Australia Driving In The Outback

Driving is the easiest—and, sometimes, the only—way to get around the Australian Outback. Public transportion is limited in the areas outside major cities; offroading is a way of life there. However, if you plan to drive, be prepared for some very long roadtrips. Also, certain roads and national parks are inaccessible without a 4WD vehicle. If renting, be aware that rental companies have complicated policies. Be sure you fully understand how many kilometers you are allowed to drive, where you are allowed to drive (many don’t allow clients to take 2WD vehicles on roads not maintained by the government, making some parks inaccessible), and what your insurance plan does and does not cover (windshield dings, scratches, underbody damage from sharp rocks, flat tires, and kangaroo collision damage are all common problems that can result in hefty fines). See Costs and Insurance for more info.

If you’re spending a significant amount of time on the road, you might want to consider an automobile club membership, which can provide roadside assistance. The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) provides roadside assistance and has reciprocal relationships with automobile associations in other countries (see Essentials ). Roadside assistance is generally limited to sealed (bitumen) roads and is restricted to electrical and mechanical breakdown. An excess fee applies to most other problems (such as damage caused by rocks, trees, or animals). Extra charges also apply to assistance outside coverage zones. Talk to the state AAA office about coverage details before embarking.

If you’re using a 4WD and you’ve never driven one before, it may be worth taking an introductory lesson. Many rental companies offer half- and full-day classes. Make sure you have up-to-date, accurate maps; regional topographic maps are particularly useful. Also, inquire locally about road conditions.

Vehicle Supplies. Australia’s vast expanses mean that roadside assistance is often hundreds of kilometers away, making it crucial that travelers always carry their own emergency vehicle supplies. Rental companies should supply breakdown kits and may also offer survival packs, which are charged only if opened (around $90). You’ll probably have to pick up additional supplies on your own. The most important of these is extra fuel. If your vehicle doesn’t have one long-range or two regular fuel tanks, secure at least one extra tank of fuel in a metal safety can in your trunk (so it doesn’t slosh around). Plastic cans are cheaper, but they are also more apt to spill, creating noxious fumes and a fire hazard. Other essentials include: two spare tires and a jack (as well as a jack plate if you’ll be driving on unsealed roads); jumper cables; a wrench; Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers (both small and large, and long enough to reach concealed engine spaces); pliers (a bigger pair for gripping larger items and a needle-nosed pair for reaching into tight spots); a knife; a flashlight; and extra oil, coolant, clean water, and hose sealant. Also important are a new battery (if your current one is old or corroded) in static-resistant, absorbent packaging; road flares; a tire iron and pressure gauge; extra fan belts, rope, and sheeting; a compass; blankets; and food. Useful but nonessential items include duct tape, extra windshield washer fluid (for especially dusty treks), an ice scraper, a funnel, tow rope, a spray bottle filled with glass cleaner, rags, and matches.

One of the simplest ways to get yourself stalled in the middle of nowhere is to overlook your battery’s charge. If it’s old or corroded, get a new one before heading out. Roadside supply stops are rare, so self-sufficiency is a must. Water is most important; carry at least two liters of water per person per day. Also bring ample food. You’ll need light clothing for the day, sturdy boots for hiking, and warm clothes for nights (when the temperature in some parts of the country can fall below freezing). Safety first: bring a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher. Cell phones do not work in remote areas of the Outback, but smart bushwalkers swear by the Electronic Position Indicator Radio Beacon (EPIRB). For more info, see Wilderness Safety.