Overlanding is a truly fantastic and rewarding hobby. Whether you’re scouring the most rugged destinations on home turf or venturing even further afield, seeing the sights on four wheels really is an exhilarating experience… but only when done right!
Overlanding (the right way) isn’t something you do on the spur of the moment. It takes planning, precision, a great 4×4 vehicle, a few upgrades and some inside knowledge. Here is a selection of hacks to help you on your way to your first epic overlanding trip!
Hack #1 – REALLY get to know your route
Planning the perfect itinerary doesn’t just entail listing the hotspots you want to see along the way. Every overlanding route has its own unique challenges and trials, which will add to that sense of adventure – IF you can overcome them. With this in mind, we implore you to go as crazy as you can with your research!
Delve deeper than ever before by researching the weather (including nighttime temperatures), terrain, stop-offs, local laws and permit requirements. Considering the season is another must when planning your overland trip as Outward Spaces details:
“The time of year you plan to travel can have a big impact on your overlanding trip. For example, if you plan to travel during the rainy season, you’ll need to take extra precautions to ensure your vehicle is equipped to handle muddy roads. Overlanding during the winter season can provide amazing opportunities to experience nature in rugged isolation, but you’ll need extra preparation to make sure you stay warm enough.”
Hack #2 – If in doubt, start with smaller trips
If you’re new to overlanding, starting small and keeping planning tasks more manageable is what we’d recommend. An off-road day trip or two can be the perfect introduction to overlanding. From here, you can build your experience and quench your thirst for adventure with longer expeditions.
You should also travel in a group rather than fly solo if you’re an overlanding beginner, at least for the first few outings.
Hack #3 – Never buy new when selecting a vehicle
You really don’t need the latest 4WD vehicle to do your epic overland itinerary justice. The best vehicles for overlanding are tried and tested makes and models that have been enhanced further still with exactly the right upgrades and accessories.
Upgrading an older 4WD vehicle to boost its strengths and remedy its weaknesses is the trick. Thankfully, we stock thousands of parts and accessories, which can be sorted and browsed by vehicle make, model and series to make your shopping experience even sweeter.
By being more selective with your vehicle and its upgrades, you can get to know your make and model of choice and its capabilities fully, making you less likely to push it too hard or exceed its limits.
Hack #4 – Always put safety first when overlanding
Whatever upgrades and accessories you’re spending your hard-earned cash on, don’t forget to browse our recovery range.
The need for self-rescue in the most rugged and remote overlanding destinations shouldn’t be underestimated. If you become stranded, you often have to rely on yourself to get back to safety and on the road once more.
Cover the basics by equipping your vehicle with a winch or hi-lift jack, vehicle recovery kit, set of recovery boards, tyre repair kit, and first aid kit. An off-road shovel is another tool that will come in handy if you find yourself in a particularly sticky situation.
Hack #5 – Be prepared with extra fuel provisions
One thing you also shouldn’t be short of when travelling off-road is fuel. The best overlanding routes aren’t exactly known for their amenities! By investing in an additional fuel tank and filling up your vehicle to the brim, you can keep your big adventure going.
Hack #6 – Work on those driving skills before heading off
It is important to state that driving off-road is a whole different ball game than driving on-road. Before you head out on your first overlanding adventure, brush up your driving skills to make sure you are prepared and your vehicle isn’t lacking any essential upgrades or accessories.
Do you have any overlanding hacks or tips of your own? Share them with us and the wider 4×4 Works community via our Facebook page.
