The desert east of San Diego is some of the best riding in the country, and it does not forgive mistakes. Cell service drops out, help is far away, and a small problem like a flat tire or a wrong turn can turn into a long, hot day. Most bad days in the desert come down to something that should have been in the truck and wasn’t.
Here is the checklist we use. Print it, screenshot it, tape it inside the toolbox.
Water and food
- More water than you think. Bring enough for the whole day for every rider and passenger, plus extra. A hydration pack on your back means you actually drink it.
- Extra in the truck. Leave water at the trailer so you come back to a cold supply.
- Salty snacks and real food. You sweat out salt, and it needs replacing.
Tools and recovery gear
- Basic tool kit that fits your machine’s fasteners, plus zip ties, electrical tape and a multi-tool.
- Tire plug kit and inflator. Most flats out here are punctures you can plug and keep riding. Practice once in the driveway before you need it.
- Tow strap. Soft straps are lighter and safer than chains. A machine with a winch makes recovery much easier, and every CFORCE ATV comes with one standard.
- Spare belt for a side-by-side or ATV, along with the tools to change it. See our belt care guide.
- Small shovel for sand.
Flags and lights
- Whip flag. Required in dune areas such as Glamis and the dunes at Ocotillo Wells. Riders coming over a dune crest can’t see you without one. Check the managing agency for current flag height and lighting rules.
- Working lights. Plan on getting back after dark at least once. Headlights, taillights and a light bar or lighted whip help others see you, and help you see the trail.
- Headlamp or flashlight for repairs after sunset.
Communication
- Don’t count on cell coverage. Large areas of the desert have none.
- Radios within the group. Handheld or machine-mounted radios keep the group together.
- Consider a satellite messenger or a phone with satellite messaging for emergencies.
- Offline maps. Download them before you leave home.
Fuel range
Know how far your machine goes on a tank in the conditions you will ride. Sand, low range and hard throttle burn far more fuel than a cruise on a graded road. Plan to turn around with at least a third of your fuel left, and bring extra fuel in an approved container if the ride calls for it.
Heat
- Ride early and wrap up before the worst of the afternoon heat, especially in the warmer months.
- Vented gear, a cooling neck wrap and shade at the trailer make a real difference.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion: headache, dizziness, nausea, stopping sweating. Stop, get shade, drink and cool down.
- Machines get hot too. Watch the temperature gauge and keep radiators clear of mud and brush.
Tell someone your plan
Before you leave, tell someone who is not riding where you are going, who is with you, and when you will be back. Give them a time to call for help if they haven’t heard from you. It costs nothing and it is the single most useful thing on this list.
Ride with a buddy
Never ride the desert alone. A second machine can tow you out, go for help or simply carry the water you forgot. If you don’t have a regular riding group, come on one of our adventure rides.
Before you leave the driveway
- Tires checked and at the right pressure for the terrain.
- Fluids topped off, air filter clean.
- Registration current (green sticker or plates) and any area permits in hand.
- Helmet, goggles, gloves and boots for everyone.
- First aid kit and sunscreen.
If your machine is due for service, book it a week before the trip, not the day before. Our El Cajon service department gets most jobs out same or next day, and we keep filters, belts and plug kits on the shelf in our parts department.
Need gear or a pre-trip check? Call (619) 486-6622 or stop by before you head east.