As much as 85% of Australia’s population lives near the coast, so it’s no wonder that Australians love the laid back beach lifestyle. But swimming, soaking up the sun, and surfing are not the only things you can do on the beach. If you love off roading in your 4WD and you like a little more challenge, then why not try beach driving and camping?
Beach driving and camping are some of the most thrilling outdoor activities one can do. You get to test how good you are at driving on something other than asphalt or concrete, and you’ll like the challenge of navigating sand dunes. You also get to unwind at the end of the long drive and set up your camp by the beach.
But beach driving and camping — though exhilarating — also have their own unique challenges. You can get bogged in the sand if you’re not careful, or encounter some wildlife or sea creatures.
If you’re planning to go on a beach adventure and camp there for some days, then check out our tips below to avoid ruining what will hopefully be a fun adventure.
Check your local laws and see if it is legal to camp on a particular beach
The beach is one of your favourite places on earth, so it’s only reasonable that you would want to spend a few days driving and camping there. But before you head out to your chosen location, it’s always wise to check if campers are allowed in the area.
Why? Let’s face it, accidents and other emergencies do happen. Camping in designated beaches allows police, emergency services, and others to respond quickly should emergencies arise because the area is already monitored by the authorities.
Drive a capable 4X4
A 2WD sedan might seem like a good option for beach driving and camping, but trust us, it’s just not. For navigating soft sand, you need a 4WD that can take on the challenge. Sand has poor traction compared to asphalt or concrete road, so you want a 4-wheel drive’s improved torque while its wheels spin slower to avoid getting stuck in the sand.
Sleep in total comfort in a teardrop camper
Your large tent has been your trusty shelter from the elements for many years. But staying inside a tent during the day is just too hot. Plus, it’s too cold during the night even when you’re inside a sleeping bag.
With a teardrop camper like Hitch Campers Canning, you can sleep and hang out in total comfort. This top-of-the-line teardrop camper features a queen-size foam mattress, AC/DC chargers, and a 2-burner gas stove so you can cook your own food. It even has a large awning to keep you and your family in the shade while relaxing by the beach.
Keep in mind that these are just standard inclusions. You can also request to have a solar panel mounted on the camper, have an ensuite shower added, or add an inverter so you can use small kitchen appliances even on the remotest beach in the country.
Worried that the Hitch Campers Canning will be too complicated to set up? Don’t worry because it’s designed to be as easy. Plus, it’s lightweight so you can hitch it to your vehicle and travel hassle-free.
Check your tyre pressure before you start your beach adventure
What makes beach driving and camping so exciting is the unpredictability of it. One moment you’re carefully navigating super dry and soft sand. Then the next you’re cruising smoothly on wet, densely packed sand.
But there is also danger in unpredictability, especially if you don’t start with and maintain correct tyre pressure. To ensure a safer and hassle-free trip, make sure to start at 18 to 20 psi if you’re driving on soft sand. Feel free to lower the pressure to 16 psi if necessary. Do not reduce the tyre pressure below 16 psi to prevent rolling the tyres off their rims.
Keep some recovery boards (Hitch Campers use TRED) and shovel in the boot of your 4WD vehicle
Unfortunately, getting stuck in the sand happens even to the best and most experienced drivers.
How do you get your vehicle unstuck? First, step off the gas. If you insist on flooring it, you’re only going to sink in the sand deeper. Get your TRED recovery boards and place them behind the tyres. Now get behind the wheel and back up.
If this doesn’t work, get your shovel and start digging in front of each of your tyres. Next, create a path extending several feet in front and remove as much sand as you can underneath your vehicle to get a relatively even surface. Get the TRED recovery boards in front of the tyres and carefully drive to get your vehicle unstuck.