Learn everything you need to know about swag camping in Uluru!
Picture yourself settling down for the night beneath the shimmer of a million stars. Instead of shutting out the world with curtains or a tent, you allow yourself to become a part of the natural landscape. To be at one with the incredible surroundings. To soak up timeless scenery that is like nowhere else in the world. This is exactly how it feels to sleep in a swag beneath the stars at Uluru. Swag camping is one of the best ways to really feel like a part of the landscape.
After a day spent exploring the landmarks that pepper the area, unwind with an open-air barbecue. Reminisce on your visit to the rugged peaks of Kings Canyon and the awe-inspiring Uluru. As the day comes to an end, marvel as the surrounding land changes colours as the sun sets on the horizon.
Then, when the sun has disappeared completely, you can relax in the silence and tranquillity around you. As you tuck yourself into a comfortable swag, stare up at the mesmerising stars until you fall asleep.
What is a swag?
A swag is like a large sleeping bag, but it’s made from strong canvas and features a comfortable sponge-like mattress. Swags have been used by Australians for years, providing single person accommodation that can easily be carried through the bush.
Within your swag you place your own sleeping bag and pillow. This provides a much warmer experience than sleeping in a tent. Additionally, the built-in mattress provides top comfort. Swags are the most popular form of sleeping equipment in the outback because they are like mini-beds beneath the stars.
Is swag camping safe?
When you think of the outback you might think of wild animals and insects, but you needn’t worry. The outback is actually the best place to indulge in a bit of outdoor sleeping because the dry air means there are no mosquitos. Plus, very few animals trundle through the barren landscape after dark
In fact, sleeping in a swag beneath the stars can be an amazing first-time camping experience. It offers the chance to soak up the eternally clear sky, surrounded by ancient rock formations and new-found friends!
How to set up a swag
Setting your swag up for the night is super easy and only takes a few seconds! If you’re swag camping with a tour, a guide will be on hand to help you. If you want to be extra prepared, there are plenty of explanatory videos that guide you through setting up a swag.
Basically, you will anchor the swag down so it doesn’t blow away. You’ll also put short, flexible poles through it to give you some wiggle room when you’re sleeping. Then you just put your sleeping bag and any other sleeping items you may have brought inside. It’s as quick and simple as that!
Join a swag camping tour
If you’re ready to give swag camping a try, join one of our tours. Whether you want to try one night or three nights of swag camping, it’s completely up to you!
This two day Uluru tour includes all meals and a night of swag camping. The first day will introduce you to the Cultural Centre and the Uluru Base Walk. In the evening we’ll marvel at the rock art and have a delicious dinner before settling into our swags under the stars. In the morning, we’ll wake up for a beautiful sunrise and explore the wonders of Kata Tjuta.
If you want to spend more time swag camping, join this four day Uluru tour. This tour includes all meals and three unforgettable nights of swag camping. On the first day you will explore Kata Tjuta and watch a scenic sunset before our first night of swag camping. The second day is when you will learn all about the cultural significance of Uluru and embark on the Uluru base walk. The third day will see us to Kings Canyon for even more scenic hiking. Our final night under the stars will be spent having one last dinner together and watching one more spectacular sunset. We will then wake up on day four and pack up our swags before the tour comes to an end.
Are you ready for swag camping in Uluru? Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Related article: When is the best time to visit Uluru?
Other activity: Camel Riding
Related article: When is the best time to visit Uluru?