As you start to make your summer adventure plans, it can be tempting to jump straight out onto the trails. Whether this is your first off-road season, or you’ve been doing it for years, it’s important to remember that safety should always come first! 

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Keep reading for our list of Do’s and Don’ts to make sure you have a fun and safe off-road adventure this summer!

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Do: Plan Ahead

While there’s a tendency to assume that any “real adventure” should have a certain level of spontaneity and unpredictability, the truth is that off-roading is not an activity that should be taken lightly. It’s important to have a solid plan in place before setting out on your adventure. This not only ensures your safety but also allows you to fully enjoy the experience without any unnecessary stress or worry.

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Familiarize yourself with the local regulations, permits, and any specific rules for off-roading. Understand the terrain, weather conditions, and potential hazards you might encounter. Plan your route, inform someone about your itinerary, and use apps and gadgets designed for those journeys. 

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Don't: Go Alone

The last thing you want is to get stuck on a rock in the middle of nowhere with no phone service and no way to get back to the main road. Always make sure to bring a buddy (or travel in a pack!) when you’re taking the road less traveled. Not only is it way more fun, but they’ll be there to help you out of a bind if and when you need it. 

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Don’t have any Jeep buddies? The good news is that both Jeep and Broncos have incredibly rich communities, and chances are there’s a local group that you can join for all your off-roading fun!

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Do: Use Suitable Off-Road Vehicles and Equipment

Let’s face it, you wouldn’t go off-roading in a Mini (or maybe you would, and frankly, we’d love to see it). Having the right equipment is a game changer when it comes to maximizing fun out on the trails. 

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Making sure you’ve got the right vehicle (e.g. A Jeep Wrangler, or Ford Bronco) and any essentials like a spare tire, recovery gear (such as a tow strap and winch), a first-aid kit, and emergency supplies will help make sure you don’t have to turn back at the first obstacle. 

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You’ll also want to make sure that you’ve prepped your vehicle for the environment. Driving your new Jeep or Bronco right off the lot and into the mountains may not be the best idea. Do some research to find out which mods will help you have the most fun out on the trails. Not only that, you’ll want to add some protective gear to your off-road warrior before you head out so that you’re not facing a massive repair bill when you get home. From underbody protection, to a protective film for the windshield there are tons of options to keep you out on the road even after a weekend of off-road fun.

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Don’t: Push Beyond Your Limits

Regardless of how extreme you take it, off-roading can be addicting. It’s what makes certain headaches associated with driving a Wrangler or Bronco worth it for many of us! 

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But as much as that adventure is what we’re looking for, it’s always essential to recognize and respect your limits. It’s one thing to take the road less traveled, it’s another to take a serious risk that could end up in you or your fellow Jeepers getting hurt. If it’s your first time, go with a more experienced crew, but make sure that they’re aware that you may need to take it easy the first time and work up to some of the more difficult trails!

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Pushing beyond your capabilities can lead to accidents and vehicle damage that are avoidable. Always know your vehicle's limits and understand when it’s time to get help or find an alternate route.

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Do: Be Respectful of the Environment

Last but certainly not least, it’s important to keep in mind that preserving the natural environment is crucial for the sustainability of any off-roading. Respecting the environment allows you to enjoy routes, landscapes, and all the wonders you find when you’re out exploring, and destroying everything in sight just ruins it for everyone else. 

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Fortunately, there are often protected areas that offer a controlled environment that balances fun and adventure with preservation. 

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A few tips to make sure you’re being responsibility when you’re out there:

1. Stick to designated trails to minimize damage to vegetation and wildlife habitats. This will help preserve the area for future generations to enjoy
2. Remember to never disturb or harass wildlife, and always avoid littering
3. Be sure to steer clear of sensitive areas like wetlands, fragile ecosystems, and protected wildlife reserves.
4. And when you're packing up, make sure to leave no trace behind. That way, you can ensure that others can enjoy the same off-road experiences in pristine surroundings.

Off-roading can be a hell of a lot of fun, but it’s important to be safe about it. If you follow these tips, you'll have a blast without putting yourself or the environment in danger. Always stay on the designated trails, bring plenty of supplies, and never go alone. With these simple dos and don'ts in mind, you'll be able to enjoy all the beauty of the great outdoors while keeping it healthy for future generations.

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Happy wheeling!