Big Lap Gear Guide: Everything You Need For Your Car

Planning a Big Lap around Australia means your car becomes more than just transport: it’s your lifeline, your mobile command centre, and your ticket to freedom. Whether you’re towing a caravan, driving a motorhome, or hitting the road with a camper trailer, the right gear can make the difference between a smooth adventure and a stressful nightmare.

From essential safety equipment that could save your life in the remote outback to comfort accessories that make those long driving days more bearable, we’ve rounded up everything you need to kit out your vehicle for extended travel around Australia. This guide covers the full spectrum: must-have safety gear, navigation tools, power solutions, recovery equipment, and those clever accessories that experienced Big Lappers swear by.

Essential Safety Equipment

Safety gear isn’t optional on a Big Lap. Australia’s vast distances and remote areas mean you need to be self-sufficient when things go wrong. The right safety equipment can literally save your life.

Every Big Lap vehicle should carry a comprehensive first aid kit designed for remote travel. The Adventure Medical Kits Comprehensive ~$185 includes everything from basic bandages to emergency medications, with clear instructions for non-medical people.

Don’t overlook basic safety items like warning triangles, high-vis vests, and a quality torch with spare batteries. The Petzl Tikka Headlamp ~$55 keeps your hands free for roadside repairs or setting up camp after dark.

Navigation & Communication

Mobile coverage disappears quickly once you leave major highways, making reliable navigation and communication equipment crucial for Big Lap safety and convenience.

While smartphone apps like Gaia GPS are excellent, they rely on mobile coverage and battery life. A dedicated GPS unit provides backup navigation when your phone fails or loses signal. The Hema HX-1 Navigator ~$695 comes preloaded with detailed Australian maps including 4WD tracks, campsites, and fuel stops.

Communication gear extends beyond emergency use. A good UHF radio connects you to truck drivers who provide real-time road conditions, weather updates, and local knowledge. Many caravan parks and tourist areas monitor channel 8 or 40 for traveller information.

Power & Charging Solutions

Modern Big Lap travel means staying connected, and that requires reliable power for phones, tablets, cameras, and other devices. Your car’s electrical system becomes a mobile power station with the right equipment.

An auxiliary battery system lets you run devices without draining your starter battery. The Century 4WD N70ZZ Deep Cycle ~$285 provides 100Ah capacity and handles repeated discharge cycles better than standard car batteries.

Solar panels keep batteries topped up during extended stops. A flexible 120W panel like the REDARC Solar Blanket ~$495 folds away easily and provides meaningful charging power for auxiliary systems.

Recovery Equipment

Getting stuck is part of Big Lap life, whether it’s sand, mud, or just a poor reversing decision. The right recovery gear gets you moving again without waiting hours for help.

Recovery boards work wonders in sand and mud. The MAXTRAX Recovery Boards ~$385 are the gold standard: lightweight, grippy, and virtually indestructible. Two boards handle most passenger vehicle recoveries.

Don’t forget basic items like a quality shovel for digging out wheels, and work gloves to protect your hands during recoveries. The Bushranger Folding Shovel ~$45 stores compactly but handles serious digging when needed.

Maintenance & Tools

Regular maintenance keeps your Big Lap on track, and basic tools let you handle minor repairs without hunting for mechanics in small towns. Smart tool selection covers common issues without overloading your vehicle.

Beyond basic tools, carry fluids for top-ups and minor emergencies. Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid prevent small leaks from becoming major problems. The SCA Spill Kit ~$25 handles accidents cleanly.

Electrical issues plague travellers more than mechanical ones. A basic multimeter like the Jaycar Digital Multimeter ~$29 helps diagnose battery, charging, and wiring problems. Pack electrical tape, cable ties, and spare fuses for quick fixes.

Comfort & Convenience

Long driving days become more bearable with comfort accessories that reduce fatigue and improve the travel experience. Small investments in driver comfort pay big dividends over thousands of kilometres.

Seat comfort matters enormously on 8-hour driving days. The Obus Forme Lumbar Support ~$79 reduces back strain, while a quality seat cover protects upholstery and adds padding where needed.

Consider window ventilation screens for airflow without insects, especially important in tropical areas. The Bushskinz Window Screens ~$65 custom-fit most vehicles and pack away compactly when not needed.

Storage & Organisation

Proper storage systems keep essential gear accessible while preventing damage during travel. Good organisation means finding what you need quickly without unpacking half your vehicle.

Roof storage expands capacity but requires secure mounting and weatherproof containers. The Thule Force XT Roof Box ~$749 provides 400 litres of protected storage for bulky, lightweight items like bedding and clothing.

Cargo barriers prevent loose items becoming projectiles during sudden stops or accidents. The ARB Cargo Barrier ~$385 fits specific vehicle models and provides peace of mind when carrying heavy gear.

Don’t underestimate the value of good tie-down points. Cargo nets, bungee cords, and ratchet straps keep everything secure during rough road sections. Pack various sizes because you’ll use them constantly for different loads.