How to drive on sand (and how to unbog yourself)

While we’re all aware of incidents resulting from diver error, distraction or substance abuse, unroadworthy tyres and poor car maintenance also contribute to the number of road accidents that occur year on year. Here's how to check your tyres to make sure they’re in tip top driving condition. 

To hit the dunes, you’ll need to have a vehicle that’s made for off-roading, and that’s a 4WD or 4X4. These cars a built specifically to provide more control on rough terrain and supply maximum traction to the wheels. That being said, make sure your 4WD has a high enough clearance and low-range gear section to make sure it can manage the conditions.

Tyre pressure

The correct tyre pressure will depend on the make and model of your vehicle and the nature of the sand you’re driving on. Generally, the guidance is to lower the pressure to 16 PSI. The idea behind lowering the pressure is to increase the size of your tyres’ footprint, so a greater portion of it makes contact with the sand. This should help you accelerate forward easily, as opposed to getting immediately bogged down.

Consider your vehicle’s traction control system

Traction control systems are designed to identify when a wheel has lost its grip on the road and correct it by slowing the slipping wheel’s speed. Now, when you’re driving on a normal road, this is a great safety feature, but when you’re driving in sand, it can be a little problematic. So, depending on your vehicle, you may need to turn off traction control before heading on sand. It’s best to check this with your car’s manufacturer and get specific guidance that’s right for your vehicle.

No one plans on getting stuck in the sand, but even the most experienced sand drivers can find themselves spinning on the spot. So it pays to plan ahead and be prepared with the right recovery equipment. 

A tyre gauge to check your tyre pressure levels before and after driving on sand.  
 
Sand safety flag a fluoro flag that can help other drivers see you. In some areas (like the Flinders and Simpson desert) it’s a requirement. 

Snatch straps to attach to another vehicle so you can be pulled out of a bog hole.

Long handled shovel in case you need to be dug out of a bog.

Traction boards to help your tyres get grip.

A compressor for pumping your tyres back up (if you’re planning on being far away from a sealed road service station.

Not every beach can be driven on, and not every sandy road should be followed. Beaches are delicate ecosystems, and too much human interference can cause damage. Birds and turtles often nest in dunes and the grasses that grow across them help eliminate erosion. Driving over sand dunes can damage flora and fauna.

Always follow signs and take note if you need to purchase a permit to venture onto a particular stretch. Those rules are in place for a reason and fines can be steep if you’re caught doing the wrong thing. Also remember that just because tracks suggest another car has already driven there, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily safe for you. Stick to the rules for your own safety and to preserve the land.

And don’t forget, even when you’re driving on sand, road rules still apply. (Yes, even if there aren’t any signs) You must hold a valid driver licence, and your vehicle must be registered to drive on beaches or dunes.

Tyre pressure ready? Check. Equipment on board? Check. Knowledge of the rules? Check. Now the fun can start!

If it’s your first time driving on sand 
Stick to flat, compact beach conditions. This will give you a chance to experience the unique feel of driving on sand before you tackle more difficult terrain.

Get the settings right and keep a steady momentum 
As you near the start of the sand, engage the 4WD function if it’s not on already. If you have the option of ‘4WD low’, select that over ‘4WD high’. You want to drive conservatively but maintain steady forward momentum.

Avoid sharp turns and take it easy 
Quick swerves can be catastrophic as your vehicle can tip over. Take turns smoothly and drive at a responsible speed.

Avoid drama on the dunes  
If you’re going up and down dunes, be sure to stick to a straight line and don’t change direction midway. You also want to maintain momentum, without launching yourself over the top (a fine balance) and if you stop you may get bogged in a dangerous position that’s hidden from drivers coming the opposite direction. This is where your safety flag is extremely important.

1. Stop. If you keep trying to drive forward, you’re just going to dig the wheels in deeper. Turn off the engine, put the car into gear or park for automatics, and put the handbrake on. 

2. Get out the shovel. Told you it would come in handy! Dig the sand out from around the tyres to create an easier path. 

3. Wedge the traction boards under the wheels. Now it’s time to slowly drive out.

Now, if you’re in a more complicated spot, like an incline, don’t try to drive uphill. You’ll have more luck using the momentum of the incline to roll downhill and out of the bog. Momentum is key, and once you feel yourself able to start moving, don’t stop until you’re on more solid ground.

If you’re driving with another party and you’ve tried all the steps above, here’s hoping they have a winch. Now is the time to get out the snatch strap secured to rated recovery points. Always use a dampener on the strap to help absorb the shock if it fails. This reduces the chance of injury to you and damage to your vehicle.

Driving on the sand is a thrilling experience but also a real challenge for beginners. Being well prepared and having a basic understanding of how your car handles will go a long way.