Sandy Blight Junction Road
The Sandy Blight Junction Road is one of those great four wheel drive trips that one visit will not be enough to experience the true beauty of this remote part of Outback Australia.
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Simpson Desert
The Simpson Desert can be crossed via the French Line, WAA line or Rig Road. This trek provides a route using a combination of all 3 routes.
Inverters
This article discusses how Inverters work and why they are so desirable to many travellers. It explains the difference between modifed sine wave inverters and pure sinewave inverters; contains a table showing the inverter requirement for a range
Camps & Accom
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
EOTrackMe
EOTrackMe is an online tracking applications and uses your mobile phone, gps, web browser and many different tracking devices to update your position online in realtime on the iMapPlot mapping system.
Using Power Leads: Facts & Regulations
This article both confirms and clarifies the law and common practise in regards to using power leads to connect your electrical equipment to a mains power source. Specifically,
Business Members
Each ExplorOz Business Member has their own Profile Page. Use this list to find Members and access their profiles.
ExplorOz Newsletter - 289
23rd May 2013. David's Bday Shop Sale; Updated Article Section; Power Leads Safety Article; EOTrackMe Daily Tracking; Upload to Places on Mobile; New Members Section; New Products and Special Offers in the ExplorOz Shop & Latest Super Specials
Great Central Road
Part of the "Outback Way", the Great Central Road is the main thoroughfare through Central Australia and links WA to NT. It is widely used by buses, trucks, 4WD and occasionally 2WD vehicles.
Travelling with Kids 5 - 12 Years
Older kids don't have the same special planning needs as for babies and young toddlers however they are easily bored. A long car trip is just about going to drive them bonkas unless you get smart and give special consideration to how to make the
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,
On the Road Driving
The articles in this section cover 4WD Driving Skills & Rules, Driver Fatigue, Driver Fatigue, Driver Training & P-Bays and Rest Areas
Oodnadatta Track
If you’re a history buff you’re going to go nuts crossing the Oodnadatta Track. The track follows the orignal Ghan line from Marla to Oodnadatta and then on to Marree. There's stacks of ruins, mound springs,
Cape York
Experience the thrill of standing at the most northern tip of Australia, visit gorges & waterfalls and enjoy the challenge of a 4WD adventure just to get there.
UHF Radio
If you are considering a trip into Australia’s vast outback, then a UHF Radio is an important communications device to have. Besides the entertainment value, such as chatting with other travellers,
Vehicles Engine Performance for WA
The articles in this section cover Understanding Engine Conversions, Turbos and Super Chargers, Intercoolers for Diesels, Diesel Fuel Injection Systems & Why Diesels are Different
Solar Power
This article covers every aspect of solar and its design and installation in RVs (camper trailers, caravans and motor homes). It shows how much power solar panels really produce,
Birdsville Track
The Birdsville Track runs south from Birdsville to Maree and passes through the Sturt Stony Desert. It is an extremely remote region but is strikingly beautiful in its harshness.
Caravans & Camper Trailers Buyers Guide
The articles in this section cover Buying a Camper Trailer, Caravan Interior, Compact Caravans, Fifth Wheel Caravans, Off Road Caravans, Pop-Top Caravans & Where to Start
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.
Trailer Wiring Diagrams
This is a basic reference article about trailer and caravan wiring; the plugs and sockets that are commonly in use in Australia, and the pin colour codes that are designed to coordinate proper connections, according to Australian Standards.
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. The compromises will be the extended vehicle length,
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.
Where to Start
This non-biased article provides a practical outline of the major features to consider when contemplating buying a caravan (new or used) and should help you settle upon your main requirements before you start doing the leg work.
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.
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.
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.
Compact Caravans
Caravans come in many styles, shapes and sizes but have you ever wondered how compact a caravan can get? The small caravan market is intended for those wanting a caravan that’s light,
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.
Buying a Camper Trailer
For many campers the decision over the 'living quarters' poses the greatest quandary in the pre-trip planning. Other than a wide range of trailers, which can be purchased 'off the shelf' or custom-made to your specifications,
TV Antenna
As all antenna designs are a compromise at some frequency, the trick is to work out what will give you the least compromise. To help get a broader understanding and hopefully clear up this confusion,
On the Road Camping
The articles in this section cover Camp Cooking, Care for the Environment, Free Camping, Portable Toilets and Dump Points & Travel Etiquette
Portable Toilets and Dump Points
Portable toilets are becoming increasingly popular for people who don't want to give up on facilities while travelling. This article details the various portable camping toilets available in the market today as well as advice on chemicals to use
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.
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.
Driver Fatigue
This article provides the facts on why driver fatigue causes accidents, tips for how you can recognise the signs of driver fatigue, and advice for how to use power-naps to help reduce driver fatigue.
P-Bays and Rest Areas
Driving on Australia's lonely long roads, it is important to take frequent stops to avoid driver fatigue. Fortunately, most major roads have a system of P-bays but not all rest areas offer the same services,
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.
Free Camping
This is probably the hottest topic in the camping industry right now. Seems everyone has an opinion but not everyone has all the facts - nor the answers. In this article,
Driver Fatigue
Some drivers put unrealistic expectations on the daily distances they plan to travel, however this can lead to driving tired and putting yourself and others on the road at great risk.
4WD Driving Skills & Rules
4WD vehicles are designed to drive through obstacles that conventional (2WD) vehicles would not be able to overcome. Many places in the Australian bush are not negotiable without a 4WD however simply owning such a vehicle does not mean that you
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.
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.
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.
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. Air is compressed first and at around 800°C receives an atomised injection of diesel fuel
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. It's all about increasing the power and efficiency of internal combustion engines
Vehicles Setting up a 4WD
The articles in this section cover Bull Bars, Rails & Steps, Buying a 4WD, Long Range Fuel Tanks, Snorkel, Suspension, Water Tank & Winches
Understanding Engine Conversions
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. In this article,
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? In this technical article,
Diesel Fuel Injection Systems
For drivers of petrol/gasoline-engined vehicles, fuel injection is a relatively new innovation. Only in the last decade or so has fuel injection become the norm and its predecessor, the humble carburettor,
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.
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.
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. Written in conjunction with one of Australia's most noted experts in winch gear,
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.
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.
Bull Bars, Rails & Steps
A vehicle's bull bar, sides steps and rails are known as its "bar work". Some critics might suggest that bar work is not necessary but for people actually using their vehicles for offroad touring,
Buying a 4WD
This article focuses on the major considerations when choosing a 4WD vehicle for the purpose of travelling and camping. We give some brief definations of the various terms used to categorise 4WDs,
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. There is a perception that buying a vehicle and selling it afterwards is the most ideal and
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. There are different motorhome class types, motorhome terminologies and abbreviations,
Vehicle Reversing Camera
"Rear view" or "reversing cameras" can be added as aftermarket additions to vehicles that do not come with factory-fitted systems. In this article, we outline what parts you need to put your own rear view camera system together.
HF Radio
HF Radios are a wise consideration if you intend to travel throughout remote regions of Australia. In this article we discuss the usefulness of HF radio in practical situations and explain the many features and services available to enhance your
Outback Communication Requirements Explained
Communications equipment is especially handy whilst travelling and often essential. It is considered necessary that each vehicle venturing into the outback should be equipped with a UHF radio combined with one emergency long-distance voice
Communications
The articles in this section cover Outback Communications, Satellite Phones & Devices & Staying in Touch
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,
Staying in Touch when Travelling
With today's technology, staying in touch with our friends and family when travelling is relatively easy. Using the internet, sending email, mobile phones, satellite devices,
Map Viewing Software
Mapping Software is used by several different types of Navigation Devices, including Laptops/Netbooks, Smartphones, Tablets, PDAs and all in one GPS Navigators (in off road mode).
Regional & Off Road Navigation
4WD, Off Road & Touring Navigation presents many unique challenges to travellers, particularly when it comes to finding suitable navigational tools. Standard SatNav's often lack the coverage mapping or don't have the level of detail required to
Navigation Using Maps
The articles in this section cover Map Viewing Software & Regional & Off Road Navigation
Navigation Mapping
The articles in this section cover Map Viewing Software & Regional & Off Road Navigation
Navigation Devices
The articles in this section cover GPS Units, Navigators & SatNav, Laptops & Netbooks & Smartphones & Tablets
Navigation
The articles in this section cover Devices & Mapping
GPS Units, Navigators & SatNav
In this article we look at ready to go navigation devices and satnav units. You'll learn how different devices work, their limitations and advantages plus we include a section on hybrid navigators,
Laptops & Netbooks
This article will explain what you'll need in order to use your laptop as a navigation device. We discuss how the different components work together, advantages & disadvantages of this kind of navigation set-up, ease of use,
Smartphones & Tablets
Smartphones and Tablets are relatively new additions to the navigational market, but their widespread ownership sees them swiftly taking over as a device of choice for Street Navigation. They are also becoming very popular for 4WD,
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.
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.
The Tanami Track
The Tanami Track is essentially a great short-cut linking the Red Centre to the Kimberley. Although once a notorious 4WD track, it is now a graded dirt highway.
Membership
The articles in this section cover Business, Member List, Personal & Trips & Gatherings
Cooloola Coast
The Cooloola Coast, which lies within the Great Sandy National Park, has it all - high sand dunes, vibrant coloured sand cliffs, sweeping beaches, rich coastal vegetation and much more.
Painted Desert
The Painted Desert has to be the highlight of the South Australian Desert experience. This trek from Coober Pedy takes as little as one day, but if you are a photographer or painter, you may choose to spend an entire week in the Painted Desert.
Googs Track
A most adventurous short-cut for those travelling from the west to Coober Pedy & the Alice. Excellent views and plenty of wildlife, featuring memorials dedicated to Goog and Dinger, Goog’s Lake and Mount Finke.
Vic High Country
This is a great trek through the Victorian High Country where you'll experience some of our most spectacular mountain areas. See high country huts, spectacular views and participate in challenging four-wheel driving.
Anne Beadell Highway
An inland alternative to travelling the Nullarbor, the Anne Beadell trek offers remoteness, isolation and unique vegetation and wildlife.
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.
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Shop
Members enjoy 5% discount on all products. Overnight courier available. Free delivery to qualifying customers.
Maralinga Range Tour
See first hand an area that for decades has been out of bounds to all but Government Officials and learn about Australia's Nuclear past.
Plenty Highway
Part of the "Outback Way", the Plenty Highway is the most direct route from central Queensland across to Alice Springs in central Australia. It is a wide stretch of very red sandy soil that when wet can be impassible - 4WD only.
Camps & Accom in NSW
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
Places
Places contains Australia's largest database of waypoints featuring points of interest to suit the recreational traveller.
Canning Stock Route
The Canning Stock Route is a long-distance remote stretch of track through the Gibson and Great Sandy Deserts. No longer in use as a stock route this is now a vehicular track allowing access to the wells constructed as stock watering holes.
Innamincka Memorials and Markers
This trek which lies purely in the Innamincka Regional Reserve follows the memorials, markers and waterholes along Cooper Creek and includes the 15 Mile Track, and Nappa Merrie Road.
Cooloola Way
Cooloola Way is an unsealed road that lies between Kin Kin-Wolvi Road and Rainbow Beach Road. This inland track parallels the Cooloola Coast, offering 4WDrivers another route to take when heading north from Noosa to Fraser Island.
Simpson Desert French Line
The French Line is the most direct route across the desert and traverses directly across the tops of over 1200 red sand dunes, with Big Red being the major challenge.
Camps & Accom in QLD
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
Camps & Accom in Gold Coast
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
Camps & Accom in Kakadu Arnhem
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
Camps & Accom in Geelong
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
ExplorOz Newsletter - 288
10th May 2013. Trek Note Videos; Survey Results & ARB Air Compressor Winner Announced; New Article on Free Camping; New Member Cards; New Business Members Welcome; Stuart Hwy & WPA Road Closures; New ExplorOz Shop Products and Special Offers;
Strzelecki Track
The Stzrelecki Track is strictly the route from Innamincka to Lyndhurst, however our trek note is for travellers going between Innamincka and Arkaroola Village in the heart of the Flinders Ranges.
Innovative Ideas & Gear for Camping
There is no end to the range of camping equipment you will see available in camping stores, but it's not all necessary. In this article we'll highlight a few nifty items that are worth taking and discuss some practical tips for all types of
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.
Travelling with Dogs
This article highlights the precautions and planning considerations that go into a making a holiday away with your dog comfortable and safe - for them, your family, and other people you might encounter.
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.
Yengo National Park
Situated just 100kms from Sydney, this is a great day or weekend trek. The majority of the tracks in Yengo National Park are 4WD only, so lock in your hubs and discover the great views and scenery.
Buying a Tent
This article covers essential considerations for buying a tent such as types of tents, fabric, waterproofing, pests and other practical considerations to ensure you get the right tent for your next trip.
Camps & Accom in Snowy Mountains
This section includes all places of type: Commercial Camping Area, Bush & Free Camps, Caravan & Tourist Parks, Motels, Hotel & Resorts
Mungo National Park
Mungo NP holds the most ancient and culturally significant artefacts in all of Australia. This area in far southwest NSW has become very popular since the remains of Mungo Lady and Mungo Man was discovered.
Holland Track
From Broome Hill to Coolgardie, the Holland Track was originally built in the gold rush days as a shortcut to the Goldfields. Hardly ever visited for nearly 100 years, it was re-cut as a 4WD track in 1992 and is a popular trip with locals.
Toolinna Cove
This trek takes you from Balladonia Road House, across the vast almost treeless grasslands of the Nullarbor, then through the thickly wooded areas to Toolinna Cove at the Baxter Cliffs. On the way you will visit Five Ways Well,
Boggy Hole
Finke Gorge is located within the Finke Gorge NP south of the West MacDonnell Ranges in the Alice Springs region. The most popular attraction is Boggy Hole, a permanent billabong of the Finke River.
Embed Tracking on Your Site
Subscribers to EOTrackMe can view and share their tracking via their Member Profile page on ExplorOz and can also choose to have the tracking map appear on their own websites. Find out more on this page.
Maralinga via Colona
Maralinga is set to become one of Australia's top outback travel destinations where you will see first hand an area that was classified as one on Australia's most secretive places for decades. This will be the major route to Maralinga.
Events
The ExplorOz events calendar is designed to hold information about events and activities that are occurring in the 4WD, Camping & Caravanning industries.
All Shop Items
This page is the new and updated sinigle item output view for the shop system. You cannot navigate directly to this page.
