Blog Posts
Dec 15, 2020
Known the world over as a fun way to experience the outdoors, overlanding is finally grabbing hold in the U.S. and people can’t get enough of it.
Many consider it a combination of off-road driving and camping, yet what actually is involved in overlanding in a Jeep or off-road truck?
To thoroughly enjoy and get an exciting experience from it, here is a little bit about what overlanding really is and why it is different than just driving out to make a campsite for a few days before turning around and coming home again.
What Is Overland Camping Traditionally?
Overland camping, more widely known as simply overlanding, originated in the Australian outback where people did it either out of economic necessity or to travel long distances over barren lands.
It was a method of being self-sufficient while traveling in an outfitted Jeep or truck, essentially crossing long distances while bringing ones home along with them, pausing to camp as needed then pack everything up to continue the journey.
The idea eventually took off as a type of wilderness camping, finding its way throughout Europe and the rest of the world, eventually making its way to America, where it has become more popular over time as a fun and adventurous alternative to regular campsite camping.
How Does Overlanding Differ Than Off-Roading?
Though both off-roading and overlanding involve negotiating trails and obstacles, where the focus lies is what separates them.
With off-roading, the focus is on having fun with a 4x4 vehicle while seeking out obstacles and conquering them.
On the other hand, overlanding focuses on the journey and negotiating all of the obstacles encountered along the way.
You still need to be able to clear them; however, the emphasis is what will be encountered on the other side, not how big or difficult the obstacle may be.
Which Vehicles Work Best for Overlanding?
There are no specific vehicles recommended for overlanding, just outfitted Jeeps or trucks that can handle the terrain and obstacles.
Unlike off-road builds that might be constructed for specific purposes like rock crawling or mudding, overlanding simply requires a 4WD vehicle that has a durable suspension, A/T tires that provide great traction, and a ride that is comfortable enough for spending hours driving while also carrying necessary gear.
Whether that is a Jeep with an Overland Rack, a 4WD SUV, or a pickup truck with storage in the bed, it really doesn’t matter.
A well-equipped Jeep or truck that can handle a wide range of lower-level obstacles while being fun to drive is what works best.
Where Can You Go When Overlanding?
The more important question is where can’t you go when overlanding?
Overlanding is open to anyone looking to pick a trail and just start driving as long as it is done on trails open to the public.
In the United States, there are thousands of miles of off-road routes for overlanding, many notable ones in the Southwest including the Rubicon Trail across the Sierra Mountains.
Arizona, Utah, and California are notable for having some absolutely beautiful and challenging routes; however, there are plenty throughout the country in Colorado, Oregon, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New York, and just about any other state as well as many gorgeous trails in Canada.
Ready For A First Overlanding Trip?
The most important thing to remember about overland camping is that it is all about the experience.
It is a relaxed form of off-roading that allows you to be challenged on the obstacles as they are encountered with the primary goal being to explore what’s on the other side of them.
The camping can be as simple or luxurious as desired as long as you have fun, enjoy the trails, and feel that sense of adventure when out exploring new places!
