Trip planning appears to be of interest to a lot of people on this site. Particularly as we head into the cooler months.
Much of this has been discussed many times over; however it’s timely to talk about other matters not often mentioned.
Travel with two sets of keys. In the above mentioned country, tie a ribbon of contrasting colour to the primary keys. If dropped, this makes them far easier to find in the sand.
Be careful where you hide the second set of keys. Modern keys with Chips don't like water emersion.
Carry half a dozen heavy duty large plastic bags. In an emergency, the bags can be placed over foliage to capture water. Depending on conditions, up to two litres a day can be delivered.
Take good quality maps and a compass (such as SILVA or other
well known brands). Don’t rely on GPS.
Your
First Aid should include an eye dilution kit (I’ve been on quite a few trips where companions have suffered considerable discomfort with eye pollution).
If you’re planning a trip into remote areas, don’t rely on the leader. Go and do a
First Aid Course. Very informative and a lot of laughs!
Well before you go (12-24 months), do some research and attempt to build a relationship with the Station Owners in the area you’re proposing to visit. The majority of owners and managers are good blokes (although they may come up a bit short on the first phone call).
Some don’t have a particularly good attitude, but others do. Be mindful their Mustering season starts around April and doesn’t finish until October.
If you are granted permission to visit a Station. Be respectful:
Prior to arriving, give them a ring and ask if they need any provisions or shopping done on their behalf.
Take your hat off when entering the kitchen.
Offer unpaid work doing your stay (even if it’s only for a couple of days).
Be very security conscious with valuables, particularly when staying in some remote towns. There is an emerging problem of theft and out of control behavior.
Hope this helps and have a good trip.
Regards
Kim