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Overland News of the Week

Alu-Cab Announces Release of ModCap Family Camper and ModCap Kitchen

In this week’s Overland News of the Week, Alu-Cab announced the release of the ModCap Family Camper, designed to accommodate up to four adults. The camper features a side-opening design and internal access to the tent, offering versatility and compatibility with any ModCap base. Alu-Cab also introduced the ModCap Kitchen, a slimline storage and prep space for outdoor cooking. Available in both basic and deluxe versions, the ModCap family camper and kitchen are now available for pre-order, with shipments expected before Christmas 2024.

alu-cab.com

The New Vitaloop FlexGuard Water Filter is Ideal for the Outdoors

The Vitaloop FlexGuard is a portable water filtration bottle designed to purify water from any source within 45 seconds. It uses advanced multi-stage filtration, removing up to 99.9999% of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and microplastics, while preserving essential minerals. The bottle is powered by a rechargeable 2,000 milliampere-hour battery, which can purify up to 50 liters per charge. With a capacity of 16.23 fluid ounces and an automatic pump system, it ensures easy and safe hydration for outdoor adventurers and travelers. Its durable, BPA-free design includes a separation system to keep clean and dirty water apart.

$190 | vita-loop.com

The Updated Danner Jag II is Available for Both Men and Women

The Danner Jag II is a retro-inspired hiking boot originally launched in the 1980s, now updated for modern versatility. Lightweight and durable, it features a waterproof Danner dry liner for wet conditions and a breathable mesh for warmer climates. Its EVA midsole and waffle outsole provide comfort and grip on varied terrain, while the Ortholite footbed enhances cushioning. Designed for both trail use and urban environments and available for both men and women, the Jag combines full-grain leather and nylon for a stylish, vintage look with contemporary performance, making it suitable for all-day wear.

$180 | danner.com

The TentBox Go Rooftop Tent is Lightweight and Affordable

The TentBox Go is a lightweight rooftop tent designed for easy use and portability. Weighing only 73 pounds, it is the lightest in TentBox’s range, making it suitable for most vehicles. It comfortably sleeps two people on a fabric bed base and includes a telescopic ladder for easy access. Once installed, setup takes just 60 seconds, and the tent is equipped with a skylight for stargazing, bug-proof mesh, and storage pockets. It’s rated for all four seasons and claims it can handle winds up to 39 mph.

$1,200 | tentbox.com

ETA Required for Visa-Free Travel to the UK by April 2025

The UK government is expanding its digital travel system by requiring all visitors who do not need a visa to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by April 2025. The ETA will be digitally linked to travelers’ passports, allowing for enhanced security checks before travel. Visitors will be able to use the ETA for multiple trips over two years, with each visit lasting up to six months. The ETA will cost £10 and aims to streamline the border process, similar to systems in place in the US and Australia.

gov.uk

The Cool Boss Coolee is a 3 in 1 Cooler

The Coolee CL-50R is a portable ice chest that doubles as an air cooler and Bluetooth speaker. It features multi-directional air nozzles for cooling, a 50-quart storage capacity for beverages and snacks, and premium Bluetooth stereo speakers. The device is powered by dual rechargeable 10,000 milliampere-hour batteries, with additional solar panels for eco-friendly recharging. With oversized wheels, a telescoping handle, and cup holders, it’s designed for convenience and mobility. Additional features include a touch panel, remote control, and a built-in bottle opener.

$575 | coolboss.com

The Cot One Max Convertible is a Lightweight Camping Cot

The Helinox Cot Max Convertible is a portable camping cot designed for larger campers. It offers extra length and width compared to standard cots and features a durable DAC aluminum frame and a tensioning system that provides a stable and sag-free sleeping surface. Weighing just over 6 pounds, it is compact and easy to transport, packing down into a small carrying case. The cot can support up to 320 pounds, and optional leg extensions can raise it from 6.5 inches to 15 inches off the ground.

$480 | helinox.com

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is Accepting Applications

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) program promotes the responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) while protecting public land access. Since its inception in 2008, the initiative has provided over $6 million in grants across more than 470 projects. These grants fund activities like trail maintenance, signage, land conservation, and educational programs, ensuring outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy sustainable recreation. Applications are accepted quarterly from non-profit or tax-exempt groups (clubs and associations), public riding areas (local, state, and federal), outdoor enthusiast associations, land conservation organizations, and communities.

yamaha.com

The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Offers Photo and Voice Messaging

The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is a satellite communicator designed to keep users connected in areas without cell service. When paired with a smartphone, it enables texting, sending photos, voice messages, and SOS alerts through satellite networks. Compact and rugged, it offers real-time GPS tracking and location sharing. The device is ideal for outdoor adventurers, providing essential communication for emergencies or routine updates.

$500 | garmin.com

The 1620 Foundation Full Zip Hoodie

The 1620 Foundation Full Zip Hoodie is a durable, American-made workwear piece designed for both comfort and functionality, ideal for overlanders. It features a high-neck design, a hard-hat-compatible oversized hood, and gusseted underarms for better movement. Made from heavyweight fleece with water-repellent properties, the hoodie includes a YKK reverse coil zipper, reinforced front panels, and device pockets, providing practicality for everyday work and long-lasting performance.

$138 | 1620usa.com

Fenix Launches the HM23 V2 Headlamp

The Fenix HM23 V2 is a compact, lightweight headlamp powered by a single AA battery, designed for outdoor activities. It delivers a maximum output of 240 lumens and offers three brightness levels to adapt to various conditions. The headlamp is IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, ensuring durability in harsh environments. It features a 60-degree tilt mechanism for adjustable lighting angles, a comfortable, breathable headband, and a simple, single-switch operation.

$37 | fenixlighting.com

Thor Industries Unveils The World’s First Hybrid Class A Motorhome

Thor Industries recently unveiled “the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome,” the Thor Test Vehicle, built on an electric vehicle (EV) platform developed in collaboration with Harbinger. The vehicle features a 140-kilowatt battery pack, a low-emissions gasoline range extender, and solar panels, offering a 500-mile range. This hybrid system, designed to meet RV-specific needs, allows rapid charging and can be powered at campsites or off-grid. The platform also offers advanced driving and safety features. Thor plans to commercially release hybrid RVs in 2025, expected to qualify as near-zero emission vehicles (NZEV). Pricing has not yet been confirmed.

thorindustries.com

Hellwig Introduces New Sway Bar For Fourth-Generation Toyota Tacoma

Hellwig Suspension Products has introduced a new rear sway bar for coil-spring Toyota Tacoma models. Designed for increased comfort and stability, the sway bar offers greater stiffness than the factory model, reducing body roll and improving handling during daily driving, off-roading, or towing. Made from 4140 chromoly steel with a powder-coated finish, the sway bar uses factory end links and includes polyurethane bushings and hardware for easy installation.

From $465 | hellwig.com

LandTrust Field Notes

LandTrust, an online marketplace for booking outdoor experiences on private lands, has launched LandTrust Field Notes, a social feed that connects outdoor enthusiasts. This tool provides real-time updates from landowners, offering insights into hunting grounds, fishing spots, and more. Users can follow properties and view updates, photos, and reviews, helping them stay informed about potential trips. Field Notes also allows users to discover new outdoor experiences and plan adventures with friends or family. It serves as a powerful tool for monitoring conditions and scouting ideal times for outdoor activities on private lands across the country.

landtrust.com

Milwaukee Announces Expansion Of The M18 Rover Lighting Lineup

Milwaukee has announced the expansion of its M18 Rover lighting lineup, launching three new products in September 2024, namely the M18 Rover Compact Folding Flood Light with USB Charging, the M18 Rover Clamping Flood Light, and the M18 Rover Dual Power Triple-Panel Flood and Area Light. These versatile, portable lights are designed for tough conditions and offer high output with Trueview high-definition lighting. Each model features adjustable lighting modes, rugged durability, and mounting options and is fully compatible with the M18 battery system.

From $79/folding flood light, From $180/triple-panel flood and area light | Milwaukee.com

Read More: SUV, Van and Pick-Up Camping Conversion Kits :: Buyers Guide

Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.

Graeme Bell is an author and explorer who has dedicated his life to traveling the planet by land, seeking adventure and unique experiences. Together with his wife and two children, Graeme has spent the last decade living permanently on the road in a self-built Land Rover based camper. They have explored 27 African countries (including West Africa), circumnavigated South America, and driven from Argentina to Alaska, which was followed by an exploration of Europe and Western Asia before returning to explore the Americas. Graeme is the Senior Editor 4WD for Expedition Portal, a member of the Explorers Club, the author of six books, and an Overland Journal contributor since 2015. You can follow Graeme's adventures across the globe on Instagram at graeme.r.bell