Every new D-MAX and MU-X vehicle offers 3.5-tonne towing+ capability, giving owners the confidence to tow a caravan, camper trailer or boat with ease. However, understanding vehicle and trailer weights remains an important part of safe and enjoyable towing.
Every accessory, modification and piece of equipment contributes to your overall weight, making it important to prioritise what earns a place on the packing list and what can stay in the shed.
We asked I-Venture Club instructor David Wilson to share four items he considers essential when travelling and four he believes are often unnecessary.
Dave’s Must-Haves
An Accurate Tyre Pressure Gauge
"My number-one inclusion, regardless of the type of trip I'm undertaking, is an accurate tyre pressure gauge. As vehicle and trailer loads increase, tyre pressures often need to be adjusted accordingly."
"Correct tyre pressures play an important role in vehicle stability, handling and towing performance, while also helping to reduce the risk of trailer sway at highway speeds."
A Compact Barbecue
"You don't need to drag around a 16-burner barbecue. My baby Weber goes with us everywhere when we've got the camper on the back. Even when we take out the seven-metre boat, it usually finds a spot on board because nothing beats a fresh cook-up after a day on the water."
Extra Fuel
"We do long distances in the middle of nowhere and, for me, the extra fuel is worth every kilogram. I'd rather carry a little more diesel than spend a trip staring at the fuel gauge."
Durable light truck tyres with a minimum 120 load rating
"For my style of travel, quality light truck tyres with an appropriate load rating are essential."
"They're designed to carry heavier loads and can provide additional durability on rough terrain, offering greater confidence when travelling in challenging conditions."
Dave’s Best Avoided
Big Fridges
"I see a lot of people running dual-zone 120L fridges that take up a significant amount of space in the tub, particularly when they're also towing. Unless you're tackling an extended remote trip, such as crossing the Simpson Desert or travelling the Canning Stock Route where resupply opportunities are limited, a fridge around the 60L mark will often be more practical while still meeting your needs."
"In my personal D-MAX, I've got a compact 35L ARB fridge and it gets me through most trips without any issues. For many travellers, a smaller fridge can free up valuable space and help keep weight under control without sacrificing convenience."
Overly Complex Electrical Systems
"I've seen plenty of setups that look like they could power a small town, but most people don't need that much gear."
"In many cases, a simpler, well-designed setup can provide everything you need without adding unnecessary weight, cost and complexity."
Super Jacked Suspension
"There's a tendency for people to chase the biggest, tallest and most complicated suspension setup they can find, only to discover it doesn't suit the way they actually use their vehicle."
"Suspension upgrades should be chosen to match your intended load and travel conditions. Go too far and you can compromise ride comfort, handling and everyday drivability. A well-balanced setup will often deliver better results than the most extreme option on the market."
Ignoring Weather Conditions
"For me, there’s nothing worse than being stuck in a caravan on holiday in torrential rain, almost regardless of your set-up. Crowded House was right. Always take the weather with you. If the meteorological gods aren’t cooperating, reschedule."
The best touring setup isn't always the one with the most gear. Sometimes it's the one that leaves unnecessary weight behind.
