No matter what your destination, when four-wheel driving, it is essential to be well prepared and organised. 

Whatever roads you intend to travel during the holidays –  general off-road, bush, beach or remote areas which can only be accessed by a well set up 4x4 off-road vehicle – planning ahead and correct preparation of your 4WD is vital.

As technology rapidly progresses, so do the parts and gadgets for 4WDs, and these accessories can make a huge difference to your off-road adventure.

So, before loading up with accessories, make sure your vehicle is right. Have it serviced and inspected well before your trip, allowing time for repairs if needed.

And when it comes to suspension, the one-size-fits all approach simply doesn’t work. Most vehicles come with suspension that is designed and engineered for a smooth, comfortable on-road experience, but when we start to pack it with gear heading off-road or towing the van, reliability and performance can start to suffer. 

It is wise to speak with a professional who can tailor a package to suit your exact needs. Bullbars, steps and rails, snorkels, winches, recovery gear, appropriate lights/light bar are  recommended for your off-road adventure, and cargo systems will fix your load in one position, helping to keep the centre of gravity constant.

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The correct tyre choice is also very important, as is a wheel-alignment. A vehicle with badly aligned wheels can lead to other problems including the possibility of ABS Brake System malfunction, steering system issues, overall suspension issues, as well as decreasing performance and reliability.

While river crossings sometimes cannot be avoided, they are always to be approached with extreme caution. Cars don’t belong in water, one gulp into your intake and you will be in trouble. One wrong turn and you are underwater or being swept away. So, always practice the utmost caution.

Lastly, wherever your adventure lies, always maintain safety on and off-road, and remember the golden rule of off-road driving – never travel alone.