4X4 Australia

For more than 40 years, I’ve been pumping up tyres the slow way.

Back in the day – as a teenager – I relied on my old man’s trusty foot pump. Thirty to forty minutes of leg work just to bring pressures back up after a weekend of low-psi fun. Hard yakka, but it did the job.

Then came the game changer: my first single-head 12V compressor. At the time, I felt like king of the track, kicking back while it did the hard work for me. Since then, I’ve owned a few different models – all single-cylinder – and never really felt the urge to upgrade.

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Sure, I’ve tested plenty of twin-head units over the years, ranging from bargain-bin specials to top-shelf monsters. But none ever tempted me enough to make the switch.

Hoses and attachments

Then came the era of inflation kits – head units, multi-hose systems and all sorts of fancy gizmos claiming to make tyre inflation quicker and easier.

Sure, some did streamline the job, but having a compressor, a control unit and four separate hoses to unwind, store and inevitably untangle just didn’t make sense to me. Add in all the extra gear you need to carry, and suddenly a basic job turns into a storage hog – all for marginal time savings.

Light bulb moment

While trawling through the usual sea of aftermarket accessories, the Big Red Gear twin-head air compressor caught my eye. For the price, it looked impressive – especially with features like auto cut-off when a preset digital pressure is reached. Add the optional Quad-Flate kit, and you get rapid deflation capability too – a big plus in my books.

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The real clincher? Unlike most four-tyre inflation setups that use four separate hoses, this one runs all four tyres with just two. Now that’s a system I actually wanted to try.

The trick lies in the hose design. Each of the two main lines has a T-junction part way along,  allowing for a direct connection to the third and fourth tyres, which accept or release air as needed.

That setup impressed me – fewer hoses to untangle, less gear to stash. So I pulled the trigger and now run both the Big Red Gear 12V Twin Head compressor and the optional Quad-Flate kit.

All in the name of long-term testing. I’ll start by timing inflation and deflation across a few scenarios – one tyre, two tyres, and all four – to see how the system handles real-world use.

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After that, the kit’s going into the 4×4-converted HiAce for an eight-week run to North Queensland, finishing with a celebratory photo at the tip of Cape York. Safe to say it’ll get a solid workout – and I’ll report back with the verdict, good, bad or otherwise.

Slower or not?

Here’s the theory I was told: pumping up two tyres at once with a single compressor doesn’t take twice as long as inflating one – and doing all four won’t take four times longer. In fact, it’s not even double the time of two tyres.

You see, the biggest bottleneck in any inflation setup is the tyre valve itself. Flow rates vary depending on the pressure in the tyre, so it’s tricky to pin down exact figures – but the restriction is always there. The fastest way to pump up a tyre is with the valve core removed, feeding air directly into the stem. But let’s be honest – that’s not something most people want to mess with. I know I don’t.

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The Big Red Gear compressor is rated to a maximum flow of 300L/min and 150psi. In reality, though, the actual flow rate depends on the pressure in the tyres – just like the airflow restriction at the valve, it’ll vary as you go.

Since the compressor pushes out more air than the tyre valve can take in, there’s naturally a bottleneck – and that restriction slows airflow through the system. One side effect of that is heat. The compressor, hoses and head unit all warm up under pressure, and the more resistance in the system, the hotter it gets. And excess heat? That’s never a good thing for long-term reliability.

Now split that airflow in two and inflate two tyres at once. Same air output, but with less restriction, less wasted pressure, and less heat – sounds like a better system already, right?

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Double it again and run all four tyres at once. With more outlets for the air to escape, you’re getting closer to the compressor’s maximum flow rate. That means lower system resistance, reduced heat buildup and, in theory, faster inflation times across the board.

Testing time – Inflation

That’s all the theory – now for the real-world results. Check out the table for the actual figures, inflating from a typical beach pressure of 20psi back up to a bitumen-ready 40psi.

I had grand plans to measure compressor temps, along with the chuck and Quad-Flate head unit before and after inflation… but like many good intentions, that testing went straight out the window.

Why didn’t I bother with precise temperature readings? Simple – it was easy enough to measure the starting temps before use, but once the compressor, chuck and Quad-Flate head unit warmed up, they stayed hot for long enough to throw off any consistent comparisons.

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That said, during testing, the compressor got warm after repeated use but never scalding – it stayed comfortable to handle. The only component that got too hot to touch was the four-way head unit, and that was after multiple back-to-back runs. In real-world use, you’re only inflating a set of tyres once – not running repeated test cycles.

The included carry pouch doubled as a heat shield and made hose disconnection easy even when things were warm. At no point did the thermal cut-out or over-current protection kick in. Given the compressor’s speed and short run times, I’d be confident inflating multiple vehicles without any trackside delays.

As the table shows, doubling the number of tyres didn’t double the time – enough proof for me that this setup saves valuable minutes trackside.

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To put it plainly: inflating one tyre from 20 to 40psi took 1 minute and 16 seconds. Multiply that by four and you’d expect a total of 5 minutes and 4 seconds. But with the Quad-Flate system, all four tyres were done in just 4 minutes and 3 seconds – saving nearly a full minute.

Not bad, eh?

The Big Red Gear compressor is quick on its own, but pair it with the twin-hose Quad-Flate system and it’s even quicker.

Inflation Times: 20psi to 40psi

Number of TyresTime Taken
One tyre1m 16s
Two tyres2m 14s
Four tyres4m 03s

Tested on 285/60R18 tyres (approx. 31.5-inch overall diameter).

Testing time – Deflation

Using the Quad-Flate hose kit, I repeated the same test in reverse – dropping pressures from 40psi down to 15psi with one, two and four tyres deflating at once.

One handy feature of the Quad-Flate system is its ability to handle uneven tyre pressures. I often run different front and rear pressures due to load balance – typically heavier at the rear. For example, on sand I might go down to 20psi at the rear and 15psi up front. The system can manage that easily, letting you monitor and isolate pressures as needed.

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The trick with this setup is to start by lowering all four tyres – with all four lines connected – to the higher of your target pressures. In the earlier example, that’s 20psi. The system will deflate until all four tyres hit 20psi, then stop.

From there, just disconnect the two rear lines, leaving the fronts hooked up, and drop them to 15psi. Job done.

It works the same way in reverse when inflating. Set your lower target pressure first – say 35psi for the front – and let the system run all four. When it cuts out, remove the front lines, bump the gauge to 40psi, and inflate the rears. Simple and efficient.

Another way

If you’re not keen on using the Quad-Flate kit for deflation, there’s always the tried-and-true method – screw-on automatic deflators. For comparison, I also included a set of Big Red Gear’s four-piece deflators in the test.

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The table shows deflation times from 40psi down to 20psi. Of course, your own start and finish pressures may vary, and factors like tyre size and vehicle weight will also affect results. But the differences between deflating one, two or four tyres at once clearly highlight just how much time you can save – and which method is most efficient.

Check out the table for the results – just note that I haven’t factored in the time it takes to walk around and screw on each of the four auto deflators. I timed a single tyre deflation and used that figure for the two- and four-tyre results with the autos, just for consistency.

With the Quad-Flate, I tested one, two, and four tyres as the system is designed to do. And here’s the kicker – it’s much faster than the auto deflators.

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One idea for Big Red Gear: a short 10cm hose would make the head unit easier to use as a stand-alone deflator on single tyres. A small tweak, but it’d be a handy one.  Let’s see if the mob at Big Red Gear are listening.

Deflation Times: 40psi to 20psi

Number of TyresQuad-Flate KitAuto Deflators
One tyre1m 29s3m 10s
Two tyres1m 37s3m 10s*
Four tyres1m 54s3m 10s*
*Auto deflator time based on a single-tyre measurement and applied to all tyre counts for comparison.

Tested on 285/60R18 tyres (approx. 31.5-inch overall diameter).

While this testing backs up the theory on faster inflation and deflation times, it’s no long-term durability test. Our trip to the Tip and back will clock up around 10,000km – with at least a quarter of that off-road.

I’ve got no idea how many times I’ll be adjusting tyre pressures along the way, or which method I’ll end up favouring. But rest assured, we’ll be putting the Big Red Gear inflation system through its paces – and I’ll report back not just from this big lap north, but from plenty of shorter local jaunts too.

Let’s see how it holds up in the long run.

All up, both the compressor and deflation kit performed flawlessly. I was especially impressed by the quality of the hoses – they roll and unroll easily without kinking, don’t get overly hot, and have more than enough length to reach all four wheels.

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The compressor itself is a solid bit of gear – it looks and feels well built, ran quieter than many units I’ve tested, and outperformed my expectations for both speed and ease of use.

While the unit features an automatic pressure cut-off, it can also be run in manual mode. There’s a built-in bleeder valve too, which makes it easy to fine-tune pressures or drop a few psi at a time. It also helps depressurise the system, so disconnecting the hoses is quick and fuss-free.

Overall, I rate the Big Red Gear setup as one of the best compressors I’ve used. The performance, build quality and thoughtful features set it apart. There’s no onboard air tank – but with inflation this quick, it simply doesn’t need one.

Twin Head Air Compressor – Specifications

Quad-Flate Digital Hose Kit – Specifications

Tweaked and tuned Triton Raider has arrived as the top-of-the-range model in Mitsubishi’s Triton ute range.

Not to be confused with the Ford Raider from the early 1990s, the Mitsubishi Triton Raider gets a range of upgrades in both styling and suspension.

Mechanically, the Triton Raider gets a new suspension package developed with Premcar; the same company responsible for the excellent suspension calibration on the new Nissan Navara which itself, is a product shared with the Mitsubishi ute.

At the front end, Premcar fitted new shock absorbers that include rebound springs internal rebound springs to help control the suspension at full compression for better ride and handling in rough conditions.

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This internal rebound spring technology was recently debuted on the new Navara where we found it to do an excellent job of controlling the ride.  The shocks in the Triton Raider are different to what is fitted to the Navara so we’ll have to wait until we drive the Raider before we can comment on them.

The upgraded suspension works in tune with Bridgestone AT002 all-terrain tyres, mounted to ROH ‘Assault alloy wheels. The tyres and suspension combine to give the Raider a 25mm ride height increase and also 20mm increased wheel track.

That’s the extent of the mechanical package but astatically the Raider gets model specific badging, a heavy-duty bash plate and specific sports bar and side protection bars with red highlights.

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Based on the previously top-of-the range Triton GSR ($64,590+ ORC), the Raider is already well equipped. The engine remains the 2.4-liter twin turbo diesel that puts out that puts out a claimed 470Nm and 150kW, backed by a six-speed automatic transmission and Mitsubishi’s renowned Super Select dual range 4×4 system.

The Triton Raider will be in dealers from May, 2026 with the price yet to be disclosed.

MORE Mitsubishi Triton News & Reviews
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Maddy Bockett is an Australian content creator and outdoor personality known for blending 4×4 adventure, gear insights and lifestyle content.

With around 128k followers on Instagram and 152k on TikTok, Maddy Bockett speaks authentically to a predominantly female audience about vehicle preparation, outdoor setups and getting the most out of touring gear. Her content focuses on making 4×4 and camping setups approachable, with fun, easy-to-follow guides that encourage confidence without overcomplicating the process.

A key feature of Maddy’s content is her Suzuki Jimny, which she regularly showcases through upgrades, packing strategies and setup optimisation for real road trips and camping experiences. Rather than focusing on extreme builds, her approach centres on how thoughtful configuration and quality gear can improve comfort, usability and capability for touring and outdoor use. This makes her content highly relevant to everyday adventurers planning practical trips around Australia.

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Maddy’s work aligns closely with Tuff Terrain’s brand pillars. She demonstrates built-for-Australia performance by showcasing gear on genuine Australian road trips and camping runs. Through real-world use, she highlights engineered toughness, showing how vehicle upgrades and accessories perform outside controlled environments.

Her content delivers real-world credibility, grounded in practical preparation and clear use-case demonstrations. Most importantly, her approachable delivery reinforces accessibility, helping a broad outdoor audience understand how to set up their vehicles and gear with confidence.

For Tuff Terrain customers, Maddy Bockett’s content shows how the right gear supports real adventures – practical, achievable and designed for the way Australians actually travel.

MORE Read more at Tuff Terrain

Uncle Pooly’s golden Toyota 79 Series LandCruiser has become one of the most recognisable builds on the Australian 4WD scene.

Designed for serious touring and tested across some of the country’s toughest terrain, the ute reflects a simple philosophy: build it tough, use it properly and rely on gear that performs when conditions get rough. At the centre of that off-road touring setup is Tuff Terrain gear, which Pooly regularly runs and tests across Australia’s harshest environments.

With more than 314,000 TikTok followers, 100,000 YouTube subscribers and 186,000 Instagram followers, Pooly has built a reputation for showcasing gear in real-world conditions rather than staged environments. His audience follows along for the builds, recoveries and track testing that come with pushing a vehicle across remote tracks and demanding terrain.

One area Pooly never compromises on is 4WD recovery gear. In fact, the partnership between Tuff Terrain and Pooly resulted in that co-created limited edition recovery kit, Uncle Pooly’s Ultimate Recovery Kit by Tuff Terrain. Available through Outback Equipment, it’s a permanent fixture in the back of the 79 Series, ready when traction disappears.

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Whether it’s deep sand, muddy climbs or technical tracks, having a complete recovery kit on hand can mean the difference between continuing the trip and waiting hours for help. “If you’re stuck in remote country, your recovery gear has to work first time,” Pooly says.

Tyre pressure management is another critical part of serious off-road touring. Pooly runs a Tuff Terrain Compressor paired with the brand’s Retractable Air Hose Reel, making it quick and easy to air down before tackling sand or rough tracks and air back up again when it’s time to hit the highway. The retractable setup keeps the hose neatly stored and ready to deploy, which is especially useful when you’re adjusting pressures multiple times throughout a trip.

The Cruiser itself is built to handle punishment, running reinforced suspension with a double-triangulated four-link setup, King shocks, heavy-duty bar work and sliders, Goodyear mud-terrain tyres and engine tuning designed to balance torque with reliability. Every element of the 79 Series build has been carefully planned to handle Australia’s demanding off-road conditions.

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But it’s not just the exterior that takes a beating. After long days on dusty tracks and muddy recoveries, protecting the interior of the well-known golden ute is just as important. That’s where Tuff Terrain’s 3D Floor Mats and Universal Seat Covers come into play. The deep-moulded mats help trap sand, mud and debris before it spreads through the cabin, while the heavy-duty seat covers protect factory upholstery from wet gear, dirt and the daily wear that comes with serious off-road use.

For Pooly, gear isn’t about show – it’s about reliability in real conditions. His content regularly sees the 79 tackling iconic Australian destinations including Cape York and the Simpson Desert, where equipment is pushed well beyond everyday driving. By breaking down builds, modifications and recovery techniques in an approachable way, Pooly has built a following that values practical knowledge just as much as inspiration.

For Tuff Terrain owners, seeing the gear used in real conditions offers something more valuable than marketing claims – real proof that the right 4WD touring setup can handle Australia’s toughest tracks with confidence.

MORE Read more at Tuff Terrain

In the world of 4WD touring content, authenticity matters. For creators TJ & Mac, that means building vehicles the way everyday off-roaders do – carefully selecting upgrades that genuinely improve performance, reliability and capability on the tracks Australians actually drive.

Across their popular YouTube channel and social platforms, TJ & Mac document the process of building capable touring vehicles, sharing practical insights that resonate with both experienced off-roaders and newcomers to the scene. With more than 188,000 YouTube subscribers and 85,000 Instagram followers, their audience has grown around a simple idea: show what works, explain why it works, and test it in real conditions.

A consistent feature across their builds is the use of Tuff Terrain gear, particularly when it comes to recovery equipment and air management systems. Whether preparing vehicles for tough tracks or dealing with the inevitable challenges of off-road travel, TJ & Mac rely on Tuff Terrain recovery gear for every recovery scenario, putting it to work in mud, sand and rocky terrain.

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Equally important is tyre pressure management – a critical factor in off-road capability. Before tackling sand or technical terrain, TJ & Mac routinely air down using Tuff Terrain air systems, and rely on Tuff Terrain compressors to reinflate tyres quickly and efficiently once they’re back on harder ground. It’s a simple but essential part of off-road touring, and one that demonstrates the importance of reliable equipment.

Their builds frequently centre around some of Australia’s most popular touring platforms, including the Toyota Hilux, Toyota LandCruiser and Ford Ranger. Rather than chasing extreme or unrealistic setups, TJ & Mac focus on practical modifications that deliver measurable improvements – suspension upgrades, recovery gear, and essential touring equipment that make vehicles more capable without sacrificing everyday usability.

One of the reasons their content resonates so strongly with the 4WD community is the way they document the entire process. Instead of presenting finished builds, they walk viewers through each stage – explaining the reasoning behind upgrade decisions, installation considerations and how different components contribute to overall capability.

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That hands-on approach naturally aligns with Tuff Terrain’s focus on engineered durability and real-world performance. Seeing the gear used in genuine off-road situations – from vehicle recoveries to tyre pressure adjustments before a track – gives viewers a clear understanding of how the equipment performs outside the showroom.

For the growing audience following TJ & Mac’s builds and adventures, the takeaway is simple: thoughtful upgrades and reliable equipment can transform a capable vehicle into a confident touring setup. And when those upgrades are tested in the real world, their value becomes clear.

As TJ & Mac continue to build, test and tour across Australia, Tuff Terrain gear remains a key part of their recovery and air management setup – proving that the right equipment doesn’t just support the vehicle, it supports the entire adventure.

MORE Read more at Tuff Terrain

A proper recovery kit is an essential piece of gear for any 4×4 enthusiast, and Tuff Terrain offers a selection of kits to suit different levels of off-road ambition. 

Off-road travel exposes vehicles to sand, mud, rocky terrain and steep tracks, and even the most capable rigs can become stuck or encounter obstacles. A recovery kit gives drivers the tools to manage these situations safely and efficiently, without improvising under pressure.

Straps, shackles, ropes, tree straps, winch accessories, and tyre deflation tools are all critical, and having them organised and accessible can make the difference between a smooth recovery and a stressful, risky situation.

Tuff Terrain Bush Kit Lite

The Tuff Terrain Bush Kit Lite is a compact, practical recovery kit for new and casual 4x4ers, providing all the essential tools for safe off-road recoveries without unnecessary complexity. 

Designed for bush and beach use, it brings together straps, shackles, a winch ring, and a dampener into a single organised bag, keeping gear protected, easy to access, and ready for immediate use. Every component is load-rated to suit vehicles within their specified working limits, giving confidence in standard recovery scenarios.

Safety and efficiency are at the core of the Bush Kit Lite. Soft shackles, a recovery hitch, gloves, and a winch dampener reduce the risk of injury and equipment damage, while the organised bag eliminates fumbling or misplacing items. Lightweight and compact, the kit stores easily in most vehicles, making it ideal for weekend trips, touring, or spontaneous off-road adventures.

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Tuff Terrain Bush Kit Pro

The Tuff Terrain Bush Kit Pro is a professional-grade recovery kit built for serious off-road enthusiasts. 

Designed to handle everything from soft recoveries to full winching operations, it combines premium-rated straps, ropes, shackles and winch accessories in a single heavy-duty package. Packed into a rugged recovery bag, all components are organised for quick access, protected in transit, and ready for immediate use.

The kit includes multiple 17T soft shackles in sheathed and braided designs, a 9T kinetic rope, a 3m static rope, extension and tree trunk straps, winch rings, a winch dampener, recovery gloves, and a soft shackle recovery hitch. This combination covers a wide range of recovery scenarios, from simple pulls to complex triple-line winch operations. Each item is engineered for high load capacity, durability, and safe operation, while soft shackles and protective accessories reduce the risk of injury or equipment damage.

The Bush Kit Pro is ideal for use in sand, mud, rocky terrain, or remote bush tracks where preparation and reliability are critical. The organised heavy-duty bag keeps gear secure, easy to transport, and immediately accessible, removing the need to chase scattered equipment or compromise safety under pressure.

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Tuff Terrain Deluxe 12K Recovery & Air Down Kit

The Tuff Terrain Deluxe 12K Recovery & Air Down Kit is a comprehensive solution for off-road drivers who want to manage two critical tasks in one package: Vehicle recovery and tyre deflation. 

It combines ropes, straps, shackles and winch accessories with quick-connect tyre deflators, allowing drivers to prepare for challenging terrain and handle recoveries efficiently. All items pack into a single heavy-duty bag for easy transport and immediate availability.

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For recovery, the kit includes a 9m 12,000kg kinetic rope for snatch pulls, providing controlled stretch to store and release energy smoothly, and a 3m 28,900kg static rope that maintains firm tension for bridging or extending anchor points. Five soft shackles rated at 15,000kg, in sheathed and braided designs, allow fast, lightweight connections without the weight or sharp edges of metal shackles. 

An alloy winch ring helps redirect ropes and can double pulling power, while a recovery hitch provides a smooth attachment point for soft shackles. Supporting accessories include a 12T tree trunk strap, a 5T extension strap, a winch dampener, and recovery gloves.

The air-down component features four quick-connect tyre deflators with preset pressures, enabling consistent and precise tyre deflation for sand or soft terrain. Combining recovery and tyre preparation gear in one organised kit reduces setup time and ensures drivers are equipped for common off-road challenges.

MORE Recovery kits from Tuff Terrain!

Modern touring setups rely heavily on 12V power. Fridges, camp lighting, device charging and camera gear all need electricity and nobody wants to flatten their starting battery in the middle of a remote trip.

That’s where solar panels and solar blankets for 4WDs come into play. Combined with a dual-battery system, solar allows your auxiliary battery to keep charging while you’re camped, meaning you can stay off-grid longer without running the engine.

Here’s how 4WD solar systems work, what gear you’ll need and how to set one up for touring 👇

MORE Tuff Terrain awnings: Rugged and convenient shelter for 4×4 touring

Why solar is ideal for 4WD touring

Solar panels convert sunlight into usable power that feeds directly into your auxiliary battery.
For touring setups, the biggest advantage is simple: your battery keeps charging while you’re parked. That means you can run gear like:

Without needing to idle the vehicle or drive every day just to keep your batteries alive. For longer remote trips, solar becomes one of the most useful upgrades you can add to a touring setup.

The basic gear you need for a 4WD solar setup

Most touring vehicles use a fairly simple system made up of four key components.

Many systems also include a battery monitor, which helps track power usage and remaining battery capacity.

Solar blankets vs Solar panels

When choosing solar for a 4WD, most travellers choose between solar panels or solar blankets.

Panels are popular because they’re durable and efficient. Solar blankets use flexible solar cells that fit into a compact bag, and they’re particularly popular with touring setups where storage space is limited. Outback Equipment has a large range of solar blankets and panels, including Tuff Terrain Hardkorr, Voltech, Sphere and Companion. Browse range HERE.

Solar panel pros

  • Strong aluminium frame
  • High efficiency
  • Easy to angle toward the sun

Solar panel cons

  • Bulkier to store
  • Slightly heavier

Solar blanket pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Easy to pack in drawers or behind seats
  • Large surface area

Solar blanket cons

  • Less durable than rigid panels
  • Must be laid flat on the ground

How much solar do you need for a 4WD setup?

Your solar setup should be matched to how much power your gear uses each day. Typical touring gear consumption looks something like this:

ApplianceApprox. usage
12V fridge1-3 amps/hour
LED camp lights0.5 amps
Phone charging1 amp
Laptop or camera charging3-5 amps

A typical touring setup will use 40-70Ah per day. A 200W solar panel or solar blanket can usually produce around 50-70Ah per day in good sunlight, which is enough to keep most setups running. Travellers running larger fridges, inverters or extra accessories may choose 300W or more of solar capacity.

How to set up solar at camp

Solar systems are quick to deploy once you arrive at camp. A typical setup looks like this:

  1. Park the vehicle in shade if possible.
  2. Place the solar panel or solar blanket in direct sunlight.
  3. Connect the panel to your battery system using the Anderson plug.
  4. Adjust the angle of the panel during the day if needed.

Because the solar panel sits away from the vehicle, you can keep your 4WD parked in shade while the panel stays in full sun.

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Why a good solar regulator matters

The solar regulator is responsible for managing the power coming from your panels.

Most modern touring setups use MPPT regulators, which are significantly more efficient than older PWM designs. They allow solar panels to produce better charging performance — particularly during cloudy conditions or early morning and late afternoon sunlight. Many solar kits come with a regulator pre-installed, making them easier to connect straight to your battery system.

A simple upgrade that extends your time off-grid

For touring vehicles running fridges, lighting and electronics, solar quickly becomes one of the most useful upgrades you can add.

Solar panels and solar blankets allow your 4WD to generate power anywhere you camp, helping keep batteries topped up without relying on the vehicle’s alternator. With the right setup, your solar system quietly charges your battery throughout the day — letting you stay off-grid longer while keeping all the essentials powered.

MORE All things Tuff Terrain!

Anyone who has driven onto soft sand with road tyre pressures will know the feeling – the vehicle bogs down almost immediately.

That’s where airing down your tyres comes in. Lowering tyre pressure is one of the most effective techniques in off-road driving, improving traction on sand, mud and rocky terrain while also smoothing out rough tracks. Using a 4WD tyre deflator makes the process quick and consistent, allowing you to reduce tyre pressure accurately before hitting challenging terrain.

Why lowering tyre pressure improves off-road traction

Reducing tyre pressure increases the tyre’s footprint by allowing it to flex and spread out. This larger contact patch helps the tyre grip loose terrain instead of digging into it.

On sand, lower pressures help the vehicle float across the surface rather than sinking. On rocky tracks, softer tyres mould around obstacles, improving grip and reducing harsh impacts through the suspension. Even on corrugated gravel roads, slightly reduced pressures can make a noticeable difference by helping tyres absorb bumps rather than skipping across the surface.

However, pressures shouldn’t be dropped too far. Excessively low PSI can increase the risk of sidewall damage or even cause a tyre to unseat from the rim. Heavier vehicles carrying camping gear, rooftop tents or drawers typically require slightly higher pressures than lighter setups.

When should you deflate your tyres?

Most experienced four-wheel drivers lower tyre pressures whenever terrain becomes loose or uneven. Typical situations where tyre deflation helps include:

Before returning to sealed roads, tyres should always be reinflated to highway pressures.

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Types of 4WD tyre deflators

There are several different styles of tyre deflators available – Outback Equipment has a full range of products including brands like ARB, Campboss, Tuff Terrain, iCheck and RAXAR – each designed to make airing down faster and easier on the tracks.

Manual tyre deflators: Manual deflators are one of the simplest options. They typically remove the valve core from the tyre, allowing air to escape quickly while a pressure gauge lets you monitor PSI as it drops. They’re reliable and affordable, but they require you to stay beside the tyre while it deflates.

Preset automatic tyre deflators: Preset deflators allow you to set a target PSI before attaching them to the tyre valve. Once connected, they automatically release air until the tyre reaches the selected pressure. Products like Tuff Terrain Quick Connect Tyre Deflators fall into this category. These units allow drivers to dial in their preferred pressure, attach them to the valve stems and let the tyres deflate automatically. Because all four tyres can be deflated at the same time, they can save several minutes when preparing for sand driving or technical tracks.

Multi-tyre deflation systems: Multi-hose systems connect to all four tyres simultaneously using hoses, equalising pressure across the vehicle. These systems are particularly popular with touring setups, as they ensure all tyres reach the same pressure evenly while speeding up both inflation and deflation. Tuff Terrain has units available with both two and four valves.

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Common tyre deflation mistakes

Lowering tyre pressures improves traction, but there are a few common mistakes that can cause problems.

Why a good air compressor matters

Once the off-road section ends, tyres need to be reinflated before driving on sealed roads.

Portable 4WD air compressors make this easy, allowing drivers to restore highway pressures quickly before continuing their journey. High-output compressors such as the Tuff Terrain V4 Air Compressor are designed to inflate larger off-road tyres efficiently, which is especially useful for vehicles running 33–35-inch rubber.

Features like long air hoses and quick-connect fittings also make it easier to reach every tyre without constantly repositioning the compressor.

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A simple off-road trick every 4WD owner should know

Airing down your tyres is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve off-road capability. Better traction, a smoother ride and reduced strain on the drivetrain all make it worthwhile.

With the right tyre deflators and air compressor in your recovery kit, adjusting pressures only takes a few minutes – and can make the difference between cruising through difficult terrain or reaching for the recovery gear.

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JUMP AHEAD

Part 1: Settling back into the Musso

We’ll never knock back an opportunity to drive the Musso. It may be a bit dated, but it’s immediately familiar, comfortable, and easy to settle into – like an old pair of jeans.

There are no gimmicks, no surprises in the way it handles, and no need for a crash course to figure out how it operates. Buttons and dials are where you’d expect them to be (strangely becoming a rare occurrence these days), and the system’s UI is simple. The Musso consistently flies under the radar in the dual-cab segment, and it probably shouldn’t … there’s a reason it won our Best 4×4 Ute of the Year (Under $60K) award last year.

Now sold under the KGM name following the SsangYong rebrand in 2025, the vehicle remains mechanically familiar. Power comes from a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder, producing 133kW at 4000 rpm and 420Nm from 1600–2600 rpm. That’s 20Nm more than the standard Musso, giving this XL V a little extra shove.

Delivered through a six-speed Aisin automatic and a part-time four-wheel-drive system with low and high range, the setup is smooth and predictable on both bitumen and rough tracks. An auto-locking rear differential and tyre pressure monitoring system come standard, adding confidence off-road.

The XL V also adds a longer tub, stretching to 1600mm – an extra 300 mm over the standard model. That provides an additional 251 litres of rear tub capacity, while the wheelbase is 110 mm longer. Convenient tie-down points combined with the extra space make it a cavernous, simply designed tray, ideal for loading camping gear and tools. Our long-termer is equipped with a soft tonneau cover (a $790 optional extra), so you wouldn’t want to leave anything valuable in the tray when unsupervised.

On paper, the Musso is impressively practical. It has a GVM of 2980kg, towing capacity of up to 3500kg, front and rear axle limits of 1400kg and 1850kg, and a payload of 880kg. This test example rides on Nexen N’Priz RH7 255/60R18 tyres, which strike a balance between on- and off-road comfort.

Our first few months with the Musso saw it tackling trails and highways within Victoria. On rugged tracks, it feels steady and dependable. Its part-time 4×4 system, combined with solid ground clearance and healthy torque, makes rutted trails and moderate climbs straightforward. The chassis and suspension are robust, though it reaches its limits earlier than some competitors – the HiLux, for example – when tracks get more serious. On-road, it remains composed, with the longer wheelbase providing stability on highways.

MORE Australia’s cheapest 4×4 utes in 2026: Budget dual-cab guide
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Inside, the cabin is straightforward and intuitive. The heated and ventilated front seats provide comfort on long drives, while the driving position is excellent and supportive, helping reduce fatigue on extended trips. The dual 12.3-inch screens – one for the instrument cluster and one for infotainment – are crisp and responsive.

Some compromises remain: there’s still no wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and the sound system maxes out too early. We’ll take a deeper dive into these nit-picks in later instalments. Even so, the interior leans toward practicality and usability, with robust controls, good visibility, and a layout that keeps things simple.

At $53,000, the Musso Ultimate XL V delivers a generous list of standard equipment:

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: the Musso represents excellent value for long-term ownership.

Part 2: Beach, ‘burbs and family fun

We’ve had a busy few weeks with our Musso, taking it on a coastal road trip, running the kids around day-to-day, and squeezing in a bit of off-road fun.

Through it all, including the long stretches on bitumen to the Peninsula, the Musso remains remarkably composed on the road. The stable suspension and well-cushioned seats in the Ultimate trim make long drives feel effortless, and, despite its size, the Musso never feels intimidating on busy streets. That said, we recently lined it up against an MGU9 for an upcoming comparison, and the MG seemed to dwarf it side-by-side – a reminder that the Musso’s tyres and stance play a big part in how it feels on the road.

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Those stock tyres did struggle on some of the tougher sections when we took it off-road, so anyone planning to push it further off-road would benefit from a set of better all-terrain rubber. Still, the Musso handles moderate trails with confidence, and its simple 4×4 system proves capable and easy to use.

Family life is equally easy. Installing a child seat is straightforward, with two ISOFIX points on the rear outboard seats that are quickly accessed by folding the seats forward. In XLV trim, there’s plenty of space back there too. Another benefit of the XLV is an extra 300mm of tub length, stretching to a cavernous 1600mm. The long tray has been handy for hauling tools and materials, though the four factory tie-down points sit quite low, so you sometimes need contortions worthy of Inspector Gadget to secure a load properly.

There are a few more minor frustrations. The infotainment touchscreen is basic and offers almost nothing if CarPlay or Android Auto aren’t connected, and it is laggy when switching from exterior cameras (when reversing, for example) back to the main display. 

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Android Auto users know this common annoyance all too well: Wireless Android Auto is missing despite wireless Apple CarPlay being standard, so a cable is required. A flow-on problem from this is that the phone holder tray is tiny, so the phone will often slide off when cornering. Most of the time, the phone ends up in the centre console or cup holder while plugged in. The Musso definitely feels a bit old-school here.

Still, despite these handful of quirks – which are easy enough to work around – the Musso remains a no-frills vehicle that’s practical, comfortable, and easy to live with, both for the work week and weekend adventures.

MORE Musso news and reviews!

Easter presents a fantastic opportunity for adventure, especially for those with a passion for camping and exploring the rugged beauty of Australia through four-wheel driving.

Imagine navigating the thrilling, rough tracks of the outback, feeling the fresh breeze as you cruise along the pristine beaches of K’gari, or embarking on a daring expedition into the majestic Victorian High Country. The stunning landscapes serve as a breath-taking backdrop to your escapade, but to truly make the most of your journey, having the right gear is absolutely crucial.

With thoughtful preparation and the right tools at your disposal, your Easter escape can transform into a memorable adventure filled with excitement and discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, we’re here to guide you with a curated list of must-have items that will ensure your holiday is nothing short of amazing. Gear up for an unforgettable experience this Easter.

JUMP AHEAD

Lighting and entertainment

When the sun goes down being able to see your campsite is a priority, and portable lighting is essential

A decent head torch that is rechargeable and has red LED night vision helps when eating in the dark, so you won’t blind anyone when talking to them. Plus, a couple of flood beam lights will illuminate the campsite. If you don’t like bugs, lights with a red light colour option don’t attract them as much as white or yellow lights, and they keep your night vision working.

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A drone is a fantastic tool for capturing the epic moments of your adventure, and a dedicated digital camera will produce much better images than a mobile phone.

A portable Bluetooth speaker will keep the tunes blasting, and it’s a good idea to download a few playlists onto your music device. Without mobile coverage, streaming music isn’t feasible. If you want to avoid technology, why not bring along a puzzle book and some games to enjoy, like UNO or Yahtzee?

Whether you’re off to a sun-soaked beach or setting up camp by a sparkling river, make sure to pack your trusty fishing rod and tackle box because what’s better than a day filled with laughter, sunshine and the thrill of reeling in the big one? And remember, depending on the state you’re fishing in, you might also need a fishing licence.

Cooking

A small, lightweight barbecue lets you easily cook up a feast, whether it’s a morning fry-up or a slow-cooked roast dinner. Consider flat-pack options, as they are easy to assemble and take up little space in your vehicle.

A dual-zone fridge/freezer keeps your food fresh, drinks cold and ice cream solid without the hassle of ice. At the same time, a decent icebox is excellent for keeping the drinks icy cold for up to three days and providing ice blocks for your whisky and dry. I say decent because some cheap ice boxes are like an Esky; the ice melts quickly.

Sitting around or cooking on a campfire is synonymous with bush camping in Australia, but more destinations require you to use a constructed fireplace or something portable.

If fires can’t be lit or you prefer to cook with gas, there are plenty of propane/butane/LPG stoves to choose from, and prices range from $20 to more than $500. Speaking of pots and pans, lightweight and stackable is the way to go.

Comfort and convenience

When it comes to camping comfort, a cosy chair is non-negotiable! After countless adventures, we’ve discovered that everyone has their unique favourite when it comes to camp chairs.

Picture this: a flexible table that serves multiple purposes, from meal prep and dining to hosting a fun card game night. We recommend one made from durable aluminium, which can handle hot pots without a hitch.

If you’re working with a 12V setup, a DC-DC charger paired with a lithium battery is your go-to for reliable power. But for a hassle-free option, consider a portable power station; they make life so much simpler these days. Plus, don’t forget about solar panels or blankets to keep your batteries charged and your adventures powered up.

Now, let’s talk about privacy. An ensuite tent is a game-changer for those essential moments – whether it’s for the porta-potty, changing clothes or enjoying a shower in the great outdoors. And for those who crave instant hot water, a quality portable hot tap heats things up quickly when hooked up to LPG. If you’re looking for alternatives, a compact water heater will get the job done just as effectively.

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Navigation and communication

Getting to your destination without getting lost is the name of the game, and a off-road GPS helps you navigate remote areas without relying on a phone signal.

Please don’t rely on Apple or Google Maps, as they could lead you up the garden path. Having paper maps that cover the areas you are heading to is a great backup. Other helpful apps for adventures include Wikicamps, CamperMate and Newtracs.

A UHF is handy for vehicle-to-vehicle communication. A 5W handheld unit is great for keeping an eye on the kids or guiding someone when they’re parking a camper trailer. A small satellite communicator lets you send SOS messages to emergency contacts if needed.

A true game changer for adventurers is Starlink, an innovative and portable high-speed satellite internet system developed and operated by SpaceX. This cutting-edge technology opens up new possibilities for connectivity in remote locations where traditional internet options may be limited or non-existent.

With Starlink, travellers and outdoor enthusiasts can easily stream their favourite shows on Netflix, stay in touch with friends and family through video calls, share their adventures on social media, or perform any other online activities they typically enjoy at home.

This advancement transforms the way people engage with the world while pursuing their adventurous lifestyles, making it easier than ever to stay connected and entertained wherever you go.

For the kids

Easter is just around the corner and is a magical time of year that transforms campsites into a cheerful hub as kids enjoy whimsical Easter egg hunts.

Imagine the delight on children’s faces as they scurry around the bush searching for those delightful, colourful Easter eggs, each one waiting to bring a radiant smile and a sense of triumph when discovered.

You can’t overlook mouth-watering hot cross buns. These iconic treats, oozing with rich, aromatic spices and finished with a shiny, sweet glaze, are delicious and evoke warmth and comfort, making them perfect for a cosy breakfast. Picture them freshly toasted on the grill on the fire, their intoxicating aroma wafting through the air as you savour each delightful bite.

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The magical Easter Bunny, that whimsical figure of wonder, deserves a moment to breathe after a busy day of hiding eggs. Once the last egg has been tucked away, it’s only fitting that this enchanting creature unwinds with wonderfully refreshing drinks. As you gather around the crackling fire with your family, make sure you’re prepared for an extraordinary celebration.

Are you worried about the potential hazards of glass bottles breaking during your adventures? Off Track Wines has thoughtfully curated a stunning selection of premium wines conveniently packaged in practical, portable cans – ideally suited for your Easter break.

Recovery and safety

Looking to make the most of your Easter getaway? Some of the most stunning destinations require a bit of preparation, like adjusting your tyre pressures to suit varying conditions.

A dual-function tyre inflator is a handy solution for inflating and deflating multiple tyres at once, making adventures smoother and more efficient. You’ll also need a reliable air compressor to restore tyre pressure—whether a portable kit or one mounted in your vehicle, it comes in useful on any trip. A set of tyre plugs can help you fix a punctured tyre without having to remove the wheel. When heading off-road or tackling challenging terrain, you might also come across obstacles that require vehicle recovery.

In these situations, having the right gear can make recovery much easier and help keep you safe. A comprehensive recovery kit includes all the essential tools and equipment needed to get a vehicle out of trouble efficiently.

To further boost your recovery capabilities, consider adding traction boards to your setup. They provide excellent grip and support, making it easier to free a vehicle stuck in mud, sand, or snow. Used alongside a recovery kit, they help you handle unexpected challenges on any trip.

It’s also worth upgrading from traditional steel bow shackles to rated soft shackles. These are significantly lighter and come with enhanced safety features, reducing the risk of injury if a break occurs. By investing in quality recovery gear, you’ll ensure a smoother, safer off-roading experience, no matter what obstacles you encounter along the way.

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Well-stocked first aid kits should always be essential components of your preparedness setup. These kits not only provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or emergencies but also ensure that you are adequately equipped to deal with potentially life-threatening situations, such as snake bites.

Having these items easily accessible can significantly increase your chances of staying safe and managing any unforeseen circumstances effectively. Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness, exploring remote areas or simply preparing for unexpected events, taking the time to prepare these kits can be invaluable. Remember, first aid preparedness is a critical part of any survival plan.

If your Easter adventure leads you to a remote and picturesque destination, having a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) becomes absolutely essential. In situations where lives might be at risk due to unforeseen circumstances, the PLB serves as a vital safety tool.

Accommodation and shelter

A good night’s sleep is not just a luxury, it’s a vital part of any outdoor adventure.

To ensure you wake up refreshed and ready for the day’s adventures, invest in a high-quality swag or a spacious rooftop tent. Both options offer maximum comfort and reliable protection against the unpredictable elements of nature.

When choosing the right shelter, look for durable, easy-to-set-up designs that suit your style of camping; whether you prefer something simple and budget-friendly or a more innovative setup that speeds up pitching and packing.

You can also enhance your camp with a 270-degree awning. It provides plenty of shade during hot afternoons and reliable cover in the rain, making your campsite comfortable and enjoyable no matter what the weather throws at you.

MORE How to prepare for your next 4×4 trip