Essential Kit
- Shovel & Base Plate: Use a base plate to stop your jack from sinking into soft sand.
- Tyre Gear: Bring a compressor and a tyre pressure gauge for adjusting pressures on the go.
- Fuel: Start with a full tank — sand driving burns more fuel than usual.
Vehicle Preparation
- Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary weight to improve traction.
- Sand Flag: Attach a sand flag for better visibility in dune areas.
- Note: In the Simpson Desert, all vehicles must be fitted with sand flags.
Driving Techniques
Braking: Ease off the accelerator to slow down; avoid sudden braking.
Tyre Pressure: Lower your tyre pressures to increase surface area (floatation), improve grip, and reduce puncture risk.
Speed & Gears:
Use high range for open, faster tracks.
Use low range for tight, technical sections.
Always drive at a safe, controlled speed — even on flat ground.
Momentum: Keep a steady pace; avoid aggressive acceleration or braking.
Traction Control: Disable stability control and engage 4WD. Cross-axle lockers are usually not needed.
Stuck?: If wheels start to spin, stop immediately and gently reverse out. Spinning will only dig you in deeper.
Visibility: Keep your headlights on to stay visible to others.
https://www.4wdvictoria.org.au/iconic4wd/index.php/4wd-hints-tips/9-tips-sand-driving