An off-roading adventure can be the trip of a lifetime, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you aren’t well-prepared.
Off-roading typically equates to being far enough away from civilisation that if something does go wrong, you need to be able to sustain yourself until help arrives. As such, it’s imperative to plan and pack meticulously.
Have Your Vehicle Serviced
Take your vehicle in for a full service ahead of an off-roading trip and make sure that all mechanical and auto-electrical components are thoroughly checked.
Any and all problems need to be identified and rectified ahead of your trip, so this is not something that should be done on the cheap. Spend the money necessary to ensure safety and security.
Check Your Tyres and Spares
Your tyres are going to take a beating while off-roading so they need to be in great condition and the spare cannot be overlooked either. Check for wear and tear, damage such as cracks or cuts, or any foreign objects embedded in them.
Be sure to check the tread thoroughly as it should be 1.5mm deep across the entire tread surface. If not, replace the tyre immediately.
Plan Meticulously
Planning your route is as important as informing others of your plans – tell those who should know when you’re leaving, what your route will be, and when you’ll be back.
You don’t want your loved ones to worry since you’ll be far from home and your beloved Lucky Nugget Casino Canada.
Communication and Navigation
Be sure to pack your mobile phone and give it a full charge before departing. Pack a fully-charged power bank or car charger and it may be a good idea to only put your mobile on when you need to use it as this will conserve battery life.
A hand-held GPS is also a necessity on an off-road trip, so be sure to pack spare batteries and the car charger.
Basic Survival
Even on short trips, it’s important that you have plenty of water and food such as energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, and sports drinks.
Be sure to only pack items that do not require refrigeration and avoid overly salty foods unless you have plenty to drink.
Have Enough Fuel
Once you’re arrived at your destination, be sure to fill up your fuel tank before hitting the trail.
The on-third/two-third rule is a good guideline to follow: use a third of your tank to get to your destination, but conserve two-thirds for getting out – you never know when disaster may strike. It’s also a good idea to carry extra fuel outside the vehicle, never inside, as fuel fumes are toxic and explosive.
Carry Recovery Straps, Come-Alongs, and Wooden Blocks
Bring 1-2 recovery straps and a good-quality come-along is also a good idea if you don’t own a winch.
You should also have a few D-rings, a tree saver, gloves, a High-Lift jack, wooden blocks to support the jack if you’re on uneven ground, a toolkit, and a first-aid kit.