As much fun as off-roading can be, without some basic jeep essentials it can soon turn into a nightmare.
Here is a quick checklist of essentials for your jeep every serious jeeper must invest in.
Hi-Lift Jack:
An extremely useful recovery tool. This comes in handy when the jeep is unable to move under its own steam for whatever reasons. Using the hi-lift jack you can move your rig up, down, laterally, forward and back. A great tool for changing a flat, getting out of muddy spots and toppling the rig off boulders. It even doubles as an inexpensive winch.
Fire Extinguisher:
Anything is possible when off roading and unless you fancy seeing your rig go up in smoke, install a fire extinguisher immediately. Look for fire extinguishers with built-in pressure gauges.
Flash Light:
Have you even tried changing a flat in the pitch-black darkness that comes with night in the wilderness? Absolutely indispensable. Carry extra batteries as well.
CB Radio:
Look for a nice compact radio with basic features that can be easily mounted on your rig. You could get one with fancy bells and whistles but those don't necessarily work better.
Drinking Water:
Do we really need to explain this? Just make sure you have plenty of drinking water to last you the length of your trip. Also, if the trip is going to be extra long carry some water purifying tablets along for emergencies.
Come-Along:
Extremely handy when the winch gives way.
Duct Tape:
A great fix-all for leaky cables, loose pipes and a radiator hose that refuses to stop leaking.
First Aid Kit:
An absolute must have on every single road trip you take.
Tow Strap:
Of all the jeep essentials, this one is probably used the most. This is the only way you will be able to release a rig that is stuck in the snow or mud. It is also a useful tool when going on a jeep jamboree to help fellow jeepers if they get stuck.
Essential Fluids:
Oil, coolant and transmission fluid are the very basic three. Carry along a funnel that will allow you to pour the fluid down easily.
Spare:
This is one of the jeep essentials you don’t want to be without. Check and see that your spare is in top shape. If you've recently had a flat ensure that the punctures have been fixed. If you haven't used your spare in a long while then check to ensure that it is not low on air.
Fan Belts:
A broken fan belt can be easily fixed if you are carrying a spare. Else the situation can escalate into serious problems.
Universal Joints:
Make sure your extra universal joints match the style steering column your rig has.
Jumper Cables:
These are jeep essentials that can really help when off-roading. It is extremely inconvenient for serious jeepers to be stuck because someone's rig has broken down. Jumper cables are the fastest way to revive your battery - or maybe someone else's!
Small Tool Kits:
The tool kit should include basic tools like a screwdriver, wench and some electrical tape. A loose wire or battery cable can be easily fixed.
Fix A Flat:
A great way to fix minor punctures and prevent major flats. You just spray the liquid into the tire and it immediately seals the puncture and inflates the tire. It won't last your entire off-roading trip but will surely allow you to get to the nearest gas station or a good spot to change your flat.
Other than the above jeep essentials you may also want to add a warm blanket, an extra pair of gloves, a few rags and an extra pair of walking shoes. Another thing to carry is your cell phone. While you may not always have connectivity it is almost guaranteed to cut short your walk out of the boondocks.
