Melbourne to Adelaide
Melbourne to Adelaide along the Western Highway and Dukes Highway is 725 km and 7h 30m. Flights are fast but pricey, the train is infrequent, and the bus takes 10 hours. A RideMates carpool splits the fuel between three or four people and runs at half the cost of a flight.
Distance
725 km
Drive time
7h 30m
Seat from
$45
Cost comparison
Melbourne to Adelaide, every which way
Carpool
$45 to $63
per seat on RideMates
Flight
$130 to $220 one way
plus bags and transfers
Bus
$80 to $140 on Firefly
slower, more stops
Drive solo
around $189 in fuel
fuel and wear, before tolls
Why RideMates
Why carpool this route?
Half the price of a flight
Jetstar and Rex between Melbourne and Adelaide regularly cost $150+ with bags. A RideMates carpool seat is around $54 and skips the airport.
The Grampians and the Coorong on the way
Drivers often take detours through the Grampians or stop at Tailem Bend. You'll see more of Australia than you do at 35,000 feet.
No luggage limits
Moving between Melbourne and Adelaide? Carpool drivers often have boot space for multiple bags at no extra charge.
On the way
Common stops between Melbourne and Adelaide
Most drivers take a break somewhere along the route. Some will drop passengers off here too.
FAQ
Melbourne to Adelaide questions
How much is a carpool from Melbourne to Adelaide?
Typical Melbourne to Adelaide carpools cost $46 to $62 per seat. Drivers keep 100% of the fare they set.
How long is the drive?
Direct drive is 7h 30m via the Western and Dukes Highways. With a meal stop and a leg stretch, most rides run 8 hours.
Can I be dropped off in a regional town?
Yes. Drivers will often stop in Ballarat, Horsham, Bordertown, or Murray Bridge. Check the driver's route when booking.
What's the cheapest way to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide?
A RideMates carpool is usually the cheapest option, coming in at half the cost of a flight and less than a long-distance bus.
Further reading
More on the Melbourne to Adelaide run
More carpools from these cities
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