How To Start Overlanding On a Budget - A Beginner's Guide to Overland Adventure!

[@BenStinnett]

Are you thinking about getting out and doing some overlanding? Let me know if you have questions or want to see me cover something else!

[@vimy]

There can never be enough gear walk through talks. Would be fun to see how you plan a trip, what sites you use, what you consider in the plan. Trail meal videos. Driving technique on different terrains might also be cool. Also just love driving shots. Keep it up Ben!

[@ritas3177]

I would like an overlanding for Dummies... me....I would love to do this with my gang but have no idea where to start. Already into dispersed camping in NM

[@BenStinnett]

Sounds like you're already halfway there! I'll definitely keep making the kinds of videos I would've loved when I first started out! There's a ton of awesome places in NM to get out and explore. Lincoln National Forest and the Gila Wilderness come to mind! If you haven't already, you should check out Lifestyle Overland here on youtube for some great content from NM!

[@ritas3177]

Ben Stinnett thank you

[@telephoneguru9504]

Good job! Actually camping over landing should be very basic not too complicate! In the Wild West a horse, water, food, and a blanket could do it!

[@Carramrod4158]

Just started looking into Overlanding. Nice to hear a perspective from someone who doesn't have a million sponsors to pay for the rig and all the gear. Awesome video

[@BenStinnett]

Glad it was helpful! I felt exactly the same way when I was just getting started. I decided to just start with the gear and vehicle I had, and over time I've been able to save money and build up the 4Runner to what it is today!

[@crazeeaz]

Ben: the best vehicle for overlanding is the one you already have. Me: eyes Prius.

[@rocfilms1986]

Me: *eyes nothing since i dont have a vehicle*

[@brightideaint]

www.tfloffroad.com/2020/04/off-road-toyota-prius-only-in-japan/

[@AlexisChateau]

I've actually seen videos of people overlanding, camping and living in the Prius. It's considered one of the ideal vehicles for car living. ☺️

[@mjolnirplissken7032]

i'm over here in my '04 corolla brainstorming possibilities for my 2000w inverter and deep cycle battery installation.

[@rogerdeoliveira6749]

LMAO i was going to comment the same joke but I have a Fiat 500 Abarth.....ummmm

[@captaincake4331]

Before I purchased my truck I rocked a Scion TC 6 speed all through the mountains and crazy forest roads and even slept in that thing as a 6' tall chubby dude. You can go to more places than you think!

[@BenStinnett]

Thank you so much for this comment man! That’s exactly what I’m trying to get across to folks! Yeah, now days I’ve got the 4Runner and I’ve spent the money to build it up a bit, but before this I was in a 5 speed Chevy cobalt sleeping in a Coleman tent! The best way to start is just to get out there and do it!

[@saginawdan]

I've watched hundreds of videos about this subject. Your presentation is one of the best. Clear, concise, and mellow. Keep it going, you'll find a base of loyal subscribers, like me!

[@BenStinnett]

Wow, thanks Daniel! I appreciate the kind words! Glad to have you here man!

[@raylatimer7851]

Thumbs up for "the best vehicle is the one you already have"

[@saginawdan]

I'm the perfect example. I own a 2000 AWD Bravada that I used for winter driving. Naturally, I figured I needed something better (and cooler😎) for overlanding. After months of Craigslist shopping, I thought F it I'm going to use the Bravada. I'm glad I did. New AT tires, suspension, DYI roof rack, sleeping platform and it's ready to go. I'm not going rock crawling, I'm just using it to get away from the crowds, and I couldn't be happier. I saved thousands of dollars going this route. Now all I have to do is avoid Craigslist.😂

[@anthonycoffey816]

Except the one I have is a 1997 Tahoe with a transmission falling out of it 😅

[@allthehardtimes]

Well......08 crown vic DOHHHH

[@captaindrywall]

That’s it I’m turning it off I’m tired of being deafened by that music

[@xORLOCKx]

Yeah dont think my Honda prelude is gonna cut it

[@joaorosavisuals]

Dude I stoped this at minute 5 just to write down how well you explain stuff and how natural it all looks! Nicely done, keep it up!

[@BenStinnett]

Wow, thanks! I really appreciate the kind words. Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like to see for future videos!

[@stephenwells2464]

Feeling inspired, gonna order some KO2s for the Honda Fit this afternoon 😂

[@BenStinnett]

Now we're talking! Lol

[@Sig721Tau]

Hey, Stephen. A guy in the comments section post a link to TFLs article of a Toyota Prius lifted with KO2 style tires.

[@zay4president537]

🤣😂😅

[@Shafiq1969]

This has to be the best beginners guide to overlanding I have seen so far. The best bit was right at the beginning when Ben said, ‘The best vehicle for overlanding is the vehicle you already have”. Great! Very realistic content and extremely useful information. We all get carried away with wanting to build or buy these mega overlanding vehicles when in reality you can travel the entire globe in a small car. It may not be comfortable or very practical but you can achieve many goals. Thanks for making these videos Ben.

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks so much! It's definitely easy to get caught up in feeling like I need to own the latest and greatest piece of gear, but really it's just about getting out there and exploring!

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

Evening 🙋‍♂️, I've been 4×4 offloading over 45 years now and have had many variations of Rigs. My current is a 02 Montero Sport. Relatively stock Mechanically. I'm keeping it that way in the name of reliability. I keep second guessing myself, but in reality I don't need the bells/whistles to enjoy the trip🤷‍♂️. They would be great,,, but budget is the factor. Safe travels, G.

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Gabriel! Hard to go wrong with a stock Montero! It can always be tempting to spend the money on the gadgets and bells and whistles, but I'm sure you know that you can have some great off-road adventures without all of those! Keep exploring!

[@thebigempty_5792]

I'll chime in with my 2 cents: The FIRST thought on ALL purchases/upgrades is to answer one question first: What problem/s does buying this item solve. If you want it just because of the "cool" factor, then fine. Just be HONEST about it. All this stuff/gear is EXPENSIVE and most have to make choices between one item or another. A top quality A/T tire is not as glamorous as a frig/freezer and sometimes the expensive stuff will never be seen. (suspension/maintenance items). The more problems an item solves, it's easier to warrant the purchase. RTT are nice and I've owned a Tepui (now sold), but for just me it was cumbersome to set up. Fortunately I broke even on the deal. I now use a Gazelle T4 tent. 2K vs. 300.00. that's 1700.00 to invest elsewhere in my rig. You get the idea.

[@BenStinnett]

That's some great advice! I really try to tell people that there's no "required" list of vehicle upgrades or camping gear. It all comes down to individual needs and where you want to spend the money! Your RTT example is a great one, and another common one I see is the coleman cooler vs a fridge. Both get the job done but at drastically different price points (but one gets you ice cream! 😂). Thanks for watching!

[@rangerdoc1029]

Good enough is good enough.

[@PIZOtv]

I'm just now tinkering with my 01 4runner, not ready to start messing with my 19 Tacoma, thanks for the info and suggestions!

[@Jacxdy]

Hey Pizo

[@exploreroverlandadventure2961]

Just wanted to let you know that this video (and others you have) and you was one reason I decided to go on our first Dispersed camping trip (just got back) and more importantly, the reason I decided to do a wheel and tire upgrade for our 2014 Ford Explorer Sport. I will recommend this video and your channel to everyone. I had such a great experience that I decided to create a KZbin channel (Explorer Overland Adventure) to share it with the overland community. FYI. I purchased one of the books you recommended using the links you provided. Thanks again

[@alsims8280]

Good points about using the things you have so that you get going, then figure out where you need to adapt. You're doing all the newbies a service they don't realize the value of. Great job!

[@BenStinnett]

Yes! Thank you! The only important thing is getting out there and figuring out what works for YOU!

[@JevenDovey]

Time to start building out my rig! Lets go on a overland trip soon. My Jeep is itching to get out there

[@BenStinnett]

Yes let's do it! 🙌

[@Irish_Hooligan]

I would really recommend keeping fluids (coolant, washer fluid, oil etc) in the back, along with some spare parts and tools. Don't have to be a master mechanic, but if you get to know your vehicle and make sure to know the basics of how to fix some common issues you would typically face during an off-road situation, it would help you. Typically any trip your going where your not 100% familiar or even if you are it would be useful to have spare items.

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Khali, such a good point. Knowing your vehicle’s common issues and common repairs, along with having some spare parts and fluids (and the tools required) can definitely help turnaround a bad situation out on the trail.

[@chicohum1606]

@@BenStinnett I would maybe add an extra 5 gal gas container in event you go off-roading somewhere not near a gas station, i.e. baja, as part of the Recovery Gear.

[@peetfj]

Along with a good roll of Gorilla tape.

[@PerkHopper]

Ok, Hear me out. I have a Dodge Grand Caravan. We converted it into a campervan but just decided to add a 3" lift kit and KO2s. Obviously this is to do very basic beginning off roading. Once we gain some knowledge and experience then we may trade it in for a used 4WD vehicle, but hopefully the DGC will get it done in the meantime. Thank you for this video, so so helpful!

[@BenStinnett]

You’ve got this, Christy! Sounds like the Grand Caravan is a great starting point! Let me know if you’ve got any questions I can help with!

[@therichphantom]

I don’t typically comment on videos but I was thoroughly impressed by your video. Well spoken, solid information ranging from basics to advanced stuff. Subscribed to learn more as I embark on my overlanding evolution. Thanks for the great info!

[@BenStinnett]

I really appreciate that, Richard! Thanks for the subscribing! Let me know if there's anything in particular you're interested in learning more about!

[@Wazimulife]

Great video! And we agree, it’s all about preparation, and knowledge! Suck it up! Everyone knows something we don’t so I try and listen as much as possible! See you out there when we finish our build!

[@BenStinnett]

Good luck with the build! We’ll see you out there!

[@ismnation]

When I bought my 2008 FJ Cruiser in 2011 I did not realize what I really wanted to do with it other than go through snow in WI. I moved to Colorado in 2014 AND OMG it was amazing! It's fun to know that I did the right things on my conversion, tires, rock sliders, Steel bumpers/winch, recovery gear, ARB Air compressor mounted under the hood, skid plates, Tepui Roof top tent, CB Radio....Looking up the fridge you mentioned but my Yeti collection might feel threatened! Nice job Ben!

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Jeff! Sounds like you've got such a solid build! Thanks for watching!

[@shochikubai8084]

Well organized and great presentation. Helpful tips n ideas to start overlanding. Thank you for this video.

[@GPosner8]

Thank you! There are so many channels that almost deter people from going out because their rigs are so over modified. Great to see someone willing to take the novice by the hand and answer all the questions that pop up. Cheers👍

[@BenStinnett]

Glad to help! The only important part is getting out there and exploring!

[@UtahNick71]

Got my 2020 TRD Pro about a month ago. I have lots of trips planned. 5 days after trading in my Rubicon, I went on my trip to Moab. My Rubicon was built for this trip. I'm not going to do many suspension mods. Got some Shrockworks steps and building out the inside for sleeping inside the 4R.

[@BenStinnett]

That sounds like a great way to do it! Good luck with the build! I hope it brings you many great adventures!

[@OldsoulKilljoy]

I love the advice about knowing the capabilities of your vehicle. I would add to also learn the capabilities of your driving. About four months after getting my small 2 wheel drive jetta half way up a mountain trail. (It was not where I intended to end up there, I was just taking a quick drive after work.) I was glad that not only did I know how to listen to my car when it was telling me it was struggling but I knew how to keep my self from getting stuck in the deep mud patches. After I got back down off the mountain I heard from a friend who went up the next day that his very capable rig got stuck part way up.

[@BenStinnett]

That's a great point, and definitely worth keeping in mind! Both you and your vehicles have limits on their capabilities, knowing when it's safe to push those limits and when it's better back down is a skill worth having!

[@jajab00r]

Thank you Ben! Am exactly at the same starting point as you describe in the video, the biggest challenge being which trail to pick. I can’t thank you enough for the video!!

[@BenStinnett]

You can do it! Glad I could help out a bit. Good luck!

[@LuisRodriguez-71]

Been wanting to start overlanding. I've been stressing for all the reasons you mentioned, so thanks I am the exact person this video is for.

[@BenStinnett]

Glad to hear it Luis! Thanks for checking the video out, good luck!

[@RussBlumenthal]

Some good information for sure! I have the budget traction boards (X-Bull), and I can say first hand that they certainly help. Was actually stuck on a beach a couple weeks ago and before I got winched out, I used the boards under my tires and they definitely helped start moving.

[@BenStinnett]

Right on Russ! Glad to hear they worked for you!

[@coltoncleveringa8004]

Fantastic informative video man. I’m saving up for a power wagon to run for overlanding with my wife and kids. So trying to learn all I can before I get the truck. Very helpful video! Definitely subscribed!

[@BenStinnett]

Right on! Thanks Colton!

[@J.Young808]

Please work on your volume levels. Watching with headphones the music title pages blast my eardrums

[@BenStinnett]

Ah shoot. I'm sorry man. Definitely learning as I go and trying to get better with each video! I'll work on it for sure!

[@onapilgrimage]

However, you sir, just got yourself another subscriber from this video.

[@12pawsinn]

Agreed. Amazing content. Just the loud music in between sections. Subbed myself. Trucking north America

[@antoncrowley7342]

Love this video! I really like the way you speak and articulate and give options and opinions, but the volume level change is in need of adjusting. I measured a minimum of 20db difference. Aside from that its a great video and I really think you have a future in this genre, good luck...subscribed.

[@AudiomateYVR]

Hey Ben, let me know if you need any help. I work with audio!

[@fbswampfox]

More power puller with synthetic line, tow straps and shackles, hi lift jack with accessories, bottle jack, recovery boards and the rubber blocks that strap to your tires. A good shovel, ax and saw. If I get stuck it’s because I deserve it

[@BenStinnett]

Sounds like you a ready for anything man! Good stuff!

[@gafandahalf]

😂😂

[@johnkidnay2413]

Very informative video. Been off road camping for many years and love those fire break roads all over the country just using my pick up truck and a tent. Noticed one thing that you never mentioned that I would consider to be highly essential and that is a FIRST AID KIT. I wouldn't go out without one,

[@BenStinnett]

That's a great point! Working on a whole separate video about first aid and why it's so important! Thanks John!

[@johnkidnay2413]

@@BenStinnett Thanksk Ben, . I'd emphasize for them to read the manual inside the kit or better yet take a first aid course. I'd also add that they should take an inventory and tape it on the inside cover so that as they use items they can replace it. Over 50 years of camping with my wife and my grandson loves camping off road also. Enjoy life and BE SAFE!

[@virgilebarnes7096]

I really want to get into Overlanding, being on hiking trips but certainly this is something different. This video helps a lot.

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Virgile! Sounds like you've got the outdoors experience to get started with a solid foundation! Good luck!

[@hadynmcloughlin4661]

For someone new to the channel and just stating out converting my Subaru to a light off roader this is perfect. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@BenStinnett]

Welcome aboard! Thanks for being here! Take that subie and get out and explore somewhere!

[@sburkey1]

Still one of my favorite videos on KZbin. Thank you for the pragmatic approach.

[@ThatOneDudeNick]

I started in a 2-door Nissan Altima. Threw some good tires on it and drove carefully. You still can go a lot of cool places and get away from crowds without 4WD or high clearance. Tons of "good enough" dirt roads here in the desert. Obviously I wasn't doing anything too technical, and it took some extra research before trips, but I got out there enough try it out before making a bigger investment. No fridge and solar needed, just a cooler. No Rooftop tent, just a ground tent. No camp kitchen, just a propane stove and my dishes from home. I've got a pretty sweet truck setup nowadays, but I only learned what I liked and wanted by getting out there in the car I already had.

[@BenStinnett]

That’s what I’m talking about! Thanks for the comment 🙌 it’s all about getting out there and doing it so you can learn, and you don’t need some huge investment in gear just to get started!

[@charizardxj6653]

01 2wd lifted XJ on 33×12.50r15 with an ARB winch bumper and that's holding a 9k winch. A 3 person tent and a cold weather sleeping bag. Fire starters and some pots and pans for some camp fire cooking

[@BenStinnett]

Sounds like you're setup with a sweet rig Shad!

[@nephimcknight5832]

Got a 97 4runner I'm doing suspension on right now and I'll be doing my first trails in a couple weekends from now - great video!

[@BenStinnett]

Stoked for you man! Get out there and make it happen! Hit me up if I can help at all!

[@JmanSR5]

I really appreciated the content in this video. I am currently unemployed, newly single after a 10 year relationship, and am currently outfitting my rig. Thank you for breaking "getting started" down so simply to just doing it.

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Sarge, you sound like you're right where I was when I got started. Things get better, keep your head up brother.

[@nscwcrft99]

Great video Ben. I love the fact you take all the bull out of vehicle ownership and strip it down to the essentials of what you need. As you rightly infer, it's all about getting out in the outdoors, enjoying nature and leaving no trace of your passing. As Bear Grylls says "Food, fire, water, shelter". Nail them and you're sorted.

[@BenStinnett]

I appreciate it! Thanks for watching!

[@KRTLyfe]

Great video, getting ready for our first adventure compared this to my list to make sure I didn’t miss any basics! Thanks

[@BenStinnett]

Great to hear! Have a blast man!

[@Jessetheoutdoorman]

For cold food storage I highly recommend the lifetime 55L cooler, I just came back from a 5-day overlanding trip in the Eastern Sierra, we started in the Mojave Desert and ended up in the Mammoth lakes area. The ice held the entire time, $100 at wal-mart.

[@BenStinnett]

Wow! That's a great budget tip! I will check it out! How was the Mammoth area? Still pretty cold?

[@Jessetheoutdoorman]

@@BenStinnett Yes it was pretty chilly and windy. Overnight temps dipped below freezing. My water jug partially froze over.

[@billybob7767]

my 4runner is physically ready. air mattress was my first upgrade, but definitely need my jack, jerry cans, roof rack, winch, and much much more before I feel good about being out for the full weekend lol

[@BenStinnett]

Good stuff! Sounds like you're well on your way to some serious adventure!

[@lifeincorncountry8423]

Great job! This is super refreshing to hear. There's so much overpriced hype out there if you're new to the 4wd thing. I'm just having a ton of fun just out on forest roads finding primitive dispersed camping with my stock Tacoma 4wd. I haven't needed much yet that I didn't already have. We found a good quality tent (ours is made by Kelty) that you can stand up in with a couple of cots for my wife and I works super well. I have made a ton of notes on adding to my recovery gear though and hope to upgrade tires soon. Thanks for a great video.

[@BenStinnett]

That's great to hear! Get out and do some exploring with what you've already got!

[@lunamaria1048]

I started in my mother's Rav4, using a cheap foam cooler lol and a ground tent that was a nightmare. My parents bought me an FJ Cruiser just before I turned 17, and it changed the game lol. Now I'm 28, have a great career and own a very modded 2019 4Runner TRD Off Road! To start overlanding you just need a vehicle, food/water and a destination that doesn't exceed the capabilities of your vehicle. That is totally it. You don't even need a 4x4! If you have an SUV or van with fold down seats, you can sleep in your rig. There are affordable self inflating air mattress with memory foam that go in easy to store bags when not in use. Just get out there!

[@BenStinnett]

YES 🙌 you are so right, this is exactly what I try to tell people who are just starting out. Thanks for the comment!

[@lunamaria1048]

@@BenStinnett Typo. I have a 2019 4Runner, not a 2015! I love seeing a genuine KZbinr giving people solid advice to just get out there, rather than trying to convince them that they need all these fancy parts "5% off, if you use the link in the description" I'm tired of every once good overland KZbinr now just uploading 25 minute plugs, where every scene is trying to sell me sponsored products. So your video was refreshing and earned a like and subscriber! I'll check out more of your videos now that i'm home!

[@rickeyuson2731]

I just bought a 2014 Toyota Tundra CrewMax as my new beater last week. I, soon after, discovered your video and I’m excited to try it

[@BenStinnett]

Oh sounds like you've got some great adventures ahead of you! Can't go wrong with the Tundra!

[@totallyawesome80s55]

Thanks for the "I, Overlander" suggestion. It's an incredible resource!

[@BenStinnett]

It’s the best, right? I have found so many great spots that way!

[@andrew5916]

hey man thanks for taking time to make this video ,, it will help get folks out there to enjoy this awesome planet we live on, i have a 1989 suburban that i have built just to do this kind of thing ,, its fully locked with just a 4 inch lift and 33s will go just about anywhere if it will fit ,, so these vehicles are out there for sale ,, you don't have to spend a fortune ..have fun folks happy overlanding,, and this guy gives perfect tips,,!!

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks for the comment Andrew! Sounds like you're well equipt to do some exploring!

[@goopeyful]

Awesome video brother! I've been wanting to convert my toyota highlander to be able to overland. I had no idea where to start, but you've pointed me in the right direction! keep up the great work

[@rfjohns1]

I think a battery charger / car starter and jumper cable are great peace of mind items also :). Great video, makes starting seem much more doable!

[@BenStinnett]

Ah that's definitely true! Great point!

[@ericchapelle9411]

thanks for simplifying for those of us not made of money and newer to things! Appreciate your content!

[@floydfox585]

I've been vehicle camping for many years -- long before the term "over-lander" was coined. I have camped using many different vehicles, including my Chevy Malibu on department of forest, BLM, desert, and mining roads in nearly every area of the country that had them. I also have gone to Alaska multiple times with no trouble because I drove slow and took my time. The car was not designed to run on those roads, but it did fine and had a huge trunk for all my gear. The best thing was that I was able to drive 500 miles on a tank of gas with plenty of extra gas waiting to be used in the car's fuel tank! Take your time and don't do things that are outside the capability of your vehicle and go out and explore.

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Floyd! Thanks for the comment! I think you're spot on, having the "perfect" vehicle shouldn't hold you back. Take what you have, understand the limitations, and get out there!

[@Tnapvrvideo]

Wonderful presentation!!! As off-road trail beginners, my wife and I have been combing KZbin for as much information as we can find. This video has been a superb collection of recommendations. We are slowly building our collection of gear, and your simple check has been extremely helpful. We happen to have a nice 2016 4Runner. We are about to pull the trigger on new tires. After a LOT of discussions and video views, we chose the BFG KO2 A/T tires. We have stock 265 tires, and we will either switch to 265 KO2's or we might ask if we can put on 275 KO2's ==> provided there are NO modifications to the 4Runner required. Thanks for a great share!!!

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks for the comment, glad to have you here! You definitely can't go wrong with the KO2s!

[@AugustMcmahon]

Hi Ben! I just discovered the concept of overlanding and I love it! I like your channel, really good points, and you have a great voice for youtube and specifically this kind of content! Very soothing and easy to listen to! Keep it up!

[@BenStinnett]

Thank you August! Glad to have you here!

[@johncook698]

Great video...I'm looking into overlanding with my Land Rover as soon as this lock down lifts. Thanks for sharing!

[@BenStinnett]

Glad it was helpful! Would love to see your Rover out on a trail!

[@6denashi608]

This was very helpful, thank you! I have a '19 Forester that I've been thinking of using for overlanding, or my 4x4 truck. But I have a new 4Runner on order that I think we will use. The initial investment in quality gear seems overwhelming. So this primer on recommended first purchases is very helpful. For my 4Runner, I am planning to start with some BFGKO2's, a jack, recovery kit, compressor, and RSG sliders, unless someone has a recommendation for sliders. I plan to keep the stock size tires because this will also be a backup tow vehicle if my truck poops out.

[@BenStinnett]

Sounds like a great starting point! I'm a bit jealous of the fleet of awesome vehicles you've got! haha RSG definitely makes great stuff. I'm rocking the sliders from Shrockworks and have been a fan of them, but it's hard to go wrong either way!

[@SuccessInSightPodcast]

Excellent Video. I am an absolute newbie, just moved to Las Vegas, and looking forward to overlapping with my Subaru Crosstrek. Keep up the great work.

[@BenStinnett]

Thank you! That crosstrek can definitely take you places!

[@zacharyking3301]

Thanks for the killer video! Great attitude too 😁 need more people like you in this world.

[@BenStinnett]

Thank you so much Zach! 🤙

[@jaitiwana9466]

Very informative video for someone like me who is starting with off road/overlanding. Thanks!

[@BenStinnett]

Glad it was helpful Jai!

[@anthonyclem107]

This video got you another sub. I have an 03 dakota with 215k miles on it. I’m going to be working with one of my friends to fab a rack. Strong enough that I can hang a hammock off of it, maybe one day have a roof tent on it. But for now, a basket on top of the rails, and kayak mounts. Thanks for the help brother!

[@BenStinnett]

I appreciate it Anthony! Glad to have you here!

[@earthwalker4293]

Great video. Very useful information for a backpacker/hiker/camper trying to get into overlanding. Love those shoes man. They're my go to hiking and outdoor shoes now. Thanks!

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks so much man! Love my Forsakes! Such a great shoe!

[@juliette5871]

This is an AWESOME Video. You have done a Great job! Your presentation is one of the best I've seen. Clear, concise, and to the point. PERFECT FOR THE BEGINNER. Thank You for sharing your time and knowledge. Keep up the Great work. On to the rest of your videos. Subscribed.

[@BenStinnett]

Wow, thank you so much for the kind words! Glad to have you here Juliette! Let me know if there are any specific topics you want to learn more about!

[@Vaejovis357]

Excellent orientation. Very generous & thoughtful crash course. Thank you.

[@bradenb]

Keep in mind a full-sized spare is really not optional on a 4x4. If you have to use 4WD to get out and you don't have a matching set of tires you are going to destroy your diff. Technically you can hobble out with a mismatched tire on the front in 2WD, but since we're talking about most likely puncturing on the trail that is not something you should count on.

[@BenStinnett]

Yeah that's a great point Braden. Definitely worth it to find room for a full size spare.

[@MTB4RNR]

Just got an 03 T4R 4x4 V8, and some of my buddies are trying to get me to go overlanding with them. Thanks for making this video!

[@BenStinnett]

Oh man I’m jealous of that V8! Have fun with it, Dave!

[@prim-n-proper9055]

Great video man! I'm thinking about getting into overlanding myself and this video was super helpful. Keep up the amazing work and I can't wait to see how your channel grows!

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks so much man, I appreciate it!

[@georgederocher8202]

Semi retired, 59, I guess I'm a hybrid camper/overlander. I use a lot of this kind of info and apply it to camping way out in our Casita pulled with my basically stock Ram 2500. The trailer serves a base, then hit the harder stuff. Nothing crazy, I don't like to break things. I don't go off road to prove anything, just to get away. The 4wd is just another tool to help out. This is great stuff . If you ever get to West Texas, check out Big Bend NP and Big Bend Ranch State Park. Thank you for this common sense video. Gave me ideas, and also made me confident I'm on the right track already. Based in San Antonio.

[@ickess]

Couple questions and one comment. I have an 03 expedition Eddie Bauer addition. 4 high, 4 low. I’ve got falken wild peak A/T tires. When we lived in NY we drove on the beach all the time. Other than the tires, led light bar and some rust from northern driving the truck is stock. How would it fair on some trails? Run across any of these out there? We would air down to 15psi once on the sand. How do you know when to air down on the trail, what’s a good psi? Don’t want to go too low. We got our Ford Escape stuck in a very large mud puddle on some fire trails once. Got a one ton cable puller and tow chains to get it out. Hooked to tree and tow hook on the escape and hand cranked it out. It worked amazing! Thanks for the great honest video!

[@BenStinnett]

Hey there! You'll definitely be in good company out on the trails, I've run into plenty of your fellow Expedition owners out there! You've got 8.9" of stock ground clearance, those Falkens are a great AT tire, and it sounds like you've got some driving experience, so I'd say you'll be able to do a significant amount of the beginner/moderate trails out in places like CA, CO, UT, and AZ. As for airing down, I typically just do it once we're truly at the start of the trail, even if I'm not going to need the extra grip gained by airing down, the smoother ride is worth it to me. 15-20psi is generally safe and what I see recommended. The lower you go, the more prone to sidewall damage you'll be. Thanks for watching!

[@gabrieljaime5473]

Man thank you for this video! I’ve been looking for a video that goes into overlanding for absolute beginners like myself wanting to start and I’ve been confused about some of the terms and all the lingo but you made it super easy to understand and less more practical to get into! Thanks again for the video!

[@BenStinnett]

Glad it was helpful Gabriel! Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like to learn more about!

Whole lot of wisdom there bro. These ridiculous overlanders that have endless money or sponsors out the wazoo make it look like it's out of reach for 70 to 80% of the average Joe's. Your approach is much more appealing to those of us that are not made of money. I like seeing folks that have made things work rather then buying the biggest and best all the time.

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks Gunny! Adapt, Improvise, and Overcome!

[@natet4601]

Thanks so much for this clear concise video. My overlanding adventures are about to begin, and this video helped a lot. I'm in central Cali too! I'll definitely be picking up that book.

[@noneofyourbusiness8251]

Watch this guy!! He’s very informative! I’ve been over landing for a little while and I wish I knew all this information. I just saw what people had and go look it up and buy it

[@BenStinnett]

Appreciate it man! That's what I had to do for a lot of gear too! Never be afraid to ask someone about great out on trail, everyone love loves talking about their stuff 😂

[@slopolopez7741]

Great videos! The only thing if you buy a used vehicle with more than 100K miles, get a new battery, radiator hoses and belts. After that maybe a radiator flush, tune up, alternator and brakes checked. 🙂🙂🙂

[@BenStinnett]

Great advice!

[@stefanhansen5882]

Best intro to overlanding I've seen. Thanks a lot!

[@BenStinnett]

Wow, thanks Stefan! Glad you found it helpful!

[@Caedda478]

I'm trying to get into overlanding with my Subaru Crosstrek. Luckily there's lots of overlanding Subies and a large offroad Subie community so finding help and advice isn't hard

[@BenStinnett]

That is definitely true Chad! It's great to have such a strong community

[@lierbag655]

Great video man! Thanks for sharing. This hopefully will help me to one day get started in overlanding

[@gabrielnavarro2417]

Overlanding sounds very similar to camping in which does not require an expensive suv/truck. Went from Cali to Utah mountains in a Toyota corrola and fit everything I needed from a tent, stove, propane tank, table, cooler, canopy and many more small things. Spent less than $1000 and had a blast. Im still saving up for a 4*4 tacoma off road though, hopefully soon.

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks for sharing! I used to do the same in my Chevy Cobalt 😂 The key difference as I see it is that I'm looking to build out my kit to be able to support us on longer duration and/or more remote trips, vs just packing my camping gear for an overnighter (and hopefully at some point in the future we'll be able to get out on those longer trips! haha).

[@googlab666]

Great video. Thanks so much for packing in a comprehensive starting point. Much appreciated!

[@BenStinnett]

Glad it was helpful!

[@elidae2018]

Really good video for someone like me who's been thinking for a while to do some camping. Keep up the good work!! 👍👍

[@BenStinnett]

Awesome, thanks for watching!

[@jeffreylubin8682]

Great video. Thanks for the tips, taking my first trip on a couple weeks!

[@BenStinnett]

Glad it was helpful! Good luck Jeffrey! Let me know if you've got any questions I can help with

[@eliteinventor]

Its best to practice with your gear , tire plug kits , you should carry a mallet, I started with spare battery to run gear and fridges, before that use a yeti cooler before that igloo, I use a jackery now connected to a fridge

[@BenStinnett]

Sounds like you’ve got a pretty dialed in setup 👍 thanks for the comment!

[@e.w.n.i.a.h]

Yes for tires!! First mod I did and it makes a world of a difference!

[@BenStinnett]

I was hitting trails on the stock tires for way too long 😂

[@e.w.n.i.a.h]

@@BenStinnett haha! I got my first taste on stock road tires that were quite worn and the difference is amazing!

[@gratehouse]

Great video, love how you communicate. Very warm, concise, and confident.

[@BenStinnett]

I really appreciate that! Thanks for watching Liam!

[@prylosecorsomething3194]

The nice thing about overlanding is that everyone already owns a car or truck, and there's nothing stopping most people from daily driving an all wheel drive or four wheel drive vehicle, so then they can use their daily for overlanding

[@BenStinnett]

Yeah that’s a great point. It’s definitely not like building out a track car or even a hardcore rock crawler that you can’t daily drive.

[@haikudragon1002]

U should write a book 2 bro, u answered all my questions I have as a soon 2 b beginner and im sure tons of other folk. 5/5 stars 🌟 thank u

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks K.C., I appreciate it! Let me know if there's anything you want to see me talk about!

[@b98588]

Amazing informative video! Thank you! I’m working on planning my first trip for the late spring or early summer and your tips have given me confidence that I’ll be able to go out and enjoy the journey. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@BenStinnett]

So glad it was helpful! Hit me up if you’ve got any other specific questions as you prep for your first trip! Good luck!

[@rivepadilla]

Im just starting overlanding, I have a Jeep Cherokee XJ, I love it.

[@BenStinnett]

Have a blast with it man!

[@anthonymoua2678]

This guy is keeping it real!

[@BenStinnett]

Thanks Anthony!

[@dennishenderson6988]

I know a couple has been “overlanding” in their stock Subaru forester for 10 years. Remote BLM lands, etc. Ground tent, coleman stove, cooler.

[@clawdawg7248]

Very thoughtful, well presented content. Thanks.

[@alexanderweaver8650]

Hi Ben! New sub here, just found your channel while surfing for this kind of information you've presented. Well done, well presented and well spoken. The only thing that "surprised" me was the transition from one subject to the next...wearing headphones was not a good idea for me. Whoa! I noted another comment was made about the same thing. Anyway, I really enjoyed how you talked about starting up as I'm new to overlanding; however I've years of experience with car camping with my children when they were young (too many moons ago) throughout Europe, U.S. West Coast and in Arizona. Being retired I wanted to transition from backpacking to car camping again and have discovered that it can be very expensive especially with just vehicle conversion. Much of the other costs in camping gear has been minimal by using what I already possess. It 's been super enjoyable finding camping sites in national forests and on BLM lands. My biggest concern is too many of the sites were littered by previous campers. It's a shame that not all people care about LNT. I have seen signs on BLM property warning that areas will be shut down to public use if LNT was not practiced. Other overlanders are expressing this in their videos...will you do this as well, please. Anyway, I love your 4Runner set up...looks great!

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Alexander! Thanks for the comment and for subscribing! It means a lot. I'm so sorry for the volume issue here! It definitely isn't my goal to blow out any eardrums 😂 I'm putting a ton of effort into making sure the audio is perfect from here on out! I completely agree about the importance of LNT! I try to keep a reminder in my videos or descriptions, and have a whole video in the works about LNT and some of the principles that people may not be familiar with (the impact of new fire pits, setting up camp too close to waterways, etc). Hopefully you'll check it out when I manage to get it uploaded!

[@alexanderweaver8650]

@@BenStinnett Great stuff, Ben! Thank you!

[@AudiomateYVR]

Great advices and content!!! Thank you for being transparent and not bias with your guide. :)

[@BenStinnett]

Always! Thanks for watching Pablo!

[@the1raiderfan34]

Thanks for the great info, small suggestion : the music on the video was way louder than your voice, so it was blowing my ears while I was so into your video, not being a hater, just an observation, Iam saving your vid. And subscribed, hope I run into you out there enjoy and thanks.

[@BenStinnett]

Hey Miguel, thanks for watching! I've definitely learned my lesson on the audio, I think it's like 90% of the comments here 😂 I'm trying to learn this video thing as I go and am bound to make plenty of mistakes! haha. Thanks for bearing with me as I get better at it all

[@georgertheexplorer4114]

A great vehicle for over landing is the first generation tundra, it’s less expensive than a Tacoma, within inches of the size of the latest generation Tacoma, has a v8 that will probably outlive you, and is overall just a great truck.

[@BenStinnett]

Oh wow, that's a great point! Hadn't thought of it, thanks for the comment!

[@JunaidKhan-li5sw]

That was an excellent video! Great job on being concise and explaining how/why you've made your conclusions. I've just started looking into overlanding and I think this video has done the best job I've seen yet explaining the intricacies of the activity. Thank you!

[@BenStinnett]

Really appreciate it, Junaid! Good luck getting out there and doing some exploring!

[@glomar_response]

Love your videos man!! Just got my 99 LX470 and itchin' to get out there myself!

[@vilmalopez737]

Your presentation is one of the best i ever watched. So helpful thanks.👍🙏🙏🙏

[@BenStinnett]

I’m glad it was helpful Vilma! Let me know if you’ve got any other questions that I can help with!

[@noneofmybusiness9895]

Good vehicle recommendations segment. People don't need 6" lifts with 35s for 99.9% of trails. I took my bone stock xterra off-road edition through some very gnarly trails - tank traps, over tree stumps, up on 3 tires, etc - handled it no problem. Now, it does have bilstein suspension from factory, but I eventually upgraded to OME with medium duty springs - only a 1.5-2" lift, but the articulation is better, as well as ride. I would agree with you that tires are #1, but would flip-flop suspension and rocksliders, simply because most vehicles have inadequate suspension for tough trails (i know you said to understand your vehicles limitations) and sliders come in handy for really, really tough trails like moab. Nice video. I'm from west coast Canada and we have some unbelievable trails up here on Van Island. Thumbs up man!

[@BenStinnett]

These are definitely great points! Appreciate you taking the time to comment! I think I put the sliders second only because I've seen a couple of people take significant damage form fairly minor obstacles by incorrectly judging where they would land or if they would make contact. It's a real bummer to finally make it to camp and realize you can't open your rear passenger door anymore because you crunched it 😂 I'm hoping to make it up to Canada if things ever improve and we're allowed to travel again! Seeing the trails you have access to makes me so jealous!

[@dusk7519]

The best vehicle you have is the one you currently own, sure, but.. my car barely handles snow, let alone that. Buying a 4runner in two weeks though, I'm excited to get started

[@BenStinnett]

That is exciting!

[@hicktown00]

Thanks for the ideas! Just bought a 2008 tacoma and will be building it up for awhile I'm sure!

[@BenStinnett]

Right on! The build up process is definitely a never ending one! haha. Thanks Jon!

[@coloradomallcrawlers]

Great video man! I use those books for my Colorado trail guide videos... great authors and very helpful!

[@BenStinnett]

Awesome! Thank you Dewie!