There are so many reasons to love overlanding! As the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and throw yourself into the natural world in the most exhilarating way, an overlanding trip is your ticket to freedom, flexibility, adventure and excitement. If you’re keen to unlock the benefits of overlanding for yourself for the very first time, you’re in for a treat.
As with any adventure, being prepared is the key to success. Read on to discover the dos and don’ts of planning your first trip…
DO put safety first
The thrills and spills of overlanding don’t come without risk. You’ll need to prepare for all the ups and downs, and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to put safety first when travelling far from home.
Packing a first aid kit, satellite phone and GPS, and being armed with sufficient area knowledge and the details of your emergency contacts, could all be lifesavers.
DON’T scrimp on the details
The same attention to detail should be applied to planning your route. Research is a vital aspect of preparing for the journey ahead, with everything from the culture, customs and points of interest of the wider destination to more specific travel restrictions and permit requirements making for vital reading.
Thankfully, there are several fantastic locations where new off-roaders can ease themselves in gently. We’ve compiled a list of the best off-roading places to get started for your perusal. Once you’ve found the perfect overlanding destination for your first adventure and completed that all-important research, you can then get to work deciding on your route and planning your day-to-day itinerary.
DO embrace flexibility
Research and planning may be crucial yet embracing the flexibility that overlanding is known and loved for as much as you can during your trip is just as important.
Leave some room for manoeuvre in your plans. Unexpected pit stops, detours, delays and weather changes have the potential to scupper the best laid plans, but can also add to the magic of your entire trip. Prepare for the challenges with backup plans and embrace everything else you encounter along the way.
DON’T leave unprepared
Your vehicle should also be prepared for the journey ahead, and it all comes down to those upgrades and supplies. From gear that’s integral to overlanding safety to accessories that will make life more comfortable when travelling off-road, they all matter.
Alongside recovery essentials (like a winch and recovery kit), you should consider your accommodation. Hotels and other accommodation options are limited in the most rugged and remote places. You can however be prepared to pitch up anywhere with the addition of a rooftop tent as Popular Mechanics explains:
“Since overlanders typically camp out most nights, a good shelter is a must. The best tents for this are rooftop models, which are designed to connect to the top of a vehicle. They are usually very comfortable and spacious, easy to set up and take down, and have built-in mattresses too. Additionally, many campers appreciate the sense of safety and security they get by sleeping off the ground.”
If you’re taking an even more hands-on approach to overlanding, you’ll want to read our guide to planning and building your own overland truck next.
