Driving
Old Bar to Geelong
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Old Bar to Geelong covers approximately 1,150 km via the M1 Pacific Motorway and the M31 Hume Motorway. You will pass through Sydney and bypass Melbourne via the Western Ring Road. This route is best completed over two days to avoid driver fatigue. Expect heavy traffic when passing through the Sydney metropolitan area.
Total Distance: Driving distance 1,150 km, air distance 980 km.
Fastest Way
Driving, taking approximately 13 hours of pure transit time.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective for groups.
Compare Old Bar to Geelong Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
13 hours
Avg Price
$200 - $300 fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
M1 Pacific Motorway to M31 Hume Motorway, then M1 to Geelong.
Use the M7 Westlink in Sydney to bypass city traffic.
Travel Tips
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Fuel StopsRefuel in major towns like Goulburn or Albury to avoid highway service station prices.
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Traffic AlertsUse Google Maps or Waze to monitor traffic delays in Sydney.
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Rest BreaksStop every two hours to maintain alertness on the long highway stretches.
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TollsEnsure your E-Toll tag is active for Sydney motorways.
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AccommodationBook a motel in Albury if you decide to break the trip into two days.
Safety Tips
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Fatigue ManagementDo not drive if you feel drowsy; pull over at designated rest areas.
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Speed CamerasVictoria has strict speed enforcement; watch for mobile cameras.
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WeatherCheck for fog on the Southern Highlands section of the Hume Highway.
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Vehicle CheckCheck your oil, coolant, and tire pressure before departing.
People Also Ask
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Is the M1 toll road?Parts of the M1 in Sydney are tolled; ensure you have an account.
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How long is the drive?Approximately 13 hours of driving time without long stops.
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Where should I stop overnight?Albury is the halfway point and offers many accommodation options.
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Is there a train to Geelong?You can take a train from Sydney to Melbourne, then a V/Line train to Geelong.
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What is the best time to leave?Leave at 4:00 AM to clear Sydney before the morning peak.
Quick Info
- From Old Bar, New South Wales, Australia
- To Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring and Autumn for comfortable driving temperatures.
Things to Do in Geelong
1
Geelong Waterfront
Features the iconic bollards, a carousel, and beautiful views of Corio Bay.
2
Eastern Beach
A historic swimming enclosure and promenade perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
3
Geelong Gallery
One of Australia's oldest regional galleries with an impressive collection of colonial art.
4
Bellarine Peninsula
Located just outside Geelong, offering wineries and coastal villages.
Tags
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