Touring in a 4WD: Keep It Simple, Make It Count
There’s something about hitting the road with a well-set-up 4WD that just works. Whether it’s the freedom, the solitude, or the pure satisfaction of living off what you catch, touring is all about stripping things back to the essentials—and finding peace in the process.
Why I Tour
Touring isn’t about clocking up kilometres or chasing the next “epic” shot. For me, it’s about getting back to basics. Leaving behind the noise of everyday life and slowing things down. There’s a calming rhythm that comes with being out on the road, off-grid, relying on what you’ve packed and what you can catch. Simplicity becomes the luxury.
The Right 4WD Makes All the Difference
When you're building a touring setup, the vehicle is everything. You don’t need something flashy—but you do need something reliable. The wrong choice (or a dodgy build) can turn a cruisy trip into a disaster real quick.
For me, a solid ute is the go-to. It offers flexibility, decent space, and tends to handle long distances and rough tracks without fuss. Whatever you choose, knowing your rig inside-out—and being able to handle basic repairs—is a massive advantage when things go wrong.
What’s the Goal of a Touring Setup?
Your 4WD setup should cover your basic needs: food, water, and shelter. That’s it.
You’re not building a luxury apartment on wheels—you’re creating a mobile, functional base that makes daily life on the road simple and stress-free. Every piece of gear you include should serve a purpose, and ideally, be quick to access and easy to use.
My Touring Essentials (and Where the Money Should Go)
Most stock 4WDs can take you to 95% of places you’ll want to go in Australia. The real work is in making the setup practical and comfortable. Here’s what I consider essential gear for long-haul touring:
- ✅ Accessible fridge + separate freezer
- ✅ Drawer system + pantry (functional, not fancy)
- ✅ Headboard-mounted water storage
- ✅ Prep table that folds out and works
- ✅ 270º awning for fast shelter
- ✅ Rooftop tent with a solar-fed 12V system
💡 Tip: Spend your money where it counts. A quality canopy setup with room to grow will pay off in the long run.
Budgeting: Do More with Less
If you’re working within a budget (and who isn’t?), prioritise function over form. Start with a strong, well-designed canopy—one that protects your gear and gives you a clean layout to build from.
Then, add only what you need: cold food storage, reliable water supply, and solid storage. Don’t waste cash on gear just because it looks good on Instagram. Half the stuff people carry ends up being dead weight.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes I’ve seen—and made:
- 💸 Over-investing in gear you won’t use
- 🛠️ Choosing complicated systems that become a headache to maintain
- 📦 Poor weight distribution (especially over the rear axle)
- 📏 Ignoring legal weight limits (GVM/GCM—critical if you’re towing)
Stick to what you need, and make it easy to live with daily.
Know the Legal Stuff
Always check your vehicle’s weight limits—and stay under them. Don’t just load up the rear or throw everything into the canopy without thinking.
If you're towing, make sure your GCM (Gross Combination Mass) is within spec, and that your insurance covers your full setup. Roadworthy isn't just about staying legal—it’s about safety, too.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, touring should be straightforward and enjoyable. If your setup is frustrating, cluttered, or overly complicated, you’re going to lose interest real quick. Keep it simple, build it smart, and focus on gear that makes your life easier—not flashier.