By Owning a VW camper opens up endless possibilities for exploring Australia’s diverse terrain and climate. From the tropical north to the temperate south, your van needs the right gear to handle whatever conditions you encounter. When browsing motorhomes for sale in Australia, you’ll find many come partially equipped, but adding these essential accessories will transform your mobile home into a truly comfortable base for adventures.
The right accessories make the difference between a cramped weekend trip and months of comfortable living on the road. Australian conditions demand specific solutions, from dealing with intense UV rays to managing dust and heat across thousands of kilometres.
Solar Panels
A quality solar setup keeps your batteries charged without running the engine. In Australia’s sunny climate, a 200-400 watt system provides enough power for lighting, fans, and charging devices. Flexible panels work well on curved roofs, while rigid panels offer better efficiency and durability.
Awning
An awning creates instant shade and doubles your living space. Wind-out awnings attach to your van’s side and set up in minutes. Choose one rated for Australian wind conditions, as afternoon gusts can damage lightweight models. The extra shade becomes essential during hot summer days.
Water Filtration System
Australian tap water varies in quality across different regions. A good filtration system ensures safe drinking water from any source. Install an inline filter between your tank and taps, or use a portable system for filling up at questionable water points.
Inverter
A pure sine wave inverter converts 12V battery power to 240V household current. This lets you run laptops, cameras, and other electronics without modification. Size your inverter according to your power needs, typically 1000-2000 watts for most camper setups.
Diesel Heater
Winter nights in Australia can get surprisingly cold, especially in the desert and mountain regions. A diesel heater provides efficient, quiet heating without draining your main battery. These units burn fuel sparingly and heat your entire van evenly.
Portable Toilet
Freedom camping often means no facilities nearby. A portable cassette toilet gives you independence from public amenities. Choose one with a good seal and adequate capacity for your typical trip length.
Fridge Slide
A fridge slide makes accessing your compressor fridge much easier. Instead of lifting items over the fridge door, the slide pulls the entire unit out for full access. This becomes invaluable when your fridge sits in a tight space.
External Shower
Rinse off salt, sand, and sweat before getting back in your van. An external shower connects to your water system and provides hot water for washing dishes, cleaning gear, or a quick rinse after beach days.
Roof Vent Fan
Moving air through your van prevents condensation and keeps temperatures manageable. A two-way fan pulls hot air out during the day and brings cool air in at night. Choose one with rain sensors that automatically close during downpours.
Recovery Gear
Getting stuck happens, especially on beach tracks and outback roads. Basic recovery gear includes a snatch strap, shackles, and a shovel. Add sand tracks if you plan to hit the beaches, as these help tremendously in soft sand conditions.
