1. A fire extinguisher.

I am going to jump right past talking about proper tires, because I am going to assume you have that squared away, or the company you are hiring your 4WD camper from has taken care of it.

Next on your list should be a fire extinguisher. Rules and regulations in many parts of the world stipulate that this is a must for off-roading, so chances are good your rental company has already provided this as well.

Just make sure you know how to use it and understand what it is for. Obviously it is there partly to help you douse a fire in your vehicle, but it is also provided so that you have a shot at preventing a forest fire.

2. A recovery kit.

Another vital item is a recovery kit. This all-in-one kit provides you with the supplies you need to get a stuck vehicle un-stuck. Make sure that you are travelling with a high quality kit with sturdy gear, and that you keep it somewhere accessible. You never know if you will be able to get into the trunk of your vehicle if you do get stuck, so it is wise to keep it near the driver’s seat. That way you can be assured of reaching it when you need it.

3. A hi-lift jack.

This incredibly useful tool can be a lifesaver when you are off-roading. It can help get your vehicle un-stuck, and can be used as a stopgap solution if an axle shaft breaks. It also works for winching in a pinch, and can be used for a variety of repair jobs.

4. A work light.

You cannot assume that you will be able to get back up and running from every emergency before the sun sets. Be prepared with a hands-free work light which provides at least a few hours of bright light per charge. Bring extra batteries.

5. Recovery straps.

These may very well come with your 4WD rental, and are required in many locations if you are going to be off-roading. You can hook them up to another vehicle and pull on yours to dislodge it if you are stuck. Why not just bring tow straps? Recovery straps feature greater elasticity. This allows the vehicle that is doing the tugging to exert more force on the stuck vehicle. This in turn gives you a better chance at getting your vehicle dislodged.

6. Recovery boards.

While a winch or recovery straps can help get your vehicle un-stuck, what if you are looking for a safer, more moderate approach? And what if there is no other vehicle available to help tug you back up onto the track?

Consider bringing nylon recovery boards with you. You can use these to shovel mud, dirt and rocks out from around your tires, and then you can place them in front of your tires. Dig them slightly underneath, and then use them as ramps to drive up and out of the mud, snow, or so forth.

You will probably find some other uses for recovery boards as well. They are one of those all-around great supplies for off-roading and camping.

7. A tire repair kit.

You have a much higher chance of punching a hole in one of your tires off-roading than you do driving on the highway. Why take any chances? A tire repair kit may prevent you from getting a flat in a remote location where you’d have a hard time getting help. While you are at it, make sure you have a good air compressor.

8. A personal locator beacon.

Finally, what will you do if none of your gear is adequate for getting out of a jam? You will need to find a way to call for help. If you are in a desolate, remote area like the Outback, you may have no reliable way to do this visually. You do not want to be stuck relying on smoke signals, mirrors, and messages in the sand reading “SOS.”

Carrying a personal locator beacon can solve this problem. With a PLB, you can transmit an emergency signal for 24 hours or more. You register the device before you use it, so rescue workers who receive your signal immediately can identify you. With onboard GPS, your PLB tells the team exactly where you are. They can then come swiftly to your location to extract you from your predicament and return you safely to civilization.

With These Off-Roading Essentials, You Can Stay Safe on Your Adventures in Australia

You now know some of the most important gear to stock up on and bring with you on your 4WD off-roading trip. With these supplies on hand, you can hopefully stop a small emergency from turning into a big one. If you drive carefully and safely, you may never have to use these supplies, but you’ll be able to proceed with greater confidence and peace of mind knowing you have them. Good luck!

Before you get out on the road though, you need to take steps to stay safe. Weather conditions in Australia can sometimes change rapidly. Rainstorms and dust storms can impact the conditions of the roads, making some of them unsafe or even impassable.

So before you head out, you should begin by checking the status of the roads. Each state has its own portal for you to do this:

• Northern Territory: This site allows you to check the conditions of government roads, council roads and park roads throughout the Northern Territory.

• New South Wales: The NSW Live Traffic site allows you to look at a map of roads in NSW, updated live. While the focus is on traffic conditions, hazards such as flood and fire are also displayed.

• Queensland: Queensland also maintains an interactive map which displays roadwork, hazards, and traffic conditions.

• Victoria: Victoria’s interactive map shows road closures, traffic alerts and hazards.

• Western Australia: Here is the travel map which displays alerts, events, road work information and more for Western Australia.

• South Australia: SA maintains a simple but clear map displaying road conditions in the Outback. It is colour-coded to show you whether roads are open to all vehicles, open with caution, open only to 4WD vehicles, open to 4WD and heavy vehicles, or closed to all drivers. Clicking on the roads brings up details.

• Canberra: Transport Canberra and City Services also maintains a webpage for road hazards and closures.

Some of Australia’s park websites also maintain information about the status of roads traversing or leading in and out of the parks. It is wise to check these pages as well before you visit each specific park. Plus, some roads are too narrow for larger motorhomes, and you will need to be apprised of that before you plan your itinerary.

Another step you can take when you are close to your destination is to chat with the locals. Sometimes local residents will know about road hazards and closures long before that information is posted online. Remember, conditions may also have changed since you last checked the online updates as well.

Additional Tips for Driving Safely in Australia:

• If you see a sign warning you of hazardous conditions or telling you that your vehicle cannot safely drive on a road, turn back around, even if the obstacle was unexpected. While changing your plans can be disappointing, it is better to be safe than sorry.

• Do not try to drive through a dust storm in the Outback. Doing so is exceptionally dangerous. It is much wiser to pull over and wait until visibility has improved.

• If you are on an unsealed road, drive more slowly than you normally would.

• Before you get going, make sure you are aware of where petrol stations are located. There can be significant distance between them when you get away from civilisation, so you need to take advantage of opportunities to fill up when they present themselves.

• Have a good reason for choosing to go down an off-road track. If it does not help get you to your destination, you should avoid taking it.

• Be aware that the unexpected can and may occur while you are off-roading. Have a plan in place in case of emergencies. Hopefully your trip will proceed smoothly, but it is important to take precautions. If you do end up stranded, find or create shade, conserve your food and water as best you can, and look for ways to signal for help.

Focus on Safety While Planning Your Australia Road Trip, And You Can Focus on the Scenery While Driving

While planning your Australia road trip, it is tempting to focus mainly on the destinations you want to see and the roads which look most interesting. But it is also important to think about safety and to make sure that you are choosing roads which are suitable for your vehicle and check that the conditions will allow for your passage.

The more planning you put into the safety aspect of your trip, the more confident you can feel embarking on your journey into the Outback. You can then relax and enjoy the breathtaking Australian scenery in all of its grandeur.

Here are some tracks to add to your itinerary. Note that each of these quite literally qualifies as a “road less travelled,” so you will not find a lot of information about any of them online. Call the local ranger for detailed directions.

1. Mt. Victoria Link Road

You may only travel on this road if you are in a small campervan; caravans and trailers are prohibited since there is a five-ton weight limit. To find it, leave Ringarooma heading east and drive along the New River Road instead of turning onto the highway. You will see signs for Mt. Victoria Forest. The road is narrow and winding and takes you to lookouts for Cashs Gorge Circuit and Ralphs Falls. Both Ralphs Falls and the nearby St. Columbia Falls drop 90 metres, making them two of the tallest waterfalls in Tasmania.

2. Waterhouse Road

Travelling between Bridport and Gladstone, you have the opportunity to take an alternative scenic route called Waterhouse Road. This gives you access to explore the Waterhouse Conservation Area and even drive off-road on West Tomahawk Beach. You will find bush camping along Homestead Road and a caravan park at Tomahawk.

3. Old Port Road

This road is also located near Gladstone and takes you past old mine workings as well as water catchment dams. While there used to be bridges at Boser Creek and South Mount Cameron, one has collapsed and the others have burned, so you cannot currently use the Old Port Road as a through road. It makes a wonderful day trip and takes you through some gorgeous countryside!

4. St. Alban’s Bay

For a challenging driving along the coastline, take a trip along St. Alban’s Bay 4WD track. You can get there from Bridport by taking Sandy Points Road to Lades Beach. The track will take you through 22 kilometres of sand dunes and beaches until you reach Bellingham. This can make for an excellent overnight trip as there are a number of campsites along the way. While there are no amenities, these sites are sheltered and private and will get you away from the crowds. Opportunities abound for bird watching and fishing.

Launceston is a lovely and unique city to visit in Tasmania. While there is plenty to do in town, you would be remiss not to jump in your campervan and tour some of these 4WD tracks. These roads through Tasmania’s sand dunes and forests take you deep into the heart of the Tasmanian backcountry where others cannot venture. So take advantage of everything your 4WD camper has to offer—and remember to check track conditions and weather before you head out!

1. Cascade Dam Road – Easy

If you are visiting Derby in the northeastern corner of Tasmania, the Cascade Dam Road is an easy and rewarding 4WD adventure which is also accessible to some 2WD vehicles. Splitting off from the Tasman Highway at Derby Town Hall, it will take you on a climb up into the hills where you can see an irrigation dam which famously burst in 1929. The highlight of this trip is a scenic suspension bridge.

2. Mount William National Park – Easy

Another destination in the northeastern part of Tasmania is the 4WD track which is located in Mount William National Park. This is one of the best opportunities to see wildlife in Tasmania. Plan for an overnight trip if you can; that way you can see some of the nocturnal species like Tasmanian devils and brush-tailed possums.

3. South Arthur Forest Drive – Easy

This drive takes you from Kunnannah Bridge to Roger River. Along the way, you will journey through beautiful woodlands and will have the chance to picnic, hike, fish, or canoe. Highlights include Sumac Lookout and Lake Chisholm.

4. Peron Dunes (St. Helens Point Road) – Hard

While most of the tracks featured on this list are easy enough that even all-weather 2WD vehicles can handle them, Peron Dunes is challenging and you should only attempt it in a proper 4WD vehicle. Steep, loose sand can pose a hazard for 2WD vehicles, and you will need to deflate your tires to travel across the dunes. You will find campgrounds at Dianas Basin and Humbug Point.

5. Arthur River to Sandy Cape – Hard

Finally, if you are up for another challenge, one more 4WD adventure you won’t want to miss is the coastal drive from Arthur River to Sandy Cape, which you will find around 16 kilometres south of Marrawah. Because this is not an easy track, it is always wise to call ahead and ask the ranger about the track conditions.

This Aboriginal region features a number of protected heritage sites, often marked by archaeological shell middens. While you cannot take anything with you from these sites, they provide a wonderful educational insight into ancient life in the Sandy Cape region.

Any one of these 4WD tracks in Tasmania provides an abundance of opportunities to explore rugged coastal and inland parks off the beaten track. You will find there is so much to see and do in Tasmania that you will likely be planning your next visit before this one even ends!

This article will focus on 4WD campers and the benefits that they offer over motorhomes and campervans. Keep in mind that motorhomes and campervans also have their advantages. But if you find that a 4WD camper appeals to you after reading this article, it may very well be the right choice for your rental. Just keep in mind that 4WD rentals are typically a bit more expensive than campervans; this is because of the added cost to insure them (worth it if you are into off-roading).

1. 4WD campers are compact and easy to drive and park.

4WD campers have a low profile, a feature they share in common with campervans—but not motorhomes, which are generally quite large.

Motorhomes of course are able to fit in more luxurious features, but if you do not need all those features, their size can be problematic. It is harder to find a parking space to accommodate a larger vehicle, and even when you do, you may have to pay more for it.

With a 4WD camper, it is easy to find a parking space, and you will not have to pay extra. You also will find that the vehicle is much easier to manoeuvre, and that high winds have less of an impact while you are driving. This makes it much easier to transition into if you are used to driving smaller vehicles.

2. Some models include a toilet, shower, and kitchen facilities.

While many 4WD campers include only the basics, higher-end 4WD camper rentals may include additional amenities. Some models have a portable toilet and a functional shower (usually an outdoor solar shower)—unlike campervans, which rarely include either. Others may have a full-featured kitchen which includes a fridge, sink, and gas stove.

So staying in a 4WD camper can actually be as comfortable as staying in a large motorhome!

3. Expandable tents and pop-up roofs add space without compromising on the low profile.

How do higher-end 4WD campers manage to fit in so many excellent features while retaining their compact size? The answer generally takes the form of expandable tents and pop-up roof space. These features can be collapsed while you are driving, and expanded when you are parked. They provide you with additional sleeping and seating areas so that the rest of the vehicle space can be used for other features.

4. Your rental may include an extra-large fuel tank.

4WD campers are of course designed to drive off of major roads—where gas stations often are not available.

What this means for you is an extra-large fuel tank! Because the manufacturers of these vehicles know you may be out of range of a gas station for extended time periods, they outfit their vehicles to get you from point A to point B without having to refuel. That means fewer gas station stops, even if you stick to the main roads.

5. You can off-road in a 4WD vehicle.

The biggest benefit of a 4WD camper over a campervan or motorhome is right in the name: 4WD stands for “4 wheel drive!” 4WD vehicles can drive on unsealed roads or off-road surfaces which campervans and motorhomes cannot safely traverse. This opens up opportunities to explore Australia which take you far beyond what you could see and do in a campervan or a motorhome.

So now you know 5 great reasons to consider a 4WD camper over a motorhome or campervan—even with the added expense. These compact vehicles may not be quite as luxurious or spacious as motorhomes, but they are easy and affordable to drive and park, and they allow you to explore more of Australia’s beautiful Outback.

But what do you need to know about free camping in Australia before you start planning your itinerary? Do free campsites offer you the same level of quality and the same amenities as paid campsites? Let’s provide answers to some frequently asked questions so that you will be ready to plan your camping adventure.

Where is it legal to camp for free in Australia? Where is it not legal?

You cannot park your campervan or motorhome just anywhere. You must park in a specifically designated area in order to spend the night. If you are looking for a free spot in town (not a campground), search for signposts which read “RV Friendly Town.” Councils which post these signs know that you will probably spend money on food and gas before leaving town, so they are okay with you parking at no cost.

These free spots in towns are not that common along the coastline, which is heavily populated and has a lot more commercial parks. In smaller communities in the Outback however, you may find quite a few of these opportunities along with other overnight rest areas.

You will also find free campsites in many of Australia’s national parks. Bush camps which are free to camp in also are located off the main highway near smaller towns.

If you are looking for a place to sleep for the night while driving on a highway, “Rest Areas” are also a good option.

How do I find free campsites in Australia?

There are more than 4,000 sites you can use throughout Australia for free or low-cost camping. The best way to search for free campsites in Australia is to check online before you head out on your trip. There are a number of websites and apps which you can use to hunt down free campgrounds.

• Full Range Camping
• Caravan on Tour
• Australian Campsites
• WikiCamps
• Campin Australia

You can also visit national park websites, or call the parks directly and ask for information. Another useful option is to chat with locals and other tourists as you are travelling across Australia. This is one of the best ways to discover hidden bush camps near small towns.

What kinds of amenities will I find at free campsites in Australia?

Sometimes free campsites have toilets, but not always. Showers are less common, but you may still find them in some locations. So it is useful to travel in a self-contained camper. But if you are in a remote area, this may not be all that important. If you are tent camping in a secluded location after all, you do not expect a toilet to be available. If you have adequate privacy, you can get by without one. Bring toilet paper and a plastic bag with you. Bury your waste, but do not leave toilet paper behind. Throw it in a rubbish bin.

What are the water and fire rules and availability?

Each camp has different rules when it comes to fires and barbecuing, and they may or may not be written down. Check in advance to see if there are any written rules about open fires and collecting firewood. If open fires are not permitted, then you will want to have a gas cooktop. If you are staying in a national park, you may not collect firewood, whether there is a sign posted or not. You have to bring your own if fires are allowed.

Some sites have safe, drinkable water, while others do not. You should always bring your own water supply with you everywhere you go, just to be safe.

Will my phone get reception?

Maybe, maybe not—it all depends on the campsite. Many free campsites in Australia are quite far-flung and may be far out of range. For this reason, you should consider bringing a set of two-way radios with you.

Are free campsites in Australia clean?

Some free campsites in Australia are clean and well-kept-up, while others are not. It depends partly on whether other campers have been courteous and removed their rubbish, but also on how often camp administrators get out to check the place out. Check out reviews while planning your trip to get an idea what you can expect.

What do I do with my trash?

If rubbish bins are provided at the site, you should dump all allowable waste inside. If you have any rubbish which is not permitted in the bins (or there are no bins), then take it with you when you leave and dispose of it in another location. Do not leave your trash lying around.

Are free campsites in Australia safe?

Generally speaking, yes, they are quite safe. The vast majority of travellers in motorhomes visiting Australia are middle-aged and senior couples. Most of the people you encounter will be friendly and will want to trade travel stories with you. But if you want to be left alone, you will find plenty of secluded sites where you can enjoy your privacy.

What are the basic etiquette rules?

Be mindful of the hours you drive into and out of free campsites; try not to disturb sleeping travellers early in the morning or late at night. Remember, a lot of campers have driven a long way and are very tired. So watch your noise levels as well, especially after 9:00 pm.

When you set up, make sure you do so a reasonable distance away from others so that everyone has the privacy they need. Be careful not to block access roads.

Follow the rules regarding fires, wood and rubbish. If water is available, be sparing with your use of it, especially in arid regions.

Many parks have a donation box. If you can afford it, consider leaving something so that the site can remain open for others.

How long can I stay?

That depends on the campground that you are staying at. Free campgrounds are not intended for long-term stays, so most of them have strict time limits. Check signage in the campground and look online. You can also ask around to find out what the maximum stay is.

Conclusion: Free Campgrounds in Australia Help You Cut Back on Travel Costs

Australia’s thousands of free and low-cost campgrounds provide you with an amazing alternative to paid campgrounds and hotels. The majority of them are clean, safe, and set in beautiful surroundings, oftentimes in or close to the national parks that you are journeying to see in your campervan or motorhome. When you save on accommodations costs, you can put that money toward other aspects of your trip—like extending your vacation for a longer stay and exploring even more of what the Land Down Under has to offer!

Thinking of renting a recreational vehicle?  There are few better ways to take in the sights Down Under than by hitting the road!  The vehicle you choose will have a huge impact on your experience.  Each type offers different options for sleeping, cooking, dining, and comfort.  Let’s take an in-depth look at the different options available, their features, and pros and cons.  You’ll then be able to make the perfect rental choice for your next vacation!

Station Wagon

If you are looking for a simple, low-cost, no-frills option which is ideal for one or two travelers or a small group (up to five), then a station wagon may be the perfect option.  A station wagon can comfortably seat two people in the front and up to three in the back.  During the day, the back can be used to store a tent and supplies.  At night, it can be converted into a double bed.

Campervan

This is another popular compact option for hitting the road.  A campervan, also sometimes known as a camper or caravanette, is exactly what it sounds like.  It’s a van which is outfitted with furnishings, storage space, and a sleeping area.  Some campervans even include kitchenettes, showers, and toilets (rare).

There are two main types of campervans:

• Low Top Campervan
• High Top Campervan

The difference is exactly what you might imagine.  A “low top” campervan has a lower roof, while a “high top” campervan offers extra vertical space.  You can stand up comfortably in a high-top model, though a low-top model may be more budget-friendly.

High-top campervans also tend to be better equipped than their low top cousins, and they can sleep more people.  Low-top campervans usually sleep two, whereas high-top models may include up to five berths.  With a low-top model, you will have a sink or fridge, usually in the back, and you won’t be able to stand up fully.  You also may only be able to sleep in the back, not sit.

If you rent a high-top model, you will be able to stand up fully (you may need to crouch a little if you are tall).  There is usually a full dining area in the back where you can sit, and you can sleep at the top or bottom.  The fridge and microwave are usually located up  near the front of the vehicle.

The majority of campervans do not offer a toilet or shower, but a few high-top models do.

Motorhome

Like the idea of traveling in a campervan, but looking for more luxury and comfort?  A motorhome is very much like a campervan, but it offers you a lot more in the way of space and features.  In fact, just as the name “motorhome” implies, many people are full-time RVers living in motorhomes.

What’s the Difference Between a Motorhome and a Campervan?

Good question.  The two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, and there is some ambiguity between them.  Generally speaking, however, a motorhome is a larger vehicle and is self contained (all liquids such as water and waste are stored under the cabin). Motorhomes tend to be more comfortable and include more features, such as a toilet and shower inside the vehicle.

4WD Camper

Why settle for hitting the road when you can also journey off-road?  With a 4-wheel drive (4WD) camper, you can!  These vehicles are perfect for going off the beaten track and exploring Australia’s backcountry on unsealed roads.  Many models are roomy enough that you can sleep inside; others require you to set up a tent or sleep on the roof.

You should now have a great idea which type of recreational vehicle will offer you the space, convenience, and comfort you are looking for on your road trip Down Under!  Still looking for suggestions?  Give us a call at 02 8488 6893 and we’ll hook you up with the perfect campervan rental for your dream vacation!

Why stick with four wheels when you can have six? This luxury off-road Global XRS 7200 weighs in at 18-tonnes and costs over $1 million dollars!

The vehicle was designed by Action Mobil, a company founded by Stefanie and Otfried Reitz, both advertising executives at the time.  They needed a vehicle to travel through the backcountry of Africa for a photo shoot, and 4×4 vehicles simply weren’t cutting it.  Eventually they decided to come up with their own solution, and the Global XRS 7200 was born.

Why the 6×6 drive model, instead of the typical 4×4?  For one thing,the two extra wheels add redundancy, protecting the vehicle in case something goes wrong, like a puncture.  For another, six wheels exert less pressure on the ground than four wheels.This means that it’s less likely the vehicle will sink into soft mud. The vehicle can better handle slippery surfaces which lack friction.Plus, the 6×6 design offers more comfort.

Speaking of comfort, Action Mobil thought of it all.  The exterior of this vehicle may look rugged, but the interior is downright luxurious.  Check out the beautiful paneling and countertops.  The kitchen is equipped with a Gaggenau induction cooktop and steam oven.  There’s a fridge and freezer for perishables.  The Global XRS 7200 is also equipped with a full washer and dryer.  The dinette set can be converted into a bed for additional sleeping space.  The bathroom has a sink, toilet, and shower.

What about power?  For long journeys off-road, you have two sources of power you can rely on.  The 720Ah lithium-ion battery with 5,000 watt inverter charges while you are on the road.  If you run out of battery power, you have nothing to worry about with a 1,440-watt solar panel on the roof.  This vehicle is ready for adventures deep into the back country or for serious off-the-grid living.

Not the most expensive motorhome but without a doubt, this is one of the coolest recreational vehicles we’ve ever seen!  It just goes to show what manufacturers and designers can achieve when they let go of traditional conceptions about design.  Four-by-four campers can be great, but they don’t hold a candle to this impressive 6×6 model!