Ever dreamt of exploring every corner of Australia in a 4WD bus? That’s exactly what Chris and Bec from Salt and Charcoal have been doing for the last five years.

In this episode of Big Lap Chats, they’re sharing the wild, wonderful, and occasionally frustrating realities of full-time travel.

From FIFO life and social work to launching a travel brand and shipping their beloved bus across the country, Chris and Bec prove you don’t need a perfect setup to get started—you just need to start.

🚍 In this episode:

• Why they ditched “normal life” to chase adventure
• How they turned a rooftop tent into a 4WD bus home
• The chaos of shipping their rig across Australia (spoiler: it took 3 months)
• The truth about breakdowns, bush mechanics, and backup plans
• Money-saving hacks for the Big Lap (free camps, public showers & bulk buys)
• The work/life rhythm that keeps their travels sustainable
• Why flexibility is the secret to stress-free exploring

This episode is packed with real talk, unexpected lessons, and encouragement for anyone feeling stuck in planning mode.

Chris and Bec are proof that the Big Lap dream is totally doable—and worth it.

🎙️ Hit play for their full story here 👉🏻 https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/chris-bec-salt-and-charcoal-big-lap-australia

In this episode of Big Lap Chats, Annette sits down with Jess Day—better known as Outback Jess—a former tour guide turned family travel expert and creator of the much-loved Spotto Books.

Jess has explored some of Australia’s most remote and iconic destinations, from the Outback to the Kimberley, and now shares the road with her partner Gary and their two kids. With a background in education and a deep love for adventure, she’s redefined what “learning on the road” really looks like.

Inside this episode:

• How Jess blended education and adventure into "road schooling"
• The truth about family travel (yes, you can pack less!)
• Her money-saving hacks for food, camps, and gear
• The story behind Spotto Books—keeping kids engaged on the road
• Tips for finding hidden free camps without relying on social media
• The power of letting go of “perfection” and embracing the journey

Whether you’re travelling with kids or just love hearing about resourceful, down-to-earth adventurers, Jess’s story is full of wisdom and inspiration.

Hit play to hear how one Aussie mum turned a road trip into a lifestyle—and a business that’s helping thousands of families explore more meaningfully.

Download the full transcript and show notes here 👉🏻 https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/jess-day-outback-jess-spotto-books

From Grief to the Big Lap: Erin and Alex From Now or Never and Camp for a Cure's Life-Changing Adventure

In this heartfelt episode, Alex and Erin share how a gift from Erin’s mum sparked a complete lifestyle shift—from working long hours and battling anxiety to hitting the road full-time with their kids.

They open up about what they thought they needed to travel (spoiler: not the air fryer or kids’ kayaks!), how the Big Lap changed their family dynamic, and why they created Camp for a Cure, an annual event raising thousands for cancer research.

Whether you’re in the planning phase of your big lap or already travelling Australia, this episode is full of real talk, practical tips, and powerful moments that’ll remind you why the Big Lap is about so much more than just seeing the sights.

You can download the full transcript and show notes here 👉🏻

https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/from-grief-to-gratitude-how-one-familys-big-lap-changed-everything/

From Burnout to Big Lap Bliss: Sarah & Keelan’s Journey of Letting Go and Hitting the Road

What started as a one-year escape from the daily grind turned into a life-changing, multi-year adventure for Sarah and Keelan, the duo behind Sarah and Keelan Travels.

In this episode of Big Lap Chats, they share how they swapped teaching and trades for life on the road—and all the highs, lows, and lessons they’ve picked up along the way.

Inside this episode:

• Their big pivot from Europe to Australia (thanks, COVID)
• How they upgraded from a hybrid camper to an Urban Caravans Extreme
• Smart money-saving tips: from bulk meat buys to savvy free camping
• The truth about van life—yes, there are bad days in a tin can!
• Their solar + water setup for 4 weeks off-grid
• Why a “second lap list” might be your new best friend
• Keelan’s electrical hacks that have saved travellers $$$

You’ll also hear their candid take on the emotional side of full-time travel—how living small has brought them closer, and why chasing freedom is worth more than any mortgage or car upgrade.

Whether you’re dreaming or planning a lap of Australia, or already lapping—it’s a refreshing, real conversation you don’t want to miss.

You can download the full transcript and show notes here 👉🏻 https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/sarah-and-keelan-travels

In this episode of Big Lap Chats, Annette catches up with full-time travellers Vicki and Glenn Bryant from Happy Campers Australia, who’ve been on the road since 2018—and have no plans of stopping.

What began as a one-year getaway turned into a six-year (and counting) lifestyle change after Glenn’s health scare made them rethink what really matters. From mental health and finances to van setups and travel tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone dreaming of the Big Lap.

Inside the episode:

• Why they left it all behind—and how they made it work
• Their clever mortgage-based funding strategy
• Top money-saving tips (free camping fans, take note!)
• How they maintain harmony in tight spaces
• Honest insights about “doing the lap” vs. really exploring Australia
• Their reliable rig setup and why they’re loyal to Kokoda
• Tips on how to set a departure date and actually stick to it

Vicki and Glenn don’t sugar-coat the lifestyle—but they do show just how rewarding it can be when you commit to the journey.

Whether you’re still planning or already on the road, you’ll find plenty of motivation and practical advice in this heartfelt chat.

You can download the full transcript and show notes here 👉🏻 https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/living-the-dream-with-happy-campers-australia

Welcome to Big Lap Chats by all Around Oz – the ultimate podcast for caravanners, campers, and anyone dreaming of planning a big lap of Australia.

Hosted by Annette Jones from All Around Oz, this podcast is your one-stop destination for expert advice, practical tips, and inspiring stories to help you plan and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.

Each week, Annette chats with seasoned Lappers who are on the road or have a wealth of experience and information from their own Big Laps. Plus industry experts from the caravanning and camping industries.

In this opening episode, Annette shares her passion for exploring Australia by road, and discusses what you can expect from the podcast.

Whether you’re planning your first big lap or already travelling, this podcast is packed with insider tips on must-visit destinations, hidden gems, and how to make the most of your time on the road.

Join us as we kick off a journey of chatting with expert for insights, real-life stories from fellow big lappers, and actionable advice to make your caravanning and camping experience unforgettable. Don’t miss this first episode of Big Lap Chats – your ultimate guide to travelling Australia.

https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/big-lap-chats-podcast-introduction/

In our very first episode of Big Lap Chats, we’re kicking things off with Mel and Brenden Chambers—long-time travellers and former owners of All Around Oz.

Currently calling in from Horsham in Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region, Mel and Brenden share how they’ve built a lifestyle that blends work and adventure. From seasonal grain work to hidden camp gems and real talk about life on the road, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone dreaming of their own Big Lap.

👉 You’ll learn:

• How they balance travel and work (without burning out)
• Tips for choosing the right vehicle and saving money on the road
• Favourite free camps and the apps they rely on
• What full-time travel really looks like (beyond the Instagram version)
• Advice for new Lappers—especially if you’re short on time

If you’ve ever wondered whether full-time travel is possible without a huge budget or influencer following, Mel and Brenden are living proof that it is—with the right mindset and a little flexibility.

🎙️ Ready to hear the real stories from the road? Press play—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

You can download the full transcript and show notes here https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/travelling-and-working-around-australia