Packing List for Remote Outback Camping

Packing & Gear

Stunning view of the remote outback landscape with red earth and sparse vegetation, showcasing the beauty of Australia's wilderness.

A well-prepared packing list is essential for remote outback camping, allowing you to immerse yourself in Australia’s breathtaking wilderness. With limited access to modern facilities like running water, power, or shops, thorough preparation is key. Whether setting up camp in the desert or deep in the bush, having the right gear and supplies ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience.

This Packing List for Remote Outback Camping ensures you have everything you need to be self-sufficient in the wild. It covers essentials such as water filtration systems, solar showers, long-lasting food, and survival tools, all of which are crucial for staying safe and comfortable in areas far from civilisation. 

Why Packing the Right Gear is Essential for Remote Camping

Camping in remote areas of the outback presents unique challenges. With no nearby services or shops, forgetting an important item could mean the difference between a smooth adventure and a stressful experience. Here’s why having a comprehensive packing list is essential for remote camping: 

  • Self-Sufficiency: In the outback, you’ll need to bring everything with you, from food and water to power and shelter. Being fully self-sufficient ensures you can handle any situation without relying on external services. 
  • Survival Preparedness: Remote areas can be unpredictable, with extreme weather, wildlife encounters, and rugged terrain. Packing essential survival tools like a first aid kit, GPS, and emergency shelter prepares you for any unforeseen challenges. 
  • Comfort and Safety: Even in the wilderness, staying comfortable is important. Packing the right gear, such as a portable shower, comfortable bedding, and a well-equipped camp kitchen, ensures you can enjoy your time in nature without sacrificing comfort or safety. 

Key Items to Pack for Remote Outback Camping

Here are the essential items to pack for your remote outback camping adventure. 

Water Filtration and Storage

Camping Water Filtration

Water Filtration System

Pack a reliable water filtration system or purification tablets to ensure you have access to clean drinking water. In remote areas, fresh water may be scarce, so it’s important to purify water from rivers or creeks.

A large, durable water jug with a sturdy handle and spout, set outdoors on a camping table.

Water Storage Containers

Bring large water containers or collapsible water bags that can hold enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. It’s recommended to carry at least 5 litres of water per person per day.

Tip:Always pack extra water containers in case of an emergency or unexpected delays.

Long-Lasting and Compact Food Supplies

non perishable food

Non-Perishable Foods

Pack long-lasting foods such as canned goods, dehydrated meals, and vacuum-sealed items that won’t spoil in hot conditions. These foods are ideal for remote camping since they don’t require refrigeration.

Energy bar placed on a camping table, providing a convenient and nutritious snack for outdoor adventures.

High-Energy Snacks

Bring energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit to keep your energy levels up during hikes and long days in the sun.

Tip: Plan your meals in advance and pack ready-to-eat options for days when cooking may be difficult.

Cooking Equipment

Camping stove set up at a campsite, ready for cooking meals outdoors in a natural setting.

Portable Stove

Pack a compact camping stove with enough fuel to last the trip. Choose a model that’s lightweight and easy to use in all weather conditions.

Lightweight cookware arranged on a camping table, perfect for preparing meals during outdoor adventures.

Camp Kitchen Setup

Bring basic cooking utensils like pots, pans, a spatula, and a camping kettle. Don’t forget cutlery and plates for everyone in your group.

Tip: Invest in lightweight, stackable cookware to save space in your vehicle. 

Solar Showers and Personal Hygiene

Portable solar shower in a natural outdoor setting, perfect for camping and outdoor activities.

Solar Shower

A solar shower bag allows you to have warm water for washing in the middle of the outback. Simply fill it with water, leave it in the sun to heat up, and enjoy a refreshing shower.

Biodegradable soap in a natural setting, suitable for camping and outdoor use, minimizing environmental impact.

Biodegradable Soap

Pack biodegradable soap for washing your body and dishes to avoid harming the environment.

Tip: Wet wipes or no-rinse body wipes are great alternatives when water is limited.

Shelter and Sleeping Gear

All-weather tent set up outdoors, featuring a sturdy frame, waterproof rainfly, and ventilation panels, with trees in the background.

All-Weather Tent

Pack a durable, all-weather tent with proper ventilation. Look for a tent that can withstand both hot days and cold nights in the outback.

A colorful sleeping bag rolled out on the ground, surrounded by pine trees and a scenic mountain backdrop, ready for camping or outdoor use.

Sleeping Bag and Mat

Bring a high-quality sleeping bag suited to the temperatures you’ll experience. Don’t forget a sleeping mat or inflatable mattress for extra comfort.

Tip: Choose a three-season sleeping bag if your trip will cover varied climates or extended periods in the outback. 

Survival Tools

A complete tool kit displayed on a wooden workbench, featuring a variety of hand tools such as wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and a hammer, all organized in a durable carrying case.

Multi-Tool

A multi-tool with knife, pliers, and screwdrivers is invaluable for repairs and small tasks around camp.

First Aid Kit

First Aid Kit

Pack a comprehensive first aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and treatment for insect bites. Consider adding a snake bite kit, which is essential in the Australian outback.

Tip: Carry a GPS device or personal locator beacon (PLB) for navigation and emergency signaling in case you get lost or injured.

Power and Lighting

A portable solar charger placed on a rock outdoors, with its solar panels open to the sun, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky, showcasing its use for charging devices off-grid.

Solar Charger

Pack a solar charger or portable power bank to keep your devices charged in remote areas. These chargers can power GPS devices, phones, and other electronics.

LED lights illuminating a campsite at night, providing bright and energy-efficient lighting for outdoor activities.

LED Lanterns and Headlamps

Bring LED lanterns for lighting your campsite at night and headlamps for hands-free use when setting up camp or hiking after dark.

Tip:Pack extra batteries or an additional power bank to ensure you never run out of light.

User Tips from Outback Experts

Tip from Dave, Alice Springs:

"We always bring extra fuel and food, just in case. Out in the middle of nowhere, you can't rely on finding supplies. Better safe than sorry."

Tip from Melissa, Cairns:

"The solar shower was a game changer for us. After a hot day hiking, it was a luxury to have a warm shower in the evening, even out in the bush."

Download the Remote Outback Camping Packing List

Make sure you’re fully prepared for your next remote camping adventure by downloading our Packing List for Remote Outback Camping. This fillable, downloadable checklist includes everything from water filtration to survival tools, so you can enjoy your time in the wild with peace of mind. 

Download Checklist Now

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