Driving Across the Nullarbor: Tips for Long Stretches

Driving across the Nullarbor is one of the most iconic road trips in Australia. We recently completed this journey, and we’d love to share some tips and insights that can help manage the long, isolated stretches of road. If you’re planning this trip, you might find this information valuable.

Understanding the Nullarbor

The Nullarbor Plain extends approximately 1,200 kilometers between Norseman in Western Australia and Ceduna in South Australia. It’s part of the Eyre Highway and serves as a key artery connecting the east and west coasts of Australia. This stretch is renowned for its vast, treeless plain, and the longest straight road in Australia, spanning 146.6 km (91 miles). For more precise route details, you can check out this Google Maps link.

Preparation Before the Trip

Proper preparation is crucial before embarking on a drive across the Nullarbor. Here’s a checklist we found helpful:

1. Vehicle Check: Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. We carried out routine maintenance, checked tire pressure, engine oil levels, and ensured we had a spare tire and a basic toolkit.
2. Fuel Planning: Fuel stops can be sparse. The longest distance between fuel stations is approximately 190 km (118 miles) between Caiguna and Balladonia. Keep your tank topped off to avoid running out of fuel.
3. Supplies: We packed plenty of water, non-perishable food items, and a first-aid kit.
4. Accommodation: Booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is advisable.

Handling Long, Isolated Stretches

Driving along the vast Nullarbor can be daunting due to its isolation and monotony. Here are some practical strategies we employed:

• Shared Driving Duties: We took turns driving to prevent fatigue.
• Regular Breaks: Stopping every few hours at roadside rest areas for a brief walk and refreshments helped avoid driver fatigue.
• Entertainment: We downloaded audiobooks and curated music playlists to keep us entertained during long hours on the road.

Wildlife Awareness

The roadways across the Nullarbor are frequented by wildlife, particularly during dusk and dawn. We remained vigilant for animals such as kangaroos, emus, and camels, reducing speed during these times and driving cautiously to avoid collisions.

Points of Interest

While driving across the Nullarbor, there are several interesting stops to consider:

• The Nullarbor Links: The world’s longest golf course, stretching 1,365 km (848 miles) from Kalgoorlie to Ceduna.
• Head of Bight: A great spot for whale watching between May and October.
• Eucla Telegraph Station: A historic site partially buried in sand dunes.

For specific locations, you can view this Google Maps overview.

In conclusion, driving across the Nullarbor is a unique experience that requires careful planning and consideration. By following these tips, we managed the journey safely and enjoyed the stark beauty of Australia’s vast landscapes.