| Although throwing a swag on the roof and just heading bush may sound like a great idea, being well prepared will make your trip far more enjoyable and hassle free. |
| Research |
| Thoroughly research the area you are travelling through or to. Ensure that you have the most current maps and carry a GPS (global positioning system) if possible. |
| Tell a relative of your general itinerary and notify local police before travelling into remote areas. If you change your itinerary, let someone know. |
| Maintenance checks |
Have your vehicle serviced and checked by a competent mechanic to ensure there are no likely mishaps. Items to pay particular attention to are:
- Suspension components
- Steering linkages
- Wheel bearings
- Cooling system
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| Packing your gear right |
- Take only the necessary gear required for the trip
- Remember that an overloaded vehicle is more prone to mechanical failure and will respond differently in adverse weather conditions
- Allow for greater breaking distances, reduced cornering speeds and slower acceleration
Medical emergencies
- Carry a complete first aid kit and ensure that all personal and prescription medicines are well marked
- Carry a basic first aid manual that is up to date with current techniques
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| Roadside assistance |
- Ensure auto club memberships and insurance policies are up to date. Keep a list of contacts in your glove box
- Carry an appropriately sized fire extinguisher and fire blanket
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| Communications |
Keeping in contact can save lives. Carry the right communications equipment for your area of travel. These may include some or all of the below:
- Mobile phone (subject to service areas)
- Satellite phone (country or worldwide communications)
- CB radio (UHF or AM frequencies) for vehicle to vehicle
- HF radio (long distance and emergencies)
- EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
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| Road conditions |
| Check the road conditions before travelling into remote areas. Many Outback roads become impassable during the wet season and heavy fines apply for travelling on closed roads.
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| Know your vehicle
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Familiarise yourself with the vehicle and know how to access and change items such as:
- Spare tyre, jack and wheel brace
- Radiator hoses
- Fan belts
- Fuses
- Ensure you understand how to engage 4WD and how to lock/unlock free wheeling hubs (if fitted)
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Intriductionto4x4
