Snowmobile Checklist: What to Pack on a Snowmobile Trip
- by Bryan Veldboom - updated on 2/6/2023
What's the best part of winter? Snowmobile season, of course! There's nothing better than heading out into the great outdoors for some cross-country adventure. Before you hit the trails though, it's important to make sure you have the right equipment on hand. Our handy checklist will help you find the snowmobile batteries, headlight bulbs, flashlights and other gear you need to be ready for whatever winter throws at you.
How Do I Know If My Snowmobile Battery is Bad?
Before heading out on your next snowmobile trip, be sure to have your battery tested for free at your local Batteries Plus. If you need a replacement, we have plenty of batteries available from trusted brands like Xtreme and Duracell Ultra.
Not sure what kind of battery you need? Visit our Snowmobile Battery Buying Guide or read our blog entitled "What is the Best Battery for Your Snowmobile?" for more info.
How Do I Know What Battery Charger to Buy?
While your alternator will do an adequate job of recharging your snowmobile battery, it's a good idea to pick up a battery charger for those times when your snowmobile isn't being used. Here are a couple of suggestions:
- 0.8 amp automatic charging
- Charges both 6-volt & 12-volt batteries
- Compatible with flooded, AGM, gel & lithium batteries
- Shuts off automatically to prevent overcharging your battery
- 1.5 amp automatic charging
- Charges both 6-volt & 12-volt batteries
- Compatible with flooded, AGM, gel & lithium batteries
- Shuts off automatically to prevent overcharging your battery
What are the best Headlights and Tools for My Snowmobile?
Replacement Snowmobile Headlight Bulbs
Before taking your snowmobile out, be sure to test your headlights and replace any burnt-out bulbs. It's also a good idea to carry a spare set of bulbs in case one of your headlights burns out while riding.
Spare Spark Plugs, Fuses & Drive Belts for Your Snowmobile
A failed spark plug, fuse or drive belt can ruin a day of riding. That's why experts recommend carrying spares with you while riding. The LittelFuse 15 pack contains the most commonly used ATO and MINI fuses.
What Do You Put In a Snowmobile Tool Kit?
A basic tool kit is essential for swapping out spark plugs or other components. Your tool kit should include: a spark plug tool, a socket wrench set, a Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, a knife, pliers, electrical or duct tape, rags, bungee cords, an emergency starter rope and a tow rope.
Jumper Cables for Jump Starting a Snowmobile
Carrying a pair of jumper cables will allow you to jumpstart your snowmobile if you experience battery failure.
Flashlights for Your Snowmobile Kit
Flashlights and headlamps are essential equipment, allowing you to check maps, replace fuses or signal your location during an emergency. Be sure that the model you select is waterproofed, so that it will work reliably in the snow. Also, don't forget to bring extra alkaline batteries.
How Do You Stay Warm on a Snowmobile?
THAW Hand Warmers
A great way to keep yourself comfortable in the cold. The device comes with three different temperature modes and is easy to recharge. Best of all, it doubles as a power bank. Available in small and large sizes.
THAW Heated Seat Pad
Warm yourself up after a long day outdoors with this rechargeable heated seat pad. Features three different temperature settings and can be used as a power bank.
How to Make Sure Others Can See You While You're Snowmobiling
Light-Up Bracelet
The Nite Ize SlapLit™ acts as a rechargeable light-up bracelet for your wrist or ankle. It features a reflective pattern, two light modes (glow & flash) and recharges using a micro USB cable (not included).
Mini Glow Sticks
RADIANT® LED Mini Glow Sticks are a great alternative to chemical light sticks and are available in green, white, red and blue.
Portable Power is Important on a Snowmobile Trip
Generators
If you're staying in a cabin, you may want to consider bringing along a generator in case the power goes out.
Power Banks
A fully charged cell phone is essential for communicating with other riders and calling for help in the event of an emergency. A power bank is the perfect way to keep cell phones charged up when you're away from an electrical outlet.
What are Some Other Emergency Snowmobiling Supplies?
When you're out in the cold, be sure that you have appropriate clothing, first aid supplies and other basic essentials on hand. This checklist put together by the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a number of other great suggestions.