The Automobiles Blog

Entry Point 24

The Automobiles Blog

Author

Charlotte Whitaker

Key Apps & Maps for Finding Off-Road Trails

Every great off-road journey begins with a good plan—and that starts with knowing where you can (and can’t) go. Whether you’re tackling a multi-day expedition or looking for a hidden weekend trail, having the right GPS for 4×4 travel and digital tools in your pocket can mean the difference between adventure and misadventure. Today’s best Read More

Offline Navigation Apps Every Off-Roader Needs

It starts with confidence—until you hit a fork in the trail and your phone says, “No service.” Suddenly, your route vanishes, your GPS freezes, and you’re left guessing which way to turn. If you’re heading into remote terrain, relying on standard mobile maps is a gamble. What you need are off-road nav apps that keep Read More

What Is Overlanding? A Beginner’s Gear Checklist

There’s a certain thrill that comes with taking the road less travelled—especially when that road is a dusty track winding through remote wilderness. That’s the essence of overlanding: self-reliant travel to remote destinations, where the journey is just as important as the destination. But if you’re a beginner, the idea of heading off-grid with nothing Read More

How to Pack Efficiently for a 7-Day Overland Trip
Charlotte Whitaker April 30, 2025

You’re heading off-grid for seven days of off-road exploration. There’s excitement in the air—until you realise the boot is full, your fridge won’t shut, and you’ve forgotten your recovery tracks. Sound familiar? Packing for an extended overland trip isn’t about bringing everything—it’s about bringing the right things. Whether you’re navigating the Flinders Ranges or cruising Read More

Choosing the Right Tyres for Your Terrain
Charlotte Whitaker April 28, 2025

Your tyres are the only contact between your vehicle and the earth beneath it. Whether you’re cruising through gravel trails, crawling over rocks, or tackling thick mud, the wrong tyres can turn a good trip into a risky ordeal. Picking the best 4×4 tyres isn’t about brand loyalty or tread patterns alone—it’s about matching the Read More

Best Winches for Off-Road Recovery in 2025
Charlotte Whitaker April 25, 2025

You’re halfway up a muddy incline. Your tyres are spinning. The trail that looked doable five minutes ago now looks like it might have the last laugh. This is where the right winch isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential. Choosing the best off-road winch in 2025 can mean the difference between continuing your adventure and calling Read More

Weight Distribution Tips for Fully Loaded Rigs
Charlotte Whitaker April 19, 2025

Ever feel your rig sway more than usual when cornering or find the rear sagging under the load of gear? You’re not alone. Improper weight distribution is one of the most common issues in overlanding setups, and it can significantly impact safety, vehicle handling, and even fuel efficiency. Whether you’re packing for a weekend away Read More

The Complete Guide to Snatch Straps & Shackles
Charlotte Whitaker April 18, 2025

The tyres are sunk, the mud is deep, and your momentum is gone. In moments like these, snatch straps and shackles can be your quickest way back on track—if you know how to use them. These tools look deceptively simple, but when misused, they can become downright dangerous. Whether you’re overlanding solo or travelling in Read More