The latest release of the High Country by Australis Caravans has undergone a considered evolution, taking a capable off-road caravan to the next level, as we discovered when we checked out the 18ft 6in model. This next-generation model introduces enhancements that directly address the needs of serious adventurers.
According to Australis Caravans’ Mark Chadwick, each upgrade serves a distinct purpose, working together to create a more capable, comfortable, and self-sufficient mobile base camp for those who venture beyond conventional boundaries.
ENHANCEMENTS AT A GLANCE
The Australis High Country has been given four key upgrades to increase its appeal to serious offroad travellers:
- Raised X-plate protection: Now 870mm high (previously 600mm) for better protection from the terrain.
- Dual 225Ah lithium batteries: This is double the previous 12V capacity for extended adventures.
- Premium edge capping: The standard J-mould has been replaced with premium edge capping with engraved logo corners.
- 3000W inverter with shunt: Providing the ability to power most, if not all, of your electrical appliances.
POWER AND PROTECTION
The significantly raised X-Plate protection is a particularly welcome addition. At 870mm, this substantial increase from the previous height provides an additional 270mm of body defence. By extending higher up the sides, this additional protection shields more of the caravan body from trail hazards, preserving both function and appearance when you’re off the beaten track.
Power management receives an upgrade with dual 225Ah lithium batteries replacing the previous single-battery configuration. This doubling of power capacity should allow travellers to stay longer in remote locations without power concerns. The system pairs with an impressive 800W worth of solar panels mounted on the roof.
Rounding out the power system is a new 3000W inverter with shunt, a significant addition that provides almost home-like electricity/power for virtually any appliance, from coffee machines and laptops to kitchen appliances and entertainment systems, eliminating the compromise typically associated with remote camping.
While protection and power are highpoints of the vans, the new-look Australis High Country includes exterior refinements. The new heavy-duty edge capping with engraved logo corners serves dual purposes: the engraved logos add a distinctive aesthetic, while the improved construction should prove durable against the inevitable impacts encountered on rough tracks.
AUSTRALIS HIGH COUNTRY INTERIOR LAYOUT
Stepping inside the 18ft 6in Australis High Country reveals a thoughtfully designed space that makes excellent use of the available dimensions. While many caravans of this length opt for a north-south bed arrangement, Australis has chosen to retain an east-west bed in the front – a decision that pays dividends in the living space.
By keeping the bed configuration compact, the designers have freed up valuable real estate to include a number of smart storage solutions. The bedroom features a wardrobe and additional cupboard storage at the end of the bed – elements often sacrificed in smaller models. These aren’t token storage spaces either; they’re genuinely useful for longer trips where organisation becomes increasingly important.
The entire family isn’t forgotten, with comfortable bunks, storage and the much-needed lights, fans and device charging outlets included in the bunk bed section.
Perhaps the most impressive storage feature is the floor-to-ceiling pantry in the kitchen area. This vertical storage solution provides an enormous amount of space for food and supplies, eliminating the common problem of not having enough pantry space for extended trips. The smart design continues with numerous clever compartments and purpose-built drawers throughout the caravan.
Australis has clearly put thought into this kitchen. The inclusion of a full oven with recessed cooktop offers full cooking capabilities without compromising precious bench space. The recessed design means you can still utilise this area when the cooktop isn’t in use – a small but meaningful feature.
XTREME ADVANTAGE
For those seeking even more offroad capability, the Australis High Country is also available in an Xtreme edition, which takes the van’s bush-going abilities to the next level.
Building on the standard High Country platform, the Xtreme model includes an imposing toolbox on the A-frame, providing substantially more external storage for equipment and recovery gear.
A weatherproof Fusion Active external sound bar is included, while the power system in the Xtreme edition receives another significant boost: two 300Ah lithium batteries (up from two 225Ah batteries), paired with a comprehensive Enerdrive battery management system.
Heavy-duty checkerplate protection is used to shield underbody components such as the plumbing and grey water pipes from rough terrain and road debris. But perhaps most impressive is the van’s 12in truss chassis with distinctive laser-cut logo engravings – it certainly makes a statement about the nature of Australis Caravans’ flagship offoader.
SUMMING UP
The enhanced 18ft 6in Australis High Country represents a thoughtful evolution to the company’s compact offroad caravan in areas of importance to off-grid travellers: power and protection. The increased X-plate protection, the doubled battery capacity, the premium edge capping, and the powerful inverter system address practical needs without unnecessary complexity.
This model takes a balanced approach to both technical systems and liveability features. For buyers seeking a capable offroad caravan, with its latest enhancements, the High Country 18ft 6in makes a compelling case.
The combination of enhanced protection, doubled power capacity, and thoughtful interior design provides everything needed to venture further off-grid.
QUICK SPECS
- Overall length: 8.2 m
- External width: 2.4m
- Internal height: 1.98m
- Travel height: 3.1m
- Tare: 2759kg
- GTM: 3328kg
- ATM: 3500kg
- Group axle capacity: 3500kg
- Unladen ball weight: 172kg
- Base price: $107,200
