VSSL – Java G45 Coffee Grinder

If you live by the adage, “But first, coffee,” the G45 Coffee Grinder from VSSL should be on your radar. With 50 grind settings and an efficient grinder, you’d think that would be enough, but the VSSL team designed this piece of kit to go above and beyond. The handle transforms into a locking carabiner, so it’s easy to attach to your pack or cook kit. The magnetic knob provides ample purchase stashes in the lower section, and the whole thing fits perfectly into an Aero Press, making for a compact brewing kit that fits anywhere. The overall build quality inspires confidence, and any coffee lover can be sure that they’ll be using the G45 both at home and on the trail for years to come.

MSRP: $220

Snow Peak – Chopping Board Set

Snow Peak is legendary for the design and durability of their gear. With their roots in titanium wares, the product line now includes tents, apparel, and everything you can imagine you’d need to cook in camp, ranging from ultra-minimalist backpacking to giant car camping kitchens that can feed a large group. While we keep plenty of Snow Peak items in our rotation, the Chopping Board Set goes on every single trip. It provides a sharp knife and sturdy cutting board, no matter if we’re preparing a feast or chopping up some meat and veg for some hasty kabobs over the campfire. The board folds in half to serve as a case for the knife that’s magnetically secured to keep everything safe and secure. The board also fits into the IGT System to serve as a prep surface.

MSRP: $65

Sea to Summit – Detour Series Cook Set

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

The Detour series from Sea to Summit includes kitchen items that strike a great balance between packability and usability. Stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean, while the collapsible silicone components provide excellent space savings. If you’re looking for a compact cook kit that will last for years with proper care, this is a great choice that travels really well.

The Detour series is BPA-free and features stainless construction. The utensils include texture on the handles for grip. Polished sections are easy to clean up, and the triple-ply bottom of the cooking pot provides even heat distribution. Silicone sections allow for collapsing construction while remaining sturdy when deployed. Plus, everything packs down for easy transport, especially for motorcycle explorers. Check out our review.

MSRP: Starting at $200

Ignik – Firecan Elite Fire Pit

When time and conditions allow, we love to have a campfire at every opportunity, but prep, weather, and other factors mean that’s not always a possibility. However, the Firecan Elite Fire Pit from Ignik has made it easier than ever to still enjoy a fire when we don’t have time to gather firewood or under certain burn ban restrictions. The quick-connect hose and easy ignition mean that we can have a fire within minutes of parking the rig. The flame is fully adjustable to dial in the heat, and when you’re done, the whole thing packs up into a convenient package. We’ve paired it with the 20LB Tank Case Seat so that we can set the Firecan up anywhere around camp, and it’s an extra seat if guests stop by to enjoy the fire.

MSRP: $300

Jetboil – Genesis Base Camp 2 Burner

For decades, I used the same green two-burner stove for most of my overland cooking needs. It didn’t simmer great, and it was a pain to light on occasion, but it had mostly worked for countless trips. Then I on a trip last fall I got a chance to use the Genesis Base Camp system from Jetboil, and I quickly realized why I had been seeing more and more of these amongst friends and around the Overland Expo camping areas. For starters, the pot, skillet, and burners all pack up into a surprisingly small carry case. The burners provide every level of heat you could need to cook up a great backcountry dinner that rivals anything you might make at home. If you need more culinary tools, your Jetboil backpacking stove can be attached to the Jetlink system.

MSRP: $450

Geyser – Portable Camping Shower System

We’ve been big fans of the Geyser Shower System for years, and not just for our personal hygiene purposes. It’s a great way to get dish duty taken care of while using a shockingly small amount of water. The sponge system makes it easy to scrub stubborn messes, and the Geyser System provides hot water to break up baked-on food quickly. When it’s post-dinner shower time, you can swap out the sponge in seconds. The Geyser is a great option if you’re traveling with minimal dishes and don’t want to deplete your water supply in the pursuit of keeping them clean.

MSRP: $320

Zarges – K470 Aluminum Storage Case

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

The camp kitchen category is easy to get disorganized, so we always prioritize a good storage system to wrangle the chaos. The latest iteration of our camp kitchen all packs into a Zarges K470 Aluminum Storage Case. It’s a heirloom piece of kit that works for a wide range of gear storage solutions. Plus, you can further organize it with a number of products from Zarges. I appreciate that Zarges has committed to building a number of case sizes for years and this allows you adopt a stacking system without fear of it being discontinued. This box rides atop another Zarge case that holds essentials in my truck 24/7 and with the addition of one strap the whole thing remains sturdy and secure across any terrain.

MSRP: $461

Dometic – GO Hydration Water Faucet

Water is one of the most important supplies on any trip, but wrangling large plastic containers and jugs gets old fast. Add a touch of civility to your camp kit with the Dometic GO Hydration Water. It remains one of the most useful and innovative campsite gadgets we’ve come across.

The faucet is a self-contained water pump with a hose that is long enough to be used with almost any water container. The rechargeable battery and mini pump are self-contained in the faucet itself, and it can dispense a liter per minute or about 150 liters per charge. A magnetic base keeps it in place on ferrous surfaces, and a simple finger tap on the touch-sensitive top turns it on and off. There’s even a small LED light built in, so you don’t have to power up lights at night for that quick drink. If you don’t have a gravity-fed water system (or even if you do), the Dometic GO is a great way to dispense water. It’s also a great addition to any campervan setup. 

MSRP: $100

To make sure you’re well-rested and ready for the next leg of your journey, you have to go prepared with the right sleeping pad and sleeping bag. 

Gear Considerations

Your environment will most likely dictate your equipment, but so will your rig. Even if you’re traveling by motorcycle, you’ll want a high-quality packable sleeping bag and sleeping pad. If your roof-top tent has a great mattress, you can get by with just a good sleeping bag and a pillow.

All high-quality sleeping bags are rated with a comfort rating expressed in degrees. In recent years, many companies have adopted a standardized system, so you don’t have to worry about the trustworthiness of the rating. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, and some brands can be rather liberal with their ratings. Just because you don’t freeze to death at the stated temperature doesn’t mean you will have a comfortable night. 

We’re going to offer some suggestions for quality sleep gear below, but if you decide to shop around, make sure you purchase from a reputable brand and read reviews. 

Sleeping Pads

Before we dive into bags, let’s take a look at the often overlooked sleeping pads. Moto campers, overlanders using ground tents, and even those that aren’t happy with their roof-top tent mattress will find that the market has evolved far beyond the flimsy foam pads of years past. 

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad

The NeoAir XLite is very popular with the ultralight and thru-hiking crowds. These groups prioritize packability and weight over most considerations, but that doesn’t mean this pad is uncomfortable. The regular size weighs in at only 12-ounces but provides 2.5-inches of padding. It also offers a 4.2 R-value, meaning that it’s suitable for cold temperatures, and it won’t let the ground temperature rob you of valuable warmth. 

It all packs down to the size of a water bottle, so if you’re short on space, but you’re looking for a comfortable pad that can take you into the winter season, the NeoAir XLite is a great option. 

MSRP from $209.95

NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad

Foam pads used to be the best option out there, and they still have their place. They’re great to boost the R-value of an inflatable pad, or if you’re using a cot and need a bit more padding. If your roof-top tent mattress is leaving you in need of more support, a foam pad slipped under it is a great way to increase your comfort level.

The Switchback from NEMO upgrades the classic foam pad with an accordion design that’s easier to manage than the rollable options. The shape of the molding provides 20% more space for uncompressed sleeping bag insulation. The Switchback offers an R-value of 2, and one side is made of a heat reflective layer. It’s tough and durable, as you don’t have to worry about the holes and leaks that can plague inflatable pads.

MSRP: $49.95

Sleeping Bags

There are different shapes, closure methods, and other various features to consider when choosing a sleeping bag. While most of the options come down to personal preference, the decision on the fill of your bag should be based on where you venture. 

If you find yourself in very cold climates, and you highly value a bag that’s compact when stored, then down insulation is the way to go. However, if you’re often venturing in wet climates, and there’s a chance your bag could be wet, then take a look at some synthetic options. Synthetic-filled bags retain their insulation properties even when wet. 

Western Mountaineering UltraLite Sleeping Bag: 20F Down

Western Mountaineering is lauded for making some of the most high-quality sleeping bags on the market, and although their price tags are steep, if you’re into quality over quantity, this bag is for you. While it costs north of six hundred bucks, you won’t have to replace it any time soon; its comfort levels also surpass its competitors, adding to its appeal.

The UltraLite features 850+ down fill, has an interlocking collar that keeps out drafts, and is Made in the USA, to boot. With its super-light weight of less than two pounds, this will easily fit into any rig’s storage area. The mummy shape with slightly narrow shoulders will maintain warmth through the night, and the ExtremeLite shell features a high thread count for extra durability.  

MSRP: $610

Big Agnes Dream Island 35 Double Sleeping Bag

Adventurers looking for a double bag should check out the newest offering from Big Agnes. The Dream Island weighs just over 6-lbs., but provides a spacious and comfortable night of rest for two. Its 35-degree rating is an excellent middle ground that covers plenty of three-season camping situations. 

 The updated shell is PFC-free and water-repellent. The FireLine Max Synthetic insulation is a 50% post-consumer recycled material. Either two single or one double sleeping pad can be secured to the Dream Island. 

One feature that sets the Dream Island apart from the competition is the zip-off top layer. This can be used as a comforter around camp, and it quickly zips back onto the base when you’re ready to turn in.

MSRP: $299.95

Quilts

Sleepers who don’t like to be restricted by the shape of a sleeping bag should look at some of the quilts available on the market. These are very popular with hammock campers, but they also work great for many overlanders. 

When you’re in a sleeping bag, your body compresses the insulation that’s under you, rendering it almost useless. Backcountry quilts cut out this under-body insulation and offer more freedom of movement in a lighter, more compact package.

Therm-a-Rest Corus 20 Quilt

With 650-fill-power Nikwax hydrophobic down, you can safely venture into the backcountry without stressing about every little shower or the humidity. The Corus quilt’s down-fill absorbs 90% less water and dries three times faster than regular down while remaining PFC free. 

 To keep weight down, Therm-a-Rest uses mesh baffle walls so that the down stays in place without adding unnecessary weight. If you decide to use this quilt with a sleeping pad, there’s a removable strap system that keeps the bag under you, regardless of any tossing and turning throughout the night. 

If you need to batten down the hatches due to a chilly night, the side baffles and snap neck help you seal the quilt against your pad to combat drafts.

The Corus is also available in a 32-degree model. Join the waitlist to snap up one of these high-end quilts.

MSRP: $299.95

Eagles Nest Outfitters Vesta Hammock Top Quilt

The Vesta from ENO is understandably marketed to the hammock crowd. However, it’s useful in many more situations than hours spent hanging amongst the trees.

With two layers of Primaloft insulation, the Vesta will keep you toasty. It’s rated in the 30-50 degree range, so it’s a great late-spring to early-fall option. When you decide you need a bit of warmth when lounging around camp, the toe box unzips to transform the Vesta into a rectangular comforter. 

MSRP: $179.95

Pillow

It’s easy to overlook a quality pillow when thinking about camp sleeping gear. Some might choose to bring along their pillow from home, but that’s often a bulky option. There are some great packable and comfortable models of backcountry pillows.

Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow

Like all their gear, Sea to Summit’s Aeros Premium Pillow is a high-quality option for adventurers literally looking for a comfortable place to lay their heads. It’s constructed to provide maximum comfort with a soft outer layer and synthetic insulation. The curved internal baffles make it easy to keep the pillow in the proper position. 

The multifunction valves assist in fine-tuning the firmness to suit any sleeper, and it’s available in three sizes so you can find the pillow that’s just right for you. It’s also available in a range of sizes to fit any sleeper.

MSRP: $54.95-$64.95

Cots

Cot technology has long surpassed the vintage canvas and wood models of the past. If you’re using a ground tent, a cot is a great way to up your comfort. Plus, it allows you to store gear under your sleeping area.

Helinox Lite Cot

If you’re familiar with Helinox’s chairs, you know they take camp furniture very seriously. Their Lite Cot is no exception. It packs down smaller than a pair of boots and offers just a few inches of lift off of the hard ground. 

This cot could be great for moto campers that are in a small tent but who want to avoid relying on only a sleeping pad for comfort. It weighs under 3 lbs. and packs down to a 5 x 21-inch package. It’s rated to support 265 lbs. 

The best part is the internal bungie that self assembles all of the poles, so you won’t be left with a puzzle of parts at the end of the day. 

MSRP: $299.95

Alps Mountaineering Escalade Cot

This cot offers classic construction in modern materials and guarantees years of camp comfort. The Escalade is super simple to set up with just a few folding legs and locking supports.

The large model measures 80 x 31 x 21 inches, so it offers plenty of room to stretch out and roll around. One modern touch to this classic design is the omission of the end bars. You don’t have to worry about hitting your head or your foot going to sleep when pressed against the hard surface.  

MSRP: $169.99

Adventure Medical Kits Mini Medical Kit

Starting small, this tiny kit from the pros at Adventure Medical is a great piece that can live in your pack, or you can even toss it in a jacket pocket when you take a quick hike away from camp with only the bare minimum. While it’s far from comprehensive, the Mini Medical Kit includes the essentials for treating cuts, scrapes, blisters, and abrasions. It’s also a great option for the kids, especially when you want them to get in the habit of carrying the essentials in a fun and smaller form factor.

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Mountaineer Medical Kit

For major expeditions with large groups, this larger Mountaineer kit from Adventure Medical is a great option. Designed to serve a group of up to 14 individuals for 28 days, it can address over 200 different types of medical needs. While large kits like this can be overwhelming, the easy-care system organizes the kit into injury-specific sections so that you can find what you need in an emergency situation. 

When you venture away from your rig, the detachable Summit Kit allows you to take along the essentials without lugging the larger bag up the mountain. For guides, overlanders who take long trips, and even adventurers who want a serious kit at home, the Mountaineer Medical Kit is a great option. 

Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

Many overlanders adventure with a furry companion, so we can’t forget about pet first aid. This ADS (Adventure Dog Series) kit not only serves as a good mid-sized option but also has specialty items and a dog-centric guide. It’s required equipment if you take your dog with you on the trail.

If your dog eats something they shouldn’t, the 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can induce vomiting, the tick remover can safely take care of those parasitic pests, and the triangular bandage can work as a soft muzzle so that you can safely administer aid. 

Of course, it has all of the regular equipment, so it’s useful for you and your human companions. At .5 x 5.3 x 3.55 inches, this kit packs a lot of equipment into a relatively small size. 

Room for Expansion

It’s important to remember that it’s nearly impossible for any off-the-shelf first aid kit to meet the needs of your travels to a T. That’s why you should look for additional supplies that are specific to your activities and environment. If you’re traveling in the Southwest, ticks and poison ivy probably won’t be on your radar like they would be during a summer trip to New England. As always, make sure you know how to use this equipment before you need it, even if that’s just thoroughly reading the instructions.

JASE Medical Emergency Antibiotics Kit

JASE Medical offers prebuilt and fully customizable kits that include a wide variety of antibiotics and other prescription medications that are designed to keep you healthy and ahead of sudden illness when you’re miles away from the nearest doctor or pharmacy. The prescription process is quick and easy, so you can receive a well-stocked kit before you head off on that last-minute trip to faraway destinations. Each kit includes an easy-to-follow booklet that lets you know which medication treats what conditions and how to utilize them correctly. For international and remote travel, this is a worthwhile addition to your first aid supplies. Read our full review here.

Adventure Medical Kits Trauma Pak with QuikClot Kit

This bundle from Adventure Medical is a great bleeding control option for situations that don’t need a tourniquet. The QuikClot can stop a surprising amount of blood, and the other items are useful for bandaging wounds and keeping them clean. 

MY MEDIC Wound Closure Kit/4-in-1 Suture Kit

Suture is a scary word to plenty of people, but unfortunately, some emergency situations require wound closures beyond a basic bandage. If you’re miles away from the nearest clinic, you might have to suture up a wound if things go wrong. With this kit from the trusted pros at MY MEDIC, you can address those emergencies confidently. The kit includes four different ways to close wounds, including sutures, surgical tape, adhesive, and ZZIPS Wound Closure Strips. Plus, it has all of the supporting gear you need to address a variety of wound care scenarios. Don’t wait until someone needs to be stitched up to learn how to suture. Find a class, and even after you get trained, practice your skills. A banana peel makes a great model for practicing suturing, and you’ll be more confident in your skills when the time arises.

Tecnu Oak-N-Ivy Cleanser

A bad case of poison ivy or poison oak can make a great trip a miserable experience. Avoidance by being able to identify these plants is best, but if you are exposed, having something to combat the itch is well worth the space in your kit. The Tecnu Oak-N-Ivy Cleanser doesn’t require water, and the rave reviews were enough to convince us that it works. Simply spray areas that might have been contaminated with the oils from the plants to start the healing process and to separate the oils from your skin. It can also be used on contaminated clothing and tools.

Tick Patrol Tick Remover Tool

These nasty little parasites can cause several diseases, including Lyme and Alpha-Gal. Even if you don’t contract something from the tick, improperly removing it after it has attached can lead to an infection. To avoid that, be sure to use the Tick Remover Tool to rid yourself of ticks without taking a chance on their heads detaching at the site of the bite. This is a tiny piece of gear that comes in at under $7, so there’s no reason to omit it from your kit, even if you rarely encounter ticks on your travels.

CAT Tourniquet

Especially in the backcountry, a severe bleed injury is a major emergency. Outside of the basics of applying pressure, a tourniquet is the best option for controlling bleeding. There are several options on the market, but the current generation CAT Tourniquet is highly regarded as one of the best. When properly applied, it can control life-threatening bleeding for an extended amount of time so that the patient can be transported to a hospital. 

SAM Splint

While we hope that no one ever has to worry about addressing a broken bone on an overlanding trip, if it does happen, stabilizing the break and keeping the injured comfortable is the first order of business. A SAM Splint doesn’t take up a lot of room but can be infinitely useful for stabilizing practically any break. It packs up small and is reusable, so don’t miss this addition to your emergency gear.

Additional Equipment

Before heading out, consider any other needs you might need to meet based on your environment or individual health requirements. Epi-pens, pediatric medication, diabetes accommodations, and a host of other specifics may affect what you pack. If you’re hitting the trails with new people, it’s definitely worth the time to check that they have anything that they might need for any special medical situations. 

Training

Here at Overland Expo, we’re big proponents of training; it’s in our motto, and that applies to driving, recovery, and a host of other backcountry skill sets. First aid and emergency preparedness are definitely among the categories in which proper training is a must. MY MEDIC offers online courses on a wide variety of medical topics. You can also seek out trusted schools and training entities in your area to improve your first aid skill set. These can include NOLS, community organizations, and private training. Regardless of where you decide to go based on your needs — price, location, specific skills taught — be sure to research the training source to ensure they’re trusted and vetted.

AEV — Trail Recovery Kit

Looking for an all-in-one (bag) recovery kit solution? AEV has you covered with this ensemble that includes an AEV recovery strap, tree strap, winch extension strap, snatch block, a pair of 3/4-inch anchor shackles, tire deflator and a pair of gloves. It all comes in a tough U.S.-made bag to keep things sorted. Depending on your vehicle, you may need a larger or different kit, and AEV has multiple options.

MSRP: $633

GlueTread — Full-Size Sidewall Repair Kit

A massive tire failure can be just as bad as getting stuck in the backcountry. Of course, a full-size spare is a huge help, but for an added level of preparedness, it’s well worth packing along a Sidewall Kit from GluTread. It’s a lot of peace of mind in a small package, and it comes from a team of experts who stand behind their product.

The patches in this kit are specifically designed for oversized tires and 4×4 use. The adhesive is specifically designed to dry quickly so you can get back on the trail in as little as 10 minutes. Each package includes four patches of varying sizes, four bottles of GlueTread’s specifically engineered adhesive, eight applicator tips, and ten pieces of sandpaper, so you’ll be covered for plenty of sidewall tears in the future. It all comes in a resealable bag for easy storage.

MSRP: $49.95

ARB — Recovery Gloves

During any vehicle recovery operation, it’s a good idea to have some gloves on to protect your hands from abrasion and increase grip since you’ll be working with ropes, harnesses, and even clearing dirt and rocks from wheels. This pair from ARB offers breathability and wear resistance in a quick-drying fabric. Keep a pair (or two or more) in your rig, and you and your crew will be ready for action. Hand injuries can quickly end your attempts to manipulate your recovery equipment – and keep you from working and playing. A tough pair of gloves protects your hands and also gives a bit of warmth in cold situations.

MSRP: $17.95

MaxTrax — MKII Traction Platforms

Orange traction platforms are rather ubiquitous in the world of overlanding. While there are some good options and plenty of copycats out there, you can’t deny that MaxTrax are pioneers in the market, and for good reason. A set of MaxTrax MKII traction platforms will get you out of the muck without pulling cable, and they can make sketchy spots on the trail feel much safer.

The fiber-reinforced nylon boards won’t break, crack, or stress whiten with use. They’re also UV stable and won’t fade if stored outdoors. Beyond added traction, they also work as shovels to clear snow, sand, and mud. MaxTrax traction platforms are backed by a lifetime warranty and are proudly made in Australia from Australian materials. Once you use a set, you’ll quickly see why they’re so popular.

MSRP: $259.99

Bubba Rope — 7/8″x30′ Rope

Bubby Ropes are legendary for providing quick and relatively easy ways to recover bogged vehicles. While safe operation and proper training are still a must, these are simple to use compared to other recovery methods, and they will recover vehicles in situations that will surprise you. This specific rope is a slightly smaller, and therefore easier to store, version of the classic Bubba Rope.

The Bubba Rope is made from high-quality nylon, and it can be used for both recovery and towing situations. These are water, UV, and abrasive resistant, so you can expect years of use before needing to replace this trust piece of recovery gear. It’s rated with a breaking strength of 28,600 pounds and includes a mesh storage bag.

MSRP: $240

Factor 55 — Hitchlink 2.0 for 2-inch Receiver

If you ever plan to use your rear receiver hitch as a recovery point you must make sure you’re hitch is properly secured and you have a safe mounting point. The Hitchlink 2.0 from Factor 55 gives you peace of mind for just such situations with a 9,500-pound rating. It’s made from CNC-machined 6000 series aluminum and provides a lightweight but strong anchor point. It’s secured with a hitch pin (not included) and accepts common 3/4 screw pin shackles as well soft shackles up to 1/2 inch.

MSRP: $83

ARB — Snatch Strap

What’s a “snatch strap?” Think of it as an industrial-strength rubber band built into a tow rope. When slowly pulling a vehicle out with a tow rope doesn’t work, sometimes giving the rescue vehicle a little “runway” to add momentum is enough to get the stuck rig moving enough to get the extraction process underway. The problem is that a hard pull with a tow rope can damage vehicles, snap off parts – sending them flying at high speed, which can cause injury – or snap the tow rope.

That’s where the shock-absorbing feature of a snatch strap comes into play. The stretching ability of the strap allows for the harder “pull” force required for the recovery but also ramps the “pull” force while easing the stress on both vehicles. But again, Proper use of a snatch strap requires instruction to prevent injury and vehicle damage.

ARB has been making snatch straps for years, and we rank a snatch strap right up there with traction boards in terms of effectiveness. With a 20% kinetic stretch rating and a minimum breaking strength of 24,000 lbs, you can be sure that these straps can stand up to the stress of snatch strap recoveries. Don’t be tempted to use a regular tow strap for a difficult recovery. This option from ARB will allow you to safely extract one vehicle from sticky situations with nothing but another vehicle and some know-how.

MSRP: $129.95

ARB — Tree Trunk Protector Straps

We’re big supporters of Leave No Trace overlanding, but sometimes you have to call on Mother Nature to lend a hand (or a tree trunk) so you can winch your way out of trouble. ARB’s Tree Trunk Protector straps are designed to be a non-stretching anchor point for your winch so that you can safely self-rescue without damaging the tree. The three-inch width helps spread out the load to prevent damage to the tree. Nature thanks you for your consideration – and so does the next person who needs that tree to get out of a tight spot.

MSRP: $59.95

Warn — Spydura Synthetic Winch Extension Rope

Of course, you have enough winch line on that spool – until you don’t. Just to be sure, we suggest a winch extension rope like this 50-foot-long option from Warn. It’s highly abrasion-resistant and offers 10,000 lb. breaking strength. Looped ends with fabric covers won’t damage painted surfaces. Maybe get two?

MSRP: $215.59

ComeUp — DV-18 12V 18,000-Pound Winch

There’s no denying a winch, and some key accessories can get your rig out of a lot of sketchy situations. And while there are some big names in the winch market, we like how ComeUp has added some innovative features to the DV-18 bumper-mounted winch, such as a rotatable clutch assembly and line release that can make it easier to haul out a vehicle even if it’s a bit off-angle, and an overheat indicator on the remote control for safe operation. The 7-horsepower motor working through a 315:1 reduction gearing has the power to get even a stubbornly stuck vehicle moving toward safety. An 82-foot run of 1/2-inch rope is included, as is a 17-foot tether for the remote. Just to reiterate, recovery equipment, especially winches, require training for safe operation, but once you’re trained, you’ll be amazed at what a winch can conquer.

MSRP: $1,760

“It’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.” Anyone who’s adventured off the beaten path knows this way of thinking, whether it applies to the winch you’ve only used once, the extra batteries you have charged up and ready to roll, or even an extra first aid kit. Much like the other necessary items that take up room in our rigs, roadside emergency kits are one of those pieces of gear it would be unwise to leave behind — even if it does end up sitting unopened in the back of your SUV for years on end.

Lucky for the space-conscious amongst us, today’s roadside emergency kits are more compact yet featured-filled than ever before; even if you’re working with a limited amount of space, it’s a no-brainer to bring one of these handy kits along. Below, we’ve picked out the best roadside emergency kits to keep in your rig, from budget-friendly options to the most prepared picks on the market.

Uncharted Supply Co. The Overlander

As the name suggests, this roadside kit was developed with the overlanding community in mind, and comes well-equipped for just about everything you’d need in a roadside emergency situation. Built to fit inside the tough-as-nails Yeti GoBox 15, the Overlander is weather-proof, designed for space optimization and includes a number of high-quality products stored in resealable packaging designed for long-term use.

The Overlander includes: a convertible shovel/pickaxe, gloves, a flashlight, three chem Lights, Uncharted’s First Aid Pro first aid kit, The Zeus Pro (the brand’s recently upgraded jump start kit), The Hideaway (Uncharted’s weather-resistant windbreaker), The Extractor tow strap and a multi-tool.

If you’re interested in The Overlander, it’s currently on preorder, with units expected to start shipping February 17, 2025.

MSRP: $499

Decked x BoxoUSA Tool Bag With Tool Roll

You may be familiar with Decked in regards to its truck bed tool boxes and cargo van storage systems, but did you know the brand also sells one of the most robust roadside emergency kits around? The Decked x BoxoUSA Tool Bag With Tool Roll is one of the most well-equipped tool bags built for the road, and includes a full tool roll stuffed to the brim with BoxoUSA tools (all of which come with a limited lifetime warranty, by the way).

The roll includes an array of wrenches, ratchets, sockets, hammers, a pry bar, a heavy-duty diagonal side cutter, over seven pliers and related tools, and a variety of drivers, including Phillips and flat options. The tool bag and roll are constructed with heavy-duty Cordura nylon, with robust zippers and external mole webbing system for extra storage. The entire system is compact and designed to fit within a Decked tool box, or the back of your sedan, SUV or any other vehicle you plan on taking into the wild.

MSRP: $595

Preppi The Prepster Two-Person | 3-Day Emergency Kit Bag

For aesthetically-driven overlanders that also like to be prepared for any emergency on the road, let me introduce you to the sleekest, coolest roadside first-aid kit I’ve yet to come across: The Prepster by Preppi. Preppi’s signature first aid kit comes chock-full of the supplies you’ll need on-hand in the event of an emergency, including but not limited to food rations, a tent, space blanket, water and air respirators. The supplies are all housed in the brand’s signature heavy-duty metal framed bags, which are made in Los Angeles from water resistant canvas and leather. The entire kit comes with a lifetime guarantee, and is designed to keep two people supplied for three days.

The Prepster can be upgraded with additional add-ons, including a satellite messenger for $250, a Biolite solar panel for $99.95, or a monogram for $75.

MSRP: $485

MyMedic MyFAK

With over 1200 five-star reviews, it’s easy to see why the MyFAK continues to be one of the most popular options for roadside emergency kits, whether you’re driving your daily commute or heading out in the backcountry for a few weeks. MyMedic’s most popular first-aid kit is as robust as it is eye-catching, and comes in two versions: Standard and Pro. The Pro option includes over 115 first aid supplies, as well as a folding page for extra organization, extra space built in so that you can organize as you wish, and versatile straps for mounting and storing.

As a bonus, right now MyMedic is offering free life-saving Training Course upon purchase; the course provides information on how customers can use their kit in any emergency situation.

MSRP: $169.95

Ranallto Car Emergency Roadside Tool Kit

Being prepared in the event of an emergency doesn’t have to be expensive, and the Ranallto Car Emergency Roadside Tool Kit proves that point. Featuring jumper cables, a small car repair kit, a multi-functional shovel, medical supply kit and warning triangle for roadside emergencies, this budget-conscious kit has everything you need, all for less than fifty bucks.

MSRP: $44.99

Our Favorite Overlanding Tents

Alu Cab — 3R Expedition Rooftop Tent

The 3R Expedition is the latest rendition of a wedge-style stent from Alu Cab. It’s feature-packed and built for the long haul. Not only is it an excellent shelter in all conditions, but the 3R Expedition is supported by a host of accessories, including a direct mount 270-degree awning, a similar shower cube, a drop-down interior table, and even a mattress frame that transforms into a couch. If you want to learn more about this bomb-proof tent that will serve you in the backcountry for years to come, you can read our full review here.

MSRP: $4,399

Freespirit Recreation — Evolution 2

The FSR Evolution V2 is a premium rooftop tent that has earned its place in the upper echelon of hardshell RTT options. Its thoughtful design, high-quality construction, and four-season performance make it stand out in a time when overlanders have such a wide variety of options in the market. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $4,095

Freespirit Recreation — Odyssey

Freespirit Recreation’s (FSR) Odyssey aluminum hard-shell rooftop tent is a slim, crossbar-capable, and side-hinged clamshell rooftop tent. It boasts a relatively low weight at 134 pounds, despite its impressive spec sheet. Although we found it easy to use and rugged, we did feel it could benefit from slightly smoother operating hardware and a comfier mattress. That said, for those wanting a slim, light, roomy, and utility-rich aluminum hard-shell rooftop tent, the Odyssey is hard to beat. You can read our full review here.

MSRP: $3,295

OZTENT — RV-3

OZTENT’s RV-3 tent sets up in 30 seconds (no, really), packs down nearly as fast, and can withstand 50-mile-per-hour winds. These bona fides make it one of the best ground tents I’ve ever tested. It has a great design. We tested the OZTENT RV-3 over four overlanding trips now and have become absolutely smitten with the thing — especially for winter camping. It is rated at sleeping three to four people, and it may. All we know is that it has enough room for an extra-long cot, which is essential for tall overlanders, plus two or so feet of space for standing and dressing. And it’s a pleasure to use. In fact, it might be the best ground tent for winter camping we have ever encountered. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $999

Roofnest — Condor Overland

The Condor Overland from Roofnest takes the hybrid rooftop tent design to the next level providing a compact package when closed but a roomy and comfortable space when deployed. The aluminum shell not only keeps the tent protected, but also offers mounting points for tools and other accessories. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $3,745

Honorable Mentions Best Overlanding Tents

Alu-Cab — LT50 Lightweight Tent

Plenty of overlanders adventure in vehicles that might not be rated for heavier rooftop tents, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have options. The LT50 Lightweight Tent from Alu Cab is perfect for station wagons, smaller SUVs, or just overlanders looking to remain weight-conscious while outfitting their rig. While it’s lightweight at only 110 pounds, it doesn’t skimp on features. You can still store your bedding inside, with optional load bars and a perimeter track that’s great for mounting awnings and other accessories. If you’re looking for a lightweight but far from minimalist tent, the Alu-Cab LT50 is a great option.

MSRP: $2,699

Gazelle — T4 Hub Tent

If you’ve been to an Overland Expo or even driven by some popular campsites, there’s a great chance you’ve noticed the green and orange dome-style tents that are common amongst overlanders. The Hub series from Gazelle are quick to set up and break down. You can literally go from unzipping the bag to inside the tent within a minute. We prefer the T4 size, which measures 94×94 inches and has a peak height of 76 inches. With the Gazelle T4, you can set up camp, explore your rig all day, and come back to a roomy backcountry abode in the evening.

MSRP: $399.95

iKamper — SkyCamp Mini 3.0

For those of you who’ve heard of — or seen — the gargantuan iKamper Skycamp but worried it was too big for your rig, iKamper has a new option for you: The Skycamp Mini 3.0. Just like the hard-shell foldout Skycamp, the mini expands off the passenger side of your vehicle. Since it’s smaller, the Skycamp Mini 3.0 only supports two campers. You can also choose the color of your hard-shell top color: Black or Rocky Black.

MSRP: $3,699

Rhino Rack — Roof Top Soft Shell Tent

Rhino Rack is known for making a wide range of innovative roof racks for a wide range of vehicles. Now, they’re bringing that expertise to another facet of overlanding with a range of rooftop tents. The Soft Shell model from Rhino Rack is a great lightweight option with a small footprint when closed but plenty of space for two to sleep. Plus, it utilizes a Rhino Rack mounting system for easy installation, interior LEDs, and exterior boot bags you can trust.

MSRP:  $1,799

Sea to Summit — Telos Freestanding Ultralight Tent

Not all overlanding tents have to be on top of the vehicle or the size of small rooms to serve you well in the backcountry. Sea to Summit’s range of Telos Freestanding tents are great options for adventurers who want one tent to do it all, and we mean “do it all.” They’re lightweight enough for backpacking, and the components even come in multiple bags that make it easy to split up or balance the load in your pack. The Telos line also includes three models with subtle differences for different adventurers, including a Plus series with heavier-duty fabrics and a Telos Bikepacking model that’s perfect for mounting on your bike forks. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll get plenty of room for two or three people in a lightweight but spacious package that’s a great shelter for backpacking, bikepacking, moto camping, and overlanding.

MSRP: Starting at $449

Have you ever been caught out in the open country after the sun sets without augmented lighting? Then you know just how dark it can get – and how underwhelming most stock vehicle headlights are off the pavement. If you’ve ever had to do a vehicle repair, set up a campsite, or just answer nature’s call after dark, you also likely understand the importance of decent personal lighting gear beyond a simple flashlight. Thankfully, the age of dim and delicate incandescent lighting has pretty much ended in favor of tiny but bright LEDs that draw very little power and can be quickly recharged from a power bank or USB outlet in your vehicle or even your adventure motorcycle.

From bumper-mounted driving lights to roof-spanning light bars to personal headlamps and lighting that brings some colorful ambiance to your campsite, consult this list of some of the best overland and offroad light options available today.

KC Hilites — SlimLite 8 Lights

Instead of a thin rail of LEDs, as is now the fashion, the SlimLite 8 units essentially duplicate iconic off-road lighting and accessory maker KC HiLiTES’s large, classic 8-inch round incandescent form factor that dates back to the company’s early days in the 1970s and ’80s. But instead of inefficient incandescent bulbs, a total of 18 LEDs are used in a rough X-shaped multi-reflector pattern within the light’s shell, pumping out nearly 13,000 lumens. The SlimLite 8 still generates some heat and features cooling fins on the back of the housing along with a “direct front cooling design.” A moisture-sealed power connection on the back of the light simplifies wiring, and while they look old-school, the tech and enormous output are thoroughly up to date.

MSRP: Starting at $662.97

Rigid Industries — 30-inch Radiance Plus LED Light Bar

If you want to get a solid thin-beam style light bar at an affordable price, the 30-inch Radiance Plus LED light bar by Rigid Industries is an easy choice. They can be mounted almost anywhere using standard rail mounts, or they can fit flush into bumpers. RIGID says the Radiance Plus bars are built with the same high-grade aluminum alloy housing as its popular E-Series but in a slim-line beam format. The Radiance Plus bars are optimized with forward-projecting Broad Spot optics that combine the attributes of a spot and flood beam pattern. Plus, the Radiance Plus bars add a bit of style with built-in back-lighting available in white, amber, red, or blue. But activate the high-powered LEDs, and they’ll turn the space in front of your rig into a daylight playground.

MSRP: Starting at $426

KC Hilites — FLEX ERA LED Light Bar

KC’s Flex Era LED slim-style modules keep things very simple. The system is built around easy-to-install 10-inch segments that can be strung together to make larger light bars and also be built into a curved lightbar for a wider spread of illumination. The beam pattern and color can be modified with special drop-in lenses and filters. A cool amber low-draw LED backlight feature adds a stylish twist when the main lights are off. The segments can also be different colors to match your rig’s color palette. Each 10-inch segment delivers nearly 8,000 lumens of illumination.

MSRP: $499 for the base 10-inch segment, up to $1,800 for a 50-inch segment

Rigid Industries — Ignite Flood Mini-lights

The Ignite is the smallest light in the RIGID product line, but it boasts a strong 1,000-lumen output and low draw, making it perfect for a discreet install on large vehicles – and a perfect fit for most motorcycles as well! The compact housing is under two inches tall and makes the RIGID Ignite a great choice for auxiliary lighting on cars, trucks, motorcycles, UTVs, and even marine applications. It is available in Spot, Flood, or Diffused beam patterns, and the size and price make it easy to mix and match to customize setups for different conditions.

MSRP: $96.29

Coleman — Classic Rechargeable LED Lantern

For decades, campers and explorers have kept the night at bay with Coleman’s classic round lanterns. First fueled by kerosene, then with batteries, and now with LEDs and a rechargeable power bank, the Coleman Classic Rechargeable Lantern remains a favorite. With its familiar green housing, carabiner-type handle, and classic silhouette, it’s tough and ready to work no matter the conditions. Now, with cool-running modern technology, the Classic Lantern can light up a campsite with its 800-lumen maximum output or keep that card game going into the wee hours while dimmed down to a friendly glow. The built-in battery runs it for 45 hours on a charge, then recharges via a common USB cable – and it can charge your phone as well. It is still classic and now more useful, safe, and versatile than ever.

MSRP: $75

BioLite — AlpenGlow Lanterns

Available in three sizes, BioLites’ Alpenglow LED lanterns look like they’re out of a science fiction movie and have the performance to match. AlpenGlow lanterns can illuminate your campground, the inside of your tent, or light your way down the trail. The two larger models have large built-in batteries that can charge phones and other small devices. Each lantern has adjustable intensity levels of white light and yellow light and a variety of colors. The larger lanterns can also show multiple colors at once, phase slowly to different colors, or imitate a flickering candle. The exterior of the lanterns is soft, and they are highly drop-resistant. They are also splash-resistant and operate with one big button on the top of the lantern. Shake them to activate some fun lighting effects or a soothing changing palette of colors.

MSRP: $39.95 to $79.00

DENALI Electronics — D7 Pro Dual Beam LED Lights

Adding auxiliary lighting to your adventure motorcycle has always been somewhat of a compromise. Should you get floods or spots? With the new Denali D7 pro dual beam lights, you no longer have to make that choice. The new D7 pro dual beams feature both flood and spot beams within the single light housing, and they can also change color temperature. The spot and beam lights can also be used together for maximum illumination – an astounding 23,000 lumens per pair. They can also work as a DRL light during the day, and you can pick the color. Included snap-on filters can change the color of the central part of the lights to amber or yellow. They can also be wired in as turn signals and are CANsmart & DialDim compatible for plug-and-play operation on the latest adventure bikes from BMW and others. They are also rated for total submersion.

MSRP: Starting at $399.00

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp

Featuring a bright 400-lumen primary beam, red light function, and the ability to run alkaline or rechargeable batteries, the Black Diamond Spot 400 headlamp packs a lot of lumens into a small package. Three independent LEDs power the broad, spot, and red light segments, and the controls are easy to learn and use. The light module tilts for exact positioning and is comfortable to wear for hours. It returns to the last setting when turned on, and includes a lockout feature so it won’t turn on while packed. Output is a stout 400 lumens at maximum or a campground-friendly six lumens on the lowest setting. It also has SOS and strobe functions and is IPX8-rated water-resistant. There are four headband and casing color options to choose from.

MSRP: $49.95

ARB — NACHO TM 5 Combo

ARB’s tasty NACHO TM5 Combo lights can be used as DOT-compliant fog lights while driving in traffic or as high-powered illumination well off the pavement. The housing and lenses are also curved so that some of the LEDs point upward, while the bottom section of lights is angled downward for seeing into ditches or other close-off-angle obstacles. Each bank of angled lights is individually controllable and includes two amber covers and two smoke covers for customization. While the lights are submersible for a short time, they also have a pressure equalization vent for better durability at different altitudes. Best of all, they come with a lifetime warranty.

MSRP: $499.00

REVEL GEAR — Trail Hound 30-foot 100 LED Colored Light Kit

Sure, you could call them “Christmas lights,” but Revel Gear’s colorful 30-foot string of 100 festive LEDs both look great and serve a real purpose. There’s no need to power up a lantern or flashlight in the middle of the night; just plug these into any power bank or live USB port for just enough illumination for those late-night nature calls or to bring a splash of not-too-bright color and safety to the campsite. They only weigh 1.6 ounces, will run for hours off even a small power bank, and have multiple lighting modes as well. They’re rain and dust-resistant and can weather backcountry conditions. Get a couple of sets and give your campsite some color after dark.

MSRP: $24.95

Fortunately, tire makers have come up with some ingenious solutions that give adventure riders, if not the best of both worlds, at least the capability to enjoy their motorcycles safely in both environments. And since tires are filled with air, there’s a good chance you’ll get a flat at some point, and need to repair it in the field. For those situations, you’ll need to bring some specialized tools and equipment along on your ride.

Adventure Tires 101: Adventure riding tires are often described as “50/50” or “40/60” or even “80/20” types. This is shorthand for the “road use/off-road use” capabilities of a tire. A 50/50 tire is designed to work equally well on road and off, while an 80/20 tire is much more at home on pavement, but can perhaps wander down a dirt or gravel road. Tire wear is a concern, of course, with riding style, load, air pressure, motorcycle type, and more combining to either burn through a set of tires more quickly or extend their life. Unlike most cars and trucks, motorcycle tires wear unevenly since the rear tire is doing all the work and typically wears much faster than the front. Motorcycle tires are also different sizes front to rear, with most adventure bikes using a 21-inch front tire and a 17 or 18-inch rear tire that is much wider than the front. With all that in mind, here are our choices for adventure tires that work well with most motorcycles, but you would do well to check with people who ride the same model motorcycle as yourself to see if there’s a best choice for your particular bike, riding style and intended use scenarios.

Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41

The Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 tires top our list again for good reason. A perennial favorite, Bridgestone seems to have figured out the magic formula for a tire that allows fairly aggressive street riding with full-on off-road tenacity. Generally considered a “40/60” tire with a bit more emphasis on off-road performance, the reliable AX41 tires seem to be a unanimous favorite for many riders on many brands of bikes. Overland Expo’s adventure motorcycle expert Eva Rupert has rolled over 100,000 miles on many sets of 41’s and continues to use them today. You can read Eva’s full review here.

MSRP: $109.38 – $227.68

Heidenau K60

Heidenau’s K60 tread blocks have a unique V-shaped tread pattern that handles the tough stuff off-road but also provides a more continuous contact pattern on the road, making it a good choice for those wanting a bit more road tire performance in their off-road capable tires. Heidenau uses a high natural rubber content, which is very durable, so it is not uncommon to get 20,000 miles on a front and 10,000 miles on a rear tire. When combined with sturdy belted construction, this makes for one of the most longest-lasting tires available to long-distance travelers. For those looking for even more on-road performance, the sibling K60 Scout features a solid center tread section while retaining the heavily siped side sections.

MSRP: $129.69 to $238.46

Dunlop Trailmax Mission

If you need to do a lot of road miles before hitting the dirt, Dunlop Trailmax Mission Tire is one of the best adventure tires on the market today. The Mission delivers knobby-like performance off-road, but has better a bit grip on the street, making it a favorite of enthusiastic road riders who also play in the dirt. Dunlop claims the 60/40 rear tire is good for 8,000 miles, about double the longevity of many competitors. The tread design has deep, widely spaced grooves cut into the tire’s profile to deliver sure-footed road carving with excellent water shedding. The tread blocks reach well around the sidewall, increasing puncture resistance and traction while riding off-road.

MSRP: $122.00 – $245.00

Continental Twinduro TKC80

Dedicated off-road adventure riders who aren’t using the AX41s can often be found rolling on Continental’s long-standing TKC80 “Twinnies.” A 40/60 tire like the AX41, the TKC80’s blocky knobs excel off-road while the compound still gives decent grip on pavement. While they don’t typically last as long as the Bridgestones, many riders tell us they prefer their performance in the dirt in terms of grip, braking power, and traction across a wide range of surfaces from loose to hard pack. A long-running favorite of the lighter, more dirt-focused 450cc dual-sport crowd.

MSRP: $178.00 – $331.00

Mitas E-10

Mitas E-10 tires are made for the weight and power of big adventure machines that are loaded for travel. The bias-ply construction is super tough and the chevron tread arrangement maximizes biting edges with big enough gaps between tread blocks to ensure good traction in tricky off-road situations. Suited for tubeless and tubed tires. On pavement, the versatile E-10 instills confidence when cornering in wet conditions with stability and comfort even at highway speeds for large bikes loaded with gear.

MSRP: $79.51 – $243.40

Motion Pro T6 Tire Levers

Sooner or later, you’re going to have to change a tire out on the trail. Motion Pro’s T6 Tire Levers should be in your trail kit at all times. They have a space-saving dual-ended design with a tire spoon on one end and hex wrench on the other for loosening axle nuts. The clever lip design on these tire spoons makes things a little easier and helps get you back to riding. The hex end comes in a variety of sizes so you can select the most useful set for your individual bike.

MSRP: $34.99

BikeMaster Tire And Tube Flat Repair Kit

Cargo space is at a premium on any off-road motorcycle, so making your tool kit as small but as capable as possible is always a good idea. But it’s always worth a couple of extra ounces to carry a good tire repair kit for tube-type and tubeless tires. This BikeMaster kit comes with patches, plugs, and the tools you need to take care of yourself and everyone else on the ride, no matter what type of tires they’re running. CO2 cartridges can give tires the inflation they need to get back to base, and the included tools can extract whatever sharp things caused the flat. All in one small, lightweight carry case. Don’t leave home without it.

MSRP: $42.89

Unit C5010 Emergency Side Stand

Most motorcycles these days do not come with a center stand, especially the smaller dual-sport bikes. That often means laying a bike on its side to extract a back wheel to fix a tire (or some other problem). While on its side, gas can leak out of vent tubes, nuts, and small pieces can drop under the repair area and disappear into the dirt, and it generally takes longer to get going again. For $23, the C5010 emergency side stand from Unit can work as a sort of center stand in concert with your stock side stand. It can expand from about 11 inches tall to almost 18 inches to get that rear wheel off the ground just enough to speed things along. The top is shaped to cradle a frame rail or motor mount without damaging it.

MSRP: $22.95

Battery Tender 800 Amp Jump Pack With Tire Inflator

Once that flat is fixed, it’s still no good without some air in it. Battery Tender is known primarily for its… battery tenders, but they also make the versatile 800 Jump Pack which includes a big battery and a strong air pump. Charge it up before you leave home and if you get a flat, the 800 can get that tire pumped up quickly without having to wire anything up to your bike’s battery. It’s got enough juice to start any motorcycle (and most cars and trucks). Plus, built-in USB powerlets keep your phone, SPOT or Garmin InReach alive if you need to call in the calvary. Best of all, it’s pretty small for all the power and versatility it contains.

MSRP: $134.96

It is important to carry multiple methods of navigation – including good old analog folding maps and a good compass – when you’re exploring. When heading off the beaten path in four wheels or on two, these are our choices from getting to your destination – and safely back home again.

Garmin Montana 700i GPS with inReach

Garmin has been making inReach GPS devices for several years now, allowing off-roaders and overlanders to stay in touch by texting via satellite. And while the inReach Mini is a popular option, the Garmin Montana 700i is a do-it-all off-road option with a long list of features, the latest tech, and familiar smartphone-like operation. As such, it can be mounted on a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, bicycle or in your vehicle using a simple smartphone mount.

It’s built tough, with a durable, water-resistant chassis tested to U.S. military standards. The screen size has been enlarged 50% over the old Montana model and it can also bring you weather reports and even track your furry friends when paired with Astro or Alpha units. The Montana 700i works like a standard handheld GPS, but an inReach subscription plan is required for texting via satellite.

MSRP: $699.99

Garmin Overlander GPS Tablet

Got a big rig? Garmin’s $699 plus-size Overlander GPS is more than a device to show you where you’re going. Based on a tablet PC, it has a wide range of features built-in, not the least of which is the sprawling 6.95-inch touchscreen. There’s 64gb of internal memory for downloading maps, and a micro-SD card slot for adding more memory as needed. It can also work as a backup camera with a Garmin BC-35 wireless backup camera.

And it’s built tough, with an impact resistant outer casing made to military standards. It will also connect to the Garmin PowerSwitch module to give users touch-screen control of lights and other gear. A built-in pitch and roll angle display helps keep your wheels on the ground, and it can also record your track so you can find your way back if conditions decline. It will also pair with Garmin InReach devices for quicker texting via satellite in an emergency.

A strong magnetic mount with power coupling is included, and the large internal battery will run the Overlander for hours on its own.

MSRP: $699.99

Butler Maps – Motorcycle Maps

Butler’s amazing maps are tailored to the needs of motorcyclists, but anyone can appreciate the huge amount of work that goes into them. Butler’s ride crews have ridden tens of thousands of miles to find – and then rate – the best roads and backroads for motorcycle riders, along with POIs and other stops along the way. The back of each map includes enlarged maps of cities, helpful local information, and stops you definitely want to hit along the way.

The maps are available in regions, points of interest, specialty editions (Route 66, etc.) or in a large bundle covering the entire United States, including BDR routes and BDR-X loops. The maps are waterproof, specially laminated, tear-resistant, easily foldable and pack easily into your tank bag, tail bag or jacket pocket. There’s a reason they are more popular than ever.

MSRP: $14.95-$253.00

DeLorme Atlas and Gazetteer Maps

While Butler makes top-spec motorcycle maps, DeLorme Atlas and Gazetteer Maps cast a wider net and support every kind of vehicle. They are super reliable and made of paper, and they don’t need to be charged up. DeLorme offers maps for every U.S. state with detailed information on landmarks, state and national parks, rivers, campgrounds, hunting areas, and pretty much every piece of relevant outdoor information. They’re in full color, as well, making them easier to read and distinguish categories. Available by state and region.

MSRP: $24.95

Suunto MC-2 Compass

Paper (or laminated) maps are only good if you know how to use them. A better combination is to carry a map and an old-fashioned (non-digital) compass. Fast, simple, and accurate, the Suunto MC-2 Compass includes a liquid-filled capsule for stable operation and a declination correction scale to cover all recreational uses. It also has a mirror for off-axis readings and to use as a signal for help. The compass is balanced for the northern hemisphere, so our readers in the southern hemisphere should buy one calibrated for their needs. Buy a compass and learn to use it. It could save your life.

MSRP: $70.00

Garmin Tread XL GPS – Overland Edition

Garmin has a long reputation for making reliable GPS devices for street travel, but the Garmin Tread XL takes that a step further by giving directions off the road. The 10-inch display uses similar software to other Garmin devices for easy-to-use driving directions to get to your destination. But once off the road, it features useful tools to help find campsites, roads, weight and size limits for vehicles, and topographic information. The Tread XL – Overland Edition includes inReach technology, so you always have global satellite communication in the event of an emergency. An app can also load maps from the USGS. And it all comes encased in a tough package that can withstand weather, dust, and shocks. It’s a durable device that can be used just about anywhere.

MSRP: $1499.99

OnX Offroad Smartphone App

If you want to minimize the electronic devices you bring in the outdoors, consider the Offroad App from OnX. The service is updated daily with information on trails, campsites, and road changes to prevent as many surprises as possible on your way to your destination. The app includes information covering 985 million acres of public land, as well as more than 54,000 campsites and 35,000 miles of trails. Better still, you can download maps you need and pre-program your own points of interest for when your smartphone loses signal.

MSRP: 7-day free trial/ $34.99 per year

Gaia GPS Smartphone App

Gaia GPS broke into the space as a useful mapping tool for trails and hiking, but Gaia is also a useful tool for vehicular backcountry travel, with various mapping layers and topographic information built into the app. Users can download maps, create waypoints, and share .gpx files with others in their group. Better still, it works with an Apple CarPlay or Google Auto-compatible vehicle head unit, meaning it’s easier than ever to use before you get on a trail. Recent changes include an improved interface and more device compatibility.

MSRP: Free – $36.00 per year

Route Planning: FunTreks Maps

FunTreks offers custom-designed map books and digital GPS maps that feature off-road trails that have been tested by experts – similar to how Butler Maps creates its maps and guides. Their books differentiate various trails based on difficulty, which are accompanied by detailed photos and turn-by-turn directions to make sure you don’t tackle more than you can handle. Currently, FunTreks guides are available for Arizona, California, Colorado, and Utah. There is a special book dedicated to Moab as well.

MSRP: $34.95– $74.90

Route Planning: Trails Offroad Maps

Part of a successful overland journey is pre-planning while you’re still at home. Trails Offroad makes that task easier by giving you access to maps with tracks color-coded by difficulty backed by an advanced trail rating system. The ratings differentiate trails by difficulty level and include detailed route descriptions plus all the waypoints Trails Offroad has in its database. Users can generate shareable GPX files with waypoints, including obstacles, campsites, and historical points of interest; and advanced search capabilities. Get your planning done quickly – and perhaps discover some new things to see on your next trip!

MSRP: Free or $25.00 annually

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator SOS Device

The small, rugged, and award-winning ZOLEO satellite communicator connects with your smartphone or tablet to offer seamless global 2-way messaging wherever your adventures may take you. With over 200 hrs. of battery life, it provides reliable access to 2-way messaging, check-ins, weather forecasts, location sharing, and SOS alerting everywhere on Earth.

MSRP: $200.00

SPOT X Satellite GPS/SOS Device

Like the larger Garmin inReach devices, the $249 SPOT X is a full-on GPS and communication device that bounces text messages off of satellites anywhere on Earth except the polar regions if you can see the open sky. However, it has a hard keyboard, and the device is toughened for outdoor use, including an IP67 rating for full submersion for up to 90 minutes. It can also link to a smartphone for expanded functionality. The low-res monotone LCD screen is sharp enough for map work but draws very little power, so it will run for up to 10 days on a full charge. There is also a built-in compass. Texting via satellite requires a service plan that starts at $15/month.

MSRP: $249 + Service Plan

SPOT Trace Tracking Device

The SPOT Trace can keep track of you or your belongings when you leave them behind. In intervals of minutes or hours, the Trace sends updates to your phone using GPS signals to give a status update on movement with real-time coordinates. It’s a light 3.1 ounces and works in extreme temperatures – as well as being submersible for up to 90 seconds. Service plans run between $10 and $13 per month, so it’s a reasonable fee for making sure your expensive property stays where it’s supposed to be.

MSRP: $129.95 + service plan

Fortunately, decades of adventure riding experience has given product makers time to innovate, refine and test everything from tents to tools to cooking gear. These are some of the best bits we’ve found that should find their way into your riding kit.

Givi Outback Case And Luggage Rack Kit

Hard bags or soft? Each has pros and cons, so selecting moto luggage is mainly a matter of preference., but you’re going to need something to carry your gear. Be sure to take into consideration what sort of riding you’ll be doing, load limits, ease of use and installation requirements when shopping for a luggage system for your bike.

Many long-distance riders like the impact resistance and look of aluminum cases (often called “panniers”), and the Givi Outback Case And Luggage Rack Kit is built for rugged travel. The top case and panniers all lock using the same key to keep things simple. This complete kit includes everything you need to mount the panniers and top case on your adventure bike.

MSRP: $489.00 – 1,036.00 depending on size, number of cases, mounting requirements, and more.

Givi GRT720 Canyon 25-Liter Soft Luggage

Soft luggage offers literal flexibility that hard panniers don’t. You can often squeeze in a bit more gear since they can expand, or they can be made “smaller” with compression straps if you’re just heading out for a quick weekend jaunt. Plus, if your bike tips over, they can act as a sort of cushion (so keep breakable bits like cameras and such in a top bag or backpack). Plus, they are usually easier to grab and go once your bike is parked and often weigh less than hard cases.

The GRT720 Canyon Side Bags from Givi are designed to stand up to the abuse of off-road riding. They are Monokey compatible and feature side loops to attach additional storage pouches and other gear. Constructed from rugged 1200/1680D textile deniers, they are UV-treated to resist fading and include a flexible waterproof roll top closure system, load compression straps, and waterproof inner dry bags. Built-in side plates help them keep their form and can mount to generic rack mounts. Carry handles make transporting them easier off the bike. Larger and smaller sizes are also available.

MSRP: $659.99

Sea To Summit Telos TR2 Plus 2-Person 3-Season Tent

Almost nothing is more important than proper shelter when motorcycle camping. Good sleep (and protection from various critters) is key to waking up refreshed and ready to ride the next day. The Sea To Summit Telos TR2 tent is a two-person, three-season tent that sets up quickly, can be used staked or freestanding, and will withstand wind, rain, sun, and even light snow while keeping you dry and secure. Zip the top shut to seal in some heat on those cold nights, and when it’s time to get going, the tent packs down into a strappable 20 by 5-inch bundle that weighs under four pounds.

MSRP: $509.00

Stockton Roadside Tool Kit

Despite the high level of refinement and reliability of today’s adventure motorcycles, things still come loose, need adjusting or require outright repair. The Stockton Roadside Tool Kit includes a wide selection of commonly needed tools and bits to help get you back on the road. From zip-ties to fuel lines, fuses, and bits for those oddball Torx fasteners, this “roadside” kit works great out on the dusty trail as well. The kit includes:

• Combination Wrenches
• Allen Set Ball End
• 3/8″ Drive Sockets
• Torx Wrench Set
• Locking Pliers
• 6″ Adjustable Wrench
• 3/8″ Drive Ratchet Wrench
• 3/8″ Drive Socket Extension 3″, 6″
• 3/8″ Drive Spark Plug Socket (Thin Wall) 16mm, 18mm, 21mm
• Pliers
• Needle Nose Pliers
• Mechanics Safety Wire
• Electrical Wire
• Tire Gauge
• Electrical Tape
• Blade Fuse 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30amp
• Mini Blade Fuse 3, 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 20amp
• Cable Ties
• Fuel Hose
• Tool roll and towel

MSRP: $49.95

CruzTools Roadtech Brand-Specific Tool Sets

Different motorcycle brands often require specific or special tools for some parts or adjustment and CruzTools has thankfully put together several sets tailored for most major adventure bike makers, such as this set for BMW motorcycles. A tool kit that’s missing a key tool for your specific bike is next to useless, so consider stepping up to a tailored tool kit to cover pretty much any eventuality.

MSRP: $99 to $129

Storm 450 Multi-Mode Headlamp

A headlamp is essential for after-dark camp setup, finding your way to the potty in the middle of the night, and generally being able to make repairs or do things hands-free. In a pinch, it can even work as a headlight. The Storm 450 is small and tough but highly versatile. It can run for hours on good ‘ol AAA batteries or a rechargeable lithium pack. Despite the small size, it packs three LEDs including a 450-lumen focused beam, a broad soft light and a night-vision preserving red LED.

MSRP: $59.95

HydraPak Seeker Collapsible Water Containers

Staying hydrated while riding is critically important. Off-road riding is a workout, and since most riders wear heavy protective riding gear, the level of exertion is high. Mix in a lot of heat and humidity, and things can get pretty sweaty. Yet, water takes up a lot of room on a motorcycle, and it’s heavy. And beyond quenching thirst, it’s also needed for cooking and sanitary concerns, and there’s no guarantee there’s going to be any nearby at the end of the day, so you’ll need to carry a fair bit of it.

Hydrapak’s Seeker Collapsible water containers are built tough, and since they’re flexible, they can tucked into panniers or packs more easily than rigid containers. Available in multiple sizes, we like the four-liter models for their size and capacity. A top-mounted handle makes pouring and carrying easier, and if you are stuck with a suspect water source, they will work with Katadyn BeFree filters. The containers are BPA and PVC-free and can also be used as ice packs (when frozen) or hot water containers.

MSRP: $31.00

BioLite CampStove 2+ Complete Cook Kit

Food really does taste better when you’re out on the trail – as long as you have something better than a smoky campfire and a stick for cooking. BioLite’s innovative Campstove 2 Plus kit is wonderfully versatile. The heart of the system is their patented wood-burning CampStove 2+, which uses cyclonic airflow for a clean, hot fire to warm you – and some weird science to convert some of the heat energy to electricity to charge your tech via USB.

The kit also includes the KettlePot for cooking and boiling water, a small fold-flat portable grill, and even a vitally important coffee press. A small LED flex light plugs into the CampStove battery for some illumination while you cook. The CampStove and other bits pack into the KettlePot for transport, and again, the CampStove can run on small wood chips and burns very clean.

MSRP: $249.95

Alpineaire Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken

It’s one thing to be able to cook on site, quite another to rustle up some decent grub out in the middle of nowhere. And again, with space at a premium, it’s not like you can hit Costco on the way out of town. Dehydrated food has come a very long way over the years, and Alpineaire’s Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken is a protein-packed delight that just needs some water and a container (see item above) to manifest a real-deal meal from a slim, 6-ounce package – which means you can bring quite a few on your ride. Just remember to bring some salt and pepper in your saddlebags.

MSRP: $14.95

Battery Tender Jump Starter And Power Bank

We love how many things this small chunk of battery power can do. It can jumpstart your bike (or a car!) over and over again if need be, charge your phone wirelessly, charge your other tech via USB-C, and light up the vicinity with two built-in LED lights. It is spark-proof and equipped with reverse polarity protection and includes three fast-charging ports. Yet it’s small, lightweight and durable. Don’t leave home without it.

MSRP: 89.96

Big Agnes Lost Ranger 3-In-1 Sleeping Bag

Getting good sleep on your ride is key to better enjoyment, safer riding and just personal well-being. There are countless dirt-cheap sleeping bags out there that will have you waking up with your teeth chattering in the middle of the night. Do yourself a favor and invest in a high-quality sleep system like the Big Agnes Lost Ranger 3N1 15 Sleeping Bag.

Available in regular and tall sizes, the Lost Ranger is an innovative “two bag” system that works well in summer or winter, and is rated down to 15 degrees. It’s a roomy and comfortable sleeping bag that is designed for more movement at night, resists bunching up, and can strap onto a sleeping pad (not included) so you don’t end up on the hard ground at 2 a.m. Packed up, it’s 8 x 17.5 inches very light weight.

MSRP: $399.99

Therm-a-Rest Corus HD Sleeping ‘Quilt’

Don’t skimp and cheap out on your sleeping bag. Investing in a purpose-made camping sleeping bag means more warmth, improved comfort and most importantly, better sleep. But in the warmer months, leave the sleeping bag at home and try the Therm-a-Rest Corus HD Quilt. It eliminates the bottom of a sleeping bag to save space, and while it is not as warm as a regular sleeping bag, it is rated down to 32 degrees, so it’s perfect for summertime sleeping. The quilt straps to your sleeping pad to stay in place and provides the best of both worlds for sleep in warm summer air or to compliment a light-duty sleeping bag. Plus, it packs down into a 10-inch stuff sack for easy storage in a pannier or tail bag.

MSRP: $269.95 – $289.95

Thermarest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad

Inflatable sleeping pads are pure luxury after a long day of riding – as long as they stay inflated. When they deflate during the night, they are a hassle to re-inflate and interrupt your precious sleep. For the ultimate in insulation and comfort, there’s the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite. The innovative Winglock valve is as easy to use as a water bottle cap and seals tight but also allows for rapid deflation. When it’s time to ride, the XLite packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle.

MSRP: $179.95 – $229.95

At the top of this post are fridges we’ve reviewed hands-on in the order in which they’ve been tested. Beneath that are fridges we like but haven’t officially tested in the “Honorable Mentions” category.

Our Top Picks

ARB — ZERO 47-Quart Fridge

In our review of the ARB ZERO 47-quart fridge, we said the “goldilocks ratio of great performance delivered by an attractive product is the ultimate goal, and that’s exactly how we would describe the ARB Zero 47QT.” It does a great job of keeping your food organized and cold. And, when you open the tailgate of your rig, you’ll take a moment to appreciate how cool this fridge looks, too.”

The ZERO-47 can also work as a freezer and get as cold as -7° F. Dual 12-volt connections mean it can be stored in any orientation, and the lid closes tight with a satisfying click of the heavy-duty latch. It will also run on a 120-volt wall current, and a USB port is also included for charging up devices. The non-slip top can double as a workspace, seat, or food prep spot. And while it is just a fancy icebox for keeping your grub cold, it’s one of the better industrial designs we’ve seen so far.

MSRP: $1,136.00

Dometic — CFX3 45 46-Liter Fridge

Dometic’s CFX3 45, despite its name, is actually a 46-liter fridge. And over months of testing during various trips, it’s continued to excel in terms of performance and durability. Its stand-out features include a compact size compared to its large interior volume, an awesome user interface and features, and excellent build quality, just to name a few. Though Dometic fridges aren’t the most affordable options on the market, like most good overland equipment, they fall into the ‘buy once, cry once’ category and deserve to be atop every overlander’s shopping list. Read our full review here.

National Luna — Legacy 50L Dual-Control

National Luna’s Legacy line of fridges/freezers has earned its reputation as a durable, efficient, top-tier choice for an overlanding fridge. However, it lacks some of the new connectivity found on its competitors. Aside from the quibbles about that control panel, there is very little not to like about the unit. (Note: the recently released “Smart QC” update provides the missing connectivity options and updates the control panel). It’s extremely efficient, it’s built like a tank, it’s been proven in over 30 years of use around the world, and frankly, I find it to be the best-looking fridge on the market (some of my colleagues disagree). Read our full review here.

Dometic — CFX3 55IM

The Dometic CFX3 55IM is a stylishly designed and efficient 12-volt fridge with plenty of capacity for a weekend trip backed up by rockstar customer service. While it is only a single-zone, that IM stands for “Ice Maker,” which is my only real complaint about the fridge. It doesn’t take up much space, but when you’re out in the backcountry, every inch for food storage is useful. There are very few times that I need ice. However, I can attest that it does indeed make very small ice cubes — and you can use them in a gin and tonic. Read our full review here.

BougeRV Rocky 41QT Dual Zone 12V Portable Fridge

There’s a lot to like about the BougeRV 41QT 12-Volt Dual-Zone Portable Fridge, from the chiseled good looks to the split fridge/freezer compartments. But the best aspect of the 41QT is its versatility. Not only can it be powered by a 12-volt connection in your rig, camper, or trailer, but it will also run off an optional modular battery pack that attaches for fully portable operation, or solar panels, 24-volt sources, and 120-volt wall current back home.

In addition, three power level settings help extend the run time when on battery power, and it can work as a fridge, freezer, or both at the same time. The lid can open from either side to accommodate tight spaces, and the interior includes LED lights for quickly (and discreetly) finding a snack after hours. The carry handles fold flush to the sides, and there’s even a bottle opener, which every cooler should have. It is also available in three larger sizes. Be on the lookout for our full review of this model soon.

Honorable Mentions

Gold Zero Alta 50 12-Volt Fridge

Goal Zero is best known for its big Yeti power banks and other off-grid power solutions, but the company also offers portable powered fridges that will run for many hours off those power banks, of course. The $799 Alta 50 would be our choice, and it has a 53-liter capacity, which can be better visualized as about 80 cans of your favorite beverage.

The Alta 50 can freeze things down to -4° F, and it also comes with an insulated cover that increases efficiency, along with adding some external pockets for cords, snacks, or other small items. The metal exterior and reinforced corners are ready for the rigors or travel, and folding handles make it easier to move around at the campsite. You can also keep tabs on temperature and more through the Goal Zero app. You could conceivably keep it running on-site for a couple of weeks or more when powered by a battery pack like the Yeti 4000. And since you don’t need to make room for ice, you can really pack in the provisions for that long getaway.

Anker Everfrost 50-Liter Battery-Powered Cooler

Plugging your portable cooler into a 12-volt powerlet or battery pack that can muster 120 Volts A/C is fine and all, but nothing beats the convenience of a cooler that can do that plus has a built-in battery, allowing it to wander away from the campsite to the lake, beach or river for the day – or longer. Anker, better known as a maker of computer peripherals, large battery banks, and portable phone chargers, has channeled their battery expertise into the Everfrost 50, a tidy, wheeled, self-contained, battery-powered portable fridge that can also be plugged into just about anything for power.

The modular, quick-swap battery will run the Everfrost 50 at 39°F for up to 27 hours, according to Anker. In or out of the fridge, the battery also offers USB power points, and it can be directly charged to 100% in under 4 hours from a 100-watt solar array on a sunny day. Dual zones in the 53-liter box allow for keeping some items frozen while others are kept cool. Large wheels make rolling it around much easier, and the folding carry handle can also work as a small prep table. A top-mounted info panel lets you keep tabs on the temperature and battery at a glance or keep tabs on it from a distance via the Anker app.

Dometic CCF-T Ford F-150/Super Duty/Expedition Center Console Refrigerator

Sure, you’ve got that fridge or cooler in your camper, trailer, or pickup bed, but retrieving a cold beverage while driving down the highway or navigating off-road means stopping, maybe unpacking some gear to get to the fridge, digging through it to find your drink, then repacking and getting underway again. It is a hassle, to be sure, but it can be avoided by installing Dometic’s CCF-T fridge between the front seats of your Ford F-150, Super Duty, or Expedition.

The F-150-spec mini-fridge will hold eight 12-ounce cans or six 17-ounce bottles of your favorite road soda, while the Super Duty and Expedition version is a half-liter larger. Once installed, it looks like an OEM fitment. It’s built to essentially drop right into the center console with a minimum of hassle, so there’s no drilling, cutting, or modifying your truck required, but you may need a small install kit from Dometic. Then, just hook it up to the truck’s 12-volt power and push the power button when you head out on your trip. There are even a pair of USB powerpoints on the front for charging phones and such. The fridge box itself is insulated like a cooler, so items will stay cold for hours even when the power is off. It is a luxury? Sure, but if you spend a lot of time behind the wheel, it’s easy to see it as a necessity.

Kakadu 45-Liter Transit Fridge

Not everyone can justify four digits for a 12-volt fridge, especially if it’s not going to see a ton of use throughout the year. Just need something simple and affordable for those annual planned outings? Check out the Kakadu Transit, a 45-liter 12-Volt DC or 120/240-Volt AC fridge that will keeps your drinks or food cold – but not frozen.

The tough polypropylene chassis shrugs off impacts and should last for many years of travel and storage. Kakadu is an Aussie brand, but South Korean mega-company LG makes the compressor. There are LED lights inside for discreet night-time snack attacks. An exterior display and a couple of buttons make setup and adjustments a snap. The Transit is not fancy, but 45 liters is a lot of cooled storage capacity for the price, and it can do double duty as a party fridge, poolside cooler, or deck drink cache while plugged into the wall current.

ARB — 63 Quart Elements Portable Fridge/Freezer

The ARB Element 63-quart fridge is a continued stand out in the market. Not only is weather rated, but it also features an infinite-position gas strut. That means the lid stays where you put it no matter the angle, and that translates to no smashed heads or hands when the lid unexpectedly drops. Plus, it’s made of 304-grade stainless steel, so you can be sure this fridge can take a beating for years to come. More stand-out features include inset handles and low-profile latches so your other gear won’t get snagged on it. Plus, the Element features an electronic lock system so that it can stand up to sticky fingers as well as it stands up to dust and rain.

MSRP: $1,649.00

Dometic — CFX3 25

The CFX 25 is Dometic’s smallest electric portable fridge. It is designed for your toughest adventures. This 12-volt cooler is perfect for smaller overland vehicles — think compact trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. The CFX3 is capable of maintaining temperatures as low as -7 degrees Fahrenheit while using less power than a 60-watt light bulb. The high-performing compressor inside the CXF3 25 was built for backroads. That means it is mounted on springs to isolate noise and reduce vibration. Powered by AC (110-240), DC (12 / 24 volt), or solar power, the CFX3 25-car cooler connects to a phone app, allowing easy temperature monitoring and control. It weighs 28 pounds and measures 22.4″ long, 13.46″ wide, and 16.54″ tall.

MSRP: $799.00

DOMETIC — CFX3 100

We hope you like beer and are plenty thirsty. Because this behemoth of a fridge can hold a whopping 153 beer cans. And the whole thing only weighs 65.27 pounds, which is shocking considering that it has a 99-liter interior capacity. What’s more, it can manage temperatures between 50 and -7 degrees Fahrenheit. And you can operate it through Bluetooth or over Wi-Fi. So you are never out of ways to check to make sure your beloved beer is as cool as cool can be. Really, though, if you’re bringing 153 beers on an overlanding journey, no matter how long the duration, you ought to consider seeking help. Just sayin’.

MSRP: $1,349.99

Camp kit bits must also combine small size, versatility, and reliable performance to make it on our gear list. We especially like items that work well for smaller vehicles or adventure motorcycles. Here are some of our favorite products that reliably take a getaway from good to great.

Sea To Summit Air Chair

The Sea To Summit Air Chair combines the convenience of a simple strap-supported chair with the comfort of your sleeping pad. Vióla: The comfiest compact inflatable chair you can imagine. Simple and effective.

MSRP: $59.95

Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill

Do you Takibi? We love Snow Peak’s cool folding Takibi fire pits. Now, they’ve taken it a step further with a full-on folding cooking and grilling setup – and it still all folds flat into a canvas carry bag for easy transport. This portable fire pit keeps ash to a minimum, all but eliminates burn scars, and gives you everything you need to cook delicious meals over your campfire.

MSRP: $252.95

GCI Outdoor Master Cook Station

If you’re planning longer and longer excursions, be sure to pack everything, including the kitchen sink – and the kitchen. The GCI Master Cook Station is a fold-up kitchen that includes a sink with a drain, multiple shelves, a lantern hook, and a spacious food prep area that can hold a large dual-burner stove. It packs down flat for easy transport and storage. Now you’re cooking!

MSRP: $160.00

REI Co-op Pack-Away Bins

REI’s Pack-Away bins are the overlander’s storage and organizing friend. Available in multiple sizes, the Pack-Away bins are soft-sided, so you can wedge them into a trunk or pickup bed with ease. They hold a lot of gear, from clothes to whole camp kits. You can further expand your organization with the Pack-Away Cubes that fit inside perfectly. Lots of handles make them easy to carry when full, and they roll up when not in use.

MSRP: Varies with size

Hi-Lift Off-Road Winch Kit

Did you know you can use your Hi-Lift Jack as a winch? With Hi-Lift’s Off-Road Kit, all the bits you need to extract your rig from trouble without a traditional winch are in the bag, including chains, straps, pins, hooks – even gloves. It may take a bit longer than a powered winch, but at least you won’t need to call for rescue.

MSRP: $120.70

BruTrek Basecamp French Press

For many campers, the day doesn’t start until the coffee is made. Most French presses can break easily under the rigors of camping and don’t keep the coffee hot for long. BruTrek’s Basecamp French Press is double insulated, super tough, and highly reliable. Done brewing? Screw on the lid and take the leftover java with you – you know you’re going to need it.

BioLite Alpenglow 500 Lantern

There are as many camping lanterns out there as there are stars in the sky, but BioLite’s Alpenglow 500 Lantern mixes in a fair bit of fun. Just shake it for multiple colored light modes, candle mode, and even a fireworks mode! The light is nicely flat and diffused and highly adjustable for color, intensity, and color pattern changes. A hook on the bottom makes it easy to hang in a tent, kitchen pole, or on a tree branch. Phone dying? Plug it into the lantern for a fresh charge.

MSRP: $79.95

ENO Jungle Rest Hammock

Nothing ruins a hammock siesta like some flying forest critter crawling on you. Rest in bug-free comfort with the ENO Jungle Rest hammock from REI. The built-in bug screen keeps the stinging multitudes out while letting air and light in. Plus, it packs up in seconds. Snooze in peace!

MSRP: $109.95

But the road resumes just a few dozen tantalizing yards away, so it’s time to break out the traction or “recovery” boards, those last-ditch planks that conquer slick surfaces when all else fails. Resorting to traction/recovery boards means some hard work lies ahead, including a lot of shoveling, positioning the boards repeatedly, and very slow progress, but it’s progress nonetheless. No one said overlanding was going to be easy, but the right gear can make a big difference, and that even applies to the lowly traction board.

Prices range from below $100 to upwards of $500 per pair. Which one is right for you depends on your budget, how often you’ll use them, features, and the manufacturer’s warranty. Avoid going the cheap route: flimsier boards can shatter under the weight of your rig, and teeth can fall off or wear down too quickly, rendering them useless for the most part. Some will weaken over time as they are exposed to UV light in sunlight. Some brands offer a no-questions-asked replacement policy which can prove valuable. Factor all of these variables into your purchasing decision. We are of the opinion that one should “buy once, cry once.” If you pay for a better quality product, you usually don’t have to replace faulty products in the future – or are left stranded if it fails in the field.

Our list consists of boards we’ve tested personally and reviewed in the field. Beneath that are ones we may not have necessarily tested but rather just approve of.

Our Favorite(s)

MAXTRAX — MKII

MAXTRAX recovery boards might be expensive. But they are the cheapest, easiest way to get your rig unstuck. The trick to using them, though, is to mount them in an easily accessible spot. That way, you don’t have to dig for them when you’re in a pinch. Also, though it may be tempting to match the color of your rig, buy the orange ones; you don’t want to lose a $330 pair of MAXTRAX in the mud. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $330 per pair

Honorable Mentions

ARB 4×4 Accessories — TRED Pro Traction Boards

TRED Pro is a highly-engineered all-in-one off-road vehicle recovery device designed to get your four-wheel drive out of trouble when traction is lost in sand, mud, or snow. TRED Pro is engineered, manufactured, and tested on some of the toughest terrain on the planet in Australia. A set of TRED Pro will allow you to explore with confidence without letting traction issues disrupt your journey.

MSRP $299.00 per pair

Rough Country — Traction Boards

Distinguishing themselves from the rest of the field, the Rough Country boards come with their own handy black tote bag, which is nice. They measure 45 inches long by 13 inches wide. They’re made from high-density material with a deep studded design for increased traction. The ends of the boards are ramped for easy entry. They’re not the snazziest looking traction boards, nor are they backed by a lifetime warranty. But they are the cheapest. So there’s that.

MSRP: $129.95 per pair

Rugged Ridge — Traction Recovery Kit

If you pick the Rugged Ridge traction boards, they come with a little shovel, so you don’t have to use the backs of the boards to shovel snow, mud, or sand from under your rig.

That’s not the only way in which the Rugged boards are different than the rest. They’re rated for use on vehicles up to 20,000 pounds — more than double that of the ARB TREDs. Plus, they’re backed by a five-year limited warranty. Again, it’s not clear what use would violate the warranty. So, recover carefully.

MSRP: $167.99

Smittybilt — All Element Ramps Traction Aids

Lastly, we have the Smittybilt and their straightforward named ‘all element ramps traction aids.’ It’s not branding that rolls off the tongue. But for the mid-level pricing, you may be willing to look past the weird name to their bona fides.

Each Smittybilt ramp can support up to 7,700 pounds. They’re made from heavy-duty nylon-reinforced plastic construction. Carrying handles and sloped entry make for easy carrying and extraction. Like virtually all the others, they’re stackable. And they come with a nylon carrying bag. No word on the warranty, though, so tread lightly.

MSRP: $172.99 per pair

While there are tons of options on the market, we’ve selected some of our favorite awnings and awning accessories for a variety of rigs from brands we trust. The last thing you want is for your awning to fail during a wind storm or downpour. While it’s definitely inconvenient, it can also be a danger to you and your rig when metal parts are flailing in the wind. 

Our Favorite(s)

23Zero — Peregrine 270 Awning

Photo by Stephen Nielson

Photo by Stephen Nielson

Photo by Stephen Nielson

Photo by Stephen Nielson

If you’re looking to add a huge amount of shade and weather protection, then you should definitely take a look at the Peregrine 270 from 23Zero. This awning offers an impressive 270 sq. ft. of coverage and measures nearly 20 feet from end to end. Part of this area is added by the forward-facing front rafter that covers the front and rear doors.

Even spanning such a huge area, the Peregrine 270 remains rigid and isn’t prone to swaying in the wind. When the winds pick up, or the rain is really coming down, the optional legs and guylines keep the awning firmly planted. It features 23Zero’s Light Suppression Technology to reduce temperatures underneath the awning by up to 20%. This awning is a great option for larger rigs, especially if you’re looking to stay out of the sun when in the backcountry. While expansive, it only weighs 51 lbs. so you don’t have to worry about it penalizing your payload. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $999.00

Rhino-Rack — Batwing Compact 270-Degree

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

Photo by Rick Stowe

We recently tested the Batwing Compact 270-Degree awning and found it to be a perfect match for smaller SUVs and mid-sized trucks. It’s an especially great fit on mid-sized trucks with beds in the six-foot range. It provides ample coverage in a quick-set-up and easy-to-use package.

The installation was incredibly simple and only took a few minutes. We found ourselves using it at every chance we had on the trail, even if it was only for a quick lunch stop. The legs allow you to dial in the pitch so that you can manage run-off during heavy rain or adjust the shade as needed. Wind doesn’t present an issue with clever pole ends that allow two tent stakes to be threaded through them at perpendicular angles. This, plus the sturdy guylines, provides solid anchor points that protect the awning from damage. However, if the hub is damaged, the hinge components are designed to be easily replaced, and spare parts are included. Weighing in at only 39.5 lbs. and providing 68.9 sq. ft., it offers the best of both worlds in terms of shelter and vehicle payload. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $766.00

Honorable Mentions

Alu Cab — 270-Degree Shadow Awning

The Shadow Awning from Alu Cab is a bit of a modern classic. They’ve been around a few years, and based on the number of rigs we see these on and from personal experience, they stand up to life on the trail. Featuring stout aluminum swing arms, the Shadow Awning is capable of free-standing deployment, so you won’t be stuck setting up polls and guylines while trying to stay dry. At the other end of the spectrum, the Shadow Awning frame is covered in a special reflective rip-stop material, so when the sun is beating down, you can count on it being especially cool. 

The Shadow is 8.5 feet long when closed, so it’s a good fit for full-sized trucks and over-cab campers. However, it might be a bit tough to fit it to smaller SUVs with a short roofline. Plus, it weighs 52 lbs. so be conscious of how that impacts your payload. While this might seem a bit big, it provides 107 square feet of coverage, so if you have the roof space and capability, you’ll have shade and weather protection to match. Depending on what you plan to mount the awning to, you’ll need to check out available mounts that work with a variety of roof racks, tents, and campers. 

MSRP: $1,575.00

ARB — Awning with Lights

This is the style of awning that was most popular just a few short years ago, and there’s nothing wrong with the roll-and-store style. With a bit of practice and/or help, they’re quick to deploy. Plus, the soft storage bag, lightweight aluminum frame, and durable PU-coated poly/cotton rip-stop provide plenty of protection in a small package. 

This option from ARB goes the extra mile and adds LED lights underneath, so that is one less thing you have to worry about. The extendable legs work up to 6.9 ft., so there’s no worry of ducking under it for cover. Plus, they’re available in three lengths to fit just about any rig. 

The 6.5 ft. long model is the middle option and weighs 25 lbs. This series of awnings includes mounting hardware, guylines, and tent stakes. ARB also produces a number of accessories for this series, including mesh rooms, walls, and floors to expand your on-trail shelter capabilities. 

MSRP: $402.00

ARB — Aluminum Awning

Another interesting option from ARB is the Aluminum Awning that brings the simple setup and design as our last suggestion but wrapped up in a durable aluminum case. This avoids the issue of UV degradation without taking away from the lightweight, compact, and modular nature of the awning. Plus, it just looks classy, so if you’re kitting out a classic rig, this would be an excellent option. 

The three quick-release bungies replace the zipper of the soft case and keep the awning protected from the elements when not in use. The aluminum poles are color matched to the black case, making this accessory as fashionable as it is functional. The extended awning is 8.2 x 8.2 feet and features a maximum mounting height of 6.9 ft. Even with the addition of the hard case, the whole package comes in at 35.2 lbs. 

MSRP: $686.00

Rhino-Rack — Dome 1300 Awning

The domed awnings might not be as popular as other styles of awnings, but they’re not without pros. For starters, if your rig’s roof height isn’t quite high enough, the dome of a domed awning adds extra headroom. It’s also rather rigid, so when you guy out the Dome 1300, you won’t have to be too concerned about wind flap. 

Coming in at 18.6 lbs and offering 68 sp. ft. of overhead coverage, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better weight-to-shade ratio. Mounting the Dome 1300 isn’t limited to the sides of a rig. It also works at the rear, so you can cover your slide-out kitchens and more. While this type of awning isn’t necessarily common, it offers some great features at an approachable price point. 

MSRP: $333.00

Rhino-Rack — Dome 1300 Side Wall

The Dome 1300 can be further enhanced with the addition of multiple sidewalls. Requiring only a couple of minutes to install, you can provide shade when the sun is low late in the day, or you can guard your camp from persistent winds. The 6.5×6.5 ft. piece can be pitched straight or at an angle to dial in your shade and weather protection. An added bonus is it’s just as easy to remove as it is to install. So you can enjoy the breeze and the shade on those hot summer days. 

MSRP: $176.00

Rhino-Rack — Batwing Tapered Zip Extension

One of the great things about the Batwing series of awnings is the impressive line of accessories that allow you to dial in your shelter system to suit your needs. In particular, this Tapered Zip Extension with a door can turn your awning into a full-blown ground tent that still allows covered access to the back of your rig. It’s constructed of the same tough mold-resistant rip-stop material. You can add up to four extension walls to a Batwing awning for a fully enclosed shelter.

MSRP: $266.00

Roofnest — Litewing Awning

Let’s round out our picks for the best awnings with another great 270-degree awning from Roofnest. The Litewing is relatively new on the market, but we got to check one out early, and needless to say, we’re impressed. 

The Litewing is available in both driver and passenger-side orientations, so you don’t have to worry about switching up your current tent and roof rack configuration when installing the Litewing. The Litewing measures 6.5 ft. long and weighs in at a relatively svelte 30 lbs. thanks in part to its lightweight carbon-fiber spines. Add in integrated LED lighting and a 90-second setup time, and you have 100 sq. ft. of coverage, and you have an awning that doesn’t sacrifice features for weight savings. The XL version is 8.2 ft. long, and it provides 100 sq. ft. of shelter, and impressively only weighs 10 lbs. more than the regular model. 

MSRP: $1,295.00

However, that purpose isn’t what most people assume it is. Fair warning: I am likely about to blow some minds.

You should not use a Hi-Lift-style jack for lifting your rig on the trail for repairs — be it a tire change or otherwise. They’re simply not stable enough for that – even with a plastic or metal base plate beneath it. Hi-Lift-style jacks can tip over incredibly easily. And when a 6,000-pound truck comes crashing down, and the 45-pound jack goes flying, you risk damaging the vehicle and injuring — or worse yet killing someone.

Simply put: These types of jacks were designed for recovery, not repairs.

For example, you could lift your vehicle up, to get a tire out of a hole so that you can put a traction board beneath it.

Another use is utilizing the jack as a winch, slowly extracting your vehicle from a spot that you can’t winch yourself forward from. These are two recommended uses for Hi-Lift-style jacks.

If you want to safely lift your vehicle’s axle or wheel for a repair, the safest and best option is to use a bottle jack. Not just any bottle jack will do, though. You want one that is rated for a heavy 4×4 and has extensions that can safely lift a tall 4×4 off the ground. And, no, stacking logs you find trailside underneath your $15 Harbor Freight bottle jack is not a safe solution.

With that preamble out of the way, let’s look at some of the best overlanding jacks on the market.

ARB — Hydraulic Long-Travel Recovery Jack

ARB entered the jack game a few years ago with its distinctive hydraulic jack. It uses an air bladder and oil reservoir that it fills and pressurizes as you pump to lift the vehicle. It’s kind of like a shock absorber, but your pumping increases its strength.

Regardless of the engineering magic that goes into the jack, it can smoothly jack your vehicle up in half-inch increments. And it can be lowered easily, swiftly, and safely, too.

It can lift between 28 and 38 inches — enough for even the tallest overland rigs. It compresses down to 35 inches and can extend up to 58 inches. And it can hold 4,409 pounds — again enough for even very hefty 4x4s.

Like other jacks, we don’t recommend this jack be used for lifting your rig for repairs, just for recovery.

MSRP: $899.900

King Shock Screw Jack

This actuation screw has the same 3/4-inch hex as your lug nuts for quick tire changes. The cadmium plated steel body is sealed from the elements. The knurled jacking pin adjusts up or down to math the ride height of your vehicle. And billet aircraft quality aluminum components ensure it’s both strong and light weight. Finally, it boasts 14 inches of travel. Plus, it is made in the USA, which you can be proud of.

MSRP: $1,021.25

Hi-Lift — 48-inch All-Cast Jack

Here we come to the name in off-road jacks: Hi-Lift. They’re great for what they’re intended for: recovery. You can use it as a lift, a winch, or even as a clamp. But please don’t climb under your rig with one of these jacks holding it up. The 48-incher is a good all-round size. It can lift 7,000 pounds. Be sure to read the instructions before using it.

Also ensure you keep this thing lubricated, too. I like to douse mine in penetrating oil before I use it. That helps ensure it moves smoothly. I once got one jammed up with my Gladiator’s wheel in the air because it wasn’t properly lubricated. Getting the rig down was quite the ordeal and not one I’d like to replicate. So, learn from my mistakes and treat these things as directed.

MSRP: $107.64

HI-LIFT — 48-inch X-TREME JACK

For those who need a bit more power than the standard 48-incher can muster, there’s the X-TREME version. While it can lift 7,000 pounds like its non-X-TREME stablemate, this one can also winch, clamp, and spread 5,000 pounds. This is because all the bits are thicker and more heavy duty. So, if you need the most, get the X-TREME.

They usually also include some additional comfort items not typically found with MX or dirt biking helmets, including a face shield for riding in the rain and wind and an integrated drop-down sun visor. Some even have built-in Bluetooth systems for music and phone operation while riding. Most models can be outfitted with add-on Bluetooth systems from Sena, Cardo, and others. Some may include “MIPS” (or “Mips”) technology which helps reduce the chance of neck injury if the helmet rotates during a crash. Comfort and safety are key while riding on the road – and off of it.

Pro Tip

If a helmet becomes uncomfortable during an initial ride, return it immediately in the original packaging so it can be resold. For the best chance of a good fit, especially when ordering online, measure your head above your eyebrows and ears to the back of your skull for a more exact size. While helmets can range from XS (Extra Small) to XXXL (really big!), one company’s Medium may be another company’s Large. With more people buying online, more helmet makers are now listing more exact measured size ranges. Knowing the size of your head can better narrow down the correct size to order and avoid return hassles.

No matter which helmet you choose, all of the helmets on our list meet U.S. Department of Transportation and European Union (ECE) safety standards.

Our Favorite(s)

Bell — MX-9 Adventure Mips Dash Helmet 

This is the latest version of Bell’s very popular, very affordable, and highly-rated MX-9 Adventure helmet, a perennial rider favorite. For 2023, Bell has added the Mips safety technology layer. The helmet won’t feel any different to you, but in a crash, the Mips tech can literally save your neck. Plus, it has a built-in drop-down sun visor, removable, washable padding, and space for a comms system. You can even use goggles with it. The huge price increase for the Mips protection? Yeah, it’s $10 more. Worth it. Read our full review here.

MSRP: $229.00

Honorable Mentions

AGV — AX-9 Carbon Helmet 

AGV is known for their great fit when it comes to helmets, and after a decade of selling the popular AX-8, the AX-9 debuted in 2018. Featuring a carbon-aramid-fiberglass composite shell, it combines toughness with low weight. The face shield is Pinlock compatible, and the adjustable top visor features better flow-through for freeway speed riding. It looks tough in carbon weave and comes in matte or glossy options.

MSRP: $714.95

Arai — XD-4 

Arai invented the “dual sport helmet” years ago, and the best-selling Arai XD-4 is a best seller for a reason: Riders find the fit and finish among the best out there, and it features a Snell 2020 safety rating, something not many helmets achieve. It’s been tweaked a bit with more top vents and larger front vents for even better ventilation, and it comes in a variety of colors – as long as you like variations on black and white.

Arai also updated the face shield with “brow vents” that help quickly de-fog the face shield while riding without needing to open the visor, which also features a locking tab for secure closure against the rain and elements. It also works well with goggles.

MSRP: $639.00

Icon — Variant Pro Bug Chucker Helmet 

Icon always does things a bit differently, and while we love the sporty Variant Pro helmet, we had to include this colorful variation called the Bug Chucker. If you’ve always got your fly rod tucked into your gear, here’s your helmet. Look past the fishy graphics, and you’ll find a sturdy Dyneema-reinforced shell, removable HydraDry liner, and two face shields – including the hi-viz red mirrored shield – are in the box. Be prepared for comments at every fishing hole. 

MSRP: $350.00

Klim — Krios Pro 

Klim needs no introduction when it comes to adventure riding gear, and the Krios Pro helmet is designed squarely with off-road use in mind. It’s lightweight due to the full carbon fiber shell, and Koroyd materials inside the shell are designed to crush and decelerate impact energy more effectively in a crash. Plus, it comes standard with a tint-changing photochromic face shield, an expensive option from most helmet makers. The Klimatek liner wicks away sweat, and the face shield works with Pinlock options. Got some highway miles ahead of you? The top visor comes off quickly to give you a better highway riding experience. 

MSRP: $749.00

Nolan — N40 ‘Full’ Convertible ADV Helmet 

On a budget? Need one helmet for several kinds of riding? Nolan has you covered with the “Full” version of their popular N40 open-face helmet. What’s it full of? Features and versatility. Both the chin section and top visor remove, as does the face shield, if you want an open-face helmet experience. Or, with the top sun visor peak removed, it’s a great open-road touring helmet.

With everything attached, it’s a solid ADV hat. Get chatty with Nolan’s N-Com communication system or add in another system. It’s also Pinlock ready for tinted shields and so forth.

MSRP: $199.99

Schuberth — E1 Helmet 

Who’s been making helmets for 90 years? Only Schuberth. That means you get a wealth of tech and design experience in the E1, and despite Schuberth’s “more expensive” reputation, the price is refreshing. Schuberth says the helmet has zero aerodynamic lift at highway speeds, and it even looks more aero-tidy than most ADV hats. The chin strap uses a ratchet strap for quick connection and release, and there are integrated antennas for their optional pre-fitted SRC-System comms as well. An integrated sun shield is also included.

MSRP: $599.99

Sedici — Viaggio Parlare with Sena Bluetooth 

On a budget but want a high-tech helmet? Don’t take a chance on some brand X helmet when you can get a solid hat from the pros at Sedici. Not only does it look great, but it includes a built-in Sena Bluetooth communications system and an interior sun visor, just like much more expensive options. Talk with other Sena-equipped riders while riding, enjoy music, or get GPS prompts. The face shield is quick-release for easy swaps, and the inside padding removes for washing away that certain smell after a hot day in the saddle. 

MSRP: $289.00

Shoei — X2 Hornet Sovereign

If you plan on doing a fair bit of road riding along with some off-pavement adventures, the Shoei X2 Hornet Sovereign is a good way to go. The advanced materials make it smaller, lighter, more compact, and very aerodynamic for riding at higher speeds on long stretches of highway. The upgraded Max-Dry System II liner material soaks up sweat on a hot ride, and the internal foam density varies for more comfort and protection. It has a lot of ventilation openings, and it’s also Snell approved for ultimate protection. 

MSRP: $759.00

Honestly, it is impossible to name just one overlanding rig. It really comes down to personal taste, budget, and intended use.

I’ll explain more below what factors I think make for a great overlanding rig. Things like payload, fuel economy and power output, size and footprint, drivability, capability and reliability, and affordability are all factors that one should consider when selecting a vehicle for overlanding.

For the first time ever, though, I am going to name some vehicles in a few different categories that I think are the best, the standouts. Without further ado, here they are.

Mid-Size Pickup Truck

1. Fifth-Gen Ford Ranger (2019-Present)

I am about to disappoint a lot of Tacoma fans, but my pick for the top spot for a mid-size pickup truck for overlanding is the fifth-gen Ford Ranger. You can read my review of it here. But the Ranger wins out for several reasons.

Ranger offers payloads between 1,609 to 1,905 pounds. Here’s how that stacks up in the segment:

• Third-gen Tacoma is between 1,050 to 1,685 lbs. (TRD Pro is 1,135 lbs.)
• Second-gen Chevrolet Colorado is 1,270 to 1,560 lbs.
• Nissan Frontier is 1,296 to 1,708 lbs.
• Jeep Gladiator is 1,080 to 1,200 lbs.
• Honda Ridgeline’s payload is 1,509 to 1,583 lbs.

See why I threw Ridgeline in there? It has a higher payload than the Tacoma TRD Pro. Bet you didn’t know that. Yep, you might say the Ridgeline is more of a truck than Tacoma is.

Ranger also wins out for its available electronically locking rear differential (on FX4 package), its huge, fully boxed frame (Tacoma’s is not boxed), and its compact size. It’s actually one of the most compact mid-size trucks in the American market, which makes it easier to maneuver on tight trails.

Its EcoBoost 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder absolutely kicks butt. It puts out 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Tacoma’s 3.5-liter V6, for comparison, churns out 278 hp and a paltry 265 torques. The Ranger is standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Tacoma has a six-speed.

While Tacoma has more aftermarket support for overlanding gear, the Ranger enjoys a lot of international support, since it’s been around since 2011 globally. ARB, for example, has a ton of great stuff for Ranger.

The Ranger is far and away the best mid-size pickup truck in the U.S. right now. Before you go buy a Tacoma, go drive a Ranger first. You’ll be glad you did. I recently bought and built a Ranger, and I love it more each time I drive it.

2. Second-Gen Chevrolet Colorado (2014-2022)

Coming in second place is second-gen Chevrolet Colorado. The third-gen has been revealed and will be hitting dealer showrooms soon. So, we’ll see how that one does. We’ll be driving it soon and will update this page with that link when we do.

But what I love about the second-gen is its powertrain and cab and bed-length configurations. I am particularly fond of the four-door, long-bed variant. That’s because it has a huge interior and a six-foot bed to back it up. You get a lot of the storage benefits of a full-size with a narrower body, which always helps on the trail.

The four-door, long-bed Colorado doesn’t come with any sort of locking differentials. You have to step up to ZR2 trim to get those — front and rear. And ZR2 is only offered in four-door five-foot bed or extra cab six-foot bed.

As for powertrain, I like that Chevy offers a diesel engine. I liked the idea of it so much that I owned one for two years. I wouldn’t get one again, though. They don’t pay off. Torque is higher, yes, but towing capacity is virtually the same.

The diesel Colorados are thousands of dollars more expensive than the gas versions. And they don’t return enough fuel-economy benefits to make the cost difference at the dealership pen out. And this is before the more frequent and expensive maintenance that diesels require. Oh, and the more expensive fuel costs, too.

Diesel in mid-size is a lose-lose. Skip it. I say go for Chevy’s 3.6-liter V6, which produces 308 horsepower and 275 torques, which are routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s a tried and true motor and won’t let you down.

Again, not everybody makes stuff for Colorado like they do Tacoma. But CBI has some killer armor for Colorado. So, there are still some great options for building an excellent Colorado for overlanding.

3. Second-Gen Jeep Gladiator JT (2018-Present)

Gladiator has to make this list because it’s the most capable mid-size, nevermind it has a small interior and disappointing on-road manners. And if you want to talk about aftermarket parts availability, look no further than JT, which shares a lot of its components with Wrangler JL.

If I were buying another (yes, I had one of these, too). I’d stick with the Pentastar V6 mated to the eight-speed automatic transmission. The Pentastar puts out 285 horsepower and 260 torques, which is adequate.

Gladiator distinguishes itself in this segment with its solid front axle, disconnectable anti-sway bar, and soft- or removable hard-top. The Gladiator is silly, reliable, capable, and fun. Aside from technical off-roading, it’s not really the best at anything in this segment. But it has a real sense of humor. For that, and many other reasons, it deserves a spot rounding out this list.

Full-Size Half-Ton Pickup Truck

1. Third-Gen Toyota Tundra

Starting for model year 2022, the third-gen Tundra now shares its platform — called F Platform — with the next generation of every global Toyota ladder-frame vehicle. From Land Cruiser 300 to Sequoia to Tacoma to Hilux — you name it, they’ll be riding on a shared architecture for the first time ever. This means that the new Tundra is essentially a Land Cruiser 300 with a truck bed.

I am not being hyperbolic. You can install ARB’s rear coil springs for Land Cruiser 300 underneath the Tundra with no problem. In fact, those are the rear springs my third-gen Tundra is riding on. This shared DNA with arguably the most successful overland nameplate of all time, Land Cruiser, is part of what makes the Tundra tops.

Toyota more than solved a lot of the problems of the second-gen Tundra. Namely, it replaced its ancient V8 power plant and five-speed automatic transmission. These were fine and reliable components but ancient by comparison to the rest of the field. Adding a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, 389 horsepower and 479 torques, backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard was a big efficiency improvement for Tundra. Then adding a Hybrid to the mix made it even more powerful. The Tundra i-FORCE Max Hybrid churns out 437 horsepower and 583 torques. Those are diesel levels of power and torque without all the drawbacks of diesel.

The main reason that Tundra is top of the list here, though, is because of the great number of aftermarket accessories. Honestly, I think the F-150 is a better truck. But there aren’t nearly as many overland-centric accessories for F-150 as there are for Tundra. Overland Expo exhibitors CBI and C4, to name a few, immediately turned out winch bumpers and bull bars for third-gen Tundra. They’ve yet to give that same treatment to the F-150.

2. 14th-Gen Ford F-150 (2021-Present)

The current F-150 should really take the top spot on this list for its wide array of power plants, cab and bed configurations, well laid out and feature-rich interior, impressive payload and towing capacities, and available rear locker at every trim level.

It doesn’t make the top spot, though, because most of the heavy hitters in the overlanding armor and suspension market have overlooked the F-150. It’s the best-selling vehicle on the market. Why ARB, for example, doesn’t make bull bars for F-150 boggles my mind.

I’d get an F-150 if there were as many offerings for it as there are Tundra. But for some irrational reason, Tundra has become the nameplate for full-size off-road trucks.

3. Fifth-Gen Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 has a lot going for it, including available HEMI V8, rear coil springs like the Tundra (ride-quality and weight-savings benefits), and an available rear locker even in the bottom-end trim level, if you specify the Off-Road package. 

While it has more aftermarket overlanding support than F-150, I can’t give it top marks because it doesn’t do all the other things as good as either the Tundra or the F-150. The Ram is excellent, if not a compromise, in most measurements.

Full-Size Three-Quarter-Ton Pickup Truck

1. 2023 Ram 2500 Rebel

This is the first truck on this list that I haven’t driven yet. I’ve driven the current-gen Power Wagon, however, as well as the 1500 Rebel. So, I can deduce how the 2500 Heavy-Duty Rebel will perform.

Why does 2500 Rebel take top billing for the quarter-ton truck section? It’s nearly a Power Wagon but with a way higher payload. Like the Power Wagon, 2500 Rebel offers front and rear solid axles. Where the Power Wagon has a front electronically locking differential, the Rebel does not. But as the Power Wagon is only offered in a 6.4-liter gasoline-burning HEMI V8, the Rebel can be optioned with that or an I-6 Cummins diesel engine. I’d still pick the HEMI version for a bunch of reasons.

Where the Rebel really excels is in its payload and towing ratings. Ram 2500 Heavy-Duty Rebel boasts a towing capacity of 16,870 pounds and a maximum payload of 3,140 pounds, while the Ram Power Wagon can only tow 10,590 pounds with a max payload of 1,560 pounds. I’d trade a front locker for more than double the payload any day of the week, I’ll tell you that.

Once I’ve tested the Ram 2500 Rebel in the field, I’ll report back with more. But for now, it’s the standout winner in my book.

2. 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty

Ford still hasn’t put out a lot of info on the new Super Duties. Its media site only has “preliminary” specs, and payload isn’t one of them. Neither is towing, oddly. I can safely assume, however, that the Super Duty will have class-leading figures here. And I hope the off-road-y Tremor trim will retain most of those capabilities.

Like a few other trucks on this list, I haven’t driven one yet. But given the incredible offerings Ford has been creating lately, I have no doubt that the new Super Duty will be a great choice of overlanding platform. Ford offers Super Duties in virtually every cab- and bed-length configuration you could dream of. It has a slew of great engines. Its interiors are top-notch. And as more people turn toward HD trucks for overlanding, the amount of aftermarket support for them goes up every month.

I imagine an F-250 being a great platform for an Aussie-style tray and canopy conversion, like the one we did for our Ultimate Overland Vehicle 2022.

I’ll update this section when I can drive the new Super Duty. Without having driven one, though, I already know it’ll be tops. 

3. Fifth-Gen GMC Sierra 2500

GMC has pushed hard into the overlanding market in the last few years. The brand is luxurious and rugged, which makes its ideal for overlanding. The Sierra 2500 is an impressive offering with 3,407-pound payload for the crew cab and 16,000-pound towing with the 6.6-liter gas V8 engine. With an available off-road-y AT4 trim, the Sierra 2500 is a compelling competitor in this list.

That said, sort of like the Super Duty, there isn’t a ton of overland-centric aftermarket offerings for Sierra 2500 or its brother the Silverado 2500. This is why Sierra 2500 finds itself in the third-place spot. That and its limited powertrain and cab/bed configurations.

The Sierra 2500 is a fine, handsome truck. And its 6.6-liter V8 packs a reliable wallop. If you don’t need all the overland accouterments on your truck, it’s worth a look.

Body-on-Frame SUV

1. Sixth-Gen Ford Bronco (2021-Present)

Bronco takes the top spot here because it’s simply the best all-round off-road SUV on the market. It has a lot of great things going for it, like its turbocharged power plants, tech-y but delightfully utilitarian interior, retro styling, and a heap of trim levels that run the gamut from Base to Raptor. Plus, there’s a growing list of aftermarket components for Bronco, which only makes it an even more compelling overland rig.

Bronco’s standout features are its independent front suspension (IFS) and its size. Wrangler JL, second on this list, is a similar size, but it lacks IFS. Third-place Sequoia has IFS but is very, very big, which could prove a liability on tight, tree-lined trails.

When I tested the Bronco 4-Door Black Diamond (without Sasquatch package), I found it too low-slung; it bumped and dinged off the trail floor way more than I had anticipated. On the flip side, the Bronco Raptor I reviewed proved to be the finest factory 4×4 I’d ever driven. That said, the Bronco product manager will tell you straight that the Bronco Raptor is not for overlanding. And with a body wider than a Ram 2500 Rebel, I found out what he meant.

To put a finer point on it, Bronco comes with from 275 to 315 hp. Wrangler has 260 to 470 hp. Bronco payload is 863 to 1,493 lbs. Wrangler is 1,052 to 1,351 lbs. Bronco towing is 3,340 to 3,500 lbs. Wrangler is 2,000 to 3,500 lbs. And I think the Bronco drives better, has better tech, is more comfortable, and is better looking.

To me, the perfect Bronco for overlanding is a 4-Door Black Diamond with the 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost, 10-speed automatic transmission, and a hard top — no Sasquatch package. Why? Because if you’re actually going to use Bronco for overlanding, you’re going to want to add gear (i.e. weight). And that means you’ll need to add constant-load springs and more heavily valved shocks. So, why get Sasquatch? You don’t need a front locker (really). So have $6,000+ and get a non-Sasquatch Black Diamond (with rear locker as standard) and get an aftermarket lift.

2. Jeep Wrangler JL (2017-Present)

It’s hard not to love the Wrangler. It is one of the most popular rigs in overlanding. It’s a great size, and it has the most aftermarket support of virtually any 4×4 on the planet. It has a wide range of available power plants, from turbo-four to plug-in hybrid to diesel to HEMI V8. And it’s rugged and reliable.

It doesn’t take the top spot here, though, because of its cramped interior and poor highway manners. Solid axles might offer robustness and great articulation, but they lead to highway wander, which, I can tell you from personal experience, can become maddening on long drives.

Wrangler JLU has a payload of 997 to 1,351 pounds, depending on the power plant, which is lower than the Bronco. Its towing capacity is also lower at 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. Bronco is 3,340 to 4,500 lbs.

I really enjoyed driving the Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain isn’t perfect, but it’s that unique midpoint between pure internal combustion and pure electric.

I will say that Wrangler has more of a sense of humor than the Bronco. What do I mean by that? It’s sillier — in a good way. It feels like Ford engineers were told to best the Wrangler. And I think they did. But they lost some of the frivolity that makes Wrangler so charming along the way. Is that a deal breaker? Probably not for most folks. Some, however, do want that soupçon of silliness in their rig. And I get that.

3. Second-Gen Toyota Sequoia

Here’s another shocker for you folks: I haven’t driven the new Sequoia either. But I do own the new Tundra, which is the Sequoia’s SUV brother. So I have a pretty good sense of how it performs. That said, the Sequoia comes exclusively with Toyota’s new i-FORCE Max hybrid powertrain and puts out 437 hp and 583 torques. That makes it a quick full-size SUV.

Add to the fact that Sequoia can be optioned for the first time with a rear locker with the TRD Off-Road package and is also offered in the TRD Pro trim makes it a very compelling overlanding platform indeed.

Although Sequoia shares its underpinnings with the Land Cruiser 300 Series and the Lexus LX 600, it’s longer than both of those vehicles. That’s because it has a third row. Having a longer body and a greater wheelbase can cause clearance issues off road. Thankfully, Toyota offers a lift kit from its dealers now, which lifts the rig by at least 2.5 inches. This should allow owners to fit 35-inch tires, adding a nice bit of additional ground clearance beneath the truck.

With a huge roof, Sequoia has room for a shorter rooftop tent and leaves space for additional gear. And with the third-row down or removed, there should be ample space for additional storage or something like a Goose Gear Ultimate Kitchen back there.

I am excited to see what you overlanders do with the new Sequoia.

What Makes a Good Overlanding Rig

In addition to those picks, let me further explain what criteria make for a good overlanding rig.

I realized the other day that the vehicle shopping advice I give to most people (commuters, etc.) is nearly the opposite of what I recommend for overlanders.

Tom and Ray Magliozzi of NPR’s “Car Talk” used to recommend people buy a vehicle to suit their daily needs, not their annual ski trip. They smartly posited that you don’t need a 4×4 to drive to the store every day. For the three days a year that you need a 4×4, you can go rent one. The rest of the time, you might as well drive a small, comfortable, and fuel-efficient car.

They were right, and I crib this wisdom when leading friends and family toward their next vehicle purchase. However, I throw that right out the window when it comes to overlanding rigs. That’s because overland rigs need to be everything all the time. Not least of which because you can’t wisely rent a vehicle and use it for an overland journey. Sure, you can, but I don’t recommend it for a whole host of reasons.

You need your overland rig, which will likely also be your daily driver, to be great on the highway for your commute as well as for your overland journeys (you won’t be off-road 100% of the time, sorry) as well as capable on the trail.

I lay all of this out because I don’t want anyone to conflate overland rig must-haves with any other vehicle shopping. It simply doesn’t apply. That said, let’s go nuts.

Payload

Payload capacity, for my money, is the preeminent spec you need to consider when shopping for an overlanding rig. You might not always need a ton of payload, but there will be times that you will. And in those instances you’ll be glad you have as much as you can get.

It might surprise you, but payload capacity can vary widely in a vehicle class, size, and even model range. For example, the mid-size 2021 Ford Ranger has a payload capacity range from 1,609 to 1,905 pounds. A full-size 2021 Nissan Titan’s payload capacity is mere 1,333 to 1,699 lbs. However, the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 mid-size SUV, with unibody construction, has a payload capacity of 1,670 to 1,942 lbs.

I compare these to remind you that just because a vehicle is big or a ladder-frame pickup doesn’t mean it’s naturally brawnier than something smaller or more luxurious. Don’t take for granted vehicle payload. Do your research and make sure what you’re getting suits your purposes.

Fuel economy & power output

Historically, in order to have efficiency or power, you need to sacrifice the other. There are exceptions to this rule, however. Take my 1992 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ80 — it’s neither powerful nor efficient. Nevertheless, it still might be one of the G.O.A.T. overland rigs.

On the flip side, there’s the 2021 Ford Ranger. It’s quick and fuel efficient. The Ranger returned 21 miles per gallon for me on a recent overlanding test trip. And it has an enviable payload capacity, too.

I point this out because, if you’re truly going on long-term and remote overland adventures, being able to go as far as you can on the fuel you have on board is essential. I don’t mean it’s just essential for your fun; it’s also essential for your safety. You never know what you’ll encounter, and you’ll want fuel reserves — at least enough to get you back to safety.

Even if the rig you’re getting isn’t miserly with fuel, consider its range on a single tank. The new 2022 Toyota Tundra has an average fuel economy rating of 20 MPG and can be equipped with a 33-gallon fuel tank. It might not be the most efficient, but it’ll certainly go pretty far on a single tank — maybe even far enough to allow its owners to leave the jerry cans in their garage.

To that end, let’s say you pick something with a smaller tank and lower fuel economy. Are there ways to bring along extra fuel? Can you strap some to the roof rack, rear bumper, or in the bed? Consider all options that will enable you to extend your fuel range.

Size and footprint

Some people are overly obsessed with vehicle width — at least from where I sit.

Most of my buddies here in the Pacific Northwest are convinced — convinced — a full-size truck couldn’t handle most of the narrow tracks we traverse. I plainly disagree.

My 2020 Jeep Gladiator with aftermarket wheels with a wider offset had a track width of 82 inches. Even the full-size half-ton RAM 2500 has a 79.5-inch body width and a 68.7-inch track width. If my Gladiator could fit, the RAM would fit.

At the same time, my Jeep was wide, but the body wasn’t. That meant my passengers and I were crammed into a smaller space. Meanwhile, I had to thread the needle with my rig due to its wide fenders and tires.

All of this is to encourage you not to be too afraid of size. A lot of overlanders are transitioning from mid- to full-size trucks. There are tons of reasons why. But take their lead as an example that, if you drive smart, you don’t need to feel hamstrung by your rig’s overall size.

Of course, drive to your ability. Know your rig, etc. I am just saying that you shouldn’t be afraid to get the rig you want, even if it’s a big boy.

Driveability

Like I touched on in the preamble, an overland rig has to be nice to drive more than just on the trail. It’s got to be a joy to drive on the pavement, too. Sometimes you’re going to log 12 hours on tarmac between trails. So, you better not want to pull your hair out when you’re on the freeway.

As a good rule of thumb, vehicles with independent front suspension (IFS) will be more compliant on the highway than a vehicle with a live (or solid) front axle. On the flip side, the live solid front axle may be more stout and offer better articulation on the trail. But take the axle and suspension style into consideration when you’re shopping for an overlanding rig.

The same goes for mud-terrain (M/T) tires versus all-terrain (A/T). All-terrain will drive more smoothly and be less noisy on the highway. In some cases, A/Ts may be better in snow than M/Ts, too. I once had a friend say, “I’ve never had M/Ts and wish I had A/Ts. But I’ve had A/Ts and wished I had M/Ts.”

I sure have, though — on the highway. Especially if you step up to 35s and above, M/Ts will wander and howl at 70 MPH so much that you might regret getting into overlanding at all.

Don’t get caught up in buying something like tires simply for their ultimate capability. Let the actual, realistic capability you need be the driving factor in your purchase decision. Base vehicle, planned mods, the terrain you’re most likely going to encounter, and your personal resilience for non-compliant road manners and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) play into your shopping considerations first and foremost.

Capability

Did I intentionally put driveability ahead of capability? You bet. You can modify a vehicle into and out of both categories while trying to achieve the other. Moreover, some of the items I touched on in drivability lead into capability.

That’s because you may well sacrifice some capability for driveability (I recommend it). However, you can make up for it in other ways.

A brand-new IFS mid-size pickup will likely never be as capable as a built Land Cruiser 80 Series. But 99% of the time, that modern pickup will be way nicer to live with.

Does that ultimately matter? Maybe not. Get a winch, some traction boards, know how to use your rig’s traction control system, drive slow and smart, and you will likely be fine.

Most of the time, precision driving will overcome mechanical capabilities. For prime example, watch Graham Jackson pilot Overland Expo’s 2021 Ultimate Overland Build up Colorado’s Red Cone trail. He makes it look easy.

Yes, the rig is highly modified and capable from the factory. But I’ve seen tougher, fancier rigs absolutely fail on that Red Cone. Meanwhile, Graham’s calm demeanor and expert driving lines make the infamous trail look easy.

Graham’s Red Cone performance should underscore for you that driving skill outweighs vehicle capabilities. Rather than throw tens of thousands of dollars modifying the hell out of your vehicle in the aims of improving its capabilities, spend some time and money at an Overland Expo learning overlanding skills — heck, maybe even from Graham himself.

Reliability

Not for nothing, but reliability is important. So too is parts accessibility.

Sure, Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vans are sweet to look at. But even before the pandemic supply chain constraints, replacement parts (that you don’t have on hand) are two or more weeks away. And that’s if you’re near a city. In the backcountry, you better hope you know how to whittle a water pump for a 1992 diesel Mitsubishi.

Follow my drift? Just because something is ostensibly reliable, like a Mitsubishi, means that it’s a dependable vehicle in the real world.

Generally, American trucks will have abundant and inexpensive parts available virtually throughout North America. Parts for American-assembled Japanese vehicles will have good parts availability, too, but they’ll be more expensive. Land Rover parts are hit or miss. First-generation Defender parts are quickly and inexpensively flown in from England. However, Discovery 1 parts are hard to come by.

Just because you’re getting a Tacoma doesn’t mean it’s reliable. The most failure-prone vehicle I’ve seen on my overlanding trips were on my friends’ Tacomas. Maybe those were due to driver errors and not design failures. I can’t say for sure.

Like with every category on this list, don’t rely on assumptions. Anecdotal evidence — even the one I just shared here about break-y Tacos — shouldn’t sway you. Look at historical and empirical data, like that from Consumer Reports, for your informed buying decisions.

No matter what you buy, you should know how to turn a wrench. That’s because even the most reliable and durable vehicles will require some trailside repairs now and again.

Affordability

Last but not least, we have your budgetary concerns. Hopefully, the amount you can afford to spend will shape this entire process — before and during — your shopping process. But I had to throw it in there just in case.

Make sure you can afford not just the rig’s purchase price but the necessary modifications you’ll make before you begin overlanding as well as the repair costs (there will be some, no matter what you get) and the fuel.

You can overland in a wide variety of rigs and vehicle types and generations. For novice overlanders, we won’t recommend anything older than 15 years. Safety technology, build quality, and parts availability has changed a lot since 2006. So, you’re well served to aim for rigs 2006 and newer.

Beyond that, let the sky be the limit. That is, so long as you know what you’re getting into.

At the risk of sounding like a grumpy old man, I often question whether it is a good thing or not to live in a society where we are so connected all of the time. Honestly, it is sometimes a good thing to turn off the phone and enjoy your surroundings without the constant barrage of notifications from your favorite apps.

If you are trying to power your mobile office, phone, tablet, camera gear, 12v refrigerators, or other electronics with your house batteries, it is critical to make sure you have enough power, so you aren’t draining said batteries. Augmenting your battery power with gas-powered, solar-powered, or even propane-powered generators to run your devices will make you sleep better at night.

Choosing an Overland Generator

What are Your Power Needs?

What are you trying to power while you’re off on an adventure? Are you running a mobile office with computer gear, satellite internet, monitors, and camera equipment, or are you simply trying to keep your GPS and phone charged? Make a list of everything you plan to power and try to get an idea of how much wattage you’ll need to power those items. A watt is the amount of amps times the amount of volts. A laptop requires about 50W, a refrigerator needs around 200W, while something like a toaster or electric kettle can use anywhere from 1000-2000W.

Capacity

Capacity is the amount of electricity a generator can produce while it is running. For gas- or propane-powered generators, look for capacities in the 1000W or higher range. For solar-powered power stations, look for a product with a minimum capacity of 500W hours or 40 Amp-hours, as that is ample power to get you through a weekend trip. If you’re powering a camper or a mobile office, you might want to consider a product with a 100 Amp-hour capacity.

Portability and Weight

The weight (and resulting portability) is directly dependent on the power output or storage capacity of the generator you choose. Power output requires a larger engine, and storage of power requires a larger battery. Larger engines/batteries create more weight, so plan for that if you don’t want to move and store a heavy generator.

Fuel Type

You have a few options for the type of fuel you use in today’s generators. Most of us that are familiar with gasoline-powered generators know they can be loud, smelly, and require fuel, oil, and maintenance upkeep. That said, there are many quiet generators on the market that won’t break the bank and will be good for occasional use when you’re off the grid. Propane-powered generators can run up to 60 hours on one 25-pound propane tank or three hours on a one-pound tank. The quietest and most energy-efficient generator by far is a solar-powered setup, but these require not only the power station but also solar panels.

Overland Generators

Dometic PLB40

Dometic’s PLB40 Portable Lithium Battery provides a three-way charge (12V DC, solar, or house power) and is designed to power coolers and other 12V appliances while you’re off the grid. It features a built-in 8-Amp charger for rapid charging and two USB ports for phones, tablets, and power banks. The lightweight battery with a carrying handle makes moving the PLB40 effortless.

MSRP: $849.99

EcoFlow DELTA Max Portable Power Station

With an expandable capacity that reaches up to 6 kWh, super-fast recharging, and the ability to power nearly every home device, you can stay powered on in any situation using the EcoFlow DELTA Max. The X-Stream fast charging feature can recharge the power station by 0-80% in one hour and fully charges it in 1.8 hours. The power station features an array of outputs including USB-A, USB-C, Six AC outputs, and one car outlet.

MSRP: $1899.00

Honda EU2200i 2200/1800 Watts Inverter Generator

The Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator is ideal for running anything you need to power while you’re off the grid. The EU2200i offers great fuel efficiency, running 3.2- to 8.1- hours on a single tank, depending on the load. All while keeping the noise level down, operating at 48 to 57dB, which is quieter than a normal conversation.

MSRP: $1199.00

ALP Generator 1000W

The ALP propane-powered generator allows you to have power wherever and whenever you need it using only LP gas– whether that’s your next camping trip, tailgating at the game, or when the power goes out. At under 30 pounds, the ALP Generator is light and easy to move. Each generator includes an ultra-bright LED light for added security in dark situations.

MSRP: $529.99

Goal Zero Yeti Lithium 1500X Portable Power Station

The Goal Zero Yeti Lithium 1500X Portable Power Station provides 1,516 Watt Hours for any project, indoors or out. It is powerful enough to backup home circuits in a power outage but portable enough to take to the job site or integrate into a van build. The 1500X features seven different port options, including fast-charging 60W USB-C Power Delivery, multiple USB-A ports, regulated 12V, and two 120V AC ports.

MSRP: $1,799.95

To choose the best overland generator for you, you’ll need to review what you need to power while you’re on your trips. You’ll need to choose whether you go with gasoline, propane, or solar power as there are pros and cons for each fuel type. Also, you’ll need to consider how much electricity the generator can produce and whether that output will power everything you need it to at camp. Finally, think about how often you’ll be moving your generator around camp and into storage – these generators can be bulky and difficult to move.

Most of all, get out there and enjoy the backcountry however you like to enjoy it. See you on the trails.

The wrong wheel diameter, lug pattern, or backspacing can create a whole host of problems. A wheel of the incorrect size can get caught on your brake calipers — rendering them useless. I think we can agree that brakes are a good thing to have – especially on a heavy vehicle – so you’ll probably want to avoid the wrong-sized wheel. Wheels with incorrect backspacing can create suspension rub or in worse cases, unpredictable steering.

With so much on the line, it is extremely important to do your research before clicking the “BUY NOW” button.

Here are a few vocabulary terms to get you thinking.

Common Wheel Vocabulary

Wheel Backspacing

Wheel backspacing is the measurement from the mounting hub (where the lugs mount to the wheel studs and axle) to the outermost edge of your wheel. Why does it matter? The more backspacing you have, the more your wheel is positioned inside the wheel well, and the more wheel in the wheel well, the greater the risk of the wheel rubbing on suspension, steering, or braking components.

Wheel Diameter

Wheel diameter is the distance (in inches) of the face of your wheels from one bead seat to the other. In a typical tire size for 4×4 vehicles 285/75r/16, the “16” refers to the diameter in inches of your wheel. Why does it matter? Simply put, smaller diameter wheels allow you to run a larger tire with a bigger sidewall — protecting the wheel from a direct hit from rocks or debris on the trail.

Wheel Offset

Wheel offset refers to how your vehicle’s wheels and tires are mounted and how they sit inside the wheel wells. Why does it matter? Wheel offset is a determining factor about whether or not a certain wheel will fit your rig. Generally, most front-wheel drive vehicles have a positive offset. So, if you want to install wider wheels than the factory size, you must reduce the offset.

Simple, huh?

Wheel Material

The next thing you’ll need to consider is wheel material. Here you’ll have a choice of steel, forged aluminum, or cast aluminum. It all comes down to weight and cost.

Steel Wheels

Steel wheels are by far the least expensive wheel type if you’re looking to save a little cash. As an added bonus, steel wheels are incredibly strong. A steel wheel will bend from a direct hit versus an aluminum wheel that will just crack. Steel wheels are (often) trail repairable with a hammer, elbow grease, and some time. 

One drawback of steel wheels is weight. A similar diameter steel wheel versus an aluminum wheel can weigh up to 10 pounds more per wheel. That might not seem like a lot, but you’ll definitely notice it in fuel economy.

Aluminum Wheels

Aluminum wheels can either be forged or cast. Let’s get this out of the way quickly; you do not want to buy a cast aluminum wheel for any type of off-road travel. Cast aluminum wheels are less durable than a forged aluminum wheel, and you’re just better off going with a forged wheel. 

Though forged wheels are about as durable as steel wheels, they can crack or break under extreme stress. The cost of repairing an aluminum wheel is slightly higher than the cost of repairing a steel wheel.

Some of Our Favorite Overland Wheels

Now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s take a look at some of our favorite wheels for overlanding.

Method Race Wheels 704 Trail Series

Method Racing Wheels have been a favorite of ours for years – and for good reason. Made from solid A356 aluminum with T6 heat treatment, these trail-ready wheels will get you where you want to go, whether heading off to a remote campsite or hitting town for a resupply mission. Method’s patented BeadGrip® technology engages the tire bead for increased grip at low air pressures. The aggressive safety hump on their bead seat prevents further de-beading – allowing you to lower your air pressure and feel confident about your tire staying on your wheel.

The Method 704 Trail Series retails for $265 each.

Black Rhino Overland Matte Black Wheels

The Black Rhino Overland Wheel is a rugged, custom wheel that covers a full range of lifted and stock off-highway vehicles. These wheels are designed with large lips to provide a safe bead seat for oversized off-road tires. Finished in a matte black color, these wheels look stealthy while providing a solid base for your overland travels.

The Black Rhino Overland wheel retails for $294.00 each

Fifteen52 Analog HD Wheels

We love the classic “steelie” look of the Fifteen52 Analog HD, but under the throwback exterior is a fully modern wheel with all-aluminum construction to reduce unsprung weight, a dimensional center section to channel airflow into the braking system, and reinforced flanges. Available in 16″ and 17″ diameters, Fifteen52 has wheels for the Ford Bronco, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra, Jeep, Toyota Land Cruiser, and many more.

The Fifteen52 Analog HD retails for $334.80

ICON Vehicle Dynamics Rebound Pro Wheel

We were so enamored with the ICON Vehicle Dynamics Rebound Pros, that we put them on our 2022 Ultimate Overland Vehicle Build, the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X. Developed with patent pending INNERLOCK Technology, the Rebound Pro utilizes a robust bead retention system that keeps the tire bead secured to the wheel – while also being fully DOT compliant. The Rebound Pro was engineered to maximize caliper clearance and optimize wheel position for unhindered suspension travel and steering function.

The ICON Vehicle Dynamics Rebound Pro Wheel retails for $314.49

So there you go, a quick primer on choosing the best wheels for your rig while taking into account important measurements like backspacing, diameter, and offset. Research is the most important part of any purchase, so go get your measurements, read the info that came with your suspension, and start shopping!

See you out on the trail!

Of course, drinking and driving don’t mix, but drinking after driving can be a great way to wrap up a fantastic day off-road. Take your post-adventure happy hour game to the next level with some top shelf gear to add to your camp bar kit.

GrowlerWerks uKeg Go Carbonated Beverage Dispenser

A crisp lager may just be the best thing ever after a long day off road and what better way to bring your brew to camp than a proper growler. Fill the GrowlerWerks uKeg Go at your local brewery and roll into camp with a half-gallon full of frosty goodness. The double wall vacuum insulation in this growler keeps every sip of your ale icy cold and the patented carbonation system maintains freshness and optimal carbonation for up to two weeks. The uKeg Go growler has an integrated handle and locking tap, making it easy to transport and, most importantly, to pour.

MSRP: $119.00

BruMate Winesulator Wine Canteen

If a chilled chardonnay or a cellar temperature red is more your campsite style, the Winesulator transports your vino in style. At 25 ounces, it holds a full bottle of wine and the double-wall insulation maintains the perfect temperature for over 24 hours. The leak-proof cap lets you leave the corkscrew at home and never spill a drop.

MSRP: $34.95

GSI Outdoors Rakau Knife Set

From slicing oranges for your Old Fashioned to serving up fireside charcuterie, the Rakau Knife Set has everything you need for backcountry bartending. The compact bamboo cutting board provides a perfect prep surface and the gutter around the edge helps keep things tidy. The three-piece knife set is made from stainless steel with waterproof wood-laminate handles and the kit includes a sharpener to keep your blades in fine form. The whole kit packs into a zippered kit and is ready to deploy as soon as your tent is pitched for the night.

MSRP: $79.95

Helinox Table One

Low-slung and ultra-packable, the Helinox Table One is so small it even works for motorcycle camping. This table has integrated mesh cup holders for keeping your beer upright and plenty of stable surface area for dining or a heated game of cards in camp. Weighing in at under two pounds, there’s no reason to leave it at home when there are drinks to be had by the campfire.

MSRP: $139.95

The Cocktail Box Co.

A perfectly balanced cocktail walks the line between sweet, sour, and bitter in balance with the alcohol and The Cocktail Box Co. takes the guesswork out of off-road mixology. These handy little tins pack down tiny and have all the essentials for an apres adventure toast– just add your own spirits and soda water. The Gin & Tonic kit includes enough ingredients for three cocktails: orange and lavender bitters, three packs of tonic syrup, and lime juice. The kits also include the world’s most adorable little bar spoon, so call your friends and let them know you’re going camping.

MSRP: $22.00

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Stemless Wine Glass

Stemware has no place around the campsite and neither does glass, for that matter. This GSI stemless glass works for highballs, lowballs, and wine alike. No matter what you’re sipping, kick back around the campfire and sip in style after a long day of glorious adventuring.

MSRP: $12.95

Snow Peak Titanium Sake Cup

When you’re going for an elevated drinking experience, the Titanium Saké Cup from Snow Peak holds a perfect pour of 1.8 ounces. The vacuum sealed double walls provide insulation and the premium titanium is flavor neutral. Intended for both hot and cold saké, the elegant design works for just about any spirit that you want to put in there.

MSRP: $39.95

Dometic CFX3 75DZ

If you’re looking for the Bugatti of backcountry beverage service, the Dometic CFX3 DZ is it. With two independently-controlled temperature zones, you’ll be able to keep your ice cubes frozen on one side and your sauv blanc at service temperature on the other. The 75 liter capacity holds up to 113 cans (that’s over four cases of beer, for all the hop heads out there) and the cooler is app-controlled and incredibly rugged. You can run the CFX3 on AC, DC, or solar, but if you happen to lose power, the Dometic holds its chill like a champ and won’t spoil your happy hour in the slightest.

MSRP: $1,399.99

Stanley Master Unbreakable Flask

Sleek and leakproof, the Stanley Master Unbreakable Flask holds 8 ounces of your favorite firewater. Because it is made of stainless steel, it won’t retain smells or flavors when you swap rum for bourbon. The wide mouth is internally threaded for smooth sipping straight out of the flask and makes pouring, not to mention refilling, easy as pie.

MSRP: $41.00

The good news is that cooler technology has come a long way in the last few decades. A segment long dominated by styrofoam boxes has been revolutionized with coolers that can maintain near-freezing temperatures for 10 days or more — even in the direct sun. These make them ideal for even longer overlanding trips, especially if you’re willing to keep your food and drinks in cold water.

In alphabetical order, here is a list of some of our favorite overlanding coolers.

Blue Coolers — 60-Quart Ice Vault Roto-Molded Cooler

With up to 10 days of ice retention, Blue Coolers’ 60-Quart Ice Vault is a great cooler option for those who want their ice to stay frozen as long as possible. It’s a good size, too, at 17.5″ tall, 26.75″ tall and 18″ deep. The Ice Vault features  “Easy-Close” lock down latches and airtight gaskets and seals. Blue Coolers brags they have designed “no-fail hinges.” And the lockable lid with bottle opener makes it secure, too. Non-skid feet keep it in place when it’s not strapped down. And a rapid drain system and removable tether handles make it easy to drain and carry.

MSRP: $299.99

DOMETIC — Patrol 35

Dometic is well known for its powered coolers and fridges. But did you know it also makes a robust ice chest series? Yep, it’s true. The Patrol ice chest series feature rugged construction and thick insulation. Dometic claims its Patrol ice chests, now available in the premium Slate Black colorway, will “truly keep your ice frozen for days.” The mid-size Dometic Patrol 35 quart cooler has a 28-can capacity and offers smart features like a leak proof drain, deep-freeze lid seal and one-hand rubber latch opening. Sizes range from 20 qt to 105 qt. The ice chest series comes stock with an accessory dock for Dometic’s line of cup holders, bottle openers and even a fishing rod holder — all sold separately, of course.

MSRP: $229.99

Igloo — 52-Quart ECOCOOL Cooler

The outside body and lid of this Igloo cooler is constructed with “ECOCOOL.” ECOCOOL is a material made with post-consumer recycled resin (PCR). Inside the cooler walls is THERMECOOL foam, which provides insulation to keep contents cold for up to three days. Cool Riser Technology lifts the bottom of the cooler off the ground, truck beds or other hot surfaces. This improves cooling and allows airflow underneath the cooler.

There are four self-draining cup holders to keep your cold beverages within arm’s reach. The convenient swing-up handles make it easy to load the cooler in and out of your vehicle. And the connect the handle brackets with a bungee to haul more gear (bungee not included). This Igloo may not be as potent a cooler as others on this list. But with a 52-quart capacity and a sub-$50 price tag, it’s worth having along just in case.

MSRP: $49.95

Pelican — 70-quart Elite

Pelican’s reputation for durability extends to its 70-quart Elite cooler. Extensive use of tough Polypropylene inside and out creates a tough container that’s just over 33 pounds, relatively light for its size. Able to hold up to 52 12-ounce cans. With integrated cup holders and bottle opener, the Elite cooler is perfect for overland adventures that require keeping a whole heap of food and drinks cool while not sacrificing on durability.

MSRP: $349.95

RovR — RollR 80

The RovR RollR 80 is set apart from other coolers because, well, it rolls. With a capacity of up to 120 12-ounce cans and 20 pounds of ice, those wheels might come in handy if you’re far from your vehicle. And the wheels aren’t just little casters, but rubber tires meant for varying terrain and being pulled by a sturdy aluminum handle with grips. It also incorporates a removable interior bin with two separate compartments to keep drinks and food separate. What also sets the RollR 80 apart from other coolers, though, is that many of its parts can be replaced with new pieces, ensuring its longevity.

MSRP: $499.99

RTIC — 45-Quart Hard Cooler

Although a bit smaller than some of the other mid-size coolers on this list, the RTIC 45 can pack a good amount of food, ice, and beverages inside. It measures 26.5” x 16” x 25.2” x 16.5”. RTIC boasts the 25-pound 45 can hold 36 cans, 40 pounds of ice, or 45 quarts (11.25 gallons) of water. Its molded construction makes it tough — tough enough to double as a bench seat. And the freezer-style lid gasket and smart interior insulation allow it to keep ice for up to 10 days. It also is nicely portable thanks to its heavy-duty rope handles.

MSRP: $219.99

YETI — V Series

If you really take your coolers seriously, the YETI V Series is worth more than a look. It stands out with its sleek, stainless steel exterior that incorporates a metal handle, metal hinges, and a neat, leak-proof drain plug. Exterior dimensions of 23 1/4”x17 3/8”x15 1/4” means it’s mid-pack among coolers, but the vacuum-insulated interior panels can keep 65 pounds of ice cold, or up to 46 12-ounce cans. On the heavier side for its size at 35 pounds, the V Series should be considered by those who want something more durable than the composite coolers out there and needs the additional cooling capacity, rather than sheer maximum capacity.

MSRP: $800

Klim Marrakesh Women’s Jacket

The Klim Women’s Marrakesh Jacket is the go-to jacket when the weather warms up. Combining airflow, abrasion-resistance, and full-body stretch, the Marrakesh is made with KARBONITE Micromesh that breathes easily and moves with you on the bike. The 1000D Cordura chassis and D3O Level 1 shoulder, elbow, and back armor deliver the protection you need to stay safe on the road. It fits like a glove and features brushed micro-polyester at the collar and cuffs for comfort. 

MSRP: $399.99

REV’IT Eclipse Men’s Jacket

Stylish and functional, the Men’s REV’IT Eclipse is another purpose-built mesh jacket for summer weather riding. The durable 600D polyester and mesh chassis includes Knox CE Level 1 armor at the shoulders and elbows and is compatible with a CE Level 2 SeeSoft back protector (sold separately). With adjustment straps at the waist, arms, and wrists, you can tune the fit to suit you perfectly. At under $200, the Eclipse gets you into a high-quality jacket without breaking the bank, leaving you more gas money for your next adventure.

MSRP: $189.99

Klim Artemis Women’s Jacket

The Artemis is equally suited for everyday riding and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. The Gore-Tex Performance Shell and the D3O armor at the elbows, shoulders, and back help keep you safe. High abrasion areas are made of Superfabric ceramic print overlays and Cordura, while the lighter inner panels reduce bulk. Ultra-durable and highly waterproof, the Artemis keeps you dry in even the most inclement conditions. Perfectly cut with a comfortable fit, it has plenty of pockets to carry your stuff and vents galore to keep you cool.

MSRP: $749.99

Mosko Moto Basilisk Jacket

Mosko Moto’s Basilisk Jacket is waterproof, breathable, and built for long-distance off-road adventures. Unlike any of the other products on this list, this enduro/touring jacket is designed to be worn with a separate armor system. It is made of abrasion-resistant eVent Expedition 3-layer fabric paired with SuperFabric in high-wear areas, like the shoulders and elbows. The fit allows freedom of motion, easy layering, and, because you wear your pads separately, you can stash the Basilisk on your bike when temperatures heat up.

MSRP: $599.00

Aether Expedition Men’s Jacket

Versatile enough for any adventure, the Aether Expedition Men’s Jacket is designed for long-haul touring. It is made from a 3-layer abrasion-resistant and breathable Japanese field nylon with double-layered fabric in high impact areas and D3O EVO XT elbow, shoulder, back, and chest pads. The Expedition is a great choice for varied riding conditions, being fully waterproof while also having excellent venting. Stacked with pockets and storage options, this retro-modern jacket is as good looking as it is protective.

MSRP: $750.00

Klim Badlands Pro Men’s Jacket

The Men’s Klim Badlands Pro Jacket is the industry standard for hardcore adventure touring. Gore-Tex Pro laminate in the shell makes the Badlands waterproof yet breathable even in the harshest conditions. Karbonite ripstop panels and Superfabric reinforce key areas of the jacket, keeping it intact when you fall off the bike, and custom D3O Aero Pro armor absorbs impact energy. Pre-curved arms and rider-designed fitment make the jacket comfortable for long journeys and the ten pockets make it easy to carry your essentials.

MSRP: $999.99 

Aether Chase Women’s Jacket

Protection meets style in the Aether Chase Women’s Jacket. It features waterproof zip vents and CE level D3O EVO armor at the shoulders, elbows, and back. Made from 3- layered Japanese field nylon that is abrasion- and wind-resistant, the Chase is seam-sealed for waterproofing. It is trimmed with reflective piping that glows bright white when hit by lights at night. With double-entry hand pockets and an internal pocket, the Chase is functional in addition to fitting like it was custom designed just for you.

MSRP: $550.00

Climate Control

Whether you’re cruising through the deserts or dodging snowstorms in the mountains, controlling your core temperature is key for keeping your endurance up while riding. Extend your season into the winter months with a heated jacket or chill out in the blazing summer with a cooling vest and keep riding all year round.

BMW Cool Down Vest

The BMW Cool Down Vest is like an evaporative cooler for your torso. Just like swamp coolers in the Southwest, the Cool Down uses the principle of evaporation. Wet the vest, and the Hyperkewl system absorbs the moisture, stores it for up to eight hours, and keeps you cool on hot days. Re-wet the vest to reactivate and keep on riding.

MSRP: $119.00

Mosko Moto Ectotherm Jacket

Mosko’s Ectotherm doubles up as your campfire puffy and cold weather riding electric jacket. The insulated base is 100g body-mapped synthetic PrimaLoft Gold insulation with Cross Core Technology. And when you plug it into the bike, the Ectotherm adds a 6-panel, carbon-fiber 3.5Amps/42w heating system powered. There’s no better way to extend your riding season when temperatures drop than to take the edge off cold-weather touring.

MSRP: $299.00

Hopefully, this quick primer and a short list of some of my favorite tires will help demystify the tire buying process and get you out on the trails in no time.

Understanding Overland Tire Terminology

Not only will you need some awareness of the parts of the tire like tread, bead, shoulder, and sidewall, you’ll also need to know tire width, wheel diameter, cold inflation load limits, ratio of height to width, and load range. Sometimes it feels like you need a Ph.D in tire-ology to get through it all. I’ll list some of the important terms below.

Tread:

The tread of a tire refers to the rubber on the circumference of the tire that makes contact with the road or the ground.

Bead:

The bead is the inner edge of the tire – made of rubber-wrapped steel – that makes contact with the inner edge of the wheel and creates an airtight seal that keeps your tire inflated. If you air down your tires for off-road travel, and you should air down, the bead could accidentally pop out of the seat in the wheel leading to loss of air. Some overlanders opt for bead lock wheels that keep the bead seated (or locked) in place to avoid this.

Shoulder:

The shoulder of the tire is where the tread meets the sidewall. An angular (or sharp) shoulder produces quieter rides on the street or highway. A rounded (or curved) shoulder may be noisier at highway speed and less smooth. The shoulder is the thickest part of the tire and helps the tire hold its form during cornering or when it is deflated for offroad travel.

Sidewall:

The sidewall is simply the side of the tire that you see when looking at the tire. Its basic function is to keep the radial plies protected and to help maintain the shape of the tire. The sidewall also holds the key to some of the more confusing numbering and lettering on the tire as we’ll discuss below.

Tire Width / Ratio of Height to Width / Diameter of Wheel:

These terms are expressed in that almost indecipherable string of numbers and letters on the sidewall of your tire. But they are decipherable. The current tires on my truck are BFGoodrich AT KO2s in the LT285/75/R16 size. In this example, the LT refers to a Light Truck tire. The number 285 refers to the width of the tire in millimeters – or how much tread contacts the ground (11.2-inches). The number 75 refers to the aspect ratio – or the ratio of height to width. Here, 75 means the sidewall’s height is equal to 75% of the tire’s width (or 8.42-inches in this case). “R” means the tire is a radial tire (meaning that the tire plies are arranged at a 90-degree angle to the direction of travel. And the 16 refers to the wheel diameter. In the example LT285/75/R16, this tire measures 32.83 (33)-inches in diameter.

Best Overland Tires

In my opinion, these are some of the best overland tires on the market right now. I’m basing my opinion on my own use or feedback from friends and colleagues, so your mileage may vary. I encourage you to read reviews, get feedback from your friends, and generally talk to as many people as possible before plunking your money down.

BFGoodrich AT KO2

The BFG All-Terrain T/A KO2 Tire has incredible sidewall strength with a three-ply polyester carcass that delivers a stiffer tread area for more precise steering response, better cornering control, and excellent puncture and bruise resistance. Designed to last and built to improve stress distribution, tread life, and resistance to irregular wear. Maximum all-terrain traction with a dual-compound tread and ShoulderLock technology and 40 percent wider shoulder grooves help provide increased traction and control in aired-down driving situations.

MSRP: $329.99

Falken WILDPEAK A/T3W

Falken’s WILDPEAK tires have always enjoyed a reputation for confident off-road performance, durability, and all-terrain dominance, even when faced with some of the world’s most extreme off-road competitions, such as the punishing King of the Hammers in the inhospitable and rocky Mojave desert. The WILDPEAK A/T3W is a great all-around all-terrain tire that can conquer a multitude of tough climate and terrain challenges while also serving as civilized, everyday driving shoes.

MSRP: from $232.00

Toyo Open Country M/T

The Toyo Open Country M/T combines solid on-road performance with extra ground clearance, higher load-carrying capacity, and greater ability to go off-road. Truck enthusiasts know it for its long wear, low noise, and aggressive tread pattern. An aggressive all-around light truck radial specifically designed for lifted pickup applications. The aggressive tread can crawl through any mess, while the smart lug placement and design provide precise, quiet driving on the street.

MSRP: $474.45

General Grabber X3

The folks at Expedition Overland have been using General Tires on their builds over the years for a reason. The General Grabber X3 offers aggressive styling and is engineered for durability, with innovative performance features. A series of deflection ribs protect the upper sidewall area by deflecting objects away from the sidewall. Three-ply construction on all sizes provides durability, cut, puncture, and chip resistance. Ultra high-strength steel belts ensure an even footprint for confident stability. Bumpers help release stones and debris from the large deep grooves, protect the groove bottom, and minimizes stone drilling. The Grabber X3 offers an aggressive, open pattern for high traction in mud, dirt, sand, and gravel, but is remarkably quiet and comfortable for the street.

MSRP: $335.99

Firestone Destination M/T2

Firestone’s Destination M/T2 tires feature high-tech rubber compounds and tread design that allow them to perform admirably off-road in snow, mud, sand, and rocky environments. At the same time, they remain relatively quiet on the highway and fuel-efficient. The Destination M/T2 are engineered to eject mud and stones to always keep your treads cleared out – super-important for mud-terrain tires.

MSRP: $308.99