Techniques for bush driving
Just like driving on the beach, four wheel driving in the bush requires a certain finesse. Due to the often dense vegetation and rugged terrain, it’s important to approach bush trails with caution, particularly if it's your first time in the area. Skills such as hill climbing, rock crawling and water crossings can take on new dimensions depending on the landscape and it’s always important to give the road ahead your full attention.
When driving on non-paved roads, watch out for sharp stones or exposed tree roots as these can easily burst a tyre if given the chance. Corrugated gravel roads present additional challenges, primarily because of the vibrations they cause, and will require you to find the ‘sweet spot’ on your speedo that allows you to coast over those annoying washboard grooves. Of course, another challenge you’ll have to face once you’ve gone bush is the copious amounts of wildlife around every corner. Be extra vigilant around dusk and dawn as this is when nocturnal wildlife will pose the biggest risk to you and your vehicle. Stay alert and remember never to swerve, your life is more important.
Depending on the weather, and your location, you may encounter some mud holes along your route whilst off-roading (we’re looking at you Tasmania). These can vary tremendously from easily crossable to nightmare bog status and will usually require a thorough assessment prior to crossing. If you have access to a stick or branch, it’s advisable to test the depth of the water whilst also gauging whether or not the bottom is solid or soft. If it’s looking like it’s going to be a tough one, get your winch ready and have your people standing by to jump into action to pull you out ASAP should you get stuck - the inside of your vehicle will thank you later.
Safety precautions
As always, safety cannot be overlooked. Reliable communication devices are a must, with two-way radios and satellite phones being a good way to stay in contact with fellow off-roaders. If you’re new to four-wheel driving, consider adopting the buddy system or travel in a convoy to ensure no one is left behind (or worse). Typically, convoy procedure dictates maintaining contact with the vehicle directly behind you, either visually or via radio, with the leading driver not diverting from their current track until the following vehicle has seen where they’ve gone. Not only is this safer, it’s also a lot more fun. It’s also important to educate yourself on vehicle recovery techniques and basic first aid skills because you never know what can go wrong when you’re in the bush.
Maintenance and care
Maintaining your vehicle is essential to ensure its reliability and performance in the long run. Conducting a pre-trip inspection is crucial; don’t overlook checking your fluid levels, tyre condition, and the integrity of the brake system as a starting point. Cleaning your vehicle post-off-roading is equally important, as mud, debris and water can take a toll on delicate components. After washing thoroughly, inspect for any signs of damage and consider applying rust prevention measures to help prolong the lifespan of your vehicle. Regular maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and filter replacements, should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
There’s nothing quite like going bush, so pack up your car and get ready to hit the road. We’re sure you’ll have an epic adventure!
