Being newish to Nevada, we love exploring this state and found that the Silver State has thousands of miles of dirt roads, trails, and tracks of land open to the public. And while we may be newish to Nevada, we’ve quickly learned one thing: traveling on dirt roads, here or anywhere, requires a little more prep than your average road trip. We also realized that these tips aren’t just relevant to Nevada, but anywhere you roam on dirt roads and open land. So, before you head out on that great outdoor adventure, be prepared and do research. Whether you’re heading into the desert, cruising to a backcountry ghost town, or navigating a dusty trail, don’t hit the dirt until you’ve read these essential dirt road travel tips.
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Vehicle Safety: Dirt Road Travel Starts with a Solid Ride
Before you bounce off the beaten path, do a full vehicle check. You don’t want to get stranded in the middle of nowhere with no cell service and a coyote judging your life choices.
Vehicle Inspection Checklist:
Fluids: Top off engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Bring extras just in case.
Air Filter: Clean out dust and debris. Your engine needs good airflow, especially in hot and dusty climates.
Belts, Hoses & Brake Pads: Inspect for wear and tear. Replace them if necessary, don’t risk it.
Tires: Use all-terrain tires with solid tread. Check the pressure and know how to air up or down based on terrain. Always pack a full-size spare, jack, and lug wrench—and know how to use them.
Lights: Make sure headlights, taillights, and brake lights work. Dirt roads at night are no joke.
Off-Road Recovery Gear: Because Getting Stuck Happens. You don’t plan to get stuck. But the trail has other ideas. Be ready and carry this with you.
Winch (or portable winch): Even a less powerful one can make a big difference.
Recovery Boards (traction boards): Great in mud or sand.
Recovery Straps: Choose based on your vehicle’s weight and trip type.
Tire Repair Kit: Handy for quick patch-ups.
Tool Kit: Wrenches, screwdrivers, socket sets; the usual suspects. We bring this Roadside emergency kit which has tools and other things you may need for an emergency.
Flashlight + Extra Batteries: Obvious but don’t forget.
Jumper Cables or Jump Pack: For you or the next guy.
Shovel & Air Compressor: May not use them, but you’ll be glad you have them when you need them. It may seem like a lot, but better safe, than sorry. We have this Airmoto air compressor for our tires, we even use it at home.
*Pro Tip: Keep this gear packed in a grab-and-go bin so you’re always ready for your next dirt road trip. Replenish anything you use as soon as you get home, so you don’t forget to do it.
Personal Safety & Essentials: Pack Like a Pro
You might just be taking a “quick” drive to a hot spring… until something goes sideways. Be sure to pack these, they are must haves:
First Aid Kit: Customize yours with extra-large bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, and whatever else you think you might need.
Water: One gallon per person per day, minimum. For longer trips or in case of emergencies, bring a multi-gallon water jug with you. You can never have too much water.
Food: Pack high energy, non-perishable snacks, and more than you think you’ll need.
Essentials: Trash bags, toilet paper, sunscreen, bug spray, ChapStick, and a good hat.
Clothing for All Conditions: Even if it’s hot, bring layers, gloves, and extra socks. Weather has a way of drastically changing in minutes and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
Communication: Don’t rely on cell service. A satellite communicator is a smart investment for remote trips.
Navigation: Always carry a paper map and printed topo maps. GPS apps can glitch, especially in the backcountry. Topographical maps can usually be downloaded and printed for free. Grab your map at a gas station near the area you’re exploring.
Fuel: Top off your tank before leaving pavement. Bring extra gas in a five-gallon can, just in case. Gas stations may be few and far between, better to have the extra than be stranded. We recommend this Eagle 5 Gallon can because of the safety features and its metal. The plastic ones aren’t as safe in the extreme heat of the desert.
Backroad Driving Etiquette & Safety: Don’t Be That Driver
Knowing how to handle yourself on unpaved roads isn’t just about survival, it’s about being respectful and smart.
Golden Rules of Dirt Road Driving:
Slow Down: You’re not racing the Baja 1000. Loose gravel, mud and sketchy curves make speed dangerous. You’ll probably have more than one animal run in front of you and you don’t want to have to slam on the brakes.
Keep Your Distance: Avoid tailgating. It’s rude, dusty, and dangerous. Let faster drivers pass, and hope others return the favor.
Stay Right: Even on one-lane roads. Especially on blind curves and hills. Even if you haven’t seen anyone in hours, there is still a chance you’ll meet someone, and you don’t want to be surprised and possibly cause a wreck.
Watch for Wildlife: Deer, cows, burros, they’re not looking both ways. Remember you’re visiting their home, and they don’t expect you. “Open Range” means they roam freely. Be aware that cows don’t really move for you and when they do, it’s at their own pace. Don’t expect an animal or bird to move for you, there’s a good chance they won’t. Always be aware of your surroundings for your safety and the wildlife.
Respect Private Property: “No Trespassing” means exactly that. Turn around and live to explore another day.
Leave What You Find: Old bottles, rusted tools, or mining relics? Take pictures, not souvenirs. It’s illegal to remove artifacts. It also ruins it for the next person. Always keep Leave No Trace in mind.
Stay Out of Old Mines & Buildings: They’re dangerous. That Instagram pic isn’t worth your life. Floors break, roofs cave in, and you never know what kind of poisonous gases are still hanging around. It’s not worth getting sick or worse, fatally hurt.
Don’t Tear Up Roads: If it’s too muddy or rutted get out and walk. Preserve the trail for others. Get out, stretch your legs and enjoy nature.
*Pro Tip: Plan to stop before sunset. Driving dirt roads at night is not only risky, but it’s also boring. Sunset is a perfect time to kick back and enjoy where you’ve landed.
Final Thoughts: Adventure Awaits: Just Be Ready
Exploring backroads and dirt trails is one of the best ways to experience the raw, wild beauty of the country. But these epic adventures can quickly turn into disasters if you hit the trail unprepared. Whether you’re cruising through the desert, driving on the beach, exploring ghost towns or exploring mountains and canyons, make safety and preparation your top priority. Because in Nevada, and anywhere with dirt roads, being prepared isn’t just smart. It’s survival.
Not only do we love to travel, but we love to give you information and tips we learn along the way to help make your trips and planning easier and better informed. If you need more help in planning your road trip, check roadtrippers.com. They have lots of tools to help you plan your best trip. Use code BTR5QTP to save $5. We hope to inspire you to find your adventure, have fun and make lots of happy memories.