Essential 4WD Accessories For Happy Adventures

For many people, there's nothing like the thrill that a great 4WD adventure offers. Heading off-the-beaten track - either solo, as a couple or as a family - is the perfect antidote for the many pressures of modern living. However, there's much more to 4WD touring than just packing the car - there’s a range of essential 4WD accessories that every vehicle should be carrying. If you’re new to 4x4 living or you’re simply thinking of giving it a try, the following list of essentials will ensure you’re equipped for whatever challenges your off-roading experience may send your way.

Quick Links

• Essential 4WD Accessories FAQs
• Recovery Boards
• Fuel Containers & Jerry Cans
• Roof Racks
• GPS Devices
• UHF/Satellite Communication Devices
• A Personal Locator Beacon
• First Aid Kits

Essential 4WD Accessories FAQs

How do you pack a 4WD for camping?

To pack a 4WD for camping, start by organising gear into categories: sleeping, cooking, clothing and safety. Place heavy items like tents and water containers low and towards the vehicle's centre to maintain balance. Use storage containers for kitchen supplies and secure them to prevent shifting. Store sleeping bags and clothing in soft bags to fit around other items. Keep frequently used gear like first aid kits and snacks accessible. Attach larger items like roof racks or awnings securely. Ensure visibility by not overloading the rear area.

What is the most essential camping gear when 4WDing?

When 4WDing, the most essential camping gear includes a reliable tent, a sleeping bag suited for the climate, a portable stove or cooking equipment and sufficient water storage. Recovery gear like a winch, tow straps, and a shovel is crucial for off-road safety. Bring a first aid kit, navigation tools (GPS & maps) and a communication device. Additionally, pack a tool kit for vehicle repairs and a tyre repair kit.

How do you carry extra fuel on a 4WD?

To carry extra fuel on a 4WD using jerry cans, secure them in dedicated jerry can holders, either mounted on the rear or roof racks. Ensure the cans are made of durable, fuel-safe materials and are properly sealed to prevent leaks. Position them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Regularly check the straps and brackets to keep them securely fastened.

Can you sleep in a 4x4?

Yes, you can sleep in a 4x4, and roof top tents are a popular choice. These tents attach to the roof rack of your 4x4 and unfold into a comfortable sleeping area, elevated off the ground. They provide a quick setup, keep you safe from wildlife, and offer better ventilation. Roof top tents come with mattresses and sturdy, weather-resistant materials, making them ideal for off-road camping and overnight trips.

What does every 4x4 need?

Every 4x4 needs essential gear including a reliable recovery kit with a winch and tow straps, recovery boards, off-road tyres for traction, a high-lift jack, and a spare tyre. Safety equipment like a first aid kit and emergency tools are crucial. Additional necessities include a roof rack for extra storage, a navigation system and a communication device for remote areas.

Recovery Tracks

Recovery tracks (also known as recovery boards) are a must-have option for off-road touring and driving. Most recovery boards are designed to be stowed within your vehicle without taking up too much space. Recovery boards are some of the best 4WD accessories for any serious 4WD enthusiast due to their critical role in off-road recovery. Recovery boards provide traction on slippery or soft surfaces, such as mud, sand or snow, allowing your vehicle to regain grip and free itself from being stuck. They are designed to be durable and lightweight, enabling easy storage and quick deployment. In challenging terrains, having 4WD recovery boards enhances safety and reduces the need for external assistance, making them a vital part of any off-road recovery toolkit.

Fuel Containers & Jerry Cans

When it comes to fuel range, you certainly get further on a full tank in a 4x4 than you would with a normal passenger vehicle. But, even with that additional fuel capacity, having fuel canisters or jerry cans handy is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable off-roading and camping experience. Not only are fuel canisters great for storing vital supplies that can get you out of a jam between fuel stops but they also allow you to store fresh drinking water where bore or creek water requires treating to be safe for drinking or cooking. Fuel canisters are also a great way to store fuel for your portable generator when travelling for extended periods. Depending on the make and model of your 4x4, fitting jerry can holders to your vehicle could be an ideal way to free up extra boot and cargo space. A pouring aid or funnel also minimises the potential for spills so you use every drop of your backup fuel or water supply.

Roof Racks

Roof racks engineered for Australia's unique conditions are essential for carrying additional equipment on your camping expedition. As well as storing your camping gear, roof racks can be used to transport snowboards and skis, kayaks and fishing equipment. Like fuel containers, the flexibility provided by having roof racks fitted to your vehicle enables you to make the most of your cargo space and give you the opportunity to add a few extra creature comforts to your camping pack. When it comes to fuel consumption, weight always impacts your vehicle's efficiency, so the roof racks you fit to your car will too. Take some time to think about the kind of equipment you'll want to transport (bikes, fishing gear, tents, etc.). That way you can talk with an expert about the options available to be fitted on your 4WD that won't bite into your vehicle's fuel economy. Likewise, if you're buying a brand-new 4x4 through a dealer, discuss what after-market options the manufacturer has available.

GPS Devices

Part of the allure of off-roading for many enthusiasts is accessing some of the more remote and off-the-beaten-track camping experiences. When it comes to must-have 4WD accessories, having a reliable GPS navigation device means you can not only find your way into some truly spectacular locations but you can also find your way out. Along with navigation assistance, there's a range of GPS devices to choose from, which include features such as turn-by-turn directions to campsites, national parks and popular tourist destinations. There's also access to real-time details on weather conditions, road works/road closures, the kind of terrain you'll encounter in getting to your destination and other vital information for planning a safe trip.

UHF/Satellite Communication Devices

Given the remoteness of some of our most popular camping destinations, there will be many instances where your mobile phone will be without a signal. In the case of an emergency like a mechanical breakdown or an injury or illness to someone in your travelling party, not being able to access your mobile phone network will only add to stress and anxiety levels. Having a backup communication system, such as a UHF radio, is critical for contacting emergency services or sharing important information about road conditions with other travellers or truck drivers. Likewise, having a UHF communication device in your 4x4 makes it possible for you to lend a hand to someone who needs urgent help, which is why they are one of the best 4WD accessories, especially when heading into the vast and remote Australian outback.

A Personal Locator Beacon

A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a small, portable device designed to send out distress signals via satellite, providing your exact location to emergency services. For 4WD enthusiasts exploring the remote outback, PLBs are essential. In vast, isolated areas with no mobile network coverage, a PLB ensures you can summon help if stranded or in danger. Its robust design and reliable functionality make it a critical safety tool, offering peace of mind and potentially lifesaving assistance. With a PLB, adventurers can confidently tackle the outback's rugged terrain.

First Aid Kits

When you're off-roading, help (if you need it) is often a long way away. For those times when something goes wrong, a well-stocked, easily accessible and reliable first aid kit and insect protection is another item on the list of the best 4WD accessories you should store in your 4x4. While you can't plan for everything, having access to a first aid kit that can help you treat burns, fractures, insect or snake bites until you can access proper medical care should be the bare minimum. If you're new to off-roading, it may even be worthwhile enrolling in a first aid course or taking part in a refresher course for your existing qualification level.

Get The Best 4WD Accessories At Anaconda Today

Taking these few 4WD essential accessories into account could prove the difference between an adventure or a nightmare of a lifetime. Just keep in mind that four-wheel driving does not suffer fools - be prepared for anything and you're sure to be bitten by the 4WD bug! Make sure you also check out our Adventure Centre for more helpful tips and exciting destinations that you can visit with your friends, loved ones and family. If you liked our Essential 4WD Accessories For Happy Adventures article, then you might also like some of our other articles for awesome destinations and tips such as:

• 5 Essentials To Make Your Rooftop Tent More Comfortable
• Ultimate Awning Camp Set Up & Accessories
• Ultimate 4WD Storage Solutions & Ideas
• The Ultimate 4WD Checklist - All the Gear You Need to Pack!

Find your local Anaconda store and check out our extensive range of essential 4WD accessories for your next outdoor adventure