You’ve planned your epic Australian 4×4 journey from the tropical coast of Broome, Darwin’s picturesque landscape, or crossing the desert from Perth. Crucially, you have secured your transport: a rugged 4×4 rental and camper trailer hire from Crikey Camper Hire. Now comes your final task: how to pack your 4WD and camper trailer.
Packing for a trip over a couple of weeks in a 4WD car hire and camper trailer can be a daunting experience. Maximising your space is vital. Fortunately, with a camper trailer from Crikey handling all of the heavy lifting (kitchen, pantry, bedding), you only have to focus on the inside 4×4 cabin.
In this guide, the experts at Crikey Camper Hire share our strategies to ensure you are packed and prepared for your outback adventure.
Essential Clothing Strategy
The outback weather can change dramatically, not just during seasons but also going from daytime to night. Your clothing choices need to be smart.
- Layering is Key: Don’t rely on a thick jumper. Temperatures in Broome or Darwin can dip quickly at night, up high or near water. We recommend packing a thin thermal layer, a versatile fleece, or a lightweight waterproof shell jacket. All of these are great, as they can roll up to a small, compact size.
- Quick-Dry Clothing is King: Don’t pack heavy cotton (which absorbs moisture and takes ages to dry). Prioritise packing synthetic materials, which can dry quicker, and be packed more tightly.
- Clothing Cubes: Ditch floppy bags and large suitcases, and utilise compression-packed cubes, or packing cubes. Not only do packing cubes keep your items clean, but they also drastically reduce volume and stop clothing from spilling out into the 4WD.
Pack Essential Items
The beauty of a 4×4 trailer rental is that the trailer itself can hold all of the kitchen and utility gear, and if you hire a 4WD and Camper Trailer from Crikey Camper Hire, this is all packed for you!. It is still important to pack the 4WD with essential items, and it is important to ensure these items are stored in a safe, easy-to-access spot.
- Critical Medical Supplies: These should include any personal medication you require during your journey and a comprehensive first-aid kit. We recommend packing these in a place that is easy to access, such as within arm’s reach of the driver’s or passenger’s seat.
- Weather Essentials: Australia’s weather can get warm, and it is important that you prepare for our weather. Out in the outback, temperatures can reach over 40°C. Make sure to pack hats, sunscreen, sunglasses (especially if you are the driver), swimming gear (for when you want a spontaneous dip in a deep water hole, water bottles and mosquito repellent.
- Toiletries: When travelling in regional locations, the opportunity to pick up toiletries might be rare. We recommend packing toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoos, conditioners and any other essential toiletries before you travel.
- Electronics and Devices: Don’t forget to pack your phone and any chargers your devices require.
Pack Smart
Load heavier items at the bottom of the 4×4’s boot or canopy, ensuring they are secure. Once you have done this, you can pack the rest of the car around these items.
- Utilise the Trailers Storage: If you are travelling for a long period, we recommend packing relevant items in separate containers. All of the kitchen equipment, washing equipment, bathroom supplies, food supplies, etc can be stored in the camper trailer’s compartments.
- Use Soft Bags/Cases: Instead of using hard-shell suitcases, we recommend bringing soft bags/cases, as these fit into 4WDs much more easily.
- Quick-Access Essentials: Keep a small overnight bag or go bag ready packed with a headlamp, toiletries and pyjamas. This allows you to pull the bag out as soon as you get to your destination, which is great if you arrive later at night.
Packing smart and hiring a 4×4 rental with camper trailer means you can keep your driving cabin clear of bulky camping gear, allowing you to have a more spacious and relaxing drive as you explore everything the Australian outback has to offer.
Are you ready for your next adventure? Explore the ultimate 4×4 and camper trailer hire package with Crikey Camper Hire.
