What to Consider When Going on a 4WD Trip in WA
When you think of Western Australia, you think of vast, incredible landscapes; incredible sunsets on isolated beaches and pristine coastlines; and rugged outback adventures. A 4WD trip is undoubtedly the best way to experience all of this. However, it is common for travellers to WA to make booking mistakes. Careful planning and consideration are important to ensure that your WA 4WD adventure is an unforgettable trip for the right reasons.
We have compiled a list of things you should keep in mind if you are planning a WA road trip.
Secure Your Wheels Early
A common mistake travellers make when coming to Australia is booking their flights before booking their 4WD hire. There is a limited number of 4WD rental vehicles available in WA and even fewer available in regional locations such as Darwin and Broome, particularly during peak seasons. To avoid disappointment, it is always recommended to hire a 4WD vehicle prior to booking your flights.
Companies like Red Dirt 4WD Rentals understand that your trip needs flexibility. That is why we offer flexibility with all of our 4WD hire and 4WD camper hire bookings, with no booking change fee as long as your changes are more than 90 days out from your trip. This flexibility allows you to make the important decision of guaranteeing your 4WD hire prior to booking flights.
Understand the Terrain
WA and the Northern Territory boast over 270,000 km of unsealed dirt roads where a 2WD vehicle will not be suitable. These roads aren’t well-maintained and are often degraded by other vehicles and trucks, as well as the weather. If there is dirt, then it is recommended that a 4WD vehicle that is specifically built for the outback’s rough off-road conditions be hired.
All Red Dirt 4WD Rental vehicles are equipped and built for the harsh outback conditions.
Ensure the Vehicle is Comfortable and Spacious
You wouldn’t cross seas in a dinghy, so don’t cross regional WA in an unsuitable car. You should consider comfortable and spacious options for long trips, allowing for easier and safer travel. Overcrowded vehicles also mean that with luggage and camping gear involved, there might not be room to spread out. Because a 4WD hire brochure shows “sleeps 4-5” doesn’t mean it will be a comfortable experience and you don’t realise this until you pick it up.
Red Dirt Rentals even offers 4WD Hire with Rooftop Tent options giving you adequate sleeping space for 2 people, meaning less space will be taken up inside the vehicle for camping equipment should you try to squeeze in 4 people. Keep it simple and comfortable.
WA is Large, With Large Distances Between Attractions
Western Australia is a massive area that can take weeks to traverse, with popular attractions well spread out. In fact WA covers an area larger than many European countries, with an area that is about ¼ of the size of the whole of Europe. We recommend that you pace your trip and resist the urge to cram in all your highlights into a short trip.
It is best to pace your trip and travel no more than 400 km per day, spending multiple nights in one place and exploring nearby attractions. Don’t try to cram every single WA attraction into 2 weeks.
Access to Major WA Treasures
Most of WA’s most breathtaking attractions (outside of the metro area) are in locations that can’t be accessed without a 4WD vehicle. National Parks, Hiking, Scenery, the Best Beaches and River Camping Spots are all locations that you will need a vehicle capable of going off-road to access. Don’t risk disappointment and hire a 4WD to enhance your road trip experience.
Help When Things Go Wrong
Even with the best planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise and affect your trip. In these instances, being unfamiliar with your vehicle and equipment could quickly turn a minor issue into a major one.
Red Dirt Rentals spends a 1hr+ period demonstrating your vehicle and equipment and are able to assist you should something happen on your trip.
Book Now, Avoid Disappointment
A 4WD trip through Western Australia promises to be the road trip of a lifetime. Now you know how to plan your trip and the importance of booking a 4WD; it is now time to book your trip. Avoid disappointment and contact the team at Red Dirt Rentals, or get a quote to book your 4WD hire. So start your planning, secure your 4WD rental, and get ready to explore the beauty of WA!
