If you’re planning an epic outback adventure in Western Australia or the Northern Territory, you will inevitably meet one of Australia’s true giants: the road train. These beasts are the kings of the highway, hauling up to four trailers and stretching over 50 metres long. Knowing how to safely and effectively share the bitumen with them is absolutely essential for your safety and a smooth trip.
Before you even get on the road, ensure you have the right vehicle for the job. Red Dirt Rentals provides the sturdy 4WD rentals and powerful 4×4 hire vehicles you need for challenging terrain and safe overtaking manoeuvres.
During your holiday, and whilst renting a 4WD vehicle from us, you need to be prepared for how to handle these massive trucks.
Here are five things every traveller should know before hitting the outback and tackling roads that have road trains on them:
1. Road Trains are Massive – Give Them Respect
Imagine a semi-truck on steroids. Road trains can weigh over 100 tonnes and take a kilometre or more to stop. So if you think you can cut in front of one with your 4WD rental vehicle and slam the brakes—don’t. Treat them like a moving freight train because, well, that’s basically what they are. The drivers are professionals, but physics is physics.
2. Overtaking a Road Train is an Art Form
Overtaking a road train isn’t like passing a hatchback in the suburbs. You’ll need a long, straight stretch of road—think several hundred metres of clear visibility. Before you pull out, make sure:
- You can see the entire length of the road train.
- There’s no oncoming traffic for miles.
- You’ve dropped back far enough in your 4×4 hire to get a good run-up.
When you go, commit. Don’t hesitate halfway through. And whatever you do, don’t cut back in too soon—wait until you can see both headlights of the truck in your rearview mirror. Otherwise, you might end up as a hood ornament.
3. Use the UHF Radio – Channel 40 is Your Friend
Here’s a pro tip: most road train drivers monitor UHF Channel 40. If you’ve hired a Red Dirt Rentals 4WD, it will have a UHF radio. Use it! A quick call like:
“G’day mate, this is the white Land Cruiser behind you. Can I get past when you’re ready?” The driver will often let you know when it’s safe and might even slow down a touch. It’s like having a 2nd pair of eyes.
Once you are well past and have moved back onto the left-hand side of the road, don’t forget to acknowledge the road train driver with a “Thanks for that, Mate! Have a good day.” You usually get a “No worries, Mate” back from the driver!
4. Expect a Breeze – Or a Hurricane
When a road train blasts past you in the opposite direction, hang onto the wheel. The wind turbulence can feel like a mini cyclone. Slow down a little in your 4WD rental vehicle, keep both hands on the wheel, and don’t panic. It’s all part of the outback experience—free massage included.
5. Patience Is a Virtue (and a Lifesaver)
You’re on holiday, in an off-road vehicle, not in a Formula 1 race. If the conditions aren’t right to overtake, don’t risk it. Pull over, stretch your legs, and take a photo of that endless horizon. The outback isn’t going anywhere, and neither should you—at least not into oncoming traffic.
Stay Safe on Your Outback Adventure
Road trains are the lifeblood of the outback, hauling everything from cattle to fuel across thousands of kilometres. Treat them—and their drivers—with respect, and your journey will be safer and a lot less stressful. Remember: in the outback, size matters, and road trains win every time.
When renting a 4WD vehicle for your remote adventure, you are responsible for not only your safety but also your passengers/family and other road users. Take your time, be courteous and make sure to hire a 4WD vehicle that is fully equipped for the long haul.
