The Australian outback is one of the most untouched, picturesque places on the planet.

It’s also one of the most unforgiving.

With vast stretches of rugged terrain, totally remote areas, and miles and miles of areas with little to no cell service, it’s all too easy to get in trouble.

An enjoyable off-roading trip requires extensive preparation and knowledge of the potential challenges the outback can throw at you.

If you’re going off-roading in a remote location, it is crucial to have the best 4WD accessories. The proper equipment and preparation can equip you to handle the unforgiving environment and harsh terrain of the outback.

That is why me and my team of 4×4 experts put together the ultimate list of must-have 4WD accessories to help you prepare for a safe, successful, enjoyable off-roading adventure.

The Best 4WD Accessories Include:

Recovery Gear
Adequate Lighting
Portable Fridge
First Aid Kit
Cargo Barriers and Drawers
GPS Navigation
Heavy Duty Suspension
Tyre Repair Kit
Backup Battery System
Bull Bar
Communication Devices
Long Range Fuel Tank
Tool Kit and Spare Parts
Roof Rack
Water Crossing Bra and Snorkel
Extra Fuel and Water
Fire Extinguisher
Recovery Tracks
Portable Air Compressor
Fire Starter

The Ultimate List of Must-Have 4WD Accessories

Here’s the ultimate list of the best 4WD accessories for your off-roading adventures.

1. Recovery Gear

Recovery gear needs to be the first item on any off-roading list when it comes to must-have 4WD accessories.

When you’re off-roading in the outback, you may find yourself stuck in mud or sand at some point. It is imperative to have a winch, shackles, and snatch strap handy in case you need to pull your vehicle out of a mucky situation.

Make sure you have the proper recovery equipment and knowledge of how to use it safely and effectively. Improper use of recovery equipment can damage your 4×4 or put you or others at risk of injury.

2. Adequate Lighting

Driving off-road at night in the outback requires proper lighting to avoid obstacles, prevent collisions with wildlife, and navigate rough terrain safely.

Spotlights and LED lights are some of the most essential 4WD accessories for your off-roading excursions.

3. Portable Fridge

A portable fridge is a convenient item to have when off-roading in remote locations and one of the best 4WD camping accessories. As opposed to coolers, portable refrigerators maintain a constant, set temperature to keep your food and drinks reliably cold and fresh. Many portable refrigerators can be powered by your vehicle’s battery.

4. First Aid Kit

As with recovery gear, a first aid kit is one of the top must-haves for your trips. It can take time for medical professionals to reach you in the event of a medical emergency in the outback. A good first aid kit can help you stay safe until help arrives.

Your first aid kit should contain basic medical supplies to treat minor illnesses or injuries, such as:

Antiseptic wipes
Alcohol wipes
Medical tape
Emergency blanket
Antibiotic ointment
Tweezers
Disposable gloves
Cold pack
Burn gel and burn dressing
CPR mask
Bandages
Gauze pads
Pain relievers
A wilderness first-aid guide
Specific medical supplies or medications required by any member of your group (i.e. inhaler, epi-pen, etc.)

5. Cargo Barriers and Drawers

Cargo barriers prevent the gear you are hauling from getting thrown throughout the vehicle in the event of a crash. Keeping gear secure in a crash prevents it from getting thrashed around and potentially hitting the occupants of the vehicle.

Cargo drawers are a convenient way to keep your items organised and make it easy to find what you need.

6. GPS Navigation

A GPS navigation system that is specifically designed for off-roading could be a lifesaver when off-roading.

Off-road GPS navigation comes integrated with specialised mapping features that detail changes in elevation, reveal obstacles, and show contours in the terrain. This can make navigation easier and safer when you’re travelling through remote areas and unpredictable terrain.

You can also find GPS systems for off-roading that offer additional features, such as traffic updates, weather updates, and extra-long battery life.

7. Heavy Duty Suspension

Off-roading trips are often synonymous with heavy gear loads. Carrying heavy loads is safer when your 4×4 is equipped with heavy duty suspension. Heavy duty suspension also helps ensure a smoother, more comfortable ride and can decrease unnecessary wear and tear to your 4×4.

8. Tyre Repair Kit

Rocks. Gravel. Sticks. Rough terrain.

Off-roading poses a high risk of a tyre puncture compared to typical roads.

A tyre repair kit is a must-have 4×4 accessory for all of your trips. Tyre repair kits generally contain plugs, a puncture repair tool, and sealant.

Along with a tyre repair kit, make sure you maintain proper tyre pressure for the conditions. You can learn all about the right tyre pressure for your 4×4 in my Ultimate 4WD Tyre Pressure Guide

9. Backup Battery System

No one wants to risk a battery failing in the bush, so a backup battery system is one of the must-have 4WD accessories.

A backup battery system can mean the difference between getting stranded or a safe return.

10. Bull Bar

Colliding with Australian wildlife can quickly end your off-roading journey. A bull bar can reduce the damage to your vehicle in the event of a collision with an animal and keep your family safer.

Read More: Ultimate Guide for Bull Bars

11. Communication Devices

Reliable communication is one of the most important safety aspects to consider for outback adventures, especially if you experience an emergency.

Many areas in the bush feature limited cell phone coverage, or none at all. This means backup communication is non-negotiable when you’re heading out to remote areas.

Two-way radios or satellite phones are must-have 4×4 accessories. Two-way radios enable communication between other members of your group so you can alert other drivers to hazards, route changes, or poor road conditions.

Satellite phones function through a satellite network, enabling you to send messages or make calls even in remote areas with unreliable cell phone coverage.

Select communication devices with high reliability, long battery life, and user friendly features.

12. Long-Range Fuel Tank

Running out of fuel is every off-roader’s nightmare.

When you’re deep in the bush, don’t expect to see petrol stations! Long trips in remote areas require a long-range fuel tank.

Before your trip, make sure your fuel tank has the capacity needed, and then some, to avoid getting stranded.

13. Tool Kit and Spare Parts

You have to be your own mechanic when you’re out in the bush, so a tool kit and adequate spare parts are crucial.

If you end up in trouble, the right tool kit can get you back to civilisation safely. Along with recovery gear and a tyre repair kit, be sure to have:

Adjustable wrenches
Screwdrivers
Hammer
Folding shovel
Pliers
Ratchets and sockets
Jumper cables
Tow strap
Hatchet
Saw
Vice grips
Grease gun
Spark plug socket
Breaker bar
Pry bar

14. Roof Rack

Roof racks are another one of the best accessories you can get.

A sturdy roof rack offers many benefits for off-roading, including:

Extra space for supplies and gear
Can easily carry and secure larger or awkward items, such as bicycles or kayaks
Allows for the ability to haul everything you need for a safe and successful trip
Can protect your 4×4 by keeping items safely off of its surface during long trips
Can redistribute the weight of your gear and maintain your vehicle’s centre of gravity for safer, more efficient hauling and better handling
Locking features secure your gear against theft

Opt for a roof rack made from steel or aluminium to make sure it can handle rough terrain and check to make sure the weight capacity matches your needs.

15. Water-Crossing Bra and Snorkel

Love 4×4 water crossings? So do we! But as much fun as they are, it’s important to protect your vehicle, equipment, and electronics against water damage.

A water crossing bra and snorkel are must-have accessories for your off-roading trips.

16. Fuel and Water Tanks

Extra fuel and enough water are the best 4WD camping accessories you can bring. However, even if you aren’t going on a camping trip, carrying extra fuel and water is non-negotiable.

Portable fuel and water containers ensure you always have the fuel you need to keep going on your journey and precious water should you get stranded in a remote area.

Opt for heavy duty containers that are certified for transporting water or fuel. You’ll also want to check into the space and weight requirements for your 4×4.

17. Fire Extinguisher

A portable fire extinguisher is another one of the must-have 4×4 accessories to bring on your trip. You can research mounting options and brackets to ensure your fire extinguisher is secure yet easy-to-reach if you need it.

18. Recovery Tracks

Traction difficulties can be a common challenge when off-roading. Recovery tracks offer additional grip on slippery or sandy surfaces, helping to reduce your risk of getting stuck.

19. Portable Air Compressor

As mentioned earlier, the right tyre pressure is key for a comfortable, safe off-roading trip. The right tyre pressure is important for a smooth ride, managing rough terrain, increasing fuel efficiency, and reducing your chance of a tyre puncture.

A portable air compressor means you always have an easy way to maintain proper tyre pressure when off-roading.

20. Fire Starter

No one wants to think about getting stranded in the middle of the outback, but it’s important to be prepared for anything. Having a fire starter ensures you can stay warm in a survival situation.

Nights in the bush can be surprisingly cool. Temps can fall below 0 C at night in the bush!

FAQs

What Are the Best 4WD Accessories for Beach Driving?

Must-have 4×4 accessories for beach driving include a reliable roof rack and a winch prepared to handle anything. Read more in our blog post on mods for beach driving.

What Tyres Do I Need for Off-Roading?

The right tires provide better handling, more durability, and improved traction when off-roading. Look for tyres specifically intended for off-roading. Off-road tyres will have reinforced sidewalls and tread patterns specifically designed for harsher terrain.

Planning a 4×4 Off-Roading Adventure?

Along with being prepared with the best 4WD accessories, there are other factors to keep in mind when planning your off-roading trip. At Elite Tune, we can help you plan for your off-road excursions, recommend the best mods for your vehicle, and ensure your 4WD’s maintenance is up to scratch.

Summary

Having the right accessories and mods can be the difference between a miserable and even dangerous trip and an adventure filled with fun memories.

My team of skilled technicians offers a wide range of quality 4×4 accessories and mod options so you can equip your 4WD vehicle to head into the bush confidently and safely. Contact us with questions or to book an appointment with our 4×4 experts.