Overlanding is self-reliant overland travel to remote destinations where the journey is the principal goal. Typically, but not exclusively, it is accomplished with mechanized off-road capable transport (from bicycles to trucks) where the principal form of lodging is camping, often lasting for extended lengths of time (months to years) and spanning international boundaries.
Where does it say you have to outfit your kit with thousands of dollars worth of gadgets?
After a trip to the Off Road Expo this past weekend I was reminded by plenty of exhibitors that most of their wares were out of reach for me and I started to get a little discouraged. I felt my 83 Bronco with it's 3 inch lift kit, and double shocks, and dents and dings was just a complete POS.
Then I thought about the trips I have taken throughout my life.
My wanderlust began at an early age. Surfing up and down the coast of Southern California. I had a 1976 Mustang 2 hatchback which I promptly pulled the back seat and built an area to stow my surfboard and it also doubled as a sleeping area. That little car had a 4 cylinder motor it was basically a Pinto with moderately better lines. I did put quality BFG Radial T/A's on it and tried my best to keep it up mechanically. It was what I had, and I didn't let anything stop me from going anytime I had the time and enough cash for some fuel and a couple cans of Dinty Moore Beef Stew.
You see, I was all about going and doing. I did not care how I went and did. I just did. I had a small group of also broke ass and like minded friends and we all did the same thing together. I guess I've been an overlander since the early 80's.
This trend continued when a couple of us became a pit crew for a class one racer. He was one of the last true privateers and he did not have a huge bank roll. We used to pre run for the Baja 1000 and several times we camped and slept on the trailer on the side of the highway. So what. I was a 17 year old kid riding in a race car pre running the Baja 1000. Hell, I'd sleep in a scorpions nest for that opportunity.
These experiences and others have taught me one thing. It is about the adventure, taking yourself out of the norm and getting fresh air and seeing the world.
Don't sit on the couch and wait to have the ultimate adventure rig before you get your rump in gear.
All you truly need to have a great time is a rig of course. Something to keep you warm at night, something to keep your beer cold, and a chair. Coffee is pretty important too, it separates us from the savages.
Grab a buddy and go. Try some local trails first so you can work out the kinks.
My point is just get out there. You will be sure to find other like minded adventurers on your journey.
You will be surprised how much fun you can have and how little you really need.
There are a couple Instagram feeds I have been really liking lately
Look at her! There is no BS with this chick.
She is a real inspiration. Can't wait to meet up with her on the trails someday.
@underland_usa
Their tag line says...
Do you really need a rooftop tent, an 8 drawer system, a fridge, a sink, a toilet, and a shower for your weekend trips?
I am on board with these guys.
So maybe I am not an overlander. Looks like I am an underlander after all.
Is this becoming a thing? I think I have been an underlander my entire life.
Lets start #underlanding trending
I'm not bashing the gadgets by any means, I 'm just saying don't let your lack of funds and cool guy gear detour you from getting out there and doing stuff.
