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!
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April 20, 2023 @ 2:53 pm
Great tips for 4×4 driving on the beach! It’s important to remember that safety should always come first, especially when it comes to traveling with children. When driving on the sand, it’s crucial to make sure that children are properly secured in booster seats that are appropriate for their size and weight. This will help to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident or sudden stop. Thanks for the helpful advice!
June 21, 2023 @ 6:12 pm
This article provides top tips for 4×4 driving on the beach, offering valuable insights and practical advice on how to prepare for sand driving, making it highly relevant to readers who seek a safe and enjoyable beach off-roading experience.
October 23, 2023 @ 4:36 pm
Hi I was wondering if you were going to produce a e book on your cape York trip and what was dates you did the trip as I am going there next year i enjoy what you do. Thanks Norman
December 10, 2023 @ 8:58 pm
Just watched your utube in the Flinders Ranges and not sure that you mentioned the name of the property you were parked on, we are planning to head that way next year, would you mind giving us the name of the property please?
Pam and Ian Lloyd