Planning a Long Trip in the Outback? 4 things you MUST have!
Planning a Long Trip in the Outback? 4 things you MUST have!
Travelling in the outback is as challenging as it is rewarding. And whilst going off the grid and enjoying the great Aussie outdoors can seem like a wild and liberating thing to do, it does also take careful planning. So before you drop everything and head into the wilderness, let’s take a look at four essential things you’re going to need on your trip. Planning a long trip in the outback? Here are 4 things you must have!
1. The right set of wheels
You wouldn’t go mountain biking with a road bike and you wouldn’t go surfing with an ironing board. So, why on earth would you spend weeks or months in the outback in anything other than an off-road caravan?
This is undoubtedly the most expensive and important purchase you’ll make on your trip, but it’s also the most essential. Having a caravan that can travel along any kind of road or dirt track is crucial, so make sure you go to a reputable extreme off-road caravan manufacturer.
Of course, we’re not just talking about literal wheels here. We’re talking about everything you need for comfort as well as survival. When choosing your caravan, make sure you pay attention to the floor plan. If you’re travelling as a family, you might prioritise larger living and storage areas whereas if you’re travelling alone, you might prefer a larger bed for comfort. There are many different models available on the market, so do your research before making any commitments.
2. Clothes for all temperatures
If you’re going on a long trip, you’re likely to encounter some crazy differences in temperature. It’s therefore essential to pack the right clothes.
Make sure to pack one fleece, a beanie and some gloves for cold winter nights and early mornings. Other essentials include long hiking pants (zip-off versions are great light packing as they can double up as shorts), long sleeve and short sleeve tops, shorts and swimmers. Strong and supportive hiking boots will be suitable for most weather and sturdy sandals are also great for hot days.
3. Gadgets
Though it’s not exactly high tech, a water bottle will be your best friend on a long trip in the outback. Take a few bottles of various sizes so that whether you’re going out on a day hike or need several litres for a long drive on a hot day, you have something suitable to hand. And if possible, try to invest in bottles that can keep water cold. Though they are more expensive than a bog-standard plastic bottle, you’ll be extremely grateful for this on a hot summer’s day. It’s also a wise idea to pack a water filter as reliable water sources may be few and far between!
Headlamps and torches can also be extremely handy. Whether you’re emptying the toilet in the middle of the night or firing up a late-night barbie, a headlamp will be an absolute lifesaver.
Another extremely handy gadget is a solar-powered charger. This means that you can keep all your devices such as cameras, phones and anything you can attach to a USB cable charged up without using electricity or battery power.
4. Toiletries and medical products
As awesome as it is, camping in the outback can get a bit sticky and messy. Being prepared with the right toiletries and medical products is therefore essential. From suncream and lip balm to insect repellant and anti-histamines, having a full kit prepped before you go will make the world of difference to your comfort wellbeing. Baby wipes are a fantastic item to have onboard for those infamous ‘bush-showers’ and moisturiser is also essential year-round. Another absolute essential is a medical-grade first aid kit. Even though you hope not to need it, it’s important to have it just in case.
A long trip in the outback can be hard work, but with careful planning and clever packing, you can enjoy it in comfort and style. If you’re on a budget, don’t be afraid to invest in high-quality products such as solar-powered chargers and keep-cool water bottles. Although they might cost more than their basic alternatives, they will save you so much money, energy and pain once you’re out on the road!
Featured Photo by Veronika Nedelcu on Unsplash
