New to UTV Riding? Start With These Trail-Ready Essentials

Trail Riding Preparedness: 6 Must-Have Items Every First-Time SXS Owner Needs (with Amazon Recommendations)

So you’ve taken the plunge and joined the off-road community—congrats! A Side-by-Side (SXS) opens up a world of adventure, but it also requires preparation. Trails can be unpredictable, and the last thing you want is to be stuck miles from help without the essentials. Whether you’re exploring rocky climbs, muddy forests, or desert dunes, the right gear can make all the difference.

Here are six trail-tested Must-Have Items Every First-Time SXS Owner Needs — and we’ve even included some solid Amazon recommendations to get you started.

🛞 Be Ready for Flats: Spare Tire and Tire Repair Kit

Nothing ruins a ride faster than a flat tire—especially when you’re miles from the nearest road. Sharp rocks, stumps, or even a well-hidden nail can puncture a tire in an instant. That’s why having a spare tire and a tire repair kit is non-negotiable for any trail rider.

A tire plug kit allows you to handle small punctures on the fly. The Slime 1034-A Plug Kit is a compact, budget-friendly option with T-handle tools, plugs, and lubricant. It fits easily in your gear bag and is easy enough for beginners to use.

A full-size spare is a wise investment for longer trips or rockier terrain. Something like the Extreme Max 5001.5831 Pivoting Fold Down Hitch Mount Spare Tire Carrier for 2″ Receivers keeps your spare locked down and ready to go. It’s cage-mounted, rugged, and trail-tested.

🔌 Inflation on Demand: 12V Portable Air Compressor

Fixing a flat won’t help if you can’t get air back into the tire. That’s where a portable 12V air compressor comes in. Whether you’ve just patched a leak or need to adjust tire pressure for different terrain, having your own air source is necessary.

The VIAIR 88P Compressor is a favorite among off-roaders. It’s tough, connects directly to your vehicle’s battery, and can handle tires up to 33 inches. It even includes a built-in pressure gauge so you’re not guessing.

If you’re looking for something more affordable without sacrificing performance, the GSPSCN Double Cylinder Compressor is another great option. It’s fast, reliable, and compact enough to stash in your cargo box.

🔧 Fix It On the Trail: Tool Kit with SXS-Specific Essentials

Every SXS rider eventually finds themselves dealing with a loose bolt, rattling bracket, or accessory failure. When that moment comes, you’ll be glad you packed a trail-ready tool kit.

The Tusk 4×4 Tool Roll Kit with Tools is perfect for new owners. It includes everything from wrenches to socket sets, and it all comes neatly organized in a portable case. Pair that with a utility knife, zip ties, electrical tape, and a few SXS-specific items like a spare fuse and you’re good to go.

One of the most important vehicle-specific tools for many models—especially Polaris—is a belt removal tool. If your SXS uses a CVT transmission, like most Polaris models do, you’ll want something like the OBSIDIAN Polaris Belt Changing Tool. Practice with it before your first ride—you don’t want your first belt change to happen during a rainstorm on the trail.

🔗 Get Unstuck: Tow Strap or Recovery Rope

Whether you’re the one getting stuck—or the one doing the rescuing—a recovery strap or tow rope is essential. Mud holes, snow banks, loose sand… all are notorious for swallowing SXSs whole. Without a recovery plan, you’re relying on luck and cell service—not a good combo.

We recommend the Rhino USA Recovery Tow Strap, rated to over 30,000 lbs and tough enough for most side-by-sides and light trucks. It includes heavy-duty shackles and fits neatly in a gear box.

Consider the Olsa Tools Kinetic Recovery Rope with Soft Shackles if you prefer a softer approach. These are easier on your bumpers and suspension components and are a safer option in dynamic recovery situations.

🪢 Stay Moving: Spare Drive Belt & Belt Tool

If your machine has a belt-driven CVT transmission—and most do—then that drive belt is a lifeline. When it snaps, your SXS is going nowhere. That’s why carrying a spare drive belt and the right tool to install it is absolutely critical.

For Polaris models, the Gates G-Force Redline CVT Belt is a premium aftermarket choice that handles heat and high RPMs better than stock. Can-Am riders will want to stick with something like the OEM Can-Am Maverick X3 Belt for reliability.

Don’t forget the belt-changing tool—something like the Can-Am Clutch Removal Tool for Maverick models. It makes the job a whole lot easier, especially when you’re covered in mud and racing daylight.

📦 Protect Your Gear: Weatherproof Storage Box or Dry Bag

You’ll be surprised how quickly your SXS fills up with gear—and how fast that gear can get soaked or caked in dust. A weatherproof cargo box or dry bag keeps your tools, snacks, electronics, and first-aid kits safe no matter the trail conditions.

For Polaris owners, the Kemimoto Rear Storage Box is a fan favorite. It’s waterproof, lockable, and mounts securely to your bed without rattling loose.

Want something more flexible? The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag (20L) is perfect for wallets, phones, clothes, and food. It’s roll-top, fully sealed, and easy to carry or strap to your cage.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Must-Have Items Every First-Time SXS Owner Needs

Off-road adventures are full of unexpected twists—and that’s part of what makes them so thrilling. But the smart riders are the ones who plan ahead. These six essentials won’t just save your ride—they could save your entire weekend.

By investing in a few well-chosen tools and pieces of gear, you’ll ride more confidently, avoid unnecessary breakdowns, and keep your SXS adventure-ready.

Have your own Must-Have Items Every First-Time SXS Owner Needs? Let us know in the comments below, or tag us on social with #SXSNation to share your setup!

🔥 Bonus Safety Must-Have Items Every First-Time SXS Owner Needs: Onboard Fire Extinguisher

It’s one of the most overlooked safety items in the off-road world—and one of the most important. A fire extinguisher is a small investment that can save your machine, your ride, or even your life.

SXSs are filled with heat-producing components—engines, belts, fuel lines, and electrical systems. A fuel leak, overheating belt, or electrical short can ignite quickly, especially in dry, brushy environments. When fire strikes, having an extinguisher within reach gives you a fighting chance to stop it before it spreads.

✅ Recommended Option:

Kidde FA110 Multipurpose Fire Extinguisher

• ABC-rated for common types of fires (fuel, electrical, wood/brush)
• Lightweight and compact
• Easy to operate with a pressure gauge and clear instructions

For off-road use, pair your extinguisher with a secure, quick-release mount like the Kemimoto UTV Fire Extinguisher Mount. It attaches easily to roll bars and keeps your extinguisher within arm’s reach when seconds count.

🚨 Ride Smart, Ride Safe

Whether you’re climbing mountains, crawling through mud, or cruising the dunes, preparation is your best defense. Don’t let a small issue turn into a major problem. Equip your SXS with these essentials and you’ll ride with more confidence—and less stress.

Do you have questions about the must-have items every first-time SXS Owner Needs? Post them in the comments or connect with the community at #SXSNation.