Easter presents a fantastic opportunity for adventure, especially for those with a passion for camping and exploring the rugged beauty of Australia through four-wheel driving.

Imagine navigating the thrilling, rough tracks of the outback, feeling the fresh breeze as you cruise along the pristine beaches of K’gari, or embarking on a daring expedition into the majestic Victorian High Country. The stunning landscapes serve as a breath-taking backdrop to your escapade, but to truly make the most of your journey, having the right gear is absolutely crucial.

With thoughtful preparation and the right tools at your disposal, your Easter escape can transform into a memorable adventure filled with excitement and discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, we’re here to guide you with a curated list of must-have items that will ensure your holiday is nothing short of amazing. Gear up for an unforgettable experience this Easter.

JUMP AHEAD

Lighting and entertainment

When the sun goes down, being able to see your campsite is a priority, and portable lighting like the Hardkorr 4 Pack U-Lite dual-colour LED lanterns with built-in lithium batteries is a winner.

A decent head torch that is rechargeable and has red LED night vision helps when eating in the dark, so you won’t blind anyone when talking to them.

A couple of flood beam lights, such as Narva LED Work Lamps, will illuminate the campsite. If you don’t like bugs, lights with a red light colour option don’t attract them as much as white or yellow lights, and they keep your night vision working.

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A drone or GoPro is a fantastic tool for capturing the epic moments of your adventure, and a dedicated digital camera will produce much better images than a mobile phone.

A portable Bluetooth speaker will keep the tunes blasting, and it’s a good idea to download a few playlists onto your music device. Without mobile coverage, streaming music isn’t feasible. If you want to avoid technology, why not bring along a puzzle book and some games to enjoy, like UNO or Yahtzee?

Whether you’re off to a sun-soaked beach or setting up camp by a sparkling river, make sure to pack your trusty fishing rod and tackle box because what’s better than a day filled with laughter, sunshine and the thrill of reeling in the big one? And remember, depending on the state you’re fishing in, you might also need a fishing licence.

Cooking

A barbecue like the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grille or a Weber Baby Q lets you easily cook up a feast, whether it’s a morning fry-up or a slow-cooked roast dinner.

At the same time, the propane-fuelled STOV BBQ Grill is a lightweight flat-pack option that is easy to assemble and takes up little space in your vehicle.

A dual-zone fridge/freezer keeps your food fresh, drinks cold and ice cream solid without the hassle of ice. At the same time, a decent icebox is excellent for keeping the drinks icy cold for up to three days and providing ice blocks for your whisky and dry. I say decent because some cheap ice boxes are like an esky; the ice melts quickly.

Sitting around or cooking on a campfire is synonymous with bush camping in Australia, but more destinations require you to use a constructed fireplace or something portable like the Darche BBQ 450, which reduces the fire’s size, keeps it off the ground, and allows you to cook some great meals on the included grill.

If fires can’t be lit or you prefer to cook with gas, there are plenty of propane/butane/LPG stoves to choose from, and prices range from $20 to more than $500. The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Stove is an excellent example, as it comes with a pot and pan. Speaking of pots and pans, lightweight and stackable is the way to go, and the Outback Explorer Smart Storage Cookware Set is a handy compact option for a gas or induction stove.

Comfort and convenience

When it comes to camping comfort, a cosy chair is non-negotiable! After countless adventures, we’ve discovered that everyone has their unique favourite when it comes to camp chairs.

Picture this: a flexible table that serves multiple purposes, from meal prep and dining to hosting a fun card game night. We recommend one made from durable aluminium, like the Stratus Outdoor Derek, which can handle hot pots without a hitch.

If you’re working with a 12V setup, a DC-DC charger paired with a lithium battery is your go-to for reliable power. But for a hassle-free option, consider the Redarc GoBlock or a portable power station like the Bluetti; they make life so much simpler these days. Plus, don’t forget about solar panels or blankets to keep your batteries charged and your adventures powered up.

Now, let’s talk about privacy. An ensuite tent is a game-changer for those essential moments – whether it’s for the porta-potty, changing clothes or enjoying a shower in the great outdoors. Quick Pitch’s original ensuite tent has become a classic, widely imitated across the country. While you can find budget-friendly options, we think the Alu-Cab Shower Cube stands out as one of the best.

And for those who crave instant hot water, the Joolca Hottap heats things up quickly when hooked up to LPG. If you’re looking for alternatives, the Companion Aqua Heater gets the job done just as effectively.

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Navigation and communication

Getting to your destination without getting lost is the name of the game, and a Hema HX-2+ GPS or Garmin Overlander helps you navigate remote areas without relying on a phone signal.

Please don’t rely on Apple or Google Maps, as they could lead you up the garden path. Having paper maps that cover the areas you are heading to is a great backup. Other helpful apps for adventures include Wikicamps, CamperMate and Newtracs.

A UHF is convenient for vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and you can’t go past the Uniden XTRAK 80 or the GME XRS UHF to keep you connected with fellow travellers. A 5W handheld unit is handy for keeping an eye on the kids or guiding hubby when he is trying to park the camper trailer. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 or Zoleo Satellite Communicator enables you to send SOS messages to emergency contacts if needed.

A true game changer for adventurers is Starlink, an innovative and portable high-speed satellite internet system developed and operated by SpaceX. This cutting-edge technology opens up new possibilities for connectivity in remote locations where traditional internet options may be limited or non-existent.

With Starlink, travellers and outdoor enthusiasts can easily stream their favourite shows on Netflix, stay in touch with friends and family through video calls, share their adventures on social media, or perform any other online activities they typically enjoy at home.

This advancement transforms the way people engage with the world while pursuing their adventurous lifestyles, making it easier than ever to stay connected and entertained wherever you go.

For the kids

Easter is just around the corner and is a magical time of year that transforms campsites into a cheerful hub as kids enjoy whimsical Easter egg hunts.

Imagine the delight on children’s faces as they scurry around the bush searching for those delightful, colourful Easter eggs, each one waiting to bring a radiant smile and a sense of triumph when discovered.

You can’t overlook mouth-watering hot cross buns. These iconic treats, oozing with rich, aromatic spices and finished with a shiny, sweet glaze, are delicious and evoke warmth and comfort, making them perfect for a cosy breakfast. Picture them freshly toasted on the grill on the fire, their intoxicating aroma wafting through the air as you savour each delightful bite.

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The magical Easter Bunny, that whimsical figure of wonder, deserves a moment to breathe after a busy day of hiding eggs. Once the last egg has been tucked away, it’s only fitting that this enchanting creature unwinds with wonderfully refreshing drinks. As you gather around the crackling fire with your family, make sure you’re prepared for an extraordinary celebration.

Are you worried about the potential hazards of glass bottles breaking during your adventures? Off Track Wines has thoughtfully curated a stunning selection of premium wines conveniently packaged in practical, portable cans – ideally suited for your Easter break.

And let’s not forget about The Standard Squeeze, your trusty companion for mixing drinks. With it by your side, achieving the perfect pour of 30ml has never been easier, ensuring that every sip is just right.

Recovery and safety

Looking to make the most of your Easter getaway? Some of the most stunning destinations require a bit of preparation, like adjusting your tyre pressures to suit varying conditions.

Enter the Maxtrax Indeflate, your go-to solution for inflating and deflating multiple tyres at once, making your adventures smoother and more efficient. But don’t forget, you’ll need a reliable air compressor to restore those tyres. The ARB Brushed Compressor is your ideal companion; available in a portable kit or designed for vehicle mounting, it’s perfect for any trip. A set of tyre plugs lets you plug a punctured tyre, often without needing to remove the wheel.

Sometimes, when embarking on off-road adventures or navigating challenging terrains, you may encounter various obstacles that could require vehicle recoveries.

In such situations, having the right gear can significantly ease the recovery process and ensure your safety. A comprehensive recovery kit, such as the renowned Ironman 4×4 Starter Recovery Set, includes all the essential tools and equipment needed for a successful extraction.

To further enhance your recovery capabilities, consider adding Tred Pro recovery tracks to your arsenal. These tracks provide excellent traction and support, making it much easier to get your vehicle unstuck from mud, sand or snow. Together with your recovery kit, these tracks will prepare you for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your expedition.

Additionally, we highly recommend upgrading from traditional steel bow shackles to rated soft shackles, such as the Maxtrax Core Shackles. Soft shackles are not only significantly lighter but also possess enhanced safety features, reducing the risk of injury in case of a breakage.

By investing in quality recovery gear, you can ensure a smoother, safer off-roading experience, no matter what challenges you face along the way.

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Well-stocked first aid kits, such as the Survival First Aid Kit and a Snake Bite Kit, should always be essential components of your preparedness setup. These kits not only provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or emergencies but also ensure that you are adequately equipped to deal with potentially life-threatening situations, such as snake bites.

Having these items easily accessible can significantly increase your chances of staying safe and managing any unforeseen circumstances effectively. Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness, exploring remote areas or simply preparing for unexpected events, taking the time to prepare these kits can be invaluable. Remember, first aid preparedness is a critical part of any survival plan.

If your Easter adventure leads you to a remote and picturesque destination, having a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) becomes absolutely essential. In situations where lives might be at risk due to unforeseen circumstances, the PLB serves as a vital safety tool.

One notable option is the GME MT610G, which is designed to be both compact and lightweight, making it an ideal companion for any outdoor excursion. This innovative device ensures that, in case of an emergency, you can quickly signal for help, providing peace of mind during your adventurous getaway.

Accommodation and shelter

A good night’s sleep is not just a luxury, it’s a vital part of any outdoor adventure.

To ensure you wake up refreshed and ready for the day’s exploits, invest in high-quality swags like the versatile Darche Dirty Dee or go for a spacious rooftop tent like the impressive Alu-Cab Gen 3. Both options guarantee maximum comfort and reliable protection against the unpredictable elements of nature.

When it comes to choosing the perfect tent, two brands stand out among outdoor enthusiasts: Coleman, known for its durable and budget-friendly options, and Oztent, which offers innovative designs that make setup a breeze.

To enhance your camping experience further, consider adding a 270-degree awning like the Bushwakka Extreme 270 to your setup. This awning not only provides ample shade during those hot, sunny afternoons but also offers excellent rain protection, ensuring that your camp life remains enjoyable regardless of the weather.

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