The Complete Buyers Guide To Big Lap Safety Essentials
In This Section
Gear Guide: Emergency Essentials
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Planning a big lap around Australia means preparing for everything from remote breakdowns to medical emergencies. The right safety gear can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious crisis when you’re hundreds of kilometres from help.
This guide covers the essential safety equipment every big lapper needs, from communication devices to first aid kits. We’ve tested and researched each category to give you specific product recommendations with real prices and practical advice.
- Coverage area: Ensure your communication devices work where you plan to travel, particularly in remote areas without mobile coverage.
- Battery life: Look for devices with long battery life or multiple power options for extended trips.
- Ease of use: Emergency equipment needs to be simple to operate under stress.
- Maintenance requirements: Consider ongoing costs like satellite subscriptions and expiry dates for items like flares.
- Storage conditions: Equipment must handle Australia’s extreme temperatures in your caravan or vehicle.
- Weight and space: Balance comprehensive coverage with caravan payload limits.
Emergency Communication Devices
Communication devices are your lifeline when travelling in remote areas. While mobile phones work in towns and along major highways, they’re useless in much of outback Australia where many big lappers venture.
✔ Pros
- Works anywhere without mobile coverage
- No ongoing subscription costs
- GPS provides exact location to rescuers
- Australian-made and ACMA certified
✗ Cons
- Emergency-only communication (no two-way messaging)
- Battery must be replaced every 5-6 years
- Larger than some alternatives
✔ Pros
- Two-way messaging keeps family informed
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Pairs with smartphone for easier typing
- Weather forecasts available
✗ Cons
- Requires ongoing subscription ($240+ per year)
- Small screen difficult to use without phone
- Message costs add up on higher plans
✔ Pros
- Significantly cheaper than premium models
- Same GPS accuracy and satellite network
- LED strobe aids visual location
- No subscription required
✗ Cons
- Shorter GPS acquisition time than MT600G
- Less rugged construction
- No self-test function
Register your EPIRB with ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) and update your details whenever you move. This ensures rescue services know who owns the beacon and can contact your emergency contacts.
First Aid Kits
A comprehensive first aid kit becomes critical when you’re hours or days from medical help. Standard car first aid kits aren’t sufficient for extended outback travel where minor injuries can become serious without proper treatment.
✔ Pros
- Designed for Australian conditions
- Includes snake bite treatment supplies
- Comprehensive manual with clear instructions
- Waterproof storage case
✗ Cons
- Larger and heavier than basic kits
- Some items have expiry dates
- More expensive than standard car kits
~$89
Vehicle Safety Equipment
Vehicle breakdowns in remote areas can quickly become safety emergencies. Basic tools and safety equipment can prevent a mechanical issue from becoming a rescue situation.
Never use a snatch strap with a caravan attached. Disconnect the van and use a different recovery method, or seek help from someone with proper equipment and experience.
Fire Safety
Fire safety equipment protects both your caravan and surrounding bushland. With Australia’s extreme fire conditions, proper fire safety gear isn’t optional for big lappers.
✔ Pros
- Handles electrical and fuel fires
- Good capacity for the weight
- Wall mounting bracket included
- Australian manufactured
✗ Cons
- Dry powder creates mess
- Requires annual service
- Limited discharge time
~$45
Water Safety
Access to clean drinking water becomes critical in emergency situations. Water purification and storage equipment ensures you won’t be forced to drink contaminated water while waiting for help.
~$129
~$39
Personal Protection Equipment
Personal protection goes beyond sunscreen and hats when travelling remote Australia. Proper clothing and protection equipment can prevent minor issues from becoming medical emergencies.
Emergency Supplies
Emergency supplies bridge the gap between a problem occurring and help arriving. These items can make the difference between a manageable situation and a life-threatening one.
| Item | Purpose | Approximate Cost | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED HeadlampEssential | Hands-free lighting for repairs/emergencies | $25-$45 | High |
| Emergency Food (3 days) | Backup nutrition if stranded | $50-$80 | High |
| Space Blanket | Emergency warmth/shelter | $8-$15 | Medium |
| Multi-tool | Basic repairs and cutting tasks | $45-$120 | Medium |
| Emergency Cash | Small town purchases when cards fail | $200-$500 | Medium |
Store emergency cash in multiple locations around your caravan and vehicle. Small towns often have limited EFTPOS facilities, and power outages can make cards useless.
- Emergency communication devices (EPIRB or satellite messenger) are non-negotiable for remote travel
- Comprehensive first aid kits designed for Australian conditions beat standard car kits
- Fire safety equipment should be mounted in both your vehicle and car
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