A perspective of an experienced adventurer
If you reckon big tyres and bigger egos are what make a great trip, you’re dreaming and sooner or later, the bush will teach you the hard way.
Sure, massive lifts, 35s, and enough LED bars to light up Bourke Street look impressive parked outside the bakery. But when you’re 300 kms into the scrub and still rummaging through your ute for a camp stove, you’ll realise something: it’s the small efficiencies and the right 4WD fit-out accessories that make all the difference.
Efficiency is Freedom: Why the Small Wins Count
In the out back, every minute counts. The dust gets into your teeth, the diesel hums through your bones, and the bloke who packed smart is already enjoying his cuppa while you’re still untangling straps.
That’s what efficiency gives you. Freedom. More time for the good stuff: a quiet sunrise, an extra swim at the waterhole and less time trying to furol your own gear.
And here’s the best bit: you don’t need a total rebuild. You just need a smarter touring 4WD setup with the right gear, and the habits to match.
The Lazy Bloke’s Secret: Efficiency by Design
I’ll be honest I’m lazy. Not in a slack way, but in a “why waste time?” kind of way. Watching someone dig through a rolling pile of duffels in the back of their wagon makes me itch.
So I set up my rig with 4WD Interiors gear that just works; no gimmicks, no rattles, no drama.
Here’s how you do it.
1. Everything Has Its Place with 4WD Drawer Systems
Rule #1: if it doesn’t have a home, it stays at home.
My steel drawer 4WD system 4WD is the backbone of my touring setup. ADR safety compliant, built tough, quiet, and designed for real-world use.
I chose anti-rattle 4WD drawers from 4WD Interiors because nothing ruins a trip like the chorus of squeaks and bangs over corrugations. And the fact that the drawer system doesn’t fully extend is actually brilliant: the essentials stay up front for quick grabs, and the less-used bits are neatly hidden at the back, perfect for keeping clutter out of sight.
And because it’s lockable and rock-solid, it doubles as secure storage for a work ute too.
2. Keep your SUV occupants Safe and the Rear Clear with a Half Cargo Barrier
Here’s where most blokes go wrong with their wagon: throwing gear across the back seat, footwell, and anywhere it fits.
Not only does it look like a skip bin on wheels, but it’s dangerous when you hit the anchors.
That’s why a steel cargo barrier is essential. My ADR compliant half cargo barrier lets me stack my drawer storage high and still keep the cabin clear and calm. Whether you’re touring, camping, or using it as a tradie vehicle storage solution, it keeps your load safe and you even get peace of mind knowing it’s been crash-tested.
3. Minimise Clutter and Simplify Your Touring 4WD Setup
Here’s a hot tip: you don’t need to bring everything you own.
The more you pack, the more time you waste. Instead of loading up with gimmicks, focus on lightweight strong storage and multi-purpose gear.
A single good knife beats a full set. Layered clothes over piles of extras. A low-profile 4WD drawer system over a clunky setup.
I keep my camping gear drawers organised, lean, and efficient. No wasted time. No wasted space.
4. Everything Within Reach: Roof Consoles for 4WD
Ever tried fishing your UHF mic out from under a seat while bouncing along a track? Exactly.
That’s why I added a roof console with UHF slot from 4WD Interiors. Factory-fit look, rock-solid mount, and all my essentials within reach.
It’s more than just overhead storage. 4WD enthusiasts will appreciate it’s safer, neater, and bloody handy. Mine even has integrated lights so you’re sorted at night too.
If you care about fit and finish, their precision-fit roof console is the way to go.
5. Routine and Communication: The Final Piece of the Puzzle
Finally, good gear only gets you so far. Efficiency comes from habits too.
Pack and unpack the same way, every time. Everyone in the crew should know the plan, the track, and their role at camp.
When everyone and everything is in sync, you’re laughing instead of shouting.
The Payoff? More Time for What You Love
Every minute you save adds up.
Instead of faffing with a messy load or hunting for your camp stove, you’re sitting by the fire, feet up, taking it all in.
You will look and feel like you’ve got it all sorted.
Final Thoughts: Build it Right, Enjoy it More
At the end of the day, it’s not about how big your lift is or how many gadgets you’ve bolted on.
It’s about how little time you waste and how much more of the journey you get to enjoy.
If you want to do it right, here’s what I recommend:
✔ Give everything a place with a proper 4WD drawer system
✔ Keep your load secure with a cargo barrier for wagon 4WDs
✔ Fit an overhead roof console for all the essentials stay within easy reach whilst travelling
✔ Build good routines and keep everyone on the same page
The best money I’ve spent? Without a doubt: my 4WD Interiors roof console, lockable drawers, and a crash-tested cargo barrier.
They don’t just make your trips easier. They make them safer, quieter, and far more enjoyable.
So next time you’re gearing up for a trip, remember: it’s not about how much you bring or how much you spend.
It’s about the little wins and the right gear that make big adventures possible.
And if you can’t see that… don’t worry. The bush will sort you out soon enough.