
Someone asked me a great question last week. They said, “Hey Phil, what are the first 5 items you pack in your 4WD before you go on a trip?”. Now, the funny guy inside me said, beer, fridge, chair, dog, and food. FYI, the wife was 6th, she just missed out.
Seriously though, when it comes to preparing for a trip there are five essentials I always pack. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a bush trip, the beach, the national park, or down the road to the shops. These five essential items are a must-have in my opinion. They are always in my 4WD! Here are the first 5 items I pack in my 4WD
Apart from the above five items, I always tour with my trusty Waeco CFX50 fridge, 2 chairs, my Darche 2m awning, a small table, and a full recovery kit including MaxTrax. If I’m going to a remote destination, I take a satellite phone or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon). In terms of PLB’s there are a few good brands out there like Zoleo, Spot and ACR.
The common theme for me is personal safety. When you are exploring, you inherently place your vehicle and occupants in an environment with heightened risk. It is important to pack and prepare for any disaster. As a rule, when it comes to four-wheel driving, you should expect the worst and hope for the best. First 5 items I pack in my 4WD is always the same, the additional packing depends on other factors.
As a rule, when it comes to four-wheel driving, you should expect the worst and hope for the best.
Many off road 4WD incidents stem from poor driver behaviour, whether that be a lack of judgement when towing or overtaking, tiredness, drug or alcohol abuse, or distractions. It is hard to stamp these things out unless every driver takes positive action themselves
Other incidents involve drivers being ill prepared. Many drivers do not consider the road conditions. You must allow for the grade of the road, corrugations, oncoming traffic, weather events, divots, and much more. At some point in time you and your vehicle will become stranded on the side of the road.
The first thing you should do is stay with your vehicle. If you are on a gazetted road, there is a higher chance of being found than if you wander off into the bush.
Drink water! Your body will need it to stay alive. Seek shade and shelter. If you have a way of communicating, use it.
Many drivers towing an RV undertake a towing course which we believe is invaluable. We also think that drivers should consider a basic mechanical course to identify and fix any roadside issues when they travel across Australia.
These are only my suggestions. Your trip will have to take into account your destination, the number of passengers, the roads you intend to travel on, and of course the telecommunication availability. Do your own research and stay safe from the team at Camper Trailers and Hybrids.
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