If you’re anything like me and love owning a 4×4, the prospect of off-road adventures is something you will look forward to. Whether you’ve just purchased your first 4×4 or are planning a road trip, ensuring your vehicle is ready for the ride is vital.
Even if you primarily use your Land Rover or comparable vehicle for driving around the city, it is already set to perform on an off-road adventure. If you crave a delightful drive without the threat of potential stressors, though, some extra steps are needed.
Here are the simple updates that I would suggest making ahead of your next trip. Aside from enhancing the adventure, many of them will support your ongoing experiences behind the wheel.
#1. Invest in street-legal mud or all-terrain tires
When comparing off-road to standard street driving, the obvious difference is the impact that the ground has on your ride. While your 4×4 already has the power to push through more difficult terrains, it counts for very little if the wheels get stuck. Street-legal mud tires are essential. Intercom Super Swamper tires, for example, have very aggressive tread patterns to get you though all kinds of obstacles.
The tires I currently run, Nitto Recon Grappler, for example, will ensure that your vehicle is ready for any terrain. They are legal for the road as well as off-road adventures. So, even if your trip involves hours on the highway followed by time spent driving through mud or other testing terrains, you’ll be OK.
Looking for ones with a high load rating is ideal when you have packed lots of items.
If you want the best of both world between M/T and A/T, the Nitto Ridge Grappler is a proven hybrid tire. It will make your drive far smoother on the road while also saving you from the stress of getting stuck in the mud.
#2. Install a roof rack
If you want your off-road adventure to be comfortable, you’ll need to pack the right goods for camping and trekking. However, even the sizable trunk space of a 4×4 might not suffice. So, unless you want your passengers to be cramped, it’s vital that you find additional storage.
A Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform with Backbone system is the ideal choice. Its lightweight, durable, and versatile design works with over 100 accessories. So, you can use it to store virtually any item you could ever need for your trip in a secure and convenient way. From luggage and tents to bikes, you will be covered.
In truth, a roof rack is pretty handy to have throughout the year. Whether taking days out with the kids or giving yourself extra flexibility for their sports clubs doesn’t matter. This simple addition is sure to improve your daily life.
#3. Upgraded suspension
As already stated, the vehicle’s general performance should already be under control without any upgrades. But if there is just one part that needs updating for the sake of performance and comfort, the suspension stands out as the clear choice.
Upgrading the suspension can be achieved by replacing specific parts or by overhauling the whole kit. Either way, it will give the vehicle extra lift and provide a smoother ride over bumpy off-road terrains. Moreover, it has a huge influence on the overall fit of your mud tires. So, it is one of the most valuable updates of all.
It is an especially useful addition when tackling steep hills. So, whether you expect to encounter them on your road trip or live in a hilly location, the suspension deserves attention. You will feel the benefits from the very next ride.
#4. Side steps
If you plan to raise the height of your vehicle through new tires and suspensions, you might need side steps too. They will help you climb in and out of the vehicle with greater convenience. This could prevent injuries like twisted ankles.
It is also possible to find durable side steps designed specifically for off-roading vehicles. The durable nature means that they can be used for the long haul and do not have to be removed in between trips. I would personally always favor upgrades that improve your daily activities rather than road trips alone. After all, you might only take one or two per year.
In addition to new side steps, you can introduce a host of accessories to improve your ride and driving experiences. Infotainment systems and parking sensors are popular. If you plan to drive at night, a light bar will improve visibility for greater enjoyment.
#5. Put some safety items in place
While all of the above steps should make off-road trips run smoothly, you still can’t prevent all potential problems. For example, you may still encounter a road accident or find that a problem emerges with the vehicle. Preparing yourself for these situations is vital.
Firstly, you should build a suitable first aid kit for the road trip. In addition to standard items like band-aids, bandages, and creams, you should pack water. A backup cell phone can be another useful addition. Similarly, a car jack and jumper cables should be included to get you out of tough situations.
Finally, supporting yourself with a roadside recovery package that extends to the region(s) that you’re visiting will help. Aside from allowing you to avoid panic in difficult situations, it delivers the peace of mind that you deserve. Happy driving!