Ram Mount Camera Test on Jeep Windshield

A Jeep Momma Review

As an avid off-roader and Jeep enthusiast, I'm always searching for reliable gear to enhance my Jeep adventures. Recently, I upgraded my camera setup with a new suction cup mount designed specifically for the windshield of my Jeep Wrangler. After extensive research, I chose the Ram Mount, renowned among off-roaders for its durability, versatility, and rugged performance.

Ram Mount attached to Jeep windshield

Trail-Tested Performance

I put this mount through the ultimate test during a wheeling adventure at Rausch Creek Off-Road Park. Despite initial skepticism from fellow Jeepers about the mount’s ability to withstand rugged terrain, I'm thrilled to report that the Ram Mount exceeded all expectations.

Unshakeable Stability

The suction cup adhered firmly and securely to my Wrangler's windshield, maintaining a rock-solid grip throughout the off-road excursion. Even during challenging obstacles, rocky terrain, and significant vibrations, the Ram Mount held my camera securely in place, allowing me to capture smooth and worry-free trail footage

Versatile Positioning

One of the standout features of the Ram Mount is its adjustability. The ball-and-socket design allowed me to easily fine-tune the camera angle, ensuring I could frame my shots perfectly regardless of the terrain.

Long-Term Reliability

My Rausch Creek adventure was a true testament to the mount's capabilities, it's worth noting that Ram Mounts have a reputation for longevity. In fact, I have been using this mount for seven years and counting without any issues. This suction cup is my go-to mounting solution for mounting my camera on my windshield. This level of reliability is crucial for off-road enthusiasts who demand gear that can withstand the test of time and harsh conditions.

👉  Wheeling with My New Ram Mount

7 Reasons Every Mom Should Be a Jeep Mom

Being a Jeep Mom Changed My Life

Becoming a Jeep Mom on Memorial Day 2013 changed my life. It reignited my sense of adventure and gave me a new kind of freedom one I never found in a minivan.

My Jeep helped me rediscover joy in the ordinary, gave me confidence I didn’t know I needed, and brought incredible friendships into my life.

Over the years, my list of reasons to be a Jeep Mom has grown, and now I’m sharing the top seven reasons every mom should experience the Jeep life at least once.

2013 Jeep Momma and Jeep

1. It's Good for the Soul

Every mom needs something that lifts her spirit and for me, that was my Jeep.
Driving with the top down is pure therapy. Wind in your hair, sun on your face, music blasting… it’s rejuvenation you can’t get from sitting in your driveway scrolling Pinterest.

Your Jeep becomes your escape, your breath of fresh air, and your reminder that you matter too.

Selfie with Jeep

2. No More Carpool Duty

Tired of hauling around other people’s sticky, loud, pretzel-crumb-dropping kids?

A Jeep Wrangler is the perfect car-pool exit strategy.

With limited seating and tighter space in the back, you’ll never be the default carpool mom again. No more spilled juice boxes. No more “Are we there yet?” chaos. Just peace—and your own kids (maybe).

3. Snow Days Become Your Days

When school gets canceled and the kids are bouncing off the walls, having a Jeep means you don’t have to be stuck inside.

Instead of being trapped at home listening to “Moooom, I’m bored!”, you can:

• Leave the kids with dad

• Grab your keys

• Head out for “Mommy 4x4 Time”

Fresh tracks + quiet snowy trails = sanity saver.

Jeep tires in the snow

4. Built-In “Calgon Take Me Away” Moments

Remember the old Calgon commercials?
Well, moms don’t need bubble baths—we need the Jeep top-down reset button.

When life feels overwhelming, a topless Jeep ride melts away stress faster than any scented bath bomb. It’s freedom, joy, and “me time” all rolled into one.

Warning: Once you go topless, you’ll never want a boring mom-mobile again.

Topless driving in Jeep 

WARNING: Once you go "Topless" you are not going to want to go back to your plain old Soccer Mom car again! Take it from me, a Jeep owner, buying a Jeep was the best vehicle purchase I have ever made. I am feeling younger, and enjoying the simple things in life. 

5. Off-Roading Builds Confidence and Strength

A year after I bought my Jeep, I took an off-road lesson and it changed everything.

Off-roading became my newfound passion. It challenged me, pushed my limits, and gave me a sense of empowerment I didn’t expect. Tackling rocky trails in my Jeep made me feel strong, capable, and fearless.

As moms, we’re used to advocating for our kids and carrying a mental load a mile long.
But off-roading gives us something different:
A challenge that belongs entirely to us.

6. DIY Modifications Offer Accomplishment and Creativity

I wanted my Jeep to look unique but my budget didn’t agree.
So I turned my garage into my workshop and started doing my own modifications.

With help from the Jeep community and lots of learning along the way, I installed my own sliders, added accessories, and created a Jeep that felt truly mine.

There’s something empowering about turning a wrench and seeing your own hard work on your vehicle. You don’t just drive your Jeep you build it.

I installed my own sliders. 

7. It Boosts Self-Esteem in a Powerful Way

As a stay-at-home mom reentering the workforce after 15 years, my confidence was low. But being able to modify my Jeep, wheel it on challenging trails, and tackle obstacles I once found intimidating gave me a renewed sense of self.

My Jeep helped me rediscover:

• Confidence

• Independence

• Courage

• Personal identity

It reminded me I am strong, capable, and worthy of adventure.

FAQ: Is a Jeep Wrangler a good vehicle for moms?

Yes! Jeep Wranglers offer capability, confidence, and versatility that many moms love. They’re fun to drive, great in bad weather, easy to customize, and perfect for moms who want adventure beyond the school drop-off line.

FAQ: Are Jeep Wranglers safe for families?

Modern Jeep Wranglers come with advanced safety features, solid construction, and excellent visibility. While they’re designed for off-road capability, they’re also reliable everyday vehicles for moms with active lifestyles.

FAQ: Are Jeep Wranglers practical for kids?

They can be! The back seat fits child seats, and the upright seating position makes loading kids easier. While storage space is smaller than an SUV, it’s perfect for families who don’t need massive cargo room.

FAQ: Is it expensive to own a Jeep Wrangler?

Maintenance on the Wrangler is straightforward, often DIY-friendly, and supported by a strong Jeep community. Modifications can add cost, but regular upkeep is typically affordable.

FAQ: Can beginners learn to off-road in a Wrangler?

Absolutely. The Wrangler is one of the best beginner-friendly off-road vehicles. With great ground clearance, 4x4 capability, and an enormous support community, moms can learn safely and confidently.

FAQ: Can I really drive a Jeep topless in cold weather?

Yes! With the Wrangler’s powerful heating system and proper clothing, topless winter drives are totally doable—and incredibly refreshing.

FAQ: Why do so many moms love driving Jeeps?

Jeep ownership boosts confidence, encourages adventure, builds community, and creates a sense of independence many moms crave. It’s not just a vehicle—it’s a lifestyle.

Off-Road Adventure with NORA

A Day of Fun and Learning

Northeast Off-Road Adventures (NORA) operates a low-speed, off-road driving school in the picturesque Catskill Mountains near Ellenville, NY. This 4x4 school helps you master the art of driving your Jeep or other street-legal 4x4 vehicles. With certified I4WETA 4WD trainers, NORA offers an incredible learning experience that’s both fun and informative.

Jeep Trail Ride break

A Day at NORA: Classroom and Trails

I was lucky to be able to attend this event to have more training. These folks came to the local off-road park I wheeled at, and even though I'm not an off-road beginner, I firmly believe there's always something new to learn.

The day kicked off with a two-hour "classroom" style session focusing on technique, vehicle preservation, and safety. This foundational knowledge is crucial, especially for those new to off-roading. After soaking up all that valuable information, it was time to hit the trails.

Classroom Style Off-road Training

Hitting the Trails: Green Trails for Beginners

For most of the ladies, this was their first time off-road in their vehicles. We stuck to the green trails, which allowed them to get acquainted with their vehicles, understand their capabilities, and build confidence in their driving skills.

Hood shot of Green 4x4 Trail

Advanced Techniques: Learning Never Stops

For me, it was an opportunity to hone my "See a rock, put a wheel on it" skills. Even though I have wheeled several times before, I still learned new things. The certified trainers at NORA 4x4 shared so many great driving techniques that I couldn't help but be impressed.

Selfie with Jeeps on the trail

Valuable Off-Road Tips and Tricks

Here are some fantastic tips and tricks I picked up during the day:

• Leave Your Keys in the Ignition: When you get out to check out other Jeepers climbing over obstacles, always leave your keys in the ignition. Also, keep an extra set of keys in your center console. You never know when you might lose your keys in the woods or rocks.

• Stay Leaned with Your Jeep: When you're off-camber, keep your back in the seat and lean with the Jeep. This helps you get used to being off-camber and avoids giving you a false sense of stability.

• Wheel Locks Caution: If you use wheel locks, ensure you have the key. Consider removing them and using the OEM lug nuts before hitting the trails to avoid losing the key in the rocks.

• 360 Inspection: Always perform a 360-degree inspection before and after your trip. Look for brake line leaks and branches in places they shouldn't be.

• Handling Sticky Situations: When your wheel just spins and spins, don’t let those tires keep spinning. Before using lockers, try turning the tires in a different direction or backing up and changing your approach. On the trails with NORA 4x4 👉Watch Here  

It was an amazing day on the mountain with great people, having fun in my Jeep. And you know what? Even though I'm not a beginner, I still learned new things.

My Jeep

9 Reasons Jeep Wranglers Are the Coolest Adventure Vehicles

If you’ve ever driven a Jeep Wrangler, you already know—it’s more than a vehicle. It’s a lifestyle. After more than a decade of wheeling, wrenching, and living the Jeep life, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 9 reasons the Wrangler stands far above everything else on (and off) the road.

9. A Heating System That Works Harder Than You Think

Wranglers may be rugged, but their heating systems are incredibly powerful. That’s a lifesaver when you live in a place with real winter hello, Wyoming & Minnesota!

I’ve gone topless in below-zero temps, and with the heater blasting, a warm hat, and the right gear, it’s surprisingly comfortable. Jeep life isn’t just for summer.

Topless in January

8. A Trunk You Can Customize to Fit Your Lifestyle

Every Jeeper uses their rig differently, and the Wrangler makes custom storage simple:

• Use the under-seat compartments for recovery gear, blankets, or tools

• Add locking trunk systems for top-down security

• Build your own custom drawers or hidden storage

• Use aftermarket shelves, dividers, and racks

For ideas, check out My Top 5 Storage Ideas blog post. 

7. Fewer Seats = No More Carpool Duty

One beautiful side effect of owning a Wrangler Unlimited?

Only five seatbelts.

That means you can only haul three kids in the back so you’re not the designated carpool parent anymore. No more bragging battles, whining, or “Are we there yet?” chaos.

Just peace. And Jeeping.

6. Exceptional Resale Value

Wranglers don’t just keep their value they dominate at it.

Kelley Blue Book consistently ranks Jeep near the top for best resale value, and older Wranglers often sell for more than you'd expect. Demand stays high because Wranglers are built to last and built to be loved.

Jeep Wranglers hold their value. 

5. Proudly Made in America

There’s heritage behind a Wrangler. From its military roots to today’s 4x4 freedom machines, Jeep continues its legacy of American manufacturing.

It’s more than a vehicle it’s a piece of history.

4. Endless Ways to Make Your Jeep Uniquely Yours

If you can dream it, there’s a mod for it. Lift kits, armor, bumpers, fenders, lighting, wheels, soft tops, and every type of accessory you can imagine.

Whether your Jeep life includes:

• Rock crawling

• Mud bogging

• Beach cruising

• Mountain trails

• Or simply enjoying fresh air topless

There’s no wrong way to build your Jeep.

If you want inspiration, explore my Jeep Momma's Modifications page.

My Jeep Stock

3. Simple, Straightforward Design

One of my favorite things about the Wrangler is how simple it is compared to today’s tech-heavy vehicles.

• Fewer electronics = fewer expensive repairs

• Easy DIY maintenance

• A huge community ready to help you learn

• Lift and wrench parties (just bring a six-pack!)

Even the soft top is easy. No motors. No switches. No “what if it breaks?” worries. Once you’ve done it a couple of times, you can have it down in under five minutes.

2. Built for Adventure: Go Anywhere, Do Anything

The Jeep motto isn’t just a slogan—Wranglers truly can go anywhere and do anything.

Between the 4x4 system, short wheelbase, ground clearance, and true off-road DNA, the Wrangler is one of the most capable vehicles ever built.

Mine took me places I never expected:

• Mud

• Sand

• Snow

• Rocky mountain trails

• Stream crossings

• Remote backroads

I wasn’t even interested in off-roading when I bought my Jeep. But after my first trail ride, I was hooked. The adrenaline, the challenge, the “I can’t believe my Jeep just did that!” moments—it’s addicting.

If you’re looking to develop skills, I recommend Off-Road Consulting for training.

On the Trails

1. The Jeep Family: A Community Like No Other

Yes, the freedom of going topless is incredible—but the Jeep community is truly #1.

When you buy a Wrangler, you instantly join a nationwide family. You’ll meet new friends:

• At Jeep events

• On trails

• In parking lots

• On social media

• Through Jeep clubs

• And with every Jeep Wave

No other vehicle creates this sense of belonging. It’s a Jeep thing… and only Jeepers understand.

Bonus: The Joy of Driving Topless

It's not part of the “official” nine, but it deserves its own spotlight.

Taking the top down is a pure, instant stress relief. Wind in your hair, sun on your face, radio blasting, it’s my zen moment.

Even in winter, with the heater on high and the right gear, you can still enjoy that topless freedom.

Topless & Naked Jeep

FAQs

Are Jeep Wranglers good for daily driving?

Yes. Wranglers are excellent daily drivers especially in snow, rain, and rugged conditions. The visibility and 4x4 capability make them dependable year-round.

Do Jeep Wranglers hold their value?

Absolutely. Jeep consistently ranks near the top in best resale value, and Wranglers often sell for more than comparable SUVs.

Is a Jeep Wrangler a good first off-road vehicle?

Yes. The Wrangler is beginner-friendly with strong capability and a massive community ready to help you learn.

How hard is it to remove the Wrangler soft top?

It’s easier than most people think. No electronics just latches and fabric. You can get it down in a few minutes with practice.

Why do Jeep owners wave at each other?

The Jeep Wave is a long-standing tradition and a fun way to acknowledge fellow Jeepers on the road.