A Beginner’s Checklist for Car Camping Around Australia | RoamAU

Because roughing it doesn’t have to mean suffering.

So, you’re ready to hit the open road and sleep under the stars — good on ya! Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or the great Aussie lap, car camping is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful, dusty, and sometimes kangaroo-blocked land of ours.

But before you chuck a swag in the back and call it a day, there are a few essentials to pack that’ll make your trip smoother than a fresh bitumen highway in outback SA.

Here’s your no-BS, fair-dinkum car camping checklist, with just enough humour to distract you from the mozzies.

1. The Sleeping Setup

Let’s be honest — there’s nothing “fun” about waking up with a rock in your back and condensation dripping on your forehead.

Checklist:
• Quality swag, tent, or rooftop setup
• Inflatable or roll-up mattress
• Sleeping bag rated for Aussie temps
• Pillow (don’t be a hero — use one)

Tip: Don’t forget a ground tarp. It’s the difference between camping and swamp training.

2. Off-Grid Power & Lighting

Even the most rugged camper needs to charge a phone or power a fridge. Plus, staring at your torch app for 3 hours isn’t exactly bush immersion.

Checklist:
• Portable power station or solar panel setup
• Rechargeable lanterns or LED strip lights
• Headlamp (so you can see the dunny in the dark)

Bonus: Red light mode makes you look like a stealth bush ninja.

3. Cooking Gear That Won’t Let You Down

Cooking over a fire is romantic... until it’s windy and you forgot matches.

Checklist:
• Portable gas stove or butane cooker
• Cast iron pan or lightweight cookware
• Reusable cutlery, plates, cups
• Esky or 12V fridge
• Biodegradable soap + sponge

Pro move: Pre-chop your onions. Crying in the bush is still crying.

4. Toiletries & Cleanliness

This isn’t Survivor — you’re allowed to wash.

Checklist:
• Biodegradable wipes
• Toilet paper (don’t skimp!)
• Hand sanitiser
• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Small shovel for “natural” stops

Respect the land — and bury your business.

5. Recovery & Emergency Essentials

Flat tyre? Stuck in sand? You’ll thank yourself later.

Checklist:
• Air compressor + tyre deflator
• Snatch strap or recovery kit
• First aid kit
• Jumper leads
• Multi-tool or folding shovel

No one wants to call RACV from the Nullarbor.

6. Navigation & Entertainment

Google Maps won’t help when you’ve got zero bars and 400 kangaroos.

Checklist:
• Paper map or offline nav app (like Hema)
• UHF radio for convoy banter
• Playlist or speaker
• Cards, books, or a good yarn

7. Clothing & Weather Gear

Australia: where it can be 40°C at noon and freezing by 9pm.

Checklist:
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Warm jacket + beanie
• Hat + sunnies
• Thongs (yes, the footwear)
• Swimmers for any surprise dip

Final Thoughts

Car camping around Australia is the ultimate freedom trip — no flights, no bookings, just dirt roads, cold beers, and campfire chats.

Start with the right setup, bring a good attitude, and always pack extra snacks.

Ready to gear up?

Explore our top Camping Essentials here — handpicked for real Aussie adventures.