I'm planning on starting the solo trip thingy early this year (2018) and I am interested to know what type of rigs other solo nomads have.
I want to travel to places such as corner country, NSW, the Darling River run, the Flinders Ranges, the Oodnadatta or Birdsville tracks and so on. All of these areas have roads which could be classed as good to obnoxious depending on when they have been graded... and some (many?) will have corrugations.
Because I won't really know what road conditions will be like until I get there, I'm thinking 4WD but should it be a campervan, a slide on, a (small) motorhome or should I tow a small single axle caravan? I'm not interested in a campertrailer.
I'd be interested in feedback from solos as to what you would recommend, and why.
On another matter, I shall be travelling with a small white dog. Three questions arise: 1 As a solo, what do you do with your dog when you want to go shopping? 2 What is the liklehood of one of the raptors, particularly eagles, deciding that my dog would make a good meal? and 3 If the likelehood is great, what's the best way to protect him?
Thanks in advance for all your help,
Tony the bushranger
Aus-Kiwi said
01:06 PM Jan 1, 2018
Although I have a 8m motorhome . The likes where you want to go . A GOOD camper trailer seem to me a good budget option if your towing anything ., Found they seem very popular in northern parts of Aust where itās warmer. They are light and can take the rough conditions . If you purchase the right one .
bushranger said
02:26 PM Jan 1, 2018
Thanks Guru, I agree with most of your comments but the reason I don't want a camper trailer is that they are made mainly of canvas. As I plan camping in the winter months and in the deserts, they're not going to offer me as much insulation as anything else. I know I need to use thermals and so on but unfortunately I have a health problem which makes me feel the cold therefore I need as little canvas as possible.
bushranger
brickies said
03:26 PM Jan 1, 2018
Bushranger i agree with what your saying , We hire a motor home for 30 days in New Zealand and come home and brought a caravan , If you are going to be on the road for long time it is handy to have a camp to come and go from , Most places you can get to with a caravan ,And the odd places you can't leave your caravan at a safe place and drive in and camp for one or two night , Nothing like having some comfort when not on the move I would rather stay home then have to setup a camper trailer every time you made camp.
Possum3 said
04:04 PM Jan 1, 2018
Re caravan;
Whatever van you choose ensure you obtain an accurate Weighbridge Tare also ensure your choice can comply with Caravan Council Compliance checklist www.caravancouncil.com.au/compliance
I would prefer a dual axle model for better road control on heavy van, with leaf springs.
Regarding Tow vehicle - be aware of GCM of your vehicles including occupants and all your gear. All Jurisdictions are now doing roadside weight compliance testing
Go into it with eyes open and ensure your Dealer is reputable. Follow the guidelines and you will get a good unit.
Re Furry mate: Be aware that there are many areas in the country that you intend visiting that there are 10-80 Poison baits laid to eradicate wild dogs - Most areas are signposted with warnings but some landholders do not comply with regulations - so keep your dog on a lead at all times out of the vehicle/s.
Wedge Tailed Eagles will take a small dog if they spy him without you being near so again, keep him on a lead
Look forward to meeting you out there.
Possum.
msg said
04:38 PM Jan 1, 2018
I purchased my Ford Transit van for the purpose of travelling around the Channel country. It had to be able to travel bush tracks into opal mines. Not get bogged in bulldust, or dry creek beads etc. The transit vans have a higher clearance than some of the others. Its also rear wheel drive. I have been going out that way for about seven years and I have never had a problem.
I did take it to Birdsville and it managed it without issue. Better in fact than the 4x4 I was travelling with. They had two punctures. The stones are very sharp. I think it was the light truck tyres that made the difference. Its not real keen going through sand but OK if you keep it steady and under power.
I also have a small fluffy fawn pooch. (Chihuahua) I should imagine it looks like a rabbit from up above. There are eagles everywhere out there. As possum said, Just keep it on a lead likewise for the baits.
Happy Travelling.
bushranger said
09:34 PM Jan 1, 2018
Hey msg,
You wrote that you thought the light truck tyres made the difference. Did you mean that the light truck tyres made the difference and did get punctures or did not get punctures?
Peter_n_Margaret said
10:37 PM Jan 1, 2018
In your position I would get a Toyota Landcruiser Troopy camper.
If the budget is tight, look out for an ex hire KEA. They will go anywhere you might want to go with confidence.
They are tough and reliable and there are lots in the bush, so servicing and parts are no issue.
Cheers,
Peter
msg said
11:44 PM Jan 1, 2018
Bushranger, I really don't know. It was a bit tongue in cheek. I didn't get any punctures. Just amazed at the 4x4's lined up for new tyres in Birdsville and my little truck came through OK.
Peter & Margaret, Troopy's are great. especially the ones with a KEA fitout. Would probably handle the rougher tracks better than my KEA Freedom. But, I wanted the creature comforts of a motorhome without the size. I guess it depends on where you want to go most of the time and how much roughing it you want to do. I travel long distances and therefore 10ltrs/100ks fuel usage was a bonus also.
bushranger said
09:46 AM Jan 2, 2018
Sorry msg, I wan't terribly clear with my previous question. I meant to ask if you were running on the light truck tyres or if it was the 4x4 on the light truck tyres.
jules47 said
09:41 PM Jan 3, 2018
msg has light truck tyres on her Transit
msg said
10:21 PM Jan 3, 2018
How do you know that Jules? Miss you. Hope to catch up in the new year.
Yes she's right.
jules47 said
10:40 AM Jan 4, 2018
Ha ha Mel - I remember you told me when you got new tyres! And hope to catch up with you in the new year as well.
readysetgo said
07:01 AM Jan 9, 2018
Hi Tony
I purchased a Toyota Hilux 4x4 slide on camper which had reliably travelled to many isolated places including the Simpson desert and Canning Stock Route with its previous owners. Mechanically it was in great shape so a good service and a few minor jobs attended to and it was makeover time. The important items: I installed a water tank with internal pump, mains pressure access to the kitchen, replaced the pop top for weatherproofing and additional ventilation and added electric struts to raise the top (so grateful for those). Checking the wiring and the batteries before heading out was a literally a lifesaver. I also replaced and added appropriate 12v points, purchased additional solar, replaced all batteries and tyres. I have a permanent bed made up and a comfy mattress which supports a good nights sleep after watching the stars by the campfire. The best part is it takes a short time to set up in bad weather and no old canvas to get wet and smelly unlike my previous camper-trailer.
All in all I love my choice of rig although it was not my first choice when looking but very pleased I settled on this over a c/van or small motor home as I now enjoy off-road trips and camping in remote settings with comfort and safety.
Best wishes with your choice and travel.
JR
bushranger said
10:06 AM Jan 9, 2018
Hey JR,
Thanks for your great input.
I like the idea of slide on campers but the two things that put me off are the (apparent) small interior space and the bed over cab arrangement. I have been known to get up during the night and I don't fancy a fall down the steps so I have steered clear of slide ons. But I am willing to have my mind changed.
However, I note that you "... have a permanent bed made up..." so I have to ask... Is it over the cab or somewhere in the living area?
Tony
Peter_n_Margaret said
10:20 AM Jan 9, 2018
Be very careful with slide-ons (we owned one for 12 years), particularly on smaller vehicles.
Many are overweight. A "built-on" camper/motorhome will generally be lighter, stronger and have a lower centre of gravity.
A bed over cab releases a lot of extra living space that is otherwise used only at night to sleep in.
Cheers,
Peter
bushranger said
11:14 AM Jan 9, 2018
Hello Peter,
Thank you for your input.
Boy, am I glad I asked the question.
So much to learn, so little time.
Aus-Kiwi said
01:30 PM Jan 9, 2018
There are light trucks out there which can be driven on car licence . Easy to drive too .
readysetgo said
11:04 PM Jan 16, 2018
Hi Tony
Thanks Peter you made me realise I need to clarify.
I should have been more specific so my apologies Tony. I have a Toyota hilux Talvor Adventure Camper built on to the chassis thus doesnt have the capacity to be removed or slid off like some and the truck driven away. I have used the term slide-on because that is the way people seem to be describe it mostly.
It has a rear door and I turned the bed on top of the cab into king single so it is only partly extended and I sleep the width instead of length. It works for me well at 56. This allowed the kitchen bench to be extended and a Microwave added to the opposite side which I can use as a side table at night. The Reno inside also included building in a bench seat below the bed which serves as storage seat and most importantly a step up to and from the bed. In addition I use a portable step on the floor at night with fluorescent tape positioned well so the step down from bed to floor is in two stages and easier to negotiate and see in the dark Which is also used outside during the day. I made changes to incorporate a hidden porta-loo within one seat so at night the table slides across over the opposite seat and the seat is opened to make the toilet easily accessible.
I do love my camper but I will be open to change when I no longer plan to go off road in the future. The new modern campers likely offer many more features however this older model was affordable, looks great after paint and modifications and serves me very well. It doesnt take long to set up or put down.
i trust that is more helpful. Best wishes with choice and travel.
JR
HunnyBunny said
03:51 PM Jan 25, 2018
I have a F250 with a slide on camper, my camper is full size so it restricts me a bit because of the height, but it has always taken me where I want to go. I do a lot of free camping, it has taken me to the Alice & surrounds with no worries.
-- Edited by HunnyBunny on Thursday 25th of January 2018 03:55:08 PM
Hey everyone,
I'm planning on starting the solo trip thingy early this year (2018) and I am interested to know what type of rigs other solo nomads have.
I want to travel to places such as corner country, NSW, the Darling River run, the Flinders Ranges, the Oodnadatta or Birdsville tracks and so on. All of these areas have roads which could be classed as good to obnoxious depending on when they have been graded... and some (many?) will have corrugations.
Because I won't really know what road conditions will be like until I get there, I'm thinking 4WD but should it be a campervan, a slide on, a (small) motorhome or should I tow a small single axle caravan? I'm not interested in a campertrailer.
I'd be interested in feedback from solos as to what you would recommend, and why.
On another matter, I shall be travelling with a small white dog. Three questions arise: 1 As a solo, what do you do with your dog when you want to go shopping? 2 What is the liklehood of one of the raptors, particularly eagles, deciding that my dog would make a good meal? and 3 If the likelehood is great, what's the best way to protect him?
Thanks in advance for all your help,
Tony the bushranger
bushranger
Whatever van you choose ensure you obtain an accurate Weighbridge Tare also ensure your choice can comply with Caravan Council Compliance checklist www.caravancouncil.com.au/compliance
I would prefer a dual axle model for better road control on heavy van, with leaf springs.
Regarding Tow vehicle - be aware of GCM of your vehicles including occupants and all your gear. All Jurisdictions are now doing roadside weight compliance testing
Go into it with eyes open and ensure your Dealer is reputable. Follow the guidelines and you will get a good unit.
Re Furry mate: Be aware that there are many areas in the country that you intend visiting that there are 10-80 Poison baits laid to eradicate wild dogs - Most areas are signposted with warnings but some landholders do not comply with regulations - so keep your dog on a lead at all times out of the vehicle/s.
Wedge Tailed Eagles will take a small dog if they spy him without you being near so again, keep him on a lead
Look forward to meeting you out there.
Possum.
I did take it to Birdsville and it managed it without issue. Better in fact than the 4x4 I was travelling with. They had two punctures. The stones are very sharp. I think it was the light truck tyres that made the difference. Its not real keen going through sand but OK if you keep it steady and under power.
I also have a small fluffy fawn pooch. (Chihuahua) I should imagine it looks like a rabbit from up above. There are eagles everywhere out there. As possum said, Just keep it on a lead likewise for the baits.
Happy Travelling.
You wrote that you thought the light truck tyres made the difference. Did you mean that the light truck tyres made the difference and did get punctures or did not get punctures?
If the budget is tight, look out for an ex hire KEA. They will go anywhere you might want to go with confidence.
They are tough and reliable and there are lots in the bush, so servicing and parts are no issue.
Cheers,
Peter
Peter & Margaret, Troopy's are great. especially the ones with a KEA fitout. Would probably handle the rougher tracks better than my KEA Freedom. But, I wanted the creature comforts of a motorhome without the size. I guess it depends on where you want to go most of the time and how much roughing it you want to do. I travel long distances and therefore 10ltrs/100ks fuel usage was a bonus also.
Yes she's right.
I purchased a Toyota Hilux 4x4 slide on camper which had reliably travelled to many isolated places including the Simpson desert and Canning Stock Route with its previous owners. Mechanically it was in great shape so a good service and a few minor jobs attended to and it was makeover time. The important items: I installed a water tank with internal pump, mains pressure access to the kitchen, replaced the pop top for weatherproofing and additional ventilation and added electric struts to raise the top (so grateful for those). Checking the wiring and the batteries before heading out was a literally a lifesaver. I also replaced and added appropriate 12v points, purchased additional solar, replaced all batteries and tyres. I have a permanent bed made up and a comfy mattress which supports a good nights sleep after watching the stars by the campfire. The best part is it takes a short time to set up in bad weather and no old canvas to get wet and smelly unlike my previous camper-trailer.
All in all I love my choice of rig although it was not my first choice when looking but very pleased I settled on this over a c/van or small motor home as I now enjoy off-road trips and camping in remote settings with comfort and safety.
Best wishes with your choice and travel.
JR
Thanks for your great input.
I like the idea of slide on campers but the two things that put me off are the (apparent) small interior space and the bed over cab arrangement. I have been known to get up during the night and I don't fancy a fall down the steps so I have steered clear of slide ons. But I am willing to have my mind changed.
However, I note that you "... have a permanent bed made up..." so I have to ask... Is it over the cab or somewhere in the living area?
Tony
Many are overweight. A "built-on" camper/motorhome will generally be lighter, stronger and have a lower centre of gravity.
A bed over cab releases a lot of extra living space that is otherwise used only at night to sleep in.
Cheers,
Peter
Thank you for your input.
Boy, am I glad I asked the question.
So much to learn, so little time.
Hi Tony
Thanks Peter you made me realise I need to clarify.
I should have been more specific so my apologies Tony. I have a Toyota hilux Talvor Adventure Camper built on to the chassis thus doesnt have the capacity to be removed or slid off like some and the truck driven away. I have used the term slide-on because that is the way people seem to be describe it mostly.
It has a rear door and I turned the bed on top of the cab into king single so it is only partly extended and I sleep the width instead of length. It works for me well at 56. This allowed the kitchen bench to be extended and a Microwave added to the opposite side which I can use as a side table at night. The Reno inside also included building in a bench seat below the bed which serves as storage seat and most importantly a step up to and from the bed. In addition I use a portable step on the floor at night with fluorescent tape positioned well so the step down from bed to floor is in two stages and easier to negotiate and see in the dark Which is also used outside during the day. I made changes to incorporate a hidden porta-loo within one seat so at night the table slides across over the opposite seat and the seat is opened to make the toilet easily accessible.
I do love my camper but I will be open to change when I no longer plan to go off road in the future. The new modern campers likely offer many more features however this older model was affordable, looks great after paint and modifications and serves me very well. It doesnt take long to set up or put down.
i trust that is more helpful. Best wishes with choice and travel.
JR
I have a F250 with a slide on camper, my camper is full size so it restricts me a bit because of the height, but it has always taken me where I want to go. I do a lot of free camping, it has taken me to the Alice & surrounds with no worries.
-- Edited by HunnyBunny on Thursday 25th of January 2018 03:55:08 PM
Hi HunnyBunny,
Thanks for the input.
Do you find the camper section leans a bit (too much) when going around corners?
How do you compensate for that, apart from driving carefully...