In our vast country, so many people associate Australia and the ‘land below’ with the outback and its red center image, the streets full of red ocher dust and the eucalyptus trees that seem to harmonize it all.
Expect to see large herds of kangaroos in the wild, breaking through what appears to be an endless expanse of natural grassland or “bush” as the locals like to call it. Views of sheer cliffs and rushing waterfalls that fill the gorge below. There are numerous landmarks in our great continent. So whether you are an Aussie, looking to explore what the motherland has to offer or an abroad backpacker, looking to discover, here is my guide to planning that Aussie road trip. Getting Car Service:So you have decided to go on this journey. The very first thing you should do before setting off on any long journey is to ensure it’s roadworthy, safe to ride, and that everything is working properly. If you are coming out of Melbourne’s northwestern suburb of Victoria, get a car service at West Airport is a good starting point. This way, areas like brakes, tires (including spare), radiator, and wheel alignment can be assessed and make sure that you do not start your adventure on a bad note. Choose your destination and route:When starting in Victoria, select your destination and the route you’ll take. This includes whether you are taking the main road or feel confident enough to follow the route less traveled. While touring this brilliant country is an awesome thing to do, it is best to keep that in mind “Lap” it can take lots of things. It’s best if you take this trip with a four-wheeled vehicle or a vehicle that can handle rough terrain, particularly if it is going off-road. It can even take lots of free time, if you plan to see lots of countries. Supplies the required items:If you plan on going any particular route, including off-road, be sure you stock up. This includes things like fuel, food and water. Make sure you stock up on food, snacks and drinks at the start of your trip, and be sure you plan to find a place”where you can fill the tank“, as with any very long country, there may be large gaps between refills. You might think ‘Water, definitely that’s not as much of a concern as fuel.’ However, on any long journey, particularly through the interior of the Central region, it can be critical, as it can get very harsh and hot. Find out when you will be traveling:When planning your trip, traveling at different times of the year can be more appropriate, particularly with Australia’s varied changes in weather and temperature. While it may look like summer time is the best time to travel, particularly if you have kids, with extended vacation periods it can rely upon what you want to do. If you are searching for a beach vacation, summer could be the perfect time “the beach is so inviting…” whereas Victorian winters can be the ideal opportunity to head into the tropical warmth of the north. So when you plan your next trip, car wrap with suitcases, not check-in desk. Remember, this is a big country, set some achievable driving goals and do not forget to take the time to get a feel for your route and enjoy your vacation at your own pace. Happy Traveling! |