Overland Expo certainly has come a long way since the event’s humble beginnings, with events hosted nationally, namely Overland Expo West, Pacific Northwest, Mountain West, and East. Overland Expo West is closest to home for most of the nomadic Overland International (Expedition Portal and Overland Journal) team, and we have a soft spot for the annual gathering of the tribe high up in the beautiful and rugged landscape of Flagstaff, Arizona. It is not often that we all get together, but this year, most of the crew will be there to answer any questions you may have, dish out some inspiration, and convince you to subscribe to Overland Journal in the highly unlikely event that you have not already. We will be located at Booth Q19, and we will be sitting on round tables, teaching classes, and may even do a presentation (Graeme and Luisa Bell – “Africa to the Arctic, America to Asia, 12 Years on the Road,” Friday from 11:00 to 11:50 at the Storyteller Pavilion).
The Expo, held at Fort Tuthill County Park from May 17 to May 19, 2024, offers a comprehensive experience for attendees looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in overlanding and adventure travel. It’s not all just overland cosplay; this is where enthusiasts, global travelers, experts, and the industry’s big players come to rub shoulders, grab a bite, sip a cold one, and reconnect.
Flagstaff’s high-elevation setting provides a fitting backdrop for this world-class event. Overland Expo West features a unique blend of professional-level trade shows and educational programs, bringing together more than 400 exhibitors and offering over 175 classes designed to equip adventurers of all levels.
The event schedule is packed with activities from early morning to evening, so wear good shoes, hydrate, and find a sunblock that does not attract dust and sweat and turn your eyeballs into red balls of itching pain. Starting each Friday to Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm, attendees can explore a variety of exhibitor booths that showcase the latest in vehicle, motorcycle equipment, and camping gear.
In addition to browsing through the latest gear, attendees can participate in hands-on motorcycle demonstrations (yes, please!) and attend educational sessions covering a wide range of topics, from vehicle maintenance to outdoor survival skills.
One of the highlights of Overland Expo West is its emphasis on practical education. The Expo offers numerous classes taught by leading experts in the field. These sessions are designed to provide in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in areas such as driving, navigation, motorcycle handling, and campsite management.
After hours, the Expo does not slow down as the khaki-clad masses get rowdy with the setting of the sun. There will be happy hour gatherings, and the evenings feature the Overland Expo Film Festival, showcasing a curated selection of films that depict vehicle-based adventures from around the globe.
The Expo is well-prepared to accommodate visitors, with a shuttle system from nearby Northern Arizona University parking lots to the venue, ensuring easy access for all attendees. The onsite camping area is where a lot of the action happens and is an event within an event as it is here that you will find the old timers sharing a camp with the starry-eyed youngsters, handing out excellent advice that will be promptly ignored. C’est la vie.
Don’t forget to visit the Overland Expo website, download the app, and come prepared for four seasons in one day.
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Images: Overland Expo, John Allen
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