If you’ve been looking for the next road trip adventure of a lifetime, maybe you should check out what Australia has to offer. The expansive continent has been a top traveler attraction for decades, with millions of tourists pouring into the country every year to experience the sights, the sounds and the distinct cultural heritage that permeates the land.
Much like packing for a trip for Europe, an Aussie road trip requires plenty of planning and preparation in order to make the most of your time, stay safe on the road, and enjoy yourself as much as possible. However, there are instances in which an Australian road trip differs from any other in the world. Let’s take a look at how to prepare for this grand escapade the right way.
Plan your route with distances in mind
First things first, you should take a moment to truly grasp the sheer size of the country. Without Russia, Europe can easily fit within Australia’s borders. So can the US, so can a large portion of Southeastern Asia. Yep, this country is big, so don’t think for a second you’ll be able to experience it all in one go. Instead, you want to plan your road trip according to distances and choose the best route to see and do as much as possible in a specified timeframe.
For instance, one of the most popular road trips in the Land Down Under will take you from Brisbane in the north all the way down to Sydney, through the nation’s capital of Canberra, ultimately leading you into Melbourne. This one trip alone can take days if not weeks due to the sheer distance between every stop.
Factor in the detours and stops
Every road trip deserves a diverse and dynamic itinerary – you can’t just expect to drive from point A to point B – there needs to be a dash of adventure, of the exciting and the unknown. This is why it’s important to factor the possible detours and unscheduled stops into your main route. Yes, planning for the unplanned is essential for a successful Aussie road trip, as it will allow you to make the most of your time.
So, take the time to study the topography thoroughly, marking essential stops such as cities on your map, and also researching the surrounding points of interest you could visit. With numerous national parks gracing the countryside, breathtaking coastal towns overlooking the ocean, and amazing camping spots dotting the expansive outback, you’re going to have your hands full. So, be prepared.
Prep your car for the road ahead
And speaking of being prepared, you shouldn’t even dream of taking on an Aussie road trip without checking two essential boxes first: making sure your car is in tip-top shape, and obtaining the right vehicle insurance for your expedition. For the former, you want to take your car to an experienced mechanic who will run the necessary diagnostics and tune up the vehicle if need be. As for car insurance, you will need a comprehensive package that will keep you fully covered throughout your journey.
Pack the necessary provisions
Depending on your travel destination, basic provisions and accessories will vary greatly. When it comes to an Australian road trip, the game tends to change drastically. Packing the right accessories and foods for the road can mean the difference between an awesome time and searching for a pair of fresh socks that simply don’t exist, so take note.
- Pack clothes according to the season – it can get pretty hot in the outback.
- Your food selection should be light, with refreshing drinks, fruits and veggies dominating the menu.
- Make sure you bring a first-aid kit, a spare tire, a car jack, and your essential set of maintenance tools to make in-the-middle-of-nowhere repairs feasible.
- Digital equipment is of paramount importance, so bring a reliable GPS device, a spare mobile phone, and a portable charger. If you’re coming in from abroad, don’t forget the adequate power adaptor.
- Australia has some of the best camping spots in the world, so don’t forget your outdoor gear.
Follow the signs, stay vigilant, have a blast
Last but not least, it’s important to remember that the Aussie landscape is a rich and diverse setting teeming with wildlife. As such, it’s amazing to look at, but it should not be tampered with. Australians take their wildlife protection acts very seriously, so don’t even think about camping where you’re not supposed to, and if you see a lazy wallaby lounging in the middle of the road (and you will), be sure to drive around it instead of trying to scare it away.
Otherwise, Australia is a very safe place for male and female travelers, so just remember to abide by the local rules and regulations, follow the signs, respect your surroundings, and you’re bound to have a blast.
In conclusion
The Land Down Under is a vast country filled to the brim with rich cultural experiences, mesmerizing vistas, and unique spots that dot the outback you won’t find anywhere else in the world. With that in mind, let this essential guide help you prepare for what will undeniably be a road trip adventure of a lifetime.