Overlanding is a fun and exciting way to explore the world. It’s also an adventure that can be tackled by anyone with a vehicle and some gear.
In this post, we’re going to break down the basics of what you need to get started overlanding, from beginning with your vehicle all the way through getting equipped with creature comforts. Ready?
Let’s go!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| 1. Overlanding is an adventurous travel style focused on self-reliance and exploring remote areas. |
| 2. Choosing the right vehicle is crucial for a successful overlanding experience. Consider off-road capabilities, storage space, and endurance. |
| 3. Proper trip planning involves selecting destinations, determining routes, researching camping spots, obtaining permits, and creating detailed itineraries. |
| 4. Essential equipment for overlanding includes camping gear, recovery tools, spare parts, navigation devices, communication devices, first aid supplies, and extra fuel and water. |
| 5. Safety is of utmost importance in overlanding. Practice safe driving, stay aware of weather conditions, carry proper safety equipment, and maintain your vehicle regularly. |
Begin With The Vehicle
The most important thing to remember when looking for your first off-road vehicle is that it needs to be capable of handling the terrain you’re planning on going into.
There are many factors to consider when looking at a new vehicle, including what type of terrain you’ll be driving through and how much money you want to spend on maintenance.
The last thing you want is having your vehicle break down in the middle of nowhere because it wasn’t up to the task!
If comfort is important to you, then make sure it’s comfortable enough for long-term use. If not, there are plenty other options out there that might be more suited toward shorter trips or shorter overlanding excursions (more on this later).
Safety is also incredibly important since we’ll be driving through some pretty remote places where help isn’t always available so definitely pick something with good crash ratings (just don’t expect them all).
You’ll also want an off-road ready suspension system; locking differentials; skid plates; heavy duty tires; brush guards around headlights/taillights; recovery points such as tow hooks under each tire; storage space inside cabin area behind seat(s) or cargo racks on top (if applicable);
Roof rack mounts or crossbars if weight limit isn’t exceeded by adding extra items like rooftop tents or sleeping bags/tables/chairs etc.; heavy duty winch cable with mounting plate installed near front bumper just in case someone gets stuck somewhere out there but doesn’t have any tools handy!
Building a support system for your overlanding adventures is crucial. Our guide on choosing the right off-road vehicle for overlanding provides invaluable insights into selecting the perfect vehicle based on your needs and preferences.
Understand Suspension And Tires
Before you hit the road, it’s important to understand the differences in four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive vehicles.
While most four-wheel drives have both low range and high range modes, a two-wheel drive vehicle can only be used in low range.
The differentials are also very important to understand. If you do not know what they are or how they work, this will make it difficult for you to choose an appropriate vehicle for your needs.
All of these things will be easier once you learn about suspension systems and tires. Some vehicles use coil springs while others use leaf springs or torsion bars (also called sway bars).
Suspension and Tires: Enhancing Off-Road Performance
| Aspect | Suggested Upgrades |
|---|---|
| Suspension | |
| Upgrade shocks and struts | Bilstein, Fox, Old Man Emu |
| Install lift kit | Rancho, ICON, ARB |
| Consider air suspension | ARB, Air Lift, Firestone |
| Tires | |
| Choose all-terrain tires | BFGoodrich, Goodyear, Cooper |
| Opt for mud-terrain tires | Toyo, Nitto, Falken |
| Consider beadlock wheels for off-road traction | Fuel Off-Road, Method Race Wheels, KMC Wheels |
| Additional Tips | |
| Align suspension for improved handling | |
| Check tire pressure regularly | |
| Rotate and balance tires to ensure even wear |
Pick The Perfect Camping Trailer
When choosing a camping trailer, you want to consider the following:
What size camping trailer do you need? There are three options here: small, medium, and large. The smallest trailers (usually 8 feet by 8 feet) fit in the bed of a pickup truck and are ideal for solo users who want to go on day trips or overnight hikes with their dogs.
Mid-sized trailers (about 10 feet by 12 feet) can hold two people plus some equipment such as bikes or kayaks; these are perfect for families that like spending their weekends away from home.
Larger versions are available as well—they’re typically 15 feet long and up, but they provide plenty of room for up to six people and all their gear!
If you plan on taking longer trips with friends or family members then this is probably your best bet because it’ll allow everyone enough space inside while also offering amenities like bathrooms that would otherwise be impossible without having multiple bathrooms installed in your house at home.”
Embark on unforgettable journeys with confidence by exploring our list of the best places to overland in North America. Discover stunning destinations that will make your overlanding experience truly remarkable.
Pick The Perfect Tent
The right tent can make or break your overlanding experience. There are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Weight: Make sure you choose a lightweight tent that won’t be too much of an added burden on your vehicle or yourself.
Durability: A durable tent will withstand winds and weather better than an inferior model.
Set-up time: How easy is it for one person to set up the tent? If you’re going solo and don’t have someone else help out (or if it’s raining), this becomes critical information!
Rainfly: Even if your main body of the tent is waterproof, there may be leaks around seams where the rainflies attach or through vents in doors (for example).
The rainfly should cover these areas as well as possible so that no water gets inside and ruins all of your stuff – especially important when camping during monsoon season!
Selecting the Ideal Overlanding Tent
| Tent Brand | Features | Capacity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roofnest Falcon | Lightweight, aerodynamic design, waterproof, easy setup, built-in mattress | 2-3 persons | $1,195 – $3,295 |
| Tepui Autana 4 | Durable material, extended vestibule, mesh panels, foam mattress, mosquito netting | 3-4 persons | $1,849 – $2,649 |
| Smittybilt Overlander XL | Heavy-duty, waterproof, high-density foam mattress, LED strip interior lighting | 3-4 persons | $1,000 – $1,300 |
| James Baroud Evasion | Quick setup (under 30 seconds), aerodynamic design, multipurpose awning, insulated walls | 2-3 persons | $3,699 – $4,499 |
| ARB Simpson III | Easy setup, weatherproof, large windows, built-in LED light strip, thick foam mattress | 2-3 persons | $1,399 – $1,599 |
Be Prepared For Emergencies
No matter how many times you’ve done it, there’s always a chance that you will be stranded. Be prepared for the worst with these items in your car:
- First aid kit (and know how to use it)
- Fire extinguisher
- Tow rope or strap and jack and lug wrench
- Jumper cables
Preparation is key when venturing off-road. Dive into our comprehensive guide on preparing for an off-road adventure to ensure you have the knowledge and equipment needed for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Stock The Perfect Cooler
Overlanding is all about adventure, but the best adventures come with the right supplies. Stock your cooler with the following:
Water – A gallon per person per day is a good rule of thumb. You can also add a few cans of soda or beer to mix things up!
Juice boxes – Kids love juice boxes and they’re easy for parents to pack and carry around as well as being refreshing on hot days.
Snacks – Granola bars, crackers and cheese sticks will do the trick when you don’t want a full meal. If you have kids, maybe pack some fruit pouches too!
Ice packs – Make sure they fit inside your cooler so that they keep things cool while in transit! Pack extra ice if it looks like we might be out longer than expected (ex: camping trip).
Optimal Overlanding Coolers
| Cooler Brand | Features | Capacity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yeti Tundra | Rotomolded construction, excellent insulation, durable, bear-resistant, tie-down slots | 20-350 quarts | $199 – $1,299 |
| Engel DeepBlue | Rugged, roto-molded design, excellent ice retention, seamless construction, non-slip feet | 25-320 quarts | $299 – $1,099 |
| Dometic CFX | Powered cooler, dual-zone temperature control, energy-efficient, WiFi-enabled, USB port for charging | 35-100 quarts | $649 – $1,299 |
| RTIC Cooler | Heavy-duty construction, foam insulation, non-slip feet, integrated locking system | 20-145 quarts | $115 – $449 |
| Pelican Elite | High-quality insulation, sturdy latches, rugged construction, lifetime guarantee | 20-150 quarts | $249 – $779 |
Bring Some Creature Comforts From Home
This is a great way to make your trip more comfortable. If you’re bringing a tent or hammock, bring one large enough for two people and sleep bags as well—you’ll be glad you did!
- A pillow
- A blanket (or two!)
- A book or journal for writing about your trip
- A camera for taking pictures of nature along the way
If you have room in your car, these items can help make life on the road more comfortable:
Laptop or tablet with an external battery pack to charge phones overnight, or a phone charger that plugs into the cigarette lighter socket in your car’s dashboard; if needed, consider bringing an extra charging cord so one person can charge while driving.
Keep in mind that many states have road laws against using phones while driving, so don’t use them while driving unless absolutely necessary!
Also consider getting some sort of reliable communication method so that everyone knows where everyone else is at all times (this can include old-fashioned paper maps and notebooks).
Elevate your overlanding experience with our ultimate guide to outfitting your off-road vehicle. Learn about essential equipment, accessories, and modifications that will optimize the capabilities and comfort of your vehicle.
Get Ready For The Groceries.
To get started, you’ll need to stock up on a few things that will make your trip easier. You’ll want to bring a cooler or ice packs (more on why later) so that you can keep your food safe and fresh.
You’ll also want to consider bringing along a camping stove and cookware so that you can fix meals for yourself, as well as utensils for eating them.
If possible, make sure that all of these items come with their own carrying cases or bags so they’re easy to transport from place to place.
Finally, don’t forget about ways of keeping everything cool! Even if it’s hot outside during the day and cool at night which is usually how overlanding trips go you’re still going to need some way of preserving the contents of your cooler when it gets hot out there under the suns (or moons… depending on where in space this hypothetical overlanding trip takes place).
Bring plenty of ice packs along with plenty more water bottles filled with additional ice cubes or frozen fruit chunks so they’ll be there when needed instantaneously after opening up one side panel (or back hatch) while driving through various types environments throughout different regions during each leg/day/week long journey through outer space
Use A Rooftop Cargo Carrier To Get Even More Gear From Point A To Point B
Roof cargo carriers are another great way to get even more gear from point A to point B. You can store camping equipment, food, or other supplies on top of your vehicle. They are easy to install and remove when you need them, which makes them perfect for transporting large items like kayaks or bikes.
Roof cargo carriers come in a variety of sizes and styles so you can pick the model that best fits the needs of your trip.
The most common materials used for these products include plastic, aluminum and steel. Some models even include bike racks or dividers that allow you to organize your items effectively while keeping them off the ground and out of harm’s way (i.e., rocks!).
Safety should always be a top priority when exploring off the beaten path. Take a moment to read our guide on off-road driving safety to gain valuable insights and essential tips for staying safe during your off-road adventures.
Set Up A Power System To Keep Your Gear Charged On-The-Go
A power system is one of the most important components of your overland rig—and it’s arguably one of the most complex parts.
It can also be one of the most expensive, so it’s important to do your research and choose a power system that works for you. There are two main types: solar-only systems and dual battery systems, which integrate solar panels with an internal or external charging system (think generator).
A solar-only system consists solely of a group of photovoltaic (PV) panels wired together in such a way that they charge a set amount each day while you drive around.
The panels are mounted on top or behind your vehicle so they can soak up sun while you drive along well-traveled roads.
This type of system has no storage capacity except for what electricity is produced by its PV panels during daylight hours when you’re moving, so keeping them charged requires additional equipment like batteries or supercapacitors (which store energy much faster than traditional lead acid batteries).
Never Leave Without Proper Lighting Solutions
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of overlanding. It’s what allows you to see your surroundings, and it’s especially important in the dark or when driving through tunnels.
Given that you’ll likely be driving late at night or early in the morning, it’s essential you carry backup lighting on your adventure.
A good flashlight is a must-have item for overland adventurers because it will never run out of power and can provide an extra layer of safety for nighttime driving.
Have A Place To Rest In Comfort After A Long Day Of Adventure
Resting is important.
If you’re an overlander, it’s likely that you’re going to be driving for several hours at a time. You’ll want to make sure that when you do stop, you have a place where you can rest comfortably—and ideally one where there are amenities like hot water and electricity so that you can get clean and rest up before heading out again.
If possible, look for hotels or campgrounds along the way that offer all of these things (or be sure to bring them with).
Conclusion
So, what have we learned? Overlanding is a great way to get out there and explore the world around you.
It’s also an amazing opportunity to take your family on incredible adventures together. Of course, in order for any of this to happen, you need to start with the right equipment.
Your vehicle should be capable of handling rugged terrain while still being comfortable enough for long-distance travel (and camping!).
You also need good tires and suspension that can handle off-road conditions without wearing out quickly or breaking down completely while under load.
Further Reading
Overlanding 101: What It Is and How to Get Started: Explore this comprehensive guide to gain a deeper understanding of overlanding and learn valuable tips on how to begin your own overlanding adventures.
Getting Started with Overlanding: Dive into this informative article that provides essential insights and practical advice for those looking to embark on their overlanding journey.
How to Start Overlanding for Beginners: Delve into this helpful resource that offers step-by-step guidance and tips specifically designed for beginners interested in starting their overlanding adventures.
FAQs
What is overlanding?
Overlanding is a self-reliant, vehicle-based adventure travel style that involves exploring remote areas, often with an off-road capable vehicle, for an extended period of time.
What kind of vehicle do I need for overlanding?
The type of vehicle depends on personal preferences and the specific terrain you plan to explore. However, generally, vehicles with off-road capabilities, ample storage space, and endurance are preferred for overlanding.
How do I plan my first overlanding trip?
Start by selecting a destination, considering the duration of the trip, and deciding on an appropriate route. Researching camping spots, obtaining necessary permits, and preparing a detailed itinerary are crucial steps in trip planning.
What essential equipment do I need for overlanding?
Key equipment includes camping gear, recovery tools, spare parts, navigation tools, communication devices, first aid supplies, extra fuel and water, as well as appropriate clothing and cooking utensils.
How can I ensure safety during overlanding?
Safety is paramount during overlanding. It is essential to practice safe driving techniques, be prepared for emergencies, stay aware of weather conditions, carry proper safety equipment, and inform others about your itinerary. Regular vehicle maintenance is also vital to minimize risks.
Hi there! I’m Hellen James, and I’m the author of Unified Off-roads. I’ve been driving off-road for more than ten years, and I’ve had a lot of fun in that time—and a few not-so-great experiences too. But I’ve always wanted to help other people get started off-roading, so I decided to start this blog to share my knowledge with others.
