Are you getting ready for an overland adventure? While exploring remote trails or tackling rugged terrain, having the right gear can significantly impact your journey. Check out this guide to the top 10 essential overland items you must pack before hitting the road, complete with recommendations for each point.
1. Navigation Tools
When heading off-road, having reliable navigation tools is crucial. Think about getting a GPS unit with offline maps, a compass, and paper maps as backups. Additionally, apps like Gaia GPS or Google Maps’ offline mode can be incredibly helpful
- Best Items:
- Garmin Overlander: Rugged, all-terrain navigator with preloaded topographic maps.
- Silva Ranger 2.0 Compass: Reliable, easy-to-use compass.
- National Geographic Adventure Paper Maps: Waterproof and tear-resistant maps for backup navigation.
2. Communication Devices
When you’re in remote areas, it’s important to stay connected for safety. Consider carrying a satellite phone or a device like SPOT or Garmin inReach. These gadgets let you send messages and call for help, even when there’s no cell phone signal.
- Best Items:
- Garmin inReach Mini 2: Compact satellite communicator with two-way messaging and SOS capabilities.
- SPOT X with Bluetooth: Satellite messenger with tracking and SOS features.
- Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone: Robust satellite phone with global coverage.
3. Recovery Gear
Get ready for surprises by having essential recovery gear. Pack a strong recovery strap, D-ring shackles, a portable air compressor for adjusting tire pressure, and traction boards to escape sticky situations like mud or sand.
- Best Items:
- ARB Recovery Kit: Includes a snatch strap, bow shackles, and recovery gloves.
- Maxtrax MKII Recovery Boards: Lightweight, durable traction boards.
- VIAIR 400P Portable Compressor: Reliable air compressor for inflating tires.
4. Camping Essentials
When you go overlanding, which often means camping in far-off places, make sure to pack a sturdy tent or rooftop tent. Bring sleeping bags suitable for the weather you’ll encounter, along with comfortable sleeping pads. And don’t leave behind a portable camping stove, cookware, and sufficient fuel for cooking your meals.
- Best Items:
- iKamper Skycamp 2.0: Spacious and quick-to-set-up rooftop tent.
- Nemo Disco 15 Sleeping Bag: Versatile sleeping bag for a variety of temperatures.
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Sleeping Pad: Lightweight and warm sleeping pad.
- Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System: Compact and efficient camping stove with cookware.
5. First Aid Kit
When you’re out and about, a complete first aid kit is essential. Pack bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. Tailor it to your destination and the specific medical requirements of your group.
- Best Items:
- Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Explorer: Comprehensive first aid kit for outdoor adventures.
- QuikClot Advanced Clotting Sponge: Essential for stopping bleeding in emergencies.
- Surviveware Large First Aid Kit: Well-organized and extensive kit with labeled compartments.
6. Vehicle Maintenance Tools
To keep your vehicle in good shape, have these basic tools on hand:
- Wrenches: These help with tightening and loosening bolts.
- Screwdrivers: Useful for various tasks, from adjusting parts to electrical work.
- Tire repair kit: Essential for fixing punctures on the go.
- Spare parts: Carry extra fuses and belts in case of emergencies. Remember to learn some basic vehicle maintenance tasks before hitting the road!
7. Water and Filtration
Clean water is essential. Bring enough for drinking and cooking, along with a water filter or purification tablets for emergencies. Aim for at least one gallon per person daily
- Best Items:
- LifeSaver Jerrycan: 18.5-liter container with a built-in filtration system.
- Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System: Compact and reliable water filtration.
- Aquamira Water Treatment Drops: Effective chemical treatment for emergency water purification.
8. Emergency Supplies
Get ready for emergencies with a complete emergency kit. Include a fire extinguisher, emergency blankets, a multi-tool, a flashlight (with extra batteries), and signaling devices like a whistle or mirror.
- Best Items:
- Kidde Automotive Fire Extinguisher: Compact and effective fire extinguisher.
- SOL Emergency Blanket: Lightweight and compact for retaining body heat.
- Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool: Versatile tool for a wide range of tasks.
- Fenix PD35 V2.0 Flashlight: High-performance flashlight with long battery life.
9. Lighting
Make sure you have good lighting for the night. Bring headlamps or flashlights with extra batteries. Also, think about adding LED lanterns or string lights to your campsite for better visibility and a cozy atmosphere.
- Best Items:
- Black Diamond Spot 350 Headlamp: A bright and reliable headlamp.
- BioLite BaseLantern XL: Portable lantern with USB charging capabilities.
- MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 Pro: Solar-powered inflatable lantern.
10. Personal Gear and Clothing
When preparing for your overland adventure, make sure to pack the following essentials:
- Clothing: Bring layers for warmth, rain gear, and sturdy footwear.
- Personal Items: Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and toiletries customized to your needs.
- Best Items:
- Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket: Durable and waterproof jacket for varying conditions.
- Merino Wool Base Layers: Warm and moisture-wicking base layers.
- Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots: Sturdy and comfortable footwear for rugged terrain.
- Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent: Effective and long-lasting protection against insects.
Conclusion
Good gear is essential for safe and comfortable overlanding. Before you go, check your gear and make sure it works. These above top 10 essentials will help you enjoy your adventure.