Autumn in Australia brings out the best in the outdoors: cooler weather, vibrant colours, and the perfect excuse to head off on weekend escapes. Whether you're paddling, picking fruit, or chasing views on two wheels, there’s no shortage of fresh-air adventures to enjoy.
But with all that fun comes the reality of nature’s little surprises — think mud, grass, wet socks, or fruit juice where it doesn’t belong. This guide gives you the lowdown on 7 popular outdoor activities to enjoy this season — and pro tips on how to keep your car clean no matter what comes back with you.
1. Kayaking and Canoeing Adventures
Imagine paddling through serene waters at popular destinations like Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra or the Murray River, where autumn reflections and native birdlife create postcard-perfect moments. There’s something inherently calming about being out on the water — and autumn offers the perfect weather for it. As the leaves turn golden and the mornings grow crisper, kayaking and canoeing offer an ideal escape from the daily hustle. Whether you're paddling across the serene surface of Lake Burley Griffin or tracing the bends of the mighty Murray River, it’s about soaking in the sounds of nature, spotting native birdlife, and losing track of time. For the more adventurous, faster-moving rivers and remote routes offer just the right touch of adrenaline. It’s a choose-your-own-pace kind of outdoor experience.
Paddling may be peaceful, but it’s not always clean. You’ll likely end up with soaked shoes, dripping paddles, and muddy feet — especially when launching or landing at natural riverbanks. Combined with wet gear and the occasional splash from a fellow paddler, it’s a recipe for a messy car cabin if you’re not prepared.
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why this rating:
- Wet clothing and shoes after paddling
- Muddy or grassy riverbanks
- Water dripping from gear
Be prepared with:
- Waterproof TPE floor mats – Keep mud and moisture contained with easy-to-clean, snug-fitting coverage.
- Large towel for wet feet – Dry off before hopping in to avoid soaked carpets.
- Dry bag for soggy clothes – Seal away wet or dirty clothes until you get home.
- Plastic tub or tray for wet gear – Prevents water from pooling in your boot; OAD4X4’s TPE boot liner does a great job too.
2. Autumn Bushwalks and Hiking
Some of the best places to wander in autumn include Grampians National Park in Victoria or the scenic Blue Mountains in NSW, where crisp air and panoramic views await. Autumn is prime time for bushwalks in Australia, when the crisp air and mellow light bring out the best in every trail. Whether you're doing a challenging summit climb or a gentle forest loop with friends, hiking offers the perfect balance of adventure and reflection. Along the way, you might spot wildlife, hear waterfalls in the distance, or stop at a lookout with endless views across valleys lit up in amber and gold.
But beautiful trails often come with muddy boots and earthy surprises.
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Why this rating:
- Muddy boots, especially after rain
- Leaf litter and soil stuck in treads
- Occasional puddles or soft ground
Be prepared with:
- Textured TPE floor mats – Trap dirt, grit, and water before it hits your floor.
- Spare clean shoes – Slip into something dry and clean for the drive home.
- Boot bag or waterproof tote – Isolate dirty footwear from the rest of your car.
- Portable boot brush or scraper – Quickly remove packed-in mud from treads.
3. Horse Riding Getaways
Think about a scenic trail horse ride with Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures in NSW or High Country Horse Riding in Victoria’s alpine region. There’s something timeless about horse riding — the rhythm of hooves, open air on your face, and the scent of the bush as you ride through paddocks and forest trails. Autumn is a spectacular time to saddle up, with cooler weather, golden foliage, and dustless tracks. Whether you’re enjoying a beginner-friendly ride at Glenworth Valley or venturing into Victoria’s high country for a more advanced trail, you’ll feel truly immersed in the land. It’s a rewarding way to see rural Australia while bonding with majestic animals in a peaceful, outdoor setting.
Of course, riding means dealing with the gear: dusty boots, bits of hay, and the occasional muddy hoofprint make their way into your car if you're not careful. Riding packs and saddle bags can also transfer dirt when tossed in the boot. A post-ride car clean-up is the last thing you’ll want after such a serene experience, so a little planning goes a long way.
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Why this rating:
- Dust and hay from riding gear
- Muddy or grassy shoes post-ride
- Saddle bags or equipment in the boot
Be prepared with:
- Durable, deep-grooved floor mats – Designed to handle hay, dust, and scuff marks.
- Rear boot liner – Protects your cargo area from gear and mud.
- Microfibre towel for dust removal – Wipe down gear before loading up.
- Hand vacuum for quick clean-up – Useful for loose hay or dirt tracked in.
4. Rail Trail Cycling
Cycling in autumn hits different. The air is cool, the scenery dramatic, and the traffic-free paths are a joy to cruise. Rail trails stretch across Australia, repurposing old railway corridors into long, scenic rides. On Victoria’s Murray to Mountains Trail, you can weave between wineries and foothills, while Queensland’s Brisbane Valley Rail Trail offers wide skies and country charm. These rides are great for solo cyclists, families, or weekend warriors who love a good mid-ride café stop.
Of course, even the smoothest trails can get dirty. Expect gravel in your cleats, mud splashes after a drizzle, or chain grease on your legs and hands. Your bike gear — helmet, shoes, gloves — may carry in more than just endorphins, and your car’s interior can take a hit. A few smart packing items can help you enjoy the ride without dreading the mess.
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Why this rating:
- Mud splashes from trail riding
- Gravel in shoes or bike cleats
- Chain grease and dirt on hands or legs
Be prepared with:
- High-edge TPE floor mats – Catch mud, stones, and grease before they spread.
- Chain grease towel or wipes – Clean hands and legs post-ride.
- Small container for helmet and shoes – Keep gritty items contained.
- Plastic seat cover or spare towel – Protect upholstery from sweaty or damp clothing.
5. Fruit Picking and Farm Visits
Heading out to a farm or orchard is one of autumn’s sweetest experiences — literally. The crispness of the air, the scent of ripe apples, and the joy of pulling fruit straight from the tree create lasting memories for families and friends. At places like Rayner’s Orchard or Sorell Fruit Farm, you’ll fill baskets with seasonal delights while enjoying fresh air and local hospitality. Kids love it, adults get nostalgic, and the camera roll fills fast. Try a visit to Rayner’s Orchard in the Yarra Valley or Sorell Fruit Farm in Tasmania — both perfect for filling baskets with seasonal treats.
But farms come with unpredictable terrain. Even well-kept orchards can have damp, uneven rows, especially after early-morning watering or overnight rain. Add in sticky juice, dropped fruit, and kids running wild, and you’re almost guaranteed to take home more than just produce. Plan ahead and you’ll bring back only the good stuff.
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Why this rating:
- Occasional sticky fruit or juice
- Slightly damp or muddy orchard rows
- Children’s shoes and clothes picking up grass or soil
Be prepared with:
- Wipe-clean floor mats – Quickly clean up any mud or sticky residue.
- Wet wipes and hand sanitiser – Tackle sticky fingers and spills fast.
- Picnic blanket or seat protector – Shields upholstery from damp clothes or food.
- Plastic-lined fruit basket – Prevents juice leakage from freshly picked produce.
6. Autumn Scenic Walks and Garden Visits
Looking for something slow-paced and soul-soothing? Scenic walks and garden visits are perfect for unwinding. Autumn brings out rich colours and soft sunlight that make everything feel a little more magical. Gardens like Mount Lofty or towns like Daylesford transform into picture books of red, amber, and gold. Couples stroll hand in hand, families spread out picnic rugs, and photographers chase golden hour through canopies of colour.
Paths are usually tidy, but leaves and loose gravel still find a way into shoes and car mats. And after a long walk or picnic, you might have a few damp spots or crumbs to manage. It’s a low-mess activity — but a bit of prep still makes the ride home more comfortable.
Try the colourful displays at Mount Lofty Botanic Garden in SA or take a heritage walk through Daylesford in Victoria.
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Why this rating:
- Dry leaves and dust on paths
- Occasional damp lawns or flowerbeds
- Low risk of major mud but debris is possible
Be prepared with:
- Edge-to-edge fitted mats – Cover every inch to catch leaves and grit.
- Soft shoe brush – Sweep off dust or debris before getting in.
- Foldable tote for footwear – Store shoes neatly if you switch to indoor shoes.
- Simple cloth for quick wipe-downs – Clean hands, gear, or seating surfaces.
7. Stargazing Escapes
Few things feel as peaceful as watching the night sky. Autumn offers clear, crisp evenings that make stars pop with clarity. Whether you’re lying on a rug at Lake Tekapo or adjusting a telescope in Warrumbungle National Park, stargazing invites quiet reflection and awe. Bring a thermos, wear extra layers, and spend hours tracking constellations, planets, and shooting stars. It’s an activity that requires almost no effort — just time, patience, and a love of nature.
Stargazing is usually tidy, but any camping-style setup can introduce dust, rug fibres, or snack crumbs into your vehicle. Folding chairs, telescope legs, and flasks can scuff interior panels or shift around in the boot. Still, it’s the lowest-mess option on this list — and easy to manage with a few simple tools
Dirt/Mud Rating: ⭐☆☆☆☆
Why this rating:
- Minimal direct dirt contact
- Potential for light gear scuffing or drink spills
- Some dust from campgrounds or gravel areas
Be prepared with:
- Rear cargo liner – Protects your boot space from telescope legs, tripods, or damp rugs.
- Rug or groundsheet for setup – Keeps you and your equipment dry and clean.
- Collapsible crates for gear – Organise and separate stargazing tools and snacks.
- Thermos and food container tray – Prevents spills from hot drinks or food flasks.
Travel Smart with Floor Mats That Can Handle It All
You don’t need to hold back your autumn fun just to protect your car. Our TPE custom-fit floor mats are made for all-weather, all-terrain adventures:
- Super Fit: Precision-designed for your specific car model. No shifting, no curling — just a snug, secure fit.
- Super Coverage: Up to 40% more coverage than standard mats. Our mats guard every crevice, keeping moisture and mess from reaching your carpets.
- Super Durable: No recycled rubber or weak materials — just long-lasting, high-performance mats that resist wear, cracking, and fading. Built to withstand Aussie conditions, from farm tracks to mountain roads.
Explore our collection and keep your adventures clean — no matter where the trail leads.
