Trip and Gear Essentials for Overland Newbies

[@SandyCats]

Excellent video! Haven’t seen anyone cover this stuff and comfort IS key. My wife and kids would never go out for weeks without these creature comforts!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Haha yup! The ladies have 0 interest in smelling like farm animals for days at a time!

[@MuggsFJ]

We upgraded from soft shell to hard shell, but it was only because of pack up time. Our soft shell was pretty expensive ($2400 AUD) and that thing was rated to constant winds of 80 kph, was very solid and super comfy and spacious. But pack down was so annoying, especially at midnight when the tide is coming in further than you anticipated 😂 I like the Geyser just because it’s compact and electric. I wired a relay so I can flick a switch 30 mins before getting to camp, then just open the shower awning and can leave the unit mounted in the car while I use it. Great for solo camping, as slow to reheat on electric. Had the same gas one as you, nothing wrong with it, and it’s instant heat, but taking it out the car and then brushing off the sand and dirt was annoying. Why did you get rid of your heat exchanger? My wife loves the shower awning and the chemical toilet, makes all the difference for her. Most beaches in Australia you have to use a chemical toilet too. And having a water pump with pressurized water in the back for cooking so far is my favourite mod and probably the cheapest! Love your uploads man!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for the shaper chat Rob you’re awesome! I still have the heat exchanger shower under the hood, but compared to the Kakadu or the Geyser it is such a hassle, and it requires a lot of water. It works pretty good, but it’s about 3 gallons per person to shower with it. It’s got so much pressure it just rips through water. The other options are just so much less of a hassle. Thank you Rob! I’ve got some cool adventure content coming in the next few days!

[@MmIlahg]

The FJ. I have one of those and worth every penny.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Its been a very good vehicle!

[@5G4R]

Great video! Never thought about the importance of a good awning before watching this video! Another thing to not forget is the GVWR of your rig!

[@IndependenceOverland]

GVWR 🫣

[@baileypinto9483]

Modeled my FJ build after yours and appreciate the honesty in your videos. The Alucab tent paired with the Hest mattress was a major improvement. Best sleep I’ve ever gotten while camping. Thanks for the recommendations 👍🏼

[@IndependenceOverland]

Its a next level combo, such a comfortable experience. Expensive, but if you camp a lot then it is worth it!

[@KeMad00]

Love that you still own an FJ. Never sell it!

[@IndependenceOverland]

I’ve got upgrade videos in the works!

[@GauchoWoodworking]

@@KeMad00 I love my FJ . 2007 stick . Great machine

[@ethanphillips889]

My fiancé and I love your videos. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for watching! 🙏

[@LarryRose-y2b]

Another amazing video love how you give so much detail and what works and what doesn't can't wait to see your new build 😊

[@WolfOverland]

+1 for Hest. I got the mattress and after one trip I got the down blanket / sheets / pillows no hesitation on the price. I got the best sleep in my life.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Its crazy right?! We sleep so good up there!

[@jaygun-dl3hh]

Your level of detail about WHY you like or dislike something is unbelievably helpful. My purchase decisions just became much more informed. Very grateful to you for doing this.

[@IndependenceOverland]

I’m glad you found it helpful!

[@MissouriAdventures]

Love my Iceco APL 55 and the cart for it. Tested it out on a few short family trips for family gatherings. Can’t wait to use it this weekend in AR and for the Total Eclipse in April.

[@GirdlerFamilyOverland]

What a great rundown of everything to consider. All in one great resource to point people to if they have questions of how to get started or what do they really need. Great job.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for checking it out!

[@nebc_yukonyeti]

Very thorough video, enjoyed it. Helps so much with the buy once cry once. Completely agree that a backpacking background makes overlanding seem glamorous. Gear choices matter. Listened closely to the spouse section, am I the only one trying to convince my hubby to come outdoors more?

[@IndependenceOverland]

Hmmm perhaps a 12v fridge and a Squarekeg full of his favorite beer is the way to pour him to the woods! 🤔

[@TobyCostaRica]

2:45 a Govee BT data logging thermometer is a great solution for that for $15. Data logs temps and sends alerts if outside the range in case your fridge gets unplugged etc.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Awesome thanks!

[@MissouriAdventures]

Good tip on the backup food with you for all of the reasons you said plus injury. I always keep ramen noodles with us. I should add something ready to eat like you mentioned. Good tip. I’ll be adding that.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yeah it makes me feel a lot better, and sometimes I just want to be lazy and not have to dig everything out to cook.

[@MmIlahg]

If you want a fauset they make almost similar ones to the dometic for under $20. I know not good enough if you are on KZbin but it pumps water and you have $80 in your bank account.

[@MrJblazejr]

Yeah dude I totally agree. My fridge was less than 300. 54 quart. It kicks ass. You can budget on certain items here and there. Like a shovel or headlamps. It's a light and a shovel, don't overthink it.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Doesn’t really have anything to do with being good enough for KZbin. I bought mine, it wasn’t given to me. It’s a well thought out product that works and works well. The auto fill modes are really nice. Maybe I’ll buy a cheap one to compare the Dometic to for the next rig.

[@jimskatr103]

My set power works pretty darn good honestly. :) I bought a true dual zone and am selling my old one to a homie. I have 5 kids stuffed in a first gen sequoia. The fridge freezer is a game changer!

[@IndependenceOverland]

I had mediocre results with a Setpower but perhaps they have upped your game. If it works for you, then it works! That thing has to be stuffed to the gills to with 5 rug rats needing fed!

[@MmIlahg]

If you want a decent fridge unless you are a KZbinr get a setpower PT series. Right around $300 3 year warranty on the compressor. I've been using one for almost a year and it's been bullet proof.

[@IndependenceOverland]

I own 3 Snomasters and I paid for them. Yes, the cheapest fridge I have was free for a review video. But most people don’t want to spend 1400 on a Snomaster. Iceco is a solid fridge that’s more affordable, and have a reputable compressor. I reviewed a Setpower 2 years ago and I was not very impressed. It’s the fridge referred to in this video as a “cool box”. Temps were always off, and it struggled. My friend used it on our Baja trip and he was drinking mildly chilled drinks, while I was making ice and 33 degree beers. Perhaps Setpower has corrected some of this since.

[@John-ke2jm]

Ya there are plenty of fridges in the $300 range that do the job just fine.

[@baileylittle5170]

Great video! 👏

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thank you! 🙏

[@RanchoTexano]

Another great video! I’d like to pass along a recommendation for Packit Gourmet meals. Hands down best quick prepare meals!

[@IndependenceOverland]

I’ll give it a go! I like to try new ones so there are fresh flavors out of these kinds of meals. I need to restock for the year anyway. Thank you!

[@RanchoTexano]

@@IndependenceOverland Also a great small business- you can just tell they really care about their product and customers (I have no affiliation)

[@mikechandler3791]

Looking forward to the water purification video - as always good content - thank you

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yes sir, it should be a good one! I have been wanting to do that video for years, and will finally be making it happen this spring! Stay tuned, and thank you!

[@GauchoWoodworking]

Thank you. I love my FJ and travel between California and Gunnison, CO all the time. Great info

[@InGratitudeIam]

Great tips! I love what you did with mounting that Pelican Case over the spare. Like you, I bought the Kakadu shower system precisely because of my wife's long, thick hair. Happy wife, happy overland experience... so much cheaper than paying an attorney. :)

[@IndependenceOverland]

Haha spot on!

[@onasledoverland]

Best vid on this topic out there. Well done Tyler. ❤

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thank you I appreciate that!

[@elijahdondada]

Great vid...thanks for the tips!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for checking it out!

[@SuperdutyExplorer]

As fun ad a small vehicle would be, I love the room in my 1 ton with 8 foot box

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yeah, the Fj Cruiser is definitely restricted on space. I am very much looking forward to having a truck bed soon, even though it will be small it will be a whole lot more space than I have now.

[@SuperdutyExplorer]

@IndependenceOverland I put 100ish nights in my old short bed with cab height topper... still had a blast but man does is the extra 2 feet in length and 10 inches of height is amazing! Working on a biuld video now... but my gopro footage is in a size my phone can't use to edit lol...

[@alpinetactics]

A lot of awesome gear in this video and great points. I do think you’re missing something by writing off soft shell tents entirely. Obviously everyone has different needs but I have found that soft shells just suit our needs better than hard shells. AluCab doesn’t even make tents big enough for a family. We started off with a $5k ikamper and hated it and have been very happy with a cheaper soft shell. As always love your videos man just thought I would share that perspective.

[@IndependenceOverland]

I am surprised you didn’t like the Ikamper. That is what I view as kind of the family sized hard shell, not quite the same but has a wind ramp on one side. I seriously have never had someone say they prefer a soft sided tent, but if it works, it works! Are you using it on a trailer by chance? On a trailer they a LOT less of a hassle to put away. I’m sure your larger sized one is a real bear to fold up. Thanks for your comment!

[@alpinetactics]

@@IndependenceOverland yeah I just didn’t think the build quality was good enough to justify a 5k price tag (tent + tax and shipping) the mattress was no bueno, and I personally felt like the sleeping area was just a bit to snug for a family of 4. I have a camper shell on my Tacoma and have it mounted to that using a Front Runner roof rack. It’s pretty big but it’s actually very light weight - 152lbs. They for sure take more effort to set up/ put away then an ikamper or AluCab but we are still only talking 5-10 minutes, no different then the smaller soft shells.

[@plbraveheart]

Water system: 1. Rechargeable water pump from Amazon $53 2. Immersion water heater from Amazone $23 3. Bucket from Harbor Frieght: $6 Total: $8 No need for those $400 systems, bro :)

[@canyonoverland5003]

I've been overlanding since 2019 now in a Tacoma and I have all the gear I need very similar to your stuff in many respects, yet I still watch these newbie type videos. There's always a bit of new information or something I might not have considered before. Well done!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks man!

[@wildwestexplorations8097]

Job well done one of best gear videos ive ever seen

[@IndependenceOverland]

I appreciate it!

[@rhinoceros356]

Love your videos, what Rotopax mount are you using with that bumper? I just got the bumper but am having a problem finding the right mount. Thank you for what you do!

[@IndependenceOverland]

You choose it from the drop down menu. Thanks for watching! www.expeditiononestore.com/Geri-Mount-Bracket-for-Flat-Panel-Fuel-Water-Cans_p_264.html

[@rhinoceros356]

@IndependenceOverland Awsome, thank you sir!

[@returnofthecmack2013]

Tyler - you might find this interesting: I emailed kakadu a few months ago asking about the possibility of a sink attachment to hook into that system and they said it’s on their list of accessories to get to at some point. I hope that ends up happening because I feel like that could be nice for toggling between a permanently placed sink setup/mobile shower head!

[@IndependenceOverland]

That would be really cool! I wondered about that myself, just basically building a Y adapter of sorts. I hope they launch some new stuff this year!

[@diman585]

Is it nice to have brand name stuff that’s made in USA - umm yeah!? However, an average Joe can’t afford a majority of those things, because overlanding is an expensive hobby. It’s like having a 2nd house on wheels that you have to furnish… Amazon would be a good place to start (with lots of research and reading through people’s feedback) believe it or not, some things are decent on there. Like a 1400 dollar fridge is ridiculous, that’s the cost of a full size household appliance, it does not need to be that expensive. I bought a BougeRV fridge for 150 on Amazon and it works just fine keeping everything cold, sure it’s not made in USA from an aircraft grade aluminum, but it works and it’s better than regular cooler. Sorry for my rant, but overlanding should be accessible by everyone regardless of their income 😊

[@JarradShaw]

I wonder if it would worth some of us looking into Zenbivy’s Duo sleep system. Their systems “could(?)” provide what you are showing for rooftop tents and could be used for ground sleeping depending on the trip and adventure…

[@IndependenceOverland]

Looks like a promising setup. I have considered using a swag setup for a while when the new truck gets here, since they have the mattress just built into them. It would also be a good ground camping setup.

[@fourwheelsandaheartbeat6163]

Brilliant video touched on some important things I didn't think about

[@rosendofj40bigblock7]

Thanks for sharing all the information, Happy travels

[@IndependenceOverland]

🙏

[@ront2857]

GREAT Vid! Excellent narration and quality! Thank you!! We are a 2 FJ family (07's Voodoo & Sun Fusion) soon to be adding Grenadiers on order. I was bummed to see you bailed on your order for one. I would really have liked to see everything you would have done with it. I appreciate your 'why' video about that, in the hope that INEOS really pays attention to the potential reasons that could hold someone back from buying one. For us it's simple, we haven't been this stoked about buying a vehicle since we bought our FJ's 17+ years ago. Really. Cheers!

[@IndependenceOverland]

I was extremely excited about them at first, but it just didn't make sense for what I want to do with my next vehicle. I want a space I can hide form the bugs, rain, and cold when I need to. The Grenadier is just a bit too small for that for all of the effort and money I will be putting in. Congrats on them though, I hope they treat you well!

[@ront2857]

@@IndependenceOverland Thanks man! Here's hoping that the rich guy analogy plays out more 'MUSK/TESLA' rather than 'Delorean/Delorean'. Cheers!

[@matthewschiebout7384]

I'm surprised you weren't stoked at selling those early FJ's for newer models without the deficiencies. By 2013/2014 these issues were well known and fixed.

[@ront2857]

@@matthewschiebout7384 Our 2 '07s have been spectacular and haven't had any problems or deficiencies to us. (knock on wood...) Mine is turning over 160,000 and hers has 85,000. Cheers!

[@Juan234alv]

Great video man. So many people get into the hobby and figure out what they “need” from instagram or KZbinrs and spend so much money on stuff they won’t use or utilize for a 2-4 day trip and spend thousand. Or get discouraged and think they aren’t ready because they aren’t built enough.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks man I appreciate it!

[@jlboehm]

I live in NW AR can without a doubt agree with you in regards to quality outdoor clothing. The humidity here can take a nice 85⁰ day and make it feel like 103⁰ and you feel like you're swimming in a hot soup.

[@berniesutton6451]

Appreciate the video. As a general statement i think a lot of overlanders would benefit from running a 65 liter pack on a 4 day backpacking trip. One finds out pretty quickly what is and isn't necessary to enjoy the outdoors

[@IndependenceOverland]

When I do the backpack hunting thing, I am of course forced to carry just the basics and there is something very fun to that, and just living out of a backpack for several days is rewarding in a completely different way.

[@lr7815]

Ive been using an alpicool fridge I bought for $160 4 years ago and its still running perfectly

[@taurota1554]

Awesome and outstanding content as always.Thanks for sharing and taking us along.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@nelistheron83]

Excellent advice. Thank you

[@tracereed7457]

A steel bumper is 100% the first thing you need on any vehicle that can handle the weight. Everything else is protected by it. I was on my way to a campsite and hit a deer. No trip after that

[@sloguyty5915]

Great video Tyler! It’s been a while since I’ve tuned in but I’ll be binging everything that I’ve missed today!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for taking the time!

[@jakemetz1742]

Super helpful. One thing to consider with the rooftop tent tho is the possible need for a suspension upgrade to correct for any sag

[@IndependenceOverland]

💯

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Good info here buddy. Great vid!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks my man! Your attending Moore again I assume?

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@IndependenceOverland Yep! I’ll be there. You?

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yes sir! I’ll see you there man!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@IndependenceOverland Awesome! See you soon!

[@whocaresjustdoit]

Great video! Yeah I agree with most of the things you mentioned. A fridge, a good tent, awning, backup foods, and some recovery straps and a shovel and you should be good! I see ppl who spend $20K+ on ridiculous lifts and tires and bumpers and winch, and for 99.99999% of the time you’ll never need those things. I’ve just now upgraded to RTT after 3 years of sleeping on a ground tent and inside my 4Runner. It’s a great convenience but I would have been fine without the RTT.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yeah it’s the cool factor people are often chasing. And I get it, but for people who just want adventure, they don’t need to throw the catalog at it.

[@BiggProduction]

Woah bringing the first world to camping.

[@tombolox]

in the 80s we call it camping and you only need a car and a tent. so overland is like camping but more expensive, heavier and complicated.......but the car look amazing for Instagram pictures, great success!!

[@IndependenceOverland]

👍

[@kmb_4125]

FJ forever!!! been my favorite vehicle

[@r3dfiv3]

33:39 On the subject of tents, I will personally stick to ground tents because I sometimes have multiple pee breaks in the middle of the night. The downside of having a bladder the size of an edamame. Great channel to stumble upon though!

[@GerardoTostado]

On Rooftop tents I do recommend the new 1,000-1,500 hard shells. They all come from china and the only differences from the 2,000+ ones will be the buckles and zippers which can be upgraded diy for a few bucks.

[@steeleybaws]

The best fridge we've ever used was bought in a french supermarket for ~€100 about 10 years ago. Proper compressor one. Has survived years of abuse, the dust of the Sahara, harsh vibrations, being dropped and bashed all over the place. It'll still keep beer cold at any temp. Sometimes you can get real lucky with the cheap stuff, don't buy the first thing you see online 😉

[@bobkent2334]

There are comfortable & cheap alternatives to buying expensive mattresses. One alternative is to retain the OEM mattress & permanently keep underneath it a Thermarest-style insulated, inflatable backpacker's mattress. Before lowering the roof of my popup camper, I open the Thermarest valve to deflate it. After raising the roof, I put a few puffs of air into the Thermarest (overinflating makes it uncomfortable.)

[@kakomotori743]

Thank you so much for this video,,, answered a loooot of my questions 🤘 keep it up bro 😎

[@IndependenceOverland]

Very happy to help, thank you! 🙏

[@toyotaoforlando]

Love love love your FJ so sick!!

[@TheCampersChronicles]

Good video... thank you for all the work you put into it. I learned something new! - Subcribed!

[@jamesmontana9737]

usually like your content, but how is this list for newbies? Add up the cost of those items: over $10,000.

[@IndependenceOverland]

I don’t attribute someone that’s new to a hobby as someone who is new to having income. I understand your opinion, but it’s not necessarily the case. Places like Tactical Applications Vehicles and Juniper Overland make most of their business from people who drop off a truck and have a catalog of stuff bolted to it. Lots of people are more than happy to spend money to be comfortable on trips like this. I also mention/use text with the really expensive items to at least buy quality products. You don’t need exactly what I have, but buying the cheapest thing possible isn’t a good idea in my book.

[@jamesmontana9737]

reasonable answer...@@IndependenceOverland

[@warrioroutlaw6231]

Rich people ....

[@explore_off_road]

This is a good one. I'm going to comment as I watch. But to start, most vehicles are pretty capable right out of the box for a beginner with just a good set of off-road tires. Once they get more adventurous (maybe daring), then start adding the cool, fun stuff. ... To us, the fridge was a game changer. We too went with a "known" brand. Spend the little extra, and not go cheap Amazon. You'll end up buying something else anyway. Just get it right the first time... And with a bit of Tetris, you can get a few days in a smaller one.

[@IndependenceOverland]

💯

[@craiglawrey7518]

Great vid. Thank you.

[@JarradShaw]

For showering or going “potty”, what system do you have to make your experience more private?

[@IndependenceOverland]

I am using the Quickpitch shower room currently. But I am looking at the Alucab one for the next build, as it has a top cover option (keeps bugs out) and it has a shelf (for soap/shampoo/etc.

[@kristinvogt6980]

Great video, love the options!

[@That_Guy_Outside]

Great advice all around

[@dennisfarris1869]

Great resource video! Subscribed.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thank you! 🙏

[@InGratitudeIam]

Southern Missouri and Arkansas should be renamed to Chigger National Wildlife Preserve. Bring clear nail polish. It makes for easy chigger removal.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Haha no joke! It’s the worst part of traveling out there!

[@willemmast1384]

Great video. Would you recommend the aluminum shell over the ABS shell, just based on comfort and what you mentioned about stability?

[@IndependenceOverland]

For the tent? Yes. ABS can be alright, its just a matter of how hard you are on gear. I personally like the idea that I can weld my tent if it were to get a hole in it or something. For lighter use, ABS can be just fine. I would avoid fiberglass entirely though.

[@kengeroo]

alucab awning all the way.. my best investment on my rig !

[@IndependenceOverland]

They are so good!

[@fariascarlose]

Very good channel, congratulations. Could you tell me which tent fan you use? Thank you

[@Dustin.Michaels]

Not Overland related but what Apple Watch band are you wearing? I need a rugged one for adventures and there’s a million of them on Amazon. Great video BTW

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yup, I was in the same boat! amzn.to/42Z4MmH

[@croaker4747]

Keep in mind, the cost of all this “Overlanding” gear will pay for a hell of a lot of cabin rentals in most remote areas. A tent and basic camping gear will work for weekends. Unless you are really going out in the middle of nowhere for a week or more, does this stuff start to make sense. Under body protection and tires are the things you need to invest in first in order to protect your vehicle. Everything else depends on what you are actually doing. Not what you tell yourself you will be doing.

[@johnnyoutwest]

thanks man, appreciate the info!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for watching!

[@heyyitsandy]

I have a voodoo FJ as well - that alucab 270 looks perfect! Would you mind sharing what roof rack you have it all mounted to?

[@IndependenceOverland]

It’s just a rhino rack backbone with 3 cross rails bolted to it

[@rallyrats]

I too had SSTS (soft shell tent syndrome), ended up with a hardshell a year later and never looked back.

[@IndependenceOverland]

🤣 the syndrome is real!

[@J.Young808]

I got (27 Jan 2024) my 2023 Tacoma ACLB TRD OR in order to one day go out. I am not going to be like all the other guys here in Hawai’i that lift it up and mainly drive on the road Sunday-Friday/Monday-Saturday they go wheel one day a week. I plan on getting Cali Raised sliders and possibly aluminum skids, but I’m not going to lift it and put big tires on it. I want to learn to pick lines. I’d rather keep it stock (change up wheels and tires [stock size]) and put the money into good quality equipment. Since people have been Overlanding for decades with stock Defenders and Land Cruisers.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Which island has the best offroading?

[@J.Young808]

@@IndependenceOverland not too sure as I haven’t been to the outer islands for that purpose. I was born and raised in Honolulu and I moved back in 2015 after 20 years living in Oregon and Washington.

[@Vel1th]

Awesome video! I have been trying to find a better sleeping solution and the Hest mat sounds great. I'm curious, have you tried an Xped MegaMat? Do you think the Hest is better?

[@IndependenceOverland]

I have only sat on one at REI a few times before I found out about HEST. The Xped is comfortable, but the reason I held off on buying one for so long is because of the air. But I am in no way exaggerating that we have spend thousands on mattresses for home now, because both myself and the wife started sleeping better in the tent than we were at home. So we are currently chasing the same quality sleep the HEST gives us for our home bed. I encourage you to read through comments on the Hest review video I did. People who buy these things are absolutely blown away by them. I absolutely find the HEST to be the best mattress option not only for roof top tents, but for a portable bed in general.

[@Vel1th]

@@IndependenceOverland Awesome, thanks for the thorough reply!! I'll have to check out your other video but it sounds like a winner!

[@IndependenceOverland]

I forgot to think this video below actually, I’ll add it. HEST Mattress Roof Top Tent MAJOR Upgrade! kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqbSlICjj7ejhas

[@pl5861]

OOOOO, we need a fridge....OOOOO don't forget the Jackery ......OOOO let's cook on the scottle......turn in your man cards!

[@roxasparks]

Lol... Nah, sometimes I want some bacon with my deer in the morning when I'm out in bumfuk. Shiiit learn to enjoy the little things, you don't gotta give up EVERYTHING just cuz. Pfft nah... Cold whiskey out in the sticks after setting up camp... Perfect

[@diktat6558]

Bumper ❌ Full kitchen, roof tent & awning ✅

[@TNOldFolksAdventures451]

Nice video. Do you have any idea when Hardkorr will be back in the us?

[@IndependenceOverland]

Not totally sure, they had send me an email in late 2023 saying it would be early 2024 but I haven’t seen anything more on it. Theres a US company doing something similar I will be doing some content with. Stay tuned for that.

[@TNOldFolksAdventures451]

@@IndependenceOverland I found these Drifta Stockton Stick On Flexible LED Light Strip Kit, they look a lot like the Hardkorr. Do you know anything about them?

[@IndependenceOverland]

@@TNOldFolksAdventures451oh wow, that is identical. They must have found Hard Korrs supplier. Looks like a nice kit, thank you for bringing that to my attention!!

[@IndependenceOverland]

@Overlanding45 Did they give you a link? I am curious who is shipping for them now. It was GTFO handling that for them previously.

[@AkhaLosii-js6tl]

Some can roam around the world with their tent and stove on a bike... Some need to carry all their miniature home appliances on a build up 4x4 for a one night camping... 😂😂😂

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yup, I’ve done both. I’ve spent a week chasing elk sleeping in a tent with no floor, and when driving a truck I can bring the comfy stuff. 🤷‍♂️

[@codybennett3646]

I live in arkansas. If you come here dont pack water, just breathe the air to hydrate. 😂

[@IndependenceOverland]

Haha thats a fact man! Its nuts out there!

[@MrJblazejr]

I slightly disagree with the beginning of this video. Poor recovery gear or no recovery gear at all is an absolute trip killer. I tell everyone get a winch and recovery gear FIRST. Can't have fun and progress on your route when you're stuck or broken down.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yeah I intended for this video to be more focused on the comfort side of things, but since it was a compiled but of info for beginners I should have at least referenced my recovery video. But I still think when I talk to people who are like “I want to go but I need a bumper and skid plates, yada yada” they are almost making an excuse to not go do cool stuff. Beginners usually aren’t so brave they will find themselves in the same situations I do, and I rarely need to use recovery gear, while I always use the awning, fridge, tent, etc.

[@Bagaskara501]

Why would you recommend winch and bar? They will make beginners too confident because they know they have the winch and not choose the right line for the tracks.

[@GerardoTostado]

Nonsense. You don’t need to go risking your truck. Most people don’t as this a daily driver. First thing you need is a tent.

[@jguil4d]

Really depends upon your use case. In KZbinland, “overlanding” is synonymous with “off roading,” but it doesn’t have to be. Everything here applies equally well to the person in the tricked out 4x4 and the old beat up Camry.

[@reaIdeaIneaI]

It depends on the destination and length of the trip in which recovery gear you need. I 90% off road on the beach where winches are not high on my list of recovery gear. A tire deflation kit, good set of maxtrax or similar brand, standard issue folding military shovel, and a tow strap is really all I take on my weekend warrior beach trips. I have started bringing along a small box of general tools if I ever needed to do some quick maintenance… also I recently started carrying a high lift jack because I saw a dude out there that had to utilize one and said to myself if he needed it I may be in a situation where I need to one as well.

[@danielsteinberg7698]

If you are new to overlanding, buy a tent from REI and a sleeping bag. 😊

[@IndependenceOverland]

Fair enough

[@shr00m7]

Hey, new to your channel, and new to Overlanding- though I have an extensive background in long-distance backpacking and back country hunting. And I don't want to be "that guy"- but since this video is aimed at "Newbies" I feel really compelled to point out a major safety issue in the content you presented regarding COTTON. Since you said you have a background in back country hunting I am surprised that you said the reason we don't wear Cotton is because of microbial growth/stink/takes longer to dry out. This is so close to the real reason, but you left out the most important component. COTTON KILLS. Because cotton absorbs so much water, the cotton fibers collapse & lose their structure resulting in a loss of insulation, this can accelerate hypothermia in cold conditions (like at night in desserts or during shoulders seasons and winter). Whereas wool and synthetics maintain their structure when wet, wicking away moisture, they will maintain a large percentage of their insulating properties (trapping air, and letting your body heat warm up that air) thus lowering the chances of hypothermia. The antimicrobial/stink factor is so far down on the list of why wool and synthetics are preferred for back country activities. Just a head up for everyone else out there!

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yeah, cotton sucks in that regard but it’s not nearly as dangerous when you have a truck with HVAC, a tent with a quilt, and typically several changes in clothing. The chances of everything getting soaked while traveling in a 4x4 is pretty slim, as with hiking it’s a very common issue. And if it were to happen, you turn the heat up and head home or change your clothes. Cool user name. I like getting out to forage mushrooms. I’ve done a few videos on it.

[@jordanharris3749]

What fold down table are you using on the back door of the FJ? Would love to find one for mine

[@IndependenceOverland]

MPAC by Springtail Solutions

[@crusher8017]

You missed why a steel front bullbar is not required.

[@Dies1r4e]

maybe I am just an ape as you said, but two clips, a decent tarp, and two extendable poles, if its REALLY windy run some 550, it takes like...five minutes? maybe to set up an awning that costs like 30 bucks? I Just cant bring myself to spend 5000 dollars on some of those crazy things. just see friends with them and they have enough time to maybe a get a chair out of a bag, or open a door and im set up too, i just cant see paying that gap for such a small time savings? Am I just freakishly fast at making shade?

[@ricdonato4328]

Much interesting and excellent information. Thank you for sharing. Question, why do guys and gales wear their hats backward? Truly, it does not make one look cool, actually make them look darn goofy, kind of a Deliverance Bubba type. Often I notice folks without their hat having the tell-tale half moon tan on their foreheads. Also, not long ago I saw a husband and wife, hats on backward, with their hand over their eyes blocking the son; stupid is as stupid does.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Thanks for the fashion advice. The fact that you took the time to write that much just to try to belittle someone you don’t know makes your lack of character shine bright.

[@JeffCleverley]

ICECO are great, but they are a Chinese company. The US company is just a distributor, owned by the Chinese company.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Yeah I am aware of that, but compared to some other companies where if you have an exhance they tell you to send to to Shanghai so they can inspect it for repairs, I consider that a win. So many companies are from China these days. Its hard to get around it. Snomaster is South African National Luna is South African Iceco is China Dometic and ARB are chinese built I am pretty sure. I dont think any US companies make a 12v fridge and if they do, it would be the most expensive fridge ever.

[@JeffCleverley]

@@IndependenceOverland sure, was just a correction, I want them to get their due credit - they are a quality Chinese outfit, bought an amazing asset in the compressor technology and went for it with constant iteration in the market. I live in China, overland here, have their jp30 pro for a few years because it's warranty covers operating at 30 degree cambers.

[@micheleobrien64]

Keep in mind alot of gas stations are closing thier bathrooms to the public. Thanks to homeless folks you cant park anywhere, and there's no bathroom access either! So if you come to california, rvers/ car campers, are not very welcome and stay overs can get expensive!😢

[@IndependenceOverland]

Fair point! Carry a portable pooper!

[@robertbooth7396]

38:05 happy wife happy life. Easy peasy.

[@Djtruckin]

Man I really liked you until this video 😂. I can barely get to the finish. Hey , we all have our opinions so I appreciate that. Im just stumped on the “ essential gear thing” doesn’t really matter what I think. I just disagree in teaching newcomers this. But I’m only drawing from 40 years of Offroad travel. No disrespect. I still like your videos ❤

[@aung3627]

အမြဲတန်းနှုပ်ကအလုပ်လုပ်နေသူ

[@GerardoTostado]

Those fridges cost more than a 30 ft.³ home fridge. I recommend you do research and shopping so that we’re not getting these overpriced companies are money. And ruining the market.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Not sure which your referring to, but Snomaster has been that expensive from the start. They are way higher quality fridges, I have tested cheap fridges and they do not perform as well, plain and simple.

[@robertherrmann4823]

Nice stuff but hardly essential.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Fair enough

[@cantrucker654]

Full of 💩 😂😂😂

[@IndependenceOverland]

How so?

[@jeffweston9743]

The more I truly try to watch videos that I think are helpful the more I am annoyed. Its the picture that attracted me to the video in the first place, the picture of your vehicle. Your video is good don't get me wrong but the title of the video in combination with the picture is what was was hoping for so I feel mislead. At least you seem honest and you show yourself on camera and I say this because I generally leave a real nasty comment. Video makers have really got to STOP using the wrong cover photos for what their filming because it's dishonest.

[@IndependenceOverland]

What's dishonest about it? I have arrows pointing at armor, and I say I don't think that stuff is that necessary. The things I do recommend I have arrows pointing to as well....

[@ramtough2006]

The art of camping has been lost,if youre spending 100k to camp youre no longer camping sad.

[@dustynevada7769]

Over landing 😂 It’s car camping. Stop it.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Who cares

[@geoffreyanderson1758]

How many people are you feeding? Ridiculous.

[@IndependenceOverland]

Hard to fathom going on a trip for more than a day, huh?