Camping is the quintessential Australian experience. Camping and cooking outside are part of Australian culture. Over 500 national parks are covering 28 million hectares.
The Australians are hardy and relaxed, adapting their environment to it rather than dominating. These traits have become more important after the Bush Fire Crisis in early 2020, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic later this year. Aussies are hoping to share their incredible nature experiences again with visitors after uniting to preserve their national parkland. Follow these tips to enjoy the best socially distant outdoor expertise in Australia.
Tips on camping in Australia
- Be prepared. Australian weather can be harsh and unpredictable. Bring plenty of water when camping or cooking outside. Pack the appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather.
- Set up your camp properly. Avoid camping in low-lying or poorly drained places. Instead, look for areas with hard soil and better drainage. Remember to avoid setting up under loose, dead, or overhanging tree branches.
- Respect the local wildlife. They are wild animals and should not be fed or approached for their safety, as well as yours.
- Be a considerate camper. It is not nice to see campers disrespectful. Noise should be kept to a minimum during the night. When you leave, take all your rubbish with you.
How To Cook Outside Safely
- Stay up-to-date. When camping or cooking outside, it’s important to adhere to all safety instructions. A fire ban means that you can’t light a stove or barbecue using solid fuels or a campfire. Check-in regularly for updates by downloading the Fires Near Me App.
- Only light fires where they are designated. Never leave a fire unattended.
- Use the camp facilities. Electric BBQs are available at many campsites across Australia. They’re a safe way to cook outside.
- Have you ever considered a solar-powered cooker? Perth averages 265 sunny days a year. Why not invest in solar cookware to eliminate the need for an outdoor fire? The higher-end models are capable of reaching 500degF and are environmentally friendly.
Australian camping essentials
- Be a swagman. Swag tents are ideal for camping or cooking outdoors. The modern swag is a rolled-up backpack that takes its name from 19th-century swagmen who walked miles to find work during the Great Depression. Start your adventure with your swag.
- Do not forget to bring your cooler. Eskys are a popular camping brand and are considered essential. While exploring, keep your beer and food ice-cold. Bunnings and K-Mart sell them cheaply.
- Keep away from animals in a rooftop tent. You can attach a roof tent to a pickup truck. These vehicles are convenient and comfortable and allow you to cook and camp outdoors with ease.
- Motor homes are a great option for those who want to travel comfortably and safely. They come with self-contained kitchens that allow you to cook your meals.
Conservation when camping
- Buy a National Parks Annual Pass. Save money on vehicle entrance fees in New South Wales while supporting facilities, saving threatened species, and conserving culturally significant places.
- Support local businesses. After the bushfire crisis, grassroots organizations are actively promoting businesses in need of support. Select camping destinations with Roadtrip for Good. Skip the supermarkets and instead Fill your Esky.
- Join a conservation trip or volunteer. Volunteering opportunities are available in national parks, including for bush regeneration and fire recovery. Ecotourism Australia showcases tour providers that offer multi-day conservation and volunteering experiences. Conservation can be a part of your camping experience and will help to preserve this Australian tradition for future generations.
