I’ve been going off-roading in Jeeps for as long as I can remember. My father and grandfather both loved taking their Jeeps out into the wilderness, and I followed in their footsteps as soon as I could.
Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about what you need to take with you if you want to have a safe and enjoyable time off-roading. We always had a list of essentials that we would take with us on every trip. There’s nothing worse than being stranded in the middle of nowhere without the supplies you need to get back on the road.
Today, I want to share with you the same list of must-haves I’ve been using for years because honestly most of these items have helped me get out of some pretty tough situations and possibly even could have saved my life. I hope you take it to heart because I take my preparation very seriously!
Going out is not worth risking everything. But if you are prepared go have fun!
Table of Contents
11 Must-Haves for Going Off-Roading in Your Jeep
Before you head out on your next off-roading adventure, make sure you have these 11 items packed and ready to go.
1. Off-road Recovery Kit
If you are going to go out off-roading in your Jeep, you had been have some solid straps in case you need a winch extension. Don’t get caught up prepared. This kit is an awesome value and it made from strong materials so it doesn’t break while you are far out on your trails. I’ve tried a few of these straps and there are some other straps that just fall apart. This one won’t as long as you pay attention to the capacity for each strap. Plus this set comes with a solid 11 ton snatch block to help protect your winch and two D-Shackles to easily connect to your Jeep. I’m a big fan of these set if you can’t tell.
2. Tire Repair Kit
This tire kit from ARB has saved my butt so many times. If you don’t have this, you have got to get this now. Don’t risk not having it!
No matter how careful you are, there’s a good chance you’ll end up getting a flat tire at some point, especially when driving on rough terrain. Having everything you need to fix a flat can save you from having to wait for roadside assistance or someone to drive by with the right tools for the job.
At a minimum, your tire repair kit should include a jack, a lug wrench, and a spare tire. If you have the space, you may also want to consider adding a portable air compressor, patch kits, and a can of tire sealant.
3. Set of Tools
This set of tools is a very economical set that I use almost every time I go out on the trails in some way or another. Usually it is to help someone else but I would prefer to be prepared.
In my opinion it is a must-have for any off-roading trip and this set is a versatile set of tools. It doesn’t have to be a massive toolbox, but you should have a few basic tools like a screwdriver, a wrench, and a hammer.
You should also take the time to learn how to use all of the tools in your set so that you’re prepared for any situation.
If you don’t already know how to use them, there are plenty of instructional videos and articles online that can teach you what you need to know.
4. Compact Shovel
If you’ve been off roading for a while, you know as well as I do that you will get stuck at some point. It happens all the time. This shovel is well priced and solid. I don’t always have to use it but I appreciate having it just in case.
A shovel is another versatile tool that can come in handy for a variety of different tasks while off-roading. If you or someone in your group gets stuck, you can use your shovel to dig them out.
You can also use it to clear debris from the trail. And if you’re going camping, a shovel can be used to put out fires, dig a latrine, or even clear a spot for your tent.
There are many shovels that are small in size and can easily fit in the trunk of your Jeep, so there’s no excuse not to bring one along.
5. Emergency Flashlight
Although most phones have a built-in flashlight these days, it’s still a good idea to bring a separate flashlight and keep it in your Jeep.
Not only do flashlights on phones drain their battery quickly, but they’re also not as bright as a dedicated flashlight.
Having a bright flashlight handy can help you signal for help, find your way in the dark, or scare away any wildlife that may be lurking around your campsite.
6. Jumper Cables
There are many reasons the battery on your Jeep might die while you’re off-roading. Maybe you left the lights on by mistake, or maybe your battery is just getting old. Whatever the reason, having jumper cables with you can help you get back on the road quickly.
If you’re not comfortable using jumper cables, another option is to bring a portable battery charger. This can be used to jump-start your Jeep’s battery or to charge your phone and other electronic devices.
7. DIY First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen at any time, and being prepared can mean the difference between life and death.
Your first aid kit doesn’t need to be anything fancy, but it should include basics like bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
If you or someone in your group has a history of medical conditions, you should include a list of their medications as well as contact information for their doctor.
8. Fire Extinguisher
It’s highly unlikely that your Jeep will catch on fire on the trail, but a fire extinguisher can still come in handy. If you’re going camping, a fire extinguisher can be used to put out a campfire that gets out of control.
And if your Jeep does happen to catch on fire, a fire extinguisher can help you put it out quickly and prevent any further damage.
It doesn’t have to be a big fire extinguisher, a small, handheld fire extinguisher is all you need. Just make sure it’s easily accessible so that you can grab it quickly in an emergency.
9. Warm Blanket
A blanket can serve many purposes while off-roading. If you get cold or wet, a blanket can help you stay warm. If you or someone in your group gets injured, a blanket can be used as a makeshift stretcher.
And if you’re going camping, a blanket can be used as an extra layer of insulation for your sleeping bag. A wool blanket is a good choice because it’s warm even when wet, but any blanket is better than no blanket at all.
10. Snacks
Off-roading can be a physically demanding activity, so it’s important to make sure you’re staying fueled up with snacks and drinks. Pack some high-energy snacks like energy bars or trail mix to keep your energy levels up.
Try to avoid snacks that will melt in the heat or spoil before you have a chance to eat them. And if you’re going camping, bring along some foods that are less likely to attract wildlife to your campsite.
11. Extra Water
No matter where you’re going or how long you’ll be gone, always bring extra water. You never know when you might get stranded or have to hike out of a difficult situation. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Although drinking-water is the most important use for water when you’re off-roading, it’s not the only one. You may also need extra water for washing your hands, cleaning up spills, or even as an emergency radiator coolant in case your Jeep overheats.
And if you’re going off-roading in an area with muddy or swampy trails, you’ll definitely need the extra water to keep your windshield clean.
Final Thoughts
Going off-roading in your Jeep can be a fun and exciting way to explore the great outdoors. But before you head out, there are a few things you should make sure you have with you. Here are 10 must-haves for going off-roading in your Jeep:
- Off-road Recovery Kit
- Tire repair kit
- Set of tools
- Shovel
- Flashlight
- Jumper cables
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Blanket
- Snacks
- Extra water
Having these items with you will help you be prepared for anything the trail throws your way. So before you head out on your next off-roading adventure, make sure you have everything you need.
What other items do you think are essential for going off-roading in your Jeep? Let us know in the comments below.
Happy trails!