Few drivers venture beyond the pavement whenever the craving for adventure strikes. However, they don’t have to get off the tarmac to get to landmarks, campsites, and panoramas. The way to go is off-road for real adventure, the thrill it comes with, and the bragging rights for the most memorable driving experience. Contrary to what many believe, an off-road trip doesn’t have to be out of reach. Here’s how you can afford one.
1. Select a Manageable Terrain
There are many off-road destinations to choose from. You can opt for a form of off-roading known as “two-tracking.” It involves driving on pathways and unpaved roads designed for most off-road vehicles. You can also attempt dune bashing, a sub-genre of off-roading that involves driving up and down dunes while maintaining complete vehicle control. Rock crawling is the most difficult, as you’ll need to crawl up and down rough boulders, rocks, and other massive, immovable obstacles. An even more challenging off-road drive is mudding, which is driving through lots of clay and mud.
Since getting stuck in the mud is common, this terrain is considered the most challenging. The trick is to choose a destination you’re sure you can handle. This is great advice since off-roading can also be dangerous. Stay within your experience level and move to more challenging terrain as your confidence and expertise increase.
2. Memorize The Route
Once you choose the destination to go off-road to, map and memorize it. It’s important to review the experiences of other off-road drivers and visualize yourself on those trails by watching several videos or reading their reviews. A thorough knowledge of the terrain and the obstacles you’ll have to surmount will enhance your navigation skills and confidence. Apply similar logic for other outdoor adventures, such as hiking trips.
3. Prepare Your Off-road Vehicle
The first thing you must do is choose the vehicle you’ll be using. According to Statista, Crossover cars accounted for 45% of vehicle sales in June 2021, making them the most popular on American roads. Since you understand the terrain you’ll soon be handling, it’s time to prep your vehicle for the trip. Raise your car’s undercarriage and add extra traction by purchasing new off-road wheels and tires. While at it, add brush bars, fender flares, and other protective features should the terrain include many but minor obstructions such as tree branches and other necessary nuisances.
4. Drive Strategically To Save Gas
To maximize gas mileage on highways, drive at 60 miles per hour, avoid constantly changing speeds, and try not to keep the car idling unnecessarily. To avoid wasting time, map out the most optimal gas stops ahead of the trip. You can always fuel later, but don’t forget to bring a can for carrying gas should it run out while you’re deep in the trails.
Off-road modifications negatively impact your vehicle’s gas mileage. A full tank won’t give you the same mileage as on normal, paved terrain. One little extra matter, though: don’t drink and drive just because you’re unlikely to come across the cops in the rough terrain, and there’s good reason for keeping off alcohol. There are 15,000 fatal injuries resulting from car crashes caused by drivers who consume alcohol and other illicit drugs, according to the National Library of Medicine.
5. Partner with a Friend
It’s common practice to adopt the buddy system when engaging in a potentially dangerous activity such as off-road driving. Besides, having a friend provides an extra layer of safety and protection. For instance, if you get injured, lost, or stranded, you’ll need help.
It’s more fun to go off-road with a friend than solo. The shared memories of the tribulations and trials encountered during the excursion will live with you. Besides, if your personal finance isn’t in good shape, you can cost-share the trip’s expenses, making it even more affordable.
Most off-road terrains, especially in forested areas, are constantly degraded by erosion. A healthy forest may experience gradual erosion at an average of 300 pounds yearly for every acre, which means the terrain may change yearly. Being prepared for every eventuality is, therefore, essential. Happy driving!
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