Off-roading is more than just driving. It’s freedom, adventure, and exploring you and your rig in the wild. Whether you’re planning your first trail ride or gearing up for overlanding, here’s a friendly breakdown of everything you need to get started.
Choose the Right Vehicle and Know Its Limits
Not all off-road adventures require a lifted truck on 37s. Many stock SUVs, trucks, and even crossovers can handle basic trails and fire roads. The key is knowing your vehicle’s ability, such as vehicle clearance, drivetrain (AWD vs. 4WD), and approach/departure angles. You can always start with beginner-rated trails and build up as your skills and rig evolve.
Air Down Your Tires
Airing down your tires increases traction and smooths out the ride on rough terrain. It’s a small but important step with a big payoff.
Here's some recommended PSI in general for different terrain:
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Gravel/Dirt Roads: 25–30 PSI
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Sand: 15–20 PSI
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Rocks: 15–25 PSI
But remember — what goes down must come back up. Before hitting pavement again, you’ll need to air back up, and that’s where a VIAIR compressor comes in clutch.
For beginners, we recommend starting with:
• EVC88P: A compact, budget-friendly compressor that runs off your vehicle battery. Perfect for occasional use, also available with a 7-way Connector power cord that allows you to power it straight from the trailer plug.
• 300P: A larger powerful portable tire inflator kit that is capable of inflating up to 33-inch tires easily, and a longer hose for flexibility and convenience.
Looking to level up with an onboard setup?
• VMS: VIAIR Dual Mounted Systems (VMS) are high-performance onboard air systems designed to provide high CFM and fast tire fill with unsurpassed durability. VMS can be used for tire inflation, air tools, air horns, air lockers, air bags, and inflatables.
•TLC PRO: The no-compromise kit for the rider and adventurer who wants a top-notch pneumatic system for their car, van, or truck. The TLC PRO packs 150PSI in a quarter-gallon tank, allowing you to easily set up tubeless, inflate vehicle tires, perform blowing tasks, and even use air tools in a roadside emergency.
Whether portable or permanent, having a compressor on board keeps you prepared and confident wherever the trail leads.
Gear up and start modding, But Start Simple
You don’t need to outfit your rig with every mod on day one. Start with the basics:
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All-terrain tires
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Tow points
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Air compressor (yes, again!)
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Recovery gear
Upgrade as your adventures and skills grow and upgrade your gear that cater to your own style!
JUST DO IT
Off-roading is all about gaining experience and exploring the great outdoors. The more you get out there, the more you’ll discover what works for you. From the gear you rely on to the kind of trails you love most. Along the way, you’ll pick up trail etiquette, make off-road friends, and turn every ride into an adventure. Preparation is key: the better equipped you are, the more fun you’ll have and the safer you’ll be. From airing down to getting unstuck, a VIAIR compressor is one of the easiest ways to boost your confidence and make every off-road journey a smooth one.
If you have any further questions or suspect internal issues of your compressor, you can always contact us:
Call us at 949-585-0011 from 8AM-5PM PT, Monday-Friday
Chat us with our website’s Live Chat feature from 8AM-5PM PT, Monday-Friday