Gather supplies
Before you go off-road, make sure you load up on supplies. Consider bringing essentials with you on every trip, including:
- Tyre recovery gear
- Recovery tracks
- Snatch straps
- Radio
- A first aid kit
- A shovel
- A starter kit
- Water
Packing the right supplies can help you avoid sticky situations – or get you out of one when the time comes.
Know your terrain
One of the best parts of owning a 4WD in Australia is the vastly different terrains you’ll encounter along your travels. Knowing whether the ground will be sandy, rocky, steep or muddy, and knowing when to engage different modes is a skill that all 4WD drivers will pick up over time.
Adjust your tyre pressure
Tyre pressure is one of the most important yet overlooked 4WD tips for newbies. 4×4 experts state that a common mistake beginner drivers make is not adjusting their tyre pressure for a better grip on the road. Reducing the air pressure to suit your terrain will not only improve your vehicle’s performance, but also aid tyre lifespan, help prevent damage, and make your ride much safer.
Stay slow
While you might be tempted to go fast over obstacles, it’s important to pace yourself. The old adage of ‘slow and steady wins the race,’ rings true no matter the terrain you’re driving. This is because it’s easy for things to go wrong when driving over unfamiliar obstacles. Keeping calm and thinking first can help you stay safe.