Overlanding: Everything You Need To Know

The fairly new concept of overlanding is quickly spreading in India. Travel enthusiasts are fast adopting this new form of travel that allows them to discover fresh, sometimes virgin locations in a completely new way. This refreshing form of travel requires more planning of the resources and less about the destination. And while that might not explain much about it, we're here to give you a complete overview of what overlanding is and how you can adopt it for your next journey.

Overlanding explained

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By definition, overlanding is a form of self-reliant travel to remote destinations where the journey is given more priority than the destination. In that sense, overlanding is done with off-road capable vehicles - principally SUVs - and the main form of lodging is camping. An overlanding journey can typically last for months to even years and can span international boundaries as well if the travellers are willing. But a short overlanding trip can be around 10 days long and cover major unexplored parts of a state.

The goal here is to load up the vehicle with all the necessary resources needed for the trip. This includes everything from food to cooking equipment. You also need to have as much fuel at hand as possible, so jerry cans filled with petrol or diesel are a necessity and need to be refilled whenever possible. Tents and other camping resources are also essential and so are navigation resources like maps and compasses since mobile networks might not always be accessible. As you may already have understood then, the vehicle is a major aspect of overlanding.

What's the perfect car for overlanding?

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To make it clear, overlanding is not restricted to cars alone. Short overlanding journeys can also be done on bicycles or motorcycles. In fact, some people even prefer to travel on trains with all the necessary equipment. However, overlanding is mainly associated with cars so that's what we are going to explain to you today.

An SUV or even a compact SUV is an ideal choice. That's because these vehicles have the power and the ground clearance to ride on rough terrain that could often be encountered during such journeys. An SUV with a 4x4 drivetrain is recommended even more for the same reasons.

Not only does the car need to have plenty of space for accommodating your equipment but it also needs to be rigged to carry some of the stuff on the exterior. For instance, it's better to rig the vehicle in a way that the jerry cans filled with fuel remain outside the car rather than inside. Your folding tables and chairs, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and groceries will also need plenty of space.

Overlanding essentials

Keep in mind these essentials when you're going on an overlanding trip.

1. First aid kit: Irrespective of overlanding, a first aid kit in your car is a must.
2. Fire extinguisher: Always keep one in the car for emergencies.
3. GPS system: Download offline Google Maps on the phone or buy an independent GPS system if it's not present in your car. And also bring a physical map and a compass for safety.
4. Camping equipment: Everything from a tent to sleeping bags should be packed.
5. Cooking equipment: Your car must be equipped with a portable cylinder and stove, apart from cutlery and groceries.
6. Other essentials: Ample drinking water, matchsticks, extra batteries, and umbrellas are some other essentials for overlanding.

Remember, if you're not fond of all these logistics, a number of travel companies offer overlanding packages as well. So, nothing can stop you from turning your next vacation into an overlanding adventure.