Now that the warm weather and long evenings are here with us - even briefly - it’s a good time to make the most of your 4x4. If you’re the owner of a four-wheel drive vehicle but you’re not sure how to get the best out of it in summer, then let us share six seasonal tips for things to do.
Some of these might be activities you’ve tried before, and others may not have crossed your mind. The ultimate aim is to enjoy yourself while getting the most out of your 4x4!
Try your hand at off-roading
If you’re reading this, then the chances are high that you’ve already given off-roading a go. But if you’ve got a 4x4 and you’ve not yet made use of its superior capabilities on different terrain types, the summer is the perfect time to start. You’re less likely to get stranded in mud thanks to drier weather, and you’ll have more daylight hours in which to travel to an off-roading route.
4x4s are built for more than just paved roads, allowing you to reach places other vehicles can’t, but you should always keep safety at the forefront of everything you do. Get to know your vehicle’s capabilities and handling with a low-intensity course first.
Here are just a few of our recommendations from our previous post on off-road courses.
Plan a staycation with camping
Despite times being a little harder on the finances right now, everyone still needs a holiday to unwind and reset. If you’ve got a 4x4, there are plenty of opportunities out there to take a trip right here in the UK. You’ve got room for all the essential camping gear, as well as a few luxuries, so embrace the spirit of summer and get away for some rest and relaxation.
Whether you choose a remote spot or a much-loved camping site, you’ll have all the storage you need to make the most of your trip. You can even find special additions to your 4x4 that allow you to adapt your vehicle, such as roof tents.
If you decide to go abroad with your 4x4 instead, take a look at our top tips.
Plan a rural road trip
One of the great things about owning a 4x4 is that you have the freedom to head off into the countryside without worry. From quaint Welsh countryside towns that you can explore to the rolling hills of rural England, you can see it all from the comfort of your 4x4.
Make sure you have a map and your GPS to help keep you on the right route and to plan your stops with, and check out some of our recommended routes in the UK here.
Go for a sunset drive
There are few sights quite as mesmerising and relaxing as a summer sunset. Taking a leisurely drive - either on one of our recommended routes or just in your local area - means you’ll get to appreciate the changing colours of the sky. It’s a great evening activity to enjoy with a loved one or if you’re an avid photographer looking for some picturesque skyline shots.
Relax with a spot of fishing
Combine the joy of driving your 4x4 with the tranquillity and calm of fishing. You can reach some of the best, most remote fishing spots using your 4x4, and you’ll always have ample room for all your essential fishing gear. From multiple rods and a comfortable chair to a full picnic, it’s the ideal vehicle for this activity.
Always make sure you respect local fishing guidelines and regulations for your chosen spot.
Take the time to upgrade your 4x4
Last but not least, you can always use the comfortable temperatures, drier conditions and extended daylight to give your 4x4 some attention. From upgrading your tyres and suspension system to the more routine oil change and cleaning, it’s the perfect time to enhance the look of your vehicle and the performance you get from it.
If you’re looking for parts, accessories and tools for your 4x4 this summer - whether you own a Ford Ranger or a Mitsubishi L200 - at Milner Off Road we’ve got you covered. As a leading supplier of 4x4 parts with decades of experience, you can be sure you’re getting the best quality for whatever it is you need.
Order online today and get free delivery in the UK when you meet the minimum qualifying spend. We even ship our parts internationally, so you can get what you need, when you need it.