Planning a trip to Northern WA? Whether you’re road-tripping to Exmouth, Coral Bay, Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, or Shark Bay, a little prep makes all the difference. Distances are long, accommodation fills fast, and conditions are very different to city travel. Use this checklist to get organised before you go.
🚗 1. Get Your Vehicle Ready
Northern WA is remote. Your car (or caravan setup) needs to be reliable.
✔ Check tyres (including the spare)
✔ Top up oil, coolant, brake fluid
✔ Test battery & lights
✔ Inspect towing gear if hauling a van or trailer
✔ Carry a basic tool kit + jumper leads
🏨 2. Lock In Accommodation & Tours Early
Peak season = limited availability.
✔ Book caravan parks, campsites, or hotels ahead
✔ Reserve reef tours, whale shark swims, gorge walks, etc.
✔ Save confirmations offline
⛽ 3. Plan Fuel, Food & Water Stops
Some roads have long stretches with nothing in between.
✔ Map your fuel stops
✔ Carry extra drinking water
✔ Pack snacks & easy meals
✔ Don’t rely on just one roadhouse
👕 4. Pack for the Climate
Warm days, cool nights, strong sun.
✔ Light layers + warm jumper
✔ Swimmers & reef shoes
✔ Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
✔ Comfortable walking shoes
📱 5. Download & Go Offline
Reception drops out fast outside towns.
✔ Download offline maps
✔ Save bookings, tour info & contacts
✔ Carry a power bank / car charger
🩹 6. Safety & Essentials Kit
Be prepared, not panicked.
✔ First aid kit
✔ Torch or headlamp
✔ Insect repellent
✔ Sunscreen & lip balm
✔ Extra water & wet wipes
📸 7. Bring the Fun Stuff
You’ll want to remember this trip.
✔ Camera / phone storage space
✔ Snorkel gear
✔ Dry bag / phone pouch
✔ Journal or notes app
🧭 8. Leave Room for Flexibility
Not everything needs to be booked by the minute.
✔ Allow time for unplanned stops
✔ Explore local cafés, lookouts & beaches
✔ Don’t rush the magic
🌞 Final Thought
Northern WA is one of the most beautiful parts of the country — but it rewards preparation. When your car’s ready, your bookings are locked in, and your bags are packed right, you get to enjoy what really matters: sunshine, red dirt roads, turquoise water, and the freedom of the north.
