Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is much faster, but driving allows for a unique cross-country experience.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 40 to 45 hours of driving time.

Are there many tolls?

No, there are no toll roads on the Nullarbor route.

What is the best route?

The A1 Eyre Highway is the only practical route across the Nullarbor.

Yes, the highway is sealed, but it requires careful preparation.

Albury

Perth

Flight Driving

Albury to Perth

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Albury to Perth is a massive 3,500-kilometer journey across the Australian continent. You will travel via the Sturt Highway (A20) and the Eyre Highway (A1) across the Nullarbor Plain. This route is one of the most iconic and challenging road trips in Australia. The drive typically takes 40 to 45 hours. It is a major undertaking that requires careful planning for fuel, water, and supplies.

Total Distance: 3,500 km driving distance; 3,000 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest way to reach Perth, taking 7 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is more economical for families or groups.

Compare Albury to Perth Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours (including connection)	40 hours
Avg Price	500-900 AUD	800-1,000 AUD in fuel
Operator	Qantas/Virgin Australia	Personal Vehicle
Route	Albury Airport (ABX) to Perth Airport (PER) via Sydney or Melbourne.	Sturt Highway (A20) to Adelaide, then Eyre Highway (A1) across the Nullarbor to Perth.
Tip	Flying is highly recommended for this distance to save time and energy.	Carry extra fuel and water; some stretches on the Nullarbor have very few services.

Travel Tips

Fuel
Fill up at every opportunity on the Nullarbor; fuel prices are high and stations are far apart.
Water
Carry at least 20 liters of water in your vehicle at all times.
Supplies
Stock up on food and emergency supplies before leaving major towns.
Connectivity
Expect very limited mobile coverage on the Nullarbor; consider a satellite phone.
Road Safety
Check for road closures or extreme weather conditions before departing.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
This is a very long drive; plan for regular breaks to stay alert.
Wildlife
Be cautious of wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
Weather
The Nullarbor can be extremely hot; ensure your vehicle's cooling system is in top condition.
Emergency
Keep a basic first-aid kit and emergency supplies in your vehicle.