4WD driving tips for beginners

A 4WD is, at its core, a gateway to Australia’s most remote and spectacular destinations. With the right set of wheels, you can access breathtaking spots far beyond the reach of standard cars:  

• Reach remote destinations: Some of Australia’s most stunning locations are off-limits to regular vehicles. Think of the steep climbs of Cape York or the rugged tracks through the Kimberley. A 4WD gives you the freedom to explore these hidden gems. 

• Boost your sense of adventure: Taking on challenging terrains – from muddy rainforest paths to red desert dunes – is all part of the fun. Best of all, the drive itself becomes an adventure, testing your skills and rewarding you with unmatched views along the way. 

• Stay safe and comfortable: With a Britz 4WD, you’ll be equipped with features designed for off-road comfort and safety, like high-clearance suspension and robust tyres. These vehicles are built to handle tough conditions while keeping you and your family secure. 

Exploring with a 4WD not only lets you experience the Australian Outback in all its glory but also adds a sense of independence and self-reliance while adventuring in these off-the-beaten-track destinations. 

READ MORE: Want to learn more about where a 4WD can take you? Check out some of the top 4WD guides and itineraries below:  

• Best 4WD itineraries 

• Best 4WD road trip destinations 

• Road restrictions for 4WD with Britz 

• How to drive a 4WD 

• What to know before going on a 4WD holiday 

Before you set off: preparation tips

Preparation is key to any successful 4WD adventure. From knowing your vehicle inside and out to packing smart and planning your route, these steps will set you up for a smoother, safer trip. 

1. Understand your 4WD vehicle

Before hitting the road, spend some time familiarising yourself with your Britz 4WD. Knowing how your vehicle works will make a big difference when you’re out on the tracks. Things to check before setting off:  

• Learn about features like high-range and low-range gears, which are essential for tackling different terrains. 

• Check your tyre pressure – while this is done for you at pick-up, it’s important to know how to adjust it if needed. Lower pressure is often required for sandy conditions, while higher pressure is better for rocky trails. 

• Get comfortable with the size of the vehicle, including its height and width. A sticker inside the van displays the height, which is especially handy for navigating under low-clearance bridges or through tight tracks. 

• Adjust your mirrors before setting off to ensure optimal visibility on all sides. 

Did you know? You can also watch the handy Britz guide on the thl Roadtrip app, which walks you through your 4WD’s features and offers practical tips for the road. 

2. Pack the essentials

One of the perks of a hire vehicle is that most essentials are already included. Britz vehicles come fully equipped with the basics to make your trip comfortable (for more, check out the full guide on what’s included with your 4WD hire). That way, you can focus on the essentials that matter: 

• Stock up on food and water for your journey. Remote locations often lack reliable access to supplies. 

• Make sure you have the right gear for your trip. Need help knowing where to start? Britz provides a useful 4WD packing list to help you prepare. 

• Download offline maps to ensure you can navigate even in areas without mobile reception. Apps like Maps.me or Google Maps offline are great tools for this. 

Having the right essentials on hand can make your trip more comfortable and help you handle unexpected situations with ease. 

3. Plan your route

Careful planning goes a long way when it comes to 4WD travel. Research the tracks you want to explore and ensure you’re aware of any permits, weather conditions, or restrictions. Here are a few things to check before setting out:  

• Look for 4WD-friendly tracks that suit your skill level and interests. Need ideas? Check out this guide to the best 4WD destinations in Australia. 

• Check the weather forecast and stay updated on road conditions. Sudden rain can quickly make some tracks impassable. 

• Plan around road restrictions by referring to Britz’s road restrictions guide. 

By planning your route ahead, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress or unexpected hiccups and ensure you can focus on enjoying the adventure. 

4WD driving techniques for beginners

Okay, now for the good stuff! Below, we are going to take you through some essential 4WD driving techniques that will make your off-road adventure much smoother and safer. From understanding how to adjust tyre pressure to navigating tricky terrains confidently, these beginner-friendly tips will help you make the most of your 4WD road trip adventure. 

Adjust tyre pressure

One of the most important off-road driving tips is learning to adjust your tyre pressure for different terrains. Proper tyre pressure improves traction and makes it easier to handle your vehicle on challenging surfaces. Here is a little breakdown of the level of tyre pressures for different terrains you may encounter on your trip: 

• Sand: When encountering sandy roads, you will want to reduce the tyre pressure. Lowering your tyre pressure increases the surface area in contact with the sand, preventing your vehicle from sinking. Aim for around 18-20 PSI when driving on sandy tracks. 

• Mud and rocky terrain: For muddy trails or rocky surfaces, slightly lowering your tyre pressure helps your tyre grip better and reduces the risk of punctures. Somewhere in the range of 22-26 PSI will likely be a good place to start.  

Remember to carry a tyre pressure gauge and a portable air compressor, as you’ll need to re-inflate your tyres when returning to sealed roads. Also, check your tyre pressure regularly throughout your trip, especially after long stretches of rough terrain. 

Maintain momentum

Keeping a steady momentum is key to successfully navigating soft or uneven terrain. When driving off-road, be sure to keep in mind:  

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp acceleration on sand or mud, as this can cause you to lose traction and get stuck. Instead, ease onto the accelerator and maintain a consistent speed. 

• On rocky trails, take it slow and steady to avoid damaging your tyres or suspension. Carefully pick your line through obstacles like rocks or tree roots to ensure all four wheels remain grounded. 

When approaching a hill or incline, build up just enough momentum to carry you to the top without spinning your wheels. Too much speed can make you lose control, while too little might leave you stranded halfway up. 

Engage 4WD mode correctly

Knowing when to engage your 4WD mode and how to switch between high-range and low-range gears is crucial for tackling different terrains.  

• High-range gears: These gears enable a vehicle to move forward or backward without altering the gearing, making them ideal for driving at higher speeds. These are perfect for light off-roading or driving on gravel and dirt roads. In short, high range is ideal for maintaining speed while still getting the extra traction of 4WD. 

• Low-range gears: In contrast, low-range gears are used when you require more power. Switch to low-range when driving on steep inclines, rocky surfaces, or deep sand. Low-range provides extra torque and control, vital for navigating slow, challenging sections. 

Before switching modes, ensure your vehicle is stationary or moving slowly, and always consult your Britz 4WD manual for specific instructions. 

Keep a safe distance

Off-road conditions often reduce visibility, especially on dusty tracks or in convoy situations. Allowing extra space between vehicles ensures you have plenty of time to react. 

• On dusty roads, leave enough distance for the dust to settle, giving you a clear view of the track ahead. 

• On uneven terrain, keeping a safe distance ensures you’re not forced to stop abruptly, which could cause you to lose momentum and get stuck. 

In convoy driving, use radios or hand signals to communicate with other vehicles and maintain safe spacing. 

Other top 4WD driving tips

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you navigate Australia’s 4-wheel drive tracks: 

• Drive on the left: In Australia, always stick to the left side of the road. This applies even on remote tracks where it might seem less obvious. 

• Avoid driving at dawn, dusk, or night: Wildlife is most active during these times, increasing the risk of animal strikes. If you must drive, reduce your speed and stay alert. 

• Be mindful of overhead clearance: Shopping centre car parks with shade sails or low-clearance bridges may not accommodate the height of your Britz 4WD. Always double-check before entering. 

• Take it slow around corners: Uneven surfaces can make sharp turns tricky, so reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements. 

• Crossing water: Be cautious when driving through water. Check out Britz’s detailed guide to crossing water in a 4WD for expert advice. 

• Use a spotter when reversing: Have a passenger guide you when reversing in tight or obstructed areas to avoid collisions with obstacles. 

• Know your limits: If you’re unsure about tackling a particular section of track, don’t push yourself. It’s better to turn back than risk damage or getting stuck. 

• Call for help if needed: Got questions or need assistance? Britz offers a 24/7 helpline – the phone number is on your vehicle key tag. 

Key safety tips when travelling by 4WD

Safety should always be a top priority when tackling 4-wheel drive tracks in the Australian Outback. Follow these essential tips to ensure a smooth and secure journey: 

• Check water and mud conditions: Never drive into water or mud without first checking the depth and firmness. Use a stick or wade in to gauge the conditions. Again, Britz has a great guide to crossing water in a 4WD that provides step-by-step advice. 

• Avoid travelling alone: Remote areas can be unpredictable. Always let someone know your route and expected arrival times. If possible, travel with others or in a convoy for extra safety. 

• Consider a satellite phone: Mobile reception is often unavailable in remote areas. Adding a satellite phone to your booking ensures you can contact help in emergencies. 

• Monitor the weather: Weather in Australia can change rapidly, impacting road conditions and even causing closures. Regularly check updates to avoid getting caught off-guard. 

• Maintain safe distances: Off-road tracks often create dust clouds or challenging visibility. Keep clear of other vehicles to give everyone enough space to manoeuvre safely. 

• Travel in a convoy: While optional, travelling with other vehicles is safer and adds to the fun of your trip. You can assist each other if needed. 

• Pack emergency supplies: Always have plenty of food, water, and a basic first-aid kit in case of unforeseen delays. 

• Take breaks: Long drives can be exhausting. Stop regularly to stretch, refuel, and stay alert. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents on long road trips. 

• Fuel up often: Fuel stations can be few and far between in remote areas. Always ensure your tank is full before venturing off-road, and carry extra fuel if your trip covers long distances.