Great advice. I have been traveling around Australia and solo camping all my life (I'm in my mid 50's now). I have never had any issues anywhere I have camped. My main hates I have now are the party campers with loud music and leaving all their rubbish behind when they are finished.
Great advice mate. I've been solo camping for a little over 30 years with no real problems. The best advice I have to avoid issues with anyone else is to push into places most people can't be bothered going to. I'm an avid fisho so getting to those out of the way places gives me a better chance of landing bigger/more fish but it also greatly reduces the chances of encountering other people. I've found some ripper spots
Bunnings= Pestxpert wasp spray. Up to 6m distance. Stings and Blinds the target same as bear spray. ( self defence only for solo campers ). Thank me later. Cheers 👍
This “tips” a laugh 🤣👍🏽 More dangerous to the idiot using it if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction🤦♀️ Let’s face it, 99.9% of people wouldn’t stop to think of that in a panicked situation! Safer for them to throw the can at them and run 🤭
I have camped all through the Kimberley region without problems ,my favorite spots are around Wolfe Creek ,hope to catch you up this way sometime, Regards Mick
I've heard this advice .. if you park your caravan overnight somewhere in an isolated place (highway lay-by, bush etc, non caravan park) ... do the following : Position the caravan so the door is in close proximity to a substantially large tree. That way an undesirable or worse cannot park his vehicle up against the caravan door, trapping you and family inside. Offender is then at liberty to do anything he likes .. steal wheels or any property, tamper with your vehicle or worse.
Excellent channel. I’m an elderly solo camper and my solution to people with ‘issues’ is I wired a wireless receiver to all my roof lights and put an alarm siren under the bonnet. If I’m worried I first press the lights to come on. If I’m still concerned I press the siren button. Only used it once so far but it worked extremely well.Subbed
Excellent video with a great collection of tips. Just came across your channel and was very impressed with how you present. You have a great natural style. I’m subscribed now.
Australia seems to have a reputation (mostly overseas) of having everything that will kill you. It's true that of course we have snakes and spiders but just be careful and they are of little significance. Obviously, don't swim where there are crocs and don't swim in stinger waters but apart from that it's a very safe country in which to roam about. I like camping in Oz because we don't have large carnivores. Yeah, in the worst case scenario you might cop a sting. But nothings going to jump out and eat you. If I lived in a country with (for example) bears I'd be much more worried about walking or camping in the bush.
100% agree. Never had an issue with wildlife ever! Feral dogs are a consideration but I'm far more concerned about idiots. Fortunately only had to leave a camping area once because of morons.
I woke up at 3am yesterday with banging and clanging going on, and thought ok who’s robbing me. Turned out to be a huge possum cleaning up the dishes. My tip would be always wash the dishes before bed and always make sure your bin bag is zipped up. Never leave any trace of food out.
So true about dangerous people in the bush. My mum used to tell me how worried she was about me camping alone in the bush. I would tell her I'm far safer in the bush than I am in the city on a Friday or Saturday night.
Great topic, and sensible advice esp about weapons, Competence and legality are the keys to that issue, best to stay away from trouble if you can, my only add on is to consider an out, that is, if you’re concerned, or there’s a chance of the situation changing, have your car pointed in the direction of the way out, this goes for both wild people, but also Mother Nature issues, fire, flood, storm etc.
Off topic but about the yahoo crowd... camping at Yaegerup dunes WA. The kids and I went to bed. The party crowd kept going. About 1am we were woken by their daughter ( 6ish years old) crying out looking for her mother... They all gotten samshed and driven off to the beach .. imagine if that girl had gotten lost in bush... luckily my daughter was 9 and sat in the tent with her until they came back about an hour later... Still shudder over thought that they left the kids to go drunk nught driving.
Great video and a great conversation starter. I myself enjoy solo camping. I think the most significant risk for people who are solo camping is being alone with their own thoughts if you know what I mean. And I find the best Music to keep people away is the Bee Gees.😀
For that absolute worst case scenario you mention. The Jetstar guy. Go to Bunnings and get a spray can of wasp spray. In case you camp near an unexpected European Wasp nest. Delivers an effective, high pressure, 6 metres distance jet stream of nastiness. It is completely legal to be prepared for wasps in the bush. Less than $20.
Thanks very much - yep spiders and snakes give me the Jeebies …but I’m getting braver every time I go camping by myself, I’m a very mature female, I just love the bush - really appreciate your advice and tips.
I've done 2 week solo push-bike rides along the Murray. To be honest, you meet all sorts being solo. An in all solo camping I've never had a bad experience with any of them.
The o’l extra long Maglight works a treat shines a good light and is heavy duty enough with enough weight behind it to defend your self if needed bonus ya can’t get arrested for having one 😉
I always take a personal locator beacon (PLB) when solo camping and I do lot of it. It great bit insurance when the SHTF. Though a bit bulky, I also use an Ozpig when solo camping because it is very efficient (not much time wasted collecting fire wood) keeps me warm and I do all my cooking on it. It is also easy to set up and very easy to get going. Great video. Very professional.
Thanks mate, I appreciate it. Ive looked at the OZpigs a few times, I cant get my head around the size of it and how to stow it in my setup. I like the idea of it though
Great Video mate, I usually put up a trail cam to watch over my gear when I am away from it (Obviously hidden) never had anything stolen so haven't had to look through it, TIP put it somewhere where you can catch people coming and going
I solo motorcycle camp here in the U.S I bring a product that is a bleed stop for large wounds. Like you said slowing down and being more careful while chopping wood, vegetables etc. I also put bells on my pack while hiking. I carry bear spray and "The Governor " For personal protection. Bears, cougars, and people. I agree though don't allow it in your head. Keep camp picked up and locked up. Happy Camping!🙂
People often say they are worried about snakes and other things that will kill you in Australia. But most things here wont hunt you down and kill you, like what you have.
Good content and very informative for people out there concerned about these points. I myself have travelled remote solo camping throughout all states etc here in our amazing country. When lm a little unsettled in a location very very rare l leave my fire extinguisher close and handy have l ever had to use it NO. and yes you can buy pepper spray in WA
Been solo camping for 15 years, only one scary moment. Camped near an apparently abandoned tent surrounded by about 100 pots and pans. When we left I thought I should check all was well. On calling out anyone there? I was answered with leave me alone can’t you see I’m busy. We left very quickly.
There are a few people that live homeless out there and just want to be left alone. Ive come across a few over the years, but they just want to be left alone.
Social media has buggered the high country all these tosses Come up from Melbourne carnt drive on the road they drive on the side of it to see how much damage they can do & it’s not hard to take ya rubbish home or bury ya shit paper 🤷♂️
Youre on the money there mate. I 100% agree. When I see the guys trying to stop the closures of the state forests, all I can think about are those tosses ripping up the bush.
Great video! I solo camp on a bike. I'll generally find an out of the way out of mind/sight campsite. Thoughts always wander for the first night. Never had any major dramas.
I used to solo camp on my triumph tiger. Loved it. But as you say, I always had a quick way out. For some reason, I felt more vulnerable on the bike camps.
I think most blokes with sleep with a weapon next to them when NOT camping. The good old baseball bat for example. Especially if they have a family to protect. We're the ones expected to check bumps in the night. I lived in a unit about a decade ago, and the couple across the hall from me had their door kicked in and were abducted. They kicked a few more doors, but I had the police on the way. It was a scary night. If I camp solo, I'm far from anybody. I really get out into the wild. Usually backpack hammock camping. Generally stealthy. Not in a camp site. When camping with the family, I keep a weapon close at hand. If someone or something messes with my kids.... well, I'm coming out like a mad man. Never had any negative encounters while camping, aside from young, drunk idiots in 4x4s hooning about. But even they leave you alone. They just mess up your zen. All the dangerous people are generally too scared to go camping. You're safer in the bush than any town or city. For all people know, YOU'RE the serial killer waiting for them. Especially when you're camping solo.
Great topic and helpful tips. I've wanted to go solo camping for a while but still haven't done it, not because of the thieves or rowdy people with loud music it's the one nutter that I'm going to run into that I'm scared of.
Got a sleeping platform in the back of 200 series. I can easily just jump in the front and drive off if there is any trouble. Always park facing an escape route. Agree probability of trouble is very low.
Great video mate. For me a spare Chainsaw Chain NEW one and good gloves and swing it if needed as a last defence. Fire Extinguisher a bloody good one too. Cheers.
I do solo hiking, luckily I go where there arent many people but you made some good points - widow makers and hypothermia scare me more than any people or animals.
I spent a lot of time in the bush I use to swag on the ground then it was in the landcruiser set up but now to many well different types and they are everywhere so no more and that is only my own progression from over the years .totally agree in your advice if you are not comfortable move no worries enjoy
Just come across your video 👍🏻 top tips which I’ve taken onboard so thanks 👍🏻 coming from the uk and touring the nt in a 4wd camper we’re very inexperienced on the outback and camping in oz so great tips 👍🏻 bit harsh on abba though there music is iconic……maybe change that comment to nickelback 😂 great video mate 👍🏻 ps you didn’t mention dealing with yowies 😳 and yes your right stop watching videos it’s all in ya head 🤪
New to your channel. You have a nice style and spoke a lot of truth. I like to take the dog with me, but he’s not welcome in national parks and I could imagine in your wild dog scenario he’d likely have made it worse. Look forward to more videos.
When sleeping in a dodgy or remote area, I sleep with a 10" cordless chainsaw beside the bed. If someone actually comes into my off road caravan at night to do me or my wife harm, they may be in trouble. Outside noises I don't care, they can have it.
ABBA's Greatest Hits....awesome, I'll bring the wine, nibbles and dance mat. Sensible video thank you. I feel comfortable with my heavy baton torch inside the tent with me. I also park facing out ready for quick exit. As a female camper, putting some bright male undies out in full sight on a line somewhere keeps people guessing....
Informative and entertaining! As a female who solo camps in a small tent personal safety is always at the back of my mind. But I think women have good reason to feel edgy at times. We are physically not as strong as most blokes therefore being more vulnerable. I’ve never watched Wolf Creek (and never will!) because it would probably stop me from solo camping/hiking. I think you are right about most people being “good”. In 20 years of doing this gig I’ve never once felt threatened or been harassed. Maybe I’m just lucky… Looking forward to more vids
In QLD one can get a certified rifle box fitted to the vehicle and then engineered for updated compliance. The weapon can't be transported to a National Park, but you may go through it. I think that NT and WA are the same.
I knew a bloke many years ago that used to travel around with a caravan and he kept an SKK rifle loaded always next to him, he said there were many weirdos out there, (of which he was one) we thought he was the backpacker murderer until Ivan was caught.
Mental health and drug use are more prevalent these days.Setting up camp one evening, i encountered an over friendly anoying female that after about 15 mins had a male backup suspicous character suddenly appear. i left the capsite and went further up the road. Remaining friendly and courtious averted trouble.
My camping involves traveling light, a 50 pound recurve bow and my old man's kabar, I like to go off by myself and pretend I'm the only bastard in the bush. Love it, never had much trouble with people that way.
I have Tyson, not Mike, but a 60kg BullMastiff that can hear a sound that is not normal from about 2 klms away. He can’t punch like mike , but can knock you over with his hip flicks, and then sit on you That will do for the security
Same with my pair of Kelpie, and a Kelpie Cattle. Best not come causing problems. Sux good people are limited just because of dogs when there's so many grubs without dogs
Can I suggest being aware of where you camp. 28 years ago, we were travelling along Newell Highway and got really tired. Those days, there were no wiki camps, so we pulled up at a farmers' gate. Stupid us it was Saturday night and at 2 am the boys were coming home from the pub so they thought it was a good idea to terrorise us till my late husband decided to wind down the window a little bit and inform them they were scaring children. They stopped, but we were done with sleep. That is the only instant I have had trouble. I solo camp now for 10 years, and still no issues. I do pack my gear away and lock doors before bed and lock up doors. I also leave my jockey wheel up and back my rear car tyres on ramps to level up, so if I need to take off in a hurry, the only thing to leave behind is the orange ramps.
In the ninetees, my ex and i were camping just off a highway a ways. It was late, and we heard a vehicle stop some distance away. We didn't think anything of it. A while later, suddenly, something leapt onto our roo bar and started bouncing up and down, shaking the whole campervan. We were terrified. Then it stopped, but we didn't hear anything more. Not even.footsteps. Needless to say, we didn't sleep all night.
solo camped in a dozen countries, hate paid camp sites, all those city slickers cramped together horses kill more in Au than snakes, sharks crocs and spiders together 10 a year, shotgun is pretty useful
You mentioned widow makers but forgot Drop Bears! Especially the ones with a can of Bundy Rum in their claw...........they are mainly attracted to blonds i believe..or so the rumour goes..
Carry a knife for sure, 3 rocks- fair size and a stick, a nice hardwood stick, known as a nulla nulla in Aboriginal way. All 3 can become very handy. A bow for distance 😊
Having lived in a war zone in Southern Africa for years, carrying a firearm was a part of normal life . Same goes to say regarding the fear factor . Australia is risk averse and living here I noticed people don’t like taking risks . My dog 🐕 travels with me and he is a good early warning system. Always carry a deterrent aswell. The biggest risk I guess is falling branches you mentioned and the wildlife.
I am an ex-soldier like you , but from the 70-80's era, 12 years worth, and I agree with you, but we did have an incident in the mid 80's on an Around OZ trip, that if I didn't have a 22 semi auto, we wouldn't be here today, it happened in the Kimberley region. I am not going to say it wouldn't happen today, but am pretty sure people are not roaming around with 303's intentionally wanting to murder people and steal their money and wares in 2024. Sure JetStar man is the exception, but he is not the rule. So I travel virtually unarmed today, and do many solo trips, by bicycle, motorbike and car always with my dog, and he is my alarm, and I am very aware of his capabilities. I/we have had virtually no trouble whatsoever since that incident in 85' , that was just a one off in my 65 years, that I am glad I was very capable of dealing with that person at the time. So yeah we feel safe camping anywhere today in OZ.
What advice would you have given the victims that lost there lives in the high country then? If weapons are frowned upon Great channel only started watching and will keep watching Regards Marc
I suspect what happened there is an escalation that could have been avoided. Its only a feeling, I wasn't there. Its hard for us to understand what happened. The outcome of the trial certainly suggests it could have been avoided.
You forgot one specific group of people. These days a group of people whether it be 2, 3 or more have a specific agenda. That is to overwhelm you and either harm you, take your car or your belongings or do whatever they like. This behaviour is becoming more regular than most people think. Just saying......
I still think they are far and few between. Also only in certain areas. Ive never heard of anything like that happening to anybody in a campsite, more in the cities.
@@Haveacrack76 That’s exactly the reason to get out in the bush. The more remote or difficult the place is to get too, the less chance such type of people will travel there. My experience is dickheads and yobos only ever turn up at places where you can easily drive a car.
No where is dangerous unless you put yourself in a situation you are not capable of surviving in by lying to yourself thinking that will keep you safe but if ya killed you won't have too much time to worry about it 😅
No one, and I mean NO ONE, who has a normal firearm licence, is licenced for self-defense. Read your licence ... it states what the firearm can LEGALLY be used for.
Great advice. I have been traveling around Australia and solo camping all my life (I'm in my mid 50's now). I have never had any issues anywhere I have camped. My main hates I have now are the party campers with loud music and leaving all their rubbish behind when they are finished.
Whole heartedly agree mate
Yes absolutely the young party campers have absolutely no respect for others.
Iv had a crack at a few of them usually they tone it down
Great advice mate. I've been solo camping for a little over 30 years with no real problems. The best advice I have to avoid issues with anyone else is to push into places most people can't be bothered going to. I'm an avid fisho so getting to those out of the way places gives me a better chance of landing bigger/more fish but it also greatly reduces the chances of encountering other people. I've found some ripper spots
Thats true mate. I tend to do that in the VHC when there are enough people around. I go to the less accessible places.
Bunnings= Pestxpert wasp spray. Up to 6m distance. Stings and Blinds the target same as bear spray. ( self defence only for solo campers ). Thank me later. Cheers 👍
This and fire extinguisher have come up a couple of times. Such good ideas.
Sca aerosol engine degreaser for me😂
Plus smooth coat 30kg shar pei.
Hey thanks for the heads up! I’m off to Bunnings!
This “tips” a laugh 🤣👍🏽
More dangerous to the idiot using it if the wind is blowing in the wrong direction🤦♀️
Let’s face it, 99.9% of people wouldn’t stop to think of that in a panicked situation!
Safer for them to throw the can at them and run 🤭
I have camped all through the Kimberley region without problems ,my favorite spots are around Wolfe Creek ,hope to catch you up this way sometime,
Regards
Mick
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Classic!! 😳😂🤣
😢😮😊😅😂😂😂😂
I've heard this advice .. if you park your caravan overnight somewhere in an isolated place (highway lay-by, bush etc, non caravan park) ... do the following :
Position the caravan so the door is in close proximity to a substantially large tree. That way an undesirable or worse cannot park his vehicle up against the caravan door, trapping you and family inside.
Offender is then at liberty to do anything he likes .. steal wheels or any property, tamper with your vehicle or worse.
Thats a great tip mate
My dog is the best companion, alarm system and deterrent in my kit. I still class it as solo camping 😄
For sure, but it can limit you on where you can go
He’s also your best friend who is always thinking of you.
For sure.
Excellent channel. I’m an elderly solo camper and my solution to people with ‘issues’ is I wired a wireless receiver to all my roof lights and put an alarm siren under the bonnet. If I’m worried I first press the lights to come on. If I’m still concerned I press the siren button. Only used it once so far but it worked extremely well.Subbed
Nice setup! Thanks for sharing
Excellent video with a great collection of tips. Just came across your channel and was very impressed with how you present. You have a great natural style. I’m subscribed now.
Australia seems to have a reputation (mostly overseas) of having everything that will kill you.
It's true that of course we have snakes and spiders but just be careful and they are of little significance.
Obviously, don't swim where there are crocs and don't swim in stinger waters but apart from that it's a very safe country in which to roam about.
I like camping in Oz because we don't have large carnivores.
Yeah, in the worst case scenario you might cop a sting. But nothings going to jump out and eat you.
If I lived in a country with (for example) bears I'd be much more worried about walking or camping in the bush.
I always talk about this to my overseas mates. "everything kills you in Australia..." yeah but they dont eat you whilst you watch
100% agree. Never had an issue with wildlife ever! Feral dogs are a consideration but I'm far more concerned about idiots. Fortunately only had to leave a camping area once because of morons.
I woke up at 3am yesterday with banging and clanging going on, and thought ok who’s robbing me. Turned out to be a huge possum cleaning up the dishes. My tip would be always wash the dishes before bed and always make sure your bin bag is zipped up. Never leave any trace of food out.
U must be a Rookie, hope you've learnt from this experience 😊 !
HAHA always clean up before you go to bed
Had my eskies raided by a juvenile cassowary in the Daintree.
So true about dangerous people in the bush. My mum used to tell me how worried she was about me camping alone in the bush. I would tell her I'm far safer in the bush than I am in the city on a Friday or Saturday night.
Great topic, and sensible advice esp about weapons, Competence and legality are the keys to that issue, best to stay away from trouble if you can, my only add on is to consider an out, that is, if you’re concerned, or there’s a chance of the situation changing, have your car pointed in the direction of the way out, this goes for both wild people, but also Mother Nature issues, fire, flood, storm etc.
Good point mate. I generally do this, but didnt think of it for the video. Ill add it for a follow up video in the future. Thanks mate
Thats a good point.
I usually don't bother unhooking he camper when solo unless I have to. Now you've got me thinking.
Off topic but about the yahoo crowd... camping at Yaegerup dunes WA. The kids and I went to bed. The party crowd kept going. About 1am we were woken by their daughter ( 6ish years old) crying out looking for her mother...
They all gotten samshed and driven off to the beach .. imagine if that girl had gotten lost in bush... luckily my daughter was 9 and sat in the tent with her until they came back about an hour later...
Still shudder over thought that they left the kids to go drunk nught driving.
Bloody hell! That poor kid.
Should’ve got their rego and reported them to DCP
Great video and a great conversation starter. I myself enjoy solo camping. I think the most significant risk for people who are solo camping is being alone with their own thoughts if you know what I mean. And I find the best Music to keep people away is the Bee Gees.😀
HAHAHA yeah Bee Gees!
I hoist my aboriginal flag works wonders keeping undesirables away
@@lukeowen3072 HAHAHA
For that absolute worst case scenario you mention. The Jetstar guy.
Go to Bunnings and get a spray can of wasp spray. In case you camp near an unexpected European Wasp nest.
Delivers an effective, high pressure, 6 metres distance jet stream of nastiness.
It is completely legal to be prepared for wasps in the bush.
Less than $20.
Yeah a couple of people mentioned this. Its such and awesome idea that i certainly havent thought of. Thanks mate
Great video. I just did a weeks solo camping, but I sleep in a van. Mitsubishi 4x4 Express off grid camper.
Nice!
Shane, just crossed your channel. Great work. Good content.. You don't waffle, keep it up mate.
Thanks mate, I appreciate it.
Good on ya mate can't wait to start with my adventures stay safe blessings and cheers thanks for sharing love it
If it doesn’t feel right, pack up and find another spot
Thanks very much - yep spiders and snakes give me the Jeebies …but I’m getting braver every time I go camping by myself, I’m a very mature female, I just love the bush - really appreciate your advice and tips.
Nice one! I love being out there too!
I've done 2 week solo push-bike rides along the Murray. To be honest, you meet all sorts being solo. An in all solo camping I've never had a bad experience with any of them.
Exactly mate.
Fantastic. The great thing about bike packing is you can be very discree wit where you make camp,
especially with a dull coloured tent.'
The o’l extra long Maglight works a treat shines a good light and is heavy duty enough with enough weight behind it to defend your self if needed bonus ya can’t get arrested for having one 😉
And it could probably be used a stand to hold up your car when changing a wheel ;) Super strong lights.
A trick is to walk about and dig some holes and lay a few pieces of toilet paper in them leaving a tail out. Anyone seeing that moves on.
I always take a personal locator beacon (PLB) when solo camping and I do lot of it. It great bit insurance when the SHTF.
Though a bit bulky, I also use an Ozpig when solo camping because it is very efficient (not much time wasted collecting fire wood) keeps me warm and I do all my cooking on it. It is also easy to set up and very easy to get going.
Great video. Very professional.
Thanks mate, I appreciate it. Ive looked at the OZpigs a few times, I cant get my head around the size of it and how to stow it in my setup. I like the idea of it though
Good video after my Army time all these are what I do. Your video also is for couples for a safe free camp.
True that
The Best of Barry Manalow , !
HAHAHA there have been some cracking suggestions. Thats one of them!
Great Video mate, I usually put up a trail cam to watch over my gear when I am away from it (Obviously hidden) never had anything stolen so haven't had to look through it, TIP put it somewhere where you can catch people coming and going
Thats a good tip too thanks mate
Thank you Such a nice, sane and practical approach to life. Cheers
I solo motorcycle camp here in the U.S I bring a product that is a bleed stop for large wounds. Like you said slowing down and being more careful while chopping wood, vegetables etc. I also put bells on my pack while hiking. I carry bear spray and "The Governor " For personal protection. Bears, cougars, and people. I agree though don't allow it in your head. Keep camp picked up and locked up. Happy Camping!🙂
People often say they are worried about snakes and other things that will kill you in Australia. But most things here wont hunt you down and kill you, like what you have.
Good content and very informative for people out there concerned about these points. I myself have travelled remote solo camping throughout all states etc here in our amazing country. When lm a little unsettled in a location very very rare l leave my fire extinguisher close and handy have l ever had to use it NO. and yes you can buy pepper spray in WA
fire extinguisher is an awesome idea! Thanks mate
Great video.. makes me want to solo camp more now :)
Been solo camping for 15 years, only one scary moment. Camped near an apparently abandoned tent surrounded by about 100 pots and pans. When we left I thought I should check all was well. On calling out anyone there? I was answered with leave me alone can’t you see I’m busy. We left very quickly.
There are a few people that live homeless out there and just want to be left alone. Ive come across a few over the years, but they just want to be left alone.
Social media has buggered the high country all these tosses Come up from Melbourne carnt drive on the road they drive on the side of it to see how much damage they can do & it’s not hard to take ya rubbish home or bury ya shit paper 🤷♂️
Youre on the money there mate. I 100% agree. When I see the guys trying to stop the closures of the state forests, all I can think about are those tosses ripping up the bush.
Great video! I solo camp on a bike. I'll generally find an out of the way out of mind/sight campsite. Thoughts always wander for the first night. Never had any major dramas.
I used to solo camp on my triumph tiger. Loved it. But as you say, I always had a quick way out. For some reason, I felt more vulnerable on the bike camps.
I think most blokes with sleep with a weapon next to them when NOT camping. The good old baseball bat for example. Especially if they have a family to protect. We're the ones expected to check bumps in the night.
I lived in a unit about a decade ago, and the couple across the hall from me had their door kicked in and were abducted. They kicked a few more doors, but I had the police on the way. It was a scary night.
If I camp solo, I'm far from anybody. I really get out into the wild. Usually backpack hammock camping. Generally stealthy. Not in a camp site.
When camping with the family, I keep a weapon close at hand. If someone or something messes with my kids.... well, I'm coming out like a mad man.
Never had any negative encounters while camping, aside from young, drunk idiots in 4x4s hooning about. But even they leave you alone. They just mess up your zen.
All the dangerous people are generally too scared to go camping. You're safer in the bush than any town or city.
For all people know, YOU'RE the serial killer waiting for them. Especially when you're camping solo.
Great topic and helpful tips. I've wanted to go solo camping for a while but still haven't done it, not because of the thieves or rowdy people with loud music it's the one nutter that I'm going to run into that I'm scared of.
You have more chance of being taken by a shark in a swimming pool
@@Haveacrack76🤣 I will one day just bite the bullet, pack up and leave for a solo weekend.
@@stavio12 You will have a ball. Don't forget spare batteries for the torch.
@@stavio12 Its worth it
@@colinl9018 extra Bic
Total agree with what you're talking about, I travel the outback most people I come across just want to have a catch up over a billy of tea
100% mate.
I've always camp on my own, usually a bit like yourself and find a nice spot, n sleep in the back of the ute, thanks for sharing your video
Thanks for watching mate
Got a sleeping platform in the back of 200 series. I can easily just jump in the front and drive off if there is any trouble. Always park facing an escape route. Agree probability of trouble is very low.
Sounds good mate. Good to have a bug out plan for sure
Same, in my 90 series. The tarps can just billow behind me as I floor it
Great video, thanks. I try and avoid camping areas that are close enough to big towns. I haven't had any issues with yahoos so far
Same here mate
Great video mate. For me a spare Chainsaw Chain NEW one and good gloves and swing it if needed as a last defence. Fire Extinguisher a bloody good one too. Cheers.
Yeah I just saw another comment on the fire extinguisher. What a ripper idea!
I do solo hiking, luckily I go where there arent many people but you made some good points - widow makers and hypothermia scare me more than any people or animals.
Each location and person will have different considerations. I would argue that solo hiking would have more people paranoid :)
Before I set off, I renew my Aboriginal stickers and get a loud dog from the rescue pound...
I spent a lot of time in the bush I use to swag on the ground then it was in the landcruiser set up but now to many well different types and they are everywhere so no more and that is only my own progression from over the years .totally agree in your advice if you are not comfortable move no worries enjoy
I think Im lucky enough to be so remote, we generally dont get anything like that here. Radar pushes a bit harder when i go on longer trips solo.
Just come across your video 👍🏻 top tips which I’ve taken onboard so thanks 👍🏻 coming from the uk and touring the nt in a 4wd camper we’re very inexperienced on the outback and camping in oz so great tips 👍🏻 bit harsh on abba though there music is iconic……maybe change that comment to nickelback 😂 great video mate 👍🏻 ps you didn’t mention dealing with yowies 😳 and yes your right stop watching videos it’s all in ya head 🤪
New to your channel. You have a nice style and spoke a lot of truth. I like to take the dog with me, but he’s not welcome in national parks and I could imagine in your wild dog scenario he’d likely have made it worse. Look forward to more videos.
Thanks mate, I appreciate it.
When sleeping in a dodgy or remote area, I sleep with a 10" cordless chainsaw beside the bed. If someone actually comes into my off road caravan at night to do me or my wife harm, they may be in trouble. Outside noises I don't care, they can have it.
ABBA's Greatest Hits....awesome, I'll bring the wine, nibbles and dance mat. Sensible video thank you.
I feel comfortable with my heavy baton torch inside the tent with me. I also park facing out ready for quick exit. As a female camper, putting some bright male undies out in full sight on a line somewhere keeps people guessing....
Ahh thats a good idea too.
I've heard a pair of size 12 steel caps on display do a fairly good job for the solo Sheila.
Informative and entertaining!
As a female who solo camps in a small tent personal safety is always at the back of my mind.
But I think women have good reason to feel edgy at times. We are physically not as strong as most blokes therefore being more vulnerable.
I’ve never watched Wolf Creek (and never will!) because it would probably stop me from solo camping/hiking. I think you are right about most people being “good”.
In 20 years of doing this gig I’ve never once felt threatened or been harassed.
Maybe I’m just lucky…
Looking forward to more vids
In QLD one can get a certified rifle box fitted to the vehicle and then engineered for updated compliance. The weapon can't be transported to a National Park, but you may go through it. I think that NT and WA are the same.
Ahh thats interesting, thanks mate
Good tips mate, not much of a camper for all of these reasons.
They are easy enough to get over though
I knew a bloke many years ago that used to travel around with a caravan and he kept an SKK rifle loaded always next to him, he said there were many weirdos out there, (of which he was one) we thought he was the backpacker murderer until Ivan was caught.
I had an SKK when I was younger. Sadly, no more.
@@Haveacrack76 yes me too, he was the reason I bought one.
Mental health and drug use are more prevalent these days.Setting up camp one evening, i encountered an over friendly anoying female that after about 15 mins had a male backup suspicous character suddenly appear. i left the capsite and went further up the road. Remaining friendly and courtious averted trouble.
Good call I reckon mate
My camping involves traveling light, a 50 pound recurve bow and my old man's kabar, I like to go off by myself and pretend I'm the only bastard in the bush. Love it, never had much trouble with people that way.
Ive never had issues either. 50 lbs recurve would keep you honest though. Nice
I like the wireless security called Winchester
Not bluetooth?
@@Haveacrack76 or the cordless hole puncher
I have Tyson, not Mike, but a 60kg BullMastiff that can hear a sound that is not normal from about 2 klms away.
He can’t punch like mike , but can knock you over with his hip flicks, and then sit on you
That will do for the security
@@rockbiterhd I always take mine with me. Has the ability to punch 9 at a time.
@nicholaswirth1011
With twin barrels too, if needed.
Our Doberman is our front line early warning-deterrent, nothing and no one comes near camp without her going feral (day or night).
Good point, but we can’t take our dogs everywhere
@@Haveacrack76 Which sucks. They let feral humans in national parks but not dogs, 99% of are better behaved than the ferals.
@@colinl9018 You will get no argument from me mate
Same with my pair of Kelpie, and a Kelpie Cattle. Best not come causing problems.
Sux good people are limited just because of dogs when there's so many grubs without dogs
Cool ep and great chat and funny,
Thanks mate
Can I suggest being aware of where you camp. 28 years ago, we were travelling along Newell Highway and got really tired. Those days, there were no wiki camps, so we pulled up at a farmers' gate. Stupid us it was Saturday night and at 2 am the boys were coming home from the pub so they thought it was a good idea to terrorise us till my late husband decided to wind down the window a little bit and inform them they were scaring children. They stopped, but we were done with sleep. That is the only instant I have had trouble. I solo camp now for 10 years, and still no issues. I do pack my gear away and lock doors before bed and lock up doors. I also leave my jockey wheel up and back my rear car tyres on ramps to level up, so if I need to take off in a hurry, the only thing to leave behind is the orange ramps.
Sounds smart mate
In the ninetees, my ex and i were camping just off a highway a ways. It was late, and we heard a vehicle stop some distance away. We didn't think anything of it. A while later, suddenly, something leapt onto our roo bar and started bouncing up and down, shaking the whole campervan. We were terrified. Then it stopped, but we didn't hear anything more. Not even.footsteps. Needless to say, we didn't sleep all night.
Fark that
Ohh wow sounds bloody so funny but hell that would have been friggin scary
Especially if that touch is a flame thrower. I'm in USA so most places I have a firearm in places not allowed I have a repeating cross-bow
You forgot to mention Yowie's.
DAMMIT!
Nah mate! There's no Yowies left! The Bunyips and drop bears gottum all😊
solo camped in a dozen countries, hate paid camp sites, all those city slickers cramped together
horses kill more in Au than snakes, sharks crocs and spiders together 10 a year,
shotgun is pretty useful
I havent heard that about horses, but I think its probably accurate.
Never never ever watch a Wolf Creek movie or google Mick Taylor.
HAHAHA
I like to set up a perimeter of tripwires when solo camping
Well done said explained that is it
Thanks mate
Never had a problem so far been doing it for fourth years.But I always carry the big eyes ya just never know
Cheers mate
Opera music should do it play a high pitched soprano
My sister who is in WA carries pepper spray. She works at a late night pharmacy. I guess it is legal there. Great info here thanks for the video.
It is legal. My daughter in law is a nurse and carries it during night shifts getting to carparks etc.
Thanks guys. Seems only in WA
You mentioned widow makers but forgot Drop Bears! Especially the ones with a can of Bundy Rum in their claw...........they are mainly attracted to blonds i believe..or so the rumour goes..
Up on the Murray the hoop snakes keep them at bay
Carry a knife for sure, 3 rocks- fair size and a stick, a nice hardwood stick, known as a nulla nulla in Aboriginal way. All 3 can become very handy.
A bow for distance 😊
Bloody hell mate! Thats a lot
There are way more Mick Taylor’s in the city’s….
True mate.
I just use the location share feature on iPhone to permanently share my location with my mate so he can see where I am anywhere anytime
Perfect
l was gunna camp at a spot but there was lots of empty bullet shells . so l decided this is not a good spot..
Having lived in a war zone in Southern Africa for years, carrying a firearm was a part of normal life . Same goes to say regarding the fear factor . Australia is risk averse and living here I noticed people don’t like taking risks . My dog 🐕 travels with me and he is a good early warning system. Always carry a deterrent aswell. The biggest risk I guess is falling branches you mentioned and the wildlife.
Thanks mate. Good insights
I agree falling branches are the thing to be most concerned about.
Now I want to go camping 🏕️
Nice rig.
I am an ex-soldier like you , but from the 70-80's era, 12 years worth, and I agree with you, but we did have an incident in the mid 80's on an Around OZ trip, that if I didn't have a 22 semi auto, we wouldn't be here today, it happened in the Kimberley region. I am not going to say it wouldn't happen today, but am pretty sure people are not roaming around with 303's intentionally wanting to murder people and steal their money and wares in 2024. Sure JetStar man is the exception, but he is not the rule. So I travel virtually unarmed today, and do many solo trips, by bicycle, motorbike and car always with my dog, and he is my alarm, and I am very aware of his capabilities. I/we have had virtually no trouble whatsoever since that incident in 85' , that was just a one off in my 65 years, that I am glad I was very capable of dealing with that person at the time. So yeah we feel safe camping anywhere today in OZ.
Close call mate. I agree with your thoughts on now vs then 100%
Watch out for the button man!
HAHAHA
ABBA's greatest hits😂😂😂😂
AHAHAHA
What about a Yowie attack in the middle of the night.
I am very proficient in handling my GSD 😅
She's the only deterrent I need.
Same! Haha
Yes, but you cant take them everywhere.
Mask, Snorkel.... spear gun. Great vid!!
HAHA yes true!
I feel the safest I can be in the bush. I’m amongst friends like the trees and every living thing that comes to visit me….accept bogans.
HAHA boguns. That was the term I was looking for when filming this.
Yes pepper spray in WA
Thanks mate
I bet you miss the steyr Aug 5.56 tho. I do 🇮🇪 🇦🇺 . On ya , whuroo
HAHA yep
The drop bear explosion is out of control
The hoop snakes keep them under control on the murray ;)
Be careful of the hairy man at night.
What advice would you have given the victims that lost there lives in the high country then?
If weapons are frowned upon
Great channel only started watching and will keep watching
Regards Marc
I suspect what happened there is an escalation that could have been avoided. Its only a feeling, I wasn't there. Its hard for us to understand what happened. The outcome of the trial certainly suggests it could have been avoided.
A dog, will know someone is there before you do and will highly likely make them change their mind
True, but they cant go everywhere
Always have a bug out plan.
I should have covered this but didnt. I always do it, its second nature. But forgot in this video
Mr 30-30 keeps me safe.
Rule 3030 😉
@@Haveacrack76
Almost Rule 303 😆
That’s against the policy of the Police State ,
Fire/burns are also a real risk. Ask me how i know...😅
True mate
You forgot one specific group of people. These days a group of people whether it be 2, 3 or more have a specific agenda. That is to overwhelm
you and either harm you, take your car or your belongings or do whatever they like.
This behaviour is becoming more regular than most people think. Just saying......
I still think they are far and few between. Also only in certain areas. Ive never heard of anything like that happening to anybody in a campsite, more in the cities.
@@Haveacrack76 That’s exactly the reason to get out in the bush. The more remote or difficult the place is to get too, the less chance such type of people will travel there. My experience is dickheads and yobos only ever turn up at places where you can easily drive a car.
Unless your camping in your BMW they won't come near you.
Wasp spray
Another good idea. Good 5 meters or so stream. Some good ideas in the comments here
I was murdered last time I went bush.
Glad you survived long enough to comment ;)
you to, im still recovering, just one more beer and im off
No where is dangerous unless you put yourself in a situation you are not capable of surviving in by lying to yourself thinking that will keep you safe but if ya killed you won't have too much time to worry about it 😅
100%
If you're licenced to carry a firearm, then do so.
I suspect it depends on the licence. I know with my class D, I cant take them off farm.
No one, and I mean NO ONE, who has a normal firearm licence, is licenced for self-defense.
Read your licence ... it states what the firearm can LEGALLY be used for.
So much gear to just go camping gesh
Camping and working
At least it isnt the U S you go camping with mr smith and mr wesson
We are no the US. Socially very different.
Nice philosophies. A little different if you are a woman.
Checking in from USA. Good, good advice. And, but, that the unarmed thief might be emboldened having heard only a feminine voice. Big dog time.
yep true. But we cant take dogs everywhere. Not in national parks.