Australia offers some of the world's most spectacular road trip opportunities, from the iconic Great Ocean Road to the red centre's endless horizons. However, the vast distances, remote locations, and challenging conditions that make Australian road trips so memorable also require thorough preparation. A breakdown in the outback is vastly different from one in suburban Sydney.
This comprehensive checklist will help you prepare for any Australian road trip, whether you're planning a weekend coastal drive or an epic cross-country adventure.
Vehicle Preparation
Your vehicle is your lifeline on a road trip. Ensuring it's in top condition before departure prevents most roadside dramas.
Pre-Trip Service
If your regular service is due within the next few thousand kilometres, get it done before you leave. Have a mechanic specifically check components that will be stressed on long drives: cooling system, brakes, suspension, and tyres. Mention your planned route—if you're heading to remote areas, they may recommend additional checks or carrying specific spare parts.
- Engine oil level and condition
- Coolant level and hose condition
- Brake fluid, power steering, and windscreen washer fluid
- Tyre pressure (including spare) and tread depth
- All lights working (headlights, brake lights, indicators)
- Battery condition and terminal cleanliness
- Windscreen wipers and washer function
- Air conditioning operation
Spare Tyre and Tools
Verify your spare tyre is properly inflated and in good condition—many spares sit unused for years and may be degraded or flat. Know where your jack and wheel brace are stored and ensure they work. Consider whether your spare is a full-size or space-saver; if it's a space-saver, understand its speed and distance limitations.
For remote travel, consider carrying a second spare and a tyre repair kit. Tyre plugs can get you to the next town if you pick up debris in a remote area. A portable air compressor is invaluable for adjusting pressures on different terrain and reinflating after repairs.
Safety and Emergency Equipment
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst. An emergency can be an inconvenience or a life-threatening situation depending on your preparation.
- First aid kit with current supplies (check expiry dates)
- Fire extinguisher (dry chemical powder type)
- Warning triangle or LED flares
- Jump starter or jumper leads
- Torch with spare batteries (or rechargeable)
- Multi-tool or basic toolkit
- Tow rope or recovery strap
- Duct tape and cable ties
Water and Food Supplies
Always carry more water than you think you'll need. A minimum of 4 litres per person per day is recommended for emergency situations in hot conditions. Carry additional water for the vehicle—radiator top-ups might be needed. Store water in multiple containers so a single failure doesn't leave you without.
Pack non-perishable snacks that can sustain you if stranded: nuts, dried fruit, muesli bars, and crackers. Avoid chocolate and items that melt or spoil quickly in heat. A small esky with fresh food for meals is separate from your emergency supplies, which should remain sealed until needed.
Communication and Navigation
Staying connected and knowing where you're going is crucial, especially when mobile coverage is unreliable.
Maps and GPS
Never rely solely on your phone for navigation. Download offline maps before leaving populated areas—apps like Google Maps allow you to save regions for offline use. Better yet, carry physical maps of your route. Paper maps don't need batteries, don't lose signal, and show the big picture in a way that phone screens can't.
A dedicated GPS unit with Australian topographic maps is worthwhile for serious outback travel. These units often have better satellite reception than phones and can display terrain features important for off-road navigation.
Large portions of Australia have no mobile phone coverage. Don't assume you'll be able to call for help everywhere. Check coverage maps before travelling and inform someone of your route and expected arrival times. Consider satellite communication devices (like a PLB or satellite messenger) for genuinely remote travel.
Emergency Communication
For remote area travel, consider a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger device. PLBs can summon rescue services anywhere on Earth but only transmit emergency alerts. Satellite messengers (like Garmin inReach or SPOT devices) allow two-way messaging, so you can communicate non-emergency needs or let family know your progress.
Comfort and Convenience Items
Long hours on the road are more enjoyable when you're comfortable. These items aren't strictly necessary but make the journey much more pleasant.
In-Car Comfort
A quality phone mount keeps navigation visible without handling your device. Sunglasses reduce eye strain and fatigue on bright days. Neck pillows help passengers rest, and an esky within reach keeps drinks cold. If you're sharing driving duties, the passenger seat should be equally comfortable.
Entertainment matters, especially with children. Download podcasts, audiobooks, and music before leaving coverage areas. Car games, activity books, and tablet devices (with headphones) keep young passengers occupied during long stretches.
Rest Stop Essentials
Toilet paper and hand sanitiser are invaluable when facilities are limited or questionable. Wet wipes handle everything from cleaning up meals to quick freshen-ups. A small camping chair lets you enjoy rest stops properly rather than standing around. Sunscreen and insect repellent make outdoor breaks comfortable.
- Keep frequently needed items (snacks, water, phone chargers) within reach
- Use a boot organiser to prevent items sliding around
- Pack an overnight bag separately if you'll be staying in accommodation
- Store emergency gear where you can access it without unpacking everything
- Secure loose items—they become projectiles in sudden stops
Documentation and Planning
Proper planning prevents problems. Knowing what to expect and having the right documentation smooths your journey.
Essential Documents
Carry your driver's licence, vehicle registration papers, and insurance documents. Keep digital copies in your phone or cloud storage as backup. If you're travelling interstate, confirm your insurance covers you—some policies have limitations on regional or outback travel.
Roadside Assistance
Membership in a roadside assistance organisation (RACV, NRMA, RAA, etc.) is essential for Australian road trips. Verify your membership is current and understand the coverage—some plans have distance limits or restrictions on remote recovery. Premium memberships that include accommodation and transport home can be worthwhile for long journeys.
Route Planning
Research your route thoroughly. Identify fuel stops—in remote areas, distances between stations can exceed 200 kilometres. Calculate your vehicle's range and plan refuelling points with a safety margin. Check road conditions, particularly after rain or in fire season, as closures can require significant detours.
Special Considerations for Remote Travel
If your trip includes genuinely remote sections—unsealed roads, outback highways, or areas far from towns—additional preparation is necessary.
Fuel Management
Never let your tank drop below half in remote areas. Carry additional fuel in approved containers for extended sections without services. Calculate your vehicle's consumption on unsealed roads, which is typically 20-30% higher than highway driving. Know your vehicle's total range and plan accordingly.
Additional Remote Area Equipment
A satellite phone or emergency beacon isn't paranoia—it's common sense for remote travel. Recovery boards or maxtrax can self-rescue from sand or mud. A shovel, axe, and bow saw handle obstacles and emergencies. If sleeping in your vehicle or camping, appropriate equipment for the conditions is essential.
Driving Fatigue Management
Fatigue is one of the biggest dangers on Australian road trips. The monotonous landscapes and long distances make drowsiness a real risk.
Plan realistic daily distances—600-700 kilometres maximum for a single driver. Take breaks every two hours or 200 kilometres, getting out of the vehicle to stretch and refresh. Share driving if possible, and never drive when tired, regardless of your schedule. It's better to arrive late than not arrive at all.
Watch for fatigue warning signs: yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting in your lane, and difficulty maintaining speed. If you notice these, stop immediately. A 15-minute power nap or a walk and coffee can help, but if you're genuinely tired, find accommodation and rest properly.
The preparation might seem extensive, but it's what separates a memorable adventure from a stressful ordeal. Pack methodically, check everything twice, and then relax and enjoy the incredible experiences that Australian road trips offer. Safe travels!