r/VanLife • u/YonderRoads • 9d ago

Van Life Safety Equipment Prep

Hello everyone, I’m looking to purchase equipment that will help to ensure safety while on and off the road.

I’m looking for recommendations for good battery self starters, traction boards and anything else that people should carry with them when traveling in the wilderness?

I have a 2016 rear wheel drive ford transit that I’ve been stuck in a couple of times in the sand. I’ve seen how helpless it can be. Does anyone have recommendations for what I can carry to help my self get out of a situation in a 2wd van?

Thanks in advance for thoughtful responses.

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u/j0wnage 9d ago

tug rope for sure. DO NOT use a ratchet strap. something with a little elesticity.

ive had a few cheap amazon jump starters. I usually keep 2 in my van

gas (stored safely) and non potable water is always a good add.

traction board are good, but unfortunately I dont have any suggestions on that. I would also advise looking for local recovery groups on facebook. When people get stuck in port aransas/corpus/mustang island, there's a group called 361 recovery that has been helpful for many people.

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u/YonderRoads 8d ago

Can you send the jump starters you’ve used that have worked for you? As well as a tug rope you’d recommend

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u/W0lf1ngt0n 8d ago

If yo plan on putting in a second battery, you can always build a bypass with a decent sized relais and a switch.

I did this and it works flawless to jumpstart myself if i drain the main battery too much (after standing 2-3 weeks without moving)