11 Off-Road essentials – Overland Safety Kit
If you’re like me, you’re eager to jump in the Jeep, set off for the mountains, and leave all worries behind. Ideally, that would be possible, but in reality, preparation is key. This straightforward list of off-road safety gear will ensure you’re ready for any situation that may arise while you’re on the trails or venturing overland.
In addition to these off-road essentials, we recommend that you check out our off-road driving tips. The combination of situational awareness, safety and preparation will help you have an amazing time out on the trails no matter what mother nature throws at you.
Off-Road Safety Gear
Before venturing out on off-road trails, it’s crucial to have a safety kit for yourself and your vehicle. Safety is paramount—we want you, your friends, and your family to enjoy your time safely. These ten essential items for off-road safety could be the difference between a memorable adventure and an unfortunate situation on the trails.
Ensure you have these essential off-road driving safety items before leaving home:
GPS Tracker
I know and love using Gaia GPS Tracker on my iPhone and Android Tablet. It’s an affordable GPS tracking app that has downloadable maps and already contains many of the off-road maps and routes I’ve used – whether I’m visiting Hidden Falls Adventure off road park or driving across one of my favorite places in the world – The amazing trails of Southern Colorado – a GPS Tracker and Mapper is recommended.
Heavy Duty Flashlight
The unpredictability of road incidents and the inconvenience of night-time repairs make it essential to be prepared. Struggling to change a tire or fix your vehicle in the dark, using only your phone’s flashlight, can be frustrating. It’s wise to invest in a quality, heavy-duty flashlight for your vehicle.
I use flashlights all the time – from trying to inspect the under carriage of my Jeep or dig around in my Jeep Tent Trailer and look for supplies.
- Superior quality craftsmanship with weather-resistant seals and anodized inside and out for improved corrosion resistance. D batteries required (best...
- A premium drop resistant and water resistant flashlight renowned for its quality, durability and reliability
- Advanced lighting instrument with a diamond knurled design and a powerful projecting beam making it suitable for camping, climbing, fishing, hunting,...
- Designed for professionals and consumers alike, the Maglite LED flashlights build on the experience in craftsmanship, engineering, and advanced...
- BRIGHT - The S1000 effortlessly illuminates an entire room making it the perfect super bright flashlight for everyday use. This powerful flashlight...
- DURABLE - This tactical flashlight is virtually indestructible. Constructed from military-grade aluminum, it is water-resistant and strong enough to...
- COMPACT - This small flashlight easily fits in your pocket, backpack, or purse, ensuring convenient storage and quick access. Small flashlights,...
- INCLUDED - This high-lumen flashlight package includes (2) S1000 LED Tactical Flashlights, (2) AAA Battery Holders, (2) Battery Tubes, (2) Hand...
- SIZE - Measuring 6.1 x 1.57 x 1.57 inches, these compact pocket flashlights are perfect packing light during camping and hiking trips. They also work...
- [3 LIGHTING MODES] High/Low/Strobe. Switch between modes by fully pressing the ON/OFF switch. Press the ON/OFF switch halfway to change modes during...
- [ULTRA BRIGHT BEAM & EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE] 900 Lumen high-quality LED output, the beam can reach a distance of 1000 FT/300 M (on high-beam mode), 46...
- [VERSATILE ZOOMABLE FOCUS] Adjustable beam focus for close and long-range visibility. It functions as a floodlight for ample area illumination and an...
- [OUTDOOR & INDOOR USING] Ultra bright tactical torch ideal for car repair, nighttime reading, camping, hiking, fishing, and many other activities...
- [DURABLE ALUMINUM BODY] Heavy-duty aluminum alloy material body protects from falling and absorbing.
- 1.【High Power Hand held Spotlight Flashlight More Functions】: Ultra bright high lumens led spotlight flashlight searchlight Torch+side flood light...
- 2.【Very Bright Side Floodlight Camping Lantern with white light mode and RED/BLUE strobe light mode】:This heavy duty spot light flashlight also...
- 3.【Super bright LED high beam Spotlight Flashlight 】:Most powerful high lumens LED flashlight search light High Brightness /Low brightness mode,we...
- 4.【 Long lasting Flashlight 】This rechargeable spotlight flashlight searchlight has smart multiple protection (overcharge/ over discharge...
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Rain Gear
The weather is notoriously fickle in the Rocky Mountains, often shifting from clear skies in the morning to a severe storm by the afternoon. It’s crucial to pack reliable rain gear to stay dry—preferably a full rain suit, or at the very least, a quality rain jacket with a hood. I find the Marmot rain jacket to be ideal as it’s breathable, effective at keeping me dry, and both lightweight and comfortable.
Having proper raingear is essential for off-roading, especially if your vehicle lacks doors or a roof. It allows you to appreciate the trail’s beauty and focus on navigating rather than worrying about staying warm and dry.
Being drenched and cold due to lack of preparation on a mountain trail is an experience best avoided.
- Avoid Getting Soaked - Sturdy and durable with a patented dry-touch finish, this waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable and protected during...
- The Next Generation Of Waterproofing - Our PreCip collection of pants and jackets are made with PFC-free NanoPro recycled nylon fabric that keeps you...
- Comfort In Any Condition - An attached adjustable hood and DriClime-lined chin guard enable the wearer to feel less clammy and more comfortable over a...
- The PreCip Jacket features fully taped seams to prevent leaks and bonded storm flaps over the zippers to keep moisture out. Zippered pack pockets...
- Marmot crafts professional quality outdoor gear, born from working mountain guides and instructors. Inspired by the Alpinist spirit of adventure to...
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Glennaker Lake Lined Rain Jacket is crafted of a waterproof nylon shell durable enough to withstand anything from...
- HANDY FEATURES: This rain jacket features two zippered side pockets, elastic cuffs, an elastic hem, and a stow-away hood.
- COMFORT & WARMTH: Crafted of a waterproof 100% nylon shell, this rain jacket is lightweight while remaining protective. It's the perfect layering...
- SNUG FIT: Elastic details and a zippered closure allow for a snug, yet comfortable fit that allows for movement.
- OMNI-SHIELD - Go ahead, try and get dirty. Omni-Shield helps you stay clean and dry by resisting the absorption of liquids.
- Get your adventure started as soon as you take off in the Switchback III Jacket.
- Omni-shield advanced water repellant system repels liquids below 170 Fahrenheit from absorbing into the jacket.
- Stowaway hood with hook-and-loop closure.
- Front zip closure with back vent.
- Side-zip hand pockets.
- Lightweight waterproof material，easy to clean
- Drawstring with adjustable hem and Elastic cuffs help to keep clothes dry
- Two side zipper pocket and one 7-inch wide back pocket for storage, packable back pocket no need bag to pack.
- Three reflective logos provide high visibility in low light during rains
- After receiving the product, if you have any questions, please contact Baleaf through Amazon immediately. Baleaf is committed to providing a good...
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Fire Extinguisher
You will be putting your vehicle through extreme climates, extreme temperatures, and extreme conditions. An easily accessible fire extinguisher can save not only your life but also your vehicle.
Make sure that your fire extinguisher is easily accessible and isn’t expired. Going low and slow in 4wd can crank up the heat on off road engines and a fire extinguisher is a must have off road essential.
Fire extinguishers do have a life span so it’s important to replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- First Alert's AUTOMAR10 Marine Fire Extinguisher is UL rated 10 B:C; It features a durable metal head and commercial grade valve and trigger
- Designed to fight flammable liquid and electrical fires; Uses sodium bicarbonate extinguishing agent
- Metal pull pin with safety seal to help prevent accidental discharge and discourage tampering
- Secure extinguisher mount, bracket and strap are included for secure placement of extinguisher
- Easy instructions with a chemical resistant & water proof label with 4 step instructions won’t deteriorate
- Made with Neoprene for a flexible,form fitting,resilient design
- Industrial grade hook and loop attachment
- Attaches to the rollbars with three straps for a secure fit
- Designed to fit 2.5lb extinguisher
- Package included: 1PC Roll Bar Fire Extinguisher Holder
- Quick Access Should The Moment Arise: Not only is it annoying to have your extinguisher rolling under the seats, but if you do need to use it at some...
- Lighting Fast, No Tool Installation: This fire extinguisher mount lets you install your extinguisher onto a Wrangler roll cage in just 60 seconds with...
- Looks Cool & Is Very Easy To Install: You can put this mount wherever you want on your Jeep Wrangler roll bar or roll cage; It will hold a standard...
- Ready for Jeep Wrangler: Compatible with 1986-2022 padded or unpadded roll bars for TJ, JK, JKU, JL Rubicon, Sport, Gladiator, and more; Note: these...
- Brands Supports: pls connect Voodonala. If you aren’t satisfied with Voodonala fire extinguisher mount, simply reach out to us directly, and we will...
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Spare Tire
Always take a spare tire when heading to the trails, ensuring it matches the size of your vehicle’s tires. It should be in good condition, free from dry rot, and properly inflated. Include your spare tire in the rotation with your other tires during regular maintenance. Although not often considered a “safety item,” its importance cannot be overstated—it is a reliable necessity. When trail riding or rock crawling, a damaged tire may leave you stranded, but a spare tire will ensure you can make it back safely.
If you’re looking for options on tires, check out our in-depth article on choosing off-road tires for your Jeep.
On my Jeep, I always rotate my fifth wheel spare tire with every tire rotation. It’s the best way to make sure even wear and more importantly – reduce the chance of dry rot that often happens with people who have a tire they never rotate in and will fail them on first use.
Portable Utility Shovel
Sometimes you just need to dig something out, move some dirt or fill in some holes. Whether you’re out in the sane or up in the mountains – a simple utility shovel can save you time in everything from getting unstuck to using a tool to remove debris.
Often portable shovels are convertible for picks, trowels, and shovels making them immensely useful for getting unstuck. Here are some great off-road shovel and axe kits.
- AMERICAN OWNED, FAMILY OPERATED - Join the Rhino USA Family and Support a Father/Son Business With the Best USA-Based Customer Support.
- 3-IN-1 MULTIPURPOSE - Features a Versatile Design With a 180-Degree Shovel, 90-Degree Pickaxe, and 90-Degree Pick hoe, Allowing you to Tackle Various...
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE - Measures a Full 23" Long When Extended, but Folds Down to Just 9" x 6" for Easy Storage in the Included Heavy-Duty Carry Case;...
- CARBON STEEL CONSTRUCTION - Engineered From Carbon Steel with a Black Powder-Coated Finish for Enhanced Strength, Corrosion Resistance, and a Sleek,...
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- Axe & Shovel Mount / Only
- Compact tri-fold design for easy storage
- 2-way multi adjustments
- Fiber reinforced nylon handle
- Carbon steel blade has double serrated edge that is heat treated for high strength
- Storage bag included
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Maps & Guidebooks.
Don’t make the mistake of purely relying on electronic devices. Having printed maps and quality guidebooks are essential in being prepared. Cell phones die, Car GPS’s are often severely out of date, and sometimes you may just get stuck with no electricity and charged devices, and a guidebook or map will save the day.
Even though I recommend a digital Map/GPS Device, it’s important you always have a physical backup. No matter how much I try and plan ahead – perhaps the route I ended up taking took me beyond my downloaded maps or my phone got wet and died or my charging cable broke – I can’t rely 100% on an electronic device. Physical maps and guidebooks are necessary.
We love the in-depth trails guidebooks, check out our review of the Colorado Trails series books.
First Aid Kit, Bug repellent & Sunscreen.
Pretty self-explanatory, but make sure you bring one. There are lots of great ultra-portable kits that include everything from snake bite treatment to quality Band-Aids and common over the counter medicines. While out wheeling nothing beats having bandages, gauze and advice/aspirin as needed. If you’re out in the southwest or desert areas – you may want snake bite kits. Bug repellent and sunscreen will protect you from annoying sunburns and critters that light to bite and sting. If you’re driving out in the open, these essentials will be the difference between an enjoyable adventure or a miserable experience that can’t end soon enough.
- 140-piece Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Emergency First Aid Kit is ideal for home, in cars, outdoors, dorm rooms, and while camping, cooking...
- All-purpose, compact first aid kit includes essential first aid supplies like cleansing wipes, gauze pads, assorted bandages, rolled gauze, antibiotic...
- Includes a variety of Band-Aid Brand Adhesive Bandages in assorted sizes for minor wound care, as well as Band-Aid Brand First Aid Products gauze...
- Includes full size 0.5 oz Neosporin + Pain Relief topical cream to help prevent infection while relieving pain and full size 1.0 oz Extra Strength...
- Travel first aid kit also contains Tylenol Extra Strength acetaminophen pain reliever caplets and a Bengay Non-Medicated Instant Cold Pack to help...
- ENJOY THE OUTDOORS: Perfect mosquito repellent spray for body. Ideal for a day in the park, camping, hiking, or simply just lounging in the backyard...
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Our insect repellent spray contains natural plant-based ingredients - Citronella Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Peppermint Oil, and...
- DEET FREE MOSQUITO ERADICATOR — Our mosquito repellent for outdoor is completely DEET FREE
- PLEASANT SCENT & NON-GREASY: Our bug repellent spray for skin is non-greasy, feels light, and smells fresh on the skin
- PARTNER FOR TRAVEL: This bug repellent outdoor spray allows you to explore the world because of the strong mosquito protection
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Gloves
Gloves will save your sanity. They will save your day. You will love yourself for always having a pair of quality mechanics or outdoor gloves on you. Gloves are an essential part of your off road safety kit.
There is nothing worse than tearing your hands up trying to work on replacing a flat tire or burning your hands working on a hot engine or poking your hands trying to move around rocks. Invest in a good pair of quality gloves to keep in your vehicle at all times. I prefer the high dexterity style gloves vs. those classic heavy leather “dad gloves.”
- MADE FOR WORKING HANDS – Rugged .8mm synthetic leather gloves for hard-working individuals. Great as safety work gloves, mechanic gloves, home...
- TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES – The perfect blend of dexterity and durability with touch-screen glove capabilities, these gloves can be used for smart phones,...
- BREATHABLE – Reduce blisters from repetitive tasks with evaporative cooling TrekDry material that forms to the back of your hand and stays...
- ADDED DURABILITY – The durable thumb and index finger are reinforced to outlast basic gloves in high wear areas, making this utility glove the...
- SECURE FIT – Prevent gloves from slipping off while keeping out dirt and debris with these secure fit gloves, equipped with an adjustable...
- HIGHEST CUT PROOF. Protect your hands from cuts and punctures while handling sharp metals, knife, blade, glass, plastic sheet, paper, construction...
- COMFORTABLE ALL DAY LONG. Cru553 work gloves fit snug without constricting your fingers. Their 13-gauge cool yarn is made of HPPE and Spandex to give...
- HIGH PERFORMANCE IN ALL CONDITIONS. Need to grab slippery tools or knives? Our foam nitrile rubber coating is anti slip even on greasy or wet...
- FIVE SIZES FOR THE PERFECT FIT. These protective safety anti cut gloves come in size xsmall, small, medium, large, and extra-large for men, women,...
- IDEAL FOR WORKING OUTDOOR AND IN THE KITCHEN. Carpenters, construction, warehouse and all type of workers will find Cru553 useful for woodworking,...
- VERSATILE APPLICATIONS - Perfect for power tools, construction, motorcycling, tactical and DIY heavy-duty works that require higher protection
- IMPACT & VIBRATION REDUCTION - 3D-structured PVC patches on the back for great impact protection; High dexterity EVA padding offering stereoscopic...
- 180° COVERED FINGERTIPS W/3D CUTTING - 45° angle cut at the finger junctions and pre-curved fingers ensure a tailored fit with amazing flexibility,...
- TOUCHSCREEN COMPATIBLE & SWEAT WIPING - Touchscreen capable thumb & index fingertips for smartphone control; Soft terry cloth with strong sweat...
- Machine washable for easy cleaning & maintenance
- MADE FOR WORKING HANDS – Rugged .8mm synthetic leather gloves for hard-working individuals. Great as tactical gloves, safety work gloves, mechanic...
- TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES – The perfect blend of dexterity and durability, these can be used for smart phones, tablets, and any capacitive touch-screen...
- BREATHABLE – Reduce blisters from repetitive tasks with evaporative cooling TrekDry material that forms to the back of your hand and stays...
- ADDED DURABILITY – Thumb and index finger are reinforced to last longer than basic gloves in high wear areas. Tactical carrier loops allow for...
- SECURE FIT – Prevent gloves from slipping off and keep out dirt and debris with these secure fit gloves thanks to the TPR Thermoplastic Rubber wrist...
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Water & Snacks
Be prepared. Bring a gallon of water for everyone on the trip. Whether you’re wheeling in the high desert or high summits, you will go through more water than you expect. You don’t want to be dehydrated and not thinking well while maneuvering and driving. Stay hydrated and make sure to have plenty of healthy snacks on hand.
We love hydro flask style water bottles and can’t recommend them enough.
Car Jack, Jack Plate/Piece of wood.
Your vehicle should already include a jack hopefully, or you may have invested in one that mounts on your hood and roof but don’t forget a plate or decent piece of wood to use to stabilize your jack as necessary. There is nothing worse than being stuck and needing to jack up your vehicle but having nothing stable to rely on.
If you’re looking for a car jack to help get over rocks & obstacles much larger than a factory jack for swapping wheels, these “hi jacks” are the most common ones. For off roading, your standard vehicle jack may not provide enough lift to swap tires or repair a flat.
- The Hi-Lift 48 inch cast and steel jack is constructed with a mix of cast components and four high-strength stamped steel components
- Top winch connector clamp and powder coated finish with zinc-plated hardware standard on all jacks
- Two piece handle and socket is durable and reliable; Operation type : Mechanical
- Safe use information stickers, including rated load details and operating instructions, affixed to handle
- Large base and adjustable connector clamp
- Constructed of solid cast steel and finished in durable powder coat
- All hardware is zinc plated
- 54 inches in height with a 4660lbs rated weight capacity
- Color: Gray/Black
- Opens with your vehicles ignition key eliminating extra keys on your ring. Fits all models of 1997 and newer Jeep Wranglers (TJ & JK)
- Easy to install, bolts into existing holes. No drilling required! Your Hi-Lift Jack is held securely in place with 2 knobs. Solid steel construction
- Auto-Return spring locks automatically when key is removed
- Stainless steel lock shutter to keep out dirt and moisture, plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping
- Limited Lifetime Warranty, NOTE: J-Mount is not compatible with Smittybilt Trail Jacks
- The Hi-Lift Jack X-TREME jack is our top of the line, all-cast jack that includes many special features
- Unique gold zinc-coated winch/clamp/spreader attachment ensures the greatest rust resistance from extreme use for all the hardware
- Two piece handle and socket is durable and reliable, One position for all winching, clamping, and spreading positions
- Safe use information stickers, including rated load details and operating instructions, affixed to handle
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We hope you have a safe off-roading experience. Being prepared isn’t just the motto of the boy scouts, its what keeps off roading safe and fun for everyone. Started building out your off road safety kit today!
Have something we should add to this list? Drop us a comment below and let us know what other off road safety gear we should add!
Sure thing, Its always good to prepare in advance. As you don’t know when you actually going to need something.
I love the work