When you think of Australia, what do you think of? The bustling cities and towering skyscrapers? Maybe the crowded beaches? No. There are few places anywhere around the world with endless space like the Australian Outback. Teeming with incredible mountain ranges, sweeping lowlands, rocky gorges emblazoned with ancient Aboriginal art and rivers that snake along this land. That’s before you even meet the people of country towns who offer their own colourful stories helping to paint an amazing Australian experience. Travelling around the Australian Outback will open your eyes to this incredible country, but if you’re driving, it’s important to know a few things before you hit the roads.
What is driving like in the Australian Outback?
One of the defining features of the Australian Outback is the large open roads, perfect for near stress-free driving. The long stretches between the country towns give you a sense of peace that you can’t find in normal driving. The heat beating down as the dust kicks up behind you adds to the sense of freedom, you’ve started to embrace outback life.
When it comes to driving, it’s wise to steer clear of night-time journeys, especially around twilight. Many animals, including kangaroos, are very active around this time and the darkness can make it incredibly difficult to spot them posing a risk of collision. Moreover, those trucks with multiple trailers, road trains, can be quite a handful to deal with. On narrow outback highways, it’s crucial to give road trains plenty of space by moving over when you see one approaching. And if you’re planning to overtake a road train, always ensure that there’s a long stretch of open road ahead for a safe manoeuvre. Prioritize caution and be mindful of these challenges on the road.
Above: Don’t expect to come back without a dusty set of wheels.
When the weather is dry, unsealed dirt or gravel roads can be dusty and sometimes bumpy, but they are generally suitable for driving. However, it’s important to exercise caution after rainfall, as these roads can become muddy, and you may risk getting stuck. Furthermore, driving on a road that has been closed can lead to substantial fines. It’s also worth mentioning that many unsealed roads pass through private property. Always be considerate and leave any gates as you encountered them – if the gate is open, proceed onward, but if it’s closed, remember to close it after you’ve driven through.
Of course, you’ll need to find a spot to stay. Country towns are always ready to welcome visitors with open arms. They boast a variety of options for accommodation, including caravan parks for those who enjoy camping or traveling in a campervan. Additionally, you’ll find a plethora of motels, pubs, and roadhouses that not only provide delicious meals but also offer cosy and comfortable lodging options.
What is the best vehicle for an outback trip?
When travelling across the outback of Australia you’ll need to ask yourself what vehicle is going to get me there and back again. We fully recommend to really explore Australia, you’ll need a 4WD. If you’re up for the challenge of exploring the renowned outback dirt tracks, such as the Gibb River Road in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, make sure you have the right 4WD at your disposal. It’s an absolute must to conquer these rugged terrains and make the most of your adventure.
Above: Tackle the outback with a 4WD.
Where do I find fuel?
Are you familiar with the feeling of panic when your fuel light suddenly comes on? It’s a common occurrence, but it always leaves you wondering, “Where on earth can I find a fuel station nearby?” Luckily, you’ll discover petrol stations or roadhouses scattered throughout almost every town and at regular intervals along major highways. However, keep in mind that these stations typically operate from 9am to 5pm and, in remote areas, they might be closed on weekends.
Above: Anyone want to go to the servo?
If you’re planning an adventure along the remote tracks, it’s important to remember that diesel fuel is sometimes more easily accessible than petrol in the outback. Additionally, some Aboriginal communities may offer Opal fuel instead of petrol, which is perfectly suitable for any vehicle that typically runs on unleaded fuel. To ensure a worry-free journey, it’s a good idea to have an extra jerry can of fuel or two on hand.
What do I need to pack?
When setting off on an outback road trip, one of the most crucial items to bring along is an abundant supply of drinking water. Although tap water is usually safe to drink, it might have a slightly salty flavour in some places. You could consider travelling the outback with water filters as even pristine looking water may be contaminated with dangerous bacteria and parasites.
Be aware that certain outback petrol stations located in water-scarce regions may require you to pay for refilling your camper trailer/caravans water tanks. Hence, it is wise to be prepared to cover the cost. Moreover, don’t forget to pack a comprehensive first aid kit and ensure you have all the tools necessary for changing a flat tire.
Above: Let’s hit the road!
Remember that mobile phone coverage can be spotty in those remote regions. To ensure you don’t get lost, it’s best to download online maps beforehand and use them offline. Another option is to equip yourself with a GPS featuring satellite navigation, which can be purchased or rented from a car rental company. For those embarking on off-road adventures, it’s a smart move to consider renting a satellite phone to stay connected, even when you’re far from the main road network.
Hit the Outback in style in a Cub!
Australia is such a diverse land, you’ll be struggling to choose where you want to go first, and there is really only one solution to experience the Australian Outback – in a Cub.
For those who are looking to travel in extreme comfort, we recommend the Cub Luxury Hybrid Caravan Range.
The Cub Luxury Hybrid Caravan range caters to a range of adventurers, from couples to families. Built with over 55 years of Australian-made manufacturing experience and using high quality Australian materials, such as Bluescope Steel to form the chassis, your Cub won’t leave you stranded. Our latest addition to the range, the H14, is Cub’s compact 14-foot caravan, a Cub first for nimble luxury travel around Australia.
Above: Harry from Fire to Fork setting up the H16.
For those looking for an even more authentic and cost-effective camping experience, you need look no further than one of Cub’s renowned camper trailers. Very quick to set-up and featuring a renowned Australian canvas (used by Driza-Bone and the Australian military), you’ll feel truly connected to your environment, whilst retaining many of the convenience and luxuries available in one of our hybrid caravans.
Whether you’re looking for something for a family or for a couple, Cub’s extensive range of camper trailers has something to fit your needs. The Drifter is the perfect double fold camper for families, seamlessly combining the functionality of a camper trailer with the space of a caravan, quick and easy to set-up with features you can find in our Luxury Hybrid Caravan range such as the Fusion Bluetooth Stereo & King Size Bed.
Above: The Brumby getting put through it’s paces in the Australian Outback.
If you’re game to tackle some challenging off-road tracks, we’d recommend the Brumby as a perfect camper companion to a 4×4. With its rugged construction, this camper is specifically built to endure the unforgiving conditions of the Australian outback. Rest assured, a Brumby is tough and reliable, and makes camping in remote areas of the Australian Outback a comfortable and pleasurable experience.
Whether you’re looking to camp on the sandy beaches of Wilsons Promontory or tackle the tough tracks of the Kimberley, Cub has a range of luxurious Australian Made Hybrid Caravans and rugged Camper Trailers, ready for your next adventure.
Are you ready to leave your troubles behind and really get lost? No one tells you how to travel, it’s up to you. The freedom of choice to discover new places, unearth majestic experiences is the wonderful call to something we all want. We won’t tell you what to do, we can only help with how you get there. We have your ticket to get lost in luxury.
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