You've decided on a motorhome holiday in Australia. You've narrowed it down to a 4-berth or a 6-berth. Now comes the question that trips up almost everyone: how much bigger is a 6-berth actually, and is the extra size worth it for your trip?
The short answer is: it depends entirely on who's travelling, where you're going, and how much you value a made-up bed every morning. The longer answer is what this guide is for.
We've broken down every 4-berth and 6-berth motorhome available through DriveNow.com.au in 2026 β covering sleeping layouts, bathroom facilities, vehicle sizes, key features and which type of traveller each one suits. No fluff, just the good stuff.
π‘ Tip: Jump on a laptop or desktop and use the DriveNow GRID view to compare prices side-by-side. It's a lot easier than scrolling on your phone, especially when you're comparing this many vehicles.
π’ Understanding the Australian Motorhome Market
Before you start comparing vehicles, it helps to understand who's actually behind the brands. The Australian motorhome hire market is more consolidated than most people realise β and knowing the ownership structure helps you make a smarter decision.
THL β The Big Group Behind Maui, Apollo, Mighty & Britz
A large slice of Australia's motorhome fleet sits under the THL umbrella β Tourism Holdings Limited, a publicly listed company with operations across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Canada and the USA. They've been in the game for decades.
π΅ Apollo β mid-range, strong value, wide depot network
π° Mighty β budget tier, older fleet, great for cost-conscious travellers
π΅ Britz β mid-range (limited 4-berth range in this category)
Because they share the same parent company, all THL brands operate from the same core depot network: Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Cairns, Darwin, Broome and Hobart. That's handy to know for one-way trips.
π Cruisin Motorhomes & GoCheap β The Independent Front Runner
Cruisin Motorhomes is one of our favourite independent operators in Australia β proudly Australian-owned and operated, with great vehicles, great staff and outstanding on-road support. Cruisin also operates GoCheap Campervans β a budget brand running the same depot network with older fleet vehicles. Same great support, lighter on the wallet.
Cruisin & GoCheap depots: Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Cairns, Darwin and Hobart.
π Star RV β Premium Independent
Star RV is a standalone premium operator offering hotel-quality interiors and newer fleet vehicles. A genuine alternative to Maui at the top end of the market.
Let's Go (Jayco) β Australian-Built
Let's Go motorhomes are built on the Jayco chassis β Australia's most recognised motorhome manufacturer. Newer fleet, Australian-built quality, and a range covering both 4-berth and 6-berth categories.
π 4 Berth vs 6 Berth: The Size Question
How much bigger is a 6-berth, really?
More than you might think β and not just in length. A typical 4-berth motorhome runs around 6.7mβ7.9m in length. Step up to a 6-berth and you're typically looking at 8.0mβ8.9m, sometimes longer. That extra metre or so might not sound dramatic, but on Australian roads it changes the driving experience noticeably.
The width increases too β most 6-berths sit at 2.30mβ2.45m wide, which is something to consider in narrow national park roads, beach access tracks, and tight campground loops.
π΄ Permanent Beds vs Set Up Each Night
This is arguably the most practical difference between 4-berth and 6-berth motorhomes β and it's one that most people don't think about until they're converting a dinette for the fourth night in a row.
Most 6-berth motorhomes include at least one permanent bed β typically an over-cab double that stays made up all the time β plus a dinette or rear lounge that converts for the remaining sleepers. Some models offer two permanent or drop-down beds, meaning almost no nightly setup at all.
4-berth motorhomes are more varied. Compact models like the Maui Cascade and Apollo Euro Quest feature a permanent drop-down double bed over the rear, which is a real bonus. But larger 4-berths typically use an over-cab bed plus a dinette conversion β so at least one sleeping space requires setup each night.
If "no fussing with beds" is important to your group, look closely at which specific model you're booking β not just the size category.
π£οΈ Road Factors: Where a 4-Berth Has a Real Advantage
Australia is a big country with some genuinely challenging roads. A 6-berth motorhome handles the highways beautifully β but there are routes where the extra length becomes a liability:
The Great Ocean Road (VIC) β famous for its hairpin bends and narrow sections. Manageable in a 4-berth; more stressful in a long 6-berth.
Tasmania β winding roads and tight historic towns. Tassie rewards those who go compact.
Cape York Peninsula (QLD) β serious 4WD territory. Standard motorhomes of any size aren't suitable; but at least a smaller vehicle keeps your options more open on the fringes.
Margaret River & South West WA β wine country roads and national park access points can be tight. A shorter vehicle is simply less stressful.
Inner-city driving and parking β Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne are manageable in a 7m motorhome. An 8.5m+ vehicle is a different proposition entirely.
The general rule: if your itinerary includes a lot of national park driving, winding coastal roads, or remote outback tracks, a 4-berth gives you meaningfully more freedom. If you're sticking to the main highway network and pulling into proper caravan parks each night, a 6-berth is perfectly manageable.
π₯ How Many Are You, Really?
The honest conversation most people avoid: how many people are genuinely travelling, and how many are doing so comfortably?
2 adults: A 4-berth is spacious. A 6-berth is luxurious β but you're paying for space you may not need, and driving a vehicle bigger than necessary.
2 adults + 2 kids: A 4-berth is the sweet spot. Plenty of sleeping space, manageable size, and kids don't need a lot of room.
3 adults or 2 couples: This is where the 6-berth starts making genuine sense β everyone gets a real bed, and nobody is sleeping on a converted dinette.
4+ adults or larger families: A 6-berth is the right call. The additional space and sleeping flexibility is genuinely worth the extra size and cost.
πΏ The Toilet & Shower Question: Why Would You Go Without?
You'll notice that several vehicles in the 4-berth category are marked β οΈ No Toilet/Shower. It's a fair question: in 2026, why would anyone hire a motorhome without a bathroom on board?
What do you actually gain by going without?
Removing the toilet and shower cassette, wet room, and associated plumbing frees up a surprising amount of space and weight inside a motorhome. In some models, this allows the manufacturer to build a noticeably shorter or more compact vehicle β which directly translates to easier driving, better fuel economy, and access to campgrounds or sites that have height or length restrictions.
The other factor is price. No-bathroom vehicles are typically 15β30% cheaper per night than their bathroom-equipped equivalents, which adds up quickly on a long trip.
When does it actually make sense?
You're staying in powered caravan parks every night β with amenities blocks, a shared bathroom is perfectly fine for most travellers, especially families used to holiday park facilities.
You're on a tight budget β the saving is real, especially on a 3+ week trip.
You want the most compact vehicle possible β in Tasmania, the Gibb River Road, Fraser Island surrounds, or anywhere that size genuinely matters.
You're comfortable planning your overnight stops around amenities β which means caravan parks, roadhouses and campgrounds with facilities. Freedom camping off-grid becomes much harder without self-containment.
When should you always choose toilet and shower?
You want to freedom camp (self-contained certification required in most states)
You're travelling with elderly passengers or young children where night-time bathroom access matters
Your itinerary takes you to remote areas where facilities may be hours apart
You simply value privacy β especially on a longer trip
For most Australian road trips, we'd recommend choosing toilet and shower. The freedom to stop where you like, camp off-grid, and not plan your day around the next amenities block is genuinely worth the extra cost.
π 6-Berth Motorhomes: Full Breakdown
All 6-berth motorhomes listed here include toilet and shower as standard.
π THL Vehicles β Maui, Apollo & Mighty
These vehicles share the same depot network and roadside support across Australia. The differences come down to fleet age, finish and price point.
Why choose it: The pinnacle of the Maui 6-berth range. The newest possible fleet, hotel-quality interiors, leather finishes and three genuine sleeping zones make this the right call for three couples or a larger family who want to arrive and feel looked after. You're paying for the freshest vehicle and the best fit-out available in this category. - see Day/Night schematic above.Β
Why choose it: Nearly identical to the Elite in specs and layout β the difference is a slightly older fleet age and a friendlier price. Still a premium vehicle with all the Maui hallmarks. If the Elite is out of budget, this is the obvious next step down without any real sacrifice in comfort.
Why choose it: The River Elite is a genuinely interesting vehicle β a 6-berth in a more compact footprint, featuring a permanent bed setup that means no nightly conversions. The external slide-out cooker is a standout for alfresco dining. If you want Maui Elite quality in a vehicle that's easier to manoeuvre, this is the one to consider.
Why choose it: Same compact, permanent-bed layout as the River Elite, slightly older fleet and a lower price point. The external cooker and no-setup beds remain. A strong choice for travellers who want 6-berth capacity without the full length of a traditional large motorhome.
Why choose it: The Euro Deluxe delivers the same three-zone sleeping layout as the Maui equivalents at a mid-range price. The slightly wider fleet age (up to 4 years) is where the savings come from. Well-equipped, reliable, and backed by the THL network. A smart pick for groups who want the 6-berth experience without the premium price tag.
Why choose it: The no-frills way to get six people into a motorhome with a proper bathroom. Older fleet and fewer extras than the Maui and Apollo equivalents, but the same THL depot and roadside support network. If budget is the priority for a larger group, the Big 6 delivers the essentials at the lowest price point in this category.
Sleeping: Multiple sleeping zones β premium layout with maximum flexibility
Bathroom: β Toilet + shower
Fridge: 150L+
Power: Dual battery + 240V mains
Entertainment: Stereo, some models with screen
Extras: Awning, GPS, reverse camera, power steering
Why choose it: Star RV brings hotel-quality interiors to the 6-berth category. A genuine Maui alternative with premium positioning and newer fleet. Worth comparing directly against the Maui Sunset on price β Star RV often holds its own.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, outdoor chairs and table included, gas-electric water heater
Why choose it: Built on the Jayco chassis, the Royale brings Australian-made quality to the 6-berth category. Outdoor furniture is included (not an extra), and the gas-electric water heater is a practical bonus for off-grid nights. At nearly 9m, this is a larger vehicle β allow extra time and care when driving and parking.
π Cruisin Motorhomes & GoCheap β The Independent Front Runner
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks, 2 x 4kg gas bottles
Why choose it: Cruisin's entry into the 6-berth space brings the same outstanding spec that makes their 4-berth range so popular β big 125L water tanks, solid 160W solar, and Cruisin's legendary depot and support network. A strong mid-range 6-berth option backed by the best independent support in the country.
Sleeping: Over-cab double + rear lounge convert + additional zone
Bathroom: β Toilet + pressurised hot/cold shower
Fridge: 174β190L fridge/freezer
Power: 160W solar + 12V + 240V mains
Entertainment: Radio/Bluetooth/USB, TV/DVD
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks, 2 x 4kg gas bottles
Why choose it: Cruisin's standard 6-berth offers the same Cruisin foundation β solar, large tanks, excellent depot network β at a mid-range price. Check directly with DriveNow on the specific layout difference between the Discovery and this model, as configurations can vary by build year.
Sleeping: Over-cab double + rear dinette convert + additional zone
Bathroom: β Toilet + pressurised hot/cold shower
Fridge: 174β190L fridge/freezer
Power: 150W solar + 12V + 240V mains
Entertainment: Radio/Bluetooth/USB, TV/DVD
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks
Why choose it: The Derwent is essentially an older Cruisin 6-berth β same layout, same dimensions, same outstanding depot network, with a 4β7 year fleet age reflected in a lower price. If budget is the priority for a larger group, but you don't want to compromise on support infrastructure, this is a very smart pick. Same great Cruisin team behind it.
π 4-Berth Motorhomes: Full Breakdown
β οΈ Note on toilet & shower: Several 4-berth vehicles do NOT include a bathroom. These are clearly marked below. If self-contained freedom camping, remote travel, or overnight bathroom access matters to you, filter to bathroom-equipped models only.
Why choose it: The top of the Maui 4-berth range. Newest possible fleet, apartment-style interiors β leather sofas, warm neutral tones, hotel-quality linen. If you want the very best available 4-berth in Australia right now, this is it. Perfect for couples or families who want luxury without compromise.
Why choose it: Nearly identical to the Elite in specs β the difference is a slightly older fleet age and a friendlier price. Same contemporary design, fully equipped kitchen and premium feel. Perfect for couples or families wanting quality without the Elite price tag.
Why choose it: At 6.70m, the Cascade is significantly more compact than its Beach siblings β easier to drive, easier to park, and a genuine advantage on tighter Australian roads. The innovative rear layout and permanent drop-down bed mean less nightly setup. External slide-out cooker is brilliant for alfresco evenings. Note: top bed has a 200kg maximum weight limit.
Why choose it: Same compact 6.70m dimensions and innovative layout as the Maui Cascade β including the external slide-out cooker β at a mid-range price. The wider fleet age (up to 4 years) is where the savings come from. Note: top bed has a 200kg maximum weight limit.
Why choose it: The bigger sibling to the Euro Quest β the over-cab layout gives more interior room and the rear seats sit close to the driver's cabin, making it easy to keep an eye on kids. A strong family option at a mid-range price. Specs vary slightly between vehicle builds β check your specific booking.
Bathroom: β οΈ No toilet or shower β amenities block required
Power: Solar + 12V + 240V mains
Extras: Awning, microwave
Why choose it: The no-bathroom option from Apollo's 4-berth range. The removal of the wet room allows for a more compact, lighter build. If you're staying in powered caravan parks every night and budget matters, this is worth considering β but be clear-eyed about the limitations on spontaneous overnight stops and remote travel.
Sleeping: 3 Γ double beds β maximum sleeping flexibility
Bathroom: β Toilet + shower
Fridge: 150L
Power: Dual 12V battery + 240V mains
Entertainment: Stereo
Extras: Awning, GPS, reverse camera, power steering, 87L water tanks
Why choose it: The Polaris 4 is unique β the only vehicle in this category with three double beds, making it perfect for two couples or anyone needing three separate sleeping spaces. Hotel-quality interiors and premium positioning make it a genuine alternative to Maui. β οΈ Note: child/booster seats cannot be fitted β rear seats are rear-facing only.
π΅ Britz β Mid-Range (THL)
π΅ Britz Voyager β Mid-Range | β οΈ No Toilet/Shower
Vehicle age: Varies
Category: Mid-range
Sleeping: 4-berth layout
Bathroom: β οΈ No toilet or shower β amenities block required
Power: Solar + 12V + 240V mains
Extras: Awning, microwave
Why choose it: Britz's entry into the no-bathroom 4-berth category. Backed by the full THL depot network β which means the same roadside support and one-way trip flexibility as Maui and Apollo. Best suited to travellers who are comfortable planning their overnight stops around amenities facilities.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, outdoor chairs and table included, gas-electric water heater
Why choose it: The freshest fleet on the entire list at 0β1 years, built on the Jayco chassis with Australian-made quality. Outdoor furniture is included β not an extra. Note: at 8.97m this is a large vehicle for its category. Allow extra time and care when driving and parking β not ideal for first-time motorhome drivers.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, outdoor chairs and table included, 3 rear seatbelts, gas-electric water heater
Why choose it: Technically a 5-berth, the Excursion is grouped with 4-berths on DriveNow. Three beds, three rear seatbelts and all the Jayco build quality. If you have five in your group and don't want to step up to a full 6-berth motorhome, this is your vehicle. Note: larger vehicle β allow extra care when driving and parking.
Why choose it: The no-frills way to get a full bathroom on board in the budget tier. Same THL depot network and roadside support as Maui and Apollo, older fleet and fewer extras. Perfect for cost-conscious travellers who still want a private bathroom. No awning, no solar β but the essentials are there, and the price reflects it.
π° Mighty DeLite β Budget | β οΈ No Toilet/Shower
Vehicle age: 4+ years
Category: Budget
Sleeping: 4-berth layout
Bathroom: β οΈ No toilet or shower β amenities block required
Power: 12V + 240V mains
Extras: Microwave
Why choose it: Mighty's most affordable 4-berth option. No bathroom means a lighter, simpler vehicle at the lowest price point in the Mighty range. Backed by the THL support network. Suited to caravan-park-based itineraries where the saving on daily rate is a genuine priority.
Sleeping: 4-berth layout with permanent or fixed sleeping configuration
Bathroom: β οΈ No toilet or shower β amenities block required
Power: 12V + 240V mains
Extras: Microwave
Why choose it: Another no-bathroom budget option from Mighty β check with DriveNow on the specific layout differences between the DeLite and Double Down at time of booking, as configurations can vary. Both suit the same type of traveller: cost-first, caravan park-based, THL support network valued.
Extras: JUCY's signature fun branding and clever compact fit-out
Why choose it: JUCY brings their signature fun personality and clever fit-outs to the 4-berth space. Quirky, cheerful and well-priced β a popular choice for younger travellers or anyone who wants something a bit different. Bathroom included on the Crib Plus.
Extras: JUCY's signature styling and practical layout
Why choose it: The Condo is JUCY's other 4-berth option β check directly with DriveNow on the layout differences between the Crib Plus and Condo at time of booking. Both suit the same type of traveller: budget-conscious, independent spirit, fun-first attitude.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks, 2 Γ 4kg gas bottles
Why choose it: The Adventurer punches well above its price point. Big 125L water tanks (more than most competitors), solid 160W solar, TV/DVD and backed by Cruisin's outstanding depot and support network. Note: no reverse camera on this model.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks, 2 Γ 4kg gas bottles
Why choose it: The standout feature here is the permanent rear double β no converting the dinette, no fussing with cushions. After a long day on the road, you just crawl in. π΄ Same great Cruisin spec as the Adventurer, just with a fixed sleeping setup. Perfect for anyone who values simplicity at the end of the day.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks, 2 Γ 4kg gas bottles, power steering
Why choose it: Cruisin's flagship 4-berth β newer fleet (under 2.5 years), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a Smart TV. If you want the Cruisin experience with the freshest possible vehicle and best connectivity, this is the one. A clear step up from the Adventurer and Seeker on fleet age and tech.
Extras: Awning, flyscreen, microwave, 125L water tanks
Why choose it: The Henty is essentially an older Cruisin Adventurer β same layout, same dimensions, same outstanding Cruisin depot network, just with a 4β7 year fleet age reflected in a lower price. If budget is the priority but you don't want to compromise on support infrastructure, this is a very smart pick. No reverse camera; slightly lower solar than current Cruisin models.
Extras: Microwave, flyscreen, USB rear charging, dual battery, super-long wheelbase
Why choose it: By far the most compact vehicle on this list at 5.60m β easy to drive, easy to park, genuinely city-friendly in a way that larger motorhomes simply aren't. Interiors have been refitted recently (2021β2026 fit-outs). β οΈ Note: no grey water tank, no awning, cabin A/C only, battery needs mains recharge every 24β36 hours. Read the fine print before booking.
π Quick Comparison: 6-Berth vs 4-Berth at a Glance
Factor
6-Berth
4-Berth
Typical length
8.0mβ8.9m+
5.6mβ8.97m (varies widely)
Best for
3+ adults, two couples, larger families
Couples, families of 4, solo with kids
Permanent beds?
Usually 1β2 permanent beds
Varies β some permanent, some all-convert
Toilet & shower
β All models in this list
Most models β β οΈ check individual listings
Tight road handling
More challenging
Better β especially 6.7m compact models
Price
Higher nightly rate
Lower β budget options from ~$100/night
Interior space
More room for everyone
Comfortable for 4, less so for larger groups
Best budget pick
GoCheap Derwent / Mighty Big 6
GoCheap Henty / Mighty Double Up
Best premium pick
Maui Sunset Elite / Star RV Polaris 6
Maui Beach Elite / Star RV Polaris 4
π€ So Which Should You Choose?
π Choose a 6-Berth if...
You have 3 or more adults and everyone needs a real bed
You're travelling as two couples who each want their own sleeping space
Your itinerary is highway-based β coastal drives, major regional routes, caravan parks every night
You want to spread out and live comfortably with more bench space, storage and room to move
You're travelling for 3+ weeks and interior space will matter more as the trip goes on
π Choose a 4-Berth if...
You have 2 adults + 2 kids β the sweet spot for the 4-berth category
Your itinerary includes winding roads, national park drives or tighter destinations like Tasmania, the Great Ocean Road or WA's south-west
You want easier driving and parking β especially if you're new to motorhomes
You're travelling as a couple and don't need a 6-berth's extra size
Budget matters and you don't want to pay for space you won't use
π΄ If no-fuss bedtime is a priority:
Look at: Cruisin Seeker (4-berth, permanent rear double), Maui Cascade / Apollo Euro Quest (4-berth, permanent drop-down double), Maui River / River Elite (6-berth, permanent bed layout)
πΏ If toilet and shower is non-negotiable (and it should be for most trips):
All 6-berth vehicles on DriveNow include toilet and shower. In the 4-berth category, avoid the Apollo Endeavour, Britz Voyager, Mighty DeLite and Mighty Double Down if a private bathroom is important to you.
π° If budget is the priority:
6-berth: GoCheap Derwent or Mighty Big 6 4-berth with bathroom: GoCheap Henty or Mighty Double Up 4-berth without bathroom (cheapest option): Mighty DeLite or Mighty Double Down
π Final Word
The right size motorhome isn't the biggest one you can afford β it's the one that matches your group size, your itinerary and how you actually want to travel. A compact 4-berth on the Great Ocean Road is a joy. A spacious 6-berth on the Stuart Highway with three couples on board is equally the right call.
Once you know your numbers and your route, the choice usually becomes obvious. And the best way to compare everything side by side β prices, specs, availability β is on DriveNow.com.au using the GRID view on a laptop or desktop.
Shelley has been working in the travel industry for over 30 years, in aviation, for tour operators and since 2016 for DriveNow. Having travelled extensively worldwide, alone, as a couple and with her family, Shelley has experience to share about how to make the most of your holiday, especially road-trips to amazing destinations.
