Safety Items for Solo Travel?

[CurtStyler]

Thanks again all.

For the CB I will probably get the Midland 75-822. I like that you have the option of making it portable. I know the range is pretty low when it's portable but it's still a nice feature. I had a Cobra 29LX a few years ago that had great quality and range but was huge. I think the Midland will be a good mix of quality and range.

I like the GoTreads. The reviews I have read all say they work great. I'm not sure if the Maxtrax are worth 3x the cost of GoTreads. That said I know Maxtrax are like the "Kleenex" of traction mats, great reputation and there's a reason everyone buys them. Plus they allow for making a ramp that might come in use for my Outback. I don't have the approach/departure angles of most trucks so if I come across an obstacle it's good to have that option.

Now for roof storage. I'm getting the idea I need something up there. I traced out the measurements in my trunk for my spare and it won't fit in the cubby hole where the old donut was. There's just not room inside, it would displace my cooler in my trunk. So roof it is. I can either drop it right on the roof or get a basket. Some of the cargo boxees are large enough to fit my tire (The tire is basically a 29x29x8 box) but they are all pretty costly. I can get a cheap basket for under $100. My ideal roof rack would be the Rhino Rack platform rack.

http://www.amazon.com/Rhino-Rack-Pi...TF8&qid=1450025792&sr=1-9&keywords=rhino+rack

That would give me plenty of room for additional storage boxes, a mounting spot for lights, the spare and leave open the option for an RTT in the future. I may go with the cheap basket for now. Something to hold the tire, Maxtrax and a spare gas can.

Which bring me to fuel. I do still want the option of bringing fuel. I get about 24-29 mpg at the moment. If I drop a few when fully loaded even if it's 22 MPG I would still get around 400 miles per tank. It's just more of a mental thing to have some extra gas with me, especially when I get up to Alaska. A jerry can would get me between 100-120 miles of peace of mind which would be great.

 

[Sabre]

Not that im suggesting or recommending you not get your ham licence, but in an emergency you don't need one to it operate it. And if you plan on getting certified, why not start going that way with your equipment?

This is absolutely incorrect. There is no lawful way to transmit on any amateur frequency without a license. Please don't spread this misinformation.

Of course the Technician license is easy to get and no one interested in this hobby should be discouraged from pursuing it.

 

[Regcabguy]

The tire plug kit is a must and if you go with a Viair portable pump go with the 100% duty cycle. I bought the one that must be shut down to "rest" for 15 minutes before resuming use

 

[4x4junkie]

Huh. That's pretty contrary to what I've heard about that unit. I know the 510XL is a tank, and I picked it up for $40, but I've read pretty decent reviews about that Cobra, which is why I was considering it personally. Do you have experience with it that suggests why it's such a poor choice?

Even the 510 is only really good for listening, it won't reach out and touch very far.

I've talked similar distances on a 510XL as I have on a 148GTL and many of the various Galaxy radios (5-10 miles, much further if I have a little elevation). Obviously the 510XL doesn't have SSB, but for AM they're definitely as good as anything else... Nice loud audio and (most important of all) very good clarity. If you're having range issues with a 510, I'd be looking at the antenna or it's installation as being the issue.

As for the Cobra 75, I've installed a couple for friends (before any of us knew better), and continue to endure frequently the misery of trying to listen to someone who talks on one (unfortunately they are popular, but not for their performance).
The built-in microphone is very low quality (and you can't simply swap it for another (better) mic without doing major surgery to the unit). You could make your 510 sound right about the same by putting a bunch of wool socks and a plastic bag over the mic. It's receiver is also very noisy. Their selling point is the all-in-one aspect, but IMO it gives up FAR too much performance to that novelty (the parts being made so small to cram them all inside the mic is another possibility for the poor sound quality).
You can add to that the issue of the knobs being way too easy to bump the adjustment of... I've lost track how many times we lost touch with someone in the group because they accidentally bumped their volume knob or maxed out the squelch.

WRT WX radios what I've found is that in remote areas there isn't much WX band reception anyway. Anything in the VHF band (which WX is) is going to be Line-of-sight so if you aren't within sight of a tower you're not likely to get much reception.

It's not that strict of line-of-sight... VHF signals are able to reflect off mountainsides, as well as crest over a hill via what is known as the "knife-edge" effect. More often than not (at least here in the west coast states) I'm able to receive at least one WX channel from wherever it is I'm parked (maybe 15% of the time I won't be able to receive anything at all, usually when down in a deep canyon). Of course this isn't on a CB WX receiver, this is using an actual VHF radio connected to a (much closer to resonant) VHF mag-mount antenna on the vehicle roof.

 

[ramonortiz55]

Yes to the spare. No one ever complained about having good emergency kit.

This is the plug kit you need in your life:
http://www.amazon.com/Safety-Seal-S...F8&qid=1449858423&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+seal

I've had mine for...15 years? Most definitely has paid for itself time and time again. I really like it because in the time it takes to find a tire shop and go there, I can use this plug kit and sort it out. Job done and you are on your way. Also with a lot of shops charging $15~20/plug, this thing pays for itself in 3 trips. Heck it makes me money. My neighbors trade me a 6 pack/growler/big pack of cheap beer to plug their tire.

Air compressor, many flavors out there. You can definitely get a smaller one since you aren't running giant dumb tires. I keep a cheapo one in my DD. Slow, but she works. ARB and Viair seem to be good. I've had the MV-50/MF-1050 units. Never could get them to NOT suck.

Speaking of which, bring your big breaker bar, a couple of sockets, and your torque wrench. If you have to replace a tire, those tools are far superior to a lug wrench.

Mattrax might be a good idea in a vehicle like the Subaru. You aren't gonna be burying it or getting into ridic terrain. I think Southeast Overland is running a sale on them. That and a couple pieces of wood. You can use em for bridging (like a 8"x8" block of wood) or to add stability to a jack or whatever.

One thing I do in my small car on trips, I get a 2.5 gallon zip lock and put my 2 gal gas can in it. Cheap and easy way to carry an extra fuel without hanging jugs off the side of your vehicle or having it spill inside your car.

Bypass any thought on a hand winch. They are super scary, dangerous, and have limited reach.

Have your navigation game on point.

I think you are in good shape. Make sure you take plenty of pictures!

Was looking for a good tire plug kit, thanks for the recommendation.

Here's my suggestions:
.
Vehicle recovery/safety related
Maxtrax - Better than any of the competition. I'd go for 4 if you can. One for each drive wheel.
Quality tow strap. Take 2. Trust me you'll be glad.
Hilift Jack - too many uses beside tire changing. Can be used as a "come-along" in a pinch if you get stuck and don't have a winch
ARB Speedy seal kit
Good recovery points on the frame of your Subaru (front and rear).
Extra Fuel
2M radio. A CB at the very least but a 2M will have much better range if you need help in remote locations.
Bottle Jack.
Spare fuses
Appropriate tools for field repairs.
.
Personal Safety related
Spot Device is a great idea.
Personal Firearm (if you're not opposed to guns). Chances are you'll never need it but you can never be too prepared when travelling alone in remote locations.
Space Blanket
Fire Starting kit
Extra Water
Emergency Food supply (energy bars etc that can just stay in a small bin until an emergency).
Quality Flashlight/batteries

Thanks for the list.

Any space blanket good enough? Or is there a specific brand, type, etc?

 

[thethePete]

4x4junkie, thanks for the insight on the CB. I hadn't heard that about the Cobra. I knew what I had was stout, but I figured it would be a lateral move. I have a crappy antenna, so I'm sure that's 80% of my issue.

You also highlighted the reasons behind my wanting to step to a VHF radio.

 

[1Louder]

CB is pretty much worthless. Yeah you might get lucky and find someone but you can't rely on that. You will get to listen to lots of people with 50,000 watt stations says "AUDIO! AUDIO! Hey Gibberjabber it's blah blah down here in Alabammy"

Ham you can find repeaters and talk to someone hundreds of miles away who might be able to actually help you. Invest in a radio with APRS and you can see where others may be near by (Also need APRS) and folks can track you online for free. Otherwise if you are that concerned about being able to get help then get a Delorme InReach with the basic safety plan and you are good to go. The only time I run a CB is when folks within our group don't have HAM. You can get a good name brand radio Kenwood or Yaesu for $150.00 for 2M. http://www.hamradio.com/detail.cfm?pid=h0-010078 Antenna costs are comparable to a good CB antenna. My favorite radio is the Kenwood TM-710G ($549) at the moment. Significant investment but very easy to use and has APRS. http://www.hamradio.com/detail.cfm?pid=H0-012910

I used this service to study and it worked great for me. http://www.hamradiolicenseexam.com/ I missed one question. There are plenty of free options but they didn't work for me.

Folks can feel free to disagree with me on the value of a CB but I think your money is better spent elsewhere if you want it as a safety device.

 

[geo.greg]

This is absolutely incorrect. There is no lawful way to transmit on any amateur frequency without a license. Please don't spread this misinformation.

Of course the Technician license is easy to get and no one interested in this hobby should be discouraged from pursuing it.

Not what i learned.

Title 47: Telecommunication
PART 97—AMATEUR RADIO SERVICE
.403 Safety of life and protection of property.
No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radio communication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available.

which means i believe that if your in an emergency, you dont need a licence. please tell me how i am miss reading this. and did suggest that he does continue getting his licence.

 

[Sabre]

Not what i learned.

Title 47: Telecommunication
PART 97—AMATEUR RADIO SERVICE
.403 Safety of life and protection of property.
No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radio communication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available.

which means i believe that if your in an emergency, you dont need a licence. please tell me how i am miss reading this. and did suggest that he does continue getting his licence.

Yes, and it says something similar for operating during a disaster under 97.401: radio stations may use any means to communicate urgent matters of life safety.

But the very definition of "radio station" is a LICENSED station; the rules allow such a licensed station to use whatever means it can in such situations, such as operating in a mode not permitted on the band or on a band for which the operator does not possess privileges.

Besides, how often does the average call for help really involve an urgent matter of life safety? It is far, far more likely that the guy will be simply broken down out of cellular range.

Anyone can pass the Technician test. It is irresponsible for a licensed amateur to promote the unlawful use of amateur equipment and/or frequencies.

 

[Korben]

Recovery, I don't know jack about the specifics of Subarus but all modern vehicles have hooks, they just may not be what you expect. They all have provisions(generally a slot) built into each corner of the subframe to tie the vehicle down in transport and tow truck drivers use them to which vehicles. There's several standards, don't know what Subaru uses but you can research it or get a combo unit like this. http://www.truckntow.com/grade-70-a...ba9DGxEklFQFAb9op1tiscaYMf94tZJrvzBoCbXLw_wcB
.
Gun, people go on about training like you have to be some kind of Delta Team operator, you don't. As long as you have enough knowledge and common since to be safe and legal then it's MUCH better to have one then not, period. 99% of the time just having a gun, any gun, is all you need. You're lucky to live in Florida, the Florida concealed carry permit is good in about 40 states. Almost anywhere else even Canada(certain conditions) as long as you unload, lock it up, etc. it's still legal to posses. Take the Florida concealed carry class, head to a range that rents guns to learn/choose, and buy one. The peace of mind alone is worth it, you're easy valuable prey traveling alone, even more so sleeping in a tent.
.
Sleeping, I'd consider very strongly planning to sleep in the car, security, comfort, and no need to buy/pack a tent. Maybe remove all the unused seats to make more room and set up a platform laying on the passenger side head towards the dash to reach controls. With the right organization it's very doable, worse case put extra cargo on the roof.

 

[bat]

A good 12v electrical tester

 

[Korben]

Except the 2014+ Jeep Cherokee (all trims other than "Trailhawk) - they have seriously zero recovery points period. Not even the things you're thinking about right now. Zilch.

While that might be true, it is Jeep after all, I really doubt it, all we are talking about is a hole or slot. Most are oblong slots like this http://s1298.photobucket.com/user/lurch6889/media/photo4_zps6f0f690b.jpg.html

 

[amo292]

While that might be true, it is Jeep after all, I really doubt it, all we are talking about is a hole or slot. Most are oblong slots like this http://s1298.photobucket.com/user/lurch6889/media/photo4_zps6f0f690b.jpg.html

Your correct in that every vehicle may have some holes, but they are usually useless in off road vehicle recovery. You first need to actually get to them with is not very easy when stuck. If you can even get to them you are going to need to have the hook kits, as pictured, to use them. I work summers recovering vehicles stuck on the beach and the hooks in frame holes are the absolute last resort for us. They do not work with any type of strap and only work with constant tension and a winch. Not everyone that comes to the rescue is going to have a winch. The holes also lack in strength in most conditions, ok on road, not very helpful when completely sunk in sand or mud. The location also leads to issues with body work. Unless you have a really low winching point bodywork and bumpers get pretty messed up. The Eye bolts provided with the OP's subaru are better than most vehicles come equipped with. As Shovel said, the new jeeps have no recovery points. Even the $60k "Overland" editions. This leads to some major issues.

Shovel also reminded me that a full size Shovel is a great tool to have in solo travel. It can serve many purposes and has served me well through my travels.

 

[thethePete]

I really meant it when I said this:

I would need to see this to believe it. They're probably behind a protective cover on the bumper skin and accept a thread in eye-bolt, like most european vehicles. It is unreasonable to think that they would provide zero options for recovery in an accident beyond "wrap a chain around the control arm, there Chet, and let's hope we don't bust nuthin".

They may only have a rear point (again, I would be legitimately shocked if they did not have a front one), but there will be some type of recovery point on it. I won't derail the thread any further than this, but a damn Honda Civic has front and rear recovery points.

 

[photo nomad]

It seems like everyone else has already provided you with a good list, the only thing I would like to add is do not bother with the Spot device, get the Inreach. The Spot device uses the Globalstar satellite network which does not extend far north. The Inreach devices have true global coverage with the Iridium network. I personally used the Inreach Explorer this fall when I travelled from Los Angeles to Inuvik and it worked flawlessly. Can't recommend it enough.


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