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[MoSun]

First and probably for most your going to need these items before taking off on your off-road adventure. This is not a comprehensive list and many other items could probably be included, but this list is a good staring point to insure a safe and hopefully fun off-road experiance. Make a check list and use it before you leave.

1. Find and know how to read a detailed TOPO map or a guide book: This is probably one of the most essential items on your list. GPS is fine but most GPS units don't provide adiquately detailed maps without loading in the additional TOPO maps. If you do bring a GPS remember to bring extra batteries and load in the TOPO maps of the area you plan to travel.
If this is your first time wheeling the area an experianced guide or someone familiar with the route that can lead you and or your group would be a very wise choice indeed.

2. Don't go alone : Know what the trail rating system means and evaluate yourself and your vehicle before you leave. Take a friend along as a spotter and photographer.

3. Make sure your rig is up the the challenge: A 2.5 - 3 inch lift and 33' tires should be your minimum before starting out on any off-road trip other than trails with a rating of 1 to 2+, but not more than a 2+ rating. Check your skid plates and rock rails. If you dont have skid plates and rock rails and you plan on using trails that are rated higher than 2+, get them installed now. Be prepaired to bump and grind because (it's going to happen) even on the less difficult trails. If you cant see where your going use a spotter.

4. Be prepared to get yourself out of any situation before you leave: A High_lift jack, 1 or 2 tow straps, shackles, shovel and a CB radio should be on your list as well as a cell phone and list of emergency numbers. These would be handy if you get lost, have a break down or an accident that requires immediate medical attention. Remember, your in the middle of nowhere at times and help is a very long way off.
Take along a winch if you think you might need it, and know how to use it before and after you get there.

5.Take an emergency first aid kit: along with some extra food and water (survival food like Military MRE's), a fire starter and an emergency blanket. If you take medication, don't forget to pack it.

6. Check the weather: If there is the possability you might need extra clothing, bring them. Weather patterns can sometimes change unexpectedly and extra clothes might just save your life.

7. Make safety your first priority: Trail conditions change over time and a trail that was listed as a 2+ just might turn out to be more than you and your rig can navigate safely. Remember, most of the time you can always turn around and find a different route.

These are what I consider my list of essentials. I would never consider going off-road unprepared or unassisted, and I always plan ahead.

MoSun