Overlanding Essentials

Overlanding can be as stripped-down or as dialed-in as you want it to be. Some travelers are happiest with a capable and reliable truck, a paper map and a bedroll; others love the puzzle of building out a rig, comparing recovery gear and finding the perfect camp setup. Everyone has their own philosophy here, but all approaches lead to the same place: farther from pavement, deeper into wild country and closer to the landscapes that make the journey worthwhile.

There is no universal packing list because there is no universal trip. A weekend on forest roads demands something very different from a months-long crossing of continents. The point is not to carry everything; it’s to understand where you’re going, what your vehicle can handle and what you need to stay safe if plans unravel. Recovery equipment, navigation, water, basic tools and emergency supplies matter. Beyond that, go your own way. Travel lightly, tread carefully and leave the country as you found it.

No matter how you roll with your gear style, from spartan to maximalist, there are a few crucial things to consider when it comes to packing strategy and trip preparedness. Going the extra mile (no pun!) means you’ll be comfortable, provisioned, ready for what the adventure throws your way. Most importantly: It means you can focus on having a good time.

WATER STORAGE

Of the vital supplies required for any drive, water is the most essential. Especially in the summer months or in hot climates, it may be necessary to carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person for each day (consider what you’ll need for cooking, too). Go with something durable that provides enough water to travel for at least three days with water to spare in case of an emergency.

SUN PROTECTION

Even a small slice of shade can offer enough respite to wait out the peak heat of the day. Vehicle-mounted awnings are quick to deploy and strong in a mild breeze. The best way to endure desert exposure is to cover as much bare skin as possible with light, breathable fabrics. Modern sun shirts offer high SPF protection as well.

FOOD + DRINK STORAGE

There are two common methods to backcountry refrigeration. The classic cooler has received significant technological improvements in the last decade; some models like the Yeti Tundra 45 can retain ice for over a week. The most convenient and fuss-free cooling solution is a portable 12-volt refrigerator, with great options that fit in most vehicles, sip power efficiently and hold several days of supplies. Some can even keep items frozen solid, which puts ice cream firmly in your packing decision matrix.

COMMUNICATION

If things go pear-shaped and outside assistance is needed, relying on cellular coverage won’t cut it. Satellite communications are the only assured means of sending and receiving messages. Fortunately, there are a multitude of options for devices and services to bounce signals off satellites overhead, offering options for satellite messaging, emergency notifications and a dedicated SOS feature.