A good question.
A local answer.

Check current local recovery and road notices before entering any area affected by a recent disruption. A fallback should avoid adding pressure to a community still managing damage.

Check the real sleeping layout and seatbelts before comparing vehicle prices. Four adults and luggage can make a nominal four-berth van feel cramped.

Choose the direction based on season and interests. South-west towns can combine forests, coast and food; a northern route offers a different coastline but may involve longer driving gaps.

Use current menus and recent opening information to shortlist by food, not just distance. Some kitchens close earlier than their bar or venue hours suggest.

Treat the Pinnacles and nearby coast as one focused northern outing. Decide whether to stay overnight by how much time you want there and whether a same-day return would end after dark.

Do not rely on the seat count alone. Ask the rental company for the exact model, usable luggage space with ten occupied seats, and how many approved child restraints it can fit.

Look at dining and grocery choices near the exact address, particularly for late arrivals. Beach accommodation can vary from hotel-style service to self-catering apartments.

Choose bikes only if everyone is comfortable with distance, hills and wind. The island bus or a mixed bike-and-bus plan may suit a group better than expecting all five people to ride all day.

Check Transperth's timetable for your exact day and direction, including weekend or holiday changes. Then add the time from Airport Central station to the terminal you use.

Try a good continental roll from a long-running local deli. Compare current opening hours and go at lunch, when the bread and fillings are most likely to be fresh.

If the return branch is far from your final activity, compare a round trip or flight plus local rental. The simplest itinerary can be cheaper than paying to move a vehicle across the state.

Consider the Perth Hills or Swan Valley for a short stay with walks and food without a long drive. Choose accommodation near the specific activities you want, as the areas are spread out.