Off-roading is an activity full of passion and challenges, but it is crucial to be well-prepared and have relevant knowledge before setting off. Here are 10 suggestions summarized for off-road lovers, hoping to help you have a safer and more enjoyable off-road journey.
#1 Plan the Route in Advance
Before going off-road, be sure to plan the route in detail. Use professional maps or off-road navigation apps to get important information such as terrain, road conditions, water sources, gas stations, etc. At the same time, consult experienced off-roaders in advance. Their experience can help you avoid some potential dangers.
For example, if you plan to cross a desert area, know the distribution and height of sand dunes and possible quicksand areas in advance.
#2 Inspect the Vehicle
Ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Check the tire wear and pressure, brake system, suspension system, engine oil, and radiator water level, etc. Also, install suitable off-road tires and protective devices such as underbody shields and bumpers.
Once, an off-roader didn't check the brakes before departure and had a brake failure on a steep downhill section, resulting in a serious accident.
#3 Carry Necessary Equipment
Prepare sufficient water, food, first aid kits, tool kits, tow ropes, fire extinguishers, tents, sleeping bags, etc. Especially in remote areas, this equipment might save your life at critical moments.
Once, a driver's vehicle broke down in the mountains. Fortunately, he had enough food and water, as well as a tool kit, and was able to survive during the two-day wait for rescue.
#4 Understand Your and Your Vehicle's Capacity
Don't exceed your driving skills and the vehicle's performance limits. Clearly know what kind of terrain and slopes your vehicle can handle and avoid taking blind risks.
Once, someone drove an ordinary SUV to attempt to climb a very difficult rock slope, resulting in severe damage to the vehicle.
#5 Pay Attention to Weather Changes
Check the weather forecast in advance and avoid off-roading in bad weather conditions. Heavy rain, lightning, snowstorms, etc. will increase the risks of off-roading.
During an off-road activity, sudden heavy rain may cause the river water level to rise, trapping some vehicles.
#6 Act as a Team
Try to off-road with experienced teammates and look out for and help each other. In times of difficulty, the power of the team can often play a huge role.
Once, when a team was crossing the jungle, one vehicle got stuck in the mud. Teammates worked together and finally succeeded in towing the vehicle out.
#7 Respect the Environment
During the off-road activities, do not damage the natural environment, do not litter at will, and minimize the impact on the ecology.
In some areas, due to the uncivilized behavior of off-roaders, vegetation has been damaged and the ecological balance disrupted.
#8 Maintain Communication
Carry a satellite phone or other reliable communication equipment and inform family or friends of your itinerary and estimated return time.
Once, an off-roader got lost in the mountains. Due to no mobile phone signal, he couldn't contact the outside world. Fortunately, he was finally found by rescue workers.
#9 Learn Basic Maintenance Skills
Master some basic vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting skills, such as changing tires and handling simple circuit problems.
In the wild, if you can solve a small fault yourself, you can avoid a lot of trouble.
#10 Stay Calm
When encountering difficulties and unexpected situations, stay calm and do not panic. Calmly think about solutions and rationally utilize the resources around you.
In conclusion, off-roading is a very charming but also risky activity. Following these suggestions can make your off-road journey safer and more wonderful.