My advice of 40 years of camping - Listen to Ronny! I was smiling and clapping my hands when you started talking about picking up rubbish and not moaning about it. Even my wife piped up and and said "very good -informative and sensible".
My advice is unload your gear every 6 month or so and only put back in what you have used. Be surprised how much extra camping junk you never use that you haul, recovery/emergency gear excluded
Agree with this. Ive had my drawer system for about 8 months not and am due for its 2nd clean out. A bag of fishing tackle thats only been used once in that time will have to go I think as well as some other bits.
I went to a 4x4 shop and asked about lift kits. The guy behind the counter gave me amazing advice. He said my stock TJ is probably already more capable than my driving skill. He advised I don't spend money modify my vehicle until I know what size tires I want and am ready to spend a chunk of money to "do it rite". Pointed me to adding a winch and jerry can carrier before a lift kit and to get lockers before a light bar.
I live in Baja and alot of americans and mexicans travel around Baja and most of them are nice off road, they will help you out, greet you, and respect your space. So be nice to people, lend a hand, take care of nature, thats why we are there.
Number 1 camping item: ‘Master camping list’. Make a list on your device of everything you and your family need for a trip. Update it every time you think of something (or every time you forget something). You’ll never forget anything again.
It's funny, if we all pick up a little trash occasionally it really makes a big difference. I don't understand how people can litter the very bush they work so hard to visit.
here here, it's pretty ,simple if you could fit it in to get there. then it's gotta fit to take it back out. don't leave it for the rest of us to clean up your shit.
Hi from Switzerland! My advice would be...get the best out off what you've got. To me it seems that lots of people spend so much time and money to set up their car and completely forget why they are out there. Enjoy and soack in the beauty of the country! Don't spend your time in workshops and 4WD shops...get out there with whatever you can afford! We've travelled around Europe for years just with backpacks and tent, slept on the ground, but it was just perfect back then! My misses and I have been lucky enough to travel a few times in Australia. We usually spent 6 month there. Our first two trips have been along the east coast. We hitchhiked all the time and we had the time of our life. And hell...we walked a lot, far out! That was in 1989 and 1991 when Ivan Milat was very active. It was scary, but it was also interesting, because lots of Aussies did pick us up as they considered that it was too bloody dangerous to hitchhike. Even today we have lots of friends that we met back then, some of them I would even consider as family. We then did get an old Hilux for our third trip, and again we've had the time of our life! Sleeping in tents all the time. We kept it very very simple, but it was just great. No fridge, no modification, no nothing, but it just worked for us! We got the best out of it! We then bought an old Troopy. A hard top camper and that was just amazing. We had a fridge, yeah! I was finally able to crack a cold one from time to time. Pure luxury! I loved it! We kept that Troopy for more than ten years and traveled around the country, got down to Tassie, slept in the high country in snow, or explored WA and the NT in the summer heat. Uff...Spent part of the wet in Far north Queensland and so on. We just love Australia! It has so much to offer! Anyway I would love to see more people like you who pick up other peoples rubbish, because that is one thing I never understood. Why would you leave all the rubbish on these campsites when you maybe one day want to come back to that same spot? The same with fires! Why would you make a fire when there is a complete fireban in place? Why the hell would you? We've seen it many times mate! I'm the kind of person who approaches Aussies and tourists, even my English is very basic, when they do the wrong thing like lighting fires during firebans, or when they throw stuff all over the place, like cans or glass into the fire! Why are you doing this I did ask many, many times. Well you know, you stupid Swiss, we pay tax in this country. We can do it!!! That's why we don't pay NP fees as well, because we pay tax! Well...I just don't get it! Don't get me wrong, most Aussies we met are not like that, but the very few are destroing the nice spots for all of you! They closed down many places for that reason! We've cleaned many camp areas from all the crap that other people left behind. We wanted to do the right thing! I would rather not do that! I would rather be hiking through the bush than picking up other peoples rubbish, I really would! Which brings me to my last point. Apart from loving 4WDing we always did explore the country on foot as well. We love walking and hiking! I think that's when you get an idea what the land has to offer. All the plants, all the animals, all the amazing landscape...just great! Get out there and enjoy...doesn't matter how...but get out there! And yeah...respect the bush!!!! All the best from Switzerland
Very comprehensive and accurate Roland. A lot of Aussies just don't give a Fk, in both cities and travelling but there are a lot as with everywhere in the world really that do maintain the general rules of respect. Look up "Trip in a Van" on Utube, their latest vid with a special at the end re "Keeping the Bush and Beaches clean" Cheers Roland
@@hoffhomme7106 You're absolutely right. Majority of Aussies are doing the right thing. It's those very few that screw it up. TIAV...I watch those series. Stay save
My advice is to be grateful. We have the privilege to travel to some of the most amazing and beautiful places, most of us can afford the outdoor lifestyle etc. once we realise how privileged we are, caring for the environment we travel in, the people we meet becomes a lot easier.
I travelled around Australia for a year and the first thing I got rid of was the 80 kg of drawers which were carrying about 20 kg of gear I hardly used. A couple of plastic tubs are better value, and are taken out when not camping.
I saw Tim Bates did that recently. He just has a few tubs now. I've got a battery box and heavy duty plastic tub in the back with tools, recovery gear,compressor etc. Been mooting drawers b ut that's a lot of extra weight.
I bought 2 of those Tactix boxes on my first trip. My long plan was to get slid out draws. You’ve now got me thinking , I might just go back to the tubs instead
Always lend a hand to a crew in need. Stop. Ask them. Ask what their plan is. Can you help them with that? Will they let you? Have you seen it done before? Will they let you watch and learn? Always try to improve the knowledge of everyone on the trail that is willing to put out the effort to learn. One day, you might need the help. The crew you helped last month might just be the next ones up the trail next month as you're hunting for a proper anchor point for your winch. Also, do you know first aid? Why not? This can be a very dangerous hobby. Even if you are perfect and do everything in the safest way possible (ahem), you may come across someone who is nowhere as good as you, and got hurt. Sarcasm intended. Take a class in person and invest in the survival of everyone you love, and those you don't even know. (Dead serious intended)
Those cracks about the influencers! Spitting out the drink and the GPS not working, Ronny, I have not laughed so hard in a long time! 😀😂🤣 Outstanding! So Good!
I was on yacht preparing to leave port when the skipper said hey Sean check this out. I looked at the GPS and it had us on the runway at Coffs Harbour Airport ready for takeoff. It sorted itself once we were moving.
One of my coworkers was trying out a GPS speedometer on his bicycle a while back, and it said his top speed was over a thousand miles an hour. Average speed was somewhere around 600. We had a good laugh about that.
Regularly go camping in remote / off-grid locations, and sadly find a lot of rubbish left behind by others. I always take a heavy duty rubbish bag, and aim to leave the area better than when we arrived. Imagine if others did the same. I like your advice.
Love ya Ronny! One of your funniest videos so far! Excellent advice. I travelled around Australia in a stock Suzuki Sierra for 15 years without a problem. When off-roading/camping, the best advice I can give is to become accustomed to going to bed at sunset (make the most of the day instead). Secondly, cook using a simple Trangia (which can also be used for hiking/day walks). This will save on preparing a wood fire for dinner/breakfast and using unnecessary cooking equipment. Thirdly (a fact), if you drive at night and see a kangaroo up ahead on the road staring right at you, dim your lights or turn them off for a split second whilst you slow down. Vehicle lights confuse them, but they will see you and move out of your way after doing this. Finally, respect the environment and the tracks we are privileged to access, or they will be taken away from us.
You forgot the famous beer on tap esky Pat had installed on his ultimate 4x4. ..Yes mate over 50 years camping and prospecting Aus. Driving an Austin a 70. Holden fe. Falcon panelvan 1970, upgraded to first 4x4 1977 swbase patrol, heap of snot. Went back to Panel vans have crossed most Australia in 2wd including gunbarrel and bush tracks that were just jungle by today's standard. You can go almost anywhere in a 2wd with a bit more ground clearance and sensible driving. My greatest advice, "get out and walk don't put life's at risk by trying to match the tv shows." We don't see damage to vehicles behind scenes after they destroyed 200 series etc.
My advice is to get the basics and just go. Figure out what your missing and get it. But don’t wait till you have everything before you start exploring. Less shopping and more adventuring!
My best advice. Always have water, first aid kit and something to make a fire and never take risks trying to proove to others, know your limits. As a S&R and a firefighter, I can't stress this enough!
I always pack more food than i need on the idea of having it and not need it than not having it and want it, because there's always that one time where unforeseen circumstances force you to stay out longer than you originally planned for.
Great video Ronny, lots of really good info here. As a kid I was taught to always leave a site in better condition than you found it, a philosophy I think everyone should live by.
You're not wrong, was bush recently and the place was trashed. I removed all the rubbish and charcoal from fire pits(it looked untidy sitting around the firepit), had a young family near helping out too. They asked if they could post on social media and I just declined, I find more harm comes from posting about it. But being able to leave a place in a state that makes the next person coming through experience what I didn't, is more than enough for me at the end of the day. Well, that's the hope anyway.
We just bought a new 2023 Toyota Landcruiser Prado VX, it's our first 4x4. I went to ARB and asked them what I'd need to kit out the car to go 4 wheel driving and camping, they gave me a quote of $10,500 worth of gear. Needless to say I haven't bought anything yet.
Camp Hacks: Best one is carpet of artificial turf. Cheap, 20x30’ section. Folds, lightweight and shakes out sand, bugs, and dirt before packing away. No more camping on sand, fleas, and scopions! Good for awnings is adding bungees at the corners to takeup wind loading. These save the awning and extend its range into 30kts
Biggest advice I see people forget off road is safety, that means knowing your vehicle, and it's limits as well as yours. No expensive camping trip will ever be the same, no matter the fancy toys, if you push too hard to get somewhere and someone gets hurt or worse. Things are replaceable, people are not.
my one thing is actually don't beat the trail up. use the gears/lockers low range to preserve the trail for the people behind you. don't see how far you can get before locking your diffs.
Hi guys. Keeping it simple is definitely the best advice ever. I have a 2.8 hilux. Use to run full bar work. Big lift. 33” tyres and RTT. It was tuned and still slow,heavy and range was only like 580km on a tank. Now I reduced my lift and tyres. Removed the front bar because I am not running a winch. Tub cover with RTT down low. Much better to drive. A-lot more power and fuel efficient. Range went up to 750km on a tank. Love the little Luxi.
My best advice for Camping and 4x4ing... is be patient ! So many people out there for example get bogged and people just fly past on the wrong side of the road, almost causing an accident, or being patient setting up camp, see so many people getting upset about how to set up camp. Have a beer chill and help others out!
Great advice Ronny. One thing to look out for is Keeping Up With My Mates Syndrome. Just because you see someone buy the latest gadget doesn't mean you need to immediately buy the same or one spec higher. Especially if what you've got is serving it's purpose quite well.
Would agree with 99% of this Rhonny! But.... Working in the industry you talk about, not everyone in every store will give you "EPD" if you as a customer ask for help. Some of us are actually there because we give a shit, and want to help. Not make money. Don't paint us all with the same brush... The difference between corporate 4WD businesses and your local small business who is there to actually HELP you.
I think the problem with cheap awnings (Kings) is people do not peg them down correctly or in some cases not using pegs at all! I always said I will buy a proper awning once my kings breaks but 3 years in and over 100 times used it's still as good as the first day I bought it
Bet ya you won't see any bottle or cans in the bush anymore.Since WA introduced 10 cents recycling .Seen people in the bush picking up aluminum cans and bottles all the times.🤑🤑
Become familiar with your first aid kit. We always carry a comprehensive first aid as well as a snake bite kit with you. Our preferred brand is Survival because when under pressure it is easy to identify the various products and their uses. A good vid with a lot of valid information.
I would add training / practice of driving 4x4 and how to use recovery gear. I work in gold Exploration and i'm amazed at the number of fieldys and geos that have never changed a tyre let alone drove on dirt/gravel roads. Thanks for the handy tips. Been enjoying Bingeing on your channel😊
Fire extinguisher. My 12v system has caught fire 2 times now. One of my workers on Thursday just gone put 1m length of 65x5 flat bar in my tub canopy laying across the fridge cable that has extra split conduit on it. Lucky I had a water jerry. And the first time it happened I had a battery blow a hole and vent the day after a straddie trip. Both times It happened I didn’t have an extinguisher on board but just lucky. 2002 Hilux
The most important thing to me is what you mentioned lastly, keep the Australian bush beautiful and pristine. It’s not learned over time, it’s been my passion from the beginning
I've always been a big fan of adding lightness. Essential gear only, keep the vehicle light - you don't break stuff or get stuck. I've done 50,000km off-road around Australia and never had a major breakage; but I've helped fix many many overweight rich guy rigs (who were always clueless and beer bellied, and never said thank you). Also, a stock light vehicle working within design parameters is always safer in a road situation. Well done Ronny. Also, I'd rather spend money on diesel and miles than on flash gear.
The most vital advice I have is go with a good attitude and don't let people or circumstance take it from you! Problems are more easily solved when you're not angry about stuff, and people are more likely to help you out too!
I recall touring the Kimberly (probably before you were born Ronny) in a 1977 Falcon station wagon, and we met a young pommie couple, here in Oz on holidays travelling back from Wolf Creek meteorite crater in a 1963 Falcon sedan. They were bony arsed mutherless broke. They were on the side of the road dealing with a flat tyre. Obviously stopped to see if they needed help putting their spare wheel on? They didn’t have a spare wheel! 🙄😳😳🤪 Nope, this young buck had a boot full on new inner tubes, and a Jack & wheel brace, tyre levers, and a manual hand pump to re inflate the tyre. He had vulcanising patches and would patch a inner tube before he’d put a new on in. Every flat they got, he would do the whole remove wheel, strip the tyre and patch or replace the inner tube, put the tyre back on. All 4 tyres were basically bald. And they weren’t modern radials - they were old cross ply tyres that he bought second hand at a wreckers before heading off. Back in those days Wolf Creek was 4WD only - but they got there & back again in the old XP Falcon. So they definitely did their lap of Oz “on the cheap”. His missus would do a stint in various towns as a barmaid at the local pub, & he would do mechanical repairs on windmills and the like on cattle stations. When they had enough cash saved they would head off to the next town / adventure. Total minimalist approach - no air conditioning no fridge, they had a water bag on the front of their grill. The minimalist approach can work, and you can see a whole lot of this great country if your determined enough in some of the most rudimentary modes of transport. The whole 4WD / Off Road scene is “over supplied & over catered to” in my mind.
Experienced camper but new to 4x4. Advice is to get several opinions on track difficulty. There’s a lot of egos that like to downplay a tough track. On the flip side, there’s a lot of people who think if you’re not in a 79 with 5” lift and 35’s, that you can’t back out of your driveway. I’m still on highway tires (came on the new vehicle), but I’ve done some very steep, loose tracks. That said, I did them because I was told they’d be easy (they weren’t)!
I swear the whole time he was talking about influencers and presenters, I couldn't stop thinking about 24/7 4wd. it seemed like he was straight up copying one of their episodes hahaha.
They are the kings of product placement and pretty overhyped enthusiasm, let's be real. Ronny is someone I've watched for years and appreciate his integrity. Just a true enthusiast that never patronised, and gives excellent advice.
100% flog the best drawers ever and bla bla bla catch up with one of em on Fraser hello champ those draws are outback drawers not the best drawers ever!! Absolute wankers, the kings of pay for say!
Mate I was thinking the same thing. Watched a vid of theirs the other day and the product placement was so in your face it was ridiculous. Oh look, everyone's drinking the same shitty beer and the camera's lingering on it. Oh look, this fuel canister is in shot for no reason. Oh look, everyone's wearing the same brand clothes. It's like, calm down.
Hi Ronny great advise, i have been watching your show for quite a few years now. One thing i really like/respect is that you say things how they are and dont sugarcoat it. Keep up tge great work!!!
Very sensible and honest advice. Ironically, one of ads that popped up was promoting modifications, gadgets and accessories. The vehicle looked way over its GVM. Do your research and ask lots of questions. I loved the environmental message at the end about collecting all your rubbish including others. Many things that are put in the fire should be taken home and disposed of properly such as foil-lined products and plastics.
My simple advice would be don't be afraid to air down. It was my 3rd trip out today and I finally aired down. What a world of difference in ride comfort, and the extra grip was incredible on a difficult pedal-down sand dune climb.
19:45 While I have some camping experience, am new to 4WD'ing. My tip would be to watch all of this channel's videos before you buy anything! That way you can learn from other's genuine experiences and mistakes. I loved the one about which spares to take depending on which area of Australia you are travelling. I drew up a list on my requirements mainly based on this video. My advice is to consider the weight and space requirements of everything as weight, as discussed here, is your enemy. I bought ali drawers as weighed 13kg instead of 40kg for steel ones. Got itech lithium battery setup with integrated DC/DC/solar charger and heaps of anderson/ciggy lighter and USB plugs built in for weight saving and simplicity. Drawer fridge for simplicity and lightness (13kg). Also save on the weight of a fridge slide. I got a 2 stage bottle jack rather than a high-lift for its compact size and weight saving and an ali snap together shovel.that weighs 1kg and takes no space. This means I can enjoy the benefits of these in everyday use, not just camping and still have plenty of space to retain my vehicle's versatility and not gobble up all my GVM, something easy to do in an SUV.
Solid stuff! My father was "hard over" on littering. As a commercial fisherman he'd see the garbage out in the water, and on the shore every day. He made sure my brother and I learned to not disrespect the environment. If everybody just tosses out one thing, that over seven billion things tossed out.
Thats great your Dad looked after the ocean, BUT half the shit in the ocean killing fish and wildlife is commercial fishermans gear. Nets, ropes and longlines.
@@B.D1111 there are various types of commercial fishing, not all are longline, or drift nets. He was a lobster fisherman primarily, and taught us to be good stewards of the environment. Maybe shelve the self-righteous crap next time...
Ronny, I have 20+ years experience too and used to be happy doing mechanical work on my 4WD (Commonly replaced starters and alternators on FJ40, BJ73, 120 Prado), in recent years I've had an FJ Cruiser and now a 200 and I'm scared to touch it due to the level of tech. I'd love to see a vid on what you should or shouldn't touch on modern 4WDs. I don't regret the modern 4WD as I believe the reliability is far superior, but when it all goes bad in the bush... topics: -OBD reader options and how to make use of them -Sensors what to care about, what to leave until you reach a mechanic -Realistically which parts you'd attempt to replace/fix on a desert crossing Another vid would be how to deal with GVM issues. I have 3 kids (x2 teens), and doing a Simmo crossing without a trailer is actually impossible without a trailer. I don't want to take a trailer but I feel there is no other way. So many say "don't take a trailer", but it's just not that simple. Love to know your thoughts on that one.
Hey man after well over 40 years of camping my best advice is leave the environment as you would like to find it next time you rock up there. Too many fire pits left with half burnt packets and broken glass. As for camping kit like you say just buy what you need and do the research on those items to buy what works not the big brand names or the cheap copies, just the one that works and is right for your personal application. Great video and very valid as so many people are turning to getting out bush in this awesome country we live in.
Good to hear someone talking common sense. Most people seem to spend all their time obsessing over gear instead of enjoying the place you got/built the truck to go.
Thanks Ronny and 4WheelingAustralia your videos have been truly inspirational to get out there and enjoy our beautiful country but also to start filming our own little adventures
Talk about preserving tracks if you can next time. Too many times the knuckle heads out there purposely tear up tracks spinning tyres etc! Know when to give up and use your winch rather than destroying a track thus making it harder for other driver who don't have 35in tyres to be able to pass through. Thanks Ronny! You're our voice out in the community.
BarkWater. Absolute gold. I’m a newbie having just bought my first 4x4 and scared shitess about going out before I have a clue. Your videos are 110% perfect for me not just cos the message but your succinct, clear explanations of things. I will buy barkwater tho :-)
Male sure your plugs are high enough from the road when you tow. Our Territory sags a bit, and I had the plugs going a different way to reduce their slack. Wasn't enough, and we lost the Anderson plug cover on the way to camp. We stopped a few times on the way, checked everything else except that. Also agree on the rubbish. Took the kids away for the first time, told them to pick up every bit of rubbish you see while we pack up. Once we were all packed and hooked up, moved out of our area, stopped, told the kids now we get out to check nothing is left behind and double check for rubbish. Leave the camp better than it was when we got there
Once you have parked up and started cracking tins, put your keys away for the night. 4wding while drunk is a terrible idea. It happens so often with young crew.
@RonnyDahl you are the most fair, logical, sensible and a person with common sense regarding 4wheel driving and camping. Great Job Brother. All your videos are helpful and great guide. Stay like that instead of being an advertiser. 👍👍👍
Pick it up and KISS. Been camping for nearly 45 yrs. Started in a Gemini with tent gas cooker(companion and still have it and it still works fine) and esky. Now have hybrid ford Everest and Quantum camper but last weekend reverted back to 30 second tent and camp gear at Sundown in Qld preparation for double Simpson desert crossing in July.
Love your videos. Great advice. I'm a mum, 'TIP' I have a collection of whistles and mini torches on a string to go round the kids necks when they run off playing. Pref if poss some walkie talkies for them to play with. But the whistles and torches a must every time. In my glove box I have a glad bag with some tightly rolled up gaffa tape of a sort and lighter. They burn for ages.only need about 4or5 sufficient. I made a good purchase I thought for when I'm far out. Bob coopers survival tin and just to kill some time camping his book. Kit was about 70bux.worth it. I've used it a few times. Have a good one. X
Take your time and ask yourself “Do I need this?”. My first build was “get it it’s cool” sold that vehicle with stuff on there I never used. This build I’ve taken my time and researched everything. So much happier with it and quality parts every where and probably spent less than the last fiasco.
Im a rigger up north always have a giggle when i see d shackles on a forby so plan on doing a strsight pull do ya mate haha bow shackles are good can go at angles d arrnt designed for it
Hey Ronnie great advice and a top vid. The one point you made that most people miss is the counter weight effect of driver and passengers. Another one most people miss me included is which way the fuel tank runs? In a D40 Nissan it runs front to back down the passenger side not across the vehicle as most would think.
Definitely do the picking up of things. Even when kayaking i try to get at least 3 items out of the river/off the trail. It's a SOLID point paired with the 'tread lightly' philosophy.
I have one tip Your plastic camping tables. On one side of the table screw down a piece of either checker plate or a piece of stainless. It will eliminate the chance of ever melting the table
Hello from a Scott living in Germany. My advice would be to get to know your vehicle. I own two 4x4 on the opposite sides a 109 2.25 petrol hardtop Land Rover and a 2022 Ford Ranger. The one I would take anywhere is the 109. After getting it given to me I spent a lot of time, energy and money in getting ahead of the neglect it had suffered. As I know every nut and bolt "I know what to do if". I open the bonnet on the Ranger and pray when take it out. Not knowing what I could do when I would get stuck. But there again it's hard to find a place in western Europe to hide from people.... Thanks for the great personal information you have shared. Thought alot about the real needs... Well done for that. Regards Dexter
@@ryantilley-general.shenanigans I´m moving from Portugal, my wife and daughters are Australian, 2 weeks to the flight plus quarantine and then i want to start thinking about getting a UTE and explore that beautiful country
Great video Mate, my one is respect the people camping near you. Everyone wants the peace and quiet when you go out camping, so tone it down a bit when the night kicks on.
I love the rubbish gathering and advice on buying a little bit better quality so ya don’t need to throw stuff away. Rubbish gathering runs and beach cleaning with groups is an awesome way to socialise.
People travelling to remote and beautiful places then leaving their trash behind burns me no end , over Easter I was down near Windy Harbour in the South West of WA I regularly do a emu pick of the rubbish thrown away by travellers.This time was the worst ever including a microwave oven and the ever present broke camp chairs if we want to keep our access to wild places we need to respect them or future generations won't be able to.
I always leave an extra bag of warm cloths and food in the car for keeping people warm and fed. If you can hike for a week with a 15kg pack on your back you really don't need 300kg of gear in the back of the 4wd for a weekend.
Ha! Right!? I always like seeing peoples “bug out bag” load outs. They end up with a bag that weighs 80lbs that they can hardly lift. I can go on a 4 day backpacking trip at a weight of 25lbs, obviously water refills needed. And thats not even really trying hard to count ounces.
my one thing people need to pick up their trash instead of throwing it in the bush or lakes, I have seen campers getting fined for it and say you can't do that to me, and i laughed my arse off at them as i walked by because they had been doing it for 3 days without regards and the campers in the next site heard them laugh about it and reported them to the conservation officers and rightfully so. nice video Ronny
Take a short 1 day trip close to home or camp in your yard with any new gear to shake out any issues before you are out in the middle of now where, even better if it is raining or windy. Never, ever hike in new boots and always take more water and socks than you think you need.
my advice to new 4wders is to do it. stop thinking about that trip away or if you should do that with your car. just do it have fun, enjoy it and make positive memories
Brilliant, Ronny. Advertising and marketing is profiteering from dreams. So firstly, be realistic. Know your limits. Know what you want to be doing and where you're likely to be going to do that. Most of us aren't ever crossing the Simpson or driving the CSR. Purpose informs function. Function identifies vehicle type and any specific accessories you'll need.
one bit of advice: get out there!, do it simple with what you have. Make notes on what you feel your missing while your out there, next trip- same again, make notes. soon you will have it dialed in to YOUR needs. thumbs up Mr Ronny.
40 years of 4wding and camping and my advise is the same as yours. Keep it simple. Keep it as light as possible. Wherever you can, use equipment that has more than one roll, eg a recovery shovel that can dig a loo etc and don't be afraid to pick up other people's rubbish. It sets a good example to others.
Solid advice. I finally bought a 4runner and love how capable it is. Only other bit I would recommend (goes with picking up instead of shooting down) is friends. Find a 4x4 club or friends that’ll call you out on your own BS… gear you don’t need, money you don’t have, time you can’t afford - even better have one that can help fix your ride! The time preparing your ride is as important as the time getting out. You’ll appreciate your ride and your friends that much more when shit goes sideways - on or off the road.
Keeping it simple? I’ve had my driver’s license for 30 years Ronny, and I’ve driven Landcruisers all that time, from our farm 47 series farm Ute, to 75s when I worked on mines in the west in the 90s and since hzj & hdj utes and recently a vdj76, with maybe a million & a half kilometres in those vehicles Not once did I ever think ‘wow a gear stick extension, arm rest or bonnet struts would be awesome on this car’ We’ve lost ourselves in the un-necessary. So often I see foubies with winches, yet 80-20 road tyres on them & no suspension lift 😄 Swags have more poles than some of my tents. I could go on of course but I know your journey has got you to a similar point. Will always admire your honesty & candour
Great advice! Also, I rewatched your video on best recovery boards the other day & decided to go with the MaxTrax MK2. Thanks for putting that video together, very helpful for making my decision 🤙👍-Josh
My advice of 40 years of camping - Listen to Ronny! I was smiling and clapping my hands when you started talking about picking up rubbish and not moaning about it. Even my wife piped up and and said "very good -informative and sensible".
Thanks Benny, means a lot from someone with 40 yrs EXP
Make sleep comfort your number 1 priority.
My advice is unload your gear every 6 month or so and only put back in what you have used. Be surprised how much extra camping junk you never use that you haul, recovery/emergency gear excluded
Agree with this. Ive had my drawer system for about 8 months not and am due for its 2nd clean out. A bag of fishing tackle thats only been used once in that time will have to go I think as well as some other bits.
Definitely. Cleaning mechanical components every so-often is a good practice, too.
This is so damn true, I did that about a year ago on my packing video and I found sooo much stuff that I never used and stuff I had lost too
I always try to do this, besides some recovery gear as id rather carry one extra strap then have to get closer for a recovery and make things worse
This counts for your home as well. I always joke that anything still in a box a year after you move house, you don't really need.
I went to a 4x4 shop and asked about lift kits. The guy behind the counter gave me amazing advice. He said my stock TJ is probably already more capable than my driving skill. He advised I don't spend money modify my vehicle until I know what size tires I want and am ready to spend a chunk of money to "do it rite". Pointed me to adding a winch and jerry can carrier before a lift kit and to get lockers before a light bar.
That’s a good shop
I live in Baja and alot of americans and mexicans travel around Baja and most of them are nice off road, they will help you out, greet you, and respect your space. So be nice to people, lend a hand, take care of nature, thats why we are there.
Number 1 camping item: ‘Master camping list’.
Make a list on your device of everything you and your family need for a trip. Update it every time you think of something (or every time you forget something). You’ll never forget anything again.
Best advice you gave unfortunately is picking up others trash. It’s a huge problem and if we all pick up a little it sure will help
It's funny, if we all pick up a little trash occasionally it really makes a big difference. I don't understand how people can litter the very bush they work so hard to visit.
here here, it's pretty ,simple if you could fit it in to get there. then it's gotta fit to take it back out. don't leave it for the rest of us to clean up your shit.
Always tell people where you are going and your rough return time
Don’t want to end up as a CanAm Missing Project person...
And tell them who to contact to begin a search!
I share my itinerary and live location on WhatsApp with my relatives. It works when I have mobile phone reception. Better than nothing
For sure. Same rule for the boat
Hi from Switzerland! My advice would be...get the best out off what you've got. To me it seems that lots of people spend so much time and money to set up their car and completely forget why they are out there. Enjoy and soack in the beauty of the country! Don't spend your time in workshops and 4WD shops...get out there with whatever you can afford! We've travelled around Europe for years just with backpacks and tent, slept on the ground, but it was just perfect back then! My misses and I have been lucky enough to travel a few times in Australia. We usually spent 6 month there. Our first two trips have been along the east coast. We hitchhiked all the time and we had the time of our life. And hell...we walked a lot, far out! That was in 1989 and 1991 when Ivan Milat was very active. It was scary, but it was also interesting, because lots of Aussies did pick us up as they considered that it was too bloody dangerous to hitchhike. Even today we have lots of friends that we met back then, some of them I would even consider as family. We then did get an old Hilux for our third trip, and again we've had the time of our life! Sleeping in tents all the time. We kept it very very simple, but it was just great. No fridge, no modification, no nothing, but it just worked for us! We got the best out of it! We then bought an old Troopy. A hard top camper and that was just amazing. We had a fridge, yeah! I was finally able to crack a cold one from time to time. Pure luxury! I loved it! We kept that Troopy for more than ten years and traveled around the country, got down to Tassie, slept in the high country in snow, or explored WA and the NT in the summer heat. Uff...Spent part of the wet in Far north Queensland and so on. We just love Australia! It has so much to offer! Anyway I would love to see more people like you who pick up other peoples rubbish, because that is one thing I never understood. Why would you leave all the rubbish on these campsites when you maybe one day want to come back to that same spot? The same with fires! Why would you make a fire when there is a complete fireban in place? Why the hell would you? We've seen it many times mate! I'm the kind of person who approaches Aussies and tourists, even my English is very basic, when they do the wrong thing like lighting fires during firebans, or when they throw stuff all over the place, like cans or glass into the fire! Why are you doing this I did ask many, many times. Well you know, you stupid Swiss, we pay tax in this country. We can do it!!! That's why we don't pay NP fees as well, because we pay tax! Well...I just don't get it!
Don't get me wrong, most Aussies we met are not like that, but the very few are destroing the nice spots for all of you! They closed down many places for that reason! We've cleaned many camp areas from all the crap that other people left behind. We wanted to do the right thing! I would rather not do that! I would rather be hiking through the bush than picking up other peoples rubbish, I really would! Which brings me to my last point. Apart from loving 4WDing we always did explore the country on foot as well. We love walking and hiking! I think that's when you get an idea what the land has to offer. All the plants, all the animals, all the amazing landscape...just great! Get out there and enjoy...doesn't matter how...but get out there! And yeah...respect the bush!!!! All the best from Switzerland
Well written, good to have good people travelling here
Very comprehensive and accurate Roland. A lot of Aussies just don't give a Fk, in both cities and travelling but there are a lot as with everywhere in the world really that do maintain the general rules of respect. Look up "Trip in a Van" on Utube, their latest vid with a special at the end re "Keeping the Bush and Beaches clean" Cheers Roland
@@hoffhomme7106 You're absolutely right. Majority of Aussies are doing the right thing. It's those very few that screw it up. TIAV...I watch those series. Stay save
THANK YOU Roland.
VERY MUCH APPRECIATED your comments.
ALL the Very Best.
( OZ )
There was an anti-littering campaign in the US, in the '70s. Pretty effective.
My advice is to be grateful. We have the privilege to travel to some of the most amazing and beautiful places, most of us can afford the outdoor lifestyle etc.
once we realise how privileged we are, caring for the environment we travel in, the people we meet becomes a lot easier.
I travelled around Australia for a year and the first thing I got rid of was the 80 kg of drawers which were carrying about 20 kg of gear I hardly used. A couple of plastic tubs are better value, and are taken out when not camping.
I saw Tim Bates did that recently. He just has a few tubs now. I've got a battery box and heavy duty plastic tub in the back with tools, recovery gear,compressor etc. Been mooting drawers b ut that's a lot of extra weight.
@@richardlangly4635 have a recommendation for a heavy duty plastic tub?
@@jayburgess4962 The Tactix tubs from Bunnings are good, I have three of them: www.bunnings.com.au/tactix-45l-heavy-duty-storage-box_p2583690
And a whole lot lighter!!
I bought 2 of those Tactix boxes on my first trip. My long plan was to get slid out draws. You’ve now got me thinking , I might just go back to the tubs instead
My advice would be to watch you speed on the trails! We all go too fast sometimes and almost crash, watch yer speed
Always lend a hand to a crew in need. Stop. Ask them. Ask what their plan is. Can you help them with that? Will they let you? Have you seen it done before? Will they let you watch and learn? Always try to improve the knowledge of everyone on the trail that is willing to put out the effort to learn.
One day, you might need the help. The crew you helped last month might just be the next ones up the trail next month as you're hunting for a proper anchor point for your winch.
Also, do you know first aid? Why not? This can be a very dangerous hobby. Even if you are perfect and do everything in the safest way possible (ahem), you may come across someone who is nowhere as good as you, and got hurt. Sarcasm intended. Take a class in person and invest in the survival of everyone you love, and those you don't even know. (Dead serious intended)
Those cracks about the influencers! Spitting out the drink and the GPS not working, Ronny, I have not laughed so hard in a long time! 😀😂🤣 Outstanding! So Good!
I was on yacht preparing to leave port when the skipper said hey Sean check this out. I looked at the GPS and it had us on the runway at Coffs Harbour Airport ready for takeoff. It sorted itself once we were moving.
One of my coworkers was trying out a GPS speedometer on his bicycle a while back, and it said his top speed was over a thousand miles an hour. Average speed was somewhere around 600. We had a good laugh about that.
@@AlexandarHullRichter That's one hell of a bicycle, I bet his legs were sore for a day or two.
Regularly go camping in remote / off-grid locations, and sadly find a lot of rubbish left behind by others. I always take a heavy duty rubbish bag, and aim to leave the area better than when we arrived. Imagine if others did the same. I like your advice.
Love ya Ronny! One of your funniest videos so far! Excellent advice. I travelled around Australia in a stock Suzuki Sierra for 15 years without a problem. When off-roading/camping, the best advice I can give is to become accustomed to going to bed at sunset (make the most of the day instead). Secondly, cook using a simple Trangia (which can also be used for hiking/day walks). This will save on preparing a wood fire for dinner/breakfast and using unnecessary cooking equipment. Thirdly (a fact), if you drive at night and see a kangaroo up ahead on the road staring right at you, dim your lights or turn them off for a split second whilst you slow down. Vehicle lights confuse them, but they will see you and move out of your way after doing this. Finally, respect the environment and the tracks we are privileged to access, or they will be taken away from us.
You forgot the famous beer on tap esky Pat had installed on his ultimate 4x4. ..Yes mate over 50 years camping and prospecting Aus. Driving an Austin a 70. Holden fe. Falcon panelvan 1970, upgraded to first 4x4 1977 swbase patrol, heap of snot. Went back to Panel vans have crossed most Australia in 2wd including gunbarrel and bush tracks that were just jungle by today's standard. You can go almost anywhere in a 2wd with a bit more ground clearance and sensible driving. My greatest advice, "get out and walk don't put life's at risk by trying to match the tv shows." We don't see damage to vehicles behind scenes after they destroyed 200 series etc.
As the great Paul Marsh always says "Take less gear and more knowledge".
YES ! However , conversely , greater knowledge will inevitably reduce the Gear . Rationalisation .
Always leave your campsite better than you found it, and make sure your campfire is always out before you leave,
My advice is to get the basics and just go. Figure out what your missing and get it. But don’t wait till you have everything before you start exploring. Less shopping and more adventuring!
My best advice. Always have water, first aid kit and something to make a fire and never take risks trying to proove to others, know your limits. As a S&R and a firefighter, I can't stress this enough!
I always pack more food than i need on the idea of having it and not need it than not having it and want it, because there's always that one time where unforeseen circumstances force you to stay out longer than you originally planned for.
Extra food in case you need it.
Nothing wrong with extra food & water. As you said, unforeseen circumstances do occur.
Go camping in bad weather and base your setup around enjoying yourself in that environment.
Great video Ronny, lots of really good info here.
As a kid I was taught to always leave a site in better condition than you found it, a philosophy I think everyone should live by.
You're not wrong, was bush recently and the place was trashed. I removed all the rubbish and charcoal from fire pits(it looked untidy sitting around the firepit), had a young family near helping out too. They asked if they could post on social media and I just declined, I find more harm comes from posting about it. But being able to leave a place in a state that makes the next person coming through experience what I didn't, is more than enough for me at the end of the day. Well, that's the hope anyway.
We just bought a new 2023 Toyota Landcruiser Prado VX, it's our first 4x4. I went to ARB and asked them what I'd need to kit out the car to go 4 wheel driving and camping, they gave me a quote of $10,500 worth of gear. Needless to say I haven't bought anything yet.
Camp Hacks: Best one is carpet of artificial turf. Cheap, 20x30’ section. Folds, lightweight and shakes out sand, bugs, and dirt before packing away. No more camping on sand, fleas, and scopions! Good for awnings is adding bungees at the corners to takeup wind loading. These save the awning and extend its range into 30kts
Biggest advice I see people forget off road is safety, that means knowing your vehicle, and it's limits as well as yours. No expensive camping trip will ever be the same, no matter the fancy toys, if you push too hard to get somewhere and someone gets hurt or worse. Things are replaceable, people are not.
Excellent. My advice is - less is more.
What's wrong with a solar torch? It's the best bit of kit I have. Chuck it next to your tent during the day and it's ready for the night.
my one thing is actually don't beat the trail up. use the gears/lockers low range to preserve the trail for the people behind you. don't see how far you can get before locking your diffs.
Hi guys. Keeping it simple is definitely the best advice ever. I have a 2.8 hilux. Use to run full bar work. Big lift. 33” tyres and RTT. It was tuned and still slow,heavy and range was only like 580km on a tank.
Now I reduced my lift and tyres. Removed the front bar because I am not running a winch. Tub cover with RTT down low. Much better to drive. A-lot more power and fuel efficient. Range went up to 750km on a tank. Love the little Luxi.
14:26
nice to see you spoke about yourself for close to 1 minute and 30 seconds
My best advice for Camping and 4x4ing... is be patient ! So many people out there for example get bogged and people just fly past on the wrong side of the road, almost causing an accident, or being patient setting up camp, see so many people getting upset about how to set up camp. Have a beer chill and help others out!
Great advice Ronny. One thing to look out for is Keeping Up With My Mates Syndrome. Just because you see someone buy the latest gadget doesn't mean you need to immediately buy the same or one spec higher. Especially if what you've got is serving it's purpose quite well.
I lucked out in that regard. Each of us has our own specialties, so no competition with all the gear.
Would agree with 99% of this Rhonny! But.... Working in the industry you talk about, not everyone in every store will give you "EPD" if you as a customer ask for help. Some of us are actually there because we give a shit, and want to help. Not make money. Don't paint us all with the same brush... The difference between corporate 4WD businesses and your local small business who is there to actually HELP you.
I think the problem with cheap awnings (Kings) is people do not peg them down correctly or in some cases not using pegs at all! I always said I will buy a proper awning once my kings breaks but 3 years in and over 100 times used it's still as good as the first day I bought it
Bet ya you won't see any bottle or cans in the bush anymore.Since WA introduced 10 cents recycling .Seen people in the bush picking up aluminum cans and bottles all the times.🤑🤑
Just because Ronny has it, doesn't mean you need it!
Start with a NEED attitude not a WANT.
Listen to Ronny, that’s my advice!
Become familiar with your first aid kit. We always carry a comprehensive first aid as well as a snake bite kit with you. Our preferred brand is Survival because when under pressure it is easy to identify the various products and their uses.
A good vid with a lot of valid information.
I would add training / practice of driving 4x4 and how to use recovery gear. I work in gold Exploration and i'm amazed at the number of fieldys and geos that have never changed a tyre let alone drove on dirt/gravel roads. Thanks for the handy tips. Been enjoying Bingeing on your channel😊
Fire extinguisher. My 12v system has caught fire 2 times now. One of my workers on Thursday just gone put 1m length of 65x5 flat bar in my tub canopy laying across the fridge cable that has extra split conduit on it. Lucky I had a water jerry. And the first time it happened I had a battery blow a hole and vent the day after a straddie trip. Both times It happened I didn’t have an extinguisher on board but just lucky. 2002 Hilux
Sounds like a few well placed fuses could help. Better to blow a fuse then burn the buggy. But I agree about the fire extinguisher!!
The most important thing to me is what you mentioned lastly, keep the Australian bush beautiful and pristine. It’s not learned over time, it’s been my passion from the beginning
I've always been a big fan of adding lightness. Essential gear only, keep the vehicle light - you don't break stuff or get stuck. I've done 50,000km off-road around Australia and never had a major breakage; but I've helped fix many many overweight rich guy rigs (who were always clueless and beer bellied, and never said thank you). Also, a stock light vehicle working within design parameters is always safer in a road situation. Well done Ronny. Also, I'd rather spend money on diesel and miles than on flash gear.
Glad to see the KISS principle used I have been banging on about this for years. Keep it light where you can and just go out there.
The most vital advice I have is go with a good attitude and don't let people or circumstance take it from you! Problems are more easily solved when you're not angry about stuff, and people are more likely to help you out too!
I recall touring the Kimberly (probably before you were born Ronny) in a 1977 Falcon station wagon, and we met a young pommie couple, here in Oz on holidays travelling back from Wolf Creek meteorite crater in a 1963 Falcon sedan.
They were bony arsed mutherless broke.
They were on the side of the road dealing with a flat tyre.
Obviously stopped to see if they needed help putting their spare wheel on?
They didn’t have a spare wheel! 🙄😳😳🤪
Nope, this young buck had a boot full on new inner tubes, and a Jack & wheel brace, tyre levers, and a manual hand pump to re inflate the tyre.
He had vulcanising patches and would patch a inner tube before he’d put a new on in.
Every flat they got, he would do the whole remove wheel, strip the tyre and patch or replace the inner tube, put the tyre back on.
All 4 tyres were basically bald.
And they weren’t modern radials - they were old cross ply tyres that he bought second hand at a wreckers before heading off.
Back in those days Wolf Creek was 4WD only - but they got there & back again in the old XP Falcon.
So they definitely did their lap of Oz “on the cheap”. His missus would do a stint in various towns as a barmaid at the local pub, & he would do mechanical repairs on windmills and the like on cattle stations.
When they had enough cash saved they would head off to the next town / adventure.
Total minimalist approach - no air conditioning no fridge, they had a water bag on the front of their grill.
The minimalist approach can work, and you can see a whole lot of this great country if your determined enough in some of the most rudimentary modes of transport.
The whole 4WD / Off Road scene is “over supplied & over catered to” in my mind.
Experienced camper but new to 4x4. Advice is to get several opinions on track difficulty. There’s a lot of egos that like to downplay a tough track. On the flip side, there’s a lot of people who think if you’re not in a 79 with 5” lift and 35’s, that you can’t back out of your driveway. I’m still on highway tires (came on the new vehicle), but I’ve done some very steep, loose tracks. That said, I did them because I was told they’d be easy (they weren’t)!
I swear the whole time he was talking about influencers and presenters, I couldn't stop thinking about 24/7 4wd. it seemed like he was straight up copying one of their episodes hahaha.
Me too even if I do like some of theirs episodes
They are the kings of product placement and pretty overhyped enthusiasm, let's be real. Ronny is someone I've watched for years and appreciate his integrity. Just a true enthusiast that never patronised, and gives excellent advice.
100% flog the best drawers ever and bla bla bla catch up with one of em on Fraser hello champ those draws are outback drawers not the best drawers ever!! Absolute wankers, the kings of pay for say!
Mate I was thinking the same thing. Watched a vid of theirs the other day and the product placement was so in your face it was ridiculous. Oh look, everyone's drinking the same shitty beer and the camera's lingering on it. Oh look, this fuel canister is in shot for no reason. Oh look, everyone's wearing the same brand clothes. It's like, calm down.
It's crazy AND they get over 500k views most vids
Hi Ronny great advise, i have been watching your show for quite a few years now. One thing i really like/respect is that you say things how they are and dont sugarcoat it. Keep up tge great work!!!
Love that one of the adverts was the ARB one where the bloke walks in and asks for what he needs! PML!!!
Very sensible and honest advice.
Ironically, one of ads that popped up was promoting modifications, gadgets and accessories. The vehicle looked way over its GVM.
Do your research and ask lots of questions.
I loved the environmental message at the end about collecting all your rubbish including others. Many things that are put in the fire should be taken home and disposed of properly such as foil-lined products and plastics.
My simple advice would be don't be afraid to air down. It was my 3rd trip out today and I finally aired down. What a world of difference in ride comfort, and the extra grip was incredible on a difficult pedal-down sand dune climb.
19:45 While I have some camping experience, am new to 4WD'ing. My tip would be to watch all of this channel's videos before you buy anything! That way you can learn from other's genuine experiences and mistakes. I loved the one about which spares to take depending on which area of Australia you are travelling. I drew up a list on my requirements mainly based on this video. My advice is to consider the weight and space requirements of everything as weight, as discussed here, is your enemy. I bought ali drawers as weighed 13kg instead of 40kg for steel ones. Got itech lithium battery setup with integrated DC/DC/solar charger and heaps of anderson/ciggy lighter and USB plugs built in for weight saving and simplicity. Drawer fridge for simplicity and lightness (13kg). Also save on the weight of a fridge slide. I got a 2 stage bottle jack rather than a high-lift for its compact size and weight saving and an ali snap together shovel.that weighs 1kg and takes no space. This means I can enjoy the benefits of these in everyday use, not just camping and still have plenty of space to retain my vehicle's versatility and not gobble up all my GVM, something easy to do in an SUV.
Solid stuff!
My father was "hard over" on littering. As a commercial fisherman he'd see the garbage out in the water, and on the shore every day. He made sure my brother and I learned to not disrespect the environment. If everybody just tosses out one thing, that over seven billion things tossed out.
Thats great your Dad looked after the ocean, BUT half the shit in the ocean killing fish and wildlife is commercial fishermans gear. Nets, ropes and longlines.
@@B.D1111 there are various types of commercial fishing, not all are longline, or drift nets. He was a lobster fisherman primarily, and taught us to be good stewards of the environment. Maybe shelve the self-righteous crap next time...
Greetings from Canada 🍁 this is one of your top 5 videos that you have came out with bud!!! Great video 😊
I've translated by backpacking gear into camping. A lot of shit I do add, but no need to over do it. Don't bring the kitchen sink as they say.
Just making lightness, compactness and quickness metrics to judge your own setup and gear you buy will send you in the right direction.
Ronny, I have 20+ years experience too and used to be happy doing mechanical work on my 4WD (Commonly replaced starters and alternators on FJ40, BJ73, 120 Prado), in recent years I've had an FJ Cruiser and now a 200 and I'm scared to touch it due to the level of tech. I'd love to see a vid on what you should or shouldn't touch on modern 4WDs. I don't regret the modern 4WD as I believe the reliability is far superior, but when it all goes bad in the bush...
topics:
-OBD reader options and how to make use of them
-Sensors what to care about, what to leave until you reach a mechanic
-Realistically which parts you'd attempt to replace/fix on a desert crossing
Another vid would be how to deal with GVM issues. I have 3 kids (x2 teens), and doing a Simmo crossing without a trailer is actually impossible without a trailer. I don't want to take a trailer but I feel there is no other way. So many say "don't take a trailer", but it's just not that simple. Love to know your thoughts on that one.
Hey man after well over 40 years of camping my best advice is leave the environment as you would like to find it next time you rock up there. Too many fire pits left with half burnt packets and broken glass. As for camping kit like you say just buy what you need and do the research on those items to buy what works not the big brand names or the cheap copies, just the one that works and is right for your personal application. Great video and very valid as so many people are turning to getting out bush in this awesome country we live in.
Good to hear someone talking common sense. Most people seem to spend all their time obsessing over gear instead of enjoying the place you got/built the truck to go.
Thanks Ronny and 4WheelingAustralia your videos have been truly inspirational to get out there and enjoy our beautiful country but also to start filming our own little adventures
Talk about preserving tracks if you can next time. Too many times the knuckle heads out there purposely tear up tracks spinning tyres etc! Know when to give up and use your winch rather than destroying a track thus making it harder for other driver who don't have 35in tyres to be able to pass through. Thanks Ronny! You're our voice out in the community.
BarkWater. Absolute gold.
I’m a newbie having just bought my first 4x4 and scared shitess about going out before I have a clue. Your videos are 110% perfect for me not just cos the message but your succinct, clear explanations of things. I will buy barkwater tho :-)
Male sure your plugs are high enough from the road when you tow. Our Territory sags a bit, and I had the plugs going a different way to reduce their slack. Wasn't enough, and we lost the Anderson plug cover on the way to camp. We stopped a few times on the way, checked everything else except that.
Also agree on the rubbish. Took the kids away for the first time, told them to pick up every bit of rubbish you see while we pack up. Once we were all packed and hooked up, moved out of our area, stopped, told the kids now we get out to check nothing is left behind and double check for rubbish. Leave the camp better than it was when we got there
Best episode of the year IMO. I wish more influencers preached "you don't need all that", would've saved this sucker a BUNCH of $$!
Good sleeping bad is worth it’s weight in gold. Get one with a solid rating & if possible zip vents. Ronny is the man, watch all his videos.
Once you have parked up and started cracking tins, put your keys away for the night. 4wding while drunk is a terrible idea. It happens so often with young crew.
"Hold my beer" strategy ;)
@RonnyDahl you are the most fair, logical, sensible and a person with common sense regarding 4wheel driving and camping. Great Job Brother.
All your videos are helpful and great guide. Stay like that instead of being an advertiser. 👍👍👍
Leave it better than you found it. (I know, it’s an old one)
Respect the land and those that came before you. Leave the place in equal or better condition than when you found it.
Howdy from the US ! Awesome video as always Ronny, solid information, and comedic gold dude !
Pick it up and KISS. Been camping for nearly 45 yrs. Started in a Gemini with tent gas cooker(companion and still have it and it still works fine) and esky. Now have hybrid ford Everest and Quantum camper but last weekend reverted back to 30 second tent and camp gear at Sundown in Qld preparation for double Simpson desert crossing in July.
Love your videos. Great advice.
I'm a mum, 'TIP' I have a collection of whistles and mini torches on a string to go round the kids necks when they run off playing. Pref if poss some walkie talkies for them to play with. But the whistles and torches a must every time.
In my glove box I have a glad bag with some tightly rolled up gaffa tape of a sort and lighter. They burn for ages.only need about 4or5 sufficient.
I made a good purchase I thought for when I'm far out. Bob coopers survival tin and just to kill some time camping his book. Kit was about 70bux.worth it. I've used it a few times. Have a good one. X
Take your time and ask yourself “Do I need this?”. My first build was “get it it’s cool” sold that vehicle with stuff on there I never used. This build I’ve taken my time and researched everything. So much happier with it and quality parts every where and probably spent less than the last fiasco.
Im a rigger up north always have a giggle when i see d shackles on a forby so plan on doing a strsight pull do ya mate haha bow shackles are good can go at angles d arrnt designed for it
Hey Ronnie great advice and a top vid. The one point you made that most people miss is the counter weight effect of driver and passengers. Another one most people miss me included is which way the fuel tank runs? In a D40 Nissan it runs front to back down the passenger side not across the vehicle as most would think.
Definitely do the picking up of things. Even when kayaking i try to get at least 3 items out of the river/off the trail. It's a SOLID point paired with the 'tread lightly' philosophy.
I have one tip
Your plastic camping tables. On one side of the table screw down a piece of either checker plate or a piece of stainless. It will eliminate the chance of ever melting the table
I just resubscribed.... you lost me when the tech and gadgets got out of hand. Now you have a channel that's worth watching.
Hello from a Scott living in Germany. My advice would be to get to know your vehicle. I own two 4x4 on the opposite sides a 109 2.25 petrol hardtop Land Rover and a 2022 Ford Ranger. The one I would take anywhere is the 109. After getting it given to me I spent a lot of time, energy and money in getting ahead of the neglect it had suffered. As I know every nut and bolt "I know what to do if". I open the bonnet on the Ranger and pray when take it out. Not knowing what I could do when I would get stuck. But there again it's hard to find a place in western Europe to hide from people....
Thanks for the great personal information you have shared.
Thought alot about the real needs...
Well done for that.
Regards Dexter
This one seems basic, but freeze waters and use them instead of ice for coolers. When they melt, you get cold water!
Never freeze fizzy drinks, cans or bottles.
Absolutely, I do this every time I go camping.
I do that too. 👍🏻
Im moving to Australia next month, you are great help to prepare my 4x4 trips around the country, thank you, great contend
Welcome to Australia, where are you moving from?
@@ryantilley-general.shenanigans I´m moving from Portugal, my wife and daughters are Australian, 2 weeks to the flight plus quarantine and then i want to start thinking about getting a UTE and explore that beautiful country
Great video Mate, my one is respect the people camping near you. Everyone wants the peace and quiet when you go out camping, so tone it down a bit when the night kicks on.
This is by far the funniest Ronny Dahl video i've seen. Awesome work mate! Loving it!
I couldn’t agree more. I’ve been full circle on this same journey, less is more.
I love the rubbish gathering and advice on buying a little bit better quality so ya don’t need to throw stuff away. Rubbish gathering runs and beach cleaning with groups is an awesome way to socialise.
People travelling to remote and beautiful places then leaving their trash behind burns me no end , over Easter I was down near Windy Harbour in the South West of WA I regularly do a emu pick of the rubbish thrown away by travellers.This time was the worst ever including a microwave oven and the ever present broke camp chairs if we want to keep our access to wild places we need to respect them or future generations won't be able to.
Exactly!!
I always leave an extra bag of warm cloths and food in the car for keeping people warm and fed.
If you can hike for a week with a 15kg pack on your back you really don't need 300kg of gear in the back of the 4wd for a weekend.
Ha! Right!? I always like seeing peoples “bug out bag” load outs. They end up with a bag that weighs 80lbs that they can hardly lift. I can go on a 4 day backpacking trip at a weight of 25lbs, obviously water refills needed. And thats not even really trying hard to count ounces.
my one thing people need to pick up their trash instead of throwing it in the bush or lakes, I have seen campers getting fined for it and say you can't do that to me, and i laughed my arse off at them as i walked by because they had been doing it for 3 days without regards and the campers in the next site heard them laugh about it and reported them to the conservation officers and rightfully so. nice video Ronny
Greetings from Bolivia!! 😂😂 Whenever you're really here, I will be glad to take you 4 wheeling!!
Take a short 1 day trip close to home or camp in your yard with any new gear to shake out any issues before you are out in the middle of now where, even better if it is raining or windy. Never, ever hike in new boots and always take more water and socks than you think you need.
Top, thanks from Germany. Its so cool Goldwaschen mit Tom
my advice to new 4wders is to do it. stop thinking about that trip away or if you should do that with your car. just do it have fun, enjoy it and make positive memories
Brilliant, Ronny.
Advertising and marketing is profiteering from dreams. So firstly, be realistic. Know your limits. Know what you want to be doing and where you're likely to be going to do that. Most of us aren't ever crossing the Simpson or driving the CSR. Purpose informs function. Function identifies vehicle type and any specific accessories you'll need.
one bit of advice: get out there!, do it simple with what you have. Make notes on what you feel your missing while your out there, next trip- same again, make notes. soon you will have it dialed in to YOUR needs. thumbs up Mr Ronny.
40 years of 4wding and camping and my advise is the same as yours. Keep it simple. Keep it as light as possible. Wherever you can, use equipment that has more than one roll, eg a recovery shovel that can dig a loo etc and don't be afraid to pick up other people's rubbish. It sets a good example to others.
Solid advice. I finally bought a 4runner and love how capable it is. Only other bit I would recommend (goes with picking up instead of shooting down) is friends. Find a 4x4 club or friends that’ll call you out on your own BS… gear you don’t need, money you don’t have, time you can’t afford - even better have one that can help fix your ride! The time preparing your ride is as important as the time getting out. You’ll appreciate your ride and your friends that much more when shit goes sideways - on or off the road.
Keeping it simple? I’ve had my driver’s license for 30 years Ronny, and I’ve driven Landcruisers all that time, from our farm 47 series farm Ute, to 75s when I worked on mines in the west in the 90s and since hzj & hdj utes and recently a vdj76, with maybe a million & a half kilometres in those vehicles
Not once did I ever think ‘wow a gear stick extension, arm rest or bonnet struts would be awesome on this car’ We’ve lost ourselves in the un-necessary. So often I see foubies with winches, yet 80-20 road tyres on them & no suspension lift 😄 Swags have more poles than some of my tents. I could go on of course but I know your journey has got you to a similar point. Will always admire your honesty & candour
You’re never to old to learn.
You’re never too old to learn.
Thanks Jeff!!!
Great advice! Also, I rewatched your video on best recovery boards the other day & decided to go with the MaxTrax MK2. Thanks for putting that video together, very helpful for making my decision 🤙👍-Josh