How to Plan the Ultimate Off-Road Road Trip in Your SUV

Taking an off-road road trip in your SUV can be an exhilarating way to explore the great outdoors. With some preparation and SUV modifications, you can have an epic adventure. Here are some tips for planning the ultimate off-road road trip:

Choose Your Route

The first step is deciding where you want to go. Do your research to find remote trails and challenging terrain for off-roading. National forests and BLM lands offer miles of unpaved roads to explore. Consider making your route a loop so you finish where you started.

Decide how many miles you want to cover each day. Off-roading will be slower than highway driving. Allow time for breaks to take in the scenery and overcome obstacles. Identify camping locations or towns to overnight along the way. Mark your route on maps or apps like Gaia GPS.

Prep Your SUV

A stock SUV may not be ready for intense off-road trails. Certain SUV Modifications can improve ground clearance, traction, suspension articulation and more. Consider these upgrades:

Lift kit – Raises the chassis for more ground clearance over rocks and ruts. Allows for fitting larger tires.
Skid plates – Protects the underbody and vital components like engine oil pan.
Better tires – All-terrain or mud terrain tires provide traction in dirt, mud, sand. More aggressive tread and sidewall protection.
Suspension upgrades – A suspension lift kit, shocks and springs optimized for off-road improve wheel articulation and ride quality over rough terrain.
Armor – Rock sliders, bumpers, skid plates protect from trail damage. Winches can extract you from stuck situations.

Pack Properly

Careful packing will make your trip more comfortable. Essentials to include:

Camping gear – tent, sleeping bags, camp stove, chairs
Food and water – Bring more than enough, replenish when possible
Tools – shovels, axe, hi-lift jack, tow straps, extra fuel
Spare parts – belts, hoses, fluids, fuses, filters, bulbs
Off-road gear – traction boards, gloves, recovery gear
Emergency supplies – first aid kit, fire extinguisher, blankets

Keep the gear organized in storage containers and distribute the weight evenly—don’t overload the SUV.

Get Proper Training

If you’re new to off-roading, get some training first. Find an off-road driving school that provides instruction on techniques like:

Picking proper lines on terrain
Maintaining momentum over obstacles
Climbing and descending steep inclines
Crossing water, mud or snow safely
Avoiding obstacles like rocks, stumps and holes

Practice recovery techniques like winching, using traction boards and digging out. Learning the basics will make your trip safer and more enjoyable.

Check Local Laws and Regulations

Public lands have rules about where you can drive and camp. Research regulations for the areas you’ll be visiting. Obtain permits if needed. Stay on designated motor vehicle roads and trails. Practice Leave No Trace ethics.

File a Trip Plan

Before departing, leave an itinerary and contact details with a family member or friend. Check in periodically via satellite messenger or another device. This provides peace of mind should any emergencies arise far from help.

With the right preparation, the ultimate off-road road trip in your capable SUV will give you memories to last a lifetime. Drive responsibly, respect the environment, and enjoy the freedom of remote backcountry travel.