So how do you get prepared to visit the outback and be properly prepared for most of the situations that could occur while visiting remote places in this great continent of ours?

 The rules here are quite simple in that firstly we must recognise that there is far less expert supply and help in remote areas than there is in big town or city environments.

 This means that with the cost of phone calls, freight etc spares or tyres will cost you a lot more in the outback than they would normally cost in towns or cities.

 So the rule is to replace worn parts on your vehicle before you venture into the outback. This also applies to tyres, batteries, suspension, fan belts, radiators and hoses, heater hoses and the like.

 There are lots of publications on outback travel but if you follow a few simple rules and have your vehicle checked thoroughly by an expert 4wd repairer, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip.

 Following is a list of products that you might like to consider for Remote Area Touring but they should be prioritised to suit your, vehicle, budget and application.

 Rear suspension air bags: Maintains factory designed ride height even when loaded. This will help keep front tyres on the road and reduce rear tyre and suspension wear by levelling the vehicle.

 Solid, rated tow hooks front and rear: Just in case your vehicle needs to be recovered or needs to assist another vehicle.

 Heavy Duty recovery strap: As above but see an OL store for the correct strap for your vehicle’s size and weight.

 Water: Carry enough water to easily get you through the dry part of your trip. 4 litres per person per day is the rule of thumb.

 Shovel: In case of encountering boggy conditions. Other uses too.

 UHF Radio: No mobile phones in the outback. Suitable for contact to station properties, other travellers, trucks, etc over shore distances. Our convoys use these radios constantly to communicate with you. We advise of oncoming traffic, road conditions, comfort breaks, meal stops, local history and other important information.

 Tyres of more than 70% tread and heavy duty construction: City sports tyres have no place in rough conditions on corrugated roads and tracks. Do not “run out” your old tyres in the bush. This is a very major part of your vehicle, they carry all the weight and they are the contact with the rough conditions. We recommend Cooper Tires as our experience shows them to give less troubles than any other tyre that we have used.

 Shock absorbers and springs: Other than tyres these take the most punishment in rough conditions so ensure that they are well checked and in top condition. Foam cell replacement shocks will improve your vehicle’s ride and handling while making your trip far more comfortable. Some well known brands do not work well in the outback, they may not fail but they do not control the vehicle ride very well either. Some just fail.

 Sturdy roof rack: Preferably use a heavy duty alloy to take those light but bulky items. Steel adds a great deal of weight but is also strong. Carry as little as possible on your roof rack.  

Cargo barrier: Stops items becoming projectiles in case of an accident. A 3 kg item has the force of a washing machine in a 60kph stop. Alternatively well anchored roller drawers or the like may be suitable. It is probably best to opt for both.

 Spare radiator hoses, fan belts and heater hoses: Replace the ones on your vehicle and take your old ones as spares or preferably take a brand new set.

 First aid kit and learn how to use it: This goes without saying but even though our tour operators are skilled with first aid, you should be self sufficient.

 Spare parts that are the most likely to be needed for your vehicle type: This relates to the main fuse, aux fuses, etc.

 Small tool kit: We carry most tools but a small kit will assist you with minor day to day repairs. Suitable for minor daily repairs and maintenance.

Small spares kit: Bits and pieces, nuts and bolts for minor repairs.

 Ground sheet: To lie on while repairing or checking your vehicle. Use as a “blind” for water fording.