Solar Power
This article is aimed towards the motorhome/caravan traveller, but is equally relevant to anyone trying to make use of solar energy to power devices whilst on-the-road.
[Feature Story]
Campers & Trailers
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about Trailers - including camper trailers, boat trailers and other trailer related accessories.
Portable Fridges
The debate over which fridge is the best on the market is one of the most contested discussions in the camping recreation. In this article we look at the range of features and the major issues to consider when comparing brands and models.
Blogs Index
Do you wish you had your own webpage to share your travel journals, log events you've been to, show off your family or sporting skills or share files and documents? Now you can, with an ExplorOz Blog.
Navigation
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about navigation - available equipment and how to use it.
Tyres
This pages provides an index of all content on the site related to Tyres and Rims with thumbnails and summaries of each article, along with links to distributors and manufacturers appearing in our Directory, links to related items for sale/wanted
Preparing a Vehicle for Towing
Everyone who intends to tow a caravan, or indeed any sort of trailer, needs to be aware that various tow vehicle and trailer combinations can behave in slightly different ways and certainly different from just driving the tow vehicle itself.
Inverters
This article discusses how Inverters work and why they are so desirable to many travellers.
Power & Electrics
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about vehicle Power and Electrics as it relates to setting up your vehicle and staying powered whilst on the road travelling, or stationary at a campsite.
Servicing
This topic contains detailed articles related to vehicle servicing, and general vehicle care.
Satellite TV
Satellite TV systems enable viewers to receive free to air and/or pay TV channels in remote locations where land-based television reception is either poor, or non-existent. In fact, Australians have had free to air Satellite TV since 1985.
Snorkel
Although significantly different, both petrol and diesel engines require a steady flow of air to operate. If the vehicle is not fitted with a snorkel, they do this by sucking air through the inner guard of the bonnet or just behind the grill.
GPS Units
GPS technology is improving all the time and brings both safety and navigational benefits to the recreational traveller.
Battery Power
In this article we explain why you might need an additional power source independent of the starting battery installed into your vehicle and we look in detail at types of batteries, how and where to mount them, the role of isolators and the diffe
GPS for Laptops and PDAs
Laptops and PDAs are very popular devices and it’s great to know that you can power them with GPS equipment.
Generator Power
The generator, which was discovered by Michael Faraday, is an ingenious device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Today’s popular camping generators use fuel powered engines to create this energy.
Camping
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about camping.
UHF Radio
If you are considering a trip into Australia’s vast outback, then a UHF Radio is an important communications device to have.
Caravan Interior
The interior of a caravan can provide a feeling of comfort and satisfaction as long as this space is utilised wisely. Manufacturers know this and that’s why they carefully design interior layouts with this in mind.
Recovery Gear Needs
The majority of situations that will stop a 4WD from moving are tyre punctures or getting yourself bogged in mud or sand - and these can happen in the simplest of situations, and for no real fault of the driver.
About Membership
Become a Member of ExplorOz and you’ll enjoy enhanced usage of the website with access to various tools in each section of the site that are unavailable to those with free registration.
Buying a Caravan
If you're considering taking your time exploring what Australia has to offer, then taking a caravan with you is great option. Travelling with a caravan will provide you with many of the creature comforts of your own home.
Boating
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about Boating. It is a new topic on ExplorOz and is growing as we release new articles.
Suspension
There is an unfortunate but realistic fact about purchasing a new 4WD - it won't come fitted with a suspension system designed to carry the kind of load you'll pack for a serious outback trip.
Accessories
This topic contains detailed articles on the complete list of vehicle accessories and equipment on today's market - includes basic essentials for weekend camping and must-have gear for setting up a 4WD for serious offroad use.
All Terrain (AT) Tyres
When you are looking for a compromise between off-road capability and good on-road manners, an All-Terrain (AT) tyre is the way to go.
Outback Survival
One thing you soon realise as you travel the more remote roads around and through Australia, is that if there is an emergency, you're more or less on your own.
Vehicle Choices
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about Vehicles, in particular how to choose the right vehicle for your trip.
Caravanning
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about caravans, motorhomes and RVs.
Camping Lights
In this article we list and describe the diverse range of lights available today and the options you might consider before embarking on your camping trip.
Travelling With Kids
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about Travelling with Kids.
Aftermarket Seats
Unfortunately, car manufacturers don't always expect us to actually take our vehicles offroad - so when it comes to fitting out your vehicle for a major trip you replace your suspension to improve the ride so ... why not replace your seats?
Fuel Prices
National fuel prices are shown in tables by state name.
Buying a Camper Trailer
For many campers the decision over the 'living quarters' poses the greatest quandary in the pre-trip planning.
Satellite Phone
With the evolution of satellite technology to deliver phone, television, radio, internet connectivity and many other services, travellers today are now capable of sending and receiving fast and reliable video, data and audio content regardless of
Winches
All travellers should be capable and equipped for winching so in this article we will discuss the various winching methods and equipment on the market.
HF Radio
HF Radios are a wise consideration if you intend to travel throughout remote regions of Australia.
Survival
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages discussing Outback Safety and Survival.
EPIRB
In this article, we discuss what EPIRBs are, the various types including PLBs and their role in Search and Rescue. Digital 406 MHz Epirb distress beacons save lives.
Fishing Spots in WA
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
WA Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
Long Range Fuel Tanks
A large number of outback treks involve long distances between fuel outlets. Jerry cans are dangerous, difficult to store and not as convenient as a long range fuel tank.
How to Tow a Trailer
Many people either tow trailers, campers, boats or caravans when they travel. When it comes to towing a trailer or camper on the trip, the traveller will now have much more storage space.
Camper Trailer Hire
With the range and quality of camper trailers available for hire, exploring those once hard to get to places is now a reality.
Driving Lights
If you plan to do any night driving in the outback then a strong reliable light source is a must.
Spare Parts and Tools
Knowing what to take on a trip must firstly begin with specific requirements to keep your vehicle running and how to conduct roadside service if the vehicle breaks down.
How to Plan a Trip
Getting ready for the road, be it a three week trip or a three year trip might seem something of a daunting task, whether you are a 4WDriver, tow a camper trailer or caravan or drive a luxurious motorhome.
Road Conditions
ExplorOz has access to main roads, shire council and national parks road condition reporting facilities and compiles this information into an easy to read report.
Vehicle Care
This article outlines options for prolonging the life and looks of your vehicle - especially one that is used for outback travelling where it is subjected to temperature extremes, excessive dust, dirt, mud and even salt water.
Recovery Gear
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages on Recovery Gear - the range of equipment and how to use it.
Trek Search
ExplorOz Trek Notes are detailed, factual reviews of destinations in Australia to which you can plan a self-drive camping trip.
Finding Wildflowers in WA
Many people stumble across wildflowers in their travels and then wonder how they can find more. In this detailed article we explain how and why the state of Western Australia is world renowned for being the Wildflower State.
Trek Notes
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages on the huge range of Destinations in Australia.
Communications
Communications equipment is essential for Australian outback travel. ExplorOz has a number of useful articles and references to help you understand all the issues.
Camp Cooking
Whether it's cooking a stir fry on a gas powered fry-pan or brewing up a hot stew in a camp oven over hot coals - this article will provide you with some great outback cooking tips.
Pop-Top Caravans
Take a look at the types of caravans being towed and you will soon notice how popular the pop-top caravan really is. These unique caravans with a height similar to the tow vehicle, gives the owner more flexibility and towing confidence.
Water Tank
Water storage is a critical issue for all four wheel drivers. Not only do you need to carry large amounts of fresh water, you also need 2 alternate supplies in case of contamination from one source.
Fifth Wheel Caravans
The concept for using a fifth wheel hitch for a road-based semi trailer has been around for nearly a century. The original idea arose to allow one person to couple a vehicle and trailer together.
Roof Racks, Luggage Trays & Boxes
In this article we look at the pros and cons of using the roof of your vehicle for storage when travelling; discuss what not to carry on your roof; provide some helpful packing hints and finally some useful buying tips.
Fishing Spots in QLD
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
Things To Do
From hiking to sightseeing, photography to looking for wildflowers, bush walking to mountain trekking, wild animal spotting to adventure seeking, there is always things to do when you put your mind to it.
Permits for New South Wales
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Permits for Northern Territory
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Permits for Queensland
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Permits for South Australia
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Permits for Tasmania
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Permits for Victoria
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Permits for Western Australia
The following information is provided to assist you in gaining the right permits to lawfully travel through or access specified regional and outback areas.
Roof Toppers
Thinking of putting a boat on top of the 4WD for your travels so you can do some fishing on your next trip?
Trailer Boats
Boating is a popular recreational activity that the whole family can get into. Trailer boats are fun, versatile, range in size and type, and furthermore can be towed.
Boat Registration & Licensing
When it comes to your trailer boat or for any boat that is engine powered - it does need to be registered. Also, if you wish to take the boat out into Australian waters then you will probably need to have a recreational boat license.
First Aid
First Aid is what you can do to assist an injured person at the scene using only what is available under the prevailing circumstances.
Offshore Fishing
Ever wondered why some offshore boat anglers catch more quality fish than others? The main key to success lies with knowledge, experience, and of course - plenty of practice!!
Bike Carriers
Using a recreational vehicle such as a 4WD is all about exploring places and enjoying yourself. Taking a push bike can provide you with the added advantage of exercise and exploring that little further in the nice open air.
Caravan Antenna
As all antenna designs are a compromise at some frequency, the trick is to work out what will give you the least compromise.
Caravan & Camper Battery Charging
Our modern lifestyle and need for electric and electronic products to accompany us on holidays and on our travels has brought us to have independent power in our caravans and campers when away from mains supply.
Buying a Motorhome
Motorhomes combine living accommodations and travel in the one package and the options are endless. The amount to learn can be quite overwhelming to the newbie.
Compact Caravans
Caravans come in many styles, shapes and sizes but have you ever wondered how compact a caravan can get?
Motorhomes
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about motorhomes.
Tours
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about Tours - focussing on tours of the outback including 4WD Tag-along tours, guided tours etc.
Care for the Environment
How much thought have you given to how you can minimise the impact you and your family make upon the environment when you head off on a trip? By following a few simple guidelines you can make a big difference in almost everything you do.
Accommodation
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages we have on Accommodation. We focus specifically on caravan parks, camp grounds, farm and station stays, homesteads and bush camps.
Taking Great Photos
Photography is a way some people record the places they've been, special moments in life, or is a way to express creativity.
Travelling with Toddlers 1 - 4 Years
This article follows in the same format as the other articles for the younger age-group and provides checklists and tips for travelling with kids from age 1- 4.
Travelling with Babies 0 - 12 Months
This article focuses on planning a long road trip with a baby between 0 - 12 months. It provides a detailed checklist of items and an interesting discussion of major issues you will need to take into consideration when planning and packing.
Turbos and Super Chargers
This article uses terminology that is explained in our Why Diesels are Different article and discusses the application of forced induction in regards to diesels.
Why Diesels are Different
The diesel engine, named after the German engineer Rudolf Diesel, is a type of internal combustion engine that is somewhat different to a petrol engine.
Technical
This topic contains detailed articles related to engine modifications. Also includes links to product manufacturers, retailers & service centres that advertise in the Directory; forum posts and classifeds ads from the Trader
Engine Performance
Having a vehicle that is performing well is important for reasons other than just speed and power. Improving reliability and efficiency will also result in better fuel consumption, hence reducing operating costs.
Intercoolers for Diesels
“Intercooled” - it’s a pretty “cool” looking decal to have along the side of your vehicle but what does it mean? And more importantly, what does it do?
Travel Etiquette
Etiquette is a word describing the norms that we as society should adhere to, in regards to consideration and respect. When travelling in the outback, it's very easy to perceive that the land is vast enough to do anything one wishes.
Off Road Caravans
This article discusses the features and advantages for off road caravans and in what circumstances you should consider the additional expense of a specialised off-road van.
Mud Terrain (MT) Tyres
Mud Terrain tyres are not just for hard-core 4WD enthusiats but are generally recommended for drivers who spend at least 80% of their time off-road.
4WDriving
This topic contains detailed articles related to buying, hiring, learning to drive and where to go with your four wheel drive vehicle in Australia.
4WD Driving Skills & Rules
4WD vehicles are designed to drive through obstacles that conventional (2WD) vehicles would not be able to overcome.
Oils and Lubes
Whether you drive an old or a new vehicle, oils and lubricants for your engine, diff and gearbox are critical factors affecting performance and also your running costs.
Highway Terrain (HT) Tyres
Highway Terrain tyres are designed to offer the best in road travel conditions with good ride comfort, low noise and freeway speed durability and road handling.
Driver Training
A lot of new four wheel drivers have instantly recognised the need for the acquisition of new skills in the use of their four wheel drive. These people need little convincing that some form of Driver Training will be a great asset.
Camp Tables
One of the most obvious camping equipment purchases we all make and hope will be our last – is the table. You could be excused for thinking that this purchase is rather straightforward but in reality, it is not that easy.
Prospecting for Gold
Gold has always generated excitement and anticipation amongst prospectors all over the world. Its whereabouts can be a mystery, yet anyone has the potential to find valueable gold nuggets.
Permits
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages regarding permits, access and restrictions and includes some important information a traveller should know before embarking through Australian lands and regions.
Outback Phenomena
In this article, we talk about two natural wonders that you may encounter on your travels. Willy Willies, also known as dust devils can spring up from nowhere and are an amazing sight to witness.
The RV Lifestyle
What is it that attracts so many people to the Recreational Vehicle (RV) lifestyle? In this article, we look the various modes of RV transport - from motorhomes, campervans, camper trailers and of course, caravans.
Access, Restrictions & Permits
If any decent road map of outback Australia is examined, numerous tracks will be marked as "Permit Required". Other tracks are marked as "Private Road" or "Aboriginal Business Road" and even "Restricted Access".
Staying in Touch when Travelling
With today's technology, it is no longer a valid notion to assume that you will have limited access to modern communication methods whilst you are away from home.
Vehicle Shower
Water is the single most precious commodity you need to carry for your trip. Although heavy, we need to carry it for drinking, cooking and washing.
Hiring a 4WD or Campervan
This article is intended to help the international visitor to Australia who is trying to work out the best way to choose a vehicle for a self-drive trip.
Cargo Drawers
This Article looks at gearing up for a 4WD camping trip and the need to find a sturdy, compact storage solution that won't rattle, break or allow loose items to fly around the cabin.
Buying a 4WD
This article focuses on the major considerations when choosing a 4WD vehicle for the purpose of travelling and camping.
What to Take
In this article, we discuss how to work out what you need to take on your trip. Includes a checklist of items for bush camping in remote areas and also a check list of personal items to suit any trip.
Making Your Itinerary
Before you embark upon the logistics of planning for your trip (vehicle setup, camping gear) it is essential that you have made some sort of an itinerary.
Cooking
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages about Cooking, focussing on camp cooking.
Fish Species
Want to find out about fish, then the ExplorOz fish species database is the best place to start. Interactive and updatable information about many of Australia's fish.
Tag Along Tours
If you have ever wondered what happens on a Tag Along Tour, then this article has all the answers. There are tons of options, and surprisingly, they are not all geared towards the first time 4WD traveller.
Types of Tours
This article lists the different sorts of 4WD Tours on offer by commercial operators in Australia and defines the differences between each.
Beach Fishing
Put on your wet weather overalls, berley up the water and cast a 70 plus metre line to get past the breakers - this is the typical lifestyle of the dedicated beach angler.
Fishing Spots in NSW & ACT
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
Fishing Spots in NT
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
Fishing Spots in SA
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
Fishing Spots in TAS
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
Fishing Spots in VIC
Each state and territory in Australia has its own premier fishing spots and predominant fish species. Some locations may reveal abundant fish stocks of a select species whilst others may offer a more diverse range of species.
Inland Fishing
Australia is the world’s driest inhabited continent with 70% receiving between 100 and 350mm of rainfall annually. So with such little rainfall, you may wonder whether Australia has a good freshwater fishery.
NSW Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
NT Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
QLD Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
SA Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
TAS Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
VIC Fishing Rules
Fishing in Australian salt and fresh waters is governed by state rules and regulations and must be strictly followed as these laws are in place to ensure fisheries are ecologically sustainable.
Food & Water
One of the most important considerations when planning an outback trip is the selection of foods to take and the amount needed to keep everyone healthy and happy.
Visit Australia
This page gives you access to all the relevant site pages for the foreign traveller coming to Australia.
PlotSwap
PlotSwap is an interactive area of the ExplorOz website where people who use mapping software can share plot files.
Live Weather
The ExplorOz Live Weather system shows Live Rain Radars, Satellite images and 7 days forecasts for hundreds of towns and cities around Australia.
Members Rewards
This page of specials and discounts is available only to ExplorOz Members. These discounts are from our advertisers so please take advantage of these great deals right around Australia.
Members List
Use this page to view a state based members list or find a specific member.
Australia
Select a State to access a list of Regions or go direct to a Region to access detailed destination information consisting of Trek Notes, up-to-date road condition reports, fuel prices, downloadable digital iMapPlot maps and plot file data and muc
Members FileSwap
This area is designed to allow ExplorOz members to exchange files and utilities.
Tyre Size Calculator
Use this page to work out the radius, circumference and diameter of any size tyre. You can also run comparisons between different tyres and work out the differences in size and odometer corrections.
Member Money
Items you purchase in the ExplorOz Online Shop can accrue Member Money at 5% of the product total. Member Money can then be used on subsequent orders as cash discounts.
Trader - Miscellaneous
Browse, buy or sell general items that are not related to vehicles or touring. Open to all industries and products.
How to Submit a Trek Note
Trek Notes are a vital part of ExplorOz where people can read and even print driving notes to destinations within Australia.
Holiday Dates
You may want to plan your holiday to avoid school holidays or to coincide with the school break. Many places are very popular during school holidays, so plan ahead or plan your trip for when the kids are back at school.
Trader - Vehicles
Browse, buy or sell 4WD and 2WD. For motorhomes, or motorbikes, please use other categories.
Trader - Camping Gear
Browse, buy, or sell camping gear - including tents, swags, cooking equipment etc. Note that fridges, iceboxes and eskies have their own category.
Trader - Fishing Gear
Browse, buy or sell fishing gear - rods, reels, etc. Note that boats are found in a separate category.
Trader - Radios & GPS
Browse, buy or sell communications and navigation equipment - includes uhf, hf, epirb, GPS, and satellite navigation systems.
Use another category for Mobile and Satellite Phones.
Trader - Accessories
Browse, buy or sell vehicle accessory products (see other categories for communications and navigation equipment).
For other items not specific to the 4WD, Camping, Caravanning sector, please refer to the Miscellaneous category.
Trader - Boats
Browse, buy or sell power boats, sail boats and personal watercraft.
Directory - Accessories & Parts
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers & retailers of vehicle accessories & parts Australia-wide.
Directory - Accommodation
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for station stays, caravan parks, and other regional accommodation options Australia-wide.
Directory - Attractions
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for theme parks, galleries, museums, and commercial tourist attractions Australia-wide.
Directory - Campers & Trailers
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers, retailers and places to hire camper trailers and general purpose trailers Australia-wide.
Directory - Camping Equipment
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers, retailers and places to hire camping equipment.
Directory - Caravans & Motorhomes
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers, retailers and hire outlets for all models of caravans, fifth wheelers, campervans, motorhomes, and RVs.
Directory - Clubs
This is a special directory containing contact details and links for bondafide clubs in the 4WD, Caravan, Motorhome/RV and Camping industry Australia-wide.
Directory - Communications
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers, retailers and places to hire outback communications equipment Australia-wide.
Directory - Driver Training
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for companies that offer Driver Training courses, including 4WD and Towing education Australia-wide.
Directory - References
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for publishers that provide online services, books or map products.
Directory - Servicing
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers, retailers and service outlets specifically for Touring & 4WD vehicles.
Directory - Tours
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for tour operators - including private charter by 4WD, Tag Alongs, Safaris and Bus Tours.
Directory - Tyres & Rims
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for manufacturers & retailers of vehicle tyres, and rims, especially those designed for 4WDs, and trailers.
Directory - Vehicles
This is an advertiser’s directory containing contact details and links for vehicle manufacturers, vehicle dealerships, and car-finding services Australia-wide.
4WD Treks
ExplorOz Trek Notes are detailed, factual reviews of destinations in Australia to which you can plan a self-drive camping trip.
Camper & Trailer Treks
ExplorOz Trek Notes are detailed, factual reviews of destinations in Australia to which you can plan a self-drive camping trip.
Caravan Treks
ExplorOz Trek Notes are detailed, factual reviews of destinations in Australia to which you can plan a self-drive camping trip.
Motorhome Treks
ExplorOz Trek Notes are detailed, factual reviews of destinations in Australia to which you can plan a self-drive camping trip.
Trip Journal Index
The ExplorOz Team started writing trip journals in 1998 and have recorded every day of their travels right up to today.
UHF Repeaters Index
We have provided a list of repeaters as a guide showing you the location and frequency of UHF repeaters across Australia. Knowing the location and frequency of UHF repeaters can be useful however not necessary for transmission.
