We all know that driving through off-road tracks is very thrilling and can be a great hobby. It can also be a good pastime for families and friends as you’ll set out to explore the countryside. But like many other things in life, and off-roading trip needs enough planning and coordination.
So, how do you make an off-roading trip memorable? You need to prepare. Make sure that you have the right equipment before heading out to the 4WD track so that you’ll never encounter any issues along the way. Also, you should see if your vehicle is in its best condition.
If you are just starting now, it can be difficult to find which make or model of equipment gives you the best bang for the buck. But you don’t need to worry! We have compiled a list of the best ones that we recommend. So, read more to find out!
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The Basic 4WD Equipment
Our Top Picks For Tyre Care:
VIAIR 400P-Automatic Function Portable Compressor
What we liked:
First of all, this compressor can function automatically so that’s a big plus. Aside from that, it can handle an internal pressure of up to 145 PSI and once it reaches that point, it will shut off. The compressor can also inflate tires up to 35 inches from 0 to 30 PSI in under 5 minutes! It also has an inflation gun where you can monitor the current tire pressure.
What we didn’t like:
This equipment is only 12 volts DC, if you want to connect it to your house’s power plugs, you will need a 12 V DC power supply that can meet the required amperage. Aside from that, it can also get very hot so you need to keep children and combustible materials away.
Boulder Tools Heavy Duty Tire Repair Kit
What we liked:
The best thing about this product is that it is very durable. Also, its strings provide a good safety seal which is stronger and can be repaired more easily compared to the ones on other kits. It is also compatible not only with your 4WD vehicle but also with ATVs, motorcycles, tractors, lawnmowers, RVs, dirt bikes, and trucks. The kit also includes high-quality tools like pliers and a tough case to keep everything well-organized. But the best part is it has a 1-year warranty so you’ll be covered whenever you encounter issues. It is also a testament that the manufacturer trusts that the product can withstand the constant beatings of the outdoors.
What we didn’t like:
The kit can be a bit pricey compared to other options that can also be found online but if you’re lucky (or keep an eye on it), you can snatch some deals that can slash the price significantly.
ARB ARB505 E-Z Deflator Kit
What we liked:
The ARB E-Z Deflator Kit’s deflator is made out of corrosion-resistant brass/steel so you can ensure that it will survive the rough environments of the off-road tracks. It also has a high-quality bronze bourdon tube which maintains its accuracy while being immune to external factors like temperature, humidity, and altitude. But the most important factor why we picked this is because of the very easy to read and accurate dial that makes using it a breeze even for beginners.
What we didn’t like:
If not properly connected, it can leak so make sure that you follow the instructions written on the Owner’s Manual or check out videos on YouTube showing how to do it properly.
Our Top Picks For Off-roading Shovels
Hi-Lift Jack HA-500 Handle-All Multi-Purpose Tool
What we liked:
The Hi-Lift Jack has a very convenient telescoping handle so it’s very compact and is perfect if you want to carry a lot of other supplies and equipment. The kit also comes with a full-size shovelhead, sledge hammerhead, and axe and pickaxe heads. To protect your investment, the kit’s gear bag is made from a very durable nylon material.
What we didn’t like:
The handle can be a bit slippery in wet conditions. The shovel is also a bit short so it can be difficult to use for taller people.
Our Top Picks For Off-road Communications Devices
Uniden CMX760 Bearcat Off-Road Series
What we liked:
The CB radio is very compact and has a display which makes using it very intuitive. It is also designed for off-road use (which means that it can withstand the elements), so you can use it without encountering issues in the years to come. It can also be easily mounted on any vehicles where space is at a premium. It also covers 40 frequencies in the Citizens Band Radio Service so you’ll surely reach anyone if you need to ask for assistance in case of emergency.
What we didn’t like:
If you are in a noisy environment, you need to use an external speaker because it’s very difficult to hear the person on the other line.
BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen)
What we liked:
The third iteration of the UV-5R has twice the power of the previous generation (now 8 watts compared to 4) and it also has a more durable shell. The new model also has a 30% bigger battery and a better antenna performance with the V-85 High Gain Antenna. It also has a range of high/medium/low power options so it can cover almost any bands available. The radio also has a concierge service and an in-depth manual to guide new users on how to use the device. Aside from that, it is better than a lot of other radio as it has a full year of warranty from the manufacturer.
What we didn’t like:
You need to reprogram the radio first because it is very powerful and can access restricted frequencies which can land you in trouble with both the military and FCC.
Our Top Picks For Off-road Recovery Tools with a Buddy
ALL-TOP Nylon Recovery Kit with Hitch Receiver
What we liked:
The ALL-TOP Nylon Recovery Kit is made from 100% Nylon N66 which makes it very elastic. It also has a D-ring made from specially treated carbon steel and a hitch receiver made from durable aluminum. So, it can withstand a lot of wear and tear. As it comes with a LIFETIME WARRANTY, you can avail of the hassle-free replacement and free servicing.
What we didn’t like:
None!
GearAmerica Recovery Tow Strap 4” x 30’
What we liked:
The best thing about this product is that you can use it as a tow strap, recovery strap, tree saver strap, or winch extension strap. So, it is extremely versatile and can be used in almost all situations. It also comes bundled with an oversized storage bag to fit all your towing supplies like hooks, gloves, and shackles, and it also comes with a convenient loop and hooks tie to keep all of it organized. The tow strap can also have 45K lbs. MBC (Minimum Break Capacity) and 15K lbs. WLL (Working Load Limit), so it can tow large trucks, pull heavy equipment, or move large debris. Aside from that, it also has large double-web-loop ends that are padded and reinforced to withstand constant wear and tear and high tension. But the most important factor for off-roaders is its ruggedness, luckily this tow strap can handle extreme loads at extreme temperatures. It also has mildew, moisture, and UV resistance so you can use it for a very long time.
What we didn’t like:
Some versions of the product can unstitch with repeated use (especially with recovery).
ARB ARB501 Orange Large Recovery Bag
What we liked:
The ARB ARB501 has a main pocket insert that is coated to protect it from mud and waterproofing when keeping soiled and wet recovery gear. It is also easily removable so you can clean it immediately. The bag also has a padded shoulder strap for easy carrying and increased comfort, lockable cargo straps to keep your gear in place in the rough terrain. Aside from that, it has two side pockets for gloves and bow shackles. Durability is also a priority as it is made from heavy-duty cotton canvas that can carry up to 30 kg and have high-twist webbing straps to increase its maximum strength.
What we didn’t like:
Some people who bought the product reported that the side pockets can blow out from the bottom, but luckily you can use the 2-year warranty that comes with the product to replace it.
Our Top Picks For Self-recovery Tools
X-BULL New Recovery Traction Tracks
What we liked:
The X-BULL has raised tracks to help prevent your tires from spinning on snow, sand, mud, or ice. So, you can be assured that you can recover your vehicle without pushing or towing. The traction tracks also have a UV-stabilized and resilient design which makes it ideal for off-road use.
What we didn’t like:
It’d be better if they can be folded or made to be more compact as it can be difficult to store them especially if you have limited storage space.
Torin TR6502B Big Red 60” Ratcheting Off-Road Jack
What we liked:
This off-road jack can be used for lifting, clamping, winching, pulling, and spreading and it has a lifting range of 5.12” to 51.77” and 3-ton load capacity. The multi-directional jack is also very lightweight and has a rubberized grip on the handle that provides comfort and a better hold. Aside from off-roading, it can also be used for farm-related applications and emergencies. The jack’s fast lifting mechanism also ensures that you can do it safely and quickly while the wide base adds to the stability. Its appeal for outdoor use lies mainly in its corrosion-resistant, powder-coated finish, and zinc-plated hardware that is tested to meet the ASME B30.1 standards for safety and reliability.
What we didn’t like:
The jack’s paint can cause it to become stuck.
Hi-Lift ORB Off-road Base Accessory Jack
What we liked:
This base accessory jack can prevent the jack from sinking especially on soft terrain. It does this by making use of its serrated teeth along one side to scrape or level ground for base. It also has a drilled hole in the middle of the base to easily store it on the jack bar. It can also withstand constant abuse as it has a rugged construction for strength and durability and is compatible with all jacks from the same brand (as well as jacks from other manufacturers).
What we didn’t like:
The serrated teeth can be a bit awkward to use.
Hi-Lift Jack BL-250 Bumper Lift
What we liked:
The rugged, capable HI-Lift jack is specifically designed for use with flat bumpers but when you add its 3000 lbs. capacity, it increases its capability to include the majority of metal bumper vehicles. It is also designed to fit most curved steel bumpers. Aside from that, it is made from heavy-duty steel which guarantees that it will last for a long time. But most importantly, it is very easy to use.
What we didn’t like:
The opening should have been slightly wider because some bumpers can be a bit challenging to fit. Plus, if you have this issue, the only way to resolve it is to tap it free with a hammer.
Hi-Loft Jack LM-100 Lift-Mate
What we liked:
This jack can lift a wheel or the entire vehicle from the wheel. It also reduces the travel that is needed from the jack bar to lift the wheel at an adequate and safe height. Aside from that, it has a 5000 lbs. capacity and has rubber-coated hooks to protect the wheels.
What we didn’t like:
The rubber coating has a foul smell and it can cause damage to the vehicle if you don’t follow the instructions exactly as the manufacturer wants them.
ARB 72X10 Orange Bushranger X-Jack Kit
This kit can be used in very unstable terrain like mud, sand, and, snow. It also offers a larger footprint to avoid sinking as well as triangular shaped feet to keep it firmly planted to the ground. To add more protection and stability, it also has a triple-layer top and hardcore insert. Aside from that, it has a two-way inflation system which can be used with either the exhaust or a portable air compressor.
Related Questions
Is Off-Roading Bad For Your Truck?
Though many times people will drive their stock vehicles, which “can” off-road but can lead to specific types of wear and tear on the vehicle due to the rougher conditions. Before taking your vehicle off-road, be sure that you can risk your car being damaged.
How Big Of A Recovery Strap Do I Need?
Recovery straps range in length and can be 20-40 feet and 2-6 inches wide. Generally, each inch of width will allow you to pull about 10,000 lbs. So if you have a 4-inch wide strap, you could pull up to 40,000 lbs.
Can SUV Go Off-road?
There are two main systems available for SUVs to go off-road, All Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four Wheel Drive (4WD). AWD is usually a lighter system that drives through two wheels (usually the front), only engaging the other axle when it starts to lose traction.
Can You Off-Road With A 2WD Vehicle?
2WD vehicles aren’t necessarily more dangerous off-road, but they may be harder to navigate over rugged terrain, which means you might wind up getting stuck [source: Burke]. Whether you take a 2WD or a 4WD off-roading, you want it to be well equipped.
Do All Terrain Tires Reduce Gas Mileage?
All terrain tires do not have the same fuel quality as passenger car tires, but will also not boost fuel consumption as much as their cousins on the mud terrain. … They also have a larger effect on fuel economy. The consensus is, that on average, all-terrain tires decrease fuel economy by about 3% compared to highway tires.
Will All Terrain Tires Help A 2WD Truck?
What are all-terrain tires good for? You might think A/T tires only benefit 4WD vehicles, but putting all-terrain tires on a 2WD truck can make a big difference. In fact, Traction News says that “a good set of all-terrain tires on a two-wheel-drive vehicle can outperform bad tires on a four-wheel-drive truck.
How Much Ground Clearance Do I Need For Off-road?
Minimum ground clearance for gravel tracks ranges between 6.6 inches and 8.7 inches. For over-landing, your ground clearance should range between 8.8in to 9.4in. A minimum height of 10.8 inches and above is required for tough graded 4×4 tracks and rock crawling.
Do I Really Need 4WD Vehicle?
Generally, 4WD and AWD are necessary if you live in a climate where it snows and rains a lot. If you drive on dirt roads that are frequently muddy, then either can be a blessing. But if you drive mostly on the highway and live in a temperate climate, you’re likely better off spending your money elsewhere.
Do Lifted Trucks Ride Rough?
Lifting your truck can also lead to some suspension problems. You might notice less suspension damping during long trips and on rough, uneven roads, but this only tends to be an issue if you’re lifting your truck more than a few inches.
