Being the "new guy" or "gal" in the Jeep community isn't always easy. In fact, it can be downright overwhelming at times. Wheeling season and event season can get very busy very fast and you want to do it all but don't know where to start. You're not always sure of who to ask for advice or where to get the best bang-for-your-buck (hint, hint, nudge, nudge....JK). Then you've got the hot-heads who bust your balls and give you a hard time because you're the newbie. And don't forget about the low-ballers who will try to get you to drop the price of what you're selling to lower than it's worth. We have your solution to all this chatter right here! Offroad Elements took to our Facebook and Twitter followers to include them in our blog and get the greatest, most honest, list of advice and recommendations for new #Jeeple. Enjoy!

- Never wheel alone: You never know what could happen on the trails. You could get yourself in a sticky situation, break parts, hurt yourself or (cringing) even a rollover. Always wheel with at least 2 vehicles.

- Never leave a fellow wheeler behind: If you can't see the Jeep behind you on the trails, slow down or stop. They may just be slow or might be stuck and need a set of hands or extra vehicle to get them out. 

- Buy a mechanics tool set with both metric and imperial sets to keep in your Jeep at all times: You'll always have the right tools and never have to look for that damn 10mm socket again!

- Be prepared: Bring your own tools, recovery gear and spare parts.

- If you plan on airing down, be sure to have a solution to air back up: Air is not free and although others may have a compressor or air tank, it's always good to have your own back up plan or know of an air up station or gas station nearby.

- Don't add mods to impress someone: You should be adding mods that you are going to be using. Treat them like investments. Invest your time and money into something that will be worthwhile and come into use on the trails. We've honestly never seen a 50" light bar save someone when they're high-centered on a rock (although, we do like the light bars for additional light during nighttime wheeling).

- Good parts ain't cheap. Cheap parts ain't good: This is a MUST to remember. Shopping around for the best prices is smart, but don't always go buying things off Craigslist or Amazon just because they're inexpensive. This can lead to replacing said parts and sometimes even other parts that were damaged because of this purchase.

- Ask questions!: Everyone in the Jeep community started out knowing nothing. You won't be laughed at or criticized for being curious. On the other hand, stay humble. Don't let it get to your head if someone asks you a question- nobody likes a pompous know-it-all.

- Don't settle for a "right now" build. Do your research and find out what's going to work best for your budget, build and experience.        

- The Jeep Wave: WAVE BACK!!! No, you are not the mayor...or Kanye West for all we care. The Jeep Wave is a tradition recognized and used throughout the community! It's a sign of respect and a nod to other owners for driving the best damn vehicle on the road!

- Figure out what your goal is going to be for your Jeep and build from there: Is it your daily driver or weekend warrior? Can you afford to have it in the shop for days if something goes wrong? Will you be using it mostly just on roads or will you be taking it on rocks, boulders, beaches, through mud, etc. All of these questions need to be factored into your build.

- Get out and about with a variety of people and groups: You'll get fist hand knowledge on what works for you and what doesn't.

- Get a CB radio: Don't be that guy or gal who can't communicate with the group on the trails. Cell phone service and signals aren't always reliable options.

- Never be afraid to ask for a spot on a tricky obstacle or when you don't feel comfortable: It's better to be safe than sorry.

- Tread lightly: Bring trash bags for your trash. Attain to the "Carry In, Carry Out" rule. Always be respectful of the trails and property. Stay on the designated trails and be aware of property lines. This keeps the environment clean and trails open for fellow wheelers.

- Listen to those willing to help you: They're not trying to be know-it-alls. They are trying to keep everyone informed and safe as well as getting you and your Jeep home in one piece.

- Your Jeep build will evolve with your skill level: Don't be the "Billy Badass" who puts a 6" lift on stock axles and factory suspension parts. Instead, learn what you and your Jeep are capable of and build up from there.

- Ride along: Riding along in someone else's Jeep gives you a chance to not only learn what their suspension rides and performs like, but also gives you a chance to explore new terrain from the passenger seat before testing it out in your Jeep.

- Pack a first aid kit: Hopefully, you will rarely have to use a first aid kit but in the event of an injury, you'll be happy you packed it. Keep alcohol swabs, bug spray, bandaids, gauze pads and Tylenol or Advil in a Ziploc baggie for when you need it.

- You drive a Jeep, not a sports car: You're going to get scratches, dents and dings. That's what a Jeep is built for. Each one has it's own funny story behind it (except, maybe for the dreaded dimple-mod).

- Keep in mind how you represent yourself and the community. What you say and do reflects no only you but also how people view the name, brand and those around you.

- Learn to use your recovery gear properly: This will save you time, parts and headaches on the trails.

- Being a Jeeper isn't something you buy- it's a lifestyle. A lifestyle that many probably wish they lived, and that we are proud to be part of. It's the way you carry yourself, interact with fellow Jeepers and give back to the Jeep World.

- And lastly, always remember to have fun!: The Jeep community is a close-knit group of like-minded individuals who are always out to have a good time. We welcome new members with open minds and arms and are excited to have you on board!