Driving in the Outback

Inland Australia is a harsh, unforgiving environment where traversing shouldn’t be taken lightly. Follow these tips to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Prepare

First thing, check the road reports and your destination to get a feel for what you’ll need for supplies. It’s not uncommon to drive more than 100 kilometers before seeing another town, and many remote gas stations will overcharge so consider carrying an extra gas canister. Australia is also one of the driest habitats, so be fully stocked on water as breaking down in the middle of the desert can be a life-or-death situation.

Drive something rugged

Many of the roads in the Outback are unsealed gravel roads. Some places will require a 4×4, so do some research and don’t expect any sympathy when your sedan gets stuck. For the roads where 4-wheel drive is required, they don’t mean fueling up an Escalade. They mean a high clearance 4×4 with a driver who knows how to navigate different grades and surfaces, inflate and deflate tires and is able to use a carrying axe if he gets stuck.

Mind the wildlife

Australia is filled with strange and dangerous wildlife, and it’s fairly normal to come across herds of cattle and sheep on unsealed roads. Emus, kangaroos, wallabies, snakes, goannas and feral pigs are a common sight, as well; just remember not to swerve around them, just slow down and honk, as you don’t want to lose control on the gravel. Locusts can also be a problem in the dry season, traveling in swarms and clogging up the radiators of tourists.

Respect the locals

Many roads go through private cattle stations, so if you go off the main road, you’re trespassing. If there’s a place you want to check out in such an area, its best to contact the station ahead of time and get permission. You’ll also find that these roads go through gates — some open, some closed. Use common courtesy and leave them as you find them; don’t open a gate and leave without closing it.

Stay safe

Many roads become impassable during the wet season, as the rain can do a lot of damage to the unsealed roads. Trespassing on closed roads could result in a fine up to $5,000, and certainly don’t trespass on a road that says “4×4 required.” Open roads aren’t a guarantee of safety either, so stay vigilant for creek swells and muddy flats.