Summary
- Some off-road upgrades you can make to your Toyota Tacoma include installing a new suspension system and switching to a performance fuel pump. You can also install a winch for emergencies.
- Adding a truck bed rack and nerf bars or running boards to your Tacoma’s body can improve its storage capacity and make getting on and off easier. Installing a truck toolbox is also a good idea if you plan to carry a ton of tools with you. A tailgate organizer can also help.
- A tonneau cover will keep your valuables safe and secure in the Tacoma’s bed. Floor mats will make cleanup after your adventure a breeze, and a light bar and off-road lights will ensure you can see even in the darkest areas or amidst the worst weather.
The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most iconic midsized trucks on the market. Since its debut in 1995, the Tacoma has only grown in popularity over the years. It’s a highly reliable workhorse that can cut through different terrains with ease. It’s also highly modifiable and can adapt from being a daily driver to the perfect off-roadster. With its versatility, it’s no surprise that there are a ton of accessories for anyone looking to take their Tacoma off the beaten trail. Here are some excellent off-road accessories you might want for your next adventure:
Upgraded Suspension

Upgrading your Tacoma’s suspension can do a lot for its off-road performance depending on what upgrades you install. In general, a good upgrade kit should help you handle your vehicle more easily over rough terrain while also protecting the undercarriage from damage. It can also improve ride quality, making the experience feel smoother and more stable. Finally, a high-quality suspension upgrade can help your Tacoma’s longevity by reducing wear and tear.
Before you upgrade your ride’s suspension, make sure to find a suspension kit you can trust. The last thing you want is to do a lot of work for a bad upgrade. ICON is a great example of a trustworthy suspension manufacturer. It specializes in suspension components for all sorts of vehicles, and you can trust their suspension lift kits for your Tacoma.
Performance Fuel Pump

Installing a performance fuel pump can make a big difference, especially if you’ve modified your Tacoma’s engine for additional horsepower. The Tacoma’s stock fuel pumps can struggle to supply sufficient fuel to a higher-performing engine than they were designed to handle. High-performance fuel pumps, like those designed and manufactured by Holley, deliver higher fuel volumes while also ensuring consistent fuel pressure. When hard accelerating or when the engine is under load, a high-performance fuel pump can also prevent fuel starvation in the engine.
Emergency Winch

Safety should be of the utmost importance when off-roading. Having an emergency winch will likely put a bit of a dent in your savings, but it can be a real lifesaver in an emergency situation. A winch can help pull your Tacoma to safety if it ends up stuck in some mud or in a difficult position with its tires left without purchase. It won’t be wholly necessary if you’re sticking to the dirt roads and trails, but if you plan to venture past these areas, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Truck Bed Rack

A truck bed rack adds a lot of versatility when you head off-road. It provides an elevated storage area, allowing the bed space to be used for other items. Bed racks are an excellent place to attach items like a spare tire or bikes and camping gear. They can also support heavy weights since they attach to the truck beds themselves.
Tailgate Organizer

A tailgate organizer attaches to the bed side of your Tacoma’s tailgate. While there are different types out there, we recommend one with a molle panel. That way, you can customize the items strapped onto the panel and have easy access to them as needed.
Tonneau Cover

A tonneau cover can keep things in your Tacoma from spilling out in the midst of a bumpy drive. This is especially important while off-roading. While you can fasten everything down to secure it even with an exposed bed, it won’t hurt to have that extra layer of protection. It’ll also keep all your gear away from prying eyes.
Truck Toolbox

If you plan to haul a bunch of tools while off-roading, nothing can beat a good truck toolbox. These sturdy storage containers keep all your tools in one place while also preventing them from flying every which way when you’re barreling down a new unexplored road. Truck toolboxes attach straight to the truck bed to keep them secure. This means that they’ll take up a big chunk of the truck bed’s space, but if you’re bringing tools for every possible circumstance with you, it’ll be more than worth the space.
Nerf Bars or Running Boards

Getting a nerf bar or a running board can help you get in and out of your Tacoma no matter what terrain you park on. These accessories are more for accessibility, but whether you’re off the beaten trail or on a paved driveway, having a leg up never hurt anyone.
Floor Mats

You can fully expect to track dirt and mud into your Tacoma while off-roading. Having the right floor mats can save you a lot of cleanup. For example, WeatherTech’s heavy-duty floor mats are specifically designed to catch and hold all the muck you might pick up on the trail. They’re also easy to clean with a simple hose down.
Light Bar and Off-Road Lights

Getting the right off-road lights for your adventures can mean the difference between driving around safely and being stuck crawling through an area in low light. Challenging terrains can be especially tricky in the dark, and bad weather conditions can make things even worse. Having a good light bar and off-road lights means you can be prepared no matter the circumstance. These lights are excellent for everyday driving problems too. For example, having rear-facing type fog lights is helpful in case you have to back up in the dark.
Just remember that not all off-road lights are street legal. Avoid using them on public roads unless they’re approved by the Department of Transportation and the Society of Automobile Engineers.
Where to Get Off-Road Accessories for Your Toyota Tacoma
Now that you know the best off-road accessories for your Toyota Tacoma, it’s time to shop at a place you can trust.
The JC Whitney Performance Parts + Accessories Hub is here to help. It’s your new go-to place for all things off-roading. If you’re looking for restoration parts or the latest upgrades, you’ll find some of the best names in the business right here. Our hub has everything from lift kits to lighting, so shop now.
You can also pick up a set of JC Whitney premium tools to install all your shiny new Toyota Tacoma accessories. These tools are designed for your workspace, whether personal garage or a professional shop. Grab a set of JC Whitney tools today.