Ready to hit the open road, breathe in the fresh air, and conquer Western Australia’s incredible outback? You’ll want to make sure you bring the right camping gear for your trip!
Packing camping gear for a 4WD camping adventure isn’t just about cramming your bags with everything you can find and hoping for the best, it’s a basically a science.
Forget something important, and you could be up a dry creek without a paddle. Pack smart, and you’re setting yourself up for a trip full of Insta-worthy moments and unforgettable memories.
10 Best Camping Equipment Ideas for Your Next 4WD Road Trip Down Under
This is the only checklist you’ll need to be packing like a pro for a 4WD camping trip through WA’s jaw-dropping landscapes. Let’s dive in!
- Essential Camping Gear
- Kitchen Setup
- Food and Water Supplies
- Navigation and Safety Gear
- Tools and Recovery Gear
- Clothing and Personal Gear
- Lighting and Power
- Environmental and Hygiene Essentials
- Photography and Wildlife Gear
- Extras and Entertainment
We’ve put this list together with all the necessities and camping gear recommendations that have benefited our trips or that we wish we had remembered!
1. Essential Camping Gear: The Basics
Let’s start with the camping gear essentials, aka the stuff you’ll kick yourself for forgetting.
Tent and Shelter
A rooftop tent (conveniently provided with all 4xploring Rentals vehicles, naturally) is your ticket to comfy, wildlife-proof sleep in WA’s rugged terrain.
Pro tip: pack a tarp. It doubles as shade in the blazing midday sun and rain cover for surprise downpours. If you’re renting one of our vehicles then you’re all set with included awnings.
Sleeping Essentials
For your convenience, all of our 4×4 camper rentals come with an inflatable mattress, fresh bedding and pillows, but if you’re planning on getting extra cozy then you’ll thank yourself for bringing extra during those crisp Australian desert nights.
Camping Chairs and Table
Unless you’re cool with eating off your lap, lightweight foldable chairs and a portable table are non-negotiables. Picture yourself lounging under the stars, worth it, right? (and before you ask, if you’re hiring one of our vehicles, yes you will find a fold out table and chairs included)
Our vehicles come with a heap of included and optional addons to take the stress out of planning.
You may also like: Best 4WD Camping Spots In WA
2. Kitchen Setup: Avoid Hangry Campers
When it comes to camp cooking, preparation is everything. Forget sporks and sad cans of beans, why not go gourmet in the great outdoors.
Portable Stove or Grill
Our rentals include a stove and gas that should last you a good while, but pack extra gas canisters for longer trips. There’s nothing worse than running out mid-stir-fry.
Cookware and Utensils
A solid pan, a sturdy pot, and a trusty spatula go a long way. Don’t forget tongs for BBQ nights or a sharp knife for prepping those gourmet camp meals. Bonus points if you bring a cold brew machine for morning coffee (it’s a game changer).
Cooler or Portable Fridge
Warm drinks? Limp veggies? Not on our watch. Our 4WDs come with built in fridge and freezer combo to keep everything chilled, but tossing in an extra portable cooler for overflow never hurts.
3. Food and Water Supplies
Food is more than survival; it’s your fuel for tackling WA’s stunning trails and sun-drenched beaches.
Non-Perishables
Stock up on the camping classics: pasta, rice, canned soups, and some tasty snacks like chocolate or jerky. A stash of energy bars or trail-mix can save you when hunger strikes mid-hike.
Fresh Produce
Start your trip with easy-to-cook veggies and fruits. Once you’ve polished those off, lean into your non-perishable stash like a camping boss.
Water Containers
WA’s remote areas aren’t known for abundant fresh water, so pack plenty. Think 10-20L jugs—and refill them every chance you get. Hydrated you = happy you.
Here are some of the best camping recipes for you to try!
4. Navigation and Safety Camping Gear: Don’t Get Lost (or Stuck)
Western Australia is massive, and phone service? Practically nonexistent in some areas. Make sure you’re prepared:
GPS Device and Maps
Your rental’s got built in GPS, but a paper map is your best backup plan. You don’t want to be “that person” relying on Google Maps in the middle of nowhere.
Satellite Phone or Personal Locator Beacon
Remote adventures call for big safety moves. These devices let you call for help even when you’re off the grid. It’s peace of mind in your pocket. Our vehicles come included with personal locator beacons (aren’t we prepared?).
First Aid Kit
Band-aids? Check. Snake bite gear? Double-check. Don’t forget bug spray for WA’s surprisingly persistent mozzies.
All of our vehicles come with a first aid kit and snakebite kit, Read up more on: Snake Bite Handling Tips
You may also like: The Best Beach 4WD Camping Spots in Western Australia
5. Camping Tools and Vehicle Recovery Gear
WA’s trails are beautiful, but they don’t mess around. Be ready for anything, especially if heading on a beach trip!
Basic Tool Kit
You don’t need to be a mechanic to carry the essentials: a tire gauge, pliers, zip ties, and duct tape can save the day.
Recovery Tracks and Winch
Get bogged in sand or mud? Recovery tracks are your best friend. Pair them with a winch for a one-two punch against tricky terrain.
Tire Repair Kit and Compressor
Flat tires happen. A repair kit and compressor mean you’ll be back on the road in no time.
Stay tuned for out upcoming safety guide to off-road driving.
6. Clothing and Personal Camping Gear: Dress Smart, Stay Comfortable
WA’s weather can go from “scorching” to “freezing” in hours. Dress accordingly:
Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
Perfect for sunny days. Add a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to up your sun-safe game.
Thermal Layers and Waterproof Jacket
For chilly evenings or rainy surprises, these are your lifesavers.
Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots for the trails. Comfy sandals for around camp. Simple.
7. Camp Lighting and Power
When night falls, you’ll need more than your phone flashlight.
LED Headlamps and Lanterns
Headlamps free up your hands for nighttime adventures, while lanterns create the perfect campfire vibe.
Portable Solar Charger
Keep your devices alive without draining your car battery. Plus, it’s eco-friendly; win-win!
Our vehicles come equip with solar roof panel and power ports, as well as portable tent lighting and awning lights, so you’re all set.
8. Environmental and Hygiene Essentials: Leave No Trace
Let’s keep Australias beauty pristine as we found it.
Biodegradable Soap and Toilet Paper
Eco-friendly products keep your impact low. For waste, dig small holes and cover them, nature will thank you.
Reusable Containers and Utensils
Ditch single-use plastics. Reusable gear is good for the planet and your packing space.
Check out some environmental tips to: Leave No Trace
9. Photography and Wildlife Gear
WA’s landscapes are bucket-list-worthy. Make sure you’ve got the camping gear to do them justice.
Camera and Tripod
From golden sunsets to starry skies, you’ll want to capture it all. Don’t skimp on extra batteries!
Binoculars
Spot kangaroos, emus, and other native wildlife without getting too close for comfort.
Drone
Drone photography is an absolute game changer when it comes to travel. Check out our website and instagram for some of our drone shots for inspo!
Check out some of the: Best Cameras for Wildlife Photography
10. Extras and Entertainment: The Little Things Matter
It’s the small stuff that turns a good trip into a great one:
Books or Travel Guides
Great for downtime or learning more about WA’s fascinating history. Nothing like reading your favourite book on a private beach!
Journal and Pen
Jot down your adventure highlights, it’ll make the memories last a lifetime.
Water Gear
Heading to one of WA’s gorgeous beaches or rivers? Bring a snorkel to explore underwater life, or an underwater phone cover to snap photos of coral reefs. Kayakers might even consider an inflatable kayak or paddleboard for tranquil bays.
Surfboard
Western Australia is home to some epic surf spots. Strap a board to your rental and catch a few waves before hitting the road again.
Bicycle
For those moments when you want to ditch the car and explore the area on two wheels. Perfect for trails or cruising through quiet coastal towns.
Guitar or Ukulele
Honestly, the camp guitar guy is a bit of a meme at this point, but we understand the appeal of music around campfire.
Board Games or Cards
Rainy evening? Long downtime at camp? A deck of cards or a portable board game like Catan can keep everyone entertained.
Fishing Gear
Many campsites near WA’s beaches or rivers are perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Pack a rod, tackle, and a bit of patience, and you might just catch your dinner. Just be sure to check the local areas fishing laws!
These extras can elevate your trip from functional to unforgettable. Sure, none of these things will make or break the trip but they might just make your camping trip the one you talk about for years to come.
You may also like: The Best Beach 4WD Camping Spots in Western Australia
Wrapping Up
And there you have it, our camping gear recommendations to make the most out of your next road trip. With the right gear and a sense of adventure, Western Australia and beyond is yours to explore!
Ready to hit the road? Book a vehicle today! and start planning your outback Australian adventure!
Not sure what vehicle to choose? Check out our camper vehicles page with all the specs and features of our fleet.
Safe travels, and get ready to unlock adventure!
