Lifestyle

The great outdoors

15/05/2011 Office of Road Safety

0

With 2011 being the International Year of the Forest, why not get out into the bush and discover how camping can help you kick back, relax and enjoy the ride in the fresh air.

Why camp? According to Pat Strahan, CEO of the Caravan Industry Association WA (Inc), it’s a great way to relax. “Once you hit the natural bushland, you really start to unwind – there are no TVs, computers or telephones to distract you (make an effort to leave your technology at home, safety gear aside), and there is little housework or shops to lose yourself in.

“This lack of outside distraction means there is little else to do but sit back and chat to your fellow campers or go bushwalking, paddle in a creek or throw a ball around.”

The secret to a successful camping trip is research and planning, Pat explains. First choose where to stay and uncover what the conditions are likely to be. There are hundreds of camping grounds around WA and you can look for them by level of amenity (grounds will range from having no facilities to bathrooms, kitchens and playgrounds). For a list of sites around WA, visit www.caravanwa.com.au and www.camping.com.au  

Choose a level of amenity you are comfortable with – while it is great to get back to basics, going too far beyond your comfort zone is unlikely to make for a relaxing experience.

The weather plays a big role in your experience and what you need to take. “Sleeping in a light sleeping bag in minus two degrees is not pleasant – if the weather is cold, it is worth going to a camping store and investing in proper temperature rated sleeping bags to keep you warm,” Pat says.

Also check that your tent and camping gear is in good condition by putting it up a few days before you go, giving you time to replace broken equipment.  Make sure you also have plenty of supplies. Check whether or not there are cooking facilities such as barbeques before you go and pack accordingly – no point bringing a large pork roast when you are cooking on a hot plate! Also remember plenty of water, a can opener and a first aid kit.

For more tips on camping – where to go and what to take, visit www.caravanwa.com.au or www.tourism.wa.gov.au.