One of the most inviting aspects of overlanding is being able to get out far away from city life in order to explore the scenery and terrain that nature has to offer. Being away from traditional campground amenities means you will need to pack in and take out everything necessary for your overland trip. The idea is to use your off-road capable vehicle as your base camp, accessorizing it with the tools, supplies, your tent and other gear that you may need.
The essentials are similar to what one would pack for a traditional camping trip combined with off-roading. And with a rise in popularity in recent years; an entire industry has spawned to create overland vehicle-specific gear.
Written by Jason Mulligan of DrivingLine, the following story is provided in partnership with Nitto Tire USA. @NittoTire
To get started in overlanding; you don’t necessarily need the wild, off-road rig that you may think you do. In fact, one of the more recent trends in the overland market has been the outfitting of capable crossover SUVs for what is termed softroading. This proves that with just a few minor mods, the right gear, and some preparation, overlanding is attainable and can be a great entry into the off-road world. However, this doesn’t mean that a Honda Civic will cut it; as a few basic requirements to tackle off-road terrain is ground clearance and 4WD.
Emergency Gear
The most important gear is the least likely to be used but the most important to have on any trip. The ‘just in case’ emergency gear should include everything needed to get you out of a jam while on the trail. This applies to both you and your vehicle.
Recovery Gear
Being able to get your rig unstuck on the trail enables you to explore even more terrain. Installing a bumper-mounted winch, carrying a jack and a set of traction boards can be great insurance against having to abandon your rig until someone can pull you out.
It is recommended to use a winch that is rated 1.5 times the weight of your vehicle. Tools, a tire repair kit, and zip ties should also be included to make trailside repairs if needed.
Battery Jump Starter
While you may not have your fridge cooler and off-road lights on while setting up at camp; the constant opening of doors and your SUV hatch puts a drain on your battery. A small power pack can jump your car battery back to life and charge your cell phone while you are at it.
Camping
We could write a whole series on just camping supplies and gear; from cooking setups to chairs and sleeping bags. But we will stick to the theme of overlanding and cover the basics when it comes to outfitting your rig for an overnight stay.
Awnings
Installing an awning to your roof rack means being able to use your rig for shade from the sun without needing to haul a huge standalone canopy along. And you can attach a room to the awning to create a tent!
Water Needs
It is recommended to carry at least 1 gallon of water per person per day of your trip (don’t forget about your pets too). Naturally, you will want some water for cooking, cleaning, and emergencies as well. Attaching a water jug to your rack or ladder frees up space inside for the rest of your gear.
Storage
The more extended trips you take, the more you will come to appreciate having proper storage and organization for all of your gear. Throwing everything in the back at once…will only happen once. Prioritize what you will take with you and create different sections for easy access and loading. For example, emergency gear should be easily accessible but shouldn’t get in the way of your camping or off-road gear. Keeping some basic gear inside of your rig at all times may aid in quicker loading up for your trip.
But plugging a fridge cooler into your truck or SUV not only ensures constant cooling on longer trips but increases your food storage capacity as you don’t need to fill it up with bags of ice or ice packs.
Electronics
Usually, being out in nature means getting away from the electronic distractions of the world. But a few gadgets can be necessary including communications, navigation, and entertainment needs. Having a stout power station that can handle all of these comes in handy, especially when they can be recharged themselves using solar panels or plugged into your vehicle. It can even power your fridge cooler at camp!
Beyond using your phone, a dedicated GPS navigation such as the Garmin Overland ensures full access without the need for cell coverage.
Tires
One of the basic needs for off-roading and overlanding is a tougher tire than what came factory on your rig. Having an off-road style tread design and shoulder provides increased traction. Oversizing your tires provides more ground clearance and traction while the additional sidewall allows you to air down in order to gain even more traction and comfort while off-road.
Air Supply
Even on tame fire roads and well-traveled trails, it is suggested to reduce your tire pressure, or air down as it is more commonly known. Not only does this provide more traction but makes the ride more comfortable. When your adventure is over and you are ready to hit the highway back home…you will want to quickly air up your tires.
The best option we have found is having an on-demand air supply such as a Power Tank for filling up in a fraction of the time. It also allows you to run air tools and fill up air mattresses thanks to holding higher air pressure than most compressors. The downside is the air tank needs to be refilled. Air compressors take more time to fill up your tires but are always ready, so it is good to keep a small one as a backup.
Chances are the more trips you start to take, the more you will learn what is needed to outfit your vehicle in order to not limit where you go, what you can do, and how comfortable you are. You will likely also learn what is just taking up extra space and weight.
The following story is provided in partnership with Nitto Tire USA.
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