Travel Safety Tips For Outback Australia

Australia's ’Outback’ is beautiful, you will discover lonely stretches of road with different views around every bend for hundreds of kilometres and be amazed at the landscapes. With the proper equipment, common sense and a little knowledge you can visit the Outback and see it’s wonders.

Adequate preparation is essential before deciding to Travel  Outback Australia. Prior to leaving, planning and preparation must be organised and do this well before packing your vehicle. Consider these travel safety tips for all persons travelling in your vehicle and other road users. The Outback can be very remote in some places between towns and extreme care must be taken. If possible travel with another vehicle.

Equipment Required  The camping equipment and vehicle and accessories you are taking must be in good working condition and suitable for the trip. Your maps should cover the entire area of the planned destinations.

Communications  For close range between vehicles a UHF ot VHF radio maybe used, carry an HF radio compatible with the RFDS. Mobile phones and CB radios will not usually work in remote areas. HF radios and accessories can be bought from communications shops.

Types of Terrain  Study a map to ascertain what types of roads you will be travelling on, sealed, main gravel roads or 4WD roads or tracks.

Where can fuel and water be accessed?

What is the best way for you – main roads or gravel  4WD roads

What will you use for navigation eg,. maps, GPS navigator

Is there an alternate route if necessary

Using Maps  Driving in the Outback can be monotonous with few landmarks  & signposts. Have a very detailed up to date map, especially if you are going on remote roads. Take note of your position on the map in case you need to confirm your position if needed.

The Weather  Be aware of the weather conditions for where you are going generally May to August are the best times to visit the Outback. If heavy rain occurs this may cause flash flooding and authorities may have to close roads.

How long do you have?  Before leaving work out how much time you have to be away. Workout your itinerary - leaving and approximate day your returning, where you intend to stay and camp, be flexible in your plans and only book a few days ahead. Occasionally you may be held up waiting for a fuel delivery, a vehicle repair etc. or you have found somewhere you want to stay for a few extra days.

Before leaving home notify someone of where you are going and when you intend to return. Also arrange to keep in contact with them or someone else at least once a week.

I have travelled around Central Australia and Northern Australia and seen many spectacular sights and have taken many photos which quite often feature the red earth or rocks, the green foliage and a beautiful blue sky.