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A beginnerโs guide to off-road adventure and exploration
My husband is a dirt hound. He loves the call of an empty, desolate dirt road. Growing up in Arizona, dirt excursions were a fundamental part of his upbringing, which is how my journey into the adventurous world of overlanding began.
It all began when I bought my first Toyota, the beloved brand among dirt enthusiasts. Once we had that shiny 4Runner parked in the driveway, my husband immediately started planning our first overland adventure. With over a dozen trips under our belt, numerous upgrades to the vehicle, and a few dozen encounters with natureโs pinstripes (referring to scratches from vegetation), Iโm completely hooked! If you have a passion for isolation, unspoiled nature, and tackling challenging remote roads, overland camping might be just what youโre looking for. Read on to discover what to expect and some vital tips to ensure your trip is both enjoyable and safe.
Stopping and reading the historical markers on the trail is a fascinating way to connect your tracks to the history of the route (Krista Houghton)
Escaping Urban Life
One of my favorite things about overland camping is its ability to transport you far from the hustle and bustle of city life. This isnโt about high-intensity rock crawling or extreme 4-wheeling; itโs about taking things slowly and living in the moment. You get to camp beneath starlit skies, explore remote trails, and immerse yourself in the silence of the great outdoors. Furthermore, the lack of cell service allows you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with natureโs rhythms.
Navigating Tough Terrain
Keep in mind, overland routes do come with their fair share of challenges. Youโll encounter varying road conditions, ranging from well-maintained forest roads to those that demand serious 4WD capabilities.
While youโre not actively seeking trouble, being prepared for unexpected obstacles is crucial. I wonโt sugarcoat it; there have been moments when Iโve clung to the edge of my seat, forgetting even to breathe as my adventure partner, my husband, expertly guided us through icy terrain, rocky paths, and fallen trees.
Working as a team and overcoming these challenges together has led to a profound sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for the journey and for our relationship. So, choose your adventure partners wisely.
The author getting out to stretch her legs and explore. Looking for wild donkeys in Death Valley National Park is one of her favorite things to do (Lee Houghton)
Encounters With the Past
Another wonderful aspect of overland routes is the opportunity to traverse historical trails and visit small towns, which provide an enriching cultural education. Donโt hesitate to drop by the nearest visitor center, where youโll often find a local with a wealth of stories and information.
Some of these roads were once trading routes established by Native Americans thousands of years ago. Others served as US Postal Service delivery routes or connections between Army outposts and old mining roads. I found it intriguing that some routes were used by settlers traveling in covered wagons heading West.
As you embark on these journeys, you get to relive a piece of history, encountering old ruins, petroglyphs, historical buildings, and markers. This adds a fascinating and rewarding dimension to traveling the road less traveled.
Charting Your Adventure
While there are numerous fantastic overland routes available with precise details online and downloadable digital GPS maps, a significant part of the reward for me lies in conducting the research.
By studying the route on Google Earth, noting the topography, elevation, and alternative exits, you can become intimately familiar with your path. Donโt forget to reference a paper map, as it allows for a thorough examination of your route. In fact, my husband and I have created our own routes by combining segments of downloaded ones and overlaying our side routes. While we rarely spend two consecutive nights in the same place, when you stumble upon a special spot that warrants deep exploration or quiet contemplation, itโs important to slow down and savor the experience.
Driving overland routes can be an incredible adventure, offering unique opportunities to explore diverse landscapes and cultures. By planning carefully and embracing the challenges, youโll create lasting memories and develop a deeper appreciation for the beauty and history of the American wilderness. Always remember that the experience lies in the journey, not the destination.
Vehicle Setups
There are so many ways to outfit your vehicle for a great overall experience. Pictured here is a pop-up camper next to a secluded riverbank (Four Wheel Campers/Ryan Burch)
When it comes to overland adventure rigs, thereโs no single perfect setup. The ideal choice may vary from person to person โ influenced by individual preferences, the vehicle at hand, and the budget in mind. Consider your camping preferences, storage requirements, the number of people traveling with you, towing needs, recreational activities, and intended travel destinations, to help guide you in selecting the optimal vehicle platform for your overlanding adventures. Do your research to find what will work best for you.
Roof-top tents (RTTs) offer a versatile and accessible option for overlanders. When paired with your vehicle, RTTs provide a comfortable sleeping space elevated above the ground, away from critters and damp conditions.
Pop-up campers are known for their high towing capacity and rugged durability. These campers expand into comfortable living quarters that can be quickly set up, offering a cozy and secure shelter wherever your travels take you.
Adventure vans are a luxurious choice for stylish and comfortable overland adventures, fully equipped with sleeping quarters, kitchen facilities, and ample storage. They ensure a comfortable experience, but you may be limited on routes based on their clearance
Overland trailers, such as teardrop and utility trailers,ย provide extra storage space and sleeping capacity. Towed behind your vehicle, trailer setups offer a well-organized and spacious solution for those who prefer a clutter-free and well-equipped overland experience that can be unhitched for day trips and excursions.
Off- road trailers offer great storage and the option to unhitch once you arrive to your destination (Escapod Trailers)
Once you have chosen your platform, the customizations are endless. It can be a challenging endeavor and quite expensive, but the rewards are substantial.
Custom Builds: Enthusiasts often create bespoke overland rigs, modifying existing vehicles or starting from scratch. These setups can be tailored to specific needs, from heavy-duty off-roaders to expedition-style campers.
Motorcycles and Bicycles: For the more adventurous, motorcycles and bicycles offer a unique way to explore overland routes with a smaller footprint. They’re perfect for those seeking a minimalist experience.
Your choice of vehicle setup depends on your comfort level, the terrain you plan to tackle, and the level of self-sufficiency you desire. Remember, overlanding is about finding the setup that suits your adventure style best!
Safeguard Your Journey
Preparation is essential for overlanding. Before embarking on a solo journey, gain valuable experience by traveling with seasoned adventurers, joining owner rallies, participating in guided trips, or attending expos to gather as much information as possible, and keep these five safety tips in mind.
Taking unknown dirt roads into wild places is what makes overlanding so exciting (Four Wheel Campers / @TravisBurkePhotography)
1. Plan Thoroughly: Conduct extensive research on the trailโs route, road conditions, and weather. Carry paper maps alongside digital GPS versions. Do a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection to ensure your vehicle is in good working order, with high clearance and 4WD recommended. Create an itinerary while remaining flexible to adapt to unexpected weather changes or road closures.
2. Smart Packing: Pack essential camping gear, food, and an ample water supply (plus a water purifier). Include a well-stocked first aid kit. Equip your vehicle with a shovel, spare fuel, necessary tools, a full-sized spare tire, and traction boards. Consider carrying a solar-rechargeable power station for your phones and headlamps, as well as an emergency jump starter.
3. Fuel and Supplies: Top off your fuel at every opportunity, as these routes are remote and may have limited access to gas stations and stores. Plan your daily mileage and fuel stops carefully to prevent running out of gas in isolated areas (donโt forget that spare gas can!).
4. Environmental Respect: Follow the โLeave No Traceโ principles. Pack out your trash and dispose of human waste properly by getting a good poop kit, complete with trowel, TP, and hand sanitizer. Always go 200 feet away from water sources and bury it 6-8 inches deep. For a legit pee cloth, treat yourself to a Kula Cloth โ you wonโt leave on a trip without it. Respect wildlife and leave the places you visit as beautiful (or better than) you found them. And please, no social media tagging! Keep these routes off the beaten track, where they belong.
5. Safety First: Always prioritize safety. These are very remote areas so learn and respect the โFire Wiseโ rules of the area. Let someone know of your route and expected return date. Stay up to date on weather conditions and consider purchasing a satellite communicator for emergencies, such as a Garmin.
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Main image: Setting up a remote desert camp, complete with cocktails, a fire and all of the comforts of home packed into one capable vehicle โ thatโs what overlanding is all about (Photo by Krista Houghton)
Read more articles by Krista Houghton here.
