Traveller’s essential checklist
Essential items to have in your car at all times:
- detailed maps of the area
- a compass
- water in small containers instead of one large tank; check all water containers
- for leaks; if you’re unused to the Outback, you made need one litre of water every hour; if active (eg walking, climbing etc) you will need to consume additional water at regular intervals (remember: don't wait to feel thirsty before taking a drink!); most towns have water but, at some places, you may not be able to get drinking water; we recommend that in very hot conditions you carry 10 litres of water per person per day
- enough food for each person for two days
- matches, lighter and fire-lighter blocks
- clothes for extreme heat and cold; in outback areas, both temperature extremes can be experienced within one day
- a first aid kit with bandages, plasters, an antiseptic cream, sunblock cream, a broad spectrum antibiotic, insect repellent, a pain reliever and a booklet on first aid
- a complete set of tools in working order; main towns are well equipped with motor mechanics and parts retailers but this is not always the case in remote areas, so be prepared. If going off the main roads, take an extra jack with a large base to stop it sinking in the sand or mud, preferably two spare tyres correctly inflated, engine oil, axe, shovel, globes, fanbelt, fuses, coil, condenser, radiator hoses, tow rope, distributor points and one or two big flashlights.
- two-way HF radio with Flying Doctor and Telstra frequencies (mobile phones have limited coverage in remote areas)
- extra fuel in jerrycans is not usually necessary except in the remote Outback where towns are a long distance apart; most towns have fuel facilities, so simply plan ahead, keep your tank topped up as you go and check at each stop for where the next stop will be on your journey
Disclaimer:
NO RESPONSIBILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED BY THE RFDS FOR ACTIONS TAKEN AS A RESULT OF INFORMATION CONTAINED HERE.