How To Be Safe on Australian Bushwalks

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Australia hosts a plethora of magnificent walks. The plentiful national parks will take you alongside rugged cliffs with jewel blue waters. Or perhaps, up steep mountains for panoramic views. Maybe white sand beach walks are more your style. Whatever your fancy, Australia has something to suit it. But don’t be “that person” who bushwalks unprepared and ends up needing to be rescued, or worse…

Personal Safety on Australian Bushwalks:

• • Pay attention to the signs posted. Seriously. There have been many deaths from people falling off cliffs or being swept away by the waves.

• Wear layers.
• Wear a sun protecting hat.
• Bring lots of reef-safe sunscreen Cancer Council is my go-to sunscreen in Australia, water and snacks. Many walks do not provide you with places to replenish your supplies along the way. However, Australia is great for having water bottle fill stations around cities or gas stations. Pick up a good reusable water bottle. I’ve been using one from Kor for several months now and I love it.
• Many tracks have log books. Don’t hesitate to use them.
• Cell phone reception in Australia can be virtually non-existent at the best of times. Consider a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) if you are walking alone.
• Wear closed toe, sturdy shoes. I’ve been wearing Nikes lately and have been blister free.This can reduce injuries to feet but also protect against snakes and spiders.

Preparation for Australian Bushwalks:

• Stop by local visitor centres before beginning any longer walks. The staff there can let you know of any safety advisories and provide you with a map. If weather has been bad lately then certain tracks may be closed.
• If you are doing a long or multi-day hike, ensure that people know your plans. Tell friends, family, or your accommodations where you are going, when you plan to be back, and if you have any health concerns (That way, medical teams know what to expect if something does happen).
• If at all possible, avoid walking alone. Try to have at least two to three other people in your group.
• Know your limits and stay within them. If you’re in a group that is planning something you do not feel comfortable with, then speak up. Consider suggesting an alternative.
• Check the weather.
• Before setting out, ensure that you have enough time to complete the walk. If the posted sign is three hours and it is already 5:00 pm then you will might end up walking in the dark.

Animal Safety on Australian Bushwalks

• Avoid longer grass when possible. This is a snake haven.
• Stomp occasionally or walk a bit heavy footed. Let the snakes know you are here. That being said, they are not interested in you and will typically move away if they know you are there. Generally, snakes only attack when threatened.
• For more information on snakes, read this.
• Other animals to be aware of depending on the state you are in are: Dingoes, crocodiles, and cassowaries.

Australian bushwalks are incredibly rewarding. You would be remiss to skip them because of idle concerns about snakes. If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying the views and less on avoiding the risks.

What I Never Bushwalk Without:

Any other safety tips? Share them in the comments.

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