Remote Australia is a diverse and challenging environment that spans a vast amount of our country. It holds untold rewards for construction companies, geological expeditions, and in the pure enjoyment of a remote adventure.
Australia’s “local backyard” is not necessarily dangerous to travel through, but proper planning and preparations are required because it can be quite unforgiving. With temperatures ranging from minus ten through to fifty degrees Celsius, and some remote sections having no mobile network coverage, an unprepared party could quickly find themselves dehydrated, lost, or both.
It is for these reasons that proper thought needs to be put into preparing to take an off-road vehicle into regional areas.
Knowing where you are going
The first step in preparing for an off-road journey is planning the route. This allows drivers to learn the road conditions in the area, the locations of amenities, and any potential hazards. Learning the road conditions will give drivers information regarding the locations of sealed and unsealed roads which can help determine what style of vehicles would be best suited.
By knowing the whereabouts of all the amenities on the route, a determination can be made with regards to how many, if any, additional fuel canisters would be needed based on the expected range of the vehicle.
Due to the varied nature of the Australian outback, learning about any potential hazards will go a long way in identifying what additional items should be carried.
- Is the route prone to flooding?
- Is there a high presence of local wildlife or cattle on the route?
- Is there a communication network within the area?
Once the path has been plotted and these elements have been researched, the party can select the necessary equipment to take.
Packing the right gear for the journey
By knowing the expected conditions on the proposed route, drivers will be able to select the right gear to get them safely to their destination.
Fresh drinking water is always a necessity, and there should be several days’ worth of water per person on the off chance they are stranded in a remote area. Adequate food should be brought for the very same reason, and preferably food that will keep in the harsh climate of the outback.
First aid kits and snake bite kits should also form part of the standard equipment. Always make sure that the first aid kits are complete, and any medications or anti-venoms are within the expiry date.
A fully charged fire extinguisher which has been checked and tested by approved authorities should also be kept on board.
These items should form the basics of what is to be brought in the vehicle. From here, the kit can grow based on any known hazards along the route. For instance, if the area is prone to flooding, a snorkel may be required. Australian wildlife can bound across the road at a moment’s notice, so fit a bullbar to the vehicle to prevent serious injury to any passengers from any stray animals that may veer into its path.
By planning and preparing for the route, a lot of the risk can be reduced from the journey through the outback. These tips are by no means a comprehensive list of what to include for the journey but should give drivers an insight into what elements need to be considered.
A lot of the stress can be taken out of preparing for your next expedition by hiring a purpose equipped vehicle from the professionals here at Cedrent. Because of the great range of options available, the short or long term hiring of one of these vehicles can work out to be much more cost effective than buying extra equipment and hoping you’ve got it all covered.
If you are planning a road trip into remote areas out of South Australia, or the Northern Territory, we invite you to call us today to discuss your requirements, on 08 8261 1025.