Preparation Tips Before Exploring the Outback

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Preparation Tips Before Exploring the Outback

13 September 2016
 Categories: , Blog


Preparing for an outdoor excursion can be a difficult task, especially when travelling to a new area. If you've never been to this particular location before and don't know what to do to ensure you remain safe throughout the trip, then a few essential bits of pre-trip preparation and basic supplies can prepare you for many different situations. 

Emergency Towing

It's quite possible that in the vast expanses of the Australian outback your vehicle may break down or become stuck. If this were to happen in the majority of western European countries, then there wouldn't be much call for alarm, because of the climate and terrain. However, the Australian outback can reach soaring temperatures and play host to a variety of poisonous insects and animals, as well as bushfires and flash floods. 

Ensuring that your own vehicle insurance includes emergency callouts, as well as checking to see if there are any garages in the vicinity that offer 24-hour emergency callouts should be something that is done before leaving the house. Have the contact details written down both on your phone and somewhere else, just in case the battery dies. Having a second phone and a hard copy of the number is a good idea too. Also, it isn't a bad idea to plot your route and leave a copy with someone, so that you know you can direct any towing or emergency services to the right location.

Water

Having a good supply of water is essential and should consist of at least 20 litres stored in emergency clean Jerry cans, as well as five to seven litres per person per day. The rate of which you lose water depends on your body temperature, so not only should you regularly hydrate with smaller sips, but you should also rig up some shade with a plastic tarpaulin to keep your body temperature down. Try not to walk around too much and stay with the vehicle, you are going to reduce the amount you sweat, protect yourself from the elements and reduce the amount you waste by going to the toilet. 

Bushfire

Bushfires can spring up from nowhere and wreck havoc to anything in their path. Always pack an approved bushfire blanket and keep an eye on the news for possible warnings. Avoiding any areas that could be affected, and staying away from large swathes of dry bush is the easiest way to prevent becoming trapped. Above all, seek the advice of your local fire department who will be able to offer sound advice about surviving a bushfire should you become caught in one.