As Trail Leader, you should plan for issues and problems. Some plans are generic since you cannot predict the exact situation. You apply your skills, tools, and techniques to the problem. A first aid kit is a good example. For some issues, you can speculate what might happen and develop a specific contingency plan. One that falls into that category is the need to leave your vehicle behind.
Deciding When to Abandon Your Vehicle
One of the toughest decisions a four-wheeler has to make is whether to abandon a vehicle. Fortunately, abandonment is a rare occurrence in the 4WD world. Even so, you should know what steps to take in case you as Trail Leader are faced with the issue.
Key Considerations Before Leaving Your Vehicle
If you must leave your vehicle after exhausting all other alternatives—including towing it—consider these issues:
- Generally what kinds of items to take and what to leave.
- Firearms, electronics, and other valuables should be removed. While theft on the trails is rare, it can happen.
- How to secure the vehicle and the contents left behind.
- Decide what to do with a trailer, if one exists. Can another vehicle tow that, or does it stay behind as well?
- Plan to recover it later.
- Mark your position on the GPS, and write this down. Do not try to rely on memory. Landmarks and terrain appear different from various positions and angles.
- How long before your return. Leave a note if appropriate.
- Can it be moved so it is not blocking the trail?
Planned Abandonment vs. Emergency Abandonment
We are not talking about an emergency abandonment of the vehicle because your life is in danger (vehicle on fire). This is a planned abandonment when you have other transportation: Your vehicle is disabled, and you have decided to press on for the benefit of your guests.
Managing Gear and Essentials When Leaving a Vehicle
Most of us have many small items (and backup items) tucked here and there throughout the vehicle wherever they will fit. Sometimes items are spread out over several bags and containers. These are bags that are always with you. But what happens when you leave the vehicle behind? You have to leave some gear behind too. There is likely not enough room in the support vehicle(s) providing you with transportation.
In the rush to clear out the disabled vehicle, it’s easy to forget the everyday stuff: batteries (especially if in the glove compartment or other hidden spot), sunglasses, hat, boots, and such.
The probability is that you will forget to take all the essentials. A simple example is replacement AA batteries. You remember to take your GPS, camera, and radios but forget to pull the 12v charger out of the socket. You have three or four places with backup AA batteries (the center console, in a spares case in the back, in the radio bag, etc.). None of these batteries made the transition. You decided to take only one bag, and that one does not have batteries in it and didn’t think to look in the center console. BTW you forgot your sunglasses too.
The Importance of a Go Bag
The Go Bag you carry (you have one, right?) makes a very nice container and starting point to gather all the additional items you need.
Assess the supplies and tools the other vehicles have. You might feel it is not necessary to bring your recovery gear but might feel uncomfortable relying on a first aid kit you are not familiar with.
Using a Checklist for Vehicle Abandonment Preparation
If you ever have to leave your rig on the trail due to a mechanical failure or emergency, prepare to spend time away from your vehicle. Take the essentials needed to keep yourself and your group safe, document where your vehicle is located, and leave enough information for recovery crews if necessary.
Modify this checklist to suit your needs. [Download PDF here]
Essential Gear to Take
Medical & Emergency Supplies
- First aid kit
- EpiPen or other required emergency medications
- Emergency information packet
Navigation & Documentation
- Clipboard with:
- GPS coordinates
- Medical information forms
- Group roster
- GPS device
- GPS waypoint list
- Paper maps
- Emergency contact numbers
Food & Water
- Lunch or trail food
- Water bottles or hydration system
Backpack Essentials
- Backpack
- Headlamp
- Flashlight (with holder or spare batteries)
- Work gloves
- Sunscreen
- Rain gear
- Goggles
- Sunglasses
Communications
- Satellite phone or satellite communicator
- Handheld ham radio
- Radio headset
Clothing
- Jacket or safety vest
- Hiking boots or sturdy footwear
Optional Recovery Equipment
If there is a reasonable chance the vehicle can be recovered before leaving the area, consider staging recovery equipment nearby.
Recovery Gear
- Recovery strap or kinetic recovery rope (KERR)
- D-ring shackles
- Snatch block
- Hi-Lift jack
- Jack base or jack board
- Jack Mate
- Tree saver strap
- Winch extension rope
Tire Repair Equipment
- Air compressor
- Tire plug repair kit
Before You Walk Away
Before leaving your vehicle, make sure you:
- Record your exact GPS coordinates.
- Photograph the vehicle and its surroundings.
- Leave a note with your name, contact information, date, time, and intended return if appropriate.
- Secure the vehicle by setting the parking brake and removing valuables.
- Notify your trail leader or another responsible person of your plans.
- Take only what you need—you may be hiking farther than expected.
- Return with the proper people and equipment as soon as it is safe to recover the vehicle.
Why Trail Leaders Must Plan for Vehicle Abandonment
With the multitude of potential problems for which you can write a contingency plan, why did I choose to share Abandon Your Vehicle?
As a Trail Leader, it revolves around having a customer mindset and customer focus. The loss of your vehicle (hopefully temporary) should not be a show-stopper for the outing and the customer experience. As long as other transport is available, you can continue as the Trail Leader.
Your vehicle can be dealt with after the trip, after everyone is in camp for the night, or by your tail-end gunner. The key is the checklist. Use it to ensure you take the necessary items for your comfort, health, and hydration, along with the tools needed to safely manage the trip and take care of your guests.
FAQs
Can I leave my Jeep on a trail overnight?
Yes, in many situations a temporary abandonment is the safest option, but you should notify the appropriate authorities or land managers when possible and return promptly for recovery.
What should I take if I have to leave my vehicle?
Take water, food, first aid supplies, navigation tools, communication devices, identification, and any essential medications.
Should I lock my vehicle?
Generally yes. Secure valuables, lock the vehicle if appropriate, and leave contact information if local regulations or circumstances warrant it.
Can I recover my vehicle the next day?
Often yes. Many recoveries are safely completed after additional equipment, parts, or experienced help arrives.
About the Author
Tom Severin, 4×4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit 4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.
