By Jack Moncure Overlanding is the newest craze. Surges of people are getting rigs and hitting the trail. Overlanding lets you explore new places and experiences without the discomfort of full blown camping. This outdoor activity has a massive appeal because you're able to go to previously untouchable places in comfort at a reasonable price. Although it doesn't take a lot to get into overlanding, costs can snowball quickly. If you want to explore overlanding, I'd recommend breaking it down into key components. How to get there: You need a capable vehicle. A 4wd truck or SUV is best, but a 2wd can be used. However, overlanding in a 2wd vehicle may require some driving skill and momentum. While limited, many people are getting by with cars and crossovers like Subarus and Jeep SUVs. Some modifications can help like lights, tires, suspension, and skid plates. Where to sleep: Here, you have many options, but you still have to consider where you're going to sleep once you get there. Many people fold down their seats and sleep in the car. Others use the good old fashioned ground tent. Then there are differing levels of rooftop tents (arguably the best option). What to do: When you get to your destination, you need to entertain yourself. Make sure to bring food, snacks, LOTS of water, Bluetooth speakers, chairs, and firewood. The journey is often more important than the destination, but you don’t want to spend all day wheeling and be bored once you're there. Where to go: Arguably the most important aspect is where you're gonna go! You want to look for places that are fun, with beautiful scenery and activities like hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and fishing. You have to consider the distance, the terrain difficulty, and the rules and regulations surrounding camping. My recommended places are the Sequoias, San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach, the general central coast, and of course my all time favorite Baja, places like Coyote Cals, Molino Viejo, San Felipe, and tons more. How to get ready: Outfitting your rig is hugely important. You can spend very little or a whole lot; so, it's important to understand what you need. When you're first getting into overlanding, you should start with the basics and add things one piece at a time as in the Johnny Cash song. It's always important to remember you don't need all the fancy expensive parts, and more expensive is definitely not always better. My personal recommendation is SmittyBilt and other 4WP house brand products. These brands have been working hard to deliver the same or better quality parts to outfit your rig so you don't have to break the bank.
Overall remember to stay prepared, don't get intimidated, and just get out there!
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