Exploring uncommon desert destinations is incredibly rewarding, but these landscapes demand respect and preparation. Many of the places in this guide are remote, lightly traveled, and far from cell service. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping your desert adventure safe and enjoyable.
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Know Before You Go: Desert Travel Basics
The desert is beautiful, but it’s unforgiving. Temperatures swing wildly, help can be hours away, and conditions can change quickly.
-Tell someone your route and timeline before heading out- be sure to let them know if you end up getting behind your schedule so they don’t panic.
-Check weather forecasts, especially for wind, heat, or rain- Flash floods can happen fast in the desert. If rain is in the forecast, make sure you won’t be in canyons.
-Download offline maps – Gaia, OnX, and Google Offline are good choices.
-Expect limited or no cell service in most remote areas- best bet is to get a satellite communicator. They have GPS, text and SOS capabilities. This communicator for Zoleo has everything you need.
-Start early to avoid extreme heat and harsh afternoon sun- the desert is a dry heat that can dehydrate you really fast. Don’t risk the extreme heat.
-Water Is Non-Negotiable- The arid desert will dehydrate you much faster than other climates. Don’t let cooler months fool you either it’s still a dry climate.
-Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day- Plus extra for emergencies. If you plan to camp, bring even more water for use at the campground. Don’t forget your pets! We usually buy a case or two of water to bring with us.
-Never rely on springs or pools unless you know they’re safe and flowing. To be on the safe side bring these water purification tabs and use them in any water you didn’t bring yourself.
Heat, Sun & Exposure Protection
Desert exposure is no joke. Pack with care to be sure you have plenty of protection. The following are a minimum of what you should bring:
-Wide-brim hat and sunglasses. Make sure your sunglasses have UPF protection.
-Lightweight long sleeves and breathable layers. The desert can cool off at night, you’ll be glad you have the extra layers.
-High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm. Use often, the sun in the desert can get harsh.
-Emergency shade – It’s always good to have a tarp, umbrella, or pop-up shade in the desert. There is very little shade in the open desert.
Flash Flood Awareness
Slot canyons, washes, and desert roads can flood quickly – even if it’s not raining where you are.
-Avoid narrow canyons if rain is forecast anywhere upstream.
-Never drive through moving water. This advice isn’t just for the desert. Depth can be deceiving in any moving water.
-Watch for sudden changes in cloud cover or rising winds. Even if there’s no rain in the forecast, it can come about quickly. Always be aware of your surroundings.
-If water starts flowing, move to higher ground immediately. Flash floods happen fast.
4WD & High-Clearance Vehicle Preparation
Many desert destinations require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. These roads are often rough, sandy, rocky, or muddy after rain.
Vehicle Essentials
-Before heading out, make sure your vehicle is desert-ready:
-High-clearance vehicle (AWD or 4WD strongly recommended)
-Full-size spare tire in good condition. You don’t want a mini spare on dirt roads.
-Tire repair kit and air compressor. We have this travel air compressor that we even use at home.
-Recovery straps and shackles
-Shovel -Sand and mud are common obstacles, better to have it and not need it than get stuck.
-Jumper cables or battery booster- We got this Roadside assistance emergency travel kit that has cables, tools and other handy items in case of an emergency.
Read Next: Ultimate Guide to Dirt Road Travel
Fuel Planning Matters
-Gas stations are few and far between in remote desert regions.
-Fill up whenever you have the chance.
-Carry extra fuel if your route is long or uncertain.
-Never assume the next town has fuel available.
Road Conditions Change Fast
Desert dirt roads can turn impassable with very little warning.
-Bentonite clay becomes slick and dangerous when wet.
-What looks solid can turn into deep mud after rain.
-If a road looks questionable, turn around early. Don’t keep driving and then get stuck.
-Don’t rely on “it worked for someone else” conditions. Some people may get lucky, but it’s not worth risking a muddy road or area that doesn’t look traveled.
Traveling With Pets in the Desert
If you’re bringing your dog along, extra planning is essential.
-Bring more water than you think you’ll need. This travel water bottle for pets is great to use both outdoors and in the car.
-Protect paws from hot sand and sharp rock
-Avoid midday hikes – early morning and evening are safest
-Check for ticks, cactus spines, and foxtails. These can easily get caught in your dog’s fur, so check often so your pup doesn’t get sick or hurt.
-Never leave pets unattended in vehicles. This is true anytime you are traveling with your pet.
Leave No Trace in Fragile Desert Landscapes
Many desert environments are extremely delicate and recover slowly.
-Stay on durable surfaces when possible
-Do not climb fragile rock formations
-Pack out everything you bring in
-Respect wildlife and historical sites
-Leave artifacts exactly where you find them
For more information read: Preserve the Wildlife: A Guide to Leave No Trace
Desert Travel Rewards the Prepared
Remote desert travel offers rare solitude and unforgettable landscapes, but preparation is what turns an adventure into a great experience instead of a dangerous one. With the right planning, vehicle setup, and mindset, the southwest becomes some of the most rewarding places you’ll ever explore.
We love to share information we learn along the way to help you when planning your next adventure. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun, and make many memories.