Mobility: Is Your Vehicle Ready for Anything?

Part 1: Building Your Vehicle – The Essentials

Whether you’re commuting to work or planning for the unexpected, your vehicle should be more than just transportation.  It should be a lifeline. Emergencies can strike without warning, and your ability to move, evade, and survive for at least 72 hours might depend entirely on what you’ve packed and how prepared your vehicle is.

Start with the Right Vehicle

The foundation of mobility preparedness begins with selecting a capable vehicle.  You don’t need to break the bank or buy something brand new. Even a factory stock 4-wheel drive vehicle will get you past many common obstacles like curbs, grass, gravel, small ditches.

Why is this so important? Real world emergencies, such as California’s wildfires, showed how vehicles often had to cross curbs, break through fences, and navigate terrain their vehicles (Prius) weren’t intended for. Many got stuck. Some gave up and fled on foot. Don’t let that be you.

Key points when choosing your vehicle:

• Go with a 4WD

• Trucks and SUVs are ideal; I personally prefer midsize options for their agility and fuel economy

• Brands like Jeep and Toyota consistently offer rugged platforms (I’ve run Tacoma’s, Wranglers, and currently drive a Jeep Gladiator JT)

Pro Tip: If you choose to rely on a secondary “emergency-only” vehicle, remember, you may not have time to access/retrieve it. Your vehicle must be ready at a moment’s notice.

Know Your Vehicle Inside and Out

Don’t just drive it - know it. Learn:

• Fuel tank capacity and mileage per tank

• Payload, towing capacity, and GVWR

• The effect of a fully loaded setup on performance

• Where your tow points are (front and rear)

This information could be the difference between a successful escape or getting stranded.

Tires & Battery: The Most Likely Points of Failure

In a crisis, tires and batteries are usually the first things to fail. Being ready means carrying the right equipment and maintaining your vehicle well.

 Tire Essentials

• Full-size spare

• Plug repair kit

• Quality air compressor (ARB or CO₂ tank are great options)

• Hi-Lift jack - can double as a winch or recovery tool

• Monitor tread depth, rotate regularly, and adjust tire pressure for off-road conditions. Air down when necessary but avoid going too low (you risk losing the bead).

A CO₂ tank can also be used for air tools and filling tires fast but remember it needs regular refilling - your local welding shop can help.

Battery Support

• Jumper cables work, but a lithium jump pack (like the NOCO) is a game-changer

• Self-reliant

• Charges phones

• Acts as a flashlight or strobe in emergencies

• Replace vehicle batteries every 2 years, especially in extreme climates.

Fire Safety Matters

Add a multipurpose fire extinguisher rated A, B, and C. It must be:

• Hard-mounted

• Easily accessible

• Checked regularly for pressure

Don’t let it roll around and risk accidental discharge inside your cab.

Michael Hernandez is the CEO of Fieldcraft, bringing over two decades of experience in leadership, behavioral health, and preparedness.

Learn more: https://fieldcraftsurvival.com