Essential Gear for Off-Grid Camping in Australia: What You Actually Need (and What You Don't

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of off-grid camping in Australia — waking up to a desert sunrise, camping under the stars, and escaping the hustle for wide open spaces. But with limited space in your 4WD or caravan, packing the right gear is critical. Bring too much, and you’ll be weighed down. Bring too little, and your trip could turn stressful fast.

At Campalot, we’ve been there — and we’ve learned what’s worth the space, and what’s not. Here’s our practical guide to the gear you actually need for successful off-grid adventures across Australia.

Off-grid set-up

✅ Essential Gear for Off-Grid Camping

When you’re heading into the bush, these are your non-negotiables — the items that keep you safe, comfortable, and self-sufficient.

💧 Water Storage

Reliable drinking water is your #1 priority. Depending on your trip length and location, you may need 60L–200L or more.

Portable water bladders are a popular choice among experienced campers. These flexible containers can hold large volumes of water while taking up minimal space when empty. Look for heavy-duty options designed to withstand the rigours of off-road travel.

For longer trips, consider a combination of fixed water tanks and portable containers. This setup provides a reliable base supply while allowing for easy refills at water sources you encounter along the way.

Water Bladder purpose-built for 4WD rear seat footwells

Always factor in extra water for emergencies and unexpected delays. A good rule of thumb is to carry at least 5 litres per person per day for drinking and cooking, plus additional water for washing and other uses.

🔋 Portable Power

Keeping your devices charged and appliances running is essential for comfort and safety when camping off-grid. Power stations or high-capacity power banks have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and ease of use.

Look for power stations with multiple output options, including 12V, USB, and 240V AC. This gives you the freedom to run fridges, lights, phones, Starlink, and more. Solar-compatible models are particularly useful for extended trips, allowing you to recharge using the abundant Australian sunshine.

Some models even come with app connectivity so you can monitor charging rates, usage, and battery life directly from your phone. Others double as jump starters — a lifesaver if your starter battery fails off-grid.

🔥 Cooking & Meals

Preparing meals in the great outdoors requires some planning and the right equipment. A reliable cooking setup can turn a good camping trip into a great one.

Portable gas stoves are a top choice for their convenience and reliability. Look for models that are compatible with readily available gas canisters. For longer trips or group cooking, a barbeque, firepit or dual-fuel stove might be more practical.

When it comes to cookware, less is often more. A good quality frying pan, a pot with a lid, and a kettle cover most cooking needs. Opt for lightweight, durable materials like stainless steel or titanium.

Don't forget essential utensils, plates, and cups. Collapsible or nesting designs can save valuable space in your packing. Always include a sharp knife, cutting board, and basic seasonings to elevate your camp cooking.

🎒 Smart Packing for Your Adventures

Efficient packing is crucial when preparing for a 4WD camping trip. These techniques help maximise your space and highlight versatile gear that serves multiple purposes — helping you pack smarter, not harder.

🚫 Common Items People Bring (But Rarely Use)

Overpacking is a common rookie mistake. Here are a few things you can probably leave behind:

• Giant multi-piece cookware sets – One good frypan and pot is usually enough
• Too many clothes – You’ll live in the same couple of outfits
• Non-portable generators – Bulky, noisy, and often unnecessary with modern power stations
• Complex gadgets – If it takes too long to set up, you’ll probably skip it

Stick to gear that’s fast, functional, and space-efficient.

🌐 Staying Connected with Remote Tech

Gone are the days of being totally off the grid. With gear like Starlink, you can access fast internet even in remote deserts or outback tracks — perfect for work, planning, or staying in touch.

Other essentials include:

• 📡 UHF radios for convoy comms and emergencies
• 🧭 GPS or offline mapping apps to avoid getting lost
• 🔌 12V chargers and inverter systems to keep all your tech powered

Starlink Bull Bar mount

💡 Tips to Save Space & Weight

Space and payload matter. Here are a few tricks to lighten the load:

• Choose multi-use gear (e.g. a table that doubles as prep space and eating area)
• Swap rigid containers for foldable water tanks or bags
• Use stackable tubs or crates to organise camp gear
• Bring pre-prepped meals for the first day or two
• Store frequently used items within easy reach — it saves time and frustration

🛒 Campalot’s Top Picks for Off-Grid Trips

To wrap it up, here are some go-to products we recommend for any self-sufficient Aussie camping trip:

✔️ 110L Water Bladder – Heavy-duty, Aussie-made, fits behind seats

✔️ Portable Power Station – Rechargeable via solar, car, or 240V

✔️ Starlink Mount Kit – Stay connected from the middle of nowhere

✔️ LED Lighting Kit – Efficient, long-lasting, and camp-ready

✔️ Gas Water Heater with 12V Pump – Compact and perfect for a quick rinse on the road

Off-grid set-up

🏁 Final Word

Off-grid camping is about freedom — but the right gear can make the difference between a smooth trip and a rough one. Focus on essentials, pack smart, and choose gear that’s made for Australia’s harsh and beautiful terrain.

👉 Explore our full off-grid camping range at Campalot.com.au and gear up for your next remote adventure.