Are you planning to go off-roading? If so, there are some essential things you need to do before hitting the trails. Whether it’s a short excursion or an extended journey, preparation is key for a safe and successful journey.
In this article we’ll explore the top six things to do before starting an off-road adventure.
Know your Vehicle and the Area You’re Going To
Before you can set off, you must know your vehicle inside out as well as the area you will be travelling in. Be sure to inspect your vehicle prior to leaving; check the oil levels, brakes, tires and any other components that may be prone to malfunctioning.
Additionally, if taking an unfamiliar route it’s important that you research the area and plan accordingly. Pay particular attention to terrain features such as inclines, dips and water crossings. Knowing what’s ahead can help you decide where best to drive on your trip.
Have a look at maps of popular routes used by other off-roaders and don’t forget to bring an emergency kit along with you in case something goes wrong.
Plan Your Route and Make Sure You Have a Map or GPS
Once familiar with your vehicle’s capabilities, make sure that you have mapped out your route beforehand – use either a GPS or paper map depending on what works best for you. This will help ensure that no matter how remote or unpredictable the terrain is on your journey.
There will always be a plan intact which gives peace of mind should anything go awry during your off-road adventure. Make sure that if using paper maps they are up-to-date so that keys roads or access points aren’t closed due to construction work or changes in terrain since the last print out of the maps were made.
Pack Snacks and Water
It’s also important not just to bring food but also high energy snacks such as trail mix, protein bars and nuts which provide much needed fuel for lengthy journeys on rough terrain.
Bring plenty of water too so everyone has enough hydration throughout their trip – especially if travelling through warmer climates where dehydration can become a serious health risk quickly without proper hydration.
Bring a First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen when out on an off-road adventure – whether it be rolling over in deep mud puddles or falling over while hiking. So it’s important to always have a first aid kit nearby containing bandages, antiseptic wipes/creams etc. should anything occur while out exploring nature’s trails, as well as helping take care of minor cuts and scrapes on yourself
First aid kits can also come in handy when helping others who may have been injured from one thing or another during their travels too!
Pack Spare Batteries, Preferably Lithium Batteries
When out in remote areas having spare batteries for navigation devices becomes essential – lithium batteries are preferred due to their longer lasting power compared with regular ones.
Meaning that if running low then reliable ones like Lithium LifePO4 Batteries in Australia – VicOffRoad will last longer than their more common counterparts allowing time for repairs/replacements if ever needed!
Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Finally don’t forget to tell someone where exactly you are going before setting off and when they expect you back. This way they can contact authorities should something go wrong which would result in being unable to reach them during agreed upon times each day/night during travels!
Conclusion
Off-roading is one of life’s greatest joys however preparation is key so make sure all necessary steps are taken prior beginning any trip!
By following these simple tips above anyone embarking on an adventurous journey into unknown lands can rest assured knowing they have done all they could do before heading out into wild open spaces!
