We strongly recommend that after a long flight, you first enjoy a good night's rest.
Sleeping in line with the local time zone will help your body clock adjust more effectively. By the following morning, you will be largely recovered from the fatigue and able to start your day feeling reasonably well-rested. Spending the first night in accommodation also reduces the risk of experiencing prolonged symptoms caused by jet lag. Stories from travellers who suffered for days are not uncommon.
We strongly advise against collecting a 4WD camper immediately after a long flight.
You will not be fully alert during the explanation and instructions about the 4WD camper and setting off on the road while feeling groggy can be dangerous. If you were to cause an accident while driving in an overtired state and others are harmed as a result, this could have financial consequences regarding your insurance, as you knowingly chose to drive while fatigued. Surely this is not how you want to begin your long-anticipated trip!
Many travellers and renters arrive in Australia in the afternoon and want to pick up their 4WD camper right away. Do not do it!!
Suppose you collect the camper at 3:00 pm, after the introduction and paperwork, you will likely not leave the depot before 4:15 pm. Then comes the trip to the supermarket to stock up on supplies. Assembling your groceries in an unfamiliar, large store can be time-consuming. Afterwards, you will still need to find a campsite and set up the camper with your groceries and luggage.
If you are travelling during the Australian winter months, bear in mind that the sun sets early. In July, for example, the sun rises in Perth at around 7:15 am and sets as early as 5:30 pm. You guessed it; if you haven’t pre-booked a campsite, you’ll be searching for one in the dark. Once there, you will be dealing with unfamiliar camping gear for the first time in the dark, a stressful way to start your holiday. Be wise and enjoy a good night's sleep in your accommodation first.