First Trip Tips

Tips on Running Your First Trip

Thinking of running a trip?

Now is the time for you to discuss your ideas with an experienced member of the Club, someone you would feel comfortable working with and having as a ‘Buddy‘ trip leader.

There are many areas that your buddy will be able to guide you through, such as the placement of vehicles in the trip and helping you to decide the person best suited for the position of ‘TEC’ (Tail End Charlie). Remember, if you do not feel confident in leading the trip over challenging areas, it’s OK for you to ask your Buddy or a more experienced driver to lead for this part of the trip.

Discuss with your Buddy possible trip destinations. Once a destination has been chosen you are required to conduct an information gathering trip (reccie). The information you need to establish is:

Dates, Times and Distances

  • Dates for the proposed trip
  • Meeting place and time
  • Total travel distance to the camp site
  • Total travel time to the camp site
  • Distance that will be travelled during the trip

Campsite

  • Name of the campsite
  • Location of the campsite
  • Proprietors of the campsite
  • Contact numbers/email for the camp site
  • Any Reserve or Park status (camping in and /or traversing)

Road Types and Conditions

  • Different conditions between home to campsite
  • Various trip ratings (e.g. scenic, easy, medium,extreme)

Camping Facilities

Availability of:

  • Drinking Water
  • Power
  • Toilets
  • Showers
  • Laundry
  • Camp Tables
  • BBQ’s
  • Camp Kitchens

Campsite:

  • Tent
  • Camper Trailer
  • Caravan
  • Cabins
  • Powered Sites
  • Ensuite Sites
  • Campfire Requirements
  • Pet Requirements (in camp/on trip)

Basic Supplies

  • Unleaded
  • Diesel
  • LGP
  • Firewood
  • Basic Groceries (e.g. milk, bread, beer)
  • Mobile Phone Coverage

Permits and Permissions

If permits are required, you need to allow enough time for the application and receipt of any permits.

  • Permits required
  • Permission required (private/institutional)
  • Maps

Activities

  • 4WD tracks
  • Scenic drives
  • Swimming (pool/creek)
  • Fishing (boat/shore)
  • Walking(hard/easy/short/long)
  • Type of terrain
  • Pubs/Restaurants
  • Local Tourist Attractions

What are your alternatives for inclement weather?

Discuss your trip plan with the Trip Co-ordinator. Show the Trip Co-ordinator what you have planned (including maps outlining the intended route) so it can be advertised to the rest of the club.