6 Quick Off-Roading Tips for Beginning Adventurers

Off-roading. Just the name sounds rugged, doesn’t it? Well, if it sounds rugged, we’re automatically in.

However, you might find some of your confidence seeps away once it’s time to actually drive off the pavement. And that’s not unwarranted.

Off-roading is a popular outdoors activity for a reason, but it carries some risk and requires a bit of preparation . So, before you go out and try to face the wilderness alone (actually, don't do that at all), The ROP Shop’s Rugged U has some off-roading tips to help keep you safe while having fun on your adventures.

1. Be ready for emergencies

We put this one first because it's crucial. Hopefully you’ll never have to be thankful for your preparedness, but it would be foolish not to be ready in case something goes wrong. When you’re off-roading, make sure you’re ready for anything that comes your way. This might include packing a change of clothes, a flashlight, flares, food and water, a first-aid kit, and more. ^{1, 2}

Don't forget to include recovery gear in your emergency kit, either.

2. Bring some friends

Hobbies are more fun when they’re shared, right? In this case, it’s more than fun—it’s smart and very much recommended.^{1, 2}

Having someone else along (preferably in another vehicle) can be a good source of support if something goes wrong. For example, they can act as a spotter or help tow you out of a mud puddle.

In a related vein, let someone know where you’ll be going before you set out so they can watch for your return or notify someone if things go wrong. Clear communication in this area will give you (and others) peace of mind, and you’ll be able to focus your energy on the task at hand: having fun and staying safe while you're off-roading.

3. Lower your tire pressure

This will make for a smoother ride and increase your traction over difficult terrain.

4. Know the terrain

It’s a good idea to plan out where you’re going beforehand and get a handle on the conditions so you can know what to expect. This also applies to water obstacles when you approach them in real time—check the depth before proceeding.¹ You don’t want to underestimate the water’s depth and wind up losing control of your vehicle.

5. Consider other equipment and modifications

Depending on the specific type of off-roading you’ll be doing, you may need to make modifications to your vehicle (such as putting on larger tires) or bring along extra equipment (like a winch).³ Don’t just assume that just because your vehicle can be used for off-roading that it must already be prepared for it. Know your vehicle’s capabilities and limitations. Pushing it too far is a recipe for disaster.

Off-roading: final thoughts

With these off-roading tips under your belt, you should be feeling more confident to take on the challenge of the (unpaved) outdoors. We wish you many hours of off-roading fun.

Curious to learn more? We have lots of blogs to help you get back to the outdoors. Why not learn about a new way to enjoy the outdoors with our primer on drift trikes or check our quick guide to tire chains to enhance your off-roading experience?

[REVISED 2/2023]