So, you’ve landed in Western Australia and you’re ready for the ultimate outback adventure! Hiring a 4WD & Camper Trailer package or an Off-Road Camper trailer might sound intimidating if you’ve never driven one before, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back. At Crikey Camper Hire, we specialise in making first-time off-roaders feel confident, informed, and excited. Here’s your friendly guide to mastering the basics of 4WD driving with a camper trailer without breaking a sweat.
Driving on Sand with an Off-Road Camper Trailer
Western Australia is home to some of the most stunning sandy landscapes—think golden coastal dunes and endless desert tracks. Driving on sand is all about preparation and smooth control, particularly if you are towing a trailer!
Lower your tyre pressure: This isn’t just a fancy trick; it’s essential for increasing traction so your tyres float on the sand instead of digging in. Don’t stress—we’ll show you exactly how to do it safely before you hit the road.
Keep a steady momentum: Imagine you’re gliding across the sand, not racing through it. Sudden stops or sharp turns can cause your wheels to sink, and nobody wants to spend their holiday digging out a bogged vehicle.
Choose the right gear: High range 4WD works for most sandy tracks, but if the sand is super soft, low range gives you extra pulling power. We’ll walk you through when and how to switch.
Alternatively, the flexibility of our 4WD and Camper Trailer package means you can leave your off-road camper trailer at your campsite, and tackle the beach and sand with just your 4WD.
Driving on Corrugations
Ever heard of corrugations? They’re those bumpy, rippled sections of unsealed roads that look harmless but can shake your teeth loose if you’re not careful. These are quite common in the Australian outback.
Find the “sweet spot” speed: Usually between 60–80 km/h, this speed helps your vehicle glide over the sand ridges instead of bouncing on every bump.
Avoid going too fast: Speeding might feel like a shortcut, but it’s a fast track to damaging your suspension and tyres—and putting massive stress on your camper trailer, not to mention your comfort.
Relax your grip: Hold the steering wheel firmly but not like you’re wrestling a crocodile. A loose grip lets the vehicle move naturally and keeps you in control.
Driving on Muddy Terrain
Rain in the outback can turn a dry track into a slippery challenge in minutes. Here’s how to keep things under control:
Use lower gears: This gives you better traction and control, so you don’t end up sliding like a kangaroo on ice.
Avoid sudden moves: Gentle acceleration and braking prevent wheel spin and keep you moving forward. Remember you have a heavy load behind you in the form or a camper trailer, so every move needs to be deliberate and slow.
Stick to higher ground: Deep ruts can trap your wheels, so aim for the firmest, driest path.
Essential Recovery Gear
Even the best drivers can get stuck—it’s part of the adventure! That’s why we provide the necessary heavy-duty recovery gear and show you how to use it to recover both the 4WD and Trailer should you get stuck.
- Snatch strap and rated shackles for safe towing.
- Shovel for digging out if needed.
- Tyre deflator and compressor to adjust pressures on the go.
- Traction boards to give your tyres grip when the ground says ‘nope’.
With the right tips and gear, your 4WD journey will be unforgettable for all the right reasons.
Your Off-Road Adventure Awaits with Crikey Camper Hire!
Mastering a 4WD while also towing your camper trailer is the key to unlocking the freedom of WA’s most remote and picturesque locations. By applying the above tips, including deflating tyres, to maintaining slow and deliberate movements on tricky terrain, you can confidently tackle everything Western Australia has to throw at you, be that sand, corrugations and mud. With Crikey Camper Hire’s 4WD and Camper packages, and supplied essential recovery gear, you and your family are fully equipped to have an unforgettable adventure!
