Key takeaways

What is quad biking? 

Quad biking means riding a quad bike, also called an ATV, a small open vehicle with four large tyres built for off-road terrain such as sand, mud, gravel and forest trails. In the Fast Cover PDS, quad bikes come under recreational all-terrain vehicles, which also include trikes and buggies. On holiday, most people ride on a guided tour, either on their own quad bike or as a passenger behind a rider. 

Where to go quad biking on holiday

Quad biking tours run in many popular holiday destinations. Here are some favourites with Aussie travellers. 

• Quad biking in Bali: tours usually run for half a day through rice fields, villages, jungle trails and muddy river crossings, often around Ubud. Many include hotel pick-up and a change of clothes, as you're likely to get muddy. Our Bali travel guide has more ideas for your trip. 

• Quad biking in Australia: you don't have to go overseas to ride. Quad biking in Sydney's surrounds includes bush and valley tours within a few hours of the city, and there's beach and dune riding with quad biking on Stockton Beach in New South Wales. Quad biking on the Gold Coast heads into the hinterland, while quad biking in Cairns often includes rainforest trails. Our Australia travel guide has more ideas for a trip closer to home. 

• Quad biking in Dubai: desert safaris in Dubai often include quad biking on the sand dunes, sometimes combined with dune bashing in a four-wheel drive, usually booked as part of a desert tour with transfers from the city. 

• Quad biking in New Zealand: ATV tours run through farmland, forest and backcountry trails, with many near popular towns. Our New Zealand travel guide has more ideas for your trip.

• Quad biking in Greece: many travellers hire a quad bike to explore the Greek islands, where it's a common way to get between beaches and villages.

• Quad biking in Vietnam: tours run on the sand dunes of Mui Ne, often at sunrise or sunset. Our Vietnam travel guide covers more to see and do.

Rules on hiring and riding differ between countries, so it's worth checking local requirements and Smartraveller advice for your destination. 

Choosing a quad biking tour 

A guided tour with an established, licensed operator is a good way to start. When comparing quad biking tours and ATV tours, consider: 

• Licensing and reviews: check that the operator is properly licensed and look at recent reviews.

• Safety briefing: a good operator explains the controls and safety rules, and lets you practise before setting off.

• Safety gear: check that helmets and gloves are provided and that they fit.

• Group size and guides: smaller groups with an experienced tour guide at the front and back are easier for beginners.

• The route: choose a trail that suits your experience, and ask how long you'll be riding. 

• What's included: look for transfers, clothing, water and photos, and what happens if bad weather cancels your tour.

What to wear quad biking 

Quad biking can be dusty, muddy and hot, so dress for comfort and protection. Quad bike safety equipment and clothing to consider includes: 

• a properly fitted helmet (usually supplied by the operator)

• protective gloves

• closed-toe shoes with a good grip, such as sneakers or hiking shoes

• long pants and a light long-sleeved top to protect your skin

• eye protection, such as sunglasses or goggles, against dust and insects

• sunscreen and water, especially on long or desert rides

• clothes you don't mind getting muddy, plus a change for afterwards

If you're relying on travel insurance for quad biking, check the conditions of cover: with Fast Cover, cover depends on wearing protective gloves and a crash helmet suitable for the activity, among other conditions.* 

Is quad biking safe? 

Like any adventure activity, it carries risks, and quad bikes can tip over on slopes, uneven ground or sharp turns. Choosing a licensed operator, wearing the right gear and riding within your ability all help reduce the risk.

Age and passenger rules 

Operators set their own rules, such as a quad biking age limit for riders and passengers, and some have weight limits or require riders to hold a driver's licence. It's worth checking these when you book, especially if you're travelling with children. 

Riding within your experience 

Quad bikes handle differently from cars and motorcycles. Take your time to get used to the controls, keep a safe distance from the rider in front and follow your guide's directions on speed and route.

Quad biking tips for first-timers 

Here are some quad biking tips for beginners:

• Listen carefully to the safety briefing and ask questions if anything is unclear.

• Practise in the training area until you're comfortable with the throttle and brakes.

• Keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footrests.

• Slow down on corners, slopes and loose ground.

• Stay on the marked trail and keep the group in sight.

• Avoid jumps, racing and stunts.

• Stay hydrated and take breaks on long rides.

Travel insurance and quad biking 

Quad biking isn't always automatically covered by travel insurance. With Fast Cover, quad biking isn't automatically covered, but cover may be available if you add the Adventure Pack and you:* 

• ride under the direct supervision of a properly licensed recreational organisation

• obey all relevant safety codes

• wear protective gloves and a crash helmet suitable for the activity

• ride as a single rider, with a maximum of one passenger

• don't take part in jumping, racing or competition.

The Adventure Pack is available to Aussie travellers aged 74 and under at the date of policy issue, and isn't available with the Basics policy.* 

If you're injured while quad biking overseas, Fast Cover's international policies may be able to help with overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses, in circumstances covered under your policy.*

Find out more about travel insurance for quad biking.

Expert tip

"Adventure activity operators often ask you to sign a waiver on the day, and some offer their own cover for an extra fee, with terms you may only have a few minutes to read. Before you travel, check whether your adventure activity is covered. Some activities are included in our standard policies, and others can be covered by adding our Adventure Pack to an eligible Fast Cover policy. Limits, conditions, exclusions apply. For example, you may need to use a licensed operator and follow their instructions. Overseas medical costs can be very expensive, so it’s worth checking before you go." — Dean Van Es, Fast Cover CEO

General advice only, and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to making a decision.