5 Must-Have Apps to Enhance Your Outdoor Spring Adventure

28 August 2023

Spring is here, and thankfully you're in the best country on earth for an outdoor adventure! With our vast landscapes, breathtaking natural wonders and diverse wildlife, Australia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you're planning a thrilling hike through the lush rainforests, an unforgettable snorkelling experience in the Great Barrier Reef, or a daring camping trip under the starry outback sky, these five incredible apps are essential companions for your Australian outdoor adventures. So grab your phone, charge up your power bank, and let's dive in.

There's not really any suburb of Australia that doesn't have an amazing bushwalk nearby, and AllTrails is the ultimate app for discovering what's around. With its extensive database of hiking, walking, and biking trails across Australia, this app helps you find the perfect trail that matches your skill level and preferences. The app provides detailed trail maps, reviews from fellow adventurers, photos, and essential information about the trail's difficulty, length, and elevation gain. It also allows you to track your progress and record your journey, making it easy to share your experiences with friends and family.

When embarking on outdoor adventures, being well-informed about the weather is crucial for your safety and enjoyment. Weatherzone is a top-rated weather app that provides accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts for locations all over Australia. The app offers detailed radar maps, satellite images, severe weather alerts, and long-term forecasts, ensuring you can plan your outdoor activities with confidence. From avoiding storms to finding the perfect sunny day for your beach escapades, Weatherzone has got your back. 

Adventures don't only have to be during the day. The warmer nights allow the perfect opportunity to explore the stars with family and friends using your phone to guide the way. Star Walk 2 is a stargazing app that lets you explore the night sky and identify constellations, planets, and celestial objects with just a few taps on your smartphone. Whether you're camping in the Outback or your backyard, this app provides an interactive sky map that guides you through the wonders of the universe. Be amazed as you learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies visible from your location, adding an extra dimension of awe to your outdoor adventure. There's an ad-supported version for free, or the paid version adds some additional functionality.

Manly or Bondi? Cottesloe or South Beach? Burleigh Heads or Rainbow Bay? Australia boasts some of the world's most breathtaking beaches, and Beachsafe is the app that helps you make the most of your coastal escapades. Developed by Surf Life Saving Australia, Beachsafe provides crucial information about more than 12,000 Australian beaches, including weather conditions, water quality, surf forecasts, and patrolled areas. This app is a lifesaver, literally, as it highlights potential hazards and offers safety tips, ensuring you have a fantastic and secure beach experience.

Getting back to nature is great... until nature calls! The Australian National Public Toilet Map app comes to the rescue, providing information on nearby public restrooms no matter where you are in Australia (thank you Federal Government!). This app is particularly handy when you're exploring remote areas where facilities might be scarce. With a few taps on your phone, you can locate the nearest toilets, ensuring your outdoor experience remains comfortable, enjoyable and anxiety-free.
 

We Australians have always loved the outdoors, and now, thanks to technology, we can craft outings that cater to adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and stargazers alike. From planning your journey on the best bushwalks to staying informed about weather conditions, these apps will enhance your outdoor adventure in every corner of Australia. So, pack your bags, grab your phone, download these apps, and get ready for an unforgettable experience exploring the wonders of the land down under. Remember, technology can be a valuable tool in ensuring your safety and making the most of your time amidst Australia's awe-inspiring landscapes, but be sure to put your phone away and enjoy the surrounding - that's what it's all about. Happy adventuring!