Touring Australia is one of the most rewarding, and at times, challenging holidays you’ll ever have the pleasure of doing. It offers the chance to explore the vast and varied landscapes of this incredible continent, from the white sandy beaches of Esperance to the deep reds of the Outback. It doesn’t matter what your flavour is, Australia will well and truly cater for it.
In this guide, we’ll delve into each essential aspect of the journey, and give you the tips and tricks you need to get the big lap done.
Planning Your Route
Choosing the right route is crucial for a successful Big Lap. You want to get this right not only for the enjoyment factor of having a year-round summer, but also the financial factor too. Consider the seasons and weather patterns in each region to plan your itinerary accordingly. When you’re towing a caravan or camper trailer it pays to do your big drive days when a tail wind is blowing as this’ll help push you along and save you some hard-earned coin at the bowser.
Stick to the southern states during December, January, and February when the weather is milder and more comfortable for touring. Then, as the temperatures begin to drop in the southern regions, head north during June, July, and August. This way, you can avoid the searing heat, humidity, and impassable roads of the northern regions during their wet season, which lasts from November to April. The wet season brings heavy rain, humidity, and the occasional cyclone, which could disrupt your travel plans. The ideal time to explore the northern half of Australia is during the winter months when the weather is more pleasant and less prone to extreme conditions.
Vehicle Preparation
Preparing your vehicle for the Big Lap is just as important as planning your route to ensure a smooth and trouble-free journey. Conduct a comprehensive vehicle inspection, paying close attention to the engine, brakes, suspension, and tyres. When you’re on the road it’ll be a tad more difficult to conduct maintenance, it pays to have a go at predicting what will need replacing over the course of your Lap by researching common issues for your vehicle and knocking over as much preventative maintenance as possible before you pull out of the driveway. It’s a good bet that the further you head from home, the more costly mechanical fixes will be.
While you’re thinking ahead, ponder your journey and what you’re doing. Are you towing? Do you need a transmission cooler? Thinking about water crossings? Perhaps you need a snorkel. I wouldn’t leave home without a bull bar for rogue-roo encounters, and additional jerry cans for remote travel if you don’t have long-range tanks. Don’t forget to pack essential recovery gear, a reliable GPS or navigation system, and a comprehensive toolkit for any roadside fixes.
Packing Like a Pro
When it comes to packing for the Big Lap, efficiency is key. Prioritise essential camping gear, cooking equipment, spare parts, and emergency supplies while minimising unnecessary items. Inevitably, you’ll leave home with a whole host of things you’ll swear to your partner you absolutely need and quickly realise you were wrong, donate that gear to a charity store on the next town you travel through and save space, weight, and fuel.
Invest in high-quality, space-saving gear such as lightweight camping chairs, compact cooking stoves, and collapsible storage containers. Ensure you’re well-equipped with ample water, non-perishable food, and extra fuel for extended journeys between refuelling stations. Additionally, pack essential safety gear including first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency beacons for peace of mind in remote areas.
If it’s summer, you can save space by vacuum sealing your warmer clothes and stowing them out of the way. When it starts to cool down, do the opposite. A weather-proof case, like those made by Pelican Cases mounted on a roof rack is the perfect spot for out of season clothing.
Tyre Tips
Choosing a set of rubber is tough-enough at the best of times. When it comes to deciding on a set for touring Australia it can seem even more daunting. We’ve had long discussions by the campfire about this topic and the results are unanimous, if you’re doing the Big Lap you should be looking at a set of aggressive all-terrains (A/Ts). These will be quiet enough on the bitumen, offer control in the wet, and perform on the dirt and in the mud, all while providing longevity.
Surviving the Outback
You don’t need to be fearful of Outback travel. Sure, Wolf Creek is a real place – but the movie? Well, that’s complete fiction. In lieu of crazed Mick Taylors, you’ll instead find some of the kindest, most down to earth Aussie’s you’ll ever meet and I’d take an Outback waterhole over a beach any day.
Venturing into the remote regions of the Outback does require careful preparation and respect for the harsh environment. Safety should be a priority, so stock up on ample supplies of water, food, and fuel before embarking on remote journeys. Familiarise yourself with local weather forecasts, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar and bushfires are prevalent, Willy Weather is my go-to app for this, it updates based on your location and sends weather-alerts straight to your smart device.
It always pays to stay informed about road conditions and closures by checking local authorities’ websites or radio stations. If you still can’t find the info you’re after, don’t hesitate to reach out to local authorities, pubs, and information centres. They’re always happy to help. Additionally, consider travelling with a companion or joining a convoy for added safety and support in ultra-remote locations.
As is the case anywhere in Australia, you should be vigilant for wildlife hazards on the road, including kangaroos, emus, cattle, and camels and avoid driving at dawn and dusk. If you’ve planned your trip right, there shouldn’t be any need to steer during these hours.
Not-so-Insta-Famous
While iconic landmarks like Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef are must-see destinations on the Big Lap, don’t overlook the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions that Australia has to offer. Insta famous locations have their place, however they are bound to be packed with tourists. Take time to explore lesser-known national parks, remote beaches, and outback towns, where you’ll encounter unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Engage with fellow travellers and locals, exchange stories, beers, and location recommendations. By honing your inner-nomad and embracing the spirit of adventure you’ll come across so much more than just what the internet wants you to see.
By far, some of my best adventures have been the ones fate forced me into. If you find your route is impassable, chuck a left, or a right. You can’t go wrong.
Pro Tips for Budget Travel
Free Camping: Take advantage of free camping opportunities wherever possible to save on accommodation costs. Utilise resources such as the Camps Australia Wide guidebook and mobile apps like WikiCamps to find free or low-cost campsites along your route.
Bulk Buying: Purchase supplies in larger towns or cities where prices are typically lower before reaching remote areas. When we’re away filming we do our larger stock-ups at Costco, where buying in bulk is easy and cost-effective.
Fuel Savings: Take advantage of fuel discount programs and loyalty cards to save money on fuel expenses. Apps that let you lock-in the cheapest fuel prices possible such as the 7-Eleven app will save you in the long run. If those servos aren’t on your intended route, plan your refuelling stops strategically to avoid running low on fuel in remote areas where prices may be higher. If you do begin to run low, drop your speed as much as is safely possible, the slower you go, the better your economy will be.
Cultural Immersion
This isn’t a politically correct comment, it’s plain advice. Immerse yourself in Australia’s rich indigenous culture by visiting cultural sites, attending local events, and learning about traditional customs and practices. You’ll learn so much about this fantastic country and come out of it with a whole new appreciation for the land you’re traversing.
Respect indigenous land rights and sacred sites by seeking permission before entering and adhering to any restrictions or guidelines. Support indigenous-owned businesses and art galleries to contribute to the economic empowerment of indigenous communities. Take guided tours led by indigenous guides to gain insights into the land’s spiritual significance and traditional knowledge.
Embarking on the Big Lap around Australia is a journey of discovery, adventure, and personal growth. I know that sounds like nonsense, but it’s absolutely true. By carefully planning your route, preparing your vehicle, and embracing the spirit of exploration (and being a little bit brave), you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re navigating remote Outback tracks, camping under the stars on the West Coast, or immersing yourself in indigenous culture, the Big Lap offers endless opportunities for off the beaten path adventures and connection with this gorgeous country.
