Searching through outdoor photos, have you ever thought, “Why does everyone keep saying ‘overlanding’ instead of just camping?” You’re not alone. Interest in this vehicle-supported adventure travel has surged, with the industry’s growth underscoring its shift from a niche hobby to a mainstream trend. For example, the premier tradeshow, Overland Expo, saw a massive increase in attendees from 2019 to 2022, attracting 77,000 enthusiasts seeking remote outdoor experiences. The term has exploded in popularity, but what exactly separates overland camping from your typical weekend camping trip?
To create this guide, we dug through forums, expert resources like Overland Journal, and feedback from overlanders who’ve actually put their rigs to the test on remote trails. We looked at what matters most: self-reliance, vehicle capability, and the mindset that makes overlanding unique. If you’re wondering whether your next adventure qualifies as overland camping, or you’re just getting started, this guide breaks it all down.
What is Overland Camping?
Overland camping is self-reliant, vehicle-based travel to remote locations where the journey itself is the primary goal. Unlike traditional camping, where you pick a spot and stay put, overlanding involves exploring off-grid areas, often spanning days, weeks, or even months at a time.
When you go overland camping, you’re completely self-reliant. You bring everything with you: food, water, shelter, cooking gear, recovery equipment, and supplies to handle whatever comes your way. Your vehicle isn’t just transportation; it’s your home base, kitchen, and survival hub rolled into one.
The beauty of overland camping lies in the adventure. You’re not just driving to a campground with bathrooms and picnic tables. You’re navigating dirt tracks, crossing rough terrain, and setting up camp in places most people never see. The focus shifts from the destination to the experience of getting there and everything you encounter along the way.
Overland Camping vs Traditional Camping
So what’s the real difference between overland camping and traditional camping? Traditional campers often go on foot or use vehicles to reach established campgrounds, state parks, or national parks where electricity, water, and toilets are nearby. They might stay in one spot for the weekend, enjoy some hiking or fishing, and head home.
Overlanders, on the other hand, are constantly moving. The trip’s value isn’t arriving at a site to set up camp and roast marshmallows; the joy lies in traveling unknown trails and exploring nature. You’re covering ground, sometimes hundreds of miles, and camping wherever the day ends, whether that’s dispersed camping on public lands or a secluded clearing miles from the nearest road.
A critical component of overland camping is upgrading your vehicle to tackle challenges faced off-road. This can include lift kits, winches, skid plates, and rooftop tents. Traditional campers don’t necessarily need a 4WD vehicle or any modifications; they might not even use a vehicle at all.
Here’s the thing: an overlander is a camper, but a camper isn’t always an overlander. Overlanding requires a different level of preparation, self-sufficiency, and mindset. You’re leaving civilization behind, often for extended periods, with no guarantee of cell service, nearby stores, or help if something goes wrong.
Essential Gear for Overland Camping
Getting your overland camping setup right means packing smart and prioritizing gear that keeps you safe, fed, and mobile. Here’s what you need:
Vehicle and Recovery Gear: Your vehicle is your lifeline when overland camping, so make sure it’s equipped with the necessary gear. At minimum, you’ll want a reliable 4×4 with good ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a full-size spare. Recovery gear, like a winch, tow straps, and a shovel, can save your trip when you get stuck on rough terrain.
Shelter and Sleep System If you’re overlanding in colder regions, knowing how to stay warm in a tent makes a huge difference on long, remote nights. Ground tents work too, but rooftop options make breaking camp faster when you’re moving location to location. A quality sleeping bag, camping cot, and sleeping pad will make those nights in the backcountry more comfortable.
Water and Food Supplies: Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day, and pack a water filter for extra precaution. For food, overlanding offers the luxury of packing cooking tools like a camp stove, cooler, and cast iron for one-pot meals. Stock up on non-perishables and ingredients that don’t need refrigeration as backup.
Navigation and Communication: GPS devices, offline maps, and a reliable communication system (like a satellite communicator) are must-haves. Cell service won’t always be available, so download maps ahead of time and make sure someone knows your route and timeline.
Safety and Repair Equipment: A first aid kit should include gauze, bandages, wound cleaning agents, an emergency blanket, a splint, and anything else you can fit. Also pack a tire repair kit, basic tools, spare parts for your vehicle, and a fire extinguisher. Knowing how to use everything before you hit the trail is just as important as packing it.
Choosing the Right Overland Vehicle
Your overlanding rig is crucial, but you don’t need to break the bank to get started. Several vehicle types can be made into capable overlanding rigs, including SUVs, trucks, vans, and motorcycles, from a high-mileage Jeep Cherokee to a slightly modified Ford Bronco to a luxurious Lexus LX 570.
Popular models for vehicle-supported adventure are the Toyota Land Cruiser, Tacoma, 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler, and Ford Bronco. What matters most is reliability and the ability to carry your gear safely.
An important consideration when purchasing and personalizing an overlanding vehicle is accessibility to spare parts and maintenance. Choose a rig with easy-to-find parts and avoid overly complex mechanics. Your vehicle will break down, and you need to be able to fix it or find help without waiting weeks for rare parts.
Consider suspension upgrades for better ground clearance, protective armor like skid plates and front bumpers, and storage solutions like roof racks or rear cargo systems. But remember, your vehicle is a tool to help you reach your destination, not the destination itself.
Suggested Reads- 15 Things You Forget to Pack for Camping (How To Remember Them)
Planning Your First Overland Camping Trip
When planning your overland camping trip, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your adventure is a success. Start by choosing your route and destination. Think about the terrain you want to explore, weather conditions, and how long you’ll be out.
Research Your Route: Check road conditions, required permits, and camping regulations for the areas you plan to visit. Look into dispersed camping options on public lands, which are often free or low-cost and offer more solitude than established campgrounds.
Budget accordingly. Overland camping trips can be expensive, so budget for gas, food, camping equipment, and any fees associated with the areas you plan to visit. Look for ways to save money without sacrificing safety or reliability.
Prepare for the Unexpected Some dangers to plan for are vehicle accidents, breakdowns, getting stuck, and natural disasters. Share your plans with someone you trust, pack proper safety equipment, and don’t be afraid to turn back if conditions get sketchy. The wilderness isn’t going anywhere, you can always try again.
Safety and Self-Reliance
Overlanding success depends on self-reliance, and your mindset is everything. You need to be ready to handle repairs, navigate challenging terrain, and deal with harsh environments and extreme temperatures. This isn’t a guided tour; you’re responsible for yourself and your group.
Practice vehicle maintenance before you go. Know how to change a tire, check fluids, and troubleshoot common problems. Carry a repair manual for your specific vehicle and familiarize yourself with its quirks.
Traveling self-supported also means going days without a shower, and at some point, all you’ll have left to eat is a granola bar and instant coffee. Mental toughness and flexibility matter just as much as the gear you bring.
Always practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out what you pack in, respect wildlife, and leave campsites better than you found them. Overlanders have a responsibility to protect the wild places we love exploring.
Where to Camp While Overlanding
For a truly wild camping experience, most overlanders look for dispersed camping opportunities on public lands. These unimproved sites offer isolation and the chance to wake up surrounded by nature, far from crowded campgrounds.
National forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, and some state forests allow dispersed camping unless otherwise posted. Some of the best options for finding dispersed camping opportunities are at the end of spur roads on public lands and the central portions of large sections of public lands.
Apps like iOverlander, Gaia GPS, and onX Offroad help you find camping spots, trails, and navigation resources. Download offline maps before you lose cell service so you’re never stuck without directions.
Private land camping options have also expanded recently, with platforms connecting landowners and overlanders for unique camping experiences on farms, ranches, and private property.
Is Overland Camping Worth It?
Overland camping isn’t for everyone, but for those who crave adventure, solitude, and self-reliance, it’s incredibly rewarding. Overlanding brings you solitude, possibly broadens your perspective and understanding of the world, and allows you to learn about other cultures while building mental toughness, survival skills, and resilience.
Once you stop limiting your travel plans to only places that provide facilities and require reservations, you’ll find new parts of the country, and even the world, to visit. Overlanding opens up access to incredible landscapes and experiences you’d never have from a traditional campground.
The learning curve can be steep, and mistakes will happen. Your first trip might involve wrong turns, uncomfortable nights, or gear that doesn’t work as expected. But each trip teaches you something, and the skills you build make future adventures smoother and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Overland camping combines the freedom of road travel with the adventure of off-grid exploration. It’s vehicle-based, self-reliant camping where the journey matters as much as the destination. Whether you’re navigating backcountry trails for a weekend or embarking on a months-long expedition, overlanding offers a unique way to experience the outdoors.
The best part? You don’t need a six-figure rig or years of experience to start. Begin with a reliable vehicle, essential gear, and a willingness to learn. Choose routes within your skill level, practice self-reliance, and respect the wild places you visit. With the right preparation and mindset, your first overland camping trip could be the start of a lifelong adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between overlanding and car camping?
Overland camping involves driving to remote locations using capable vehicles, often covering long distances and camping in dispersed areas. Car camping typically means driving to an established campground and staying in one spot. Overlanders focus on the journey and self-reliance, while car campers prioritize the destination and often have access to amenities like bathrooms and water.
Do I need a 4×4 vehicle for overland camping?
While 4×4 capability helps tackle rough terrain and remote locations, it’s not always required. Whatever vehicle you decide to use, a truck, van, SUV, motorcycle, bicycle, or even less common options, make sure you can depend on it. Your route determines your vehicle needs. Start with easier trails and upgrade your rig as your skills and ambitions grow.
How much does it cost to start overland camping?
Costs vary widely depending on your vehicle and gear choices. You can start with a reliable used SUV and basic camping equipment for a few thousand dollars, or invest in a fully built overland rig with rooftop tents and premium gear for tens of thousands. Focus on reliability and safety first, then add comfort features as your budget allows.
What’s the best vehicle for overlanding?
Popular models for vehicle-supported adventure are the Toyota Land Cruiser, Tacoma, and 4Runner, along with Jeep Wranglers and Ford Broncos. The best vehicle is one that’s reliable, has accessible spare parts, and fits your budget. Avoid overly modified rigs or rare models with hard-to-find parts, especially when starting out.
Is overland camping safe for beginners?
Indeed, but begin with manageable steps and enhance your abilities over time. Start with brief journeys on simpler landscapes near populated areas. Communicate your intentions to others, purchase the appropriate safety gear for yourself and your vehicle, and make the tough choice to retreat when faced with uncertain situations. Join overlanding communities, learn basic vehicle repair, and practice with your gear before heading into remote areas. Safety comes from preparation and knowing your limits.