Essential Equipment to Pack for an ATV or UTV Trip
The time has finally come. You’ve got your ATV/UTV trip all planned out, and you are ready for some serious off-roading adventures. However, how are you sure that you’ve packed everything that you need? Here at Trail Star Audio , we want to ensure the perfect ATV/UTV trip of your dreams. Interested to see what you should throw together for your trip? Keep reading!
ATV/UTV Tool Kit
One of the most important aspects of packing is making sure that you have everything you need for your ATV in case something happens mechanically. Along with the following recommendations, make sure you never ride alone! It is extra beneficial to have someone with you in case of an emergency. Some recommendations for an ATV/UTV tool kit include:
- Screwdrivers
- Multi-tool
- High power flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Dealer provided tools (most ATVs come with tools from the dealer)
- Extra hardware such as nuts and bolts
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire plug kit
- 12-volt air compressor
- Extra gas
As you’re riding, with each trip you’ll find that you may need something different than what you packed previously. Be sure to take notes and include that missing item in your next trip. This will help you grow your tool kit and make you more and more prepared with each trip!
ATV/UTV Riding Gear
Don’t be unprepared for your ride. Make sure you are dressed properly and are wearing the right equipment. Some examples of gear to pack and wear are:
- Helmet
- Boots
- Sunglasses
- Rain suit
- Windbreaker
It is best to dress in layers and pack extra layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Ensure that you have looked up weather conditions for the area in which you are riding. Even though weather predictions are usually correct, prepare for the unpredictable just in case, especially in the summer when thunderstorms can appear out of the blue!
ATV/UTV Survival Gear
Most of the time, you’ll be in very remote areas with no cellphone service. Prepare yourself in advance for any survival emergency!
- Cell phone with charger
- Maps and a GPS device
- Multi-tool
- Books
- First aid kit with basic medicines and bandages
As with the tool kit mentioned beforehand, keep adding to your first aid kit as time goes on. This will help improve the first aid kit and make it more effective if there were to be an actual emergency. Don’t rely on just a cellphone- service can be very spotty or non-existent on the trails. Make sure you bring maps and a GPS device for extra safety.
ATV/UTV Food and Water Gear
When it comes to off-roading, remember to pack food and water for basic human survival. Some people make stops during their trip and cook, while others have shorter trips and just want to pack the simple basics. Either way, make sure you have some type of food and water!
- Water and emergency water filter
- Electrolyte drinks
- Food (72 hours worth of food is recommended)
- High protein, high-fat snacks
- Firestarter (waterproof matches work great!)
- Stove and fuel if you plan on cooking
- Trash bags
Some great examples of snacks to bring are trail mix, jerky, dehydrated items, MREs, and power bars.
ATV/UTV Camping Gear
On some trips, ATV drivers come to a stop and set up camp. If this applies to you, keep reading to make sure your night of camping is a successful one!
- Bring some sort of shelter, such as a tent
- Sleeping bags
- Camp chair
- Rope (in case you are in a bear region and need to hang any food up in a tree)
- Toilet kit
ATV/UTV Living Necessities
Just because you're roughing it outdoors doesn't mean you should neglect your basic hygiene routine. It is important to bring toiletries to keep yourself clean and healthy.
- Soap
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Portable shower wipes
- Extra clothes (such as fleece jackets and coats if you’re in cold weather, or swimsuits and shorts if you’re in warm weather)
Many companies provide biodegradable soap and disposable toothbrushes. It is important not to trash the environment around you with your materials, so be mindful!
Hopefully, this list gives you a starting point when it comes to packing for your ATV/UTV trip. Keep in mind that these are just suggestions, and not an entirely comprehensive list depending on your needs. Every ATV/UTV rider is different, and you may need to adjust your packing list accordingly. Be safe, and happy trails!
