What Is Overlanding?

Whether you've seen those carefully crafted Instagram photos or vloggers documenting their experiences on YouTube, you've likely come across overlanding camping and didn't even know it. But there's no fault in asking, "What is overlanding?" as this concept of camping is a bit different than general camping.

Ever heard a variation of the phrase, "It's more about the journey than the destination?" Well, that helps to sum up a considerable component of overlanding camping. According to travel website Roadtrippers , overlanding is a blend of camping and off-roading.

Overlanding involves traveling to areas not developed by humans (think sites riddled with boulders, deep remote forests, or deserts). Your vehicle, whether an SUV or other mechanized mode of transportation, is your key to getting around in these areas.

Overlanding is typically long-distance and off-grid, and it is also intense. It isn't your run-of-the-mill national park camping with the option to visit a restaurant or take advantage of nearby bathrooms. Overlanding requires understanding how to make it far from civilization without modern creature comforts. So, a typical overlanding trip will require survivalist instincts and the right kind of equipment.

If overlanding is the next challenge on your list, check out our recommendations for the essential overlanding gear you'll need for your trip.

1. Alternate Energy Source

You won't have access to an electrical outlet when you're wading through swamp water or going deeper into a tropical forest. So, you'll have to carry your own alternative energy source with you to power your lighting and keep that phone charged. Because of their portability and the reliability of their power source, solar panels are a great way to keep your batteries charged.

Check out products like the Redarc 120W Monocrystalline Portable Folding Solar Panel, which produces a max 20V power voltage, and its portability and size make it easy to bring along in an off-roading vehicle. Also, the Midland Radio Emergency Crank Weather Radio 2600 mAh can charge your phone while acting as a lighting source and allow you to stay up-to-date on weather patterns by winding a handheld crank.

Power systems are likely the foundation of supplies you'll need while overlanding. From lighting to navigational gear, you'll need these items to help you stay connected to the outside world. Therefore, ensure you're putting this item at the top of your list.

2. First Aid Supplies

Unfortunately, accidents happen. Overlanding camping can lead to you going to remote areas where you might not be able to get quick medical attention if you get hurt. In these conditions, a scratch or sprain can prove serious. For that reason, it's crucial to always have a first aid kit on you. The Smittybilt First Aid Storage Bag comes with a variety of individual storage pockets to make it easy for you to store your first aid supplies. It can also attach to rollbars for adequate placement on your vehicle.

The Go Rhino Xventure First Aid Roll is also excellent for securely storing and transporting first aid supplies. These bags do not come with first aid supplies, so be sure to stock up on bandages, antiseptic wipes, over-the-counter pain medication, scissors, antibiotic ointment, and other items that can help you if you have an accident.

3. Navigation Gear

There's excitement in going off the beaten path. There's beauty in seeing areas known for their nature instead of human development. However, while your goal might be to enjoy being remote, you'll still want to know how to move through the area you've traveled to.

The right navigation gear can help you stay in control of your journey. The Magellan TR7 Cam Trail & Street GPS Navigator with Camera Light is an exceptional option for helping you navigate your trip. It offers turn-by-turn trail and street navigation, over 160,000 pre-loaded motorized vehicle trails, and GPS accuracy up to three to five meters.

4. Recovery Equipment

Those muddy trails and snowy peaks can prove treacherous, especially as you move further from major cities and towns. Even the best off-roading vehicles can experience hiccups through your drive. Therefore, you'll want to add recovery gear to your supplies. Invest in a tow strap like the Smittybilt Recoil Kinetic Rope or Bubba Rope Bubba Recovery Rope 7/8" x 30' (Blue/Black) with breaking strengths of 30,000 pounds and 28,600 pounds, respectively.

The DV8 Offroad Traction Boards with Carry Bag can help you gain traction for your vehicle if caught in the looser ground like mud or snow. They can also function as a shovel if needed. Trail jacks like the Hi-Lift 48" X-Treme Jack - XT-485 and Smittybilt 54" Trail Jack can help you change that tire even in rough conditions.

5. Spares

Driving on unpaved roads can lead to flattened tires. So, it's critical to have spare tires and related supplies on you. First, you'll want to have a heavy-duty off-roading or all-terrain tire. Both the BF Goodrich Mud Terrain KM2 Tires and Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T Tires are great options to help you overcome rugged terrain. But remember, it's always a good idea to try to get the same tires you already have to better support your car.

Next, invest in a solid spare tire carrier. The Smittybilt Pivot Heavy-Duty Oversize Tire Carrier can reliably hold larger tires and even includes a brake light. Also, always invest in a tire cleaner and polish. These can help protect your tires from natural damage like overexposure to UV rays. Check out the Lucas Oil Slick Mist Tire and Trim Shine for a great option.

Overlanding can be an excellent experience. But you want to ensure you have the right supplies to make it safe and enjoyable. We have everything you may need, from spare tires to tow straps, for a smooth journey.

Use the items and categories as a guide of things you might need, and even further your research to discover other items that can improve the experience. Check out the 4 Wheel Parts inventory for additional essential overlanding gear.