Definition of Overlanding
Overlanding is a type of self-reliant adventure travel where people travel in a vehicle, typically a 4-wheel drive SUV or truck, and camp in remote locations for extended periods. The goal of Overlanding is to explore and experience remote wilderness areas rather than just passing through them. This can include everything from backpacking in the mountains to exploring the desert to crossing a continent.
Overlanders typically carry their own supplies, including food, water, and camping gear, and are prepared for self-sufficient travel in remote areas. They often travel on dirt roads and trails and may explore wilderness areas, deserts, mountains, and other remote regions.
Overlanding is different from traditional camping or RVing, as the focus is on self-reliance, exploration, and the journey rather than just reaching a destination. It is also different from backpacking or hiking, as overlanders travel in a vehicle, allowing them to cover greater distances and explore more remote areas.
It’s a way of traveling that allows people to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.
In short, Overlanding is a form of adventure travel that combines the freedom of the open road with the thrill of exploring remote wilderness areas. It’s a way to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why Overlanding is Becoming More Popular
Overlanding has been around for decades, but it has recently seen a surge in popularity. There are several reasons why Overlanding has become more prevalent in recent years.
One reason is the growing desire for adventure and the desire to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life. Overlanding offers the opportunity to explore remote wilderness areas, far away from the distractions and stresses of modern life. It allows people to reconnect with nature and find peace and tranquility in the great outdoors.
Another reason is the increasing affordability of Overlanding. With the rise of social media and online communities, more people are learning about Overlanding and how to do it on a budget. As a result, there are now many affordable options for building/outfitting an overland vehicle and many online resources for planning and preparing for a trip.
Overlanding also appeals to many people, from families with children to solo travelers and from nature enthusiasts to adventure seekers. It’s an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, which makes it more accessible.
Lastly, with the COVID-19 pandemic, people are looking for more ways to travel safely and have more control over their itineraries and surroundings. Overlanding gives people more control over their travel experience and allows them to travel to remote locations where it’s less likely to encounter large crowds.
Overlanding is becoming more popular because it offers a unique and adventurous way to explore the great outdoors, is more affordable, and appeals to a wide range of people.
Choosing a 4-wheel Drive Vehicle for Overlanding
When it comes to Overlanding, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right vehicle. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is typically the best option for Overlanding, as it allows you to travel on various terrain, from pavement to dirt roads to rough trails.
4-wheel drive vehicles come in various shapes and sizes, from smaller SUVs to larger trucks. Some popular 4-wheel drive vehicles for Overlanding include the Toyota Land Cruiser, the Jeep Wrangler, and the Ford F-150. Choosing a vehicle that fits your needs and budget and feels comfortable driving is important.
When choosing a 4-wheel drive vehicle for Overlanding, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
Off-road capabilities: Ensure the vehicle has a 4-wheel drive system and a high clearance. This will allow you to travel on rough terrain and navigate through obstacles.
Reliability: Overlanding often occurs in remote areas, where help may take time. A reliable vehicle is essential for a successful trip.
Towing capacity: If you plan to bring along a trailer or a boat, make sure the vehicle has a high towing capacity.
Fuel economy: Overlanding trips can be long, and fuel can be expensive. A vehicle with good fuel economy will save you money in the long run.
Once you’ve chosen a 4-wheel drive vehicle, it’s important to outfit it properly for Overlanding. This may include adding a roof rack, installing a winch, and adding off-road tires. It’s also essential to have a good set of tools and spare parts in case of mechanical issues.
Traveling in a 4-wheel drive vehicle is one of the key aspects of Overlanding. It allows you to explore remote areas and get to places other vehicles can’t go. It’s also a way to have more control over your travel experience and the freedom to go where and when you want.
Carrying all necessary supplies
Carrying the necessary supplies is an essential part of Overlanding. It’s important to be prepared for any situation and to have everything you need to be self-sufficient while traveling in remote areas.
Here are some of the main supplies you’ll need to carry for an Overlanding trip:
Food and water: You’ll need to carry enough food and water for your trip. It’s critical to plan your meals and to bring non-perishable food items that are easy to store and prepare. You should also bring a water filter or other means of purifying water and water containers.
Camping gear: You’ll need a tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other camping gear to be comfortable while camping in remote areas. You should also bring a camping stove and cookware for preparing meals.
Navigation and communication equipment: A GPS, maps, and a compass are essential for navigating remote areas. You should also bring a satellite phone or other means of communication in case of an emergency.
Recovery equipment: You need to be prepared for mechanical issues or other problems while traveling in remote areas. You should bring a set of tools, a spare tire, and other recovery equipment.
First aid kit: A first aid kit is essential for any Overlanding trip. It should include basic medical supplies, such as bandages, pain relievers, and other medications.
Clothing and personal items: Be sure to bring clothing and items appropriate for the weather and the activities you’ll be doing. Be prepared for different weather conditions, and bring extra layers, rain gear, and other clothing to keep you warm and dry.
Other items: You may also want to bring additional items such as a portable solar panel, a camera, or binoculars.
Carrying the necessary supplies is vital to make your Overlanding trip a success. It’s essential to be prepared for any situation and to have everything you need to be self-sufficient while traveling in remote areas. It’s also necessary to plan ahead and to make sure you have the right supplies for your specific trip.
Camping in remote locations
One of the most exciting aspects of Overlanding is the opportunity to camp in remote locations. Whether in the middle of a desert, deep in the mountains, or on the banks of a remote river, overland camping in remote areas allows you to experience the great outdoors in a unique and adventurous way.
When overland camping in remote locations, it’s important to be prepared and to have the right gear. This includes a good-quality tent, sleeping bags, pads, and a camping stove. You should also bring a camping hammock as an alternative sleeping option. It’s also important to have a way to purify water and to bring enough food and water to last for the duration of your trip.
Chase State Fishing Lake – Cottonwood Falls, Kansas 2021
It’s also important to consider the weather conditions and to bring the proper clothing and gear. This includes warm layers, rain gear, and sun protection. It’s also critical to have a plan for dealing with extreme temperatures, such as heat or cold.
When camping in remote locations, it’s vital to follow Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out your trash, minimizing your environmental impact, and respecting wildlife.
It’s also important to be aware of potential hazards, such as wild animals, poisonous plants, or extreme weather conditions. It’s also important to know how to use your GPS, compass, and maps and to have a satellite phone or other means of communication in case of an emergency.
Overland camping in remote locations is an exciting and adventurous way to experience the great outdoors. It allows you to explore remote wilderness areas and discover new places. It’s also a way to challenge yourself and have an adventure you’ll remember forever. However, it’s important to be prepared, to have the right gear, and to follow Leave No Trace principles when camping in remote locations.
Exploring wilderness areas and off-road trails
Exploring wilderness areas and off-road trails is one of the most exciting aspects of Overlanding. Whether traveling through a national park, a remote desert, or a mountain range, Overlanding allows you to experience the great outdoors in a unique and adventurous way.
When exploring wilderness areas and off-road trails, it’s important to be prepared and to have the right gear. This includes a good quality 4-wheel drive vehicle, a GPS, maps, and a compass. It’s also important to have a good set of off-road tires and to be familiar with the capabilities and limitations of your vehicle.
Knowing potential hazards, such as rough terrain, rocks, and other obstacles. It’s also important to understand how to use your GPS, compass, and maps and to have a satellite phone or other means of communication in case of an emergency.
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge – Canton, KS 2017
One of the most important things to remember when exploring wilderness areas and off-road trails is respecting the environment. This means following Leave No Trace principles, minimizing your impact on the environment, and respecting wildlife. It’s also important to be aware of any regulations or restrictions in place for the area you are visiting.
Exploring wilderness areas and off-road trails is an exciting and adventurous way to experience the great outdoors. It allows you to see new places and discover new things. It’s also a way to challenge yourself and have an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime. It’s important to be prepared, to have the right gear, and to respect the environment when exploring wilderness areas and off-road trails.
Benefits of Overlanding
Overlanding offers a unique and adventurous way to explore the great outdoors, and it comes with a variety of benefits. Here are some of the main benefits of Overlanding:
Connection with nature: Overlanding allows you to immerse yourself in the natural world and experience it in a way that is not possible when traveling by car or plane. It allows you to appreciate the beauty of the world and to learn more about the environment.
Self-reliance and self-sufficiency: Overlanding is a self-reliant form of travel. You are responsible for your own supplies, and you need to be prepared for the unexpected. This can be a great way to build confidence and self-reliance.
Adventure and Exploration: Overlanding offers the opportunity to explore remote wilderness areas and discover new places. It’s a way to challenge yourself and to have an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Creating memories and bonding with friends and family: Overlanding can be a great way to create memories and bonds with friends and family. It allows you to spend quality time together and have fun in a unique and adventurous way.
Cost-effective: Overlanding can be a cost-effective way to travel, as it allows you to camp instead of staying in a hotel. It also allows you to travel to remote areas where the cost of living is lower.
Get away from the crowd: Overlanding allows you to travel to remote areas where you’re less likely to encounter large crowds. This can be especially beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic or other times when people are looking for ways to travel safely.
Overlanding allows you to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a way to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the world, and have an adventure that you’ll never forget.
Preparing for an Overlanding Trip
Preparing for an overland trip takes time and effort, but it’s essential to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip. Here are some key steps to take when preparing for an overland trip:
Plan your route: Before you leave, it’s important to plan your route and research the areas you’ll be visiting. This includes looking at maps, researching potential campsites, and checking for any potential hazards or restrictions.
Choose the right vehicle: Choosing the right vehicle is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when preparing for an overland trip. It’s important to choose a vehicle that is suitable for the type of terrain you’ll be traveling on, and that is reliable and capable of carrying all of your gear.
Build or outfit your vehicle: Once you’ve chosen a vehicle, it’s important to outfit it properly for Overlanding. This may include adding a roof rack, installing a winch, and adding off-road tires. It’s also important to have a good set of tools and spare parts on hand in case of mechanical issues.
Gather necessary supplies and equipment: Make a list of all the supplies and equipment you’ll need for the trip, and make sure you have everything you need. This includes food, water, camping gear, and recovery equipment.
Get in shape: Overlanding can be physically demanding, so it’s important to get in shape before you leave. This means taking regular walks, hikes, or bike rides to build up your stamina.
Learn basic vehicle maintenance: Knowing how to perform basic vehicle maintenance is essential for an overland trip. This includes changing a tire, checking oil levels, and knowing how to jump-start a battery.
Get necessary permits and insurance: It’s important to check if you need any permits or insurance for the areas you will visit. This may include wilderness permits, camping permits, or international insurance.
Preparing for an overland trip takes time and effort, but it’s essential to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip. By planning your route, choosing the right vehicle, building or outfitting your vehicle, gathering necessary supplies, getting in shape, learning basic vehicle maintenance, and getting required permits and insurance, you can ensure that your overland trip will be a success.
Popular Overlanding Destinations
Overlanding allows exploring some of the most beautiful and remote places on earth. Here are some of the most popular overland destinations around the world:
North America: North America offers a wide range of overland destinations, from the rugged mountains of the West to the deserts of the Southwest. Popular overland destinations in North America include Yosemite National Park, Moab, and the Alaska Highway.
East Pocket – Sedona, AZ 2022
Africa: Africa is a popular overland destination known for its diverse landscapes and wildlife. The Serengeti National Park, the Okavango Delta, and the Namib Desert are popular overland African destinations.
South America: South America offers a wide range of overland destinations, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. Popular overland destinations in South America include Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, and the Inca Trail in Peru.
Australia: Australia is home to some of the most beautiful and remote wilderness areas in the world. Popular overland destinations in Australia include the Outback, the Kimberley, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Asia: Asia offers many overland destinations, from the Himalayas to the Gobi Desert. Popular overland destinations in Asia include the Silk Road, the Himalayas, and the Silk Road.
These are just a few examples of popular overland destinations around the world. The possibilities are endless, and with Overlanding, you can discover new places and have an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime. It’s important to plan ahead and to research the destinations you’re interested in to make the most of your overland trip.
Go Try Overlanding for Yourself
In conclusion, Overlanding is a unique and adventurous way to explore the great outdoors. It offers a variety of benefits, including the opportunity to connect with nature, to be self-reliant and self-sufficient, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature, Overlanding is the perfect activity for you. It’s also a cost-effective way to travel and a great option if you’re looking for a way to travel safely and have more control over your itinerary and surroundings.
Overlanding can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, and with the rise of social media and online communities, it’s becoming more accessible than ever. In addition, there are many affordable options for building or outfitting a vehicle for Overlanding and many online resources for planning and preparing for an overland trip.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and adventurous way to explore the great outdoors, we encourage you to try Overlanding and experience its many benefits for yourself. Happy Overlanding!
Check out our podcast episodes with many overlanders like Richard & Ashely from Desk to Glory, Dan Grec from The Road Chose Me, and Karissa & Linhbergh from Gon Dirtin.