The Outback of Australia is very remote and care should be taken when driving through this vast and unique area. Follow these important tips for safe outback motoring:

• Check the best time of year to travel.
• Check your route carefully.
• Before leaving for your trip, give someone a copy of your itinerary and agree dates and times to contact them to let them know that all is well.
• Ensure your vehicle is suitable for outback travel.
• Do not overload the vehicle.
• Consider hiring a two-way radio if intending to travel in very remote areas.
• Carry the best maps you can, but always check with the locals on road conditions, fuel availability and weather conditions.
• Plan your fuel consumption and refuelling points. Remember that service stations in the outback may have limited opening hours.
• Do not stray from your intended route as you may consume extra fuel or you could get lost.
• When travelling on very remote roads, inform local authorities of your route and intended arrival time.
• Carry sufficient supplies of food, water and fuel.
• Try to avoid driving at dusk, night or dawn. Wild or farm animals may stray onto the road and their behaviour can be unpredictable.
• When driving on an unmade road towards an approaching vehicle, pull off to the left of the road, keeping the right-hand wheels on the road surface at all times. Slow down but do not stop as the road shoulders may be soft.
• Be aware of dust on the road which may conceal potholes and washouts.
• Always carry an emergency supply of water – five litres per person per day in hot areas.
• If you break down, stay with your vehicle. It is much easier to locate a vehicle than a person.