Well… this is what it looks like when you assume an average of 15 L/100 km and pack the required jerry cans.

Yes, we’re aware that carrying petrol inside the cabin isn’t ideal.

We’re using NATO-style steel jerry cans because, in our experience, they seal properly and don’t emit fumes. I tested several plastic jerry cans and couldn’t find one that didn’t smell at least slightly in a closed vehicle.

Given the space constraints of the Jimny, we don’t realistically have another option — so this is a managed compromise. 

The orange ratchet straps are there to stop the jerry cans from moving. The black strap holds them together and prevents rattling.

The bungee cords are not for the jerry cans — they’re there to stop the bags stacked on top from creeping forward during endless corrugations.

It’s not perfect. It’s simply the most practical solution within the limits of the platform.

This is where we store the two 20L jerry cans with drinking water. They fit perfectly behind the seats — I guess I got lucky with the length of my legs.

Each morning we decant water from the large 20L jerry cans into the 4L jug you can see in between them. It’s much easier to handle a smaller jug for daily use, and it also helps us monitor consumption.

Keeping track of water intake is important. In dry desert conditions it’s surprisingly easy to under-drink and become dehydrated without noticing it. By emptying and refilling the 4L jug daily, we get a clear visual reminder of how much we’re actually consuming.

First packing trip complete — and surprisingly, everything does fit inside the Jimny if we’re willing to sacrifice the freezer (RIP bacon) and the esky. Space-wise, it works. Emotionally… still processing.

Here’s what’s what in the picture:

• Big green bag (front): All our food. The blue towel is for cleaning dusty hands.

• Small khaki bag: Kitchen gear. Underneath it are the two small chairs.

• To the right of the kitchen bag: Starlink Mini and a few odds and ends.

• Large open space above the food bag: Our clothing duffel goes there (not pictured).

• Two green/brown bags: Our sleeping system — bulky, but very light.

• Grey “tarp-looking” blob: Our tiny tent.

• Black bag (right side): Holds the metal bucket with the Kelly Kettle inside.

• Small green bag: Our “Bush bum bag” for toilet duties. The shovel sits just behind it, tucked under the sleeping system bag to stop it rattling.

• Self-inflating mattresses against the roof: Used as padding to lock everything in place so it doesn’t bounce around like a washing machine.

This setup also allows us to stop quickly, pull out the kitchen and chairs, make a coffee, or deploy the Triple B (Bush Bum Bag) without unpacking half the car.