Generally speaking when I’m on an adventure photography Trip, I’m also looking for some solitude, far away from the madding crowd. Because of this, gear and rig preparation is really important and my upcoming overlanding week in the SW backcountry demanded extra care. TAP1, one of our 2014 JKU’s, had recently turned the corner on 100k, so I decided to change all the fluids, flush the engine, replace the spark plugs and generally give it a solid look over from bumper to bumper. Everything checked out just fine and I confidently left on the offroad adventure.
So, what do you do when you’re 170 miles into a 1400 mile trip and the check engine light comes on? Well, you curse profusely, spend the next hour worrying about it and then settle into a state of blind hope, ignorance and the zen like thought of, “It’ll be just fine as my wingman can always tow me out”.
Day 1:
The plan was to drive from San Diego, CA to Hurricane, UT and camp at Gooseberry Mesa. The scenery and terrain is dramatic and world renowned due to the Red Bull Rampage held there each year. It was early Sunday night when myself and my wingman for this trip, David Griffith from Explore California Pics , finally arrived. Most people had left after the weekend and we found a quiet and hidden away little dispersed camp site. Despite the engine light hiccup, this adventure photography trip was starting off well.
View from our campsite
Even though we had driven 7 hrs and 450 miles, we were eager to start some Astro Photography, as the Milky Way was back in the Northern Hemisphere after its long winter absence. Adventure Photography and especially Astro can be tiring and we awoke at 2.30am. Unfortunately to be greeted by significant cloud cover and no visible stars, so back to bed as the local coyote crew yipped and howled for our entertainment.
Golden Hour sunset over camp
Day 2 – 3:
Leaving Gooseberry Mesa, we headed out on our 3 hr and 140 mile journey to Big Water, where we were to leave the pavement and head into the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Our ultimate overland destination for the next 2 days was Alstom Point, which has a renowned view of Lake Powell, UT. The road to the point is an easy, bumpy and dusty trail, and only on the last 3 miles after the first viewpoint did we to need to engage 4Hi. This last section will however, cause pause for inexperienced drivers and should not be attempted without 4WD and high clearance. This is a very remote area to get stuck in, so think it through before attempting, especially if the weather is inclement.
Don’t camp next to the boulders!
Frankly, there’s a total WOW factor as you come upon Lake Powell. A sense of absolute beauty and remoteness and a perfect place for Adventure Photography. Dispersed camping is limited so, I was fairly impressed with the lack of human impact. I implore you all to “Pack In and Pack out” everything (Yes, that means Poop too!) and please Treadlightly.
Lake Powell Sunrise
We spent 2 days camped on the bluff, with the first day being alone, then being joined by 3 other rigs on the second day. The weather conditions varied from warm during the day to chilly at night and most of the time, the wind howled in classic desert fashion. As I said, this was a photography trip, so everyday we caught the sunset before hitting the sack early. Up at 2.30am to shoot the stars for an hour and again at 6.30am to capture the sunrise. As you can imagine in between our product testing, we took long naps throughout the day.
Nearly getting blown off the cliff.
We’ve had worse campsite views!
Galactic Core over Lake Powell.
Day 4:
With sadness it was time to leave and continue our vehicle supported Adventure journey back west to Northern Arizona. Our destination was White Pocket an acclaimed remote photographic location in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument region.
Sunrise over the White pocket
Again, once you leave the pavement, the off-road trail is easy until the last 9.5 miles. At this point you will need high clearance and 4WD to deal with the various deep sand areas you will encounter. This is a remote region, so take it seriously by being prepared (Recovery gear, extra food, gas and water) and we recommend you don’t travel alone.
Easy section of the trail to White Pocket
The weather was windy and as we sheltered in our camped vehicles, there were gusts that felt they could relocate the Roof Top Tent. Luckily by nightfall the wind had abated and by our 2:30 am alarm call, it was fairly quiet. Although we had scouted the area during the day, locating a perfect location in the dark to shoot the stars was, shall I say, “challenging”. This being said, the temps were perfect at a crisp 37F and the skies were clear in the early hours and at sunrise. Success!
The Galactic Core over the famous Brain Rock
Day 5 and 6:
Our time was coming to an end at White Pocket and it was time to hit the road again. We didn’t want to drive 12 hours straight home to San Diego, so our plan was to camp half way home on BLM land outside Valley of Fire State Park, 60 or so miles north of Vegas. Finally, the wind had ceased and for the first time in 6 days we put our cameras away, lit a fire and just relaxed, ready to sleep through the night!
Now back home, the memories of this amazing overland trip make me anxious to hit the road soon. Of course the check engine light has now disappeared.
TAP Editor’s Note: The following is part two of a three-part series on off-road recovery. The author, Bob Wohlers, teaches government, corporate, and recreational off-roading as a full time profession. He is one of only a handful of fulltime 4WD trainers in the USA. Some of the content in this multi-part series comes from Bob’s book The Total Approach to Getting Unstuck Off Road – 4WD Self-Recovery & Vehicle-Assisted Recovery. While other authors of 4WD books try to cover the topic of recovery in a single chapter, Bob has the only complete book on the topic – 352 pages of step-by-step information.
There’s No Embarrassment in Getting Stuck Off-Road
If You…
As I tell my all of my students, “Off-Road long enough and you will get stuck in the remote backcountry.” Prepare for that day, then prepare some more – with knowledge, skills, and off-road recovery equipment that you should carry along on your journeys.” What can happen? Here’s some possibilities:
You get bogged down in deep, greasy, gumbo-like mud; one wheel from each axle begins to spin.
Photo courtesy of Tour-De-World.com
Hisssssss. You hear another tire leaking; you just had your second flat.
Your off-road trailer bounces off a large rock during a sharp turn and lands on its side.
Your 4WD truck is high-centered on a ridge perpendicular to the trail; wheels on both axles are off the ground with no traction.
While driving an icy route, your vehicle slips sideways, down into a deep rut on the side of the trail and almost tips over. Your wheels have no traction.
Snow from the middle of the trail has piled up under your vehicle and your forward motion is completely halted.
You’ve accidentally tipped your vehicle over on its side on a very narrow trail.
Your vehicle catches on fire in the remote backcountry.
Photo courtesy of Coyote Works
You get the point. Someday, you will get stuck. It happens to everyone. Hopefully when it happens, no one gets hurt. There are thousands of ways off-roaders have their progress terminated or hampered when driving off road.
Let’s be honest. Getting stuck off road is often due to driver error. We all make errors, from the most experienced to the least. Errors can be due to a lack of off-road driving skills. You may misjudge the amount of momentum you need to climb a sandy dune or pick a poor line while traversing a rocky trail. Errors can be due to a lack of knowledge. It’s easier to get stuck when you don’t have a basic knowledge or understanding of your 4WD vehicle or the terrain you are traversing. Errors can also be due to a poor attitude, such as “showing off” in front of peers or performing vehicle maneuvers that defy common sense. I call this a “hold my beer, watch this”mentality. In my opinion, this type of attitude lacks maturity.
Regardless of the reason for getting stuck, it is a part of off-roading. So, if you aren’t thoughtless, cavalier, or alcohol-fueled, there is no real dishonor in getting stuck off road. You will make errors when off-roading or overlanding. Sometimes you get stuck even when you do everything right. There’s no embarrassment in getting stuck if you do all you can to mitigate potential difficulties. Here’s how to lessen backcountry difficulties:
Take Training from an Expert. Taking formal training from a professional off-road educator can reduce your chances of getting stuck in the remote backcountry. You don’t know what you don’t know. A knowledgeable off-road recovery trainer can teach you all the ways you can avoid getting stuck and what to do when you do.
Venture Within Your Personal Limitations and Abilities. Especially in remote and international settings, you need the proper knowledge, attitude, and skills to problem-solve and get unstuck. Avoid driving a remote trail or section of a trail solo that is beyond the capabilities of both you and your vehicle. If you are solo and reach an extremely challenging section of trail, think about your capabilities. If you decide to attempt the challenging section of trail, plan how you would recover should you get stuck, or the situation worsens.
Venture Within Your Vehicle’s Capabilities. Not all 4WD vehicles are created equal. Even 4WD vehicles designed from the factory to venture off road have limitations. You will probably get stuck if you push your vehicle beyond its capabilities.
Know Your Vehicle Intimately. Today’s off-road-specific 4WD vehicles are more complex than in the past. Many have traction-aiding features that should be mastered to get the most from a vehicle. Whether you purchase or build your 4WD, learn how your vehicle functions to avoid getting stuck. To keep from getting stuck, you also need to know intimately your vehicle’s, including lift clearance, articulation capability, and angles (approach, breakover, and departure).
Travel With Other Vehicles. Recovery efforts are almost always easier and more relaxed mentally when traveling with other vehicles into the remote backcountry. This is especially true when you also are traveling beyond your country of origin and within Third World countries. Having other vehicles along on a journey also widens your recovery options. Now you can use vehicle-assisted off-road recovery methods.
Have With You and Know How to Use Traction-Aiding Devices. Traction-aiding devices can be built into your vehicle (e.g., lockers, airing down tires, electronic traction control) or taken along with you when you are off-road (e.g., traction boards, shovel). Use as many traction-aiding devices as you have available to completely avoid getting stuck. When you do get stuck, use the same devices to methodically assist you in your recovery efforts.
Have the Correct Kit, Accessories, or Tools to Get Unstuck. It’s hard to carry every piece of recovery gear with you on every trip. If you’ve researched the trail prior to departure, you should have an idea as to the type of terrain you may need to traverse, helping you bring the right equipment. When with a group of vehicles, you can divide essential equipment between all the vehicles (e.g., not every vehicle may need a heavy Hi-Lift Jack).
Practice Recovery and Problem-Solving Skills at Home. Practice your skills at home prior to stressful situations in the remote backcountry. Recovery and problem-solving proficiencies are all perishable skills that should be practiced periodically when not under duress.
Research the Trail You Intend to Drive. Regarding knowledge of a particular trail, get as much accurate information from a qualified source as possible. Keep in mind that trails can change for the worse after one day of intense rainfall or earth movement. In reality, you can never have enough information about a trail. Have several maps that show the trail, as each may tell you something different about the surrounding area and the possible side routes. Before heading out to a trail, try to get current, up-to-date information from other off-roaders and local land-management officials. What’s the water level in streams you need to cross, are there wildfires in the area, what’s the trail’s difficulty rating, what is the typical temperature in the area at the time of use? Answering questions such as these and mining important information can help keep you from getting stuck on a really difficult trail, beyond your capabilities.
Solve Problems in a Methodical and Effective Manner. When stuck off road, follow an intelligent problem-solving checklist that results in a complete stuck assessment and an effective recovery plan. We will cover this topic in part three of this series in The Adventure Portal.
Try Low-Energy Methods of Recovery First. As often as possible, first try low-energy and/or saferrecovery techniques (e.g., shovel use, lowering tire pressures, use of traction boards) before trying other, more aggressive and higher energy methods (e.g., kinetic energy, winching) of getting unstuck.
Photo courtesy of MaxTrax
Refuse to Get Frustrated During Off-Road Recovery Events. When you do get stuck, calm yourself. Stop, Think, Observe, Plan, and then Act.
Avoid Hurried Recovery Efforts Due to Peer Pressure. Don’t let others on a trail hurry your recovery efforts to get unstuck.
Safeguard the Environment During Off-Road Recovery Operations. Sometimes getting unstuck in the remote backcountry means disturbing the environment just a bit to get out and going again. A good driver minimizes this disruption as much as possible. In the end, however, you’ll need to do what is necessary to get home alive.
Use Common Sense. Most of the above points have to do with common sense. Same for the use of drugs or alcohol that may be contrary to safe driving. Use your common sense each and every time you get stuck off road.
Be Prepared with Survival Knowledge, Skills, and Kit. Should you not be able to recover and get unstuck if you are remote and solo in the backcountry, you need to have the knowledge, skills, and kit to remain comfortable for several hours, a couple of days, or even a week or two should an adventure or work-related incident go bad. The companion Off-Road & Overland Adventure Info Book Live Long to Wander – Basic Survival for Vehicle-Supported Adventures is a must-read for all vehicle-supported adventurers.
Fun fact: Lori and Andy from TAP are the “injured” couple on the cover.
Live Long to Wander: Basic Survival for Vehicle-Supported Adventures– $25.95 BUY HERE
Raising Your 4WD Vehicle Off-Road & In-Field Tire Repair – $44.95 BUY HERE
The Total Approach of Getting Unstuck Off Road– $59.95BUY HERE
We created the Deadman™Earth Anchor™(patent pending) because we wanted to explore with confidence. We often found ourselves venturing solo, and with very little room to spare in our vehicle we needed recovery gear that was at once lightweight, small, and adaptable to different terrain. The Deadman was our solution to this need. With this single device, we can create a winch anchor point out of almost anything Mother Earth throws our way — without breaking the bank or taking up precious cargo space. For us, this opened new avenues to adventure and the freedom to explore. We believe in having many different recovery tools in our recovery kit; the addition of something as versatile as the Deadman gives us options — and since every recovery is unique, and conditions are never ideal, having options might just be what’s needed to get us home.
WHAT’S AN EARTH ANCHOR?
Ok, anything you bury in the ground as a winching anchor point is defined as a deadman anchor. So yes, we named our product The Deadman in honor of this, however its versatility both above and below ground has led us to refer to it as an Earth Anchor. You see, the Deadman is not simply a ground anchor: it can anchor to a tree, a rock, or the ground unlike anything else. Most anchors only work in one scenario, meaning you must carry multiple anchors to ensure preparedness. The Deadman’s unique design allows it to be extremely capable in all three scenarios, making it the most versatile off-road anchor ever.
THE DEADMAN EARTH ANCHOR:
Our primary design objective was to create something small and lightweight that could be easily buried – and be retrieved without more digging – for self-recovery in areas where there is nothing else to attach a winch to. What we came up with surprised us! It weighs less than 5lb, fits underneath a seat, and works to anchor to so much more than just the dirt. Because it’s a soft product, it can also be used around trees and rocks with increased safety relative to traditional anchors… and we keep finding new uses for the Deadman all the time. For instance, because it’s made from industrial grade, non-stretch polyester webbing (same as a tree strap), it can also be used as a 15′ winch extension. We’ve also found it useful as a ground mat, a fluid catch, a shade, and more – we’re looking forward to what ideas our customer community comes up with as well!
THE DEADMAN MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION:
The Deadman is constructed in USA from the finest USA-made, industrial grade materials. The tarp in the center is industrial 18oz vinyl with a rip-stop polyester skrim that’s both tough and malleable, allowing it to conform to misshaped objects like rocks without ripping. The webbing is 2″ Class VII industrial sling webbing, manufactured by Murdock Webbing (est. 1936) in Rhode Island, which is the same stuff used in industrial rigging and hoisting applications. Each line has a breaking strength of 19,600lb in a straight pull configuration and 39,200lb in a basket configuration. Because the Deadman uses two of these, when both lines are in use its breaking strength doubles, giving the Deadman a minimum breaking strength (MBS) of nearly 80,000lb in a basket configuration (still over 66,000lb after assembly). Additionally, because more than one strap is in use, the Deadman offers something no other anchor can: redundancy.
Everywhere you look these days, you see articles about Vehicle Supported Adventure, “Looks pretty cool” you say to yourself, but where do I start? Alternatively, maybe you simply want to experience a different states adventure opportunity without wasting days driving 1000’s of miles to simply get there? Titus Adventure Company (TAC) answers these questions for you and a couple weeks ago we sat down with them and asked them about their rapidly growing business.
What is TAC and how and why did you start it?
Titus Adventure Company (TAC) is an overland adventure vehicle rental outfitter based in Denver Colorado and we see ourselves at the “Uber of Overlanding.” Our mission is to help provide access to the outdoors while being good stewards for the environment and community. I started TAC mainly out of a personal need: how to live the outdoor Colorado lifestyle while reducing my family’s carbon footprint. As a young family of 4 (with a dog) we need a big SUV for weekend adventures in the mountains, but we don’t need it to run to the grocery store. Why not rent the times we need an adventure rig and have a much more fuel efficient car for the other 90% of our driving? We have since purchased an EV for our daily driver and offer 20% off to all other EV owners. The other major motivation for starting the company was that I believe life is better outdoors and as a Colorado native I have spent a lifetime getting outside, but not everyone is so lucky. How can we help get people outside? We do that by removing barriers. Don’t have the right vehicle? We bring ours to you. Don’t have time to pack/ unpack and then clean? We provide the gear and clean it for you. Don’t know where to go? We help plan your experience. Don’t have $60k to put into an overland rig? Rent only when you want to go out. To solve these problems I quit my mechanical engineering day job and jumped all-in on this business with no idea really how to start a business, how to market it, how to get insurance, or how to make financial projections. What I did know was that this was something I was incredibly passionate about and I felt confident the timing was right for this type of business.
Titus Adventure Company (TAC) Rigs and their builds
The Titus Adventure Company fleet is Toyota 4x4s that are perfect for the Colorado market. We have a 2019 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium, a 2019 Tacoma TRD Off-Road Premium, and 2019 Sequoia TRD Sport. These were selected to offer a range of vehicle types to suit different needs but all under the same family. We also wanted to start with a variety and test out assumptions about which vehicles would be most popular. One of the most important factors in the vehicle selection process was reliability. We can’t have rigs breaking down on guests in the backcountry. Another factor was we felt it was important to have the vehicles the locals drive. This makes our rentals appealing to the folks who just moved to Colorado and want to get into the lifestyle and also critical to our mission of changing the type of cars locals drive. If we are asking people to give up their 4Runner as their daily driver, they darn sure want to be able to rent one on the weekends. Lastly, we wanted vehicles that are very capable but also very easy to drive and don’t feel overwhelming. It is one thing to trick out a vehicle you drive everyday and know well, it is another to have a stranger drive it.As such, we have left the vehicle fairly stock but have done the following mods
Titus Adventure Company offers a ton of gear in addition to the vehicles to help outfit your adventure. Included with the vehicle rental, guests get a standard camping package which includes things like stove, fuel, chairs/tables, cook kit, Yeti cooler, water jug, and camp lighting. We also offer a deluxe camping package that has the items above plus things like Yeti coolers, Maven binoculars, portable toilet seat, supplies for S’mores, and firewood. We have gear for watersports (inflatable SUPs and packrafts), bike racks, ski racks, a PakMule hitch carrier, rod vault, portable shower, kid sleeping bags, and Goal Zero power banks. The list goes on!
TAC Tacoma on a ski mission
Are your audience local or from all over the US and International?
We are seeing a mix of local and out of state. In the winter most of our guests are from out of state coming to ski and want a guaranteed vehicle with snow tires and 4WD. The summer season is more of a mix. One of our goals is to be a resource for locals who want to explore the mountains on the weekends in a rigged vehicle and use a smaller efficient city driver the rest of the time. We are marketing heavily to urban dwellers and suburban families who are in Colorado because they want to explore the outdoors, but for them having a lifted vehicle with RTT and tons of outdoor gear just isn’t practical.
Chillin around the fire
Does TAC curate areas, trails, POI’s for the renter?
Yes, Titus Adventure Company hears from a lot of guests that they are excited to try an overlanding trip but don’t know where to go. It is awesome to be able to camp for free in the national forests but can be overwhelming too. We are developing some recommended routes in various parts of the state and then also offer more personalized trips. We also ask about their off-road driving experience, other activities they want to do and recommend routes accordingly.
Tacoma in the backcountry
Define the process of renting with you?
Bookings can be made online or by giving us a call. The website shows the vehicle availability and also allows the guest to add on any extra gear for their trip. Once they book we reach out with confirmation email and pre-trip survey to help us learn about their needs/wants. If the guests are looking for a more pre-planned trip we will put together a Google Earth presentation that shows them potential campsites and then create a trip route guide. A few days before the trip we will reach back out to confirm the pickup details and answer any last minute questions. After the trip we do a quick vehicle walk around, guests get their personal items out of the vehicle and they are all done!
A room with a view
What have been the challenges (apart from Covid of course)?
Getting commercial insurance for a small, new business that lets renters go off paved roads has not been easy to say the least. It took over a year to find a policy we were comfortable with. The other main challenge has been brand awareness. While overlanding is a rapidly growing trend, it is far from mainstream and even less known is that you can rent one of these vehicles. Most people know you can rent a Jeep for a day and most people know you can rent an RV and we are trying to bring awareness to the big gap in the middle. It is far from common knowledge that you can rent an adventure-ready mountain vehicle loaded with gear.
Any funny rental stories?
A guest came back from the Sand Dunes (Medano Creek) missing the front license plate and the bumper valance. He really had no idea how it came off or when and it seemed hard to believe something would rip it off driving forward and not damage the car anywhere else. Was he backing up and caught something? Later I learned that during water crossing at just the right depth and vehicle speed, the water can swirl up at the front bumper and that is what peeled the licence plate off. I also learned that replacing a specialty plate is not cheap…While cleaning a vehicle after being returned, we found some very nice Italian cheese in the car, vacuumed-sealed and uneaten. We got a hold of the guest and it turned out they had bought it in Europe on a trip just before their rental with us and were saving it to bring to their mother-in-law. The guest lived in Vermont and we happened to have family in town from Vermont who were more than happy to fly the cheese home with them and reunite it with the guest. We also have a guy planning to propose to his girlfriend on a trip in a few weeks!
Driving off road presents a host of challenges and fears for any driver. Four wheeling can be especially intimidating for new drivers. Those initial concerns are understandable. It takes off-road experience to build skill set and confidence.
If you’ve considered going off road but are reluctant to do so, relax. The following information may convince you to take up the hobby. While you are reading this remember: in town, you get into a pile-up as the result of other driver’s errors and actions. Off-road, in almost every instance, the driver makes the decision and judgment that lead to his own predicament.
After years of talking with new 4-wheel drive owners, here is my perception of the Top 10 Fears of newer drivers, and what to do about them.
1. Damage to a new vehicle:
This fear is mostly with regard to cosmetic damage; minor pin-striping and scraped bumpers. On occasion an air dam gets torn off or a license plate is bent out of shape. If you intend to explore more challenging terrain, I recommend you add rock sliders on the sides of the vehicle and skid plates to protect the undercarriage in case you bottom out. The first little dents will probably hurt you more than the vehicle. But on the bright side, you can now justify an aftermarket bumper.
2. Rolling over:
This is normally a rare issue. What makes good YouTube fodder is the extreme stuff with above average risk. When it does occur, the driver is often in an extreme situation or driving recklessly. Take your time going through rough terrain and around obstacles. Avoid high risk situations whenever possible. This may not be a comfort to you, but if you do make a mistake that causes your vehicle to roll, most times, the vehicle will only tip over onto a side (what we call a flop). A flop tends to occur while driving slowly, so damage to the vehicle and the driver is limited.
3. Stuck forever:
This rarely happens. Sure you are going to get stuck sometimes. Your buddies will help you out of a jam. Most stuck situations are what we call shallowly stuck – lightly hung up on a rock or mud just up to the side walls. A quick pull by another vehicle will usually remedy this situation. If you go by yourself, a winch will get you out of most situations. Of course you should avoid dangerous situations; areas where you think, “Yeah, I might be able to do that.” Bottom line? It’s always preferable to go out with at least one other vehicle.
4. Breakdowns:
The most common issues are resolved with proper training and tools. Remember, you’re likely to be with other drivers, who can lend experience and a hand. Read up on and poke around your vehicle to prepare you to be able to deal effectively with breakdowns. In my opinion, tires are the number one cause of problems. Focus on learning the skills on how to fix tires (they are not hard) and acquire the necessary tools. Bottom line: a breakdown need not end your four wheeling trip.
5. Not knowing where to go and not knowing other drivers:
The Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) produces maps that show open trails in the western states. Since 2011, they have provided “Off-Highway Vehicle Route Supplement” maps by Field Office sub regions. All open trails (with trail numbers) are identified. These maps do not have contour lines or other details and should be used with other maps like the BLM Surface Management Status maps. All national forests are required to publish a “Motor Vehicle Use Map” (MVUM). The maps are little more than line drawings of the trails with trail numbers. They show the major paved road to help orient you. In California, the California Trail Users Coalition publishes maps with the MVUM over laid on more fully featured maps for $3.00. Obtain several maps so you know where to find legal trails.Another good resource are trail guides. You can find a list of publishers on my web site www.4x4training.com/w/trails.html. A critical point here is that even if you feel well equipped with your trail loaded on a GPS, always bring a paper map! Electronics can fail.
Map meeting outside Soldier Summit.
In terms of finding other likeminded off roaders, look for events that are open to the public. Stop by and introduce yourself. You are likely to meet lots of other folks willing to hit the trails with you.
6.Breaking a bead:
Also called losing a bead, this is common. This concern is warranted but easily mitigated. Four wheelers air down nearly every time they go off road. If you turn too sharp, too fast in soft stuff or against a rock, the deflated tire is likely to lose its bead. The issue sounds worse than it is, though. As you’ll learn in this article, Tire Problems Shouldn’t Deflate Your Day, the problem is easily corrected with an air compressor and jack.
7. Embarrassing yourself in front of others:
Understand that everyone has to start sometime. Heck, I can recall some of my boneheaded newbie mistakes. The hope is that your fellow drivers are patient and understanding. To build your confidence, take some introductory classes. Everyone in these classes are in the same position as you, and you’ll learn together. (I offer a number of beginners’ classes.) Bear in mind that making mistakes is a part of your training. Don’t get worked up if, for example, you pick the wrong line. You’ll quickly recover, and you’ll be a smarter four wheeler as a result.
8. Lack of skill & knowledge:
There is no need to jump into driving on high risk, difficult trails. One trail book I have for Southern California lists over 150 trails (representing about 1500 miles). Only 19 of them rate above a difficulty Level of 4 (out of 10), although you do need 4-wheel drive and good clearance. Most of the trails take you to scenic overlooks, old ghost towns, old mines, and great camp sites. There are so many things to see and places to go on moderate to easy trails. An off-road training clinic will quickly eliminate any doubts about your ability to drive this level of trails safely. There are so many trails, and such a wide variety of terrain, that you’ll easily find a path that is enjoyable and surmountable.
9. Going off camber:
This is the official term for driving when tipped at an angle. As a newbie, being tilted over can be an unnerving experience. Even veteran drivers are uncomfortable driving off camber. Off camber isn’t a real issue until you get up to around a 30-degree pitch. In most cases though, you’re not likely to tip over, unless you’re traveling fast. Go slow and control the bounce. In my Getting Started Off-Road Driving & Safety Clinic I put students through a 30-degree pitch exercise. They learn what it feels like and how to respond. That way they are less likely to freeze up while off road. You can also buy a couple of tools that will help you determine your angle. One is an angle finder carpenter’s use, available in any hardware store. Another one, you can find at 4WD stores can be glued to the dash, it shows pitch and yaw.
10. Lack of immediate emergency services:.
Some 4WD areas as so remote, you’re outside the 2-hour window that normally defines urgent care response. Worse, you may be outside of cell range, as well. Here are a few things you can do to help keep you safe when dealing with an emergency in a remote location:
-Get basic first aid training. Learn how to stabilize an injured person. Take a basic survival course, too. You may need to camp out one or more nights while waiting for help. -Pack alternate forms of communication. These can include ham radio (requires a license), a satellite phone and a personal locator beacon or SPOT device. -Always ride with at least one other vehicle. I can’t stress that enough. Especially while still inexperienced, don’t consider driving alone on anything but the easiest trails.
I hope you have a better understanding of how to address four wheeling issues. The trails await you. Get the training you need, pack your vehicle, and then get out and enjoy the ride.
Designed and built in Alberta, Canada, the Arkto Campers G12 combines functionality, quality, and durability for a convenient overland camping experience. Built on a galvanized steel chassis with Timbren’s axle-less HD suspension, the trailer’s composite body is topped with a pop-up roof, ensuring a low profile for travel and storage, but extends to give an interior head height of 6’8”. The design offers excellent performance and longevity, with the trailer weighing just 3,600 lbs, allowing the G12 can be towed by some mid-sized SUV’s.
The Arkto Campers G12’s outdoor kitchen is one of the most functional on the market. Unique to the G12 is its massive outdoor pantry (12 cu ft), which sits above the large slide-out kitchen module. It features a folding countertop extension, a 12,400-BTU dual-burner gas stove, a stainless-steel sink with hot and cold water, a cutlery drawer, a spice drawer, and a propane quick connect for a secondary appliance. This U-shaped kitchen area also includes a fold-down prep table and a slide-out 75L dual-zone fridge/freezer, giving you all the amenities to prep your favorite camping meal.
Designed for comfort and practicality, the trailer’s interior is perfect for eating meals or sleeping. It sleeps up to four people with a residential-size queen bed, a large bench, and a convertible bed between the seat and bench. An optional folding bunk above the bench increases capacity to five. The Arkto Campers G12 includes durable, sleek, powder-coated aluminum cabinetry amounting to 25 cubic feet of storage space for clothing and essentials. Additional features like LED lighting, a 10-speed roof fan, three windows, and a portable toilet enhance convenience and comfort. This thoughtful design ensures all necessities are within easy reach, making the Arkto Campers G12 an ideal camping companion.
Standard equipment includes a 270-degree awning, an outdoor shower with an enclosure, a Truma Combi furnace/hot water heater, a 37-gallon freshwater tank, a full-size spare tire and carrier, and a bike rack receiver on the trailer tongue. The electrical system is managed by a REDARC Rogue and Manager30 combination, handling up to 960Ah of lithium batteries. Optional upgrades include a 2,000-watt inverter, up to 1,000W of rooftop solar, air-conditioning, an electric toilet, and an insulated pop-up canvas.
One of the standout features of the G12 is its substantial storage capacity. With 3 exterior storage cabinets totaling 80 cubic feet of volume, the Arkto Campers G12 nearly doubles the storage space of its nearest competitor, allowing space for extensive amounts of gear without encroaching on tow vehicle space.
Arkto Campers’ commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their personalized service and attention to detail. The Arkto Campers G12 embodies the luxury of freedom and the spirit of overlanding adventure, ensuring every journey is well-equipped and enjoyable.
Arkto Camper G12 $52,000 – To Learn More CLICK HERE
This is a sponsored article. TAP does not receive any commission from sales generated.
Whether it’s an overlanding adventure across the Trans-America Trail or off-roaders hitting MERUS Adventure Park in Texas, Windrock Park in Tennessee, or Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch, reliable communication should always be top of mind.
Built to withstand the unpredictable conditions of the wild, the GXT3000 delivers long-range connectivity, durable construction, and advanced features designed to keep outdoor adventurers in touch off grid- when cell phone service is spotty or unreliable.
The GXT3000 brings powerful GMRS two-way radio communication, maximizing range on the trails. Overlanders and off-roaders can count on the GXT3000 whether they’re coordinating a convoy through remote backroads, spotting for a vehicle navigating an obstacle, assisting with a recovery, or simply communicating with base camp along an adventure.
With a battery life of up to 27 hours, the GXT3000 keeps users in touch over long periods of time, ensuring they never miss a message whether it’s for connection or safety. When battery does get low, these walkie talkies can power back up quickly with a rapid recharge of 4 hours with its USB-C charging capabilities, ensuring users are up and running for the next day on the trails.
Not to mention, there’s battery versatility with the option to power up the walkie talkies with its rechargeable battery packs or standard AA batteries, giving overlanders and off-roaders the flexibility to switch up power sources when charging options are scarce along remote adventures.
Off-roaders and overlanders frequently come across unexpected weather and difficult conditions like rain, river crossings, and mud. The GXT3000 walkie talkies are water resistant, making them a dependable choice for adventurers pushing the limits of their vehicles and gear.
In addition to its durability, the GXT3000 enhances safety with NOAA Weather Alerts, ensuring that users receive real-time updates on storms and hazardous conditions. For overlanders who spend days or even weeks in the backcountry, this feature is invaluable for route planning and safety.
Equipped with repeater capability, off-roaders and overlanders can drastically expand their GMRS two-way radio range, keeping them connected across further distances in the most remote areas. Overlanders can hook up to various repeaters as they travel across the country and off-roaders can access repeaters often available at various off-road parks.
The GXT3000 GMRS Walkie Talkie 2 Pack includes two radios, rechargeable battery packs, a desktop charger, DC adapter, AC adapter, 6-foot USB-C charging cable, boom mic headsets—perfect for hands-free operation while driving.
Whether tackling the roughest terrain, traversing remote wilderness, or embarking on multi-day expeditions, the GXT3000 keeps adventurers connected and prepared for whatever lies ahead. With its advanced capabilities and trusted performance, the GXT3000 walkie talkies are an indispensable tool for any serious adventurer or those weekend warriors hitting the trails for fun.
GXT3000VPR Bundle $149.99 – To Learn More CLICK HERE
This is a sponsored post. TAP does not receive any commission resulting from sales.
Midlandthe leader in two-way radio communication technology, is officially the title sponsorship of the first-ever Midwest Discovery Route, an exclusive off-road adventure leading participants to the highly anticipated MOORE Expo. The MOORE Expo, known as the Midwest’s #1 Adventure Travel Consumer Show, will take place on April 25 – 26, 2025 in Springfield, MO. The Midwest Discovery Route spans from April 21-26, 2025, ending at the expo.
This exciting new route, sponsored by Midland, will offer off-road enthusiasts the ultimate journey through scenic backroads on a thrilling 300-mile adventure. With four starting points—Kansas City, MO; St. Louis, MO; Tulsa, OK; and Little Rock, AR—participants will traverse rugged terrain, tackle water crossings, and sharpen their overlanding and navigation skills.
“We’ve been attending this event since it first began in 2020. We previously sponsored the SMORR2MOORE (Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch) at MOORE Expo. It’s the largest event of its kind in the Midwest, where Midland’s headquarters are, so we’re extremely proud to be the title sponsor of the first-ever Midwest Discovery Route. This is a great, hands-on way to utilize Midland products for off-roading events and continue to show others why we’re considered a leader in two-way communication,” said Andrew Kinsman, Director of Category Marketing at Midland.
Each vehicle will receive a Midland Radio Rally Navigation Book, along with a MOORE Expo swag bag, commemorative patch, and navigator support kit for a fully equipped journey. Participants are also encouraged to use Midland’s two-way radios to stay connected with fellow riders, ensuring clear communication as they navigate remote and challenging landscapes on their way to the MOORE Expo.
Founder & CEO of MOORE Expo, Chris Holloway, shared, “We couldn’t ask for a better partner than Midland to help us make Midwest Discovery Route a great success this year. Their expertise in off-road communication, combined with our passion for designing the ultimate adventure route, makes the partnership a perfect match.”
For more information on the MOORE Expo Midwest Discovery Route, CLICK HERE
California Overland Adventure And Power Sports Show: Meet the pros from top brands and get deals on the latest gear & vehicles!
California’s ultimate outdoor lifestyle and power sports event, the 4th annual Overland Adventure And Power Sports Show is returning to the Pomona Fairplex April 12 & 13 for a weekend of excitement, discounts, and know-how! With hundreds of exhibitors, the Fairplex will be jam-packed with top brands showcasing the latest vehicles and gear. Plus, attendees will get exclusive discounts and be entered to win thousands of dollars in prizes and giveaways! From overlanding and camping to 4x4s, ATVs, and more, this show will inspire outdoor enthusiasts to take on new adventures.
The California Overland Adventure And Power Sports Show is more than just a place to see and buy the latest products—it’s where you can talk to the pros and get expert advice. Event organizer Brian Vargas says, “Whether you’re looking for overlanding camper tips, the best upgrades for your adventure rig, or recommendations on gear, you’ll find the answers here. Bring your whole crew—our family-friendly event has something for everyone!”
Key Info:
Early Bird Special: Arrive early! The first thousand attendees each day will receive a special gift bag.
Camping: The Fairplex RV Parkis conveniently located across the street from the event venue.
Parking: The Fairplex parking fee is $18 per car (credit card payments only).
CLICK HERE for your chance to WIN BIG in TAP’s ULTIMATE GIVEAWAY
The GIVEAWAY will open on-line 8am (PDT) April 7th and close Noon (PDT) April 15th. Entries can also in person at the Californian Overland Adventure Show – Pomona.
NO COST TO ENTER
CHECK BELOW TO SEE WHAT YOU CAN WIN!
Rules and Terms and Conditions:
Each Winner will be notified within 72 hours of the close of the contest.
This competition is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Instagram or Facebook.
This competition is being hosted exclusively by The Adventure Portal Media Inc
Contestants are able to sign up on-line through the TAP website, Instagram and Facebook posts or in person at the show.
Participants must be a resident of the United States and must be 18 years of age or older.
The prizes are as detailed below and are not transferable.
Each winner (10 winners and 10 prizes) will be randomly chosen. The judge’s decision is final.
Each Winner will be notified via a private message to the email provided.
Each Winner must respond to our email with their full name and shipping address to claim his or her prize. If we do not hear from the winner within 10 days after notification, another winner will be randomly chosen. Contributing brands will ship out the prize to the provided address as soon as possible. All shipping costs will be covered by the contributing brand.
Contributing brands employees and family members of employees are excluded from the competition and their submissions will not be considered.
The results drawn are final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
All contestant names and email addresses will be provided to each contributing brand.
Embarking on an overlanding adventure demands gear designed to withstand rigorous journeys and the ability to transform your vehicle into a comfortable haven, regardless of the season. The 23ZERO Walkabout 62® 2.0 fold-out, softshell, rooftop tent embodies these qualities.
It features a generous queen-size sleeping area , a 3” Rebound Foam® mattress, complete with a waterproof base, ensuring restful nights under the stars and eliminating the need for an anti-condensation mat. A quick removable fly reveals sky windows for stargazing on clear nights coupled with large windows and ultrafine insect mesh to provide optimal cross-flow ventilation – it’s a sanctuary for explorers seeking unparalleled outdoor experiences.
Midland’s GXT67 GMRS 5-Watt Walkie Talkie – GXT67 PRO is the handheld powerhouse, making it the ultimate walkie talkie.
Boasting 5 Watts of power, this is Midland’s strongest walkie talkie to keep users connected in and out of the vehicle as they hit the trails across the country.
Its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating prove this two-way radio will survive the toughest conditions and environments, perfect for rain and open-air vehicles.
With up to 4 days of battery life, users can head off grid with the most reliable communication whether they’re hitting the trails in their vehicles, taking a hike, communicating with base camp, or reaching someone in case of an emergency.
Featuring a user-friendly menu navigation, the GXT67 PRO is easy to use, making powerful GMRS two-way radio communication accessible for all.
Midland’s GXT67 PRO offers repeater capability, meaning outdoor adventurers can extend their GMRS two-way radio range to even further distances, ensuring connection when they need it most.
This two-way radio simplifies communication along adventure, allowing users to easily navigate spotting and recoveries wherever adventure takes them.
The AIR+FOAM PRO Camping Mattress is Luno’s comfiest, most versatile sleep system ever. Designed to fit seamlessly in your tent or trunk, it’s easy to switch up where you sleep. The rectangular shape fits any tent, while our revolutionary, patented Head Support Bridge Attachments turn your backseat into a bed in seconds while providing additional storage and a convenient way to store the mattress. The mattress construction features a perforated open-cell foam sandwiched between protective layers. It’s durable, supportive, cushy, and incredibly comfortable.
The Mattress Fitted Sheet is cozy, breathable, and offers temperature-regulated insulation. It’s designed to fit snugly on the AIR+FOAM Pro Camping Mattress and protects your mattress from abrasion and accidental stains. The material has the ability to absorb, store, and release heat, helping to maintain an optimal temperature and comfortable experience in various conditions. The sheet also features corner cutouts keep the sheet snugly in place all night long, so you can move around while your sheet stays put.
The FireCan was created to solve the ever-increasing problem of how to safely have a campfire during the wildfire season, and not have to lug around those common, large and awkward fire pit rings. It’s small size and big heat make it perfect for smaller adventure vehicles and works great for those quick, trailside gatherings and weekend camp getaways. It packs away easily in your rig and can easily be fueled with Ignik’s gas growlers.
Gazelle Tents™ rugged design and ease of set up makes the perfect ground tent for your next overland or car camping excursion. You can upgrade your base camp with the T4 Hub Tent Overland Edition. This tent has all the same great features of our most popular T4 Hub Tent, with additional features designed specifically for overlanding. The T4 Overland Edition includes a durable 300 denier polyester footprint for floor protection. Use the upgraded All-Terrain stakes to set up camp in even the toughest soil conditions. The oversized water-resistant duffle bag makes packing up your tent simple. The T4 Hub Tent Overland Edition easily accommodates up to four people with plenty of room for additional gear. It stands 78” tall at its center and features a spacious 94” x 94” interior. It comes ready to use right from the bag, no assembly, or loose parts. You can be set up from bag to base camp in under 90 seconds. Constructed with a 210-denier polyester shell material is waterproof up to 2000MM HH rating and has a UV50+ rating. The floors are constructed from a 300 denier Oxford weave polyester that is waterproof and simple to remove for easy clean up. In addition, the rain fly can be used both on and off your tent weather permitting. Let the T4 Hub Tent Overland Edition take your base camp to the next level.
The First Aid Plus from Uncharted Supply Co. is a comprehensive, all-in-one emergency kit designed for adventurers and overland enthusiasts. It combines essential first aid supplies with survival tools, ensuring you’re prepared for unexpected situations while exploring remote areas. Whether you’re driving through rugged terrain or camping in isolated locations, having this kit in your overland vehicle is crucial for your safety and peace of mind.
Packed with over 100 medical supplies, First Aid Plus covers everything from minor cuts and scrapes to more serious injuries like sprains and fractures. The kit also offers survival tools like a flashlight, whistle, multi-tool, and even a mylar blanket—critical items in case you’re stranded or need to signal for help.
No, this isn’t our collaboration with a shoe company. But it is the next great evolution of the Zeus family, ready to solve one of the top 3 most common and frustrating vehicle emergencies.
Why AIR? Because the Zeus Air includes a 150 PSI air inflator, ready to fill everything from tires to paddle boards to footballs.
REDARC’s Tow-Pro Trail Kit is the ultimate plug-and-play brake controller solution, specially designed to enhance your off-road adventures. Engineered and tested for off-road adventures, the Tow-Pro Trail helps you tackle challenging conditions such as steep descents, mud and sand, as well as providing smooth, safe braking for everyday hauling.
Safety and quality are at the forefront of REDARC’s innovations. The controller offers two modes: Manual Off-road Mode, ideal for challenging terrains such as steep descents, mud, and sand, and Everyday Mode, which provides proportional braking for regular towing situations. The Tow-Pro Trail brake controller features advanced SwayStop Plus™ technology, providing instant trailer stabilization with a simple touch on the remote head during sway events. The remote also allows for easy adjustment of gain settings and mode switching, enhancing control and peace of mind.
The Tow-Pro Trail Kits are designed to simplify purchasing a brake controller for specific vehicles. Each kit includes a Tow-Pro Trail brake controller, remote control knob, vehicle-specific wiring harness, mounting bracket, and a switch insert. The remote head integrates seamlessly into the dashboard, ensuring a factory look while eliminating knee knocking and preventing airbag interference. These kits are currently compatible with select models from Jeep, Nissan, Ram, Ford, and Toyota
The Baja Designs XL Sport auxiliary light pair makes it easy to light up the terrain in front of your vehicle and is the perfect combination of affordability and performance. The XL Sport uses Baja Designs trademarked high-speed spot reflectors providing for a longer and wider beam pattern with four of our next generation LED technology that offers 3,162 raw lumens each. This makes the XL Sport the perfect auxiliary light for off-road vehicles such as trucks, vans, UTVs and motorcycles. This two-light kit comes with a wiring harness and all necessary mounting hardware to get you up and running quickly. Designed for users who want reliable off-road lighting solutions, all Baja Designs lights are backed by a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a limited lifetime warranty for the ultimate in purchase protection.
ELS™ Scores: Click to learn more about our Effective Lighting Score (ELS) XL Sport Driving Combo (Clear): ELS 80°/ 6.4/ 324’/ 2765 XL Sport Spot (Clear): ELS 60⁰/ 3.9/ 418’/ 2253
The SourceLT will save hours of wiring & installation time. It is a small, solid-state 6-circuit control system that provides a clean (one cable into the cab!) and safe way to power and control 12VDC accessories. Due to the small footprint of the SourceLT, the placement options are endless! No cutting, fishing wires into the cab or tapping into the vehicle‘s electrical system. It’s the perfect over-all solution for all your aftermarket electrical accessories with options unmatched by anyone.
• 6 circuits rated at 30 amps at 12.5 VDC per circuit • 12-position terminal block (easily attach accessories) • Controller cable (10 foot) for simple plug-n-play connectivity to the switch controller • Integrated low voltage cutoff (LVCO) battery protection w/ optional override • Self-healing fault protection circuits (from 1.5 to 30amps) • Current-sensing MOSFETs controlled by a microprocessor (no fuses & no relays) • 100amp in-line fuse • Nylon braided battery cables are hi-strand crosslinked copper wire with a silicone jacket • Operates on 12VDC • Built-in Bluetooth capabilities for remote control • Protection against: overheating, over-current, shorts, reverse polarity and field collapse • On-demand wireless software updates/upgrades
The Rask shower tent is the new and improved shower and privacy enclosure from 23ZERO. The word ‘Rask’ has Scandinavian origins and means ‘rapid’ and the most impressive feature of this overlanding shower unit is the unique, quick deploy, zig-zag fold mechanism enhanced by gas struts so set-up and pack-down takes only seconds – it’s so smooth and effortless, it’s the ultimate solution and most convenient shower awning for outdoor adventures.
The Rask Shower Tent has eliminated the often awkward and frustrating, folded awning arm structure. Say goodbye to wrestling with arms, clips or locks. The Rask redefines ease and efficiency for portable ensuite solutions – it takes minimal effort with a single pull-to-deploy operation and simply fixes into place seamlessly. Pack-down is just as hassle-free transforming a chore into a convenient process.
This sleek and reliable ensuite is constructed from durable and lightweight, powder coated aluminum with a hexagon grid, waterproof, 300D polyester fabric. The material includes the 23ZERO revolutionary LST™ (light suppression technology) feature meaning it is no-silhouette and ensures total privacy in all lighting conditions.
The detachable privacy roof has a roll-back roof design and offers superior ventilation and optional full coverage. The walls of the enclosure walls provide 8” of adjustable hang height, ensuring a customized fit for vehicles and trailers of varying heights and the weighted hems and shock-corded anchor points keep the tent steady, even in windy conditions. A zippered rear wall allows direct access to your vehicle or trailer for added convenience.
An integrated LED light strip is included for nighttime visibility. It also has a built-in, drop-down, floor allowing for a clean shower experience and water to drain away. Two internal pockets and a hanging cord keep essentials like towels and toilet paper within reach.
The Rask Shower Tent weighs 18.8 lbs. and can be side or rear mounted. It comes with a complete mounting kit. Open dimensions are 36” square with a starting wall height of 78” and provides adjustable height up to a further 8”. Closed dimensions are 43” wide, 7.5” high and 5.5” deep.Upgrade your outdoor adventures with the 23ZERO Rask Shower Tent, a premium accessory designed for ease, comfort, and functionality – it’s a must-have for anyone who values practicality and convenience while camping.
Fast Setup: Ready In 3 Minutes
Ultra-Efficient: 0.8 Gal lasts 15 minutes
Multi-Use: Cleans dishes and gear
