Camping in Australia: Dos and Don’ts for an Enjoyable Experience

No matter if you’re a seasoned around-the-world camper or just a noobie planning their first trip, if this is your first Aussie camping experience, you need to know a few tips. Australia is a huge country with countless beauties but also a few dangers that might be lurking, so knowing what to do and what to avoid can make a difference between a pleasant trip and a nightmare. 

Do pack your fire-starting kit

There’s nothing better than relaxing next to a fire after a long day of nature exploration, but make sure to be very careful in Australia. This country is prone to wildfires, so make sure to limit your bonfire to designated areas and respect no-fire rules. With that in mind, make sure to pack a good fire-starting kit and practice making a fire at home. Struggling to get your fire going when you’re tired and cold will not be very fun. Having a good knife at hand at all times is also a must. 

Do bring good shoes

Always dress for the occasion, and pay special attention to your shoes. Make sure to pack something durable and weather-resistant so you can always stay comfortable, safe and dry. If you’re planning on doing plenty of hiking, mountaineering boots might be your perfect choice. And don’t forget flip-flops for the beach! 

Do pack plenty of bug spray

Australia might not be densely populated by people, but animals sure have it good, insects and creepy crawlers especially. So, make sure to pack quality insect repellents and ensure your tent is equipped with a mosquito net and a good zipper to keep unwanted visitors outside. 

Do pay attention to car insurance

Unless money isn’t an issue for you, make sure you have correct travel and car insurance. Some roads prohibit caravans, so if you get in trouble there, your insurance won’t cover it. Hitting unsealed roads with rented campers might also rid you of your insurance. And things like flat tires, flat batteries and flooding will result in expensive road-help fees, so make sure your insurance covers everything. With some good planning, you can travel around Australia cheaply and have an affordable and safe adventure. Want to save more money? Pack plenty of supplies and avoid hitting those lonely bars or shops with overpriced items. 

Don’t disregard the weather

Australia is huge, so it’s not a surprise that it’s blessed with a diverse climate. So, in order to have a pleasant camping experience, don’t disregard the weather. If you’re hitting southern states, it’s best to go between October and April, while the complete opposite goes with central Australia (avoid the heat by camping from April to October). Tropical states are suitable for all-year-round camping, but November through March is marked by plenty of rain, so make sure to consider that before you take out your big and heavy camper outside. 

Don’t wing it

If you just got your new gear, make sure to give it a try before you go into nature. Winging those things is never a good idea. If you get to your location at dusk and realize you need 10 years of experience to set up your high-tech tent, you’ll find yourself in a real pickle. It’s fine to be new to camping, but you need at least one day of practice before you embark. So, take out your new tent and try to set it up in your backyard; see how your new hammock mounts; unpack your new headlights and see if they work; try to operate your camping stove, etc.

Don’t forget to bring water

It bears repeating that Australia is vast and often not so very friendly, especially in the summer. So, expect to be desperate for water from the time you wake up to the time you go to sleep (camping is thirsty work). No matter if you’re camping in the backcountry or on a popular campsite, ensure you’re well-stocked with water. It’s also smart to come up with a practical way to purify water just in case. If you happen to run out of water, a water purification system will be a life-saving backup. 

Don’t leave trash behind

Australians are very proud of their gorgeous nature and very conscious when it comes to environment protection, so make sure to leave no trail behind you. You might be surprised how much rubbish you’ll produce during your nature outing, so pack a few big trash bags for safe and clean disposal. Bring them with you and dispose of them at a designated waste station or wait until you get home or to your temporary accommodation. 

These tips will not only ensure you have a trip to remember, but they also can be potentially lifesaving if you ever get yourself in a bad situation. As with any camping trip, make sure to bring someone on your Australian nature outing and don’t take on more than you can handle. Stay safe and enjoy all the charms of the Land Down Under.