Camping on the red dirt is an amazing experience, and we’re here to help make sure you’re self-sufficient, bush-ready and prepared for an incredible time camping in the desert.
We know that some of you haven’t camped at the Bash before - maybe it’s even your first time camping in the outback! It can be hard to know where to start when you’re packing for a trip like this, so we’ve put this page together as a jumping-off point.
Please use it as a guide: there might be things on the list you don’t need, or things you’ll want to take that aren’t on the list.
Winter in the desert is usually beautiful, warm and dry during the day and cold at night, but it can get windy and once in a blue moon it does rain, so come prepared for all weather:
Camping tips:
- Bring a solid shelter with a waterproof floor.
- Bring a tarp - great for shelter from sun, wind or rain, protecting your tent floor or just a little privacy!
- Put a closed-cell foam mat under your inflatable mat for extra warmth and to protect from prickles
- Bring strong pegs for the red dirt, and a set of sand pegs can also be handy if your campsite is a bit soft.
- Avoid mesh-only tents - the dust comes right in
No glass is allowed in the concert, public or camp areas. Glass allowed in your camp kitchen only.
Please take all grey water, including dish water, to dump points - do not tip on the ground.
You can buy basic groceries in Birdvsille and there’s a range of delicious food vendors at the Bash, but we recommend bringing some food with you as well. There is no drinking water available at the Bash so make sure you fill up in Birdsville before heading out to Big Red.
Food tips
- Wraps keep better than bread
- Individually wrap fruit and vegetables in newspaper and store in a cardboard box to keep them fresh
- For quick and easy camp meals, pre-cook and cryovac or vacuum-pack your meals - soups, stews, curries and pasta dishes work great!
During the day it’s generally warm and sunny, so bring lightweight clothing to protect from the sun, eg.
It can get very cold at night, so bring plenty of warm clothing, eg.
You might want to think about adding these things to your regular toiletries:
REMEMBER: you must bring ALL medications (there is no pharmacy in Birdsville or at the Bash)
Please click here to see the Big Red Bash site rules.
You’re going to need some extra emergency and repair gear for outback travel. Exactly what you need will depend on your vehicle and which route you’re taking.
The QLD Government resource Driving in the Outback is a good place to start HERE.
For more essential tips on planning for the Bash, don’t miss the Coming to the Bash checklist and our first timers guide to the Bash. You can also find more info about the event on our FAQ page.
Sponsors
Government & Council Supporters
Official Vehicle Sponsor
Big Red Bash is a unique high profile outback event, which draws significant media coverage.
If you are interested in Big Red Bash sponsorship opportunities, please contact us, and our sponsorship manager will respond to you.
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