equipment and hire others, for example sleeping bags, as they’re multi-purpose. They’re perfect if kids have sleep overs at home, they’re also more of a personal item as you might have a preferred colour or fabric. If you’re on a budget, consider buying items such as cutlery, plates and cooking utensils preloved from a charity shop for a couple of dollars and, when you’re done, just return them. Chris Moss says if you’re thinking of hiring camping gear for your next holiday it pays to get in early. ‘We do book out early, especially during peak periods, and special events,’ he says. At the time of booking, chat to the supplier about any particular needs you might have. For example, you may have difficulty bending down and need a comfy camp stretcher, or camp kitchen, that isn’t too low. They’ll also be able to kit you out with the right gear based on the temperatures, terrain and conditions that apply to your holiday destination.
What can you hire? Anything from a basic set-up to a complete package with all the bells and whistles. Kevin Brookhouse says hire companies can tailormake a camping package to suit specific needs. Whether it’s a romantic beach weekend escape for two, a get together camping with friends at a music festival, or a long bush camping adventure for the whole family; hiring makes for a stress free, relaxing holiday. As for what’s the most popular hire request. Chris Moss from Aussie Camping Hire says the tent is the hands-down winner. And his most unusual hire request? A truckload of camping gear he had to transport to the Aussie outback for the BBC’s Deadliest Creature TV series – focussing on snakes. The good news is that the cast and crew loved the experience – and no snakes ended up in anyone’s tents or sleeping bags! The essentials A roof over your head: be it a swag, a cosy tent for two or one to cater for a crowd ($28 for a 2 person) to ($40 for a 9 person) Beds: sleeping bags ($8), self-inflating mattress ($20) and comfy stretcher beds ($14) Cooking equipment: 2 burner gas stove with gas bottle ($15), cooking package frypan, utensils etc ($10), kitchen package with cups, plates etc ($5) Seating and tables: camp chairs ($5), folding tables ($5) Lighting: LED lantern ($12), gas light with bottle ($12) 60 |
GO CA MPING AUSTR A LI A
Portaloo and ensuite: If using a shovel isn’t your thing, rent a portaloo ($30) Eskies and fridges: Keeping your tucker and drinks cold is a must. (52 litre esky $24, medium 3 way fridge $70) But it doesn’t just stop there. For the glampers, there are also heaters to keep you snug, cupboards to keep your camping wardrobe wrinkle free, and hang-up mozzie nets. For offroad campers there are satellite phones to keep you in touch, vehicle recovery systems to get you out of strife if needed, and UHF radios and aerials. The list goes on. Remember, it’s not just camping gear on offer, there are hire bikes, kayaks and other leisure equipment, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday, having fun in the great Aussie outdoors.*
Camper and caravan hire For a two-berth on-road camper trailer (from $170), two-berth off-road (from $190) and for a caravan (can start at around $200). Camper trailers or caravans are usually outfitted with all the basic gear needed, including kitchen equipment, chairs and tables – some companies do offer linen and pillows, with others you’ll need to supply your own.* Budget bundles Hire companies may also offer equipment packages including tents, eskies, chairs and cooking gear, which can be cheaper than hiring individual items. There are also four-wheel-drive and camper hire packages available. And, of course, you don’t need to hire everything. Some campers opt to buy some
A helping hand Hire companies are generally located within capital cities, or within a stone’s throw of popular destinations for backpackers and holiday makers. Some offer delivery of the equipment within a specific geographical area for a fee. Others will even set up camp and pack up for you (for an additional fee). ‘People are time poor and want to enjoy relaxing for the whole weekend – not spend time setting up,’ says Kevin Brookhouse. Another advantage of hiring is that hirers can show you how all the gear works. Hire companies often throw in a booklet with instructions, or have instructions on their websites. And, if you really get stuck, you can call them to talk you through how to set up. Shannon Phipps recalled one customer who called whispering into the phone he couldn’t remember how to put up the camper trailer! ‘Why are you whispering?’ she asked him. ‘Well, I don’t want to get in trouble from the wife – while you were explaining to me how to put it up all I could think about was getting here and cracking open a cold beer!’