Overlanding and Offroad articles

Quick Facts: Topic: Fire restrictions for camping and overlanding Region: 10 Western US states 2026 outlook: Above-normal wildfire risk, May through August (NIFC) Acres burned by early May: 1.85 million, nearly double the 10-year average Drought coverage: About 63% of the US as of May 1, 2026 Where to...

Quick Facts: Topic: Free dispersed camping in Colorado Spots covered: 12 (river benches, slickrock, and alpine passes) Land managers: BLM and U.S. Forest Service Typical cost: $0 (some busy corridors use free numbered sites) Stay limit: 14 days on most land; 16 in the San Juan National Forest Vehicle...

Quick Facts: Vehicles: 2027 Jeep Wrangler Sarge (two-door and four-door) and Jeep Gladiator Sarge Series: Eighth release in the Twelve 4 Twelve Wrangler program Inspiration: The 1941 Willys MB military scout vehicle Signature color: '41 Green olive-drab, first offered in 2020 Base trims: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Willys Wheels...

Quick Facts: Vehicle: Toyota Hilux EV (Hilux BEV), Double Cab, permanent AWD Power: 278 hp (208 kW) combined, 348 lb-ft of torque, dual motor Range: Up to 160 miles WLTP from a 59.2 kWh battery Towing: Over 3,700 lbs (1,700 kg) Ground clearance: 212 mm (8.3 in), wading depth...

Quick Facts: Vehicle: Honda Passport TrailSport (2027 reported refresh) Current ground clearance: 8.3 inches Reported 2027 clearance: about 9.3 inches (roughly 1 inch more) Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (carryover) Drivetrain: standard i-VTM4 torque-vectoring AWD, no low range Towing: 5,000 pounds Main rival: Toyota 4Runner Best for: buyers who want a...

Quick Facts: Vehicle: 2027 Rivian R2, a midsize all-electric SUV Why it matters for overlanders: Rivian R2 off-road tech aims at an affordable adventure platform EPA range: Up to 335 miles on the Performance trim Towing: Around 3,500 pounds with the tow package Price: R2 Performance from $57,990, with...

I've spent most of my life hauling camp gear into the backcountry, first as a kid sleeping in canvas tents and now as the founder of 4WDTalk. Over those decades, one lesson has stuck with me above all others: a lightweight off-road trailer changes everything about how you travel....

Quick Facts: Topic: L87 V8 recall lawsuit and motion to dismiss Engine: 6.2-liter EcoTec3 L87 V8 Vehicles affected: About 600,000 GM trucks and SUVs Recall launched: April 2025 GM's stated failure rate: About 3% of recalled engines Warranty added: 10-year, 150,000-mile powertrain coverage Lawsuit status: GM filed a motion...

The car camping vs. overlanding vs. RV travel question comes up around nearly every campfire I sit beside. I've spent 30+ years camping, founded 4WDTalk, and tested more gear than my storage unit wants to hold. In all those seasons, I've watched good people spend big money on the...

  Quick Facts: Topic: Free dispersed camping in Southern California Spots covered: 12 (desert, mountain, and OHV areas) Land managers: BLM, U.S. Forest Service, California State Parks Typical cost: $0 (no reservation, no campground fee) Stay limit: 14 days on most BLM land; 30 days at Anza-Borrego Vehicle needed: Stock...