One of the best ways to explore the vast Australian outback is with your 4×4. But as simple as it may sound, taking a journey through the outback can be very dangerous, especially if it’s your first time and you aren’t prepared and equipped to deal with what lies ahead. This is why you need to do your due diligence beforehand, and get some basic survivability and 4×4 camping gear.
But with so much camping gear and cheap 4×4 accessories available nowadays, how do you know what to choose? Choosing equipment can be quite overwhelming, simply because there’s just too much out there, and chances are you’ll walk out with many things that you don’t even need. No matter whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced adventurer who needs a quick checklist, here are the most important items you need for a successful trip.
Tent and Awning
After spending the whole day fishing, hiking or just exploring, you’ll probably want to put your feet up and unwind somewhere protected from the elements and pests. Tents and awnings provide just that, and much more. These pieces of 4×4 camping gear are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and most of them are lightweight, compact, and extremely easy to set up, even if you’re by yourself. However, there are also complicated versions that come with stakes, poles, tarps, and tie-downs, and you’ll need an extra set of hands to set up.
That being said, consider how many people the tent or awning will have to accommodate, and make sure the product you choose is waterproof. Awnings and tents are cheap 4×4 accessories that make setting up camp extremely easy, so don’t hesitate to upgrade your off-road experience with them.
Bedding
While you can technically sleep on the ground, or bring along your yoga mattress, you won’t be doing yourself any favours. Avoid unnecessary inconvenience and back pain by investing in a nice camping mattress or sleeping bag. You may even want to get a nice pillow to make sure your neck is properly positioned and comfy throughout the night. You got a lot of options to choose from. If you’re buying a sleeping bag, make sure it’s rated for the climate you’ll be camping in.
Lighting
If you’re going to camp in a remote area with no light pollution, then you’re going to need to figure out how you’re going to light up your surroundings. While lighting a fire can give you decent illumination around your camp, a headlamp or torch is needed for going to the bathroom, taking a hike, or when looking for something. You can also get a lantern for your tent, as they provide 360-degree illumination. Whatever you go for, make sure it’s powered by LEDs and features long-lasting batteries. LED lighting fixtures are more powerful and efficient than other alternatives, and they don’t drain the battery as much.
Refrigerator
There’s nothing worse than coming back from a hike and realizing your refreshments are warm and the food has lost its freshness. There are many foods that won’t spoil even in hot temperatures, but there’s no saving the drinks. Fortunately, there are many different types of portable refrigerators that are specifically made to withstand Australia’s harsh weather and are packed with features such as pin locks, weatherproof housing, and freezing options. Portable fridges also come in a wide range of sizes, so you have to consider how many people you’ll frequently be adventuring with and how many refreshments you’ll need to bring along.
Shovel
A shovel can be one of the most valuable items you can bring to your trip across the outback. You can dig a hole to sir the campfire in, use it as a hammer to hit tent pegs with, dig around your 4×4’s wheels should you get stuck, and the list goes on. However, make sure you get a shovel meant for off-roading. The difference between conventional and off-road shovels is that those for off-roading are adapted for various purposes. For example, there are some that can be used with a long handle for typical shoveling, or with a short handle for more striking power. There are pointy models that are great at penetrating the ground. The handle can be made from different materials, such as wood and steel.
Leatherman Multitool
Leatherman multitools come in a wide range of shapes and forms, and they’re some of the most versatile tools you can get not only for camping but in general. They are equipped with everything you may need while out in the great Australian outback. Need a bottle or can opener? They got it. Need to screw some nuts or cut something? They can do that. Browse through their wide selection and choose one that you think will give you the most utility.
Roof Rack
Last but not least, you’ll need a place to store and carry all of the aforementioned 4×4 camping equipment and accessories. That’s where roof racks come into play. Roof racks can be quite costly, but the value you get out of them is immeasurable. Most roof racks are designed to be installed on a specific 4×4 model, make, and year. They are usually made of either steel or aluminum.
Steel roof racks are more durable, but they’re also heavy, lowering the number of things you can carry with them. Aluminum, on the other hand, is far more lightweight, but also costs a lot more. Both steel and aluminum roof racks can be coated to improve their durability and resistance to corrosion, rust, and elements in general.
Final Thoughts
I hope that this list will make it easy for beginners like yourself to have a great first-time experience in the great Australian outback. While the essential pieces of gear and equipment you have to bring will depend on personal preference and individual situation, the aforementioned pieces will serve you well in almost any situation. Consider bringing a first-aid kit and cooking gear like a gas stove and utensils, as well as rain gear if it’s expected to rain in the days you’ll be out in the wilderness.