10 Tips for Camping in the Great Outdoors of Queensland Australia | Budget Car Rental

Queensland is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Australia. Think: the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, rugged mountains, and wide-open desert outback. It’s the perfect backdrop for a camping trip, but before you grab your tent and head off-grid, here are some tried and tested hiking and camping safety tips to help you make the most of your Queensland adventure.

 

10 Tips for Staying Safe While Camping and Hiking in the Great Outdoors of Queensland

 

1. Check conditions before you go

Always check the latest weather, alerts, and park access info via the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service before you leave. Roads and trails can close quickly, especially during wet season or bushfire alerts.

 

2. Reserve your campsite properly

When you find your campsite, reserve it online at Queensland’s camping website. It’s best to plan ahead — many national parks require pre-booked permits.

 

3. Hire a 4×4 vehicle

For the best access to remote trails and campsites, a 4x4 rental is the way to go. Many national parks are only accessible via unsealed roads or sandy tracks. Budget offers 4x4 hire in Queensland through several of our locations — so you can travel further, safer, and with everything you need in the boot.

 

4. Choose the camping style that suits you

Queensland’s got it all — from beach camping and bush retreats to glamping and eco-resorts. If roughing it isn’t your thing, you’ll find plenty of car-accessible stays or local accommodations nearby.

 

5. Be prepared — especially for hikes

Bring maps, plenty of water, food, first-aid, and charged devices. It’s also smart to leave your itinerary with someone back home. Whether you’re walking or driving, especially in remote areas, this is a must. These are some of the most practical hiking and camping safety tips for Queensland’s diverse terrain.

 

6. Respect the environment

The old saying goes: “Take only pictures, leave only footprints.” That means no feeding the wildlife, no removing plants or rocks, and definitely no littering. Queensland’s natural spaces rely on visitors to do their part.

 

7. Know your limits on trails

Before you set off on a hike, check the trail grade and don’t overestimate your fitness level. Queensland’s creeks and river crossings can also be tricky — so cross with caution or turn back if conditions aren’t safe.

 

8. Don’t rely on mobile coverage

Signals can be patchy in the bush, so don’t rely solely on your phone. Paper maps, offline GPS apps, or a satellite device can give you backup.

 

9. Leave and return before dark

Try to get back to camp before sunset — tracks become harder to follow, and wildlife is more active at night.

 

10. Stay alert
This is one of the most overlooked camping hints and tricks — be mindful of your surroundings, including wildlife above and below. Walk quietly, keep noise to a minimum, and enjoy the serenity without disturbing the ecosystem.

And don’t forget — every trip should include a basic emergency plan for camping, including how to contact help, what to do if you’re lost, and where your closest ranger station or first aid support is located.

 

Hiring a Car in Queensland

 

From coastal roads to red dirt tracks, Queensland is made for road trips. With Budget, you can choose from reliable car hire and 4x4 rental options that match your trip — whether you're heading from Brisbane to the outback, or from Cairns to the Cape.

With car rental locations in Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, Townsville, and beyond, our team is here to help you get where you want to go — comfortably and confidently. Just tell us where you're headed, and we’ll sort you out with the right wheels, local advice, and anything else you need to hit the road with confidence.