The Best Overlanding Gear For Your Next Adventure

Overlanding has the advantage of being something that anyone is able to do and is the perfect activity for people looking to combine their love for camping, going on an off-road trip, and their love for vehicles. Going overlanding and on an off-road trip is about enjoying the journey and seeing the landscape, as well as the destination and camping. Very often overlanding starts with a trip here and there, but as your passion for this activity grows, so does its ability to change your life by discovering new places and seeking new horizons.

Before going on an off-road adventure, it is key to take a decent amount of time to plan and prepare the adequate gear even if you are going on a short off-road trip or a bigger adventure such as a cross country road trip in order to avoid any inconveniences and ending your trip halfway or at the very beginning. The internet offers plenty of sources that you can refer to learn about camping, planning a trip, navigation, vehicle repair, overlanding gear, and communications which are all equally important.

Before you are finished reading this article, you will have an idea of the best overlanding gear that you need.

Product Name	Dimensions	Why Bring it
TJM Torq Winch With Synthetic Rope – 9500LB or 12000LB – TJM	8 x 24 x 14 inches Synthetic rope length: 90 feet	For vehicle recovery purposes
ARB RK9A Premium Recovery Kit for Any Offroad Adventure	19 x 12 x 11.1inches	For vehicle recovery purposes
Maxtrax MKII Safety Orange Vehicle Recovery Board	46 x 13 x 3.5 inches	For vehicle recovery purposes
ARB 10000011 Speedy Seal 2 – Universal Heavy Duty Tire Repair Kit	13 x 8 x 2.5 inches	For all sorts of vehicle repairs
NOCO Boost HD GB70 2000 Amp 12-Volt UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter Box	6 x 2.5 x 8.6inches	For safely jump starting a dead car battery in seconds
ALP Propane-Powered Generator 1000W	18 x 10 x 14 inches	For another power source alternative or backup
RIGID Industries SR-Series Pro 30″ Spot/Flood Combo	‎32.85 x 6 x 6 inches	For lighting purposes
Dometic PLB40 Portable Lithium Battery	7.76 x 7.76 x 10.02 inches	For recharging electrical items
DMOS Delta Pro Shovel	Blade Dimensions: 11″ x 13″ x 2.75″ inches Collapsed Dimensions: 24″ x 11″ x 2.75″ inches Extended Dimensions: 51 x 11 x 2.75 inches	For digging purposes
YAKIMA, RoadShower 7G	55 x 7.4 x 5.74 inches	For the convenience of pressurized water in the middle of nowhere
Amazon Basics 173-Piece Mechanic’s Hand Tool Kit Set	16.7 x 13.4 x 3.5 inches	For a variety of repairs
LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern	9.84 x 4.92 x 6.89inches	For lighting purposes
Guana Equipment Wanaka 55″ Roof Top Tent Setup With XL Annex	Tent Open: 56.3  x 122 x 49.5 inches Tent Closed: 56.3 x 48 x 12 inches Annex Room: 100 x 100 x 82.5  inches	For sleeping and shelter
Roof Rack	/	For storing overlanding gear, equipment and accessories
ARB OMEFJCHKS Old Man Emu Complete Suspension Kit	22 x 15 x 12 inches	For accommodating the additional weight of an aftermarket front bumper and winch

Risks When Going Off-Road

As is the case with any activity, Going off-road carries a few risks. However, as previously mentioned, with the right overlanding gear there is nothing to worry about. Preparation is key; therefore, informing yourself about the terrain, weather conditions, and bringing the most suitable gear and tools beforehand will have a positive impact on your journey. Let’s take a look at the most common risks with going off-road.

·       Difficult Terrain:Getting Stuck in Mud or Sand

Off-road driving requires a bit of skill. You must be able to respond precisely to challenging, constantly changing conditions, and you need the tools and knowledge to recover a stuck, rolled, or otherwise immobilized vehicle. Vehicle recovery is a common problem, and besides the damage, it can do to your paint, it can be life-threatening. However, armed with the appropriate recovery gear and knowledge, it should not be a monumental problem. It is necessary to always bring a winch and a vehicle recovery kit that includes vehicle recovery boards regardless of where, when, and how long you are going overlanding.

·       Weather: Why Prepare Yourself With the Right Tent/Bedding

Going on a cross-country road trip for a couple of days means that you will need to sleep and it may be a challenge in the great outdoors; however, it is very important to get some shut-eye in order to regain energy. Falling asleep in your car can prove to be a bit overwhelming for multiple reasons, especially if you are not alone on your trip and the weather is bad. Packing a spacious, water and wind-resistant tent and a quality sleeping bag is key to keeping warm, dry.

·       Power: Why Do You Need to Have an Alternate Source of Power to Charge Electronics

Electricity has become an indispensable resource for our daily survival. No matter how much we want to go on an off-road adventure and seek new horizons in the wild, we won’t go unless we are certain that we can provide electricity for ourselves for the entire trip. Having an alternative or backup power source such as a propane-powered generator can sometimes mean a difference between life and death during overlanding. Imagine being stranded in the middle of nowhere without an alternate source of power and not being able to use electronics such as an LED camping lantern to try to signal for help, scary, isn’t it?

·         Vehicle Failure: The Importance of Basic Tools, Tire Repair Kits and Vehicle Maintenance

We can safely assume that your vehicle will break down eventually, and the more time you spend on your journey, the more likely it is that your vehicle will break down in an inconvenient place. However, getting stranded doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to panic. Bringing basic mechanic tools, learning how to do maintenance and how your vehicle works beforehand can come a long way. Maintenance can keep your vehicle in good working order when you need it the most. Furthermore, you will be able to repair your car with basic mechanic tools and change your tire with your tire repair kit.

·         Animals: Beware and Keep Your Distance

It is almost certain that you will encounter some animals during your time in remote places. You should take precautions because animals can pose a threat to your safety. The calm look of a bison might tempt you to get close to take the perfect photo, but bear in mind that their calm appearance does not reflect their personality and keep your distance. Moreover, avoid driving at night. Plenty of animals regularly crosses the road at night. Needless to say, hitting an animal such as a deer can have fatal consequences; therefore, it is a better solution to camp out during the night and continue your journey first thing in the morning.

What Gear To Bring When Going Off Road

Before setting off on your adventure, there are some things that you should consider bringing in order to guarantee a long and unforgettable trip. These items might get you out of a tight spot, make your trip more enjoyable and even save your life. Let’s dive into those off-roading essentials.

TJM Torq Winch With Synthetic Rope – 9500LB or 12000LB

Dimensions:

8 x 24 x 14 inches
Synthetic rope length:  90 feet

Description:

With TJM’s  9500LB or 12000LB electric winches you will have an easy time getting your vehicle unstuck and conquering any difficult terrain. These electric winches feature a high-quality synthetic rope and a wireless remote making them the ideal winches for easily recovering your vehicle risk-free from the safety of distance.

These high-quality winches are tested to meet Australian standards, therefore they are resilient and provide their owner with the ability to traverse any terrain without the worry of getting permanently stuck. The freedom to explore more places comes with owning a TJM electric winch.

Features:

• 10 position clocking on the gearbox
• 4 position clocking on the motor
• 90 degrees clutch handle
• Anti-corrosive aluminum tie bars
• Automatic load holding brake
• CE Certified
• Free spooling
• FRP sheath protecting all cables
• High output series wound motor
• Integrated solenoid control pack
• AP67 Waterproof rated winch remote
• IP67 winch body
• Low electric current draw
• Manual isolation switch included
• Planetary gear system
• Power in and power out
• Sealed motor and gearbox to prevent water and dust coming in
• Wireless remote included
• Free Shipping

Should you choose to buy either the 9500LB or 12000LB model, you can rest assured that you have made the right choice. Purchase by clicking HERE.

ARB RK9A Premium Recovery Kit for Any Offroad Adventure

Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 11.1 inches

Description:

This premium recovery kit manufactured by ARB features everything that an off-road driver would need to recover his vehicle, regardless of whether it’s a winch recovery or a simple snatch. Compared to purchasing every product individually and spending more money, ARB’s premium recovery kit represents exceptional value by saving you money.

As well as a winch line dampener, a tree trunk protector is included in order to ensure minimal damage to your environment. All of this is contained in a carry bag that houses the kinetic snatch strap, an extension strap, the snatch block, and two shackles.

Features:

• 17,600lbs snatch strap
• 9,900lbs winch extension strap
• 26,000lbs tree trunk protector
• 19,800lbs snatch block
• Recovery damper
• Recently Upgraded Winch pack storage bag
• Two 4.75T bow shackles
• Recovery gloves

Recovery gear is a necessity for every off-roader. This kit is ideal as a starter kit or as a convenient means of storing everything you need. Purchase by clicking HERE.

Maxtrax MKII Safety Orange Vehicle Recovery Board

Dimensions:

46 x 13 x 3.5 inches

Description:

Engineering-grade nylon construction prevents these Maxtrax vehicle recovery boards from breaking or cracking regardless of the car weight and duration of usage. These recovery boards include six glove-friendly handles with a built-in shovel on each end. Moreover, during vehicle recovery, proprietary material resists wheel spin, cleats sink into both the terrain and tires to prevent your vehicle from slipping back into snow, mud, or sand.

Sometimes vehicle recovery boards can prove to be a decisive factor during vehicle recovery. Getting your vehicle stuck in either mud or sand can prove a real challenge and the failure to get traction with your tires will further complicate your vehicle recovery. Mounting these recovery boards on your rig’s roof rack is simple. They do not require much space but offer many advantages.

Features:

• Engineering-grade nylon construction
• UV stable material
• Six built-in handles and a shovel on each end
• 46  x 13 x 3.5, 8LB per board, 16LB per pair
• Proprietary material
• Six built-in handles and a shovel on each
• Made in Australia using Australian materials

Using these vehicle recovery boards is definitely a safer and simpler option compared to using a winch. For the reasons mentioned above, these recovery boards are praised in the off-roading community. Purchase by clicking HERE.

ARB 10000011 Speedy Seal 2 – Universal Heavy Duty Tire Repair Kit

Dimensions:

13 x 8 x 2.5 inches

Description:

Due to the difficulty of the terrain that is part of off-roading,  getting a flat tire is annoying but is almost certain to happen at one point of your journey. However, ARB’s Speedy Seal Series II can make this frustrating situation manageable as it includes everything needed to repair up to 40 tubeless radial or cross-ply tires without having to remove them from vehicles or rims. This makes the ARB Speedy Seal Series II a true emergency tire repair kit all in one.

Besides being a vital part of your car, tires are also commonly damaged. Therefore, every vehicle should always have a full tire repair kit in the trunk just in case. This tire repairing kit combined with some practice makes the process of repairing a flat tire so easy that anyone can do it.  Therefore, it may be observed as a necessary kit for off-roading.

Features:

•High Vis strong plastic molded case

•Spring steel insertion needle with classic ARB logo

•Hardened reamer tool

 •30 Self vulcanizing repair cords

•Pointy nose pliers with cutters

•Allen key

•Tire gauge – dual chuck

•Lubricant

•Valve Cores x 4

•Tire valve tool x 1

•Valve Caps x 4 (Metal & Rubber)

ARB’s Speedy Seal Series II is one of the best possible tire repair kits on the market. Novice and expert drivers alike value what this tire repair kit has to offer. Purchase by clicking HERE.

NOCO Boost HD GB70 2000 Amp 12-Volt UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter Box

Dimensions:

6 x 2.5 x 8.6 inches

Description:

The renowned GB70 is an ultra-portable, lightweight, and compact portable lithium car battery jump starter pack for 12-volt batteries. With it, you can safely jump-start a dead battery in seconds – up to 40 times on a single charge. It’s a mistake-proof portable car battery jump starter battery booster pack, making it safe for anyone to use, and features spark-proof technology, as well as reverse polarity protection.

Having a jump starter is an excellent item to consider bringing before embarking on an off-road journey. Not relying on another vehicle to jump-start your own is one of the commodities that bringing a jump starter box includes. As a bonus, you can use it to recharge your cigarette lighter and it can provide portable power for your phone and other gadgets, too. Just make sure you keep it charged.

Features:

• GB70 Portable Car Battery Jump Starter Pack
• Heavy-Duty Battery Clamps
• XGC Male and Female Connectors
• XGC Cable
• Micro USB Charging Cable
• Microfiber Storage Bag
• User Guide for Jump Starter
• 1-Year Limited Warranty

Electricity is what we strive to get away from when going camping. However, it is convenient to have the choice to use it just in case. Everyone should carry one of these. Purchase by clicking HERE.

 The Dometic PLB40 Portable Lithium Battery is a somewhat smaller alternative.

ALP Propane-Powered Generator 1000W

Dimensions:

18 x 10 x 14 inches

Description:

Do you have extra room in your car and want to have a power source alternative or backup?  If so, then look no further than what the ALP Propane-Powered Generator with 1000Watts capacity has to offer. This external power source is excellent for supplying your electronic devices with electricity.

It spans an operation time of 60 hours using a 20lb tank, should you decide to use a 1-pound propane tank, it can run up to 3 hours. Moreover, it features multiple power outlets, and an emergency LED light, all packed in a 30lb lightweight body designed with your convenience in mind. The ALP Generator won’t rumble and tumble like traditional gas generators. Just turn it on, sit back, and enjoy the sound of mother nature.

Features:

• EPA and CARB approved
• 30 lbs portable and lightweight design
• Multiple charging options
• Ultra-bright emergency light
• Pure sine-wave technology
• 1-year Limited Warranty
• Incredibly quiet

No stone was left unturned making this propane-powered generator, it perfectly combines the peace and quiet that remote destinations have to offer and the perks of having a power generator. Purchase by clicking HERE.

RIGID Industries SR-Series Pro 30″ Spot/Flood Combo

Dimensions:

32.85 x 6 x 6 inches

Description:

The novel SR-Series PRO LED Light Bars provide a sleek, low-profile lighting solution that has a powerful light source designed to project light at extreme distances while consuming very little power. Additionally, it features a lifespan of 50.000+ hours. Being able to see clearly while driving is considered a necessity that the SR-Series PRO LED Light Barsare is able to secure.

Built with high-grade aluminum alloy and a durable UV-resistant powder coat it gives technological and environmental advantages, but also for their economical attractiveness. It protects from scratches, chipping, abrasions, corrosion, fading, and general wear.

Features:

• 50,000 Plus Hour Lifespan
• 9-36 V DC
• Durable UV Resistant Powder Coat
• High-Grade Aluminum Alloy
• Integrated Thermal Management System
• Impact Resistant Polycarbonate Lens
• Over/Under Voltage Protection
• RFI/EMI Protection
• Reverse Polarity Protection
• RoHS Compliant
• IP68 Compliant – Dust/Water Ingress
• Operating Temp -40 Deg F To +145 Deg F
• SAE J575 Compliant – Shock/Vibration
• Available In White And Black Housing
• Pressure Equalizing Vent
• Waterproof Connector (Exclusions Apply)
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

Taking all these features into account, it is the perfect light source to bring on an off-road journey. Purchase by clicking HERE.

DMOS Delta Pro Shovel

Blade Dimensions:

11″ x 13″ x 2.75″ inches

Collapsed Dimensions:

24″ x 11″ x 2.75″ inches

Extended Dimensions:

51 x 11 x 2.75 inches

Description:

It goes without saying that off-roading essential should always include a shovel because it is just the perfect versatile tool. Most shovels on the market are too long and complicated to store or just too small to get the job done. The DMOS Delta Pro Shovel includes all their strengths, and none of their weakness – it’s a full-sized shovel you can take with you anywhere.

With the foldable 3-position head, the Delta can be used as a shovel, a hoe, or fold it up for compact stowing. The collapsible shaft also lets you use the Delta at 3 different lengths. Combined together, you get a powerfully versatile tool that’s perfect for every situation.

Features:

• Usage: Mud & Hard Pack
• Blade Style: Spade
• Feature: Ultimate Versatility
• Blade Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
• Blade Dimensions: 11″ x 13″ x 2.75″
• Blade Thickness: 0.100″
• Collapsed Dimensions: 24″ x 11″ x 2.75″
• Extended Dimensions: 51″
• Weight: 3 lb 8 oz
• Temperature Range: -40 ° – 150 ° F
• Force: 10 to 1 Fulcrum – Can Lift 1,000 Pounds

DMOS’s Stealth Pro is the ultimate shovel for auto/overlanding, adventure, action sports, ski lift operations, or military work. Its versatility makes it the perfect tool to take just about anywhere. Purchase by clicking HERE.

YAKIMA RoadShower 7G

Dimensions:

55 x 7.4 x 5.74  inches

Description:

The Yakima RoadShower is your trusty sidekick for the convenience of pressurized water in the middle of nowhere. Its dependable attachment to your vehicle or trailer allows you to roam freely. And, while you’re out having fun, the sun heats up the water in the tank. Check the thermometer and you can enjoy a hot sun-powered shower, or blast off mac-n-cheese from campsite dishes.

If you are looking for even more convenience when Overlanding or just want to fill in that unoccupied storage space on your roof rack or in your car be sure to bring the Yakima RoadShower as I am sure that you will be amazed and not think of heading off-roading again without one.

Features:

• The Patented Design is built strong with welded aluminum construction and durable powder coat finish.
• Large top-cap allows for easy filling.
• Pressurize the tank through the Schrader air valve or a garden hose.
• Pressurize with hand or electric pump – Built-in pressure relief valve safely and automatically tops out at 55 psi (max).

Although it is not a necessity to have pressurized water in the middle of nowhere, it can surely prove useful. Purchase by clicking HERE.

Amazon Basics 173-Piece Mechanic’s Hand Tool Kit Set         

Dimensions:

16.7 x 13.4 x 3.5 inches

Description:

Before heading out, you should bring a comprehensive selection of wrenches, drivers, pliers, and other tools with you. Even if you don’t intend to work on your car during a trip, the vibrations and bumps can rattle stuff loose easily. Having a toolkit along will empower you to deal with problems as they arise.

Amazon’s 173-piece tool kit is an adequate choice. It includes all the tools that you might need. Getting to know each tool and its use is a sure way to ensure that even the biggest car trouble will cause you no stress.

Features:

• 173-piece hand tool set for basic household repairs and everyday projects; includes 8 combination wrenches, 3/8-inch ratchet wrench, 22 hex keys, 6-inch slip-joint pliers, 6-inch long nose pliers, and more.
• Made of durable heat-treated and chrome-plated alloy steel for long-lasting, corrosion-resistant strength
• Plastic non-slip handles provide enhanced comfort and control
• Blow-molded case provides secure tool storage and convenient portability

This 173-piece tool kit may sound overwhelming, but it is just a comprehensive selection of common tools that you need to get acquainted with. Purchase by clicking HERE.

LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern

Dimensions:

9.84 x 4.92 x 6.89 inches

Description:

Flashlights are one of those things that come to mind first when thinking about what to bring when off-road camping. Flashlights are a great portable light source when night falls. Most flashlights are only limited to being used for that purpose. However, it is good to take advantage of modern flashlights since they are versatile and are not that much more expensive than simple flashlights.

When talking about modern flashlights, the LE Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern should always come to mind. This easy-to-carry water-resistant flashlight features 5 light modes, gives out brightness up to 1000 lumen with a long illumination distance of 1640 feet, and is bright enough for outdoor searching and emergencies.

Features:

• High Brightness. Made of superb Cree XML LED
• USB Rechargeable and Power Bank
• Built-in 3600mAh rechargeable batteries
• A length-adjustable shoulder strap is provided together with a large comfortable handle
• 5 Lighting Modes. Front torch: full brightness (1000lm, 2H) and low brightness (400lm, 5H). Left side light: full brightness (130lm, 6H) and half brightness (70lm, 12H). Right side light: red flashing light. Satisfy different needs.
• Water Resistant. Good for outdoor activities in light rain or snowy day with IPX4 water resistant rating.

This modern LED lantern can be considered as an off-roading essential because of its versatility. It can serve for illuminating dark places and to signal people should you get stuck in the middle of nowhere. Purchase by clicking HERE.

Overlanding Gear for Longer Trips

Should you choose to go on overlanding adventures for multiple days at a time, it is necessary to use a tent, quality roof rack, and a lift kit to ensure the best possible experience apart from the off-roading gear that is written about above.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Overlanding is an activity that requires a lot of essential gear. Like with any other activity, the beginning is never easy, and repeatedly doing it always requires preparation and picking the right gear. Nevertheless, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages as overlanding is a life-altering activity that everybody should try at least once.

This list was designed for consulting and is meant for off-road enthusiasts regardless of their level of experience. Knowing what gear to bring is simplified by this informative list. Remember to adequately prepare by bringing the right equipment and doing your research before embarking on your adventure.