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How to Start Overlanding

Image by sshepard via iStock

Overlanding is a unique type of adventure travel that involves traveling in a self-reliant manner over long distances through remote wilderness areas. It is a fun way to explore the great outdoors and experience the beauty of nature while also challenging yourself. Overlanding can take many forms, from a weekend camping trip to a multi-month expedition across multiple countries. 

Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a first-time overlander, the allure of traveling in the great outdoors and experiencing the thrill of adventure is hard to resist. Overlanding is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. It’s an opportunity to unplug from technology and immerse yourself in the wilderness, experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors. 

Overlanding is also a great way to challenge yourself and push your limits, both physically and mentally. However, before you set off on your first overlanding trip, you should consider a few things to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. 

This article discusses how to start overlanding, including how to invest in quality gear, splurge on comfort items, plan your trip, and take a test run. With the right gear, planning, and mindset, you will be on your way to a safe and enjoyable overlanding adventure. 

Table of Contents

How to Start Overlanding: Invest in Quality Gear

Camping stove at night

Image by sshepard via iStock

The first step of how to start overlanding is to invest in quality gear. This includes essentials like a reliable vehicle, good cooking equipment, and comfortable sleeping arrangements. It’s also important to have the appropriate clothing for the climate and terrain you’ll be traveling through.

When it comes to cooking equipment, it’s worth investing in high-quality gear that will last for many trips to come. This includes a stove, pots and pans, and utensils. It’s also a good idea to bring along some basic supplies like a first aid kit, flashlight, and spare tire.

Additionally, a comfortable place to sleep is a must for any overlanding trip. Investing in a good quality camping mattress and sleeping bag will ensure that you get a good night’s sleep while on the road. 

And finally, the right clothing is essential to staying comfortable while on the road. Invest in good quality outdoor clothing and footwear that will protect you from the elements.

How to Start Overlanding: Splurge on Comfort Items

Diesel Heater next to an SUV in the snow

While overlanding is all about getting back to nature and challenging yourself, it’s important to remember that comfort is key. Investing in comfort items, like the Planar Heaters 4kW portable diesel heater, is a great way to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while on the road. 

The Planar Heaters 4W portable diesel heater is a great option for overlanding as it is lightweight, easy to use, and provides reliable heat. This heater runs on diesel fuel, which is readily available and easy to find on the road. The heater has a compact design, making it easy to store in a vehicle or camping gear.

diesel heaters for overlanding

One of the key features of the Planar Heaters 4W portable diesel heater is its portability. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, making it a great option for overlanding trips where space and weight are a concern. The heater also has a low fuel consumption, which means that it can run for a long time on a small amount of fuel (3-4 liters = 8 hours), making it ideal for extended trips.

wired remote for portable heater

The Planar Heaters 4W portable diesel heater is also very easy to use, with its wired remote controller, which allows you to adjust the temperature and fan speed. This makes it easy to get the perfect level of heat for your needs, whether you’re trying to stay warm in a cold camping spot or just need a little extra warmth to take the chill off a cool evening.

planar heaters 2kw portable heater

While diesel heaters like this aren’t cheap, you can’t put a price on being comfortable while on a long trip in the wilderness, and the heater will pay off in the long run by providing a comfortable, warm, and safe environment while you’re on the road.

I’ve used this heater for quite some time, and have been thoroughly impressed with its performance. It is far and away one of the best overlanding items I’ve added to my kit! If you want to level up your overlanding experience, check out the Planar Heaters 4kW portable diesel heater today!

How to Start Overlanding: Plan Your Trip (But Not Too Much)

Women on road trip reading map

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While it’s important to have a basic plan for your overlanding trip, it’s also important to leave room for flexibility and spontaneous detours. Overplanning can take the adventure and spontaneity out of the trip.

It’s a good idea to tell someone where you’ll be going and when you plan to be back, for safety’s sake. You should also research the areas you’ll be traveling through and make sure you have a map and any necessary permits.

How to Start Overlanding: Take a Test Run

Close up of a young family hiking through the woods

Image by Geber86 via iStock

If you’re new to overlanding, it can be intimidating to plan a long trip right away. A good way to ease into it is by planning a shorter test run. This will give you a chance to try out your gear and get a feel for the logistics of overlanding.

Planning a two or three-week trip can be daunting, so it’s a good idea to plan a short trip to test things out and help relieve some of the stress of planning a longer trip. It will help you get a sense of how to start overlanding, what gear and supplies you need, and will also help you become more comfortable with the overlanding lifestyle.

A two or three day trip is a good length for a test run. This will allow you to get a taste of overlanding without feeling overwhelmed by the planning process. It will also give you a chance to see how your gear holds up and make any necessary adjustments before embarking on a longer trip.

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