Your utility vehicle is built to tackle all types of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re conquering rugged terrain, hitting high speeds, or getting down to business at the worksite, there are no limits to what you’ll be able to accomplish. Did you know that your UTV is also the perfect camping companion? You’ll be tearing up the trails all day long and resting your head under the stars at night. Cool Springs Powersports has created this guide with helpful tips for camping with your UTV. Read on for more! Be sure to visit our dealership in Franklin, TN, near Nashville, if you have questions or if you’d like to check out our inventory.

Planning Your Trip

You’ll want to keep in mind that camping with a side by side is quite different than your typical camping trip, especially when it comes to the planning phase. You’ll need to hammer out the same details but tailor them to a utility vehicle. You can start by choosing your destinations. Determine which riding sites you want to visit as well as any tourist attractions you want to see along the way.

Next, find a campsite that’s conveniently located nearby. You’ll want to claim your spot early so you have a guaranteed reservation. Not to mention that you’ll save money by booking ahead. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast for your UTV camping trip. You don’t want to schedule an entire trip during poor weather. It’s best to avoid rain, snow, and intense heat.

Preparing Your UTV

Your UTV is going to be your mode of transportation to your destination, your method of transporting your belongings and gear, and your ticket to fun around the campsite. Needless to say, it’s a critical aspect of your camping experience as a whole. Therefore, your side by side must be in good condition before you take off. You don’t want to waste a big chunk of your trip by having to make a trip to the mechanic.

The good news is that this isn’t a difficult task. All you need to do is perform a thorough pre-ride inspection. This will help alert you to any mechanical issues before you hit the road so you can tend to them before your UTV camping trip. You’ll want to test anything that could break down during your journey. Check that the lights are working and that the brakes are functioning. Examine your tires and confirm they have enough tread and pressure.

Packing Strategies

When it comes to packing for your adventure, you should try to be a minimalist. To put it simply: the less you pack, the better. You’ll need to bring the essentials, including clothing, shelter, medications, food, water, toiletries, and fire-building supplies.  Try to bring as many travel-size products as you can, like deodorants, soaps, and so on. You will only need enough for a few days, so don’t overdo it. You can also make use of backpacking gear as these items are designed to be compact and lightweight.

Choosing A Campsite

Last but not least, you’ll need to choose a campsite. Think about what amenities are most important to you. Do you need running water? What about electricity? Look for a campsite that is located near the attractions you want to visit during your trip. When you arrive, you’ll want to be selective about where you set up your camp.

A flat site is going to give you a much better night’s sleep than a slanted one. Be strategic about the precise location. Too far from the camp is going to put you at risk of experiencing animal encounters. Too close to camp and you’ll be bothered by the lights and sounds of other people in the area. Try to find a nice middle ground.

You’re officially ready for a UTV camping trip. If you’re still in the market for a side by side, swing by our dealership to browse our UTVs for sale. We’re conveniently located in Franklin, TN. We also serve those in Spring Hill and Columbia.