Free Off-Road Trip Checklist & PDF

IRON SAGEBRUSH / TRAIL NOTES

A little preparation goes a long way.

Before your next off-road trip, walk through the vehicle, gear, people and route checks below. Use it on your phone or keep the free PDF in your rig.

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01 / BEFORE YOU GO

Check the vehicle

Fluids & leaksCheck the fluids your vehicle requires using the owner’s manual. Look for leaks; address faults before leaving.Tires & spareInspect tread and sidewalls for damage. Check cold road pressures against the vehicle placard and inspect a suitable spare.Brakes, steering & suspensionAddress warning lights, unusual noises, looseness or poor braking. Have questionable components checked by a qualified mechanic.Belts, hoses & batteryLook for damaged belts or hoses, loose battery connections and unsecured cargo.Undercarriage & hardwareLook for damage, leaks or loose parts. Check wheel and other fasteners only to the correct manufacturer specifications.4WD & vehicle controlsKnow your 4WD, locker and other controls. Test only where and how the owner’s manual allows.

02 / BEFORE YOU GO

Pack the right gear

Tire kit & airCarry a pressure gauge, compressor, suitable repair kit, lug wrench and a jack rated for the vehicle with a stable base.Recovery planPack a shovel and traction boards where appropriate. Know the vehicle’s rated recovery points before you need them.Recovery equipmentInspect properly rated straps, shackles and other gear. Use only equipment you are trained to operate and follow its instructions.Winch, if equippedInspect rope or cable, attachments, controls and connections per the manufacturer. Never recover from a tow ball.Tools & practical sparesBring vehicle-appropriate tools, gloves and repair supplies you know how to use. Keep gear secured and within payload limits.Fuel & rangePlan fuel stops and a reserve for detours. Carry extra fuel only in approved, securely mounted containers as permitted.

03 / BEFORE YOU GO

Look after your people

Water, food & medicationsPack enough for everyone and an unexpected delay. Account for heat, cold, activity and any pets traveling with you.First aid & fire safetyBring a stocked first-aid kit and suitable secured fire extinguisher. Know how to use them.Light & shelterPack headlamps or flashlights, spare batteries, weather-appropriate layers and emergency shelter or blankets.CommunicationsCharge phones and power banks. Agree on group radio use; for remote trips, consider a satellite messenger and know how it works.Travel companionsFor remote trails, plan a second capable vehicle and a buddy. Agree on a turnaround time and how to stay together.Everyone readyUse seat belts and suitable child restraints. Drive sober and rested; choose a route within the driver’s and vehicle’s capabilities.

04 / BEFORE YOU GO

Know the route

Legal access & permitsConfirm that your vehicle is allowed on the route. Check permits, closures and seasonal restrictions with the land manager.Maps you can use offlineDownload maps before departure and carry a backup. On National Forest land, consult the applicable Motor Vehicle Use Map.Weather & conditionsCheck current forecasts and road conditions, including flood, snow and fire risks. Turn around when conditions exceed your limits.Share your trip planLeave your route, companions, vehicle details, expected return and overdue-response plan with someone at home.Leave it betterStay on designated routes, respect other trail users and pack out your trash. Follow local fire and waste rules.Before pavementIf you aired down, restore manufacturer-recommended road pressures. Return vehicle controls to the correct road settings and inspect for damage.

General planning aid, not a mechanical inspection or recovery-training guide. Adapt it to your vehicle, route and conditions. Follow owner’s manuals, equipment instructions and land-manager requirements. A checked box does not certify trail readiness.

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