A standard 4×4 recovery kit has the essentials, but add these 13 items and you’ll be prepared for anything.
‘While off-roading in Botswana, this recovery bag (above) was essential for getting us out of sticky situations. We also noticed there was quite a bit of extra room in it so we put together a list of key items that we could fit into the bag to turn it into a “super-recovery kit”. Extra cost: R1115, and the items can be bought from most hardware stores.’ – Tyson Jopson
1. Tyre pressure gauge
From R95
The only thing less accurate than a Cape Town weather report is the tyre pressure gauge at a fuel station. Check your own pressures for total peace of mind.
2. Tubeless tyre repair kit
From R120
Repairing a 4×4 tyre isn’t all that difficult. It’s tubeless, but it’s very similar to fixing a bicycle tyre. Most kits come with step-by-step instructions. Get a few spare valves too.
3. Reflective vest
From R55
It’s not always necessary in the bush, but could come in handy on the highway en route. Safety first.
4. Rope
From R60 for 10m
Always useful in a pinch. Don’t buy shorter than 10m (you can always double up for short ties) and get outdoor braid that floats on water.
5. Ratchet straps
From R170 for a pair
These are great for securing bulky items and can even be used to secure a broken leaf spring for short distances. Buy a pair, because in the bush Murphy makes the laws.
6. Cable ties
From R30 for 60 ties
If MacGyver was made from plastic he’d be a cable tie. The uses are practically endless. Get a range of sizes from 100mm (light duty) to 600mm (heavy duty).
7. Hand cleaner
From R50 for a tub
Gloves are great for tyre changes and large jobs, but when things get finicky sometimes only raw fingers will do. Find a cleaner that contains silica grit for the best results.
8. Multipurpose spray
From R35 for R150ml
This light-duty lubricant can be used to dry wet electrical equipment, ease seized nuts and prevent corrosion. You’ll rarely need more than a small can on a trip.
9. Seed net
From R175
Tall grass and overgrown trails can clog up your radiator. Having a seed net over the front means you won’t spend hours cleaning it.
10. Spare headlight globes
From R50 for a pair (depending on type of globe)
They’re small and because they’re vehicle-specific the chances of you finding the right type when you’re in the gramadoelas are slim.
11. Head torch
From R125
Disaster doesn’t always strike in the daytime. Plus, a head torch is also good for carrying out undercarriage inspections.
12. Tape
Duct tape from R30 for 5m, silicone tape from R100 for 5m
Duct tape is great for binding, repairing tears and temporary waterproofing. Self-fusing silicone tape is also waterproof and impervious to fuel, oil, acids and solvents and can be used on radiator hoses, fuel lines, exhausts and fan belts.
13. Fuses
From R20 for a pack of eight (various sizes)
Sometimes the smallest things can leave you stranded. A fuse is one such thing. Pack spares – they’re cheap and don’t take up much room.
The basic recovery kit featured at top is standard with Avis 4×4 rentals and can be bought from Alu-Cab for R1200. They’ll also pimp your recovery kit on request. [email protected]
This article was first published in the October 2015 issue of Getaway magazine.
Please note that while all prices were correct at time of publication, they are subject to change at each supplier’s discretion.
