There are times when the weather will ruin our plans and cause us to re-evaluate, but there are other times when we will push through the unfavored conditions and navigate our way through them. It is challenging to perform outdoor activities that involve moving when it rains, such as off-roading. Although off-roading in the rain has its difficulties, there are ways to keep you safe and ensure your trip through nature is satisfying.
Drive Slow
Rain makes the ground slick, which will make it hard for your tires to gain traction. No matter the location, you should always drive slowly to ensure you have time to react to any sudden instability in the car’s control. This slow pace will ensure your tires move with a natural momentum that allows easier steering and less chance of slipping. Maintaining a slow and steady pace will also decrease the likelihood that your rooftop tent will become detached.
Use Your Headlights
Rain causes decreased visibility, especially in wooded areas or flat plains. The use of headlights will help you see where you’re going and prevent you from crashing while off-roading in the rain. Using your high beams will allow you to see further ahead, while your low beams will help you see the ground; both will give you a clear picture while driving through nature.
Deflate Your Tires
The air in your tires creates pressure that accentuates the treads, making your tires gain traction on solid ground. As mentioned before, the rain makes the ground slick and hard to grip. Deflating your tires a little will give them a wider radius of traction to grab onto things such as rocks or roots. The softness of the tires will also allow the treads to latch onto things as they spread around objects on the ground.
Keep Moving
Momentum is an important aspect when off-roading in the rain. The wetness of the ground makes it harder for the tires to grip the road and stop when you brake, so stopping should only occur when necessary.
Make sure you use these tips when away from the road and exploring nature. It is always best to be aware of important knowledge to keep you alive and safe in harsh conditions.
