Overland & Camping Accessories

What belongs in an overland kit

Overland travel is about self-sufficiency, so most gear falls into a few groups: shelter, food and water, lighting, safety and recovery support. This category includes subcategories for fridges, tents (roof top, ground, and truck and SUV), awnings and shades, generators, water and waste, chairs, flashlights, spotlights and first aid.

Because the range is broad, think about your trip length, group size and the vehicle's payload before adding more.

Shelter and shade

Roof top tents mount to a rack and open in minutes, with accessories such as ladders, covers and annexes, as in the ARB listings. Truck bed tents and ground tents are lighter on the vehicle. Awnings, with optional rooms and floors, add shade and weather cover. For all of them, check the rack's dynamic load rating, the tent weight and the vehicle's roof limits.

Fridges, coolers and power

Portable fridge-freezers, such as the 82 quart ARB unit in the listings, run on 12 or 24 volt DC and need a proper wiring kit and a fused power source. A dual battery or portable power station keeps a fridge running without draining the starting battery. Insulated coolers such as Yeti and AO work without power but need ice. Compare capacity in quarts, since a larger one uses more space and weight.

Safety, lighting and packing

Safety kits and first aid supplies are valuable on remote trails. A fire extinguisher should be in a bracket that holds it firmly, rated for the vehicle, and checked on a schedule. Hand held spotlights, headlamps and dome lights supply light without relying on the headlights.

Weight adds up. Check your vehicle's payload rating and distribute loads low and centered. Secure all cargo, since loose items become hazards. Confirm fitment and compatibility for your exact year, make and model where a product is vehicle-specific, check electrical ratings, and follow the manufacturer's specifications. Rules on camping, fire and vehicle equipment vary by location, so check local regulations.

Finally, test new gear at home or at a nearby campsite before a long trip. Setting up a tent, running a fridge off your power source and checking that every bracket holds is much easier close to home than far from help.

Planning, power and mistakes to avoid

Start by listing the trip: how many nights, how many people, how far from help and what weather to expect. Build the kit in layers, beginning with safety and water, then shelter, then comfort items. Weigh what you plan to carry and compare it with the payload on your door jamb sticker.

• Pack heavy items low and over the axles, and secure everything with straps or tie-downs.
• Check that electrical gear matches your power source, including plug type and voltage, and fuse any permanent wiring.
• Do not rely on a single light or a single way to start a fire or purify water.
• Leave no trace: carry out what you carry in, and check local rules on campfires and camping spots before you go.

Review the kit after each trip, removing items you never used and noting anything you wished you had carried.