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Why the Right Accessories Transform Your ARB CKMP12 Setup
The ARB CKMP12 is one of the most respected portable 12-volt air compressors in the overlanding community — compact enough to stow behind a seat, powerful enough to air up a set of 35-inch tires at the end of a trail day. But the compressor itself is only one piece of the puzzle. To get the most out of it on remote trails, you need a supporting ecosystem: reliable tire deflators to air down quickly before hitting sand or rock, a recovery strap for when things go sideways, a communication radio for convoy runs, and the knowledge to build a truly capable rig. This guide curates the accessories and companion gear that pair naturally with the CKMP12, so you can spend less time fiddling with equipment and more time exploring.
Best for: Overlanders, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone who airs down on trails and needs reliable re-inflation
The Compressor Itself: ARB CKMP12 Portable Air Compressor
Before diving into accessories, it’s worth understanding why the ARB CKMP12 has earned its reputation. This 12-volt portable compressor delivers a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI and a flow rate that ARB rates high enough to handle 35-inch tires without excessive wait times. It connects directly to your vehicle’s battery via heavy-duty clamps, and the unit ships with a carry bag, inflation hose, and a set of inflation accessories for sports equipment and air mattresses.
Verified reviewers consistently praise the CKMP12’s build quality — the die-cast aluminum cylinder and Teflon-impregnated carbon-fiber piston seal are frequently cited as reasons owners trust it in harsh conditions. The integrated pressure gauge and auto-shutoff feature let you set a target pressure and walk away, which is a genuine convenience when you’re airing up four tires after a long day on the trail.
On the downside, reviewers note that the CKMP12 runs warm during extended use and recommend duty-cycle breaks on hot days. Some users also wish the included hose were longer, which is why aftermarket hose extensions are a popular first upgrade. The unit is also heavier than budget compressors, though most owners consider that a fair trade for durability. If you’re considering the newer brushless alternative, our review of the ARB CKBLTP12 breaks down the key differences.
Who should buy it: Anyone building a serious overlanding or off-road setup who wants a compressor they can rely on for years of trail use.
Automatic Tire Deflator Kit (4-Pack, Auto-Stop 10–30 PSI)
Airing down is the single most impactful thing you can do before hitting sand, mud, or rocky terrain — and doing it manually with a stick gauge and valve core tool is tedious. This 4-pack of automatic tire deflators threads onto your valve stems and bleeds air until a pre-set target pressure is reached, then stops automatically. The adjustable range covers 10–30 PSI, which spans the sweet spot for most off-road scenarios from beach driving to moderate rock crawling.
Reviewers appreciate the time savings: screw all four onto your tires, go set up camp or check your recovery gear, and come back to perfectly matched pressures across all four corners. The brass construction and knurled adjustment knobs get positive marks for durability and ease of use with gloved hands. Several reviewers note that calibration can drift slightly over time and recommend verifying with a quality gauge after the first few uses.
The main criticism is that on very cold mornings the deflation can be slower than expected, and some users report needing to re-calibrate after a season of heavy use. Still, for the convenience of hands-free, consistent airing down — especially when paired with the CKMP12 for airing back up — this kit is a natural companion.
Who should buy it: Off-roaders who air down frequently and want consistent, hands-free deflation across all four tires.
Midland MXT275VP4 15-Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio
When you’re running trails in a convoy — especially in areas with no cell service — reliable communication isn’t optional. The Midland MXT275VP4 is a 15-watt GMRS MicroMobile radio that mounts in your cab and delivers significantly more range than handheld walkie-talkies. The kit includes the radio unit, an external magnetic-mount antenna, a hand microphone, and mounting hardware, making it a fairly complete out-of-the-box solution.
Overlanding forums and verified reviewers highlight the radio’s clear audio quality and its ability to reach several miles in hilly terrain — a dramatic improvement over the sub-mile range typical of bubble-pack FRS radios. The compact form factor fits easily on a dash or overhead console, and the 15 repeater channels extend range further if you’re near a GMRS repeater.
The most common complaint is that the included antenna, while functional, isn’t as capable as a dedicated fiberglass whip antenna, so serious users often upgrade. You’ll also need a GMRS license from the FCC (a straightforward online application that covers your entire family). Some reviewers mention that the mounting bracket could be sturdier for washboard roads, suggesting supplemental Velcro or a custom bracket.
Who should buy it: Convoy-running overlanders and off-roaders who need reliable beyond-cell-range communication. If you’re also outfitting your rig with a Garmin inReach for satellite messaging, this radio handles the real-time voice side of things.
Overlanding Vehicle Builder’s Guide
Gear is important, but knowledge is what keeps you safe and capable on remote trails. The Overlanding Vehicle Builder’s Guide is a comprehensive reference that walks readers through vehicle selection, suspension upgrades, electrical systems, storage solutions, and — critically — air system integration. Understanding how your CKMP12 fits into a broader electrical and air system (including onboard vs. portable mounting decisions, wiring gauge requirements, and fuse protection) can save you from costly mistakes.
Reviewers praise the book’s practical, no-nonsense approach. It covers a wide range of vehicle platforms and doesn’t assume you’re starting with a brand-new rig. The sections on electrical planning are frequently cited as especially valuable for DIY builders who want to wire compressors, fridges, and lighting without overtaxing their charging system.
On the downside, some readers note that the book leans toward North American trails and vehicle platforms, so international overlanders may find certain sections less applicable. A few reviewers also wished for more detailed coverage of modern lithium battery systems, though the fundamentals remain sound. As a reference to keep in your rig or on your workbench during build-out, it’s hard to beat.
Who should buy it: DIY overlanding builders who want a structured, reliable reference for planning and executing vehicle modifications — especially those integrating air systems, electrical upgrades, and storage.
Straight Jacket Crew 3″ × 20′ Heavy Duty Recovery Tow Strap
No matter how well you air down and pick your lines, eventually you’ll need a recovery strap — or someone near you will. The Straight Jacket Crew 3″ × 20′ recovery strap is rated at 30,000 pounds of break strength, which provides a healthy safety margin for full-size trucks and SUVs. The nylon construction offers controlled stretch that absorbs shock loads during a snatch recovery, reducing stress on both vehicles’ frames and recovery points.
Verified reviewers highlight the reinforced loop ends and the overall stitching quality as confidence-inspiring. The 20-foot length is considered a good all-around choice — long enough to keep the recovery vehicle on solid ground in most scenarios, short enough to store without taking up excessive space. Several reviewers mention pairing it with soft shackles rather than metal D-rings for added safety.
The most common criticism is that, like all nylon straps, it should be inspected regularly for UV degradation and abrasion damage, especially if stored in an open bed or on an exterior mount. A few reviewers also note that the strap can be stiff when new and benefits from a few uses to break in. Keeping this in your rig alongside the CKMP12 means you’re prepared for both the routine (airing up) and the unexpected (getting unstuck).
Who should buy it: Any off-roader or overlander who ventures beyond pavement — recovery gear isn’t optional, it’s essential safety equipment.
How These Accessories Work Together
The beauty of this kit list is that each piece addresses a different phase of the off-road experience:
1. Before the trail: Use the automatic tire deflators to air down all four tires to your target PSI — quickly, consistently, and hands-free. 2. On the trail: Stay in contact with your convoy via the Midland GMRS radio. If someone gets stuck, deploy the recovery strap. 3. After the trail: Connect the ARB CKMP12 to your battery and air all four tires back up to highway pressure before hitting pavement. 4. Back in the garage: Reference the Overlanding Vehicle Builder’s Guide to plan your next upgrade — whether that’s a permanent compressor mount, a dual-battery system, or a full storage solution.
This workflow covers the core needs of any overlanding trip, and each product earns its place in your rig without redundancy.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your CKMP12
- Carry a spare hose and fittings. The CKMP12’s included hose is adequate, but a longer coiled hose makes airing up dual-rear-wheel trucks or trailers much easier.
- Respect the duty cycle. ARB recommends allowing the compressor to cool between extended runs. On hot days, air up two tires, take a break, then do the other two.
- Protect the unit. A padded case or a dedicated mounting bracket in your cargo area prevents the compressor from bouncing around on rough roads.
- Use a quality gauge. The built-in gauge is useful, but a separate digital tire gauge lets you double-check pressures for accuracy.
- Keep battery clamps clean. Corroded clamps mean voltage drop, which means slower inflation and harder starts. A quick wipe before each use goes a long way.
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How We Research
We have not personally tested, owned, or handled any of the products in this guide. Our recommendations are based on a thorough synthesis of manufacturer specifications, official product documentation, and verified customer and expert reviews from Amazon, overlanding forums, and established automotive publications. We cross-reference common praise and complaints across multiple sources to present an honest, balanced picture. Our goal is to save you research time — not to fabricate hands-on experience we don’t have.
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