Overland adventure travel can be some of the most rewarding travel of your lifetime, but you cant get to where you want to go if you don't have a vehicle that can get you there. Your vehicle can make your trip enjoyable, or it can make it memorable for all the wrong reasons.
So you've decided to try out overland, and you took a trip or two with friends. Now it's time for you to get a vehicle of your own. But where to start? What should I look for?
One of the greatest parts of overland, in my opinion, is the vast array of vehicles used on the trails. Mid -sized SUVs are most common as they can store and carry a decent amount of weight, while remaining capable and maneuverable. However, the limitations only stop when your imagination (and wallet) does. Overlanders have used light trucks, 4WD vans, and even custom, heavy equipment such as Unimogs.
While I would not recommend taking a second mortgage on your house to fund your first overland vehicle, here are some items to consider:
Reliability
It has been said that the best overland vehicle is the one that completes the journey. Having a vehicle that you can count on to start and keep going when you are 300 miles away from the closest auto parts store is a major must for an overland vehicle. Make sure the vehicle you choose is reliable and parts are relatively easy to come by.
Upgradability
Overland vehicles require various equipment to ensure safe and reliable travel; from higher clearance requirements, to body protection, and storage solutions. Much can be custom fabricated if you have the time and knowledge, however, having strong aftermarket support will make it easier to prep your vehicle for overland.
GVWR
Gross vehicle weight is important to pay attention to on your vehicle of choice. Moreover, the space between curb weight and GVWR. This number will be the amount of weight you could carry for overlanding. This number will include you, any passengers, fuel, fluids, and everything you are packing with you on your trip.
Axles
Any good off road vehicle should have solid front and rear axles. This will provide for proper traction while articulated on obstacles and rough terrain. Considering that your vehicle will be carrying you and a whole lot of your stuff, the axles on your vehicle will be taking the brunt of the force. Make sure the vehicle you choose at least has the option to be upgraded to a heavy duty axle.
Attack, Break-Over, and Exit Angles
These are the angles in which a vehicle uses to tackle obstacles. Your attack, or entry angle is the from the ground to the bottom of the front bumper with your pivot point being the lowest central point on your front tire. Your break over angle is the angle from the lowest center point on either your front or rear tire to the lowest center point on our frame. And finally, your exit angle is the angle from your lowest central point on your rear tire to the lowest point on your rear bumper.
Likeability
Finally, and most importantly, you have to love your vehicle. You will be spending lots of time in your vehicle, so being sure that this vehicle is something you enjoy and want to drive is important.
For more specific information on plausible vehicles, follow along on overland.kinja.com as fellow overland enthusiast HammerheadFistpunch reviews used vehicle options in his series Overland, Under Budget.