Bogged!

Bogged! Now What?

It happens when you least expect it—stuck up to your chassis rails, unable to move under your own power. Bogged!

What do you do? How do you get moving again? Is there anyone around who can help? Do you have the right gear for recovery?

All very valid questions, but in the heat of the moment, how rational will your decision-making be? If you’re experienced in this area, your thought process will be fairly straightforward. However, for those new to off-roading, let’s break it down.

Step 1: Tyre Pressure

Did you lower your tyre pressures before heading into the terrain where you’re now stuck? In my honest opinion, this should be your first go-to.

You’re probably thinking, This guy is mad! I’m already stuck up to the chassis, and now he wants me to deflate my tyres even more? Yes, that’s exactly what you need to do.

Deflating your tyres increases the tread surface’s footprint, depending on the type of tyre you have. A good-quality off-road tyre with a light truck construction will provide relatively good sidewall strength, supporting the tyre while extending its footprint. Sidewall bulging is normal—just remember, you’re aiming for a longer footprint, not a wider one.

Once your tyres are properly deflated, ensure you have engaged four-wheel drive and attempt to drive out. If you can move forward or even backward, you’ve succeeded.

Step 2: Digging & Recovery Boards

If the tyre pressure trick doesn’t work, it’s time to try another approach. Do you have a shovel or recovery boards?

If you have a shovel, dig in front of and behind the tyres to create space. This allows you to rock the car back and forth by alternating between first gear and reverse. This motion can help build momentum and pop your car out of the bog.

If you have recovery boards, they can double as a makeshift shovel. After clearing space, wedge them as close to the tyres as possible so that the tread can grip the boards and assist in the recovery.

Step 3: Lowering Pressure Further & Rock Packing

If recovery boards don’t work and you’re still stuck with no other vehicles around, self-recovery remains your best option. At this point, frustration may have set in, so rational decision-making is essential.

You make a phone call and find out that help is on the way—but it’ll take some time. What else can you try?

Since the recovery boards looked promising but didn’t provide enough grip, consider lowering your tyre pressures further—2 PSI at a time can make a big difference. However, never drop below 10 PSI, as the tyre could separate from the wheel beads, creating an entirely new problem.

Another option is rock packing. If possible, dig in front of the tyres and place sizable rocks or logs in the cleared space. This may provide just enough traction to get you moving.

Essential Gear Checklist

Having the right gear—and knowing how to use it—makes a world of difference. Of course, trip planning is equally important. If a spontaneous idea pops into your head, ask yourself: Do I have the know-how and equipment to handle an unexpected challenge?

Here’s a list of essential gear I always keep in the back of my 4WD:

• Recovery rope/strap
• Soft shackles
• Recovery hitch (suited for soft shackles)
• Foldable shovel
• Air compressor
• Tyre deflators

I only bring recovery boards for planned trips, but you can mount them on roof racks or store them in canopies to always have them on hand.

Final Tip: Gear Maintenance

Always inspect your gear after use to ensure it’s clean and in good condition. If you notice stitching coming apart or tears forming, replace those items before heading out again.

Join the Adventure

Want to chat about your next adventure and check out top-notch recovery gear? Visit us at the Rockhampton Outdoor Adventure plus Home & Lifestyle Expo from 11th–13th July!