Heading into the wild unknown of the Australian outback may come with a mixed bag of emotions. While it can certainly provide for an exciting adventure, it could also mean tangling with extreme weather conditions, annoying (and potentially life-threatening) insects, and of course, the abundant wildlife that the land down under is famous for (not to mention some crazy terrain). However, it could also be the trip of a lifetime, full of vistas untouched by man and unspoiled by the creations of man. So if you’re looking for adventure in the outback, here are just a few things you may want to consider before you jump in your Jeep and head out into the open.
- Map it. Knowing where you’re going isn’t always that adventurous, but without a fixed destination on the map you could easily get lost in the outback. And that far away from civilization, you may have a tough time powering up your GPS (or getting a signal). So go old-school with paper maps, a compass, and a list of landmarks to help you out. Even better, go with a guide.
- Dress appropriately. Anyone who saw the second Sex in the City movie (which admittedly, probably wasn’t too many of you) no doubt scoffed at the crazy outfits the fab four of New York City wore on their camel ride. Don’t find yourself stuck in the same boat when your tour the outback. Bring clothing that is appropriate for the weather, which could be by turns sweltering hot or pouring rain. In either case, you’ll want clothing that covers and protects your skin from the elements. And for sunny days, make sure you have plenty of broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock.
- Bring plenty of food and water.You should always pack ample water when heading out into a desert environment. Although not all of the outback is dusty and dry, you don’t necessarily know when you’ll be able to find drinkable water. So always make sure you have extra. You’ll be especially happy if you get detained for some reason, and of course, if you get lost. The same goes for food. Unless you’re on a hunting expedition or you happen to know your way around edible plants of the outback, you need to ensure that you have the food needed to see you through your trip.
- Pack a first aid kit. You should always plan for the worst when you’re beyond the reach of immediate help. This means having everything from bandages and tourniquets to aspirin and EpiPens. This is a necessity when you’re out of touch with the rest of the world, including the services of first responders and medical professionals.
- Contract with a travel agency. Instead of risking your neck by bouncing over sand dunes until you drop your Grand Cherokee transfer case, why not go out with a tour group (and more importantly, a guide)? Whether you’re visiting the outback for the first time or going on your ump-teenth outing, a tour guide can likely take you to a few spots you’ve never seen before, or at least ensure that you reach your destinations safely and expediently.