7 Things You Need to Have for Your Next Off-Roading Trip
Did you know that thrill-seeking activities like off-roading can release so-called happy chemicals in your brain? We did, and we want to tell you all about how you can make your next off-roading trip unforgettable!
Off-roading is a fast and fun activity that gets your heart pumping, but without the right off-roading necessities your trip could end up taking a turn for the worst. That is why we have put together this guide of the top 7 things you need for your next trip.
Let's get started!
1. Emergency Gear
Safety should always be your priority when off-roading. Studies show that there are hundreds of off-roading accidents each year, so being prepared for anything is essential to your safety.
In the event of a rollover, a seatbelt cutter is a must-have item. You might find that you are out of the area for service while you are off-roading, so having a long-distance radio and spare batteries is good practice.
First-aid kits are another essential to have in terms of emergency gear. Your kit should have things like an emergency blanket, tourniquet, antiseptic, etc. Finally, make sure to always have an ample supply of water on hand!
2. Tire Repair Kit
Off-roading can take you to some rough and rocky places and your tires can take a beating. Having a repair kit on hand could save your tires and save you from having to cut your off-roading trip short!
You should keep a can or two of fix a flat with you for emergency purposes as well. Make sure your tire repair kit also has things like extra valves and be sure to keep a jack handy as well. Keeping an old board with you is also a smart move as it will give you a stable surface to work on repairs.
Pro-Tip
Even the best tire repair kit can't fix bad tires. Before you hit the road you must do your research and find the best tires for your off-roading vehicle. Tires that are balding or not meant for off-roading could lead to damage or injury.
Look for all-terrain or mud-terrain tires for your off-roading vehicle. Additionally, the larger the tire the more clearance you will have while you are off-roading.
3. Recovery Kit
When you are off-roading there is always a chance that you can get yourself into a sticky situation. Having a recovery kit is essential for getting you unstuck so to speak.
Keep your recovery kit in an easily accessible place so you can get to it without hassle. Make sure that you are using a quality recovery kit from a reputable seller to avoid damage or injury. Always check your kit for wear and tear before and after each use.
4. Lighting
Having the proper lighting is important when you are off-roading. Most off-roading locations are in areas where there is little or no lighting after dark so your off-roading vehicle should have ample lighting.
Additionally, you should keep handheld and work lighting available at all times. LED bar lights have a great aesthetic for your vehicle, however, if they are not properly mounted they can cause issues such as glare so be sure to take the time to mount correctly.
5. Air Compressor
When you are off-roading you will want your tire pressure to be lower than it would normally be for on-road use. Lowering the pressure in your tires will help you gain traction while you are off-roading. With that being said, you will need to adjust the air pressure back to normal when you are finished off-roading
Keeping a quality air compressor is the easiest way to safely and quickly adjust the pressure in your vehicle's tires. Make sure that you get an air compressor with enough hose to easily reach all of your tires. Additionally, look for an air compressor that attaches to the battery of your off-road vehicle for the best outcome.
6. Portable Jump Starter
If your batteries die the last thing you are going to want to do is to wait around for someone to give you a jump! Portable jump starters can jump your battery without needing another vehicle. Just be sure to keep it on you at all times and make sure that it is fully charged before your trip.
Pro-Tip
In addition to keeping your batteries charged, you should always start with a full tank of gas at the beginning of your trip. Off-roading can eat a lot of gas and in most cases, you will not have a way to fill up while you are on your trip.
7. Navigation
You need to have some form of navigation system for every off-roading trip. Old school paper maps can be difficult to use when you are off-roading and they can distract from all the fun!
A navigation system that tracks your route in real-time is the best option. Having navigation can help you save routes that you enjoy for future trips and it will keep you safe.
Off-Roading Like a Pro
Off-roading is a blast — as long as you do it the right way! These 7 essentials are crucial to have a safe and exciting trip with no headaches. So whether you are a seasoned rock crawler, or new to the scene, follow this guide to make the most out of your off-roading experience.
We want to connect further with you on all things off-road! Visit us today to learn about how you can make your off-roading vehicle the envy of everyone on the trip!