Beginner's Guide to Off-roading in a Jeep
If you crave the power and control found in off road adventures, then it's only fair to find the perfect ride that will easily blaze through the rough, muddy terrain. But having that rugged Jeep isn't the only thing you need to have for a successful and adventurous off-road outing. You also need to prepare adequately for your own safety and that of your beloved Jeep. This guide gives you some hardy tips that will help you ace your first off-roading adventure in your lovely Jeep. Check the tips out.
Preparations When it comes to off-road adventures, it's not only vital to tune up, but also be adequately prepared to handle the rugged terrain. For this, you should take some time beforehand to source the necessary equipment, prep your Jeep, and get your friends psyched for the big day.
Some key aspects that your preparation should revolve around:
1.Pre-trip inspection
You should ensure your Jeep is in good condition before you hit the trail. You should ensure that the tires, including the spare, are properly inflated and the treads are in top notch condition so that they can withstand that slippery terrain you will encounter on the road.
Other important areas of the vehicle that you should pay attention to include the vehicle's fluids, especially that of the steering wheel, the coolant, differentials, and brake fluid. If you aren't a certified technician, it's advisable to visit your mechanic for a thorough check up and servicing.
2.Important equipment
Besides giving your Jeep a necessary once over, it's also important to find the equipment that will help you handle basic repairs if need be, shield you from extreme conditions, and communication equipment. This could mean anything from phone chargers to radio equipment. Key components in this category should include a tool box, a first aid kit, a jack, GPS navigation system, zip-lock plastic bag, and basic items such as toilet papers, a gas lighter, and a knife to name a few.
3.Understand the terrain
An off-road trip is nothing like what you've seen on Jeep commercials. There is no room for fast and furious stunts unless you want to have your Jeep broke in the middle of nowhere, leaving you stranded. To save yourself the trouble, take time to understand the terrain you will maneuver through and mark key locations such as towns, bodies of water, gas stations, etc.
4.Plan with your buddies.
Are your buddies totally psyched for your epic adventure?! Partnering with other off-road enthusiast won't just add a bunch of laughter to the adventure but your friends may come in handy in the event of emergency. Riding together will also mean you can brainstorm on how to handle the terrain once you are in the wild. Plan with your friends prior to the big day to ensure everything will be in place and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Tips to Keeping Safe and Enjoying the Off-roading Adventure
While you have the liberty to enjoy the adventure your way, these are the unwritten off-roading rules you should observe while on the go:
1. Stay on established trails
When driving off road, there will be plenty of temptations to veer off tracks made by other drivers. But as experienced drivers will tell you, driving off the trail is a surefire way to attract trouble. You may end up hitting holes, get stuck in mud paddles, and get your Jeep's tires deflated.
2. Drive at a moderate speed
Jeeps aren’t built to go fast. They’re built to go anywhere. The routes are unpredictable and there is a good chance of running into a wild animal. So, keep your speed at manageable levels so that you can maneuver with relative ease, even when an obstacle suddenly appears on your path.
3. Alert your friends if in trouble
It's always a good idea to keep another party in the know of your location while out in the woods. This can save you in the event your Jeep breaks down, gets stuck or if you get injured. The party should be aware of when you are leaving and the expected return time. This kind of arrangement should be done well before you start off. Better yet, bring another friend who enjoys taking his (or her) Jeep off-road.
4. Only park in open spaces
If you are planning to take a break, it's important to park your Jeep in an open space where it is visible by others. This minimizes possibilities of freak accidents and injury. You can also survey the surroundings for your own safety.
5. Don’t drive under the influence
While you should enjoy the sweet moments, avoid alcoholic beverages as they can alter your reasoning and judgment. This can lead to injuries to yourself, your passengers, or even worse, your Jeep! Plus, there is the obvious legal implications of a DUI. This can completely derail your life, cost you dearly financially and cost you your license. Save the drinks for back at home.
6. Embrace technology
There are hundreds of gadgets (Like this Garmin) and applications that you can leverage for basic but precise decision making such as best routes to take and understand the existing weather in areas of interest. You should make use of these or any other tool that make your decision making easier and one which boosts your safety as well.
Other areas to make your off-roading more enjoyable may include a change of clothes unless you enjoy riding around covered in mud. No judgment. Bring a flashlight. You never know how long you may be out there and if you need to work on your Jeep, this could be a lifesaver. Your first off-road outing in your new Jeep should be a moment of discovery and enjoyment. But for you to enjoy every moment of the adventure, you should be well prepared by having the necessary tools and equipping yourself with the right skills. If you are a beginner, the tips here will come in handy for a successful first off trip.
Most importantly, have fun!
Follow me on Twitter @MyWranglerLife