New gear: Big Lap Bible 2

There are many good reasons to escape the rat race and embark on a Big Lap of Oz.

For starters, it's a trip of a lifetime and there's no better way to appreciate the vastness of our Continent; plus it's right up there as far as bucket lists go...

You might want to stay at home though, if you don't like spending hours and hours behind the wheel (after all, it’s a seriously long distance -- 14,500 km by Highway 1, the world’s longest national highway).

With its mix of sealed and unsealed roads it also requires a tow car and caravan in top condition, along with plenty of cash reserves to fund all the fuel and camping fees. And unless you're retired, plenty of long service leave and 'stretched' school holidays to do it with the family...

Related: Big Lap of boredom?

Many adventurous caravanners yearn to do it, but are thwarted by the organisation and planning involved, not to mention the time and cost.

For these people Aus Travel Press has created the ultimate planner, tracker and guide for what is simply called the ‘Big Lap Bible’ which has just been updated for 2023.

Covering more than seven million kilometres, documenting 1200 camp listings and with more than 300 useful travel tips, it’s a great travel book that will captivate friends and family when they visit.

Its 510 pages also have designated space to record significant dates, a daily travel schedule, a record of expenses and a booking log of where you camped and the road conditions involved in getting there.

For those you inspire to do similar, there’s a handy ‘pre-lap to do list’ starting six months out, plus a memory jogging ‘Things to Remember’ by State in the 82-page ‘Planning’ summary.

Useful information on ‘How to gut a fish’, 'How to set a campfire’, 'How to treat a snakebite', 'How to make damper’, ‘How to drive on sand’ and 'How to tie a strong knot' are also included, as are tips on car and caravan preparation and travelling with pets.

The ‘Bible’ also includes a comprehensive guide to free camping, making money and working on the road, home-schooling, and ‘foodie’ experiences.

The book takes you through Australia state-by-state describing the main tourist drives and sights not to be missed, plus the places where you should stay to make the most of your travels.

So what's new in the second edition? There are more tips on travelling and exploring with kids and pets; a special segment listing family-friendly destinations and activities with particular information for young explorers; plus the maps are more detailed to minimise wrong turns and missed attractions. 

Designed to be used in conjunction with Hema maps of each region, it’s a weighty tome at 1.65kg, but a fun way to summarise the highlights of each day of an unforgettable travel experience.

The ‘Bible’ is not cheap at $99.95, but it’s one travel companion you'll appreciate having along on any 'round Australia road trip.

Available online from Hema Maps or the Big Lap Bible website.