PACK IT UP; PACK IT IN - PACKING TIPS FOR ADVENTURE IN THE WILD

By Sue Mead: You’ve placed your 2021 Bronco reservation – smart choice! You cannot wait to get it in your driveway and show it off to family, friends, and the neighbors. Good start! With all the capability it offers, you want to “get-off-the-road” in it; that’s what it’s all about! However, this Bronco will be the first off-road vehicle you have owned, and you wonder what you need to know before setting out on your first adventure. What are the rules? What are the bare essentials? How much is too much and how much is too little? What are the best ways to stow goods and gear? There are a number of different answers for journeys of varying lengths and, likewise, there are different recommendations for solo adventures, trips for two, or forays for four. To start off, talk to others who are experienced four wheelers that take day trips or travel longer and further into the backcountry, with limited or no facilities. Check out forums. Do your homework. I have been a professional off-roader for more than 30 years. I have been four-wheeling in more than four dozen countries, participated in a number of 4WD expeditions and drives around the globe, and raced in lengthy, international off-road competitions. When it comes to packing, I have had many experiences learning how to get things “just right." I’ve taken too much, carried too little and come to learn over time what is best for me and each trip. You will too! It’s impossible to address all the needs of different trips in a short primer, however, here is a list of some of the basics for packing to get you started: 1. Plan Ahead: Make a list and check it twice before you head out the door. Pack your vehicle, unpack it and load it up again to make the best decisions about the placement of gear and goods, weight and balance, visibility, and secured stowage. This will also help you get to know your Bronco and appreciate all of its clever nooks, crannies and laudable stowage solutions. The Bronco’s designers have ensured that you’ll be able to keep many important items close at-hand. Look at maps, GPS, and Google Earth to study and get to know your route and the nearby services. 2. Safety First! Make sure you have a good basic first aid kit or purchase one that is top-of-the line and know what’s in it. Make sure it’s easily accessible for you and your crew and to help others along the trail, if needed. Other items in this category include flashlights, headlamps, thermal blankets, fire starters, and even a small fire extinguisher. Cell phones (remember chargers and waterproof carrying cases), two-way radios, and even Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) can be lifesavers for trips into remote regions, as can sunscreen and insect repellant. And remember to pack extra batteries for the electronic items. There are videos and classes on safety tips and tricks for the backcountry – be educated. 3. The Basics: Water, food, extra medicines, and clothing for hot and cold weather are the core essentials (bring clothing to layer and head coverings). Humans can go without food for three weeks or more but typically will not survive without water for more than three to four days. Water weighs approx. 8 lbs. a gallon (keep that in mind while planning how to pack), but is worth its weight in gold, when needed. Consider energy drinks, as well, and don’t worry about dieting on a campout or overland trip. When I race and am on extreme expeditions, we always eat high-calorie food and make sure we have a bit of extra salt, as it can be sweated out. Footwear is important; sturdy shoes and/or mud boots are always recommended, depending on terrain, plus a comfortable pair of sandals or crocs for the campsite. Bring a day pack for hiking and other activities, or in the event that you need to walk out. Bring extra cash. If you bring a pet, consider its needs as well. 4. Shelter Yourself: Simple tarps and plastic can make quick and easy shelter from weather, to set up camp, for cooking and meal prep, to sleep under, or to use for cover to set up your tent. One of my favorite go-to’s is zip ties – they come in many sizes and colors and are handy while setting up! Use stuff sacks for tents and sleeping bags; sacks double up as a pillow when filled with clothing! Bring extra rope of various widths, strengths, and lengths. 5. Tools Rule! Have a basic tool kit, a tow strap, shackles, and good leather gloves. Definitely consider purchasing a “recovery gear” kit with these and other items that you’ll be stoked to have onboard, if needed. Other gear I love includes a high-lift or “safe jack” (if your vehicle will accommodate it) or an airbag jack, a piece of wood to place your jack on for muddy and sandy terrain, and a portable shovel. 6. Pack It In: Packing is key for accessibility and safety! Use your roof rack or a rear cargo carrier for bikes or a kayak, but be aware that excess weight overall and especially on top of your vehicle could change your weight distribution and center of gravity on sidehills (use good rachet straps!). Inside your Bronco, heavy items should be loaded on the bottom layer and secured using tie downs, ratchet straps, and bungies. Next, add lighter weight items and secure, as well. Consider getting a cargo barrier and/or mesh or netting to keep items safely in place in the event of any type of quick stop or accident. Keep handy and easily accessible (like the first aid kit) what’s needed in order of importance and use. 7. Tread Lightly! You may have heard the expression “pack out what you pack in” meaning take everything you bring out on the trail back with you. And do not take anything from the trail. Leave nature where it belongs. Stay on trails and be thoughtful of fragile ecosystems alongside the trail, whether hiking, biking, or camping. Ford is a sponsor of Tread Lightly, an organization dedicated to outdoor ethics to enhance recreational opportunities. They are a great resource for more info on how to enjoy your experience while protecting the land. 8. Leave behind your agenda and trip location, with expected return. Leave the itinerary of your trip with someone who can notify emergency services if you do not return when expected. Make copies of important papers, such as vehicle insurance and registration, health insurance, and credit card info in a location for quick access, if needed. Leave work and worries behind, too! Bring cameras, go-pros, and your sense of humor and adventure. After all, you’re a Bronco owner—and that’s what this is all about! Author Bio: Sue Mead is an automotive journalist and a member of the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. She has been a professional off-roader for 30+ years, including involvement in racing and expeditions around the globe.