To the die-hard off-roaders, green laning may be seen as the ‘mildest’ type of off-roading there is. However, it’s still just as exciting and perfect for beginner adventurers! If you’re just breaking out into the action-packed world of Overlanding, green laning is the best way to walk before you run (or, in this case, drive).
Despite it being relatively simple to navigate, it still presents a few challenges — especially to the first-timer. Read below as we discuss everything green laning and how you can master off-roading on your very first trip.
Green Laning Versus Off-Roading
Many people still believe that these terms mean the same thing; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Off-roading is the general term used for driving on any path that isn’t a smooth or paved road. The most significant difference between green laning and off-roading is that off-roading is usually done on private land, and the vehicle doesn’t always have to be legally roadworthy.
Green laning, on the other hand, can technically be seen as a ‘type’ of off-roading. It involves driving on paths or trails that have fallen into disrepair. These can range from countryside roads to old public roads that are no longer covered in tarmac.
It’s called ‘green laning’ because it often allows drivers to drive through a lot of vegetation and natural greenery. This form of off-roading is an excellent way for beginners to test their skills out on the open road without risking too much damage to their vehicle.
A Beginners Guide to Green Laning:
Watch Where Your Tires Fall
Although you’re driving along the beaten path, green laning means you’re still on a road of some kind. So, all driving rules that apply to any other public road apply to green laning.
Your vehicle must be legally roadworthy, and you need to be mindful of other drivers and travelers. Green lanes can also be used for horse riding, hiking, or even dog walking, so you’ll need to be vigilant of your fellow green laners.
Always be aware of your impact on the environment too. If you’re not careful, you could cause some serious damage to plants and wildlife.
Bring Recovery Gear
The dangers you’ll come across when green laning is minimal. But, always be on the lookout for sneaky little devils like potholes.
When approaching a pothole or a ditch, you want to do it at an angle, not head-on. This way, only one tire can cross over at a time, while your other three can still have traction on the surface.
Green laning may also bring you and your Defender face-to-face with mud. Driving through mud is not the easiest, so bring recovery tools on your trip to give you more confidence and peace of mind. Standard necessities like a first aid kit, phone charger, and torch should always be in your Defender anyway. But it won’t hurt bringing a shovel and tractions pads along for this ride too.
Don’t Go Alone, You Rookie
Although accidents with green laning aren’t common, you shouldn’t go alone if you’re a beginner off-roader. In fact, the more experienced your off-roading partner is, the better.
If you have little experience driving on uneven surfaces, you are more susceptible to things like punctures or getting stuck in the mud.
In an event such as this, you’ll be glad you took your know-it-all off-roading buddy and their 4×4 with you.
Make Sure You and Your Defender Are Roadworthy
Despite their uneven surfaces and overgrown nature, green lanes are still considered public roads. This means that they are subject to the same road traffic orders as every other road.
You will need road tax, insurance, a driving license, and in some cases, MOT. For your own safety and to enjoy the experience without any ‘bumps in the road,’ ensure 4×4 is roadworthy.
Why Off-Roading Enthusiasts Love Green Laning
Although this off-roading experience is ideal for the first-timer, seasoned off-roaders love taking this route too. This is because the experience requires little to no car modifications to enjoy driving on the beaten path. There is also a minimal chance of it causing damage to your vehicle.
However, it is the best idea to still do green laning in a high-riding car like the Land Rover Defender. This is your best bet when tackling uneven surfaces, which smaller cars may not be able to handle.
Begin With Classic Overland
The world of off-roading awaits you with open arms. But of course, you’ll want to cruise in with a 4×4 that’s ready to take you high and low. We make Defenders built to last, so your off-road trips can keep getting better as you build confidence.
Contact us today, and we’ll get you out on the open road in no time.