Vehicle Choice
SUVs like the RAV4, CX-5, or Forester offer enough cargo space for solo or couple camping. Utes with a canopy (HiLux, Ranger) provide weatherproof storage and can fit a mattress in the tray.
Essential Setup
Self-inflating mattress or camping stretcher, 12V fridge (Engel, Dometic, or ARB — $400-1,500), portable gas stove, LED camping lights (powered from the car's 12V), and a quality sleeping bag rated for WA's variable temperatures.
Dual Battery System
If you run a fridge overnight, a dual battery system ($500-1,000 installed) prevents your starter battery from going flat. Essential for extended bush camping.
Best Free Camping in WA
WikiCamps Australia app lists hundreds of free camping spots across WA. Popular areas include Kalbarri, Coral Bay surrounds, the Nullarbor, and numerous spots in the South West forests.
Leave No Trace
Take all rubbish, use biodegradable soap, keep fires in designated fire pits only (and check fire ban status), and respect camping area quiet hours. WA's bush is pristine — let's keep it that way.