Helping You Choose The Best Vehicle For Overlanding

Overlanding is an adventurous and self-reliant form of travel, typically in remote areas, where the journey is just as important as the destination.

It involves long-distance exploration, often through rugged terrains, requiring a vehicle that can handle off-road conditions while being self-sufficient for extended periods. When selecting the best vehicle type for overlanding, several factors come into play, including durability, versatility, fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, and the ability to adapt to different environments.

The "best" vehicle for overlanding depends on individual needs, but there are several popular vehicle types that are favored for their off-road capabilities and practicality.

1. SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)

SUVs are one of the most popular choices for overlanding due to their rugged design, off-road capabilities, and spacious interiors. These vehicles are typically built with higher ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and robust suspensions, making them suitable for off-road driving. Popular overlanding SUVs include the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender, all known for their reliability and ability to handle difficult terrains.

SUVs are particularly advantageous for overlanding because they can comfortably carry passengers and gear, and many modern models come equipped with advanced off-road features such as terrain management systems, skid plates, and locking differentials. Additionally, SUVs often have aftermarket support for modifications such as lift kits, roof racks, and additional lighting, which are essential for overland travel.

For many who don't regularly need the utility of a pickup truck, and for those who plan to camp inside their vehicle or in a tent nearby, an SUV really is the best option as it will generally have the best footprint for off-roading and the best compromise of capability and maneuverability. SUVs in many cases get similar or better fuel economy than their pickup equivalents as well, which pays off in money spent (or not) and likewise in the ability for self-reliant travel without frequent stops at fuel stations.

2. Pickup Trucks

Another highly favored vehicle type for overlanding is the pickup truck. With their large cargo beds, pickups provide ample space for gear, supplies, and even overland-specific accessories such as rooftop tents and storage systems. The combination of a powerful engine, four-wheel drive, and heavy-duty towing capacity allows pickup trucks to tackle rugged terrain while carrying heavier loads than most SUVs.

Popular models include the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Ford F-150, which are known for their reliability, off-road prowess, and flexibility in customization. Pickup trucks allow overlanders to equip their vehicles with additional features such as off-road tires, suspension lifts, and extended fuel tanks for longer trips. For many, the ability to carry more supplies or even haul a small trailer makes pickups an attractive option for longer expeditions into remote areas.

Small and midsize pickups have become so popular with the overlanding crowd that major OEMs have taken notice and are building vehicles tailored to the prospective buyer. The Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter is a perfect example of this, with kit on board that makes it better than a stock vehicle for overlanding purposes. Just know the price tag will reflect this.

3. Vans

Vans, particularly 4x4 models or those with all-wheel-drive capabilities, have gained popularity in the overlanding community, especially among those who prioritize comfort and living space during their travels. These vehicles offer substantial interior space for building out sleeping quarters, kitchenettes, and even small bathrooms, making them ideal for those who want a more home-like experience on the road.

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4, Ford Transit, and RAM ProMaster are some of the most common vans converted for overlanding. Their large interior space allows for extended stays in remote locations without relying on external accommodations. Many overlanders appreciate the ability to camp inside the vehicle, which provides security and comfort in unpredictable weather conditions. However, vans may be less capable on extremely rugged terrain compared to SUVs or pickup trucks, making them better suited for mild to moderate off-roading.

The Covid-19 pandemic saw the massive popularization of vans for overlanding use, which is great because now many are available on the secondhand market at a large discount.

4. Overland-Specific Off-Road Vehicles

For extreme off-road adventurers and buyers with even deeper pockets, specialized overland vehicles such as the EarthRoamer or Global Expedition Vehicles (GXV) provide unmatched capability and luxury. These purpose-built vehicles are designed specifically for long-distance overlanding in the harshest environments. Built on heavy-duty truck platforms, they feature four-wheel drive, massive fuel tanks, onboard water storage, solar power systems, and even full kitchens and bathrooms.

While these vehicles are the ultimate overland machines in terms of off-road performance and self-sufficiency, they come with a high price tag, often exceeding $500,000. They are ideal for those who seek the pinnacle of overlanding comfort and capability and plan to spend extended periods off the grid in remote areas. However, due to their size and weight, they can be challenging to navigate through narrow or highly technical trails.

Now that we’ve covered some of the best types of vehicles for overlanding, let’s focus on what might be considered the "best" vehicle for overlanding. The answer to this question depends on the specific needs and preferences of the overlander. For most people, balancing reliability, affordability, and off-road capability is key.

The best vehicle for overlanding depends on your specific needs, terrain, and preferences, but several factors generally make a vehicle well-suited for this purpose: durability, off-road capability, storage space, and ease of modification. Here are some of the top choices for overlanding vehicles, each with its own strengths:

Key Factors to Consider:

• Terrain: Are you mostly on mild gravel roads or extreme rocky trails?
• Range: Consider fuel capacity and efficiency, especially for remote areas.
• Cargo: Ensure you have enough storage for your gear, supplies, and recovery equipment.
• Modifications: Choose a vehicle with a strong aftermarket community for modifications like roof racks, suspension lifts, winches, and camping setups.

The best vehicle for overlanding ultimately comes down to how and where you plan to travel, the terrain you'll face, and your personal preferences for comfort and reliability.

Conclusion

The best vehicle type and the best vehicle for overlanding depend on various factors such as terrain, distance, duration, and individual preferences. SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and overland-specific vehicles all offer different advantages. For those seeking a balance between reliability, off-road performance, and comfort, vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Tacoma, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender are some of the best options available. Each offers unique strengths that make them well-suited to overlanding, with the right choice ultimately depending on your overlanding style and priorities.

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