Thursday, February 2, 2012

Australia: Top Tips for Planning a Camping Trip

Lucky enough to be going on or considering a camping trip to Australia? Home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, and offering plenty of world class camping and caravan parks, it really is a dream destination for tent or camper van fans.

Explore your options

Fully equipped camping and caravan parks dot the country, and more standard camp grounds are common in rural areas. Official camp sites with amenities will normally not come free, but won't break the bank. If you're willing to settle for no facilities and just the wilderness to keep you company, bush camping is usually free, but in some areas requires a permit. Before setting up tent, make sure bush camping is allowed in the area so as not to endanger yourself or local flora and fauna. For travellers wishing to travel in style, caravan rental is widely available throughout Australia.

Before setting off

Be sure to dedicate some time to thorough research on the area you've chosen to explore. Not only is it good to know what's worth seeing locally, but also whether there are any potential dangers to be aware of. Weather in Australia can be treacherous so be sure to read up on how to dress and how to avoid sunstroke or dehydration. Local insects and reptiles are completely different to those you can encounter elsewhere so find out what you can do to stay safe and repel them. Consult guide books and pop into a pharmacy once on Aussie soil to ask for specific advice and top up on potentially lifesaving remedies.