Essential Items to Keep in Your Car in Tasmania

Driving in Tasmania can be one of the most beautiful experiences you’ll ever have — winding roads through forests, misty mountain passes, and empty beaches at the end of a country lane.
But with all that beauty comes a bit of unpredictability: changing weather, wildlife, long distances between towns, and limited phone coverage in some areas.

Having the right gear in your car isn’t just smart — it can make a big difference in your comfort and safety.

Here’s a simple guide to what you should always keep in your car in Tasmania.

1. Warm Clothing and a Blanket

Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly — especially if you break down or need to wait for help.

• Wool blankets, warm jumpers, a beanie, gloves — all can be lifesavers if you’re caught in cold weather.

Tip:
Pack extras even if you think "it’s just a short trip." Tasmanian weather loves a surprise.

2. Torch (and Spare Batteries)

Whether you’re checking a tyre at night, lighting up a campsite, or walking back to a remote accommodation spot, a good torch is essential.

Tip:
Head torches are especially handy — keeping your hands free.

3. Basic First Aid Kit

In rural Tasmania, you might be a long way from the nearest pharmacy or doctor.
A simple first aid kit should include:

• Bandages, plasters

• Antiseptic wipes

• Painkillers

• Tweezers

• Snake bite bandage (especially if you hike or drive through bush areas)

4. Water and Snacks

It’s easy to underestimate distances between towns — and not every little town has a 24-hour petrol station or shop.

Tip:
Keep a couple of bottles of water, some muesli bars, and dry snacks like nuts in the glove box or boot.

5. Mobile Phone Charger and Backup Power Bank

Mobile coverage can be patchy in remote areas — but when you do have reception, you’ll want your phone charged.

Tip:
Carry both a car charger and a fully charged backup power bank just in case.

6. Spare Tyre, Jack, and Tools

Many roads are gravel, and potholes are a fact of life in rural Tasmania.
You don’t want to find out your spare is flat when you’re 80km from the nearest town.

Tip:
Check your spare tyre pressure every few months — and make sure you know how to change it before you need to.

7. Paper Map

Yes, old-school maps still matter!
In parts of Tasmania, your GPS might drop out completely, and not all roads are well signed.

Tip:
A basic road atlas of Tasmania or downloaded offline maps on your phone can save the day.

8. Firewood (If You're Camping or Travelling Rural in Winter)

In colder months, if you're camping or staying at remote cabins, having a small stack of dry firewood and kindling can be a real comfort.

Tip:
Only carry firewood if you're travelling within Tasmania — and always follow local fire regulations, especially in summer.

Quick Car Essentials Checklist

✅ Warm clothing and blanket
✅ Torch and spare batteries
✅ First aid kit (with snake bandage)
✅ Water and non-perishable snacks
✅ Phone charger and backup power bank
✅ Spare tyre, jack, and tools
✅ Paper map or offline map app
✅ Firewood (for remote trips in colder seasons)

Final Thought

In Tasmania, being a little more prepared isn’t about being paranoid — it’s about being practical.
A few simple items in your car mean you can enjoy all the wild beauty of this island with peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for whatever the journey brings.