When You Go 4-Wheeling, You Need More Than Just a Great Set of Truck Wheels

Thinking about doing some off-roading? Well, there is a whole lot more to it than just jumping your truck over rocks and through mountain streams. When you go 4-wheeling, you need more than just a great set of truck wheels, you need to have all the right gear.

The right type of vehicle is certainly a plus when you go off-roading. After all, you can't expect to have much of an adventure in a Hyundai Elantra. Of course, even if you have the right type of vehicle, you can wind up in a situation you would rather not be in if you don’t have the essential gear.

Whether you are taking the kids to a great fishing hole, a drive on the beach or a mountain trail, make your adventure safe by packing the following items.

Off-Road Tires

While having a great set of Moto Metal or Fuel wheels is a plus, you need the right kind of tires as well. Check out the Nitto Trail Grappler.

Fire Extinguisher

It is always a good idea to install a B-rated and C-rated fire extinguisher in your vehicle. After all, there are a number of accelerants getting sloshed around as you are climbing those rocky hills.

If you already have fire extinguishers, check them to ensure they are fully charged and ready to go.

First Aid Kit

You never plan on having a mishap that might leave you with a nasty cut or burn, but it is always a possibility.

An off-road trip wouldn't be the same unless you were miles from civilization. In fact, the farther you are from the city, the better the trip. But if a medical emergency does occur, you will want to be as prepared as possible as it is unlikely you are near a Walgreens.

You will want to ensure your kit is comprehensive and has everything you need. A small kit is not recommended, what you need is a trauma kit for serious injuries.

You will also want to make sure you have a blanket, tarp, flashlight, spare clothes and a knife. These are all items that come in very handy when an injury happens.

Hi-Lift Jack

Don't rely on that stock tire jack that came with your truck. You will be experiencing some very deep ruts and other obstacles that could put your truck rather deep in a hole. And if this happens, you want a jack that gives you maximum height.

Portable Air Compressor

When you play rough on rocks and other hard surfaces, there is always the risk of a flat tire. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a convenience store with an air compressor machine on the top of the mountain you are climbing. So bring your own air compressor.

Tools

When you go 4-wheeling, you will need to bring more than just a hammer and screwdriver. In fact, your best bet is to buy a large tool bag and fill it as full as you can.

The more extreme the trails you drive, the more likely something on your truck is going to break. But if you have a full set of tools including vice grips, drivers and a full set of wrenches, the chances of you getting your truck up and running again is quite good.