Getting ready for your off road camping trip

Before you set out on your next camping trip with your off road camping trailer, it’s important to take safety precautions into account. If you aren’t properly prepared before you set off to remote places and subject yourself to harsh conditions, your camping holiday can easily turn into a disaster. If your vehicle breaks down or there is some other incident, you’re unlikely to be rescued by the RACQ or other emergency services if you’re in the middle of nowhere and incommunicado. Make sure you take note of these top safety precautions before you venture out into the great unknown.

Driver abilities

Make sure you are confident with your 4wd driving skills. A 4wd training course will give you a refresher in these as well as give you experience in recovery techniques and vehicle maintenance. If you don’t know what tyre pressures you’ll need for different situations, how to cross a creek safely or recover your vehicle from being stuck in sand, then it’s certainly advisable to get the right training. If you’re towing a tent trailer, then any situation where you get stuck will seem a lot worse than if you only had the 4wd vehicle to consider.

Vehicle maintenance

Before you disappear over the horizon, make sure your 4wd vehicle and camping trailer are prepared for the rough terrain ahead. Have them checked out and if your vehicle’s due for a service, get it booked in at a reputable service centre.
In addition, you should plan to take spares to reduce the risk of you being stranded in the middle of nowhere without a chance of your vehicle being recovered by the RACQ. They recommend that you carry at least two spare tyres, fuses, cables, tape, wire, lubricants and a workshop manual for your vehicle. They also recommend that you take a tow rope and a fire extinguisher.

Don’t forget to take a toolkit with you so that you can fit these spares in the event of an emergency. This should include spanners, screwdrivers, socket wrenches, tyre pump and of course a vehicle jack. Lastly, take a satellite phone or UHF radio with you so that you can call for help if you need to.

Passenger comfort

After you’ve ensured your 4wd driving skills are up to the task and that your 4wd vehicle and tent trailer have been checked over, you also have a responsibility toward the comfort and safety of your passengers.

Most importantly, you need to make sure that you have enough water, fuel and basic food supplies to cover everybody for a number of days. The RACQ recommends taking a minimum of 7 litres of water per person per day. In addition, you should ensure your passengers are bringing the appropriate clothing for the climate and protection from the sun. It’s also your responsibility as the driver to make sure you have adequate first aid equipment for the trip. You can buy fully equipped remote area first aid kits online if required.

Explore the remoteness of Australia’s beautiful outdoors safely and you’ll be sure to have a camping holiday to remember – for the right reasons!