Beach driving safely with your camper trailer

Beach driving is an exhilarating experience for any driver. Australia's beaches provide the perfect setting for many activities and adventures. Off-road camping, fishing and swimming are just a couple of ways to enjoy the fantastic stretches of sand and scenery.

Taking a 4WD vehicle and camper trailer off the road and onto the beach is often the best way to reach your ideal location, but you should be careful not to get too carried away. As beautiful and exciting as beach driving is, even an experienced driver needs to follow the rules in order to stay safe.

First off, you should always check that your vehicle and trailer tent are allowed on the beach you want to drive on. A permit might be required and certain regulations put in place to keep everyone on the beach safe. Make sure you check this out before setting off. Also, ensure if you hire a vehicle that you are allowed to take onto the beach. You don't want your experienced ruined by getting in trouble with your hire company.

When you are planning a trip that involves beach driving, be sure to prepare yourself and your 4WD vehicle correctly. Don't forget to take emergency equipment, such as a shovel and tow rope, in case you get stuck in the sand and always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. It's preferable to travel in convoy of at least two vehicles if visiting remote areas; if you need it, it could be a long way to get help otherwise.

It may seem obvious but the hard sand between the waterline and the high tide mark is the safest place to drive on. Ignore the commercials that show brand new 4x4s splashing through the waves - it's not safe or good for the car and trailer tent to drive through water. You should also take care not to drive on sand dunes or the debris line, as dunes are important to the eco-system. Only cross at designated points and be careful not to churn up plants.

Keep your eyes out for other people on the beach. Drive at a safe speed so you have time to avoid obstacles and don't risk flipping the vehicle or losing control of the steering from sudden braking. The excitement and freedom of beach driving shouldn't be an excuse to get carried away. As the driver, you are responsible for the safety of your vehicle, camping trailer, passengers and other people using the beach.

Lower your tyre pressure to assist your 4WD vehicle. Stay within the specifications for your vehicle, bearing in mind how much weight you are carrying and the softness of the sand, but take 18-20psi as a rough guide. Remember to increase the tyre pressure again once you have left the beach or are traveling over much firmer ground. Take your time; it's worth it to stay safe.

Finally, always make sure you are in a 4WD when beach driving. Normal vehicles can't handle the softer surface and it is essential to be in control while driving on sand. The guidelines for beach driving might seem a lot to take in, but any rules or notices put in place are there for your and others' safety. Obey the rules and have fun!

Beach driving is an incredible experience. Enjoy Australia's amazing scenery and long stretches of beautiful beach. Make sure you are prepared for off-road driving, especially beach driving, and make the most of your off road camping trip while keeping everyone safe and ready for the next adventure.