Top Tips For 4×4 Driving On The Beach – How Best To Prepare For Sand Driving
With approximately 34,000 kilometres of coastline and over 10,000 pristine beaches, Australia really is an epic playground for anyone who loves the great outdoors and spending time in and around the water.
Being complete four wheel driving novices when we first hit the road, getting some expert advice and tuition was a great way for us to learn the basics and build up some confidence to hit the sand for an adventurous family day out.
Since then we’ve enjoyed four wheel driving on many beaches around the country and absolutely love it! From the spectacular 80 Mile Beach in Western Australia, the world famous Cable Beach in Broome, or the truly incredible environment of K’Gari Fraser Island, there is nothing quite like the feeling of freedom that comes with accessing these special places.
If you’re keen to get your 4×4 on the beach, check out these quick tips on how best to prepare for sand driving, from our good mate Tony at Australian 4×4 Treks:
1. TYRE PRESSURES
Drop your tyre pressures to 10-12 psi – this helps to make a larger footprint and stay on top of the sand, as opposed to sinking down into the sand.
2. KEEP MOMENTUM
Keep a controlled momentum when driving on the sand – not too fast, but fast enough to stay on top of the sand, not sink into it.
3. CONTROL STEERING
Keep your steering controlled and stay as straight as possible. Resist the urge to turn the wheel to avoid resistance from the sand against your tyre walls.
4. TURN OFF THE TECH
Turn off your vehicle’s technology – the vehicle stability control and traction control will work against you when driving in the sand.
Check out our Fraser Island Part 1 episode including the full Sand Driving Masterclass by clicking the image below:
Driving on the beach can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, however it is necessary to make sure that you are fully prepared for it. Check out next week’s blog that details the 4×4 and recovery gear recommended, and everything you need to prepare before hitting the sand.
Remember not to drive above your limits, stay alert, and above all else, take some time to appreciate the beauty of Australia’s beaches while enjoying your four wheel driving adventure! Happy trails!
- Feel Good in Coober Pedy – Camping Coober Pedy
- Feel Good at Uluru – Camping Uluru
- Feel Good at Alice Springs – Camping Alice Springs
