Back in the early ’80s, the automotive industry was responding to consumer demands for compact sport utility vehicles capable of tackling the backcountry with same moxie as their forebearers. Jeep answered the call in 1984 with the Cherokee XJ, which took its cues from the venerable Wagoneer. Though not immediately embraced by the off-road world due to its uniframe construction,…

Whether you go by way of truck, motorcycle, or even on foot, going alone takes careful planning.

Colossal has always been about expansive views and the enjoyment of nature both on the trail and back at camp each night. It is not the trip to sign up for if you’re after bragging rights for the most technical trail, or sheer mental exhaustion after navigating a full day’s worth of California rock. As much as I love and…

As an automotive enthusiast, one of the things I look forward to each year is reviewing and driving the new crop of vehicles. Manufacturers continue to up the ante with regard to performance, capability, fuel economy, navigation systems, electronics, and creature comforts. While first public appearance usually takes place at one of the big auto shows—New York, Los Angeles, or…

With the beginning of the new year, you’re bound to hear plenty of talk concerning resolutions. People will be hitting the gyms, kicking bad habits, and posting lists of goals and dreams on their refrigerator doors. We think this season of positive change is a beautiful thing, which is why we’ve decided to join in the spirit of self-improvement by…

If you’re into overlanding, chances are that you’re familiar with Expedition Overland. Their action-packed YouTube videos have kept enthusiasts hooked since their initial release in 2011, and have inspired many people, myself included, to venture out into the beautiful world around them. But besides their epic trips through North, Central, and South America, which you should really check out here, their team…

Two FJ Cruisers take on a journey from San Diego to the Arctic Circle

In the vast world of so-called humanitarian organizations and NGOs that promise to save the world, several of us at Overland Journal have been blessed with the hands-on opportunity to work with one that puts the ox before the cart: the California-based Free Wheelchair Mission (FWM). What began as one man’s spiritual conviction to help those in need, FWM (a…

I think we can all agree nothing beats a warm fire on a cool night with a tasty beverage and a comfortable place to sit. I’ve tried all manner of camp chairs over the years, some good, many not worth the materials they’re made of. In the last few months I’ve come to love two chairs in particular and as…

If you’ve seen our home page in the last month, you may have noticed that we published our holiday gift guide a little differently this year. Instead of lumping gifts of every size and shape into one article, we separated them into three distinct categories, one for every budget. Our first guide covered cool gear under $125, perfect items for…

When foul weather forces me within the safe haven of a tent, nothing is more precious than a cavernous vestibule. With the passing of every wet minute, each inch of dry space is called upon to stash gear and makes for the ideal place to prepare meals or just stretch out. As useful as a big tent porch is, not…

When the Wrangler made its début in 1987 as the YJ, Jeep purists poked fun at Jeep’s new prodigy, casting derogatory insults such as “Yuppie Jeep” and “Real Jeeps have round headlights.” While I agree with them regarding round headlamps, the YJ retained the DNA of its venerable predecessors in the CJ lineup. It had solid axles, a reliable 6-cylinder…

Cinematographer Bruce Dorn shares his obsession for African megafauna that will not only kill you, but also eat you. Bon appétit!

The staff at Expedition Portal enjoy a bit of plinking now and then, and we know a lot of you do as well. Whether it’s teaching your kids the basics of knocking down tin cans with a .22 rifle, or getting ready for hunting season with your buddies, a little target shooting while at camp can be a fun hobby….

We answer the question few dare to even ask: Which spork reigns supreme?

Over the last few years, the 5th-generation 4Runner has become one of the most popular four-wheel drives in the overland segment, and it’s not hard to understand why. They are capable, reliable, relatively affordable, and easy to modify, making them perfect for both new enthusiasts and experienced travelers alike. But recently, we’ve noticed a growing problem. With so many 4runners…

Determined to vet the reliability and performance of a modern Land Rover, Overland Journal secures a 2012 LR4 and modifies it for serious exploration.

Ah yes, the holiday season is finally upon us. That special time of year where families and friends come together, communities are filled joy, love, and charity, and we eat all the fattening foods we know we shouldn’t. It’s also when most of us are faced with one of the year’s most dreaded tasks: choosing the perfect gifts. Well, fret…

$20,000, cash on the barrel to keep our backcountry trails open for all.

If finding a clean Defender 130 for under $100,000 in the United States is difficult, finding one with a professionally installed V8 and matching drivetrain is nearly impossible. Yet they do show up every now and then, and we recently stumbled upon this great example in the for sale section of our forums. It’s a 1985 high-capacity pickup imported from…