5 Tips for an Ultimate Off-Roading Experience with Kids - JEDCo

Ready for an off-roading experience with the whole family? Before you pack the Jeep for your trip, check out our tips for your next off-road experience with the kids.

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Tips for Off-Roading with Kids

Preparing for family road trips can be stressful. Everyone has different places they want to see, and then there's the hassle of making sure everybody is packed and ready to go. But when you drive a formidable off-road machine like a Jeep, it gets even more complicated: how do you ensure that your family will be safe when the trail gets treacherous? For your next off-roading adventure with kids, we're sharing our advice to ensure the whole family has a great time they'll never forget.  

From planning to packing, we'll cover our best tips, so that your family and your Jeep are off-road ready. We'll also share our best advice for harmoniously traveling with kids so that your next off-road vacation will be better than ever. 

Plan an Appropriate Route

Take your kids' ages into account. Consider your family's camping experience level and road experience when planning a route. Are you traveling with teens already into high-speed racing on their ATVs? Or are you bringing two toddlers who might feel uneasy on difficult terrain? Different states may also have a minimum age requirement for off-roading. 

If your family has taken off-road vehicle trips before, maybe you're up for rocky climbs. But you'll still need to consider the time of year and where you'll be traveling. No one wants to encounter snow or mudslides when you&#;re not ready for it. Make sure your Jeep is trail-rated and ready for the terrain it might encounter. Ask your family for input, too, and include them in the decision-making process. Make sure there's time in your itinerary for some fun stops. You&#;ll also want your daily drive times to be within a reasonable range or, before you know it, you&#;ll be hearing the dreaded &#;Are we there yet?&#; from the backseat.

Forests and Public Lands

Many families start their off-roading adventures in forests and public lands. National Forests or National Parks can be a great choice, especially for first-time off-roaders. Trails are usually maintained or at least monitored in these areas. 

Also consider that many public lands will require permits for all or certain types of vehicles operating off-road. You'll probably be restricted to road trails here, as many of these areas are environmentally sensitive. Driving off the designated path can have adverse impacts so be careful and respectful. Environmental responsibility is a huge part of Jeep culture. 

Rustic Camping

Long trail routes wind through undeveloped land. If your off-road experience involves days on the trail, be prepared for some rugged camping. Many places will not offer essential services, and you can't be sure of water quality along the route. We recommend bringing your own water supply.

Talk to kids about how rustic camping works. Teach them how to cook on a fire and dig a latrine. Practice camping in the backyard and review how to get comfortable sleeping on the ground (or better yet, a rooftop tent). There are many ways to help your kids learn about rustic camping. You want everyone prepared to have fun when you&#;re ready to hit the trail in your off-road vehicle.  

Pack Necessary Supplies and Special Treats

Be sure to pack any trail maps you'll need for off-roading. We recommend reviewing the routes together as a family so everyone knows what to expect. Kids probably won't be entertained by the map for the duration of the trip so make sure you plan some road activities so you can focus on the road. It probably won&#;t hurt to bring an iPad or Kindle for some much-needed screen time (and quiet).

Make packing a family activity. Use it as an opportunity to teach your kids what supplies you&#;re bringing and why. For example, while packing trash bags, have an essential discussion about leaving campsites cleaner than when you found them. You could also explore the first aid kit together and show your kids how to treat basic injuries in children and adults. 

Keeping Kids Motivated

When introducing kids to new activities, it's good to give them lots of positive reinforcement. If you want them to enjoy off-roading in the Jeep as much as you do, reward them with special treats. Bring along a favorite candy or snack for bribing purposes. For small kids, pack lots of picture books, nature books, and activity books to keep them occupied.

Remember to schedule downtime on your trip too. Everyone will need a break on occasion, so make sure to work this into your itinerary. Worn out kids are hard to engage and even harder to keep happy. Keep the whining to a minimum. Be sure to plan breaks and pack snacks so everyone will have a chance to rest and recharge.

Keeping Kids Safe

Hopefully, you already keep an emergency kit in your Jeep, but it could lack some essential supplies to keep your kids happy and healthy. One of the most common health problems traveling with children is diarrhea. Make sure your emergency kit has medicine to treat this. Also, carry lots of water to prevent dehydration. And pack the bug spray! Itchy children make for unpleasant traveling companions.

Ensure you have proper safety seating for your kids in your off-roading vehicle. A booster seat or car seat will be required for young children. 

Calm Their Fears and Answer Their Questions

Children can become apprehensive about new situations they have no control over. Combat this by thoroughly answering their questions. Sign up for an off-roading class or safety education course through your local Jeep club. The more your child knows, the more confidence they&#;ll have to deal with real off-roading situations. 

Answering your child's questions helps to alleviate their fears. When kids know what the plan is, they're less likely to panic if something goes wrong. The more you can share with your children ahead of time, the more confident they'll be on the trails.

Trail Etiquette

If you don&#;t want to damage your precious Jeep, make sure you follow trail etiquette. Many road trails over rugged terrain are shared pathways for different off-road vehicles, horses, mountain bikers, and hikers. Follow the Wheels Yield to Heels rule when sharing the road. This means that motorized vehicles and bikers should yield to all other travelers on the trail.

The Wheels Yield to Heels method helps to prevent accidents, but the U.S. Forest Service also provides other great tips for following trail etiquette: 

• Be aware of others along the trail.
• Slow down on corners. 
• Obey all posted signs. 
• Respect wildlife. 
• Clean up after yourself and any animals you bring on your trip.
• Approach pedestrians slowly. 
• Stay on designated trails. 

Keep your Jeep or other off-road vehicles well maintained and clean. Not only will this ensure you're safe on the trails, but it will also prevent the spreading of non-native seeds from one area to another. 

Wear Proper Attire

Traveling through rugged terrain means you'll need to be appropriately outfitted before heading out. You won't always be able to pick up what you need along the way. Read the weather for the area where you&#;ll be off-roading and pack accordingly. And if you need some Jeep apparel for the kids, head here.

Rain Coats and Warm Jackets

Even if you're planning on taking a family off-road trip through the desert in the summer, it's still a good idea to bring a raincoat. Rainstorms can sweep in with surprising swiftness. Don&#;t let unpredictable weather affect your journey. Prepare by bringing raincoats for everyone in your group. 

The same goes for a warm jacket, preferably a sturdy one. Even the desert can get cold at night. Be prepared for unexpected chill by bringing an extra coat, even if you think you won't need it. 

Sun Protection

Kids have sensitive skin, so don't forget the sunscreen. Bringing along hats and sunglasses is a good idea to protect everyone from harsh UV rays. Off-roading is not as much fun with a sunburn. 

Bring a GPS Device

Outfit your Jeep with a GPS device before heading out. Mistakes happen. If you go off-route during your adventure, you'll want to be able to find your way back. 

If you don't already own a GPS, work with your family to find a model everyone feels comfortable using. Teach older children how to use your GPS so they know how it works in an emergency. 

Final Thoughts Before Hitting the Road

By now, you're probably dreaming up a few family-oriented off-road adventures. Remember, on any road trip, planning and communication is key to everyone's happiness, and that&#;s even more important when you go off-road. Getting kids involved in the planning helps them stay engaged and excited for their journey. You're ready once you've packed the proper supplies and have informed the family about what to expect. 

With our tips, you'll be all set to embark on your family-friendly adventure. All you need now is the perfect trail. So head out on those off-road trails and enjoy the great outdoors! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do you need for off-roading?

Be prepared for rough terrain. Test your Jeep's off-road performance before heading out. As far as your Jeep goes, upgrading your engine lubricant can help handle the extra weight of your camping gear. In addition, consider upgrading your air intake heading out. 

Off-roading tires can be beneficial whether using the four-wheel-drive or just the rear wheels. Other specialized equipment you may need includes:

• A fully stocked emergency kit.
• Lighting.
• Tools to repair your vehicle.
• A fire extinguisher. 

How to choose the right type of off-roading for you?

Dune bashing, green laning, mudding, or rock crawling: Which is the best option for you and your family? Make the decision together and do a little something that everyone is interested in. Different types of off-roading are only available in certain places. For instance, mudding is prohibited on public land. 

Consider the challenge rating of different routes and whether you have the appropriate road tires to traverse them. Think about your passengers, too. An off-road adventure with water fording might entice teens but be too intense for younger kids. 

Has there ever been a better time to go off-roading?

We don&#;t think so. At the tail end of a pandemic, we&#;re all desperate for a little fun. Other attractions have opened back up, so you can grab lunch at a local spot and then head out for a socially distanced outdoor adventure. 

Other kinds of events are back on, too, like the Jeep Jamboree. Look for weekend events in your area to join in on all the fun with your fellow Jeepsters. You can also have off-roading fun at one of the Jeep Week celebrations across the country. Go here for events near you.

What is the longest trail in California?

The longest off-road trail in California is the Mojave Road, at 150 miles long. This road passes through the Mojave National Preserve. Only street-legal vehicles in California are allowed in this protected area, so it's a great trip to take in your Jeep. 

To protect and conserve the preserve, travelers must stay on the trail. The whole trip takes about three days and offers the opportunity for rustic camping and stunning views along the way.   

Why do people enjoy off-roading?

Good question. Off-roading appeals to the thrill-seekers in all of us. In addition, lots of Jeepsters love the challenge of navigating their Jeep off-road. Others enjoy getting a glimpse of nature that many people don't get to experience. When you off-road with a friend or family member, you can bond and make lasting memories in a way that&#;s hard to replicate on the road.

What is the point of off-roading?

Is &#;fun&#; too simple of an answer? We don&#;t think so. But there are other goal-oriented reasons to go off-roading. You might off-road to reach a specific campsite or for the experience of scenic views along the trail.

Is off-roading a hobby?

Yes. Millions of Americans go off-roading each year. Off-roading combines the love of the great outdoors with the thrill of driving on unsurfaced roads. Off-roading is especially popular among Jeep owners, which is why Jeep offers the trail-rated badge.

Page Content

&#;By: Charles Jennissen, MD, FAAP

You don't see them just in rural areas anymore. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are popular among outdoor enthusiasts of all ages who ride them on trails, fields and off-highway vehicle parks.

ATVs are motorized vehicles with three or four off-road tires, throttle and hand brakes on the handlebars and a straddle seat. Most ATVs these days have four wheels since three-wheeler production was banned in .

Driving an ATV requires skill and quick thinking. It also takes reflexes and strength that kids just don't have. That's why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children under 16 should not be allowed to operate an ATV.

Why ATVs aren't safe for kids

From &#;, ATV crashes killed more than 3,000 children under the age of 16. Nearly 1 million more were taken to the emergency department due to an ATV crash. In fact, it's estimated that about 4 kids are seen in an emergency department every hour for an ATV-related injury in the United States.

With advances in technology, ATVs are becoming bigger and faster. While this increases the vehicles' "thrill factor," it also creates the potential for more traumatic injuries.

The most common types of ATV injuries are bumps, bruises, cuts, dislocations and fractures. But more serious injuries also happen. A rollover can lead to trauma to the chest, abdomen, head or spine. Concussions and other head injuries are common, especially if the rider is not wearing a helmet.

Around 60% of ATV deaths occur on public roadways, both paved and unpaved. Despite their name, ATVs are not safe on all terrains. They have a high center of gravity, a narrow track, and off-road tires that can unevenly grab paved or gravel road surfaces.

If you do allow your children under age 16 to ride an ATV, the AAP urges you to follow these safety rules:

• Wear a helmet. Riders should always wear motorcycle-style helmets that are approved by the Department of Transportation. Wearing a helmet may greatly prevent or reduce the severity of a head injury in a crash.

• Don't ride with or as a passenger. Most ATVs are designed to carry only one person: the driver. Passengers can make ATVs less stable and difficult to control.

• Stay off public roads. ATVs are not designed for roadway use like cars and trucks. They don't have the common safety equipment that all cars and trucks do. ATVs have knobby treaded, low pressure tires that can unpredictably grab public roadway surfaces and lead to loss of control and rollover.

• Don't cross public roads. The exception is if it's permitted by law and supervised by someone who is at least 18 years old.
  

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• Only use an ATV that is the right size for the driver. Adult-sized ATVs can weigh over 800 lbs. and reach speeds over 70 mph. Their size and speed make them too dangerous for kids to drive. More than 90% of deaths and injuries among ATV riders younger than 16 have occurred when they were on adult-size vehicles.
  

• Never allow riding at night. This means no riding after dusk and until dawn. Flags, reflectors and lights should always be used to make vehicles more visible.

• Do not drive ATVs while under the influence. Alcohol, drugs and even some prescription or over-the-counter medicines can physically or mentally impair your driving skills and abilities. This sets a good example for your children too.

To reduce risks as much as possible, the AAP recommends these practices by age group:

Children younger than 6 years of age:

• Never allow children in this age group to operate an ATV. Their physical, mental, and reasoning skills are way too limited.

• Never carry or allow kids under 6 to ride as passengers on an ATV.

Children 6 to 11 years of age:

• There are youth ATV models made for kids in this age group. But their safety is unknown and kids this age still have many limitations in their abilities.

• Considering these points, it's best to not allow children this age on ATVs at all.

Children 12 to 15 years of age:

• Keep children in this age range on youth ATV models. Even though some kids may fit adult ATVs properly, 98% of deaths and injuries in this age group happen on adult vehicles.

• Directly supervise your child to make sure they follow safe riding practices.

Teenagers 16 years of age and older:

• Teens in this age group should follow all the safety rules and recommendations above. This includes always wearing an approved helmet and never riding with passengers.

• Unless it's absolutely necessary, your teen shouldn't drive on public roads. Even if it's legal, it's not safe.

• If your older teen does drive on a public road, they should follow all traffic safety laws and regulations.

• It's best for your teen to avoid riding at night, even if it's legal.

The AAP strongly encourages parents and other adults to follow these additional safety recommendations:

• Get training. Have your child or teen take an ATV safety course before they ride an ATV. Check ATVsafety.org or call 1-800-887- for resources.

• Wear protection. Make sure your child wears other protective gear along with a helmet. This includes a face shield or goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves. Consider using a chest protector and sturdier gear if your child is going to be riding at higher speeds, such as ATV motocross racing.

• Check the speed limiter. Set and enforce speed limiter settings on youth ATV models for noncompetitive riding.

• Add safety features. Put an orange safety flag at least 5 feet off the ground on your child's youth-size ATV. Use reflectors and lights so the ATV can be seen better by others.

• Educate. Make sure your child knows and understands the ATV safety rules.

• Encourage consistent safety rule practice. Use appropriate discipline when needed so your child has consequences when they don't follow the rules. For example, if they ride without their protective gear, you could take away riding privileges for a specific amount of time.
  

Types of ATVs

ATVs come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and power levels. Most have four tires are designed exclusively for use on off-road terrain only

Three-wheeled ATV production was banned in because of how unsafe they are. But these vehicles are still injuring and killing riders, including children. Because of this, the AAP recommends that if you have a 3-wheeler, you stop using it immediately. Don't sell it to anyone else. Instead, make sure it can't be operated.

What to know about youth model ATV categories

There are four youth ATV categories that vary in speed and motor size. No ATVs are made for children younger than 6. Many youth ATVs come with speed limiters. These are usually a screw that limits the throttle.

Youth Model Name

Age recommendation

Max speed with speed limiter engaged

Max speed without speed limiter engaged

Y6+

6 years and older

10 mph

15 mph

Y10+

10 years and older

15 mph

30 mph

Y12+

12 years and older

15 mph

30 mph

Y14+

14 years and older

20 mph

38 mph

There is no research to suggest whether these speeds are safe for kids to travel. The manufacturers haven't done any studies with kids to determine the speeds at which they can safely drive.

What about side-by-sides?

Another type of off-road vehicle that's becoming more popular is the side-by-side. Like ATVs, side-by-sides can roll over. Unlike ATVs, many of them have seat belts and a rollover protective structure. Still, side-by-sides are a safety concern as well.

These recommendations from AAP are for ATVs. They do not include side-by-sides. As more research is completed, a separate policy statement with recommendations for side-by-sides.

ATV laws and regulations

The majority of states have laws about the operation of ATVs. The laws vary greatly by state. These regulations cover everything from helmet use to how old the driver must be. Yet even states with the most complete sets of rules report ATV-related deaths and injuries each year.

You can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for information on ATV laws and training in your state.

Stay proactive

Even if you don't own an ATV yourself, don't assume that your child doesn't have access to one. If you don't want your child on an ATV, let your child, your child's friends and other relevant adults know.

If you allow your child to operate an ATV, you should closely supervise them and enforce safety rules. But remember that just watching your child won't prevent a crash.

Remember

It's very easy for a child to jump on an ATV, push the throttle and make it go. But that doesn't mean that they're able to make the decisions that are necessary to safely operate them.

More information

About Dr. Jennissen

Charles Jennissen, MD, FAAP, is a Clinical Professor in the Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. He is lead author of the AAP policy statement and technical report on ATV safety. Dr. Jennissen serves on the AAP Council on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention and Section on Emergency Medicine.

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