ESSENTIAL OVERLANDING GEAR: HOW TO AVOID TROUBLE ON THE TRAILS
Overlanding provides the unrivalled thrill of exploring the unknown, journeying beyond the confines of a city or town, and deep diving into the wilderness. It tests our limits as we lose and find ourselves in beautiful, distant lands. It also helps us to rediscover our special bond with nature.
Yet overlanding also harbours the probability of encountering unexpected predicaments. To confront and conquer these challenges, it’s essential to carry the right gear with you. Here’s an in-depth look at the key items you need to take along when overlanding so that you can confidently tackle any unforeseen difficulties.
Recovery Gear
Despite your careful preparation and navigational skills, even the most capable vehicles can get stuck in rough terrains. Recovery gear is a fundamental necessity for extricating your vehicle from sticky situations. We suggest you take along the following:
Hi-Lift Jack: A versatile tool that, besides raising the vehicle for tyre changes, can also be used for recovery purposes. Make sure you know how to use properly as it can be dangerous if mishandled.
Recovery Tracks: The MAXTRAX recovery boards have forever changed the way we recover vehicles. They help to give traction when there is none.
Recovery straps and shackles: You'll need these for attaching your vehicle to another or to a winch. Remember to look for straps designed for kinetic recovery, as they can stretch and provide more pulling forces.
Winch: A winch makes pulling your vehicle out of a mud hole or gully a lot easier. Electric winches can be mounted permanently on your vehicle, or you can opt for portable, hand-operated ones.
Shovel: A good sturdy shovel is handy for digging your vehicle out. Also useful if you need to go and do a number two and have to dig a hole first.
First Aid-Kit
A fully stocked First Aid kit is vital for treating injuries. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, pain relievers, and bug spray in your kit. Also, consider adding a snake bite kit and an emergency blanket.
Repairs and Spares
Carrying a basic repair kit will significantly reduce your dependence on mechanics and tow-trucks. Include a multi-tool, wrench set, pliers, screwdrivers, and a hammer. A socket set compatible with your vehicle's nuts and bolts will be useful too.
A tyre repair kit is an absolute must-have considering the likelihood of punctures when overlanding. Be sure to pack a tyre plug kit, a portable air compressor, and a spare tyre. Carry essential fluids such as engine oil, brake fluid, and radiator coolant. It's also wise to have a set of spare fuses fitting your vehicle's specification.
Comms and Navigation Devices
When you’re far from civilisation, staying connected and knowing your location are crucial.
A Global Positioning System (GPS) is a reliable tool for navigating unfamiliar terrains.
Mobile Phone: Sometimes it’s much cheaper to buy a local sim card than using the one from your home country. You’ll be surprised by the great coverage in remote parts of Africa and Asia.
Two-way Radios: These will help you communicate with the convoy and are great for when the vehicle in front wants to warn others of what lies ahead.
Maps and Compass: Even with advanced GPS systems, having a traditional compass and physical maps do serve as practical backups.
Sat phone, Tracker or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). This ensures that others know where you are at all times.
Survival essentials
Lastly, include items that will keep you alive and comfortable when you are stranded for a long period of time.
Water and food supplies: Always carry more portable water and non-perishable food items than you think you’ll need.
Shelter: A tent, tarp, awning or even a hammock can provide shade and shelter from the elements.
Fire-starting Kit: This can include waterproof matches, a lighter, and flint starters. Fire serves multiple purposes – heat, cooking, signal, and morale.
