ferry and vans months ahead. Autumn (Mar–May) brings beautiful colours and quieter roads, while winter is cold but atmospheric and cheap. Tasmania rewards travel year-round if you pack for the weather.

Campervan Hire Devonport 2026 | Spirit of Tasmania & Tips

Devonport is the front door to Tasmania. It is where the Spirit of Tasmania ferry docks after its crossing of Bass Strait, and for most campervan travellers it is where the Tassie adventure begins. Whether you bring a van across on the ferry or hire one locally, this guide covers your options, the best routes out of Devonport, and what to expect.

Two Ways to Start Your Tasmania Trip

Option 1: Bring Your Van on the Ferry

Route: Geelong (Melbourne) to Devonport, about 11 hours, usually overnight.
How: Hire in Melbourne and get written permission to take the van across. Book vehicle space early — it sells out in summer.
Watch for: Some brands add a Tasmania surcharge or require extra insurance. Factor the ferry cost into your budget.
Full detail in our Melbourne to Tasmania guide.

Option 2: Hire Locally in Tasmania

Depots: Devonport, Launceston and Hobart all have pickup options.
Pros: No vehicle ferry cost, no surcharge — fly in and start driving.
Best for: Travellers short on time or wanting to skip the crossing.

Compare Devonport campervan hire to weigh both options side by side.

Best Routes Out of Devonport

West to Cradle Mountain (1.5 hours)

Head straight for one of Australia's most iconic alpine parks — Dove Lake, the Overland Track trailhead, and wombats at dusk.

East to Launceston & the Bay of Fires

Follow the north coast to Launceston, the Tamar Valley wineries, and the flame-orange boulders of the Bay of Fires.

The Full Island Loop (10–14 days)

Devonport → Cradle Mountain → Strahan (west coast) → Hobart → Freycinet → Bay of Fires → Launceston → Devonport. This is the definitive Tasmania circuit — see our complete Tasmania road trip by campervan guide.

What It Costs

Tasmania is one of the most affordable places to campervan in Australia because distances are short and camping is cheap. Budget around $80–$150 per day all-in for a couple. The one big variable is the ferry: if you bring a van across, add the crossing and any surcharge; if you hire locally, you skip that entirely.

Camping in Tasmania

The island has superb free and low-cost camping, plus national park sites (a parks pass is required). Book Cradle Mountain and Freycinet sites ahead in summer. Our free camping guide has tips that apply well to Tassie's generous network.

Best Time to Go

December to March is warmest and busiest — book the ferry and van months ahead. Autumn is quieter and colourful; winter is cold but cheap and atmospheric. Whenever you go, compare Devonport campervan options early, as Tasmania's fleet is smaller than the mainland's and books out in peak season.