Transport guide
Buying a car or campervan as a backpacker
Rego, roadworthy certificates, PPSR checks and how to sell it on at the end.
Updated 1 October 2026
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Before you hand over cash
- Run a PPSR check (about $2) to make sure it isn’t stolen, written off or still owed money on.
- Check how long the registration (rego) has left — it’s tied to the state it’s registered in.
- Ask for service history and get a mechanic to look at it if you can.
- Get the seller’s full name and address and a signed receipt.
Transfer and insurance
Transferring a car into your name is done with the state transport department and usually has to happen within 14 days. Some states need a safety or roadworthy certificate when a car changes hands.
Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance only covers injuries to people. Get at least third-party property cover so you’re not paying for someone else’s car if you crash.
Selling it on
Post it on the community buy/sell board a few weeks before you leave. Backpacker cars sell fastest in Cairns, Darwin, Perth and Sydney.
Buy & sell board