Travelling with your camper or caravan provides you with independence, self-sufficiency, and a sense of control. However, when planning a trip, it is important to consider the safety aspects.
When planning a camping trip, we tend to think of what to pack in terms of food, drinks, recreation equipment, and comfort items. But safety considerations are the most essential part of holiday planning. So, how can we travel more safely?
1 – PLAN YOUR TRIP CAREFULLY
Have you serviced your vehicle? Are you able to competently tow your rig? These questions are vital to address before heading off into the sunset. A serviced vehicle minimises the chances of a breakdown and up-to-date driving skills will help you along the way. If you’re travelling a large distance, it might even be useful to take along some spare parts and have the knowledge of how to use them. Small towns may not have timely access to replacement parts, so it’s best to be prepared.
Let a friend or family member know your itinerary and check in at each stop. That way, if you don’t hit a target, someone will know your approximate location and be able to report it if necessary.
2 – SAFETY EQUIPMENT
A mobile phone is fine if you’re sticking to the beaten track. Mobile reception in Australia is great in populated areas, but if you’re heading into the outback, you may want to consider a personal locator beacon (PLB). A PLB can be activated anywhere, and your distress signal will be received by emergency services.
A CB radio is another option for emergency communication, and it also helps with communicating with others on the road. If you do become lost, staying with your vehicle is the best chance you have at rescue. Not only will it provide much-needed shade, it will be easier for rescuers to spot a vehicle than a lone person.
3 – HYDRATION AND NUTRITION
If the worst was to happen and you became lost, it is vital that you have a good amount of drinking water with you, especially if touring the outback. Water is more important than food to human survival, so don’t eat unless you have enough water to aid digestion.
If you lack a water source, remember that grain-eating birds fly to water sources at dawn and dusk, so look for low-flying birds.
4 – MOZZIE CONTROL
Mosquitos are well-known vectors of serious diseases, such as Ross River fever and malaria. Long sleeves, if weather appropriate, are good protection against the blood-sucking insects, and it is advisable to take along some good quality mosquito repellent. Remember to apply mosquito repellent after your SPF suncream protection, as applying it before can affect the performance of sunscreen.
4- PRE-PLANNING
Plan, plan, plan. This was mentioned previously, but it’s absolutely essential to plan ahead. A solid safety plan and precautions gives you a greater sense of confidence to enjoy your trip. Safe travels!
THE NEXT STEPS
A Hybrid camper could be what you need to add more adventure to your weekends, contact the SWAG Camper Trailers team today. We’d be happy to help and answer any enquiries you have about our Campers, Hybrids and Caravans.
