Top 10 Off-Roading Essentials

1. Jump starter – Heading off the main roads means you’ll likely be far from the nearest source of power or another driver, and sometimes even completely alone (even though we definitely do not advise that). The good news is that if you break down, you no longer need to rely on another vehicle to jump your own. A portable self-jump starter is all you need to save the day. Just be sure to keep it fully charged so it’s ready when you need it!
2. Lights – Off-roading at night under the stars is undeniably amazing — but the dark can also be dangerous and inconvenient. Breaking down at night poses more risk than during the day so you need to come prepared. You’ll want to bring along a few different kinds of lights to assist you in different possible scenarios.
   1. Work light – For covering large areas
   2. Head lamp – For small, tight spaces and single-person use
   3. Flashlight – For venturing away from your vehicle
3. Map – As much as we love to rely on technology, sometimes it doesn’t deliver. Off-roading often takes you away from cell service and forces you to rely on the basics. Grabbing a map of the area and looking it over before you head out can save you from getting lost or even stranded.
4. Tool set – You never know what can happen, or what you’ll need to fix it. Bring along your tool kit as a "just in case."
5. Recovery kit – Off-road recovery can be a difficult and very dangerous process — so it needs to be taken seriously. Having the right recovery kit for your vehicle easily accessible to you is crucial to your safety and the safety of any passengers. Recovery kits come in many different forms with different items, but they all typically include a recovery strap, snatch block, shackles and a tree trunk protector. When searching for a kit, check for weight ratings to ensure the straps included are sturdy enough for your vehicle — as a rule of thumb, the snatch strap minimum breaking strength should be three to four times the weight of your vehicle. If you’re struggling to find a kit that’s right for your vehicle, you can purchase these items separately, or even grab an extra rope for backup. WeatherTech’s Kinetic Recovery Rope System is available for various vehicle weights and it’s soft and lightweight — so it won’t damage vehicle recovery points like other ropes can. Once you’ve found the right tool for you, take the time to familiarize yourself with each item and learn how it will work to assist your vehicle.

6. Traction boards – It’s inevitable that you will eventually get stuck with no anchor points or other vehicles in sight to assist you — this is where traction boards come in to save the day. Place them under your tires and regain traction to get your vehicle out of a sticky situation.
7. Shovel – If not included in any of your recovery/repair kits, having a compact, foldable shovel on hand can be a big help when it comes to vehicle extractions.
8. Tire repair kit – Tires are the most important and most vulnerable part of any vehicle. Be ready to make any necessary repairs along your route with the proper tools.
9. Portable air compressor – Dropping the air pressure in your tires can increase traction for better off-roading. But once you’re done, you’ll need to bring your tire pressure back to the recommended amount for your safety and the quality of your tires. Having an air compressor on hand allows you to conveniently fill your tires and get back to the main road.
10. Work gloves – All the possibilities we’ve discussed can be hard on your hands, that’s why a good pair of work gloves is a necessity. Pack a pair that will protect your hands and enhance your grip for an easier time with some of these tasks.

Now that you know how to best prepare for off-roading emergencies or mishaps, you can head out with excitement that’s backed by confidence. Still not sure where you’re going? Check out this blog about the top scenic U.S. off-roading destinations to find the perfect place for your next adventure.