There are mods you add because they look good. A set of flash looking wheels, a stainless snorkel, a big set of flares. And then there are the mods that actually keep you out there, the ones that protect your rig, your engine, and yourself when things get rough. Sun safety sits firmly in that second camp. It’s not a flashy upgrade or a “nice to have”, it’s standard gear for anyone who spends time outdoors.
The Most Overlooked Mod of All
You’ll research suspension lift specs for weeks and debate tyre sidewall strength around the campfire, but ask most blokes about their sun protection setup and you’ll cop a shrug. It’s the one bit of gear too many people skip, and it’s costing us more than we realise.
The Australian sun is brutal. It chews through paint, plastics, canvas, and it’s doing the same to your skin every time you head out unprotected. It’s slow, silent, and by the time you notice, the damage is already done.
Built-In Protection
Think of sun safety as your personal underbody armour. It’s not there for looks, but it stops the real damage from happening underneath. Long sleeves, a broad-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and shade, that’s your protection kit. You don’t have to think about it once it’s built into your setup.
If you’ve ever kitted out your rig properly, you know the rule: the right gear makes the job easy. Sun protection’s the same.
- Keep a bottle of SPF 50 in your daypack (it can break down if left in the glovebox).
- Reapply whenever you stop for a feed or a refuel.
- Throw on clothing that covers as much skin as possible and let go of singlets.
- Treat shade as a feature, not an afterthought. Awning, tree, whatever works.
- And don’t go in the sun without a hat that shades your face and ears, a cap doesn’t quite cut it.
Performance for the Long Haul
You wouldn’t take shortcuts on oil changes or recovery gear, because you know those things keep you moving in the long run. Sun protection’s no different. Skip it now, and you’re only setting yourself up for breakdowns later.
The problem isn’t carelessness, it’s forgetfulness. You’re focused on the track ahead, not the UV index. But like any good maintenance habit, it gets easier once it’s built into your routine. Sunscreen before you start the car. Hat when you step out. Shade up before lunch. Easy.
Factory Equipment for Every Driver
There’s a reason modern rigs come with things like traction control, airbags, and ABS, because some protection shouldn’t be optional. Sun safety’s the same deal. It’s the human equivalent of a long-range tank or a steel bash plate, designed to keep you running stronger, longer, and safer, no matter where you roam. If you’re a tech head or just want to know what you’re dealing with the SunSmart app is a great place to get daily UV updates. You can download it here. The easy way to stay sun safe|Cancer Council Australia|Cancer Council Australia.
The Bottom Line
We all love a good mod list, but this is one upgrade that doesn’t cost much and pays off every single time. Sun safety is all about endurance. It’s the mod that keeps you in top condition long after the paint fades and the canvas goes brittle.
