If you’ve ever thought about hitting the trails but weren’t sure where to start, you’re in the right place. Off-roading can be intimidating, but with the right prep, it’s easier than you think to get started. Summer is one of the best times to ease into it; longer days, dry trails, and good weather make it the perfect season to try something new and build up your off-road skills.
There are a multitude of terrains you can choose from when off-roading. From mudding to snow wheeling, there is something that will fit your vehicle and skill set. Each one comes with its own challenges and varies in difficulty, but in order to get fully comfortable in any setting, we need to start with the basics.
One of the best and safest ways to start off-roading is to go with a friend, or better yet, a group, with the same interest and more experience. This lets you learn the ropes without feeling the pressure of figuring it all out on your own. And let’s face it, having more people around can make the experience even more fun!
If you’re looking to meet people in the off-road community, clubs in your area, online forums, or even manufacturer-led meetups are great places to start. Social media pages are also a great way to get involved; there are a lot of great Facebook groups that are dedicated to meeting people who live for those trail runs. We know putting yourself out there can be intimidating, but trust us. People in the off-road community are super friendly and are always looking to welcome more people who are interested in learning.
For those who’d rather find their own trails, picking the right spot can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. No matter where you are, there are resources that are helpful in finding the perfect spot. We recommend looking for off-road parks that are near you or even heading over to your nearest national forest or public access land and seeing which trails you’re able to take your vehicle on. There are also a handful of government resources that are helpful in seeing which trails are popular, safe, and closest to you. The Bureau of Land Management and the US Forest Service are great websites that help you choose locations based on your interests, whether that be off-roading or doing other activities like camping and fishing. There are also a ton of mobile apps that you can use to find trails. Apps like Dyrt, All Trails, and onX Maps are great when you’re trying to find the right one. Just be sure to double-check that the trail you choose is beginner-friendly and that your vehicle can handle it.
Also, be sure to thoroughly plan your route and have the exact location of where you intend to go. Coordinates are one of the most accurate ways to pinpoint your location as they use precise latitude and longitude markers. It’s also a good idea to share this information with an additional party who isn’t joining you on your trip to be safe. And remember, as a beginner, it’s best to go with a friend who knows the area, so don’t go alone, especially if it’s your first time.
When you’re out on the trails, anything could happen, so it’s best to come prepared. The things that people bring can vary for every trip, but there are multiple things that are absolutely essential for you to have, regardless of where you’re going or how long your off-roading adventure lasts. Some of the main items we highly suggest bringing along include:
· Water and food
· A change of clothes
· A first aid kit
· Trash Bags
· Fire extinguisher
· A full spare tire with a full-sized jack
· Digital or Analog Maps: If using digital maps, download them to your phone ahead of time in case you lose service on the trail.
· Basic tools: lug wrench, adjustable socket wrench, screwdrivers
· Recovery equipment – tow strap/rope, shackles: Used to connect two vehicles to help pull or recover one from a tricky situation; good for beginners to have if a winch is not feasible.
While these things are a good base of items to bring along, there are additional items that we recommend bringing along if you, or your group, have them:
· Flat tire/tire/patch kit
· Tire inflator/air compressor
· Traction boards: Used to help vehicles regain traction in areas with soft terrain.
· Radios (CB, HAM, GMRS) or 2-way walkie-talkies: These can be helpful in communicating with other members in your group when cell service is unavailable.
· Winch: A mechanical device that has a spool of cable or rope that is usually mounted on vehicles; Used to help recover vehicles, but can be more expensive than other recovery equipment.
However, the best thing you can do before going on a trip is practice preventive preparation. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and will be able to handle the terrain you choose to tackle. This involves checking for any loose nuts and bolts on your wheels and ensuring your suspension, steering, and electrical systems are all good to go. Having off-road tires and wheels that are in great shape and filling up your vehicle with a full tank of gas is also essential when going on these trips. Make sure you test everything before heading out; you don’t want to wind up in a difficult situation, so it doesn’t hurt to double-check and prepare well.
While preparation is necessary in making sure your trip goes smoothly, there are other things you need to be aware of when you finally get off the road. Following proper trail etiquette is super important, not only for you and your group, but for the environment as well. One of the biggest things to keep in mind is to help out other people, which can mean offering to help tow someone out of a tricky spot or simply yielding the right of way to a driver coming uphill. Another thing to remember is to communicate with other drivers. This can be done using hand signals to show what your intentions are or using other methods of communication, such as walkie-talkies.
It’s also important to follow rules to help preserve the nature around you on these trails. Make sure to pack up all your trash and dispose of everything properly when you get the chance; Pack out everything you bring in. Also, remember to respect the wildlife in the area you choose to go off-roading. While seeing an animal on the trails is cool, please keep your distance, both for your safety and theirs, and do not disturb their habitats.
Make sure to stay on designated trails; don’t veer off your intended path, as it can ruin the terrain and ultimately be dangerous if you are unfamiliar with the area. If there are any nearby communities, be sure to be mindful of them. Don’t cause any issues and remain respectful of their land. Also, if your trip lasts overnight, be sure to read up on any rules certain areas may have pertaining to camping and campfires. Ultimately, one of the biggest end goals of your off-roading journey should be to have fun, but in order to properly do so, it is crucial to be mindful of everything around you and follow all rules to make the trip enjoyable and safe for everyone.
Now, before finally getting onto the trail, we recommend airing down your tires. By lowering your tire pressure, you increase your tire’s surface area and gain more contact with the ground. It allows for better traction in areas with difficult terrain, which is necessary for off-roading. How much you should air down is dependent on your vehicle; we highly recommend doing some research on the appropriate psi for airing down your tires. Just be sure to air up again before getting back on the street! Putting your vehicle in the right 4WD is also important, but the gear is dependent on the terrain and your rig. You also want to ensure that the wheels on your vehicle are suitable for the area you choose to go off-roading. We’ve got you covered there! Our Beadlock (FB/FBF) and Terra (FT) series have a variety of styles that not only look good, but will get you through any terrain with no issues. But again, doing the research and finding all the information applicable to you is also a huge part of ensuring you are properly prepared for your trails.
A few reminders for your first trip:
· Prepare your vehicle thoroughly; do those double checks and make sure it’s well-prepared for the terrain of your trail.
· Bring anything you think could help you out in an emergency like food and water, maps, tools etc.
· Traveling with an experienced driver can help you learn the basics and keep things running smoothly. Besides, having company is always a plus!
· Don’t do anything outside of your vehicle’s capabilities and your skillset; take it easy and start slow, especially if it’s your first time hitting the trails.
Off-roading definitely has a learning curve, but the challenge, views, and good company make it worth it. With the right prep, gear, and mindset, you’ll set yourself up for safe and unforgettable trips. So get your vehicle ready, pack your essentials, grab a friend, and hit the trails. We want to see where the summer takes you, so be sure to tag us @fittipaldioffroad on socials and use #FittipaldiSummerSetup for a chance to be featured!
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