OFF THE GRID

SETTING UP YOUR 4X4 FOR EXTENDED OFFGRID, REMOTE-AREA TRAVEL INVOLVES CAREFUL PLANNING AND PREPARATION TO ENSURE YOU ARE SELF-SUFFICIENT, SAFE, AND ABLE TO HANDLE THE UNEXPECTED

- GLENN MARSHALL

EMBARKING on a remote tour in Australia and staying off-grid for any extended amount of time can be the adventure of a lifetime. The Australian outback, with its vast landscapes, rugged terrain and remote beauty, offers an unparalleled experience. However, extended off-grid adventure comes with its challenges, requiring thorough preparation and modifications to your vehicle.

The cornerstone of a successful extended remote touring experience lies in a well-prepared vehicle; a 4x4 suited to travelling in the Australian outback is one that must be reliable, durable and capable of handling harsh conditions.

Here is what I have learned over 25 years when it comes to setting up a vehicle for such an endeavour.

FUEL RANGE

IF the fuel capacity and range of your 4x4 is less than 1000km, carrying extra fuel will be necessary. One of the reasons I purchased a Toyota Prado was its standard twin 90L fuel tanks. I also carry enough 20L jerry cans to give me a range of more than 1200km, so I can travel long distances off road without having to worry about running out of fuel.

The best way to improve your vehicle's fuel-carrying capacity is to instal an aftermarket auxiliary tank, or replace your existing fuel tank with a larger capacity aftermarket fuel tank. The major players for aftermarket fuel tanks are ARB, Long Ranger and Brown Davis, but they don't necessarily manufacture tanks to suit all vehicles.