Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator
Estimate Australian road-trip fuel use and cost from distance, fuel economy and pump price. Split the total between travellers and test scenarios.
Your results
Calculation breakdown
- Litres
- (Distance ÷ 100) × L/100km
- Cost
- Litres × Price per litre
Worked example
An 800km trip in a car using 8L/100km at 195c/L needs about 64 litres, costing roughly $124.80.
Assumptions
- Fuel price should be checked for the region you'll be driving through as it varies daily.
- Does not account for terrain, load or driving style, which affect real consumption.
How this calculator works
This calculator multiplies your trip distance by your vehicle's fuel consumption rate and the price per litre to estimate total fuel cost. Use it to compare routes or vehicles before a long drive.
Estimate litres and fuel cost for a road trip
Multiply the trip distance by fuel consumption in litres per 100 kilometres, then divide by 100 to estimate litres used. Multiply the result by the expected pump price per litre to calculate fuel cost.
Use the total return distance where applicable and a realistic consumption figure from recent driving. Towing, roof racks, traffic, speed, terrain and air conditioning can increase actual fuel use.
Plan for price changes and shared costs
Regional and remote fuel prices can differ from the price near home. Run a higher-price scenario and allow a fuel buffer where service stations are far apart or opening hours are limited.
If travellers are sharing the cost, divide only the agreed expenses rather than assuming every vehicle cost is included. Tolls, parking, accommodation, maintenance and depreciation sit outside a fuel-only estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find my car's fuel consumption?
Check your vehicle's fuel label or owner's manual for the combined L/100km figure, or calculate it from a recent full tank of fuel.
Does this include tolls or other running costs?
No, this only estimates fuel. Use the Road Trip Cost calculator to add accommodation, food and tolls.
How accurate is the fuel price I should use?
Fuel prices vary by region and change daily, so check a current price for the areas you'll be driving through, such as via state fuel price apps.
Editorial review and responsibility
Reviewed by the CalcAussie editorial team on 21 September 2026. Review scope: Method, Australian terminology, material assumptions, source links and user-facing limitations.
Calculator results remain estimates based on the figures entered. Check material decisions against current official information and report a suspected error so it can be reproduced and corrected.