How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway with an SXS Rental

Planning a weekend escape that isn’t just brunch, errands, and maybe a nap you didn’t mean to take? Time to go on an off-road adventure. 

If you’re the type who thrives in exploring nature, then you might be considering getting an SXS rental for your next trip. This is the kind of getaway where mud is basically a souvenir, and the journey is way more fun than the destination.

Let’s talk about how to make the most out of your SXS rental.

What’s So Good About An SXS Vehicle?

A side-by-side (SXS) vehicle is basically the tougher cousin of an ATV. These off-road rides come with room for two to four people, seatbelts, and roll cages. They’re designed to handle rough trails, sand dunes, rocky climbs, and more. 

Bonus points? You don’t need to be a pro racer to drive one. If you can drive and love the thrill, you’re halfway there.

Now let’s map out how to pull off the perfect SxS weekend trip in just six steps.

Step 1. Pick A Destination 

Before anything else, you need to pick your destination. The perfect place looks different for different people. It could be up a stunning mountain or through rugged desert trails with breathtaking scenery. You can start your search by deciding what type of terrain you’ll be exploring. 

To help you out, here’s a quick list of the most popular spots for anyone looking for an adventure off-road around the US.

• Sedona Red Rocks (Arizona) – Iconic red sandstone formations, rocky ledges, and slickrock trails.
• Tonto National Forest (Arizona) – Desert canyons, pine forests, and dirt trails that range from easy rides to rugged climbs.
• Sonoran Desert (Arizona, California, and Mexico) – Red sandstone, slickrock climbs, and dusty desert trails with epic canyon views.
• Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (Georgia) – Green ridges, rivers, and waterfalls. Scenic OHV and hiking trails.
• Black Hills National Forest (South Dakota & Wyoming) – Forested trails, rolling hills, granite outcrops, muddy sections after rain, and some rocky climbs.

Step 2. Book an SXS Rental in Advance

This is where people mess up. SxS rentals aren’t like borrowing your neighbor’s lawnmower. They book up fast, especially in spring and fall.

Lock in your rental early so you’re not left googling “fun things to do indoors” while your friends are out making TikToks of their wild trail ride. 

Also, ask what’s included and what you can get for an extra fee. Think helmets, fuel, or trail maps. You don’t want surprises when you’re out in the middle of nowhere. 

Step 3. Find Accommodation and Tour Guide 

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Alt text: A side shot of an SXS vehicle perched up a rocky cliff.

Sure, you can rough it in a tent, but after bouncing around in an SxS all day, a comfy bed feels like winning the lottery. Look for lodging near the trails, such as cabins, lodges, or even glamping setups.

If you’re new to the area (or in SXS riding in general), consider getting guided tours. Guides are great at navigation as they know the best routes, hidden attractions, and how to avoid dangerous spots. If you have some friends who are off-road enthusiasts, then that works too!

Step 4. Create an Itinerary

Now, before you roll your eyes, yes, itineraries can be cool. They don’t have to be super detailed, but you’ll want to have a good idea of what you’ll do when you’re there, especially if you’re going on a multi-day trip. 

Plan for a mix of adventure and chill. Maybe Saturday is your big trail day, and Sunday is all about a scenic ride followed by burgers at a local diner. Keep it flexible enough for spontaneity but structured enough that you don’t waste precious daylight.

Step 5. Plan Your Routes

Download maps or trail apps ahead of time because let’s be real: cell service is basically a myth once you’re deep in the wild. Mark rest points, fuel stops, and photo ops. A little prep means you spend less time panicking about where you are and more time soaking in the greenery around.

Pro tip: Always have a backup route. Trails can close unexpectedly, and you don’t want your adventure to be unforgettable just because you got lost.

Step 6. Gear Up and Be Safe

Adrenaline is fun, but safety is what lets you tell the story later instead of becoming the story.

Bring the essentials: helmet, goggles, gloves, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Dress in layers (because trails love to trick you with “sunny and warm” turning into “suddenly freezing”). And yes, sunscreen. 

Here’s a quick checklist of things to prepare for off-roading:

• Driver’s license (for driving the SXS; passengers don’t need this)
• Helmet & goggles
• Comfortable clothes & sturdy shoes
• An offline map or GPS
• Water & snacks
• First-aid kit
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses (for eye protection)
• Charged phone or power bank

Also, remember: SxS vehicles are powerful, but they’re not invincible. Respect the machine, respect the trail, and respect your own limits.

Your Off-Road Exploration Starts Here

Planning a weekend getaway with an SxS rental has never been easier. Whether you’re chasing sunsets across a desert ridge or winding through forest trails, the adventure starts the moment you rev the engine.

So grab your crew, book that rental, and get ready to turn “just another weekend” into the story you’ll be telling for years.