Pack your supplies
You’ll need to pack lots of water, food and petrol when travelling through the Australian outback. There’s no guarantee you’ll come across another service station in a day and there are very few chances to stop for supplies. Fill an esky with frozen water bottles to keep food cooler for longer. Don’t forget emergency phones if you’re heading off the beaten track.
Know your car
If you don’t feel comfortable with the car you’re taking, get to know it better. Driving between towns in the outback can take anywhere between a couple of hours to a whole day so there’s a good chance you’ll spend more time in your car than out of it. Always stop at the first sign of car troubles to prevent further damage.
Tell people where you’re going
Make sure someone knows where you are and when, just in case you get lost. It’s always better to be safe than sorry so plan ahead. Don’t forget to take with you the numbers of the caravan parks, camp sites, national parks or motels you’re stopping at along the way so you can let them know if you’re lost, running late or changing your plans.
Stay with your vehicle if you break down
It’s much easier to spot a car on the side of the road than it is to spot a person hiding in the shade so stay with your vehicle and call for help if you break down.
Always drive with your lights on
The sun may always shine across the Australian outback but dusty conditions can make it difficult for other drivers to see you approaching. Keep your lights on to warn them of your presence.
What are your tips for surviving a road trip through the Australian outback?
