Tested & Trusted: Overland Gear

Explore the gear, tools, and products that I’ve personally tested on my overlanding adventures. Everything here has proven itself in the field.

Disclosure:

Some of the links below are affiliate links to Amazon. This means if you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission—at no additional cost to you. These commissions help me continue to provide valuable content, test more gear, and, of course, keep the tank full for more adventures!

Timbren ABSTOF Bump Stops

The Active Off-Road Bumpstops offer off-road enthusiasts greater control over their vehicles' suspension travel. Using progressive-rate springs means that instead of a hard stop at the end of axle travel the axle energy will be absorbed when bottoming out producing smooth, predictable, and quiet axle engagement and disengagement. Unlike the OEM bumpstops, Timbren uses superior natural rubber compound ensuring the Active Off-Road Bumpstops will continue to operate even after a lifetime of off-road abuse. Similar to our Timbren SES line, Active Off-Road Bumpstops carry a lifetime warranty and a satisfaction guarantee. I've had these on for 3 years now and they positively improved ride comfort at the limit.

Purchase Front Here

Purchase Rear Here

Spidertrax 1.25" Wheel Spacers

Spidertrax 1.25" thick, 6 on 5.5" bolt circle, 6061T6 aluminum spacers are an easy way of spacing out front and rear axles that run hub-centric wheels (wheels using shank style lug nuts). These are particularly helpful if you are trying to dial in an aggressive fitment on factory wheels. Simply bolt on like a wheel, and off to the trails you go.

Special Note: Follow instructions when installing!

Purchase Spacers Here

PowerStop Z36 Truck/Tow Brake Upgrade Package

The Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Upgrade Kit is recommended for trucks, 4x4s, and SUVs that not only work hard, but play hard as well. This brake pad and rotor kit comes with everything you need, including premium stainless-steel hardware, for an easy, bolt-on installation. The low-dust Ceramic brake pads are reinforced with Carbon-Fiber to provide severe-duty stopping power without sacrificing everyday drivability. These pads are paired with Drilled & Slotted rotors that keep brake temperatures down by maximizing heat dissipation, critical for those long mountain descents. Whether towing a boat or trailer, hauling for the jobsite, or tackling a tough off-road trail, get the easy and affordable, bolt-on performance upgrade with the Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Upgrade Kit.

Purchase Front Here

Purchase Rear Here

Nitto Ridge Grappler 285/75r17

The Ridge Grappler tires by Nitto are engineered for all-terrain performance. They feature a dynamic hybrid tread design for quiet and comfortable rides on roads thanks to their variable pitch tread pattern. The lateral Z grooves and shoulder grooves in varying lengths and widths expel mud and slush for better traction and improve grip for better maneuverability. The step block edges and alternating tapered edges add biting edges for better wet and dry traction.

Purchase Tires Here

Midland MXT-275 MicroMobile

15-Watt MicroMobile is a two-way radio device that operates on GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) frequencies. 15 Hi Power Channels GMRS Channels: 1-7 & 15-22 provide increased range communication over a long range. Its channel scan allows you to search for active channels in the area. Also has a National Weather Alert function with the ability to quickly access weather channels for your area. The MicroMobile is for camping, hunting, and outdoors. Its compact size and easy-to-use interface make it great for communicating on the go. The mic also acts as the control head so remote mounting out of sight is a breeze!

Special Note: You need a GMRS license to transmit. It's easy to file, affordable and will apply to your family.

Purchase Radio Here

Midland T290VP4 Handheld GMRS

These GMRS handheld radios feature a weather-resistant, rugged design. Come standard with the 22 GMRS channels an extra 14 extra privacy channels, and the ability to scan for traffic. They also feature the NOAA weather 10 channels and an alert system for pending weather in your area. These are great to have in the rig for general use: Spotting, Someone Needs a radio, hiking, events/expos/shows, etc. All around a great handheld radio.

Purchase T290VP4 Here

Midland 3db Ghost Antenna

Ghost Antenna: The antenna is a high-performance radio antenna that is designed to enhance the reception of your 462 MHz frequency radio. This antenna is engineered using top-quality materials to provide you with exceptional reliability and durability, making it ideal for use in outdoor environments. Fiberglass construction makes it lightweight and sturdy. MXTA25 3dB gain antenna doubles the signal output—frequency: 462 MHz - Long Range GMRS Communication.

Purchase Antenna Here

Midland 6db Whip Antenna

Signal Output – This 32-inch whip antenna from Midland quadruples signal output. When maximum range is your goal, the Midland MXTA26 6DB gain-whip antenna is the perfect choice

Purchase Antenna Here

Zoleo Satellite Communicator

Global satellite messaging: Stay connected beyond cell coverage, use ZOLEO with your smartphone to transmit text messages and e-mails over the Iridium satellite network, cellular or Wi-Fi using the lowest-cost network available (service plan required)

Purchase Zoleo Here

Baja Design LP9 Pro - White

I have two of these on the front ARB Bumper. Being the "Pro" they have a high/low feature, side-emitting LEDs, and a backlit daytime running light. The light pattern, output, and performance and hands down amazing. They have lived on the front of my build for 3 years now with zero issues. They turn night into day....like seriously I can drive down forest roads in the middle of the night as if it were daytime.

Purchase LP9 Pro Here

Baja Design S2 Sport - Amber

I have two of these on ditch light brackets. The output is great. The amber helps see depth at night and excels in dust/snow/rain. These have been on my build for 3 years now with zero issues.

Purchase S2 Sport Here

Baja Design Squadron SAE - Amber

I have two of these in my front ARB Bumper. They are mounted in the fog light positions with an OEM/ARB fog light bracket. They were plug-and-play and worked with the factory fog-light harness. The amber cuts through the rain, fog, and snow. Huge upgrade over the factory fog lights. These have been in service for 3 years now with zero issues.

Special note: SAE rating means they are road-legal!

Purchase Squardon SAE Here

Baja Design Squadron Sport - White

I have two of these in my Victory 4x4 rear bumper. I use them as a supplemental reverse light or scene lighting when setting up camp at night. These have been on my build for 3 years now with zero issues. The light output is insane!

Purchase Squardon Sport Here

Baja Design Rock Lights - Amber

I have four of these mounted on the Prinsu Designs Roof rack with the optional Prinsu Designs grab handles. I use them for scene lighting around the vehicle at camp or while wheeling. The light output is good for camp...not overpowering. The Amber helps with depth perception and reduces bug attraction. The later is a huge deal while at camp.

Purchase Rock Lights Here

OSRAM D4S Night Breaker Laser

I've had these in the field for about 3 years now. I noticed the factory HID bulbs(Low Beam) were getting dim so I replaced them with these at the time. It was a noticeable output increase and a more modern white light. Zero issues and work flawlessly.

Purchase Low Beams Here

Hikari 9005 LED

I removed the factory halogen headlight bulbs and replaced them with these. The light output is INSANE. At night time on backroads, you can confidently drive without worrying about what animal might be hiding just ahead in the darkness. These have been on the build for 2 years now and have zero issues.

Special Note: You MUST turn off the DRL feature in the menu on your vehicle. The Factory system uses the high beam but at 50% power as a DRL. If you leave that on with these it will flicker like a strobe.

Purchase High Beams Here

Switch Pros SP-9100 8 Switch Panel

Get the control you need over your off-road vehicle’s electronics and lighting with the Switch-Pros SP-9100 power system. One of the most trusted aftermarket switch panels, the SP-9100 is designed to give you one-touch control right in the cab. This versatile system gives you a small control panel to reduce dashboard clutter or interfaces with your supported smart device to give you even more options from your handset screen. Get the most from your aftermarket upgrades with a power control system that’s set the bar for performance.

Purchase SwitchPro Here

RedArc Manager 30

Boasting 30 amps of power output, The Manager30 is a state-of-the-art battery management system designed to charge and maintain auxiliary batteries by incorporating AC, DC and solar inputs.

Purchase Manager 30 Here

ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Fridge/Freezer

The ICECO VL60 has continued to exceed my expectations. It is built to last, has a SECOP compressor, and works perfectly every time even in off-camber situations. It is large enough to hold a week or more of groceries — frozen and/or refrigerated. While it might be a little bit larger than you’d need for short adventures, on longer expeditions/overlanding, you’ll be so glad if you have it along! Oh...did I mention Ice Cream in the middle of nowhere is amazing?!

Purchase Fridge Here

BESTEK 1000w Pure Sine Wave Inverter

This 1000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter with dual USB charging ports is designed for all laptops, digital portables, and household appliances under 1000W such as fans, refrigerators, coffee machines, UAVs, electric saws, etc. Pure Sine Wave Inverters are important to protect your sensitive electronic devices. This particular one has high-quality internal components, 1000 watts of power, thick electrical terminal studs, and was very compact for its output.

Purchase Inverter Here

Garmin Power Switch

This unit just entered my build; so testing is still underway. So far love it. Pairs with both an app and the Garmin Tread XL. Able to control up to 6 devices with two input control triggers(if wanted). Not much to say other than its a breeze to install and functions flawlessly.

Purchase PowerSwitch Here

BlueSeas Fuse Panel

Blue Sea Systems Fuse Block ST Blade Battery Terminal Mount 4 Circuit Kit , part number 5024, allows you to easily add 4 fused circuits to the terminal of a battery. Max Amps: 100A per block, 30A per circuit, Max Volts: 32V DC, Mounting hole: 3/8" (M10) stud, Screw Terminal Torque: 18in-lb, Screw terminal type: #8-32 screws. Mounts on the battery terminal stud and provides power to new accessories in your boat or vehicle. Ignition Protected–meets ISO 8846 and SAE J1171 for use in a gasoline engine compartment. ABYC/USCG compliant insulating cover, 4-circuit negative busbar, write on labels, and four 16-14 AWG and four 12-10 AWG Nylon insulated ring terminals included.

Purchase Fuse Panel Here

BlueSeas Accesory Panel

Water-resistant accessory panel comes with 2x biPre-Wired harness for easy installation in all panels. Silicon breaker boots and gasket protects against water ingress. Illuminated Carling Technologies 15A circuit breaker switch allows the ability to shut off panel preventing parasitic draw. Marine-grade polycarbonate/ABS materials.

Purchase Accesory Panel Here

BlueSeas OLED Volt Meter

Convenient voltage monitoring on a bright, waterproof, daylight readable OLED screen. Monitors 8V to 36V DC. Compact size enables mounting in any convenient location. Reverse polarity protected.

Purchase Volt Meter Here

BlueSeas 12volt Socket

Made of corrosion-resistant materials designed to withstand the rigors of wet environments and constant vibration. Includes a protective dust cap to keep debris and moisture out.

Purchase 12v Socket Here

BlueSeas Circuit Breaker 40amp

Blue Sea Systems 285 Series Circuit Breaker - Surface Mount 40A. The visible reset lever shows an open condition. Weather Resistant Combines switching and circuit breaker functions into one unit. Highly recommend a Circuit Breaker between Start Battery and Manager 30. Also recommend one on hot lead coming from secondary battery.

Purchase Breaker Here

iCrimp Terimal Crimper

I've had this crimper and cutter for 4 years now. I make all of my own cables with it. Adjustable head. Easy to use. Not much to say other than it just works!

Purchase Crimper Here

Quality Wire
(Multiple AWG, Color, and Lengths)

WindyNation's Power-Flex welding and battery cable is a highly flexible industrial grade electrical cable. A high strand cable count combined with a soft, pliable EPDM insulation results in a flexible cable every time. Our cable is resistant to tears, cuts, abrasion, water moisture, and oil based solvents

Purchase Wire Here

iPad Mini

I prefer the iPad Mini due to its size. I used this to run Gaia GPS, Waze, and OnX Offroad. I had mine in service for 3 years with minimal issues. The only issue I experienced was if left in the summer sun it would occasionally go into an overheat protection mode. Usually, 3 mins of AC would fix it, but noteworthy. A few notes: Make sure you get one with cellular. This is due to the cellular models having built-in GPS. Don't worry, you do not need to activate the cellular service. Last note: Get the largest memory you can afford. Map data will add up fast, and Apple memory is not upgradable.

Purchase iPad Here

Garmin Tred XL Overland

This device just made it into my kit. I am still doing testing but so far this is THE device for overland/expedition navigation. 10" ultra bright display, built-in InReach, Offline maps: USFS, Topographic, Garmin OSM, IOverlander, Ultimate Public Campgrounds, Trip Advisor, Fuel, Private/Public Lands, and 3D Terrain. Also, you can run up to 4 Garmin PowerSwitches, track Garmin dog collars, and Garmin Audio units.

Special Note: I have found a way to Sideload 3rd party apps: Currently have Gaia GPS and OnX Offroad installed and function flawlessly.

Purchase Garmin Here

Factor 55 Flatlink (Expert) Red

When off-roading, it is inevitable that you will eventually need to recover a vehicle, and it is essential to have the safest, most effective equipment to aid in the rescue. Factor 55 FlatLink E allows for Closed System Winching, which is simply winching using closed-link hardware, where you aren’t relying on spring-loaded safety clasps that are common in winch hooks. The unique design allows for interfacing with different cables and ropes to recover cars, trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, ATVs, and UTVs.

Purchase Flatlink Here

Factor 55 Offset Fairlead

Factor 55 Hawse Fairleads are the best in the business. They’re CNC machined from thick USA 6000-series aluminum bar and thicker than the industry-standard 0.75" size to extend rope life. Additionally, the slot opening is taller to allow larger ½" tube thimbles to pass through. All Factor 55 Fairleads are coated with a durable MIL-A-8625F TYPE III gunmetal gray hard-anodized finish with a laser-engraved logo. That finish is not a cosmetic thing. The hard coating resists abrasion, damage from extreme side pulls, and is one of the top-five hardest materials known to exist. Plus the low friction coefficient means less wear and tear on your rope. This fairlead was specifically designed for applications with offset openings such as ARB-style bumpers. For synthetic rope only and mounting hardware is not included. Made in the USA. Overall Dimension: 11.75" x 3.4"

Purchase Fairlead Here

MaxTrax MKII Recovery Boards

MAXTRAX MKII is the golden standard of high-quality recovery boards. There is no other product that beats the MKII’s legendary durability, wide color range, innovative mounting options, six glove-friendly handles, and 15-year track record of manufacturing world-class Australian-made innovative products.

Purchase MaxTrax Here

ARB Essentials Recovery Kit

This is a high-quality, rated, essential starter kit. Start here and build as needed! Kit includes: Vehicle recovery strap, tree trunk protector, galvanized shackles, snatch block ultralight, gloves, and upgraded coated cotton canvas recovery bag / Ideal for: Recovery gear, 4x4 off-road accessories, camping, traveling, and more.

Purchase Recovery Kit Here

ARB Dual Air Compressor

The ARB CKMTA12 twin on-board compressor kits were designed specifically as a compact-sized yet high-volume compressed air source to suit the high-volume airflow needs of most air-powered tools, and also to suit the actuation and control needs of the ARB Air Locker and the harsh and demanding environment of the ARB Air Locker user.

Purchase ARB Compressor Here

OVS 270* Awning

This is by far the largest coverage 270* awning on the market. I have the Overland Pros Wraptor 6k awning which is a knockoff of the OVS awning in a different color. Regardless the OVS 270* Awning is amazing. Its freestanding, has legs and guide ropes for when it gets windy, and a nice DWR coating all included. I've had mine on for about 3 years now and it's been rock solid!

Purchase Awning Here