Safety check

Let’s make this clear. What you see depicted in video games and movies is far from a normal trail ride. The majority of off-roading happens in low gears and relatively low speeds. A common phrase from the legendary Camel Trophy events perfectly sums up how you should approach the trail: As slowly as possible, as fast as necessary.

Make no mistake, venturing off the pavement isn’t an easy task. Even the simplest trail rides require much knowledge and technique. There are inherent risks to taking your vehicle off-road. The more aware you are of those risks, the safer you’ll be.

Being prepared and staying safe will gain you credibility within the recreational 4X4 community. Being stupid won’t. Like your mother always said, “Don’t be the person who ruins it for everyone.” Doing something dangerous or reckless for the sake of a few likes on social media has no place in this sport. Be courteous and respectful to all fellow drivers and the environment.

WEAR YOUR SEATBELT

By this point in your life, you should know to always wear your seatbelt, UNLESS you are crossing a river or stream. This is the only exception, ensuring that you can quickly evacuate the vehicle.

KNOW YOUR SURROUNDINGS

Survey the land before driving, and adhere to all environmental regulations.

NEVER STAND OR LET ANYONE STAND IN YOUR VEHICLE

Keep arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.

SOFT-TOP VEHICLES MUST HAVE A ROLL BAR

This is imperative for your safety in the event that your vehicle flips.

NEVER TRAVEL ALONE

If you must go solo, let someone know where you’ll be.

THUMBS UP

Avoid steering with your thumbs inside the steering wheel. Obstacles may cause the steering wheel to spin out of your hands, and the spokes can injure or even break your thumbs.

BE AWARE DURING RECOVERY

Stay clear of winches, tow straps or any recovery equipment used on the trail. These may break and can cause severe injury.

NO DRUGS OR ALCOHOL

Keep it off the trail.

PROPERLY DISPOSE OF CIGARETTE BUTTS

Beyond the fact that littering is completely uncool, cigarette butts can start a brush or forest fire.

If you’re going to smoke, submerge the cigarette in water for 3 seconds before disposing of it in a proper receptacle.

GEAR UP BEFORE YOU GO

According to Jim Allen, author of the critically-acclaimed Four-Wheeler’s Bible, there are basic vehicle supplies that should be packed before embarking on any four-wheel adventure.

  • Front and rear towing points

  • Tow strap

  • Full-sized spare tire

  • Trusted tool kit

  • More-capable-than-stock jack

  • Spare vehicle parts

  • Basic first aid kit

  • Portable air compressor

  • Duct tape

  • Jumper cables

  • WD-40

  • Bailing wire

  • Zip ties

Something went wrong, please retry later