While off-roading can be invigorating, it can put your safety at risk, especially on the most rugged terrain. Plus, you may be in remote areas where emergency services or other forms of help aren’t exactly nearby. You’ll want to equip your vehicle with key connected car add-ons for a safer ride. The best add-ons utilize GPS and data tracking, allowing you to know your exact location and what to expect when off-roading in any area.
Keep reading as we explore 10 connected car add-ons that can make your next road trip safer!
Key Takeaways
- Off-roading can be thrilling but poses safety risks, especially in remote areas.
- Connected car add-ons enhance safety by utilizing GPS and data tracking for a secure ride.
- Ten essential add-ons include telematics devices, tire pressure monitoring systems, and portable power stations.
- Key tools like satellite communicators, air compressors, and dash cams help manage emergencies and ensure vehicle performance.
- Investing in connected car technology keeps you informed and connected during your off-road adventure.
Table of contents
- 1. Turn to Telematics Devices
- 2. Check Your Tire Pressure Readings Often
- 3. Keep Gear Operational with Portable Power Stations
- 4. Choose Handheld Satellite Communicators
- 5. Handle Tire Management with Air Compressors
- 6. Invest in a Modern Dash Cam with ADAS
- 7. Send Your Location with GPS Beacons
- 8. Collect Key Vehicle Data with OBD-II Dongles
- 9. Build a Network with Rugged Mobile Routers
- 10. Attach Smart Recovery Trackers to Your Gear
- Get the Best Connected Car Add-Ons
1. Turn to Telematics Devices
With telematics devices, you can collect information on your vehicle’s location, fuel consumption, and speed. These devices include plug-in units that attach directly to your vehicle, and you can send collected data or alerts if your vehicle departs from a designated trip. When it comes to vehicle safety, this tool is handy when you’re navigating remote areas and want to keep family or friends looped into your travel.
2. Check Your Tire Pressure Readings Often
Whether you’re driving through the snow or riding through bumpy dirt roads, you’ll want to be mindful of tire pressure. That’s where a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can be a game changer. This system can track the air pressure in your tires and let you know if they’re underinflated or overheated. Low tire pressure can trigger blowouts and impact fuel usage, so you’ll want to stay aware of how your tires are handling off-road terrain. Plan on adding a tire repair kit to your vehicle, too, in case anything happens.
3. Keep Gear Operational with Portable Power Stations
Make sure you have a portable power station in your vehicle. These handy devices can keep phones, air compressors, and mini fridges running when you’re off the grid. Some fancier options even let you monitor battery life and charging status so you always feel prepared. While you’re at it, ensure that your vehicle has a first aid kit, traction boards, and other critical safety gear tucked in the trunk. Explore durable 4WD accessories so you can feel secure the next time you’re off-roading.
4. Choose Handheld Satellite Communicators
If you’re in the wilderness, you may not be able to use your cellphone. But if an emergency happens, you’ll want a way to reach out for help. Satellite communicators can fulfil that need. Choose a handheld version for optimal portability, or get one you can mount in your car. You’ll be able to communicate your location and SOS alerts. If you’re in an isolated area but otherwise safe, you can send short messages, too, to communicate your status.
5. Handle Tire Management with Air Compressors
On bumpy trails, you might not want your tires to be as inflated. But eventually, you’ll need to add more air again. You can do this with smart air compressors, which use apps to share current pressure levels and can reach a preset PSI without going over it. You’ll simplify tire management so you can focus on enjoying your excursion.
6. Invest in a Modern Dash Cam with ADAS
Today’s best dash cams include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that can alert you to difficult trails or windy roads. And when you’re exploring new territory, it helps to know what to expect. You can make more informed decisions about your next move or the timing of your drive.
7. Send Your Location with GPS Beacons
With GPS beacons, you can let family members or friends know your location as you travel. That way, if you encounter an emergency situation, you won’t be stranded. Emergency responders will be able to see your most recent location.
8. Collect Key Vehicle Data with OBD-II Dongles
You can plug OBD-II dongles into your vehicle’s diagnostic port to gather vehicle data and monitor vehicle performance. All of this information can be translated to you through a simple app. You’ll be able to see if your car’s battery has issues or know about engine issues before they snowball into bigger problems that derail your trip.
9. Build a Network with Rugged Mobile Routers
Are you traveling with a group? Then you’ll want rugged routers to build a cellular network. Rugged routers can offer strong signal strength and help you maintain several devices online at the same time. In short, they keep you connected to fellow travellers or remote work in any environment.
10. Attach Smart Recovery Trackers to Your Gear
When you add smart recovery trackers to your packing list, you can keep tabs on your gear. Check their use and condition. And make sure you don’t leave any critical tools behind before moving onto your next location, thanks to alerts from the tracker.
Get the Best Connected Car Add-Ons
When you select connected car add-ons, you will pave the way for a more secure off-roading trip. You can stay connected with family and friends. And you’ll be able to track your gear, car performance, and tire pressure more easily. Be proactive about safety before your next trip and invest in critical car add-ons.
