LifestyleSummer Vehicle Prep: Simple Tips to Get Your Rig Trail-Ready

Before you pack the cooler and cue up the road trip playlist, take a minute to make sure everything under the hood—and around your ride—is good to go. Summer heat doesn’t mess around.

• Tires: Look for cracks, uneven wear, or bald spots. Hot pavement and off-road terrain can be brutal on old rubber. Check your PSI while you’re at it.
• Cooling System: Your engine works harder in the heat. Check your coolant level and give those hoses a squeeze—if they’re soft or leaking, swap them out.
• A/C: If the air’s not blowing cold, check your cabin filter or recharge the system. You’ll miss it quick when you’re idling in the sun.
• Fluids: Oil, brake fluid, transmission, washer fluid—make sure they’re clean and topped off. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating or worse.
• Battery: Heat can take out a weak battery faster than winter ever could. If yours is old or crusted with corrosion, replace it before it strands you.
• Brakes: When you’re hauling gear or navigating steep descents, solid brakes matter. Check your pads and rotors and replace anything that’s worn.

Once the basics are covered, it’s time to think about what else can make your summer trips smoother, cooler, and a little more fun.

• Cold Air Intake: Helps your engine breathe easier, especially in hot weather. More airflow = better power and mileage.
• Sun Protection: A good windshield sunshade keeps your cab from turning into a sweatbox and protects your dash and seats from sun damage.
• Trail-Ready Coolers: Rough Country coolers keep your stuff cold and handle the heat. Built tough enough for the trail, they can even double as a seat when the chairs don’t make it.
• Suspension Upgrades: If your ride still feels stock on rough trails, a suspension upgrade can smooth things out and give you better control on dry, rutted paths.

You’ve checked your rig, added a few upgrades—now it’s time to ride. Keep these tips in your back pocket to make sure your day in the sun doesn’t take a turn.

• Pack more water than you think you need. Heat wears you out fast, and dehydration hits before you realize it.
• Know your route. Check trail conditions and the forecast. Let someone know where you're headed in case plans change.
• Emergency kit = must-have. First-aid supplies, flashlight, basic tools, jumper cables—anything you might need to get back on track.
• Air down for the trails, air up for the drive home. You’ll get better traction and avoid unnecessary tire wear.
• Respect the land. Stick to marked trails, avoid tearing up soft terrain, and pack out all your trash. It keeps places open for all of us.

Prepping your vehicle doesn’t take long, but it makes all the difference. Nobody wants to be stuck with a blown hose or weak battery when there’s fun to be had.

Whether it’s keeping your engine cool or upgrading your suspension for better trail handling, Rough Country has the gear to help you make the most of every mile.

Got your own summer prep routine or a favorite trail to ride? Share it with us in the comments!