PREPARATION
These are our TOP TIPS for driving in Outback Australia and staying safe!
There is 500KM OF DIRT ROAD between Marree & Birdsville. The road is not suitable for low clearance vehicles, and travel in small sedan type vehicles should be avoided.
There is 250KM OF DIRT ROAD between Windorah and Birdsville. We recommend low clearance vehicles avoid this road wherever possible.
There is 15KM OF DIRT ROAD between Bedourie and Birdsville. When in good condition, this road can be suitable for lower clearance vehicles if speed is significantly reduced.
Google Maps does not accurately reflect driving time and road surfaces. Take the time to research the roads you are travelling on.
Check road conditions before departure or call the local police station in small towns if not available online.
Let someone know your intended route, departure time and expected arrival time and do not deviate from this route.
Be patient when driving on remote roads and enjoy the scenery. Driving fast significantly increases the chances of tyre punctures and accidents, and can cause rocks to fly into oncoming windscreens when passing vehicles. Do not overtake in dusty conditions when the way forward is not clear. We want everyone to arrive safely.
There is NO PHONE SERVICE between towns/pubs, so please see point above and consider carrying a satellite phone.
Always travel with sufficient water and food. Plan on at least 5L pp/day, and have enough for an additional couple of days in case of breakdown.
If you experience problems please STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE as it is much easier to find than a person. If you decide to walk and subsequently seek shade under a tree, you will be almost impossible to find.
We recommend taking out the TOP LEVEL OF ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE directly with RACQ or similar. Do not rely on the "free" roadside assistance that comes with new cars, credit cards etc.
Driving on closed roads will result in fines or penalties and void any insurance should you need retrieving or have an accident.
Tyres for smaller sedan or luxury type vehicles can be difficult to source. Ensure you have at least one FULL SIZE spare
tyre, or preferably two, and know how to fit it (do not rely on the space saver that comes with a lot of small vehicles).
If towing a caravan or trailer, take steps to protect underneath from rock damage.
Be sure to book accommodation IN ADVANCE of arriving in small towns.
LPG and electric charging stations are not available for vehicles in Birdsville.
Be sure to drop into the Birdsville Roadhouse and say hi when you arrive.
In the spirit of Reconciliation, we acknowledge the Wangkangurru Yarluyandi people, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land upon which Birdsville was built.
We pay our respects to their Elders; past, present and emerging, and encourage the continuation of their cultural, spiritual and educational practices.