From the Great Australian Bight to the Great Victoria Desert, the Nullarbor occupies over 200,000 square kilometres. Stretching over 1000 kilometres from east to west, it is a vast, flat, arid landscape that has inspired generations of Australian travellers, from hopeful goldminers to carefree backpackers, to make the trek across its expanse. This vastly treeless desert is home to the world’s longest straight road, the Eyre Highway, the central vein of the region and the only way you can get across the Nullarbor Plain by land. Taking you from the mountainous cliff faces of the Southern Ocean to the infinite, star-filled skies of the open plains, the Eyre Highway run should be on the bucket list of every Australian traveller. So, how do you prepare for such a trip?
Get The Right Set of Wheels
Hey! We’re easyauto123! We’re obviously going to start here, right? It’s going to come as no surprise that if you’re crossing a giant, arid desert, a scooter might not be your best choice of transport. For the Eyre Highway run, you need yourself a good reliable car. A 4WD like the Toyota Landcruiser or Nissan Patrol are durable and reliable options that will get you there safely. If you’re looking for a little more comfort, maybe consider a Land Rover Discovery or even a Toyota HiAce, decked out in camper style, to help you get some quality shut eye on the way. Of course, regardless of your vehicle, always ensure it is in tip-top condition for your drive. Check your oil levels, your tyres, brakes and lights. Be vigilant - you don’t want to break down in the middle of a desert.
Be Prepared
Petrol stations are few and far between across the Nullarbor so it’s important to make sure you have a full tank and a strategy in place for where you’re getting your next one. It’s also very wise to make sure you’re carrying additional fuel. Fill up some jerry cans and always be ready for plan B. In addition to that, make sure you have plenty of essential supplies, in general. You will need lots of water, for you and your vehicle. Make sure you have plenty of food, get yourself a quality first aid kit and, of course, be sure to have a spare tyre and the tools to change it. It’s also important to keep in mind that mobile service isn’t always the best along the Eyre Highway. Get yourself a satellite phone and a GPS emergency beacon.
Be Ready for Mother Nature
Weather conditions across the Nullarbor change rapidly. One minute it’s dry, the next, it could be flooding. Pay attention to weather forecasts and change your travel plans accordingly. Also, be on the lookout for wildlife, particularly during dawn and dusk. Camels, wombats, kangaroos and emus are often seen along the highway and you need to be vigilant in watching out for them.
Have a Plan
Once you’ve got your car, your supplies and a good understanding of the weather and wildlife conditions sorted, now you need to plan your route. Not so hard - it’s just a straight line, right? Not quite. You need to familiarise yourself with landmarks and locations. Make sure you know how far away the next petrol station is and where rest areas and accommodation are located. Taking regular breaks and stretching your legs is an essential part of crossing the Nullarbor. Make sure you plan well and, of course, take some time to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Alright! That’s a few tips to get you going! While you start preparing, take a moment to have a look at some vehicle options for your trip across the Nullarbor.