Vehicle &
Remote Travel
Australia is big and empty between towns. A breakdown, a closed road or a flooded crossing can turn a drive into an overnight stay. Pack the car so that is an inconvenience, not an emergency.
If it's flooded, forget it. Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater. In an emergency call Triple Zero (000).
Ten Minutes That Matter
Most roadside emergencies are decided before the key turns.
Leave a Trip Plan
- Tell someone your route, your stops and when you'll arrive
- Agree on when they raise the alarm if they haven't heard from you
- Check in when you get there
The Vehicle
- Tyres, including the spare, plus a jack and wheel brace that work
- Oil, coolant and a full tank
- Know your fuel range and where the next fuel is
The Conditions
- Road closures and conditions for your whole route
- Weather, fire danger and flood warnings
- Offline maps downloaded, and a paper map as backup
Build It in Three Layers
Start with the everyday layer and add as you go further out.
Everyday
- Drinking water and a few long-life snacks
- First aid kit and a torch
- Phone charger and power bank
- Blanket, hat and sunscreen
- Jumper leads or a jump starter
Out of Town
- Water for everyone for at least a full day and night
- Tyre repair kit and compressor
- Hi-vis vest and warning triangle
- Basic tools, tape and cable ties
- Paper map and a UHF radio
Outback and Tracks
- Several days of water and food
- A registered distress beacon (PLB)
- Second spare tyre and recovery gear you know how to use
- Extra fuel in approved containers
- Shade tarp, rope and a signal mirror
Stay With the Vehicle
Searchers find cars. They struggle to find people on foot.
Don't walk for help in the heat.
Your vehicle is shade, shelter and the biggest signal you have. Leaving it is how breakdowns turn deadly.
First Hour
- Call 000 if you have any signal, then try UHF
- Get off the road and make the car visible: bonnet up, hazard lights, something bright on the roof
- Take stock of water, food and phone battery
Staying Put
- Stay in the shade and rest through the heat of the day
- Sip water regularly. Heat and effort can double what you need
- Do any work in the cool of morning or evening
Getting Found
- Lay out a large V or X on open ground
- Flash a mirror at aircraft by day, a torch by night
- Set off your beacon if life is at risk
Check Before You Drive
Every state and territory publishes live road closures. Search your state's road conditions site before a long trip.
Pack the Car Once, Be Ready Always
Kits, water storage and lighting that live in the boot.
More From the Survival Hub
This guide provides general preparedness information only. Always follow directions from authorities and emergency services. Store fuel in approved containers and within your state's limits. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).