How to prepare for an outback trip
Exploring our own backyard is considered a rite of passage for grey nomads and a growing number of younger Australians eager to seek out the natural beauty of our wide brown land. The popularity of SUVs and 4WDs is well documented, and they provide a ready-made option for long-distance travel as well as an ability to tow heavier camper trailers, caravans and boats with relative ease.
Old hands will tell you to pack for the unexpected when heading into the never-never and nearly everyone has an opinion on the best type of tyre. There are a lot of choices – highway terrain (HTs), all terrain (ATs) and mud terrain (MTs), to name a few – and that’s without getting into different brands and serious off-road tyres.
You first need consider the driving scenarios you’re heading into. If you’re sticking to the tarmac and occasional dirt, then HTs (generally what’s factory fitted) will be up to the job. If the plan is to get off the tarmac for long stretches, the stronger construction and open tread pattern of ATs are worth considering for better traction. Just remember, even if the tread depth is legal, tyres over five years old will have hardened and are less safe in the wet and more prone to failing under load.
While Google Maps is the default for travellers nowadays, I like to pore over a paper map of a region and a current road atlas is an even better tool to have in the kitbag as it lets you research surrounding areas. I like the sense of perspective they offer and there’s often a lot of useful info attached.
What else do you need? You could carry every conceivable spare part, adding unnecessary weight to your rig, and still not have the right one if you break down. If your vehicle is older, it’s wise to replace consumables like radiator hoses and fanbelts, and change all the fluids before you head off.
The same applies to a trailer – pay special attention to the springs, spring centre bolts, axle U-bolts, shackles and welded mounting points on the chassis. Trailer brakes require periodic inspection and servicing and linking that to the tow vehicle’s service schedule is prudent for an extended trip.
Don’t know your way around a toolbox? Keep it simple: a roll of duct tape and tie wire, plus a few screwdrivers and pliers, can often jerry-rig a leaking hose, loose cabling or even a broken bumper to keep you going until the next town.
A recovery strap is also worth packing in case you drive off the road shoulder and into the soft stuff, so you can get assistance from a fellow traveller.
Finally, have a look at your roadside assistance coverage and consider upgrading to the highest package. This provides additional benefits in remote areas as well as breakdown travel assistance perks you wouldn’t ordinarily want or need around town.
