Prepare

Better safe, than sorry.

One of the best parts of wheeling is that you never quite know what to expect, which is why its also important to prepare for any setbacks or extraordinary circumstances. Even if you may not need a particular item for yourself or your Jeep, a member of your group or even another group on the trail may be in need. By being prepared, you can make a huge difference in everyones experience.

What exactly should you bring, or consider bringing?

First Aid Kit

You will want a comprehensive first aid kit on board at least one of the Jeeps/trucks or ATVs that are out on the trail with you. That said, it’s a good idea to have some additional first aid supplies on you just in case.

What to Put in Your Off-Road First Aid Kit:
– Safety Glasses & Gloves
– Fire Extinguisher
– Tarp
– Flashlights
– Matches or a Lighter
– Toilet Paper
– Hand Sanitizer
– Water Purification Tablets
– Maps
– Garbage Bags
– Tool Kit
– Snap Ring Pliers
– Air Pressure Gauge
– Portable Air Pump
– Jumper Cables

Food, Water & Snacks

You will almost always end up out longer than anticipated, so make sure you are prepared with food, snacks, and water. Plus, if you are unable to get back, or someone has dietary needs, its important to have these supplies stocked up.

Always bring lots of drinking water — water does not go bad, so you can always stock up and save some for later. Water can be used for cleaning wounds, drinking, boiling for sterilization, and cooking. Double up on the water inventory too – you never know how much you will need for you or your group and who you may come across that needs some help too.

Warm clothes, change of clothes & blankets

Pack a gym bag with socks, t-shirts, hoodies, pants, and an extra pair of footwear. When you are out in the woods or the desert with all kinds of terrain, you never know how the weather conditions can change. Sometimes a storm will roll in and, if you did not plan on being out after dark, its nice to be able to add some layers when the sun goes down and the night cools off.

Its always a good idea to pack blankets or sleeping bags and a pillow, just in case you have to stay out overnight due to a mechanical failure. Who knows, you may just feel like living in the moment and sleeping under the stars.

Communication: CB Radio, Cell Phone & GPS ability

A CB is a great tool with an awesome range. If you are going off-roading in small groups and to more remote and less active locations, then a CB is a must – plus they are a blast to use. You will want to know all the emergency channels and how to operate your CB so you can gauge your location and be able to communicate it in case of an emergency.

Most cell-phones are equipped with some sort of GPS functionality. However, coverage areas can be limited and cell phone location data is sometimes vague. When you’re off-roading in remote locations, there is no replacement for a dedicated GPS unit. If you are faced with a life-threatening emergency, then accuracy and time are key — and your phone GPS may not boast this accuracy.

Although a cell phone is a great tool to bring along, the downfall can be the battery and signal. Make sure to have an extra cell phone charger in your rig and possibly an external power source just in case.

PREPARE before you head out!