Understanding Outback Terrain and Challenges
There is nothing more invigorating than the excitement you can get from packing up your life into a bag, a suitcase or a car and taking life by the reins for an impromptu (or planned) outback adventure. However, the Australian outback presents a multitude of challenges due to its vast distances, unsealed roads and extreme weather.
Travellers often encounter long stretches between civilisation and fuel stops, while gravel, sand and rocky tracks can become hard to drive through, especially after rain. Additionally, wildlife such as kangaroos, cattle and emus frequently cross the road at dawn and dusk.
While this can sound like the perfect adventure for some who are prepared to take on the beast that is Australia’s red centre, choosing the right vehicle and preparing it thoroughly is essential for both safety and comfort.
Essential Vehicle Features for the Outback
1. Four-Wheel Drive Capability
When you are looking through your dream cars to take on a tour around Australia, it is very important to choose one with a 4WD system that includes low-range gearing. Low-range mode will allow you extra torque at each wheel, so you can drive over rocks, power through soft sand and climb steep hills without getting stuck. If you’re thinking about towing something behind your vehicle, this will become a very important aspect of your vehicle that you will need to consider when searching for just the right fit for you.
Additionally, make sure you can switch easily between on-road and off-road modes, typically labelled 2H, 4H and 4L, from the driver’s seat.
2. High Ground Clearance
Try to have around 20 cm (about 8 inches) of space between the ground and the lowest part of your vehicle. This extra room helps your car roll over rocks and tree roots without damaging the underside. Before you set off, you can check this by parking on level ground and measuring the gap, or simply just look under your car to see how much room there is. If you feel as if there isn’t ample space, you can consider adding a small lift or swapping to slightly larger tyres.
3. Mechanical Reliability
Before you purchase or decide to rent your 4WD car, have a mechanic or specialist inspect the car for a standard service to ensure its safety. They will check for oil leaks under the engine, examine tyres and make sure the cooling system is in good condition.
If you’re looking at getting a car second-hand for your adventure, it is advised to ask to see the service history as regular oil changes, tyre rotations, and coolant flushes are all positive signs of a healthy, well-maintained car. You don’t want to get stuck up a creek without a paddle, or in this case, an unreliable car.
4. Fuel Range and Efficiency
In the Australian Outback, distances between petrol stations can stretch for hundreds of kilometres, so it’s crucial to plan your range before heading off. Select a vehicle fitted with a factory-installed large-capacity tank or one that can safely carry additional petrol.
You can even plan out your trek and estimate how long it will take you between petrol stations so you can calculate your fuel spending and consumption. Take into account the terrain, the weight and load, along with your driving style, and map your route around set refuelling points. Even considering carrying extra fuel can benefit you as it not only extends your reach but also provides you with peace of mind.
5. Storage and Payload
When going on a road trip to the outback, having sufficient storage and payload capacity in your vehicle is going to be a deciding factor in what you take with you and what you leave behind. A common rule is to pack 80% of the things you had initially planned to bring with you, hence the 80% packing rule.
Along with your valuables, you will need to consider camping gear if you’re roughing it, food and water supplies, as well as spare parts and recovery equipment for any unexpected issues.
If you want extra space on your car, roof racks, canopies or heavy-duty trays can significantly increase your carrying volume.
6. Suspension and Durability
In outback conditions, a durable suspension system is essential not only for a smooth ride but also for protecting your vehicle’s undercarriage and chassis against bumpy, corrugated tracks and hidden rocks. Look for 4WD models equipped with heavy-duty springs and shock absorbers for increased loads, as these components will absorb impacts more effectively and reduce wear on critical parts. Steel bash plates beneath the engine, gearbox and fuel tank offer added protection against sharp obstacles. It is important that you choose a vehicle with a proven track record of off-road resilience and regularly inspect suspension bushes and mounts.
7. Safety and Recovery Equipment
While modern safety features like stability control, ABS and multiple airbags are important, extra equipment can turn a roadside accident into a manageable situation rather than an emergency. Ideally, you want to carry two matching full-size spare tyres along with a heavy-duty jack and wheel brace. Your first-aid kit should cover everything from minor cuts to major accidents. Additionally, for communication beyond mobile range, bring a satellite phone or personal locator beacon.
Thorough Vehicle Preparation Checklist
Mechanical and Spare Parts:
- Full service (engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering)
- Check/replace belts, hoses, filters, and fluids
- Spare fan/alternator belts, radiator hoses, fuses, bulbs, and wiring
- Tyre check (including spares), ensure they are suitable for off-road use
- Carry at least two spare tyres and a puncture repair kit
Emergency and Recovery:
- Recovery gear: winch, snatch straps, shovel, traction boards
- First aid kit, fire extinguisher
- Satellite phone or UHF radio for communication
- Navigation tools: GPS and paper maps
- Water (at least 5 litres per person per day), extra food supplies
Comfort and Practicality:
- Ample storage for gear and supplies
- Camping equipment: tent, sleeping bags, stove, portable chairs
- Shade (eg. tarp) for rest stops
- Sun protection: hats, sunscreen, sunglasses
Planning and Safety:
- Plan your route and fuel stops in advance, as prices and availability vary
- Check road and weather conditions before and during your trip
- Never leave your vehicle if you break down. Help will find you more easily if you stay with it.
Financial Considerations
If you don’t necessarily have a good credit history, don’t worry, you can still finance your car. We recommend looking into bad credit car loans Australia providers that offer flexible deposit requirements and longer repayment terms to help spread the cost. However, keep in mind that you should always compare interest rates and fees across lenders to avoid excessive charges.
When estimating your monthly repayments, make sure you leave a buffer for unexpected repairs or accessory upgrades such as roof racks and bull bars. Additionally, 4WDs that have been used heavily off-road will lose value faster than vehicles used for regular use so it is important that you consider the depreciation of the vehicle if you are planning on reselling it later down the line.
