Storage in Four Wheel Drives.

Long distance travel in remote areas can call for carrying a great many items - sufficient food and water, clothing, bedding, camping gear, spares, the list goes on. Suddenly the four wheel drive doesn't seem so big after all.

A well designed storage system can increase the effective storage capacity, let you get at things more easily, and also render the load more secure and safer on rough roads or, heaven forbid, in an accident.

This Range Rover is well set up for outback travel. Swing-away rear carriers mount a spare wheel, a shovel for de-bogging and a tray for dirty recovery gear such as wheel-chains, slings etc. Inside is a second spare wheel, a fridge for a cold one, and a set of home-made drawers built out of exterior plywood. If you are "handy" fitting out the vehicle need not cost an arm or a leg.

Ideally, heavy items should be carried low down, in front of the rear axle to give the most favourable centre of gravity. If a roof-rack must be used, place the lightest possible items up there such as bedding and tents.

If you are involved in a roll over or an accident the load will become a collection of potentially lethal projectiles. Securely bolt, strap or tie-down as many items as possible. Fitting a safety barrier between the rear cargo area and the passengers is also a good idea.

Be ruthless when loading the vehicle. Do you really need that widget? Items unlikely to be needed can be placed in the hardest to reach spot. Make a list of vehicle spares and where the are. Items that might be needed in an emergency should be easy to reach - note the first aid kit above.

See also the offroad page