Winter off-roading is one of those experiences that can be breathtaking — snow-covered forests, remote trails glistening white, crisp cold air — but it’s also a time when conditions can turn on you fast. At MULE Expedition Outfitters, we believe in being ready for whatever the winter throws your way. Whether you’re heading out with a camper or just exploring snow-covered trails, having the right recovery gear and knowing how to use it makes all the difference.
In this post, we’ll walk you through:
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✅ Essential recovery gear for snow & ice
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🛠️ Steps to safely recover a stuck vehicle
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⚠️ Safety tips & best practices
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🔧 How to build a solid winter recovery kit (gear list)
Recommended Watch First
For a hands-on look at snow recovery gear and winter techniques, check out our video:
Must-Have Recovery Gear for Winter Conditions
| Gear | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Traction / Recovery Boards | Provides grip when tires spin in snow or ice — great for getting out of ruts without digging. |
| Shovel (folding or compact) | Remove snow around tires or under your rig to give traction boards or tires a clear path. |
| Air Compressor + Tire Deflator | Lower tire pressure to increase footprint and traction in snow; re-inflate when back on pavement. |
| Recovery Straps / Snatch Ropes + Rated Shackles | For vehicle-to-vehicle recovery or pulling with a tow vehicle — always ensure straps are correctly rated. |
| Winch (with dampener & rated anchor) | Best tool when wheels are buried or terrain is steep — can self-recover or assist others with proper setup. |
| Recovery Jack or Jack Base Plate (when paired with traction board or firm ground) | When you need to lift or reposition the vehicle — helpful if stuck on snow-covered ruts or uneven terrain. |
| Emergency / Survival Kit (extra clothes, food, water, gloves, light, first aid) | Winter conditions add risk — always prepare for unexpected delays or weather changes. |
How to Recover: Safe Steps for Snow or Ice
Before you attempt anything — stop. Assess your surroundings. Make sure it’s safe.
Step 1: Clear & Prepare
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Use a shovel to dig snow or ice from around each stuck tire — front and rear.
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Clear debris under the vehicle if the chassis is grounded.
Step 2: Deploy Traction Boards
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Place boards in front (or behind) of tires on a path you want to travel.
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Gently accelerate — avoid spinning the tires. Spinning digs you deeper. Use slow, steady throttle to climb out.
Step 3: Lower Tire Pressure (if not already done)
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Lowering pressure increases footprint and helps tires “float” on snow rather than dig in. Re-inflate using an onboard or portable air compressor once clear.
Step 4: Use Recovery Straps / Winch (If traction boards alone don’t work)
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Always attach straps or winch lines to rated recovery points, never bumper ends or suspension components.
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Use a snatch block when needed to redirect pull or increase mechanical advantage.
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Keep all bystanders well clear and use a winch damper for safety.
Step 5: Use Jack + Board (if vehicle is high-centered)
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Lift the vehicle using a jack if you have a solid base or board under the jack.
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Slide a traction board under the wheel — this can give you the leverage needed.
Step 6: Recovery Done — Reset & Recharge
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Re-inflate tires to highway pressure using your air compressor.
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Stow gear properly. Inspect straps, shackles, and winch line for damage.
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If you used a winch or heavy load, inspect for wear before next use.
Safety & Smart Practices
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Use rated gear only — cheap straps or undersized shackles are common failure points.
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Wear gloves, protective eyewear, and use a winch damper to avoid spray or snapback hazards.
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Always have a “spotter” or helper — even on seemingly easy recoveries.
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Never spin tires or accelerate wildly when stuck — this makes recoveries harder and damages terrain.
Build Your Winter Recovery Kit — MULE’s Recommended Essentials
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Traction boards (e.g. MAXTRAX or equivalent)
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Snatch strap + rated shackles + tree-saver strap (for winch anchoring)
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Winch with dampener + recovery line + gloves + protective eyewear
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Spare clothing, warm gear, food, water, first-aid kit, flashlight/headlamp
Need help outfitting your rig for winter recovery or overlanding? Our team at MULE can hook you up with the gear, install support, or even help build a full recovery-ready rig.
Final Thoughts
Winter travel can deliver some of the most memorable adventures — but it also demands respect for the terrain and preparation. With the right recovery gear and thoughtful planning, you can turn a potential stuck situation into just another challenge solved. Stay safe, stay prepared — and enjoy the snow-covered trails ahead.
- The MULE Team
