5 Essential Tips for Safely Sharing the Road with Road Trains

If you're planning an outback journey through Western Australia, you’re almost guaranteed to come across one of the outback’s true giants: the road train. These enormous trucks can pull multiple trailers, stretch more than 50 metres, and weigh well over 100 tonnes. Understanding how to safely share the road with them is crucial for any traveller.

Before you head off, make sure your towing setup is suitable for remote conditions. At Camp Co, we offer tough, reliable 4WD camper trailers ranging from 2-berth to 6-berth—ideal for travellers wanting a comfortable and capable off-road accommodation solution. Because towing a camper increases the overall length and weight of your rig, extra care is needed when driving near heavy vehicles.

Here are five key tips to keep in mind:

1. Give Road Trains Plenty of Room

Road trains require a huge distance to stop—often more than a kilometre. Never cut in front of one or assume you can zip past quickly. With a camper trailer in tow, your acceleration, braking, and manoeuvrability are reduced, so always provide plenty of space and treat road train drivers with the respect their job demands.

2. Plan Your Overtake Carefully

Overtaking a road train isn't something to rush. Their length means you need a long, straight stretch of clear road with excellent visibility. Before attempting to pass, make sure:

1. You can see the entire length of the road train.

2. There is no oncoming traffic for a long distance.

3. You’ve dropped back far enough to build speed safely with your camper in tow.

If conditions aren’t perfect, wait. There’s no deadline worth risking your safety.

3. Use Your UHF Radio (Channel 40)

Most road train drivers monitor Channel 40 on the UHF. If your vehicle is fitted with a radio, use it—it’s one of the best safety tools on the road. A simple message like:

“G’day mate, this is the Land Cruiser towing the camper behind you. Is it safe to come around?”

Drivers will often let you know when the road ahead is clear and may even slow slightly to help you pass. Always thank them once you’re back in front—courtesy goes a long way out here.

4. Brace for Strong Wind Gusts

As a road train passes in the opposite direction, the air pressure it creates can produce a powerful blast of wind. This effect is stronger when towing a camper trailer due to its broad sides. Before the truck reaches you, reduce your speed slightly, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel, and hold your line. It’s a normal part of outback driving.

5. Patience Beats Speed Every Time

You’re exploring one of the world’s greatest landscapes—there’s no need to rush. If overtaking doesn’t feel safe, don’t force it. Pull over, stretch your legs, look at the scenery, and let the road train go on its way. The outback rewards calm and considered driving.

Travel Safe and Enjoy Your Journey

Encountering road trains is part of the authentic outback experience. With the added length and weight of a camper trailer, it’s vital to stay alert, plan ahead, and drive with care.

Camp Co provides strong, reliable 4WD camper trailers from 2-berth to 6-berth to help you travel comfortably and confidently. Tow safely, respect other road users, and enjoy every moment of your adventure.