This is great information and a massive tease since they are on back order. I'll have to do some research on these units and see how they stack rank with other products like Goal Zero.
All things Overlanding thread
- Thread starter el_kab0ng
- Start date
This is great information and a massive tease since they are on back order. I'll have to do some research on these units and see how they stack rank with other products like Goal Zero.
Vinsil
New member
No problem. I'd give Renogy a call and they are great to talk to about their products.
The closest goal zero portable panel kit that is 100 watts and compares is $750! Yikes. I'm not familiar with them at all.
hounddogman
New member
Yeah , unfortunately the more you set up a vehicle for a specific purpose the less versatile it becomes .
v_man
New member
I think a lot of people get caught up and distracted by the term "overlanding". Am I car camping or overlanding? Am I rock crawling or overlanding? Am I exploring with overnight camping involved or am I overlanding? Much like the word "tactical" , the term "overlanding" has been co-opted by companies and marketing directors to target a specific type of consumer to sell them products.
There's nothing wrong with that, but I think it's important to remember that at it's most fundamental level, "overlanding" is about getting into the outdoors, having fun, and checking out places that are new to you. There is of course an element of self sufficiency involved that necessitates all the fun toys and tools we buy to take with us on our overland trips, but like I said, I don't think "overlanding" should be defined by having the right type of shovel or color of Maxx Traxx....
With that being said, here are two of my favorite overlanding routes, the Mojave Road and the Dusy Ershim trail.
There's nothing wrong with that, but I think it's important to remember that at it's most fundamental level, "overlanding" is about getting into the outdoors, having fun, and checking out places that are new to you. There is of course an element of self sufficiency involved that necessitates all the fun toys and tools we buy to take with us on our overland trips, but like I said, I don't think "overlanding" should be defined by having the right type of shovel or color of Maxx Traxx....
With that being said, here are two of my favorite overlanding routes, the Mojave Road and the Dusy Ershim trail.
Spenny
New member
Kind of along the same concept of v_man, I too feel the term overland has been overplayed. Getting outside however you want makes more sense. A group of tundras I've wheeled with have decided to call ourselves Speed-glampers Überfart as a running joke.
I got into off roading from Boy Scouts and backpacking. It's been difficult for me to add creature comforts to my vehicle like a hot water shower and on board water, but i really want it all to be have that much more fun and comfort when out in the middle of nowhere.
We just did a 7 day trip through the Mojave road into Death Valley trying to test the amount of time we can spend off road without resupply. The only limitation we've discovered is gas range and fill up location. Everyone is carrying at least 5 extra gallons for a get out option, only on our north rim Grand Canyon trip did we need to use the fuel we brought.
The constant struggle of wanting a dedicated off road vehicle ready for adventure is really tough. Having everything modular is the key to success, and of course simplicity.
I got into off roading from Boy Scouts and backpacking. It's been difficult for me to add creature comforts to my vehicle like a hot water shower and on board water, but i really want it all to be have that much more fun and comfort when out in the middle of nowhere.
We just did a 7 day trip through the Mojave road into Death Valley trying to test the amount of time we can spend off road without resupply. The only limitation we've discovered is gas range and fill up location. Everyone is carrying at least 5 extra gallons for a get out option, only on our north rim Grand Canyon trip did we need to use the fuel we brought.
The constant struggle of wanting a dedicated off road vehicle ready for adventure is really tough. Having everything modular is the key to success, and of course simplicity.
owyheerat
New member
Just noticed this thread today...
I will be following and trying to contribute to this thread. I have recently been struck by the 'overlanding' bug, and have started equipping my rig appropriately. I spend some time on Expo portal also, but this community is so big and has so much to offer (I have learned a ton on here) that it is good to see this topic considered and discussed here.
I grew up camping with my family, and loved it, but I married a great gal that doesn't enjoy camping. So I haven't done much in recent years. 3 years ago I sold my ATV's and bought a well maintained 3rd gen. I started taking it out on day excursions, exploring and learning how capable and reliable the 4runner was. Last year, I started stretching the day trips into overnighters and went on 3 multi day trips (Overlanding), and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am new at it and have plenty to learn, but am excited to do more.
Sorry for rambling, but thanks for broaching the topic.
Oh, and my rig is not my DD, so my build might be different than most.
Durwin
I will be following and trying to contribute to this thread. I have recently been struck by the 'overlanding' bug, and have started equipping my rig appropriately. I spend some time on Expo portal also, but this community is so big and has so much to offer (I have learned a ton on here) that it is good to see this topic considered and discussed here.
I grew up camping with my family, and loved it, but I married a great gal that doesn't enjoy camping. So I haven't done much in recent years. 3 years ago I sold my ATV's and bought a well maintained 3rd gen. I started taking it out on day excursions, exploring and learning how capable and reliable the 4runner was. Last year, I started stretching the day trips into overnighters and went on 3 multi day trips (Overlanding), and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am new at it and have plenty to learn, but am excited to do more.
Sorry for rambling, but thanks for broaching the topic.
Oh, and my rig is not my DD, so my build might be different than most.
Durwin
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hounddogman
New member
Yeah , the only way I can afford a purpose built vehicle is to start with a $4000 4Runner . But it actually fits very well with our live style , we live on solar off grid about 30 miles from town so 4x4 is a must , being able to carry gas cans for occasional generator use is nice and having a easily secured cooler ( eventually a fridge ) is great for the groceries . But I've been thinking about a trailer so everything could stay all packed up ready to go . We use a Kodiak tent and it's nice but very bulky .
hounddogman
New member
Any one here run the CBDR ?Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route (COBDR)
owyheerat
New member
Another 3rd gen...
I did similarly, and bought a well maintained, high mileage 3rd gen. I am fortunate that mine is not my DD. Which allows me to build accordingly.
I like your choice of heavy duty guides on your storage drawer. I recently built a storage / sleeping system for the back of mine. I will try and post some pics tonight (at work now...shhhh).
We have loads of snow right now, so this thread is a good 'mental vacation'.
I did similarly, and bought a well maintained, high mileage 3rd gen. I am fortunate that mine is not my DD. Which allows me to build accordingly.
I like your choice of heavy duty guides on your storage drawer. I recently built a storage / sleeping system for the back of mine. I will try and post some pics tonight (at work now...shhhh).
We have loads of snow right now, so this thread is a good 'mental vacation'.
hounddogman
New member
Looks like we have similar taste in vehicles . Mine is a 5 speed as well and I have the same tires . How do you like the OME 861 springs ? My 7 wraps are kind of saggy .
owyheerat
New member
but you have the powerful 3.4...
Indeed we do. I have owned a few Toyota's, and have liked all of them, but this one is my favorite. Not saying its the best, I just really like driving it. Small and nimble enough to fit on almost any trail, but yet big enough to pack what I need.
Maxxis Bighorn 255/85's? I'm mostly happy with them. I love that tire size, and I wish there were more options available. They don't do well on packed snow or ice, and they are very loud, other than that, I am happy. Especially for the price (compared to others that same size).
I am happy with 861's. I started with 890's, then 891's, now 861's. They give me a little bit of a rake. I wish it was more level, but it's ok. It carries all the weight I want to load, and the ride is good. I'm not very picky on ride quality though. I expect (and want) it to ride a like a truck. They flex really good...too good. I need to install rear limit straps, so I don't out flex my shocks.
I hope this isn't a distraction from the 'overlanding' topic.
Indeed we do. I have owned a few Toyota's, and have liked all of them, but this one is my favorite. Not saying its the best, I just really like driving it. Small and nimble enough to fit on almost any trail, but yet big enough to pack what I need.
Maxxis Bighorn 255/85's? I'm mostly happy with them. I love that tire size, and I wish there were more options available. They don't do well on packed snow or ice, and they are very loud, other than that, I am happy. Especially for the price (compared to others that same size).
I am happy with 861's. I started with 890's, then 891's, now 861's. They give me a little bit of a rake. I wish it was more level, but it's ok. It carries all the weight I want to load, and the ride is good. I'm not very picky on ride quality though. I expect (and want) it to ride a like a truck. They flex really good...too good. I need to install rear limit straps, so I don't out flex my shocks.
I hope this isn't a distraction from the 'overlanding' topic.
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007Tacoma
New member
Definitely subbing this thread...
I am slowly building my rig to be "overland" capable but not dedicated. It still needs to be my daily driver, kid hauler, dog hauler, boat tower, highway expedition vehicle, and my happy place finder. I look forward to seeing everyone's ideas and all the different configurations.
I do agree with [MENTION=106195]v_man[/MENTION] that the "Overland" term can be kinda vague and a bit overused, but it does apply. I just want to get out and explore the path less traveled while enjoying being away from everybody else - safely. I would love to see this thread become its own sub-forum. Thanks [MENTION=133316]el_kab0ng[/MENTION]!
I am slowly building my rig to be "overland" capable but not dedicated. It still needs to be my daily driver, kid hauler, dog hauler, boat tower, highway expedition vehicle, and my happy place finder. I look forward to seeing everyone's ideas and all the different configurations.
I do agree with [MENTION=106195]v_man[/MENTION] that the "Overland" term can be kinda vague and a bit overused, but it does apply. I just want to get out and explore the path less traveled while enjoying being away from everybody else - safely. I would love to see this thread become its own sub-forum. Thanks [MENTION=133316]el_kab0ng[/MENTION]!
hounddogman
New member
I like the definition of overlanding as being more about the journey then the destination .
Titanpat57
Senior Member
I used a Renogy solar panel on my aluminum rack I built...100 w panel with a 10 amp MPPT controller...works great. I run a Dometic fridge from March thru November.
Starts at post #64
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/213730-2016-roam-4runner-build-5.html
I think this thread is a good idea, but agree it needs some way to keep it organized.
As far as the whole overlanding scene...if you're traveling from country to country, using sole vehicle supported accommodations for 63 nights, I thinks that's what I picture as overlanding. If you're dragging your off road trailer into parts unknown, or driving in off the main drag for 3-4 nights...in my eyes that's camping.
There seems to be a real "push" to separate the two...but I've been at this scene for 9 years (and camping a hell of a lot longer than that) and believe the term gets misused....just my 2 cents. We go to a campground and camp...then spend the day and wheel....or travel thousands of miles on paved roads with some sideline dirt roads for adventure....whatever...I think it's just important to get out and do whatever makes you most happy.
One thing I can truly appreciate is the gear improvements, and the increase in convenience that overlanding has brought out. Some really cool stuff has hit the market. I think discussing some of the pros and cons about the individual use of these types of gear, could certainly help a first timer from spending money on stuff they don't need or won't use.
Airmapper
New member
That is the way I've always liked to view the activity. If you get too hung up on defining it, I guess you'll never really know what your doing if you follow some arbitrarily precise definition.
But according to some I'll be doing it wrong, no matter how I do it.
Good thing I don't particularly care how you define it, if fun is being had, that is what matters.
Spenny
New member
When you decide to do this, I've just invited myself. I know we'll get along and be best of "overlanding" friends
owyheerat
New member
owyheerat
New member
Mojave road desert trip
V_man, this looks like a really fun trip. The 'Dusy' does as well, but my rig isn't built for that...:shrug:
What time of year did you do this?
V_man, this looks like a really fun trip. The 'Dusy' does as well, but my rig isn't built for that...:shrug:
What time of year did you do this?
Did you go with an ARB fridge or something different? How do you power it at night? Dual battery is something else that seems to be a necessary item for multi-day journeys, but the electrical wiring is pretty intimidating.
