Travel Tips

The freedom of being able to hook up and go gives you the option to do just that. No doubt you will have a destination in mind, but here are a few tips to make your nomadic lifestyle more relaxing and enjoyable.

If this is your first adventure, you may like to make it a small one to iron out the wrinkles. It can be hard to know what to pack. Perhaps stay close to home initially, so you have the option of removing or adding your equipment.

If you have an itinerary, make it a flexible one. You never know what the weather will bring, nor will you realise how much you like or dislike a place until you arrive. When you first arrive in a caravan park, pay for one night initially, as you may choose to move on once you've had a good look around. Most caravan parks offer the 7th night free, so ask beforehand if the deal still applies if you choose to stay on.

The rumour mill will have you believing, if you don't book ahead, you will never get in. That will apply if you are after a specific site or wanting to stay in a small town with only one caravan park available. However towns like Broome always fit you in, usually in the local PCYC or Gun Club. You will still have facilities such as toilets and showers.

When you are travelling, it is best to hit the road early before the heat of the day kicks in. Considering you will be carrying weight, travelling during the cooler hours is much kinder to your vehicle. And remember, long distances between roadhouses should have you carry extra fuel.

It is much easier to have fridges than freezers on board. Fridges are less demanding on your power source. To cryvac your food means you only need refrigeration, plus your meat will last for weeks (the supermarket silverside is a perfect example). Just dont cryvac anything with bones as they could puncture the bag.

Always try to pull in and set up camp before beer o'clock (5pm).This is the time to mingle and meet fellow nomads. Remember, they are the ones who will provide you with information and recommendations.

If you're planning to work your way around Australia, there is plenty of seasonal work, such as fruit picking. If you have a trade, chances are you will leave town because there is too much work. Remote areas take on mature couples, as opposed to backpackers, as mature travellers are willing to stick around longer and be more reliable. If you can cook a barbecue, make a bed or clean a bathroom, then you are effectively qualified as a short order cook, kitchenhand, housekeeper and cleaner. If you like a town, simply ask around.