Australia has a huge range of walking country. Rainforest gullies, coastal headlands and alpine plateaus are all within reach of most cities. The same places can turn serious quickly when the weather changes or someone takes a wrong turn. Good planning is what keeps a great day out from becoming a rescue.

This guide covers the basics of planning a safe bushwalk. It draws on advice from the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, ACT Parks and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. Rules and conditions differ between parks and states, so always check the local park website before you set off. Local rangers know their tracks best.

Choose a walk that suits the whole group

Start by picking a route that matches your fitness and experience. Many parks grade their tracks using the Australian Walking Track Grading System. If you are unsure what a grade means for you, contact the local park office. Everyone in the group should be comfortable with the plan before you leave.

Travel at the pace of the slowest person. NSW National Parks recommends walking in groups of three or more. That way one person can stay with an injured walker while another goes for help. Agree as a group to stay together on the track.

Tell someone your plans

Leaving a trip plan is one of the simplest safety steps there is. Tell family or friends where you are going, who is with you and when you expect to return. They can then contact police if you are overdue. NSW National Parks provides a trip intention form for this purpose.

ACT Parks adds one more detail worth copying. Tell your contact what to do if you are late. A clear plan avoids confusion and delays if something does go wrong. Remember to let them know when you are safely back.

Check the weather and fire danger

Conditions in the bush can change rapidly. Check the weather forecast and any park alerts before you go. ACT Parks advises being prepared for changes regardless of the forecast, particularly in the colder months. Pack for the worst weather you could meet, not the best.

Fire danger is just as important as rain or wind. ACT Parks recommends checking the fire danger rating for the area you are visiting before you leave. Report any bushfire to triple zero and leave the area immediately. Park closures and alerts are usually posted on the relevant park website.

What to carry on a day walk

Water comes first. NSW National Parks recommends carrying at least two litres per person. ACT Parks reminds walkers to carry enough water to avoid dehydration, especially in summer. Treat any water taken from creeks or tanks before drinking it.

Food and gear matter too. Pack for the conditions and the length of the walk. The NSW National Parks lists of what to bring and what to wear are a good starting point:

  • a topographic map and compass that you know how to use
  • a mobile phone or satellite phone
  • matches and a torch
  • a first aid kit
  • food and a rubbish bag
  • bright clothes so you can be seen easily

Do not rely on your phone alone. ACT Parks notes that mobile reception may be unreliable and GPS may not work in many areas outside the Canberra suburbs. Carry spare batteries and a charger for any GPS device. The Emergency Plus app is also worth downloading, as NSW National Parks recommends it for location and emergency services information.

Personal locator beacons

A personal locator beacon, often called a PLB, is a small device that sends a distress signal when activated. NSW National Parks suggests carrying one if you are heading deep into the bush, to use as a last resort. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority encourages bushwalkers to carry a beacon fitted with GPS. Its rescue centre detects the signal and coordinates the response.

Registration is a key step that many people skip. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority beacon buying advice says any beacon you own must be registered with AMSA. That includes a beacon bought second hand from someone else. AMSA says registration can significantly reduce rescue response times.

Be careful where you buy a beacon. AMSA warns against buying one from Canada or the USA, as those models do not meet the Australian Standard. Beacons registered here must be coded with an Australian country code. If you do not want to buy one, ACT Parks says beacons can be hired from the Namadgi and Tidbinbilla visitor centres.

Staying on track

Leaving the marked track is one of the easiest ways to get lost. ACT Parks advises sticking to the tracks to avoid getting lost and to reduce your impact on the bush. It is also blunt about the risks. If you get lost or injured off track, there is no guarantee rangers will be able to find you.

If you do lose the track, stop and stay calm. NSW National Parks recommends bright clothing so you can be easily seen if you are lost. If you cannot find your way, use your phone or beacon to call for help. Your trip plan means someone will raise the alarm if you are overdue.

Bushwalking as an overseas visitor

Many international travellers come to Australia with long walks on their list. Our guide to applying for an Australian visa is a good first step for anyone planning that kind of trip. Once you arrive, read the NSW National Parks bushwalking safety advice or the equivalent page for the state you are visiting. Conditions here can be very different from walking at home.

Plenty of Australians head overseas to walk as well. Bali has volcano treks and rice terrace trails that draw walkers every year. If the long flight is what stops you going, our article on beating a fear of flying may help. The same planning habits apply wherever you walk.

Frequently asked questions

How much water should I carry on a bushwalk?

NSW National Parks recommends at least two litres per person. Carry more in hot weather or on longer walks. Treat any creek or tank water before drinking it.

Do I need to register a personal locator beacon?

Yes. AMSA says beacons must be registered with it, including used ones. Registration helps rescuers respond faster.

Can I rely on my phone to find my way?

Not on its own. Reception can be patchy and GPS may not work in some areas. Carry a paper map and compass and know how to use them.

What should I do if I see a bushfire?

Report it to triple zero and leave the area immediately. Check the fire danger rating before any walk. Follow park alerts and closures.