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Offroading is a favorite activity for many motor enthusiasts, combining the thrill of the great outdoors with the excitement of powerful vehicles. But it’s not without its risks. Taking a wrong turn, getting lost, or running out of gas in the middle of nowhere is a real worry.
That’s why having a route optimization app on your phone is a must for these adventures. It’s also smart to carry some essential offroading tools to keep you on the right path and ensure your safety.
Imagine being eighty miles from the nearest town with no phone service and your truck stuck. What do you do? This is where a satellite phone comes in handy. Regular phone coverage doesn’t reach most offroad areas, but satellite phones do.
Companies like Globalstar, Iridium, and Inmarsat offer reliable satellite phone plans, and Bluecosmo provides a good range of options in the U.S. Just remember, your satellite phone should include a GPS feature since your regular iPhone won’t work off the grid. While satellite service can be pricey, it’s worth it in emergencies.
A commercial-quality truck winch is also crucial. No matter how rugged your truck is, you’ll likely get stuck at some point. A reliable winch, rated by its pulling capacity, can help you get out of tough spots. Learning how to use a winch might take practice, but once you do, you may rarely need that satellite phone. Self-rescue is always the best option.
For winching yourself out, you’ll need a sturdy hitch. While pintle hooks are common, consider an air-compensated version that uses the vehicle’s air system to reduce wear and prevent uncoupling.
Deflating tires for better grip is often necessary in offroading, so you’ll need a way to reinflate them. Portable air compressors are the solution. Although top models like the ARB Portable Air Compressor can exceed $800, cheaper options are available but slower. Regardless of the price, a portable air compressor is essential for any serious offroad trip.
If your battery dies in town, you can call for help easily. But if it happens offroad, you’re in trouble. Carrying a jump starter, like the affordable Jump-N-Carry’s JNC660, ensures you can quickly get back on track.
Offroading is a rapidly growing hobby, so it’s crucial to understand the potential dangers. Each month, many offroaders face getting lost or worse. By investing in high-quality offroading tools, you can ensure your safety and make it back home without any issues.
