4 WORST mistakes first-time visitors make in WA

1️⃣ Underestimating distance and fuel stops

Once you leave Perth, some towns can be +3 hours apart! So, as a rule of thumb, fuel up before you think you need to. 

Also, carry WATER and 1-2 jerry cans if you’re going off the beaten track. We recommend getting metal jerry cans, they’re tougher than plastic and less likely to crack on bumpy roads. Always have a safety plan (satellite phone, emergency supplies) if you are doing remote driving.

2️⃣ Cramming too much in one trip

Yes, WA is massive, but it’s usually bigger than most people expect. 

Trying to tick off too many places in one trip usually means more time on the road, rushed stops, and quick burnout. 

Instead, pick one region max and explore it properly! You’ll see more and you won’t spend the whole trip behind the wheel.

3️⃣ Forgetting to download offline maps

Reception in WA drops out fast once you leave the coast or hit remote stretches. Google Maps won’t help much if your route disappears halfway to Karijini!

So make sure to download offline maps before you go, and grab paper maps at visitor centres for national parks or long inland drives. It’s one of those small things that saves a lot of stress.

4️⃣ Picking the wrong season

So many people think Australia = Hot sunny weather everywhere all year round.

For example, we think the worst place that you can go in summer is up north of Australia. There's poisonous jellyfish, flies, cyclones, rain, humidity... It is REALLY uncomfortable!

That's why we recommend staying around Perth, Rottnest Island and down south (ex. Albany, Esperance, etc) in summer.

But in winter you want to be NORTH!

Autumn and Spring are more flexible you can (kind of) go anywhere then.

For specific details on where to go and when, check our "Seasons matter in WA! Here’s WHERE to go and WHEN" cheatsheet here in Rexby (go to the Travel Tips section).