For those embarking on remote touring in Australia, having a reliable long-range fuel tank can be a game-changer. Vast, isolated landscapes with long stretches between refuelling stations make the ability to carry more fuel not only convenient but essential for peace of mind. For Gary and Amanda from Travel Outback Australia, long-range fuel tanks are a critical part of their off-road adventures. As experts in remote touring, they know the value of having extra fuel when exploring Australia’s rugged outback.

Gary and Amanda drive a 2014 Toyota Landcruiser Prado, which has been equipped with our 136L Sub Tank Replacement. This upgrade replaces the standard 63L sub tank, giving them a total fuel capacity of over 220L. With this much fuel onboard, remote travel becomes far less stressful, allowing them to explore the most isolated corners of the country with confidence.

The Benefits of a Long Range Tank for Remote Travel

For Gary and Amanda, having a long-range tank means they can travel long distances without constantly worrying about refuelling. “We often travel quite long distances without refuelling, knowing that we can explore the outback safely,” says Gary. “The added fuel capacity means we can keep the weight down where needed, but still carry enough fuel to comfortably complete our journeys. Everything adds up when you're covering those vast distances.”

The extra fuel capacity provides them the freedom to venture deep into Australia’s remote landscapes without being constrained by the availability of fuel stations. But, as Gary points out, even with a large fuel tank, things don’t always go smoothly.

The “Uh-Oh” Moment: Fuel Still Runs Low in the Outback

Even with a 220L+ fuel capacity, Gary and Amanda had a memorable “uh-oh” moment while crossing the Simpson Desert. After covering many of the southern tracks like Rig Road, the Approdinna Attora Knolls Track, and Lone Gum, they decided to explore the geographic centre of the Simpson Desert. Upon their return to Mt Dare, they were surprised to find they had only 20L of fuel left.

“We thought we had plenty of fuel, but after such an epic journey, we were nearly running on empty,” Gary recalls. “It’s a good reminder that, no matter how much fuel you have, you always need to be mindful of the distance you’re covering and the unpredictable nature of remote travel.”

This experience highlights that while a long-range tank provides a significant advantage, it’s always essential to keep an eye on fuel levels and plan accordingly. The outback is vast, and even with extra fuel, unexpected situations can arise.

Why Gary and Amanda Upgraded to a Long Range Tank

Even though their Prado could carry up to 150L of fuel as standard, Gary and Amanda found this wasn’t always sufficient for some of the more remote areas they frequent. “We just found the standard tank wasn’t quite adequate, especially in places like the Simpson Desert,” Gary explains. “For instance, when COVID restrictions hit, we couldn’t cross into Birdsville because of flooding, but having that extra capacity meant we could venture deep into the desert and return to where we started on just one tank of fuel.” 

Gary also mentions his dislike for carrying fuel in the car or on the roof rack, where it adds unnecessary weight. The long-range tank allows them to carry more fuel while keeping the load balanced and safely tucked away under the vehicle.

The Peace of Mind Long Range Tanks Provide

Gary and Amanda have been living and working in the Australian outback since 1995—Gary as a park ranger in Alice Springs and Amanda as an anthropologist and archaeologist. With their extensive knowledge of the region, they often share advice on remote touring and fuel management with fellow travellers. When asked if long-range fuel tanks come up in conversation, Gary responds, “If people don’t ask, I tell them! Especially when I see someone worrying about whether they’ll make it from point A to point B. With my LRA tank, I don’t have to worry about that anymore.”

Gary explains that the extra fuel capacity gives them the flexibility to choose when and where they refuel, based on convenience and price, rather than worrying about running out of fuel in remote locations. This freedom allows them to focus on the adventure rather than the logistics of fuel.

Why Gary and Amanda Trust Their Long Range Automotive Tank

There are many options on the market for long-range fuel tanks, so we asked Gary how he felt about his Long Range Automotive tank.

“The tank has given us no issues. The 2mm aluminised steel construction is tough and built to handle the harsh conditions we drive under. It tucks up neatly under the rear of the Prado, which is great because it’s protected if we happen to drag the rear end over obstacles. We couldn’t be happier with it!”

Sharing Knowledge and Adventure with Others

Gary and Amanda aren’t just outback travellers—they’re also passionate about sharing their knowledge and experiences with others. Through their blog, Travel Outback Australia, they provide valuable insights on trip planning, destinations, and practical how-to articles. They’re also very active on social media, sharing stunning photos and firsthand accounts of their journeys across the outback.

It’s reassuring to know that with their long-range tank, Gary and Amanda can get to wherever they need to go—whether it’s a remote outback track or a hidden corner of the desert—and still have fuel left for the journey home.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re inspired by Gary and Amanda’s travels and want to learn more about their adventures, check out their blog for tips, stories, and advice on remote touring. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for real-time updates and stunning images from their journeys.

If you’re considering upgrading your own vehicle with a long-range fuel tank, use the search tool to find a tank suitable for your vehicle and get a quote today. With the right equipment, you can enjoy remote touring with peace of mind—just like Gary and Amanda!