While traveling Alaska’s Dalton Highway with friends, I stopped to take in the beautiful scenery and do some fly fishing. Alas, the river contained no fish, but fortunately, I was still able to employ my favorite fly to snag a real keeper: a single, Kevlar-lined, gauntlet-sporting chainsaw glove. Catch-and-release is not my style, and thus,…
Hasselblad X2D 100C :: Field Tested
When NASA needed a camera to capture Apollo 11’s landing on the moon, they trusted one brand—Hasselblad. Chances are you and I will never get to traverse the Sea of Tranquility or crawl out of a lunar crater, but that shouldn’t stop us from wanting to immortalize our own history in the making. Like the…
Colfax Design Works Q.D. Camera Strap :: Field Tested
Colfax Design Works (CDW) has set a new standard with its latest Q.D. camera strap. Built with rugged 1-inch MIL-SPEC nylon tubular webbing and equipped with the proprietary anti-binding CDW Quick Disconnect swivels, this strap is the epitome of versatility and durability. The intuitive design features a push-top button on the swivel that allows for…
Thinking Outside the Box: The Story Behind STEP 22
In this installment of the Expedition Portal series on brands that inspire us, Senior Editor Ashley Giordano profiles adventure travel gear manufacturer STEP 22. I recently found out, thanks to STEP 22 owner and founder Adam Wood, that the company’s name is an acronym for Storage Transportation Exploration Protection. There couldn’t be a more on-point…
Overland News of the Week
Meet the New KC Hilites Solar Charge Hub This compact, plug-and-play charging solution directs solar panel energy to 12- and 24-volt vehicle batteries for easy charging and maintenance. Requiring no permanent installation, the hub features magnetic feet for easy placement and Bluetooth connectivity for monitoring and updates. At the heart of the hub’s weather-sealed aluminum…
Nissan Unveils Project Trailgater, Built for the Overlanding Sport Enthusiast
As avid Rugby fans, we learned early on that traveling overland will often conflict with important matches and planned weekends away. A difficult choice had to be made: head out or stay home to catch the game. Nissan has unveiled the Project Trailgater, a one-of-a-kind custom build based on the refreshed 2025 Frontier, showcasing a…
In the Bag: Reliable Dry Bags to Keep Your Gear Safe
Whether you’re an intrepid overlander exploring remote locations, an avid adventurer seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, or a beachgoer looking to keep your valuables safe from sand and surf, dry bags have become an indispensable companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Unsurprisingly, these versatile, waterproof wonders have revolutionized how we protect our gear from the elements….
KC Hilites Unveils the Solar Charge Hub: Portable Power for Any Adventure
KC Hilites Solar Charge Hub is a portable, weather-sealed solar charging system designed to power 12-volt battery setups in off-grid environments. This system seems perfect for those who require a rugged and simple solar charging system that offers flexibility and performance in an off-road environment. It may also be perfect for overlanders who outfit their…
Gregory Knocks it Out the Park with Duffels, Case, and Backpacks :: Field Tested
Gregory Mountain Products specializes in designing and manufacturing backpacks, travel bags, and outdoor gear. Founded in 1977 by Wayne Gregory, the brand is known for its focus on comfort, durability, and innovative design. Gregory’s products are built to support outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of packs for hiking, backpacking, and travel. The company emphasizes ergonomic…
Bellman CX25P Stovetop Espresso and Snow Peak Field Barista Coffee Grinder
Photography by Richard Giordano, Lead photo courtesy of Bellman Bellman CX25P Stovetop Espresso and Steamer I have used moka pots in the past with the hope they would deliver the espresso I desired, but that was never the case. This Bellman, on the other hand, produces a flavor and texture very similar to a full…
Nimbus Oleo Pneumatic Shock Absorbers Review – Get Ready for the Flying Carpet Effect
Since converting our Land Rover Defender into a camper in late 2016, I have enjoyed almost everything about it, but mainly the space and comfort afforded for everyday living and camping. What we did not enjoy was the vehicle handling after installing a new suspension kit from the now-defunct Bearmach. Body roll was excessive, and…
iKamper’s New Raconteur Rack Series
iKamper has launched its first roof and bed rack system, the Raconteur Rack Series, designed for outdoor enthusiasts. The Raconteur features a steel frame, stainless steel hardware, chip-resistant powder coatings, and high-strength aluminum cross bars. This new series offers options for popular overlanding vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma, Toyota 4Runner, and Jeep Gladiator. With various…
SUV, Van and Pick-Up Camping Conversion Kits :: Buyers Guide
In recent years, the trend of converting vans and SUVs into mobile living spaces has grown in popularity, driven by the desire for freedom, adventure, and the convenience of having a home on wheels. This surge in interest has led to the rise of van and SUV camping conversion kits—pre-packaged systems that simplify transforming a…
Mystery Ranch :: Field Tested
As overlanders, we aim to travel light and avoid excess gear that can be cumbersome, especially as a family of four where space is always an issue. We truly appreciate well-designed storage solutions and carriers for when we’re out and about, and Mystery Ranch consistently delivers. Mystery Ranch was co-founded by Dana Gleason and Renée…
Overland News of the Week
Pakmule Launches the Motomule Moto Hauler In this week’s, Overland News of the Week, we introduce Pakmule’s Motomule. A motorbike is a great overlanding accessory, but hauling bikes has always been a challenge. The Pakmule Motomule is an innovative hitch-mounted moto hauler designed for the easy loading and transport of dirt bikes and light adventure…
It’s All in the Name: The Story Behind Goose Gear
In this installment of the Expedition Portal series on brands that inspire us, Senior Editor Ashley Giordano profiles overland industry leader and vehicle-based storage solutions manufacturer Goose Gear. It’s easy to notice the quality of a Goose Gear product at a glance. Burly slides hold expertly crafted wood drawers. Marine-grade plywood coated with a proprietary blend of bedliner…
Van DIY Conversion Kits :: Buyers Guide
Vanlife has captured the imagination of many overlanders driven by the desire to have their cake and eat it, too. While many overlanders enjoy the simple, minimalist experience of living out of a compact 4WD, there is a growing trend toward the comforts of home while having the capability to explore far reaches of the…
Getting Unstuck: Recovery Items to Keep You Moving
Okay, let’s be honest. Just because I’ve been driving four-wheel drive vehicles for 50 years and just because I’ve covered most of the major four-wheel-drive events in the United States (including numerous trips over the Rubicon Trail, the Jeepers Jamboree, All 4-Fun, Sierra Trek, and Moab’s Easter Jeep Safari), I am not a “four-wheeler.” Getting…
The Inflatable POD-01 Tent by EXØD Might Be the Camp Solution You Have Been Waiting For
Thanks to the evolution of material technology, inflatable outdoor equipment is becoming more practical for short- and long-term overland travel applications. The POD-01 by EXØD represents a novel approach to portable outdoor living, blending advanced kite-surfing technology with the practical needs of a temporary shelter. Designed for up to four occupants, the POD-01 weighs a…
Overland News of the Week
Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield In this week’s Overland News of the Week, we’re excited to share the news that Snow Peak recently established the Long Beach Campfield between Seattle and Portland, along Washington State’s Long Beach Peninsula. This 25-acre luxury campground redefines outdoor leisure while offering a unique camping experience. The campfield offers three…