Ten Things to Pack in the 4x4 for Trail Day

You might be surprised at how many unprepared four-wheelers I have met on the trail or in the mud. I guess some folks simply think that because their rig has 4x4 capabilities, nothing bad can happen. Well, I am here to tell you that not only can it, but it will. Some things that are a minor setback for the prepared folks can be a major catastrophe for the people who just point and shoot without a care in the world.

1. Flashlight. No matter how early in the day you hit the trail, it's impossible to predict when you'll be out later than you thought. A flashlight should be considered a must for any trail vehicle. High quality lights should always be the choice. Steer clear of the $2.99 bargain specials.

2. Tools. Yes, rigs break on the trail, and it is wonderful when the correct tools are present to fix them. A top-of-the-line Craftsman or Snap-On set is not necessary. Harbor Freight is your friend, here.

3. First aid. Never ever leave for the trail without at least a basic kit. Even putting bandages and alcohol with some pain relievers in a box is better than nothing.

4. Fluids. Always carry some water, engine oil, brake fluid, ATF and gear oil with you on the trail. Even if your rig never needs it, someone else's might.

5. Tire plug kit. These are priceless on the back roads, and cost very little to purchase. They are some of the cheapest insurance an off-road enthusiast could hope for.

6. Compressor. Of course the more expensive models are very nice, but the cheapies usually work well too, at least for a while. Get one that hooks into the 12 volt system of the vehicle and you can not only repair flats, but air up after the trail run.

7. Tow strap. Once again, even if your rig never needs one, it is very likely someone else will. 20-40,000 pound straps won't break the wallet and are a part of wheeling.

8. Fixed-blade knife. Most off-road types carry pocket knives already, but a good fixed-blade style knife can really save the day in a pinch. They can be found very cheaply and they fit nicely in the glove box.

9. Blankets and water. A simple blanket has many uses on the trail. It can be laid down if you need to get under the rig, it can keep you warm if it gets cold, and it can protect things in the back from banging around. Always carry more water than you think you'll need, because stuff happens on the trail, and if you get stuck out there it's important to keep hydrated.

10. Quality jack and spare. If your rig is lifted, the factory bottleneck jack is probably useless. Hi-Lift style jacks are the way to go for the trail. Also, make sure the spare you carry a) holds air, and b) actually works for the vehicle. For instance, if you have a mud truck with 44-inch monster tires, it doesn't make much sense to have a 31-inch spare.

Be safe out there, and be responsible. With all the recent trail closures, officials are looking for reasons to attack the sport of off-road driving. Do your part to keep wheeling safe and available for all of us!