The Australian outback may seem like a daunting landscape to explore, but for those adventurous enough to visit, it offers breathtaking views, unexpected wildlife encounters, and unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer, having the right Australian travel essentials is key to making the most of your trip.
If you’ve been dreaming about the ultimate outback camping adventure, now’s the perfect time to pack up the car, grab your trusty travel mugs filled with coffee, plan your route, and set off for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Find the Perfect Spot
National Park campsites are state-run, cheaper than private facilities, and typically offer very few amenities. While some sites may have running water, drop toilets, and rubbish disposal, others will offer nothing more than a place to park. If you are new to the environment, many camping experts strongly recommend staying within the safety of these designated areas.
When searching for the perfect spot to set up your camping site, there are a few important considerations to make. You want to choose a surface that is as flat as possible. If this is not an option, ensure your tent is pitched with your head slightly uphill compared to your feet.
You will also want to be aware of where the sun rises compared to the position of your tent. The Australian sun is notoriously harsh, and just a few hours of baking in the sunshine can quickly turn your tent into an unbearable sauna. However, like all desert areas, the outback gets incredibly cold overnight. If permitted, build your campfire downwind from your tent to avoid smoke collecting in your sleeping area. Additionally, ensure your tent is securely shut once you head to bed to prevent any unwanted guests from seeking shelter during the night.
Water
When traveling and camping in the Australian outback, the importance of water can never be overestimated. The sun is not your friend, and the dangers surrounding dehydration can quickly turn any adventure into a life-or-death situation. When walking around in the bush, you should drink roughly a liter of water every hour. Don’t rely on your body to indicate thirst, as you will already be dehydrated.
Additionally, you will need water for cooking, cleaning utensils and crockery, as well as personal hygiene. However, you should always prioritize your water supply for drinking, as it is a valuable commodity. Be sure to adequately research proper water safety while traveling to maintain a safe water supply throughout your trip.
Safety in Nature
People often joke that Australian nature is trying to kill you. While it has its fair share of dangerous and deadly wildlife, animals and bugs alike should not be a problem during your camping trip as long as you take the necessary precautions.
It is vital not to leave any food out that might attract wild animals or bugs to your site, ensure your tent is zipped and properly closed at all times, and be cautious around inland bodies of water that may contain crocodiles. When venturing into grass or bush around your campsite, wear sturdy, closed boots and make plenty of noise to deter anything coming too close to you.
Another crucial safety precaution involves safely building, maintaining, and extinguishing any campfires. It is vital to check any rules or regulations surrounding the building of fires in advance, as some parts of Australia have a strict ban against them. Furthermore, it is strictly forbidden to collect firewood and kindling in National Parks, so you will need to arrive prepared.
Traveling
When traveling in the outback, it quickly becomes apparent that the landscape doesn’t change too much. The longer you drive, and you will certainly encounter some long distances, the easier it is to become mesmerized by the intensely flat landscape that goes on as far as the eye can see.
Therefore, it is important to stop occasionally to get out of the car and stretch your legs, especially if you find yourself growing weary. You may be lucky enough to spot a rare snake or insect seeking shelter under a shady rock but do not venture away from the road or your vehicle during your short stops.
Essential Equipment
Beyond common camping equipment like a sturdy tent, comfortable sleeping bags, clothes, and a decent supply of water and food, there are a number of important essentials to pack for your next camping trip in Australia.
These must-haves include a mobile phone with an Australian SIM card and saved emergency numbers, bug spray, high-factor SPF sunscreen, torches or a headlamp for late-night trips to the bathroom, a well-stocked traveling first-aid kit, warm clothing to beat the chill once the sun sets, a brimmed hat and sunglasses, and a GPS unit as well as a map of the area you are going to be traveling in.
Additionally, it is vital to inform your friends and family of your traveling plans, timeline, and schedule should you fail to arrive home when expected. While there are communities that live throughout the outback, there is ample open space that you can easily get lost in should you wander off-track.
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