Are you planning a sensational trip to Australia? Well here are a few useful tips to ensure your trip is not only fun, but safe too! Australia is known for have some of the most spectacular outdoor activities around, but some of the most dangerous around as well. Make sure you’re well informed before deciding to head out to the land down under.
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Watch out for sharks and crocodiles
While the beaches surrounding the states of Victoria (Melbourne), New South Wales (Sydney) and Queensland (Brisbane) have a relatively low rate of shark attacks, the higher up north you travel the more cautious you have to be. It’s important to stay within the red and yellow flags at beaches, as there will be a trained lifeguard on duty, as well as shark netting surrounding the beach.
In most areas within the north of Australia, the beaches are closed to swimming due to the large amount of crocodiles and sharks that call the waters home. Crocodiles are also found in rivers and mangroves. So if you’re up north in areas near water, make sure you are well informed about the area.
Stay clear of poisonous animals
Australia is home to some of the most dangerous spiders and snakes in the world. In fact, it has the top 10 most venomous snakes, which include the Inland Taipan, Eastern Brown snake and Tiger snake. These are just a few of the slippery serpents you should stay clear of!
If you are bitten by any of the above make sure you seek immediate medical assistance, as these bites can be deadly. However, don’t panic as fatal bites are rare since the introduction of anti-venoms in the eighties.
Keep up-to-date with bushfire warnings
This is an extremely important tip because the last holiday memory you want is one involving a bushfire! Australia is prone to bushfires, especially in the spring/summer months. So before you leave make sure you check the media outlets (internet, TV or radio) for any news concerning bushfires (total fire bans, road closures). And make sure that you are responsible when lighting fires while camping.
Remote areas of Australia
When driving through remote areas of Australia it’s all about preparation, preparation, preparation. Make sure you have planned out your route carefully, that you have an up-to-date map and your phone provider has good coverage as some of the areas have not poor reception. And of course, inform a third party of your trip.
It’s important to bring plenty of water, as it can get quite hot and humid inland, as well as snacks and a generous supply of food. You should also have two spare tires, as you never know if a kangaroo will jump in front of your car or you’ll run into a flat.
Bush walking or hiking
Just like heading to remote areas, you’ll need to prepare for a hike of any kind, but especially for overnight stays. If you’re a beginner it’s advisable to hire a walking guide that knows the local routes like the back of their hand. And just like above, make sure you inform someone of your itinerary and arrival date.
What you wear is extremely important as good walking shoes may protect you from one of those nasty snake bites mentioned above. Equipment like a topographic map will help keep you on track.
Australia is the ultimate destination for any adventurer; however just like anywhere it has its risks. So keep informed and have a fantastic escape down under!