There’s no better way to answer that inescapable call of the wild than an overlanding trip. But before you fire up your rig and head off the grid, you’ll need the right gear and a thorough vehicle check to handle the challenges ahead.
This guide covers everything you need to prepare for your next overlanding adventure, including what to bring, must-have equipment, and a vehicle inspection checklist. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, this guide can help ensure you’re ready for wherever the road takes you.
How to Prepare for an Overlanding Trip
Often described as vanlife’s rugged cousin, overlanding is all about exploration, self-reliance, and the thrill of the unknown. But as exciting as the unknown can be, some things should never be left to chance.
Proper preparation is essential for keeping your overland trip safe and enjoyable, so you can stay focused on the journey—not whether or not you brought enough dehydrated mac & cheese.
To prepare for an overland trip, you’ll need to:
We break it all down in further detail below.
What to Pack for Overlanding
Since the whole point of overlanding is being far away from convenience stores and roadside assistance, you’re responsible for packing everything you could possibly need for a safe and comfortable trip.
Here’s a basic overland packing list to get you started:
Remember, this list is just a starting point. You may need to bring additional supplies for specific activities, locations, and lifestyles.
Essential Overlanding Vehicle Gear List
Beyond basic supplies, you’ll also need to outfit your rig with storage systems and racks, not to mention rooftop tents, recovery equipment, and other essentials. Below, we highlight must-have overland gear for your vehicle that’ll make this adventure the best one yet.
Bed Slides and Drawer Units
When you’re setting up camp and your stomach is growling, you don’t want to waste time rummaging through your truck cab for a meal pack and your kettle. DECKED Storage Systems keep all your overland supplies secure, organized, and easily accessible from your truck bed, so you can spend less time on scavenger hunts and more time enjoying your adventure.
Made from high-density polyethylene and steel, these systems are durable, lockable, and 100% waterproof to protect your gear from bad weather, prying eyes, and bumpy roads. Plus, even with your drawers fully stocked, you can load up to 2,000 lbs. of additional equipment on top for maximum storage efficiency.
Front and Rear Aftermarket Bumpers
No vehicle is overland-ready straight off the lot. Modifications like front and rear aftermarket bumpers give your vehicle a rugged edge over tough trails, rocky roads, and unexpected impacts.
Rough country bumpers are built for exactly what their name suggests—protecting your vehicle from tough outdoor conditions. This front bumper is constructed entirely from durable steel, with an integrated skid plate for extra underbody protection. Plus, with a built-in winch mount and two 2-inch LED cubes, you’ll have both the recovery capabilities and off-road illumination needed to take on any adventure.
Overland Truck Bed Racks
Between fuel cans, recovery gear, and rooftop tents, your truck bed will fill up fast. An overland truck bed rack lets you take full advantage of vertical space, keeping essentials secure while freeing up room in your bed for larger gear.
The Thule Xsporter Pro Truck Bed Rack is a gamechanger for overlanders. With a 600 lb. load capacity, it’s strong enough to carry rooftop tents, cargo baskets, and more. Its adjustable height makes it suitable for any rig, and aerodynamic WindDiffuser technology means you won’t tear your hair out over any obnoxious whistling or rattling.
Rooftop Tent
After a long day on the trail, the last thing you want is to spend hours searching for a level campsite or wrestling tent poles. A rooftop tent lets you set up camp in minutes, keeping you far from the cold ground and uninvited guests (think spiders, snakes, and other less-favorable critters).
The Rough Country Hard Shell Rooftop Tent is designed to make camping as convenient as possible. It comes with a queen-sized mattress made from 2-inch high-density foam, plus a removable and washable cover. It sets up in minutes and has plenty of room for you and 1-2 additional companions to enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep.
Winches and Recovery Gear
Seasoned overlanders will say that getting stuck is all part of the adventure—but only if you have the right gear to pull yourself out. Whether you’re bogged down in mud or caught in deep sand, you’ll be glad to have a winch when the trail fights back.
The Rough Country Pro Series Winch is built for serious recovery situations. With a 5.5-hp motor, 9,500 lb. pulling capacity, and a waterproof rating of 1P67, this reliable tool is ready to help you navigate unexpected mishaps quickly and safely.
Roof Racks and Platform Racks
Overland prep is all about maximizing every inch of your vehicle’s real estate. Even with truck bed drawers and racks, it’s a good idea to add a roof rack for additional storage opportunities.
The Westin Mesa Roof Rack gives you the extra storage space you need without dragging down your vehicle. It’s crafted from durable extruded aluminum that’s both lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Plus, its modular design makes it easy to customize, with plenty of tie-down points that let you secure your gear with peace of mind.
Overlanding Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Checklist
Taking risks can be part of the fun, but safety should still be a priority. The last thing you want is your rig breaking down in the backcountry, miles away from help. A thorough pre-trip inspection ensures your vehicle is up for the challenge.
Some things to check for before hitting the road:
Even if you’ve checked for all these issues yourself, it’s a good idea to let a professional take a look just to be safe.
Shop the Best Gear for Your Overlanding Vehicle at Campway’s
Every great overland adventure starts with the right gear and a vehicle that’s ready for anything. Whether you need rugged storage solutions, rooftop tents, or recovery gear, having the right setup makes all the difference when you’re off the grid.
At Campway’s, we offer a wide selection of top-quality truck accessories to help you prepare for every challenge the road throws your way. Our friendly team of professionals is excited to outfit your rig with the perfect overland gear for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Don’t wait until you’re stuck in the mud to realize what you forgot to pack—shop our selection online or find a Campway’s location near you to make sure your vehicle is fully equipped for your next outdoor excursion.
