As we start to get into the “spring” of camping and exploring, we know that those who are off-roading, camping, or adventuring by vehicle may be looking for that piece of gear to complete the set up. Or you could be 12 miles into a trail and punctured your tire and forgot the tire repair kit at home. That’s why the team here at Off-Road Place™ has put together this short list of gear to consider as you get ready for your next adventure. You’ll also notice that we linked in some of our favorite products for each section.
- Vehicle Essentials
Your vehicle is your lifeline when you’re off the beaten path, so making sure you have the necessities to keep it rolling down the trail.
- Tire Kit: Full-size spare, tire repair kit, and / or an air compressor.
- Recovery Gear: Tow straps, soft and / or hard shackles, traction boards, shovel, and a winch (if you're traveling solo).
- Vehicle Lift Jack: Essential for lifting a vehicle in tough terrain.
- Tools & Spare Parts: Basic toolkit, jumper cables, fluids, and extra fuses.
- Navigation Tools: GPS, compass, and / or physical maps in case of no signal.
- Communication: Two-way radios, Garmin InReach or SPOT communicator, or emergency beacon. Don't forget about some of the newer cell phones that come with the ability to send messages over satellite.
2. Camping Gear
A comfortable campsite makes a huge difference in your experience. While we enjoy the Roof Top views from our personal FSR tents, we also have taken out some ground tents with us, especially on those trips we want to wheel hard on.
- Ground Tent or Rooftop Tent: Durable and weather-resistant; be sure to check the season rating on your tent.
- Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, or sheets and a comforter for the roof top
- Cooking Setup: Stove, fuel, utensils, and lightweight cookware.
- Food & Water: Pre-planned meals, snacks, and water for the trip or until the next fill up point.
- Lighting: Camp lighting is awesome with so many options out there. Did you know about the speaker / light set up that FSR has? Truly sets the mood for camp.
3. Safety & First Aid
Be prepared for those little emergencies; and if in doubt, call for help!
- First Aid Kit: Stocked with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and personal medications. There are some kits out there that even include an emergency warming blanket. I typically keep a tourniquet in my kit as well.
- Weather Protection: Rain gear, extra layers, and sun protection.
- Wildlife Precautions: Bear spray and food storage containers if in bear country.
4. Extras for Comfort & Fun
Not everything has to be about survival; enjoy the experience!
- Chairs & Table: For relaxing around the campsite.
- Camera or Binoculars: Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Fishing Gear: If camping near water and permitted.
- Books or Games: Great for downtime at camp.
Final Thoughts
Preparation is key when heading off-road for camping. By bringing the right gear, you ensure safety, comfort, and a memorable adventure. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out what you bring in, and respect the trails and wildlife.
What are your must-have items for off-road camping? Share them in the comments below!
