Caravan Towing Cairns to Brisbane

I’ve been towing caravans professionally from Cairns to Brisbane for over ten years now, and I can honestly say that I still love it. There’s something about the open road, the hum of the engine, and the satisfaction of a job well done that keeps me coming back. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing it safely, efficiently, and with a level of care that ensures every caravan arrives in perfect condition.

Whenever I get a job towing a caravan down the coast, my first step is meticulous planning. I check the weather, road conditions, and any potential hazards along the way. It’s a long haul—around 1,700 kilometres—and while it can be done in two days, I prefer to take my time, ensuring the journey is as smooth as possible. I always plan my fuel stops, rest breaks, and overnight stay in advance. Being prepared makes all the difference, especially on a route that has its fair share of challenges.

Leaving Cairns early in the morning is always my preference. The air is cool, the roads are quieter, and I get a head start before the heat of the day sets in. The first leg of the journey takes me down the Bruce Highway, a road I know like the back of my hand. It’s a mix of single and dual carriageways, with plenty of road trains and caravanners making their way up and down the coast. Having a UHF radio is essential out here. Communicating with truckies helps me anticipate their movements, coordinate safe overtakes, and stay informed about any hazards ahead.

My first stop is usually around Innisfail, just to stretch my legs and check the caravan. Even though I’ve done a thorough inspection before leaving, I always pull over every few hundred kilometres to double-check the hitch, tyre pressure, lights, and brakes. It’s much better to catch a small issue early than to have it turn into a major problem further down the track. A loose hitch, a bulging tyre, or even a broken taillight can be a disaster if left unchecked.

After a quick stop, I push on towards Townsville, where I refuel and grab a proper meal. I like to eat light but nutritious on the road—something like a chicken salad or a sandwich—nothing too heavy that’ll make me sluggish. Townsville is the halfway point for the day’s drive, and from here, I decide whether to push further or call it a night. If everything is running smoothly, I usually make it to Bowen before pulling into a motel.

Finding a good place to stay overnight is crucial. I always look for motels with plenty of parking space, preferably one where I can keep an eye on the caravan. In Bowen, there’s a spot I’ve stayed at many times before. The rooms are clean, the beds are comfortable, and most importantly, I can park without worrying about tight spaces. After a long day behind the wheel, a good meal and a solid night’s sleep are exactly what I need to recharge for the next leg.

The second day of the journey starts early again. I know from experience that the roads can get busier as I head further south, and I like to be well ahead of the traffic. From Bowen, I continue towards Mackay, another key stop where I do another round of checks on the caravan. I’ve learned the hard way that Queensland’s roads can be unpredictable—potholes, roadworks, and even wandering cattle or goats can pose risks. Staying alert is non-negotiable.

Between Rockhampton and Gympie, the landscape shifts, and so do the driving conditions. The stretch through Marlborough is long and can be quite monotonous, but it’s also an area where you have to be extra cautious about animals on the road. Kangaroos are a major hazard, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. I avoid driving at night whenever possible because the risks increase exponentially. A kangaroo strike at high speed can cause serious damage, not just to the vehicle but to the caravan as well.

Another aspect I always keep in mind is fuel management. Some sections between towns don’t have reliable fuel stops, so I never let the tank drop below a quarter full. Running out of fuel in remote areas is not an experience I ever want to repeat. I always plan my refuels in places where I know there’s good diesel and enough room to manoeuvre with a caravan in tow.

By the time I reach Gympie, I’m on the home stretch. The Bruce Highway south of here becomes busier, with more impatient drivers weaving in and out of traffic. I take my time, stick to safe speeds, and remain in constant communication with truckies via UHF to make sure I’m not holding up anyone who needs to get past.

Rolling into Brisbane always gives me a sense of satisfaction. Another successful tow, another caravan delivered safely. It’s a job that requires patience, skill, and a deep respect for the road. I’ve seen plenty of drivers take unnecessary risks, push their limits, or neglect the small details that can make a big difference. For me, every trip is a reminder that professionalism in towing isn’t just about getting there—it’s about getting there the right way.

After ten years of doing this run, I still enjoy it. I love the independence, the problem-solving, and the satisfaction of knowing I’m providing a service people rely on. Every journey is different, but the fundamentals remain the same: plan well, drive smart, and respect the road. That’s the way I tow caravans from Cairns to Brisbane—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.