Road trips are an enduring and much-loved tradition. Hitting the road and seeing the sights as you make your way through the amazing Australian scenery is an adventurous and enjoyable way to spend your holiday time.

With road trips, the journey is more important than the destination and it's a great way to stumble across new and amazing places that you would never have experienced if you were travelling in another way. In Australia, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to epic road trips, with thousands of kilometres of country roads at your disposal around the country.

If you're planning your first big road trip, then you may want to start with one that's less challenging. Here are the two main things you should consider.

1. Choose motel accommodation

Motels are the ideal accommodation type for road trips. They're inexpensive, convenient and you'll find them readily available along both major highways and minor roads all across the country. Modern motels are generally basic but provide you with a clean, well-equipped room, a comfortable bed and generally have an on-site restaurant or cafe for grabbing a quick meal.

2. Choose a suitable route

For a fledgeling road trip, it's best to choose a fairly safe route that isn't too long or taxing. If you're travelling interstate, it's good to choose a route that's easily accessed from a larger airport and also an area that has plenty of motel accommodation options en route. If you need inspiration, here are two incredible short road trips that you could try.

The Great Ocean Road

Stretching a leisurely 250 kilometres from Torquay to Warrnambool in Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is a scenic, meandering route that follows the coast as it meets the vast Southern Ocean. Each sweeping corner treats you to astonishing and varied views as you move past rugged cliffs, world famous surf beaches and sleepy beachside towns.

Easily accessible from Melbourne airport, this road trip is ideal for a weekend road trip but there is plenty to see and do if you want to take it more slowly. You'll find a mix of incredible natural rock formations, stunning national parks and lively cultural and culinary establishments.

The East Coast of Tasmania

For a road trip that encompasses some of the most pristine and stunning coastlines that Australia has to offer, you can't beat a drive along Tasmania's east coast. This drive can be accessed easily from either Launceston or Hobart airports, with both cities only a short drive away.

This road trip is all about the beaches and natural wonders, with internationally known locations such as the Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula as highlights. It's also a great opportunity to feast on fresh Tasmanian seafood, tasty local produce and world-class locally produced wines.