4 Things You Should Know About Overlanding

Going on a road trip is perhaps one of the ways to unwind from the busy life in the city while getting to see and explore various places. And among the best off-road adventures to try today is outlanding. And while this may be a new concept to some people, overlanding can give you a thrilling experience to explore the outdoors. 

What Is Overlanding?

Overlanding is another form of adventure travel that involves going on a trip to remote destinations. Overlanding combines off-road exploration and camping, making it one of the best get-away-from-it-all activities you can do, especially if you’re looking to spruce up your road trip experience. 

Everyone can indulge in overlanding, so long as you plan to prepare for the long journey in advance. It’s also vital that you understand the basics of overlanding before you head out.

And so, this article will outline and talk about what you need to know about overlanding to help you get started.

1.You Must Have The Right Vehicle

Since overlanding involves going and exploring different locations for a long period, it’s crucial that you have the right vehicle for it. However, this doesn’t mean that you’d have to purchase a new car or SUV for this adventure. What you have sitting in your garage right now could also work. 

Even if what you currently have is just a regular crossover, SUV, or pickup truck, your overlanding adventure can still be off to a good start. However, in some cases, and depending on your preference, you can invest in additional mods or rigs for your chosen vehicle. For instance, you can add features that could improve your overall overlanding experience, such as a drivetrain that you usually see in an Overland Defender.

2. Prepare The Vehicle

Needless to say, the vehicle you’re going to use for your overlanding journey must be prepared for the long road trip ahead. To start, it must undergo a comprehensive vehicle service and inspection from a professional mechanic to ensure that its brakes, engine, transmission, and other important components are all in good condition before you head out.

In addition, ensure that the tires are still good. And if possible, replace them with a new set, so they are free from wear and tear. Don’t forget to spring spare tires too. Don’t forget to check the electrical components of the vehicle as well, such as wipers, headlights, door locks, AC, etc. 

It’s also recommended that you familiarize yourself with the mechanical makeup of your vehicle. That way, you can perform basic maintenance and repairs in case of an emergency breakdown. And with that said, remember to bring with you a mechanical tool kit. 

3. Gear Up For The Long Journey

Even if you invest in a top-of-the-line off-roader, note that it doesn’t come with everything you need to get started with your adventure. You still need to bring along a couple of essential things, as you would when you go camping or hiking. 

For example, you must still bring a sufficient supply of drinking water, food and snacks, and sleeping essentials, such as a camping tent, pillows, blankets, and sheets. You might also want to bring a camping stove so you can cook your food and anything else that you might need when you go camping. And perhaps, for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for your upcoming Overlanding journey, you can also opt for installing a rooftop tent, as shown in this video:

Most importantly, you must also be prepared for any kind of medical emergency. It’s hard to call medical assistance when you’re in the middle of the most remote locations, so make sure that you bring along a first-aid kit and a couple of basic medical supplies. 

4. Map Your Route 

Aside from sorting out the technical aspect of your overlanding journey, the next thing you should do is to map out your route. 

You should plan out your destination based on the amount of distance your budget allows you to travel to, the number of days you want to spend on the road, the weather conditions of the places you’re planning to visit and explore, and other related criteria. 

It’s also critical that you pick destinations as per your vehicle’s capabilities. You wouldn’t want to force your vehicle by going to remote places or terrains that may not be suitable for them. If you’ve got a rugged off-roader, then you are more than ready enough. You can be assured your vehicle can traverse any kind of terrain, allowing you to enjoy a smooth journey no matter where you go. 

Final Thoughts

Overlanding offers a different kind of travel experience. It’s a rigorous type of outdoor adventure that allows you to explore remote locations and create unforgettable memories with your friends and family. And with the insights outlined in this article, you can be guided on how to make your upcoming overlanding journey successful and more memorable.

 

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