The tent is packed. The fridge is full. But when did you last check the vehicle carrying all of it? This camping trip vehicle checklist starts with the parts that get you there and bring you home.
In this week’s Prep Protocol, Rex puts the company Jeep Gladiator through a pre-trip check. His reason is simple: “Getting stuck sucks.” Watch the walkaround, then use the checklist below before your next trip.
Start where the rubber meets the road
Rex starts with tire pressure, tread and visible damage. Look for cuts, punctures and uneven wear before you leave. An unusual wear pattern is a reason to investigate alignment or suspension condition, rather than assume a tire is ready for another long drive.
Use your vehicle manufacturer’s pressure and load guidance. A loaded camping setup needs to stay within the vehicle’s ratings, including passengers, water and all the gear you added.
Bring a spare you can actually use
The Gladiator’s larger tires changed where its spare could live, so ours is mounted in the bed. Your setup may be different. Check the spare’s condition and compatibility, and make sure the jack and wheel tools suit your vehicle. The spare is only useful if you can get it on the vehicle safely.
Check the brakes before you add the weight
The rooftop tent, bigger tires and camping gear all shape how we use the company Jeep. In the video, Rex compares the old pads with fresh ones and checks wear with a gauge. If service is coming due, handle it before the trip.
This Gladiator runs an R1 Concepts front big brake kit with six-piston calipers and 356mm two-piece rotors. That is this build’s setup. Choosing parts for your own vehicle starts with its fitment, condition and use. Our brake kit vs. big brake kit guide explains the difference between a factory-size refresh and a larger system.
Give the suspension a closer look
Rex checks the shocks, springs and other suspension components while the Jeep is in the garage. Look for leaks, damage and wear, and review any maintenance that is due. Have anything questionable inspected before you head somewhere remote.
Finish with the fluids
The walkaround includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and power steering fluid where applicable. Follow the owner’s manual for the correct checking conditions, fluid specifications and fill limits. Coolant color alone does not establish compatibility. Check coolant only with the system cool, and have unexplained fluid loss investigated.
Your camping trip vehicle checklist
- Check tire pressure, tread and visible damage.
- Inspect the spare and pack the correct tools.
- Check brake wear and complete needed service.
- Inspect suspension components and review maintenance.
- Check applicable fluids using the owner’s manual.
- Confirm the loaded vehicle stays within its ratings.
Pack the gear. Check the rig. Start the checks early enough to fix what you find. When it is time for a brake refresh, find R1 Concepts parts for your vehicle or talk with a brake specialist about your setup.
