Off-road driving and ‘overlanding’ essentials

PHOTOS / DERRICK LIM

Since the beginning of time, man has always strived for survival and to co-exist with nature. Many times, the key to survival would be mobility and travel. With the invention of the automobile, the distance anyone can travel has surely become farther and also easier. Nowadays, 4×4 vehicles are readily available and are the perfect match for adventure seekers. The popularity of outdoor activities, such as off-roading and camping, has opened up a market for gear and products to make these more convenient and comfortable.

“We are promoting this lifestyle for people to get away from the stressful concrete jungle and have a great time. It’s family time away from gadgets and social media.” says Joel Pedro, chief adventure officer of Overland Kings, a shop that specializes in outfitting vehicles with the necessary equipment.

“Overlanding” is a term that originated from Australia. It refers to traveling to remote destinations where the journey itself is part of the experience.

Here are just some of the essential gear and equipment recommended for that next expedition:

1. Shelter

It’s very important to stay safe from the elements. Extreme heat or cold, and rough winds or rain will surely ruin anyone’s day. The most basic shelter would be a tent that would be easy to pitch, and made of weather-proof material but also light and compact when stowed.  There are also awnings that attach to the side of the vehicle with UV rated protection. For the extreme, there are roof-mounted tents that are positioned above the vehicle. A combination of these will be good to create camp.

2. Cooking equipment

Food is the next key to survival. Having a 12-volt portable fridge will keep meat fresh and also your can of beer chilled.  This would just plug-in to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter. Starting a fire is also

easier these days with portable butane-powered burners. Stainless-steel dishes and utensils are more durable, and is a good alternative to using disposable materials.

3. Cargo space

With all the gear you’re taking, you will also need to have them organized and neatly packed.  Roof top cargo baskets and flat racks come in different sizes with the appropriate crossbar roof rail mounts for every type of vehicle. Rear drawers are also installed on pickup beds or inside SUV’s to organize equipment instead of piling bags on top of another.

4. Recovery gear

There will always be that memorable incident of getting your vehicle stuck in the mud. Knowing where your vehicle’s recovery points are a must before getting into deep mud or crossing rivers. A recovery kit usually consists of heavy-duty shackles, snatch straps and snatch blocks. A motorized winch would also be very useful when travelling in groups. Just as essential to having these, is also knowing how to use them safely.

Overland Kings will be showcasing its latest products and gear at the 4×4 EXPO on Sept. 28-29, 2019 at ArcoVia City, Pasig. For more info about Overland Kings, visit their showroom at Km. 15, West Service Road, Paranaque, or follow Overland Kings on Facebook and Instagram.  You may also check their website at www.overlandkingsph.com.