Adventure and the open road: two things that can stir the soul. For many, the joy of exploring new terrain and seeking out hidden trails is the ultimate freedom. Yet, the experience is only as good as the equipment you bring along. With a plethora of trailers available, how do you pick the one that’s right for you?Â
That’s where the Rustic Mountain Overland Patrol XCT trailer comes into play. Compact yet rugged, this trailer is more than just a towable box. It’s a statement of intent for those who tread the path less taken. The Patrol XCT isn’t just about getting you there; it’s about ensuring the journey is as memorable as the destination.
Earlier this year, I had the chance to fly out to Alabama to meet up with the Rustic Mountain Overland team to see the Patrol XCT in action. It was my first trip to Alabama, my first time meeting the RMO team, and my first time seeing the Patrol XCT in person. To say that it was a fun (and impressive!) trip is an understatement!
Not only did I have a great time enjoying the outdoors, but I enjoyed getting to know the RMO folks and seeing their passion for all things outdoors. Seeing what the Patrol XCT offers was highly impressive, too. As you’ll see in the review below, there is a lot to love about this little trailer!
As an added bonus, Jesse Houston, “Overland Chef,” brought along his master chef skills and his Patrol XCT trailer to provide us with some absolutely incredible food. Many of the images in this article are of his trailer. I’ll share more about his incredible cooking later on.
For now, buckle up as we delve into the Patrol XCT, explore why this rig is making waves among outdoor enthusiasts, and why it could be your next best travel buddy!
Table of Contents
- The Rustic Mountain Patrol XCT is Compact and Lightweight
- The Patrol XCT Offers Superb Off-Road Specs
- Rustic Mountain Has Crammed LOTS of Storage in the Patrol XCT
- You Can Customize the Rustic Mountain Overland Patrol XCT
- The Best Camp Meal I’ve Ever Had
- FAQs About the Patrol XCT
The Rustic Mountain Patrol XCT is Compact and Lightweight
Size and weight matter, especially when you’re navigating those tricky off-road trails or trying to find that perfect camping spot. The bigger the trailer, the more cumbersome it can be, right? Well, that’s where the Rustic Mountain Patrol XCT stands out.
This trailer has been designed for maneuverability, measuring in at a neat 144 inches in length and 66 inches in width. Its dimensions ensure you don’t need to wrestle with it on tight turns or when squeezing into that secluded spot you’ve been eyeing.Â
And at just 1,175 pounds dry, it’s light enough to tow without draining your vehicle’s power or fuel efficiency. It’s so lightweight that you might even forget it’s tagging along behind you!
But don’t mistake its compact design for a lack of durability. It’s built with the strength to handle rough terrain and keep up with your adventurous spirit. So, if you’ve been searching for a trailer that offers the best of both worlds of compact design and robust performance, the Patrol XCT is a clear winner
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The Patrol XCT Offers Superb Off-Road Specs
When you’re venturing into the great unknown, the terrain can be unpredictable. Gravel roads, muddy trails, rocky paths – you need a trailer that’s ready to tackle them all. Enter the Patrol XCT, an off-road champion!
Right off the bat, it boasts a Timbren HD 2200-pound axle-less suspension. This isn’t just a fancy term; it translates to reliability and a smooth towing experience, even when the going gets tough.
Pair that with its 31-inch all-terrain tires, and you’ve got a trailer that grips the ground like a pro. Whether it’s a wet, muddy trail or a steep, rocky incline, these tires, set on sturdy 15-inch steel wheels, ensure the Patrol XCT won’t back down.
And speaking of rocky terrain, the Lock-N-Roll hitch is a game-changer. Instead of the usual limitations, this hitch offers three-axis movement, including an impressive 360 degrees of rotation. To top it off, a textured powder coat shields the frame, offering that extra layer of protection from the elements.
Rustic Mountain Has Crammed LOTS of Storage in the Patrol XCT
Storage might not be the first thing on your mind when you think about a compact trailer. But with the Patrol XCT, you’d be surprised at how much you can pack into it!
Starting up top, there’s the custom 16-inch tall roof rack. Whether you’re thinking of pitching a rooftop tent, strapping on a cargo box, or mounting your bikes or kayaks, this rack has got you covered. The height of this roof rack means there’s a generous space underneath to stow away even more gear.Â
Swing over to the side, and you’ve got a tilting lid that opens up to reveal a storage tub that spans 72 inches in length and up to 52 inches in width. Perfect for keeping your clothes, food, and, well, any quirky collectibles you might travel with, safe and dry. When you don’t want to open the entire lid, there’s a rear tailgate that gives you quick access to grab what you need.
But the storage wonders don’t stop there. The Patrol XCT’s front tongue box is a marvel. With access doors on both sides, it’s the perfect spot for essentials like a fridge or even your electrical components. And atop this box, you can find a handy cargo basket for those frequently used items.
You Can Customize the Rustic Mountain Overland Patrol XCT
One size doesn’t always fit all, especially when it comes to adventure gear. The Patrol XCT gets that, and delivers on the customization front…
Want to level up your off-road game? Consider an upgrade to the Cruisemaster CRS2 suspension, ensuring even smoother rides across unpredictable terrain.Â
Tires are the unsung heroes of any road trip. So, investing in a matching spare tire for the Patrol XCT is a wise move. After all, you never know when you’ll need it, especially on those far-from-civilization adventures.
While you’re at it, you can think about adding the armor package. This isn’t just for show; it’s an added shield for your trailer when the trails get a bit more than rugged.
If you’re someone who values the interiors as much as the exteriors, Rustic Mountain Overland has got something for you. How about a custom bed liner for the storage tub? Not only does it boost durability, but it also adds a layer of protection for whatever treasures you’re transporting. Or, if you’re like Jesse and you need a robust camp kitchen, you can fit one on a slide that exits the back of the trailer as shown above. Nice!
The Best Camp Meal I’ve Ever Had
As I mentioned earlier, Overland Chef Jesse Houston wowed with his incredible culinary skills. Jesse was kind enough to cook the entire time we were there, and boy, was it good eating!
The rotisserie pork rack with porcini butter and chimichurri, pan-seared halloumi cheese with heirloom tomatoes, grilled peaches, fig vinegar, cucumbers, basil and pea tendrils, and southern-style black-eyed peas shown below was a particularly delicious dish.
Jesse is based in Mississippi and is known for his modern, creative, and playful take on cuisine. He taught himself how to cook while growing up in Texas and quickly discovered he had a knack for cooking. He attended the Texas Culinary Academy and, after graduation, worked with world-renowned chefs like Stephan Pyles, Wolfgang Puck, and John Currence. Jesse also assisted Craig Noone in opening Parlor Market in Jackson, Mississippi.
In 2014, Jesse opened Saltine Oyster Bar as executive chef and led the restaurant’s growth, which included accolades like being named to Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants list in 2015. A year later, Jesse was a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef South.
Since then, Jesse has traveled the world, learning about new cuisines and flavor profiles. Jesse completed a six-month residency in Tulum, Mexico, and explored cooking in Vietnam and Japan as well. Upon returning to Mississippi, Jesse opened Fine & Dandy, followed by the Sophomore Spanish Club for Miller Hospitality. In 2019, he founded Overland Chef, an outdoor, open-fire catering and lifestyle brand. Â
FAQs About the Patrol XCT
How Much is the Rustic Mountain Overland Patrol XCT?
The Patrol XCT starts at a competitive $13,995. Quality, durability, and all those features we’ve talked about, all wrapped up in high-quality, affordable rig!
Is Financing Available for the Patrol XCT? What About Shipping?
RMO understands that dropping cash all at once isn’t always feasible. That’s why they offer financing options to make the purchase smoother for you. And if you aren’t near their headquarters in Irondale, Alabama, shipping is priced at $800. Do note, though, they ship only to the contiguous 48 states. If you’re nearby or fancy a drive, local pickup is an option too.
Where is the Patrol XCT Built?
Proudly built in the USA, the Patrol XCT calls Irondale, Alabama its home. It’s American craftsmanship at its best!