Gear Basics!

May 10, 2023

Hey there, fellow adventure seekers! Welcome to our latest newsletter, where we’re going to be talking about the gear basics you absolutely need for overlanding. 

Picture this: you’re out on the open road, living your best life and feeling free as a bird. You’re exploring new terrain, taking in breathtaking views, and feeling alive. But hold up, what if you’re not prepared for the unexpected?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are the essentials every overlander should have:

First up, you need a reliable vehicle. Think of it as your trusty sidekick that’ll get you through anything. Make sure it’s equipped for off-road travel, well-maintained, and ready to handle any terrain you plan on conquering.

Next, let’s talk about navigation tools. Getting lost is no fun, especially when you’re out in the middle of nowhere with no cell phone coverage. That’s why you need reliable navigation tools like a GPS unit, paper maps, and a compass. And, let’s be real, knowing how to use them wouldn’t hurt either.

Communication is key, especially in case of an emergency. So, make sure you have reliable communication tools like a two-way radio or satellite phone to call for help when you’re out of cell phone range.

Okay, now let’s talk about the fun stuff – recovery gear. Because sometimes getting stuck in the mud or sand is inevitable. This is where a winch, recovery straps, shackles, and a shovel come in handy. With the right gear, you’ll be able to get yourself unstuck in no time.

Next up is lighting. When the sun goes down, it’s important to have proper lighting to navigate dark trails. So, make sure you install high-quality LED lights on your vehicle to improve visibility and light up the night sky.

Now, let’s move on to the necessities like water and food storage. On an overland trip, you might not have access to amenities like gas stations and restaurants. So, make sure you have a reliable source of water and food storage to sustain you on your adventure.

Don’t forget about a good night’s sleep. You’ll need a reliable sleeping setup like a rooftop tent, ground tent, or camping hammock. Trust us, a good night’s sleep is essential for a successful overland trip.

Accidents can happen, even on the road less traveled. That’s why you need a comprehensive first aid kit that includes items like bandages, gauze, antiseptic, and pain relievers. Safety first, my friends!

Lastly, be prepared for any mechanical issues that may arise on your trip. Bring along a basic tool kit and spare parts like belts, hoses, and fuses. You never know when you might need them.

Here’s a list of some recommended gear for overlanding:

  1. Vehicle: A capable and reliable vehicle, equipped for off-road travel, like a Jeep Wrangler, Toyota 4Runner, or Land Rover Defender.
  2. Navigation: GPS unit, paper maps, and a compass.
  3. Communication: Two-way radio or satellite phone. The most popular two-way radio brand for off-roading is probably Baofeng, with their UV-5R and BF-F8HP models being commonly used among off-road enthusiasts. Other popular brands include Midland and Motorola.
  4. Recovery gear: Winch, recovery straps, shackles, and a shovel.
  5. Lighting: LED lights, including spotlights and floodlights.
  6. Water and food storage: Water containers, coolers, and camping stoves.
  7. Sleeping gear: Rooftop tent, ground tent, or camping hammock.
  8. First aid kit: Comprehensive kit including bandages, gauze, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
  9. Tools and spare parts: Basic tool kit, spare parts like belts, hoses, and fuses, and tire repair kit.
  10. Camping gear: Folding chairs, tables, and portable fire pit.
  11. Clothing: Comfortable and functional clothing, including rain gear, hiking boots, and warm layers.
  12. Recovery tracks: Like Maxtrax or Treds, to help you get out of sand, mud, or snow.
  13. Portable air compressor: To air up tires after airing down.
  14. Fire extinguisher: Always a good idea to have one on hand in case of emergencies.
  15. Portable water filtration system: Like a LifeStraw or Sawyer, to purify water from natural sources.

In conclusion, make sure you’re fully prepared for the adventure of a lifetime with the necessary gear to handle the challenges of overlanding. And remember, with the right gear, you’ll be ready for anything that comes your way. Happy trails, my friends!