Travel Info / Safety Tips / Bushwalking and camping
Outdoor activities like bushwalking and camping are must-have experiences in the Northern Territory. Here is some travel information and safety tips to remember:
- carry and drink plenty of water; at least one litre of water for every hour of walking in very warm weather.
- take notice of all signs – especially ‘no swimming’ signs at waterways inhabited by saltwater crocodiles
- be mindful that snakes inhabit most areas of the Territory, so be cautious when walking through long grass
- ensure you have an adequate fitness level for the bushwalk you plan to undertake
- carry appropriate safety equipment, such as an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), satellite phone and first aid kit
- avoid walking in the hottest part of the day or walking alone
- register with the overnight bushwalking register if you plan an extended walk
- wear sun protection and take insect repellent for both walking and camping
- never camp near the water's edge
- carry a map of the area you're walking/camping in and know how to read it
- tell someone your plan and when you expect to return
- shake out your shoes in the morning to remove any 'critters' that have settled in during the night
- always camp in designated areas
- only build fires in the pits provided and take care to completely extinguish the flame when finished
- limit the use of fire and be aware of fire bans in certain areas of the Territory
- wear sturdy shoes, thick socks, a hat and sunscreen while bushwalking
- some areas require permits to enter so check this before setting out
