One of the best ways to elevate your beach vacation or exploration is by bringing along a UTV. These utility task vehicles allow you to easily traverse rolling dunes and long stretches of hot sand. Whether you rent a UTV for the length of your beach visit or bring along your personal ride, this vehicle can be a source of incredible fun while you’re by the water.
That said, operating your UTV on unique terrains will require you to take extra care in how you drive, where you go, and how you prepare your vehicle. Read on to explore three tips for driving your UTV on the beach that will help you focus on the fun!
Gear Up
Before you get behind the wheel, you’ll want to stock your UTV with a few essentials. For example, a shovel can help you dig out your UTV’s tires should you sink too far into the sand. You’ll also want a piece of rubber, such as a floor mat, to help you gain traction and drive your vehicle out of the loose sand.
Along with supplies for freeing your UTV, you’ll also want standard safety gear for your ride. While off-roading on a beach may seem safer than off-roading on rougher terrain, drivers can face hazards in the dunes as well. Protective goggles and helmets can defend a driver’s head from debris and crash-related injuries, and thick outer layers can defend the body from skid injuries in an accident. You may not want to think about worst-case scenarios while on a beach vacation, but remaining prepared is crucial.
Prep Your UTV for the Terrain
UTVs seem as if they can withstand anything, and for the most part, they are incredibly versatile rides. However, while these vehicles have the features necessary to tackle rugged trails, there are things you can do to further prepare your UTV for a sandy, hilly environment. For example, you’ll want to add a safety whip, or a tall flag, that allows other riders to see you over the height of the dunes. You can also switch your tires to versions that provide maximum traction; look for tires with deep lugs or paddles to push you through the sand.
If you’re bringing your personal UTV on your beach trip, consider modifying your UTV for off-roading before you go. You can make many changes, but adding a winch kit is perhaps the most important for exploring the dunes. Local UTV rentals should provide vehicles that can handle the beach terrain, but it’s always wise to check if the business includes a winch in the rental you’re considering.
Avoid Braking Too Soon
If you’re new to riding a UTV or operating a vehicle on a beach, you may find yourself in situations that make you need to brake quickly. After all, other drivers will likely join you on your adventure, and no one wants to bump into each other. However, one crucial tip for driving your UTV on the beach is to avoid braking quickly.
Braking too hard is one of the easiest ways to dig your UTV into a pit or force your vehicle to slide along the sand, which may lessen your control. When possible, switch gears and slow down instead of hitting the brakes right away. Factor your limited braking ability into how you drive; you’ll want to leave more room between your UTV and other vehicles or obstacles than you normally might.
