Master Overlanding Packing List

This is the list I wish I’d had when I first got into overlanding. One of the most common questions we’re asked at all of our events is, “What exactly do you pack for an overlanding trip?

In this article, I’ll do my best to answer that question.

Please note that for most people who go overlanding for a weekend or short trip, this list will be severe overkill. On the other hand, we’ve been traveling full-time since February 2014–and now we’re doing it with a toddler. So our list is going to be much different and more extensive than most.

Naturally, folks only want to pack what they expect to use for the specific trip they’re taking. It’s important to take into consideration your route, destination, and possible weather conditions for each individual trip.

The general rule is to take as little as you need for the trip you are currently undertaking.

The lower the weight in your vehicle, the easier it is on the suspension and vehicle in general (as well as on your pocketbook) when it comes to gas mileage. For those who travel full-time like we do, we still carry as little as we can. But we have to be prepared at all times for as much as possible. Just know overlanding isn’t about the gear as much as the journey.

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Don’t Be Overwhelmed by This Packing List

Keep in mind, the following article contains our ENTIRE packing list. For a big picture overview of what you really need to go overlanding, you should take a look at this article. (Hint, it’s not about stuff.) ➡️ Ignore the Hype: What Do You Really Need To Go Overlanding?

And if you want to see our overlanding rig build, rather than what we pack on trips, then read this instead ➡️ Neverending Story: Our Overland Jeep Build.

And if you’re new to overlanding and just curious about what it is in general, then start with this article ➡️ What Is Overlanding?

Finally, if you just want to be inspired and read a story about one of our overlanding adventures deep in the heart of Mexico, then grab a cup of coffee and read this ➡️ Overlanding the Mountains of Sierra Gorda With Overland Bound Friends.

Why I Wrote This Article

We’re asked about our gear at events, outings, and meetups. Writing this article was a lot of work, but now I can point folks to it rather than try to cover everything and ultimately miss something.

Some folks may wonder why the heck I posted this, as there’s always concern for theft. Why would I tell everyone what I’m carrying? Look, we’re not doomsayers. Like everyone else, our rig is susceptible to vandalism and theft. But we’ve done our best to provide security measures for ourselves and our vehicle. And at the end of the day, it’s just stuff. As long as Brittany, Caspian, and I are safe, that’s all that matters.

Ultimately, we want to make sure we aren’t selfish with our lifestyle. We want to be a resource and source of encouragement for others. Bottom line: we don’t live in fear. If we did, we wouldn’t be doing what we’ve been doing for the past six years.

As a final note before I get into our master overlanding packing list, at the very end of this article, I provide tips on how to select gear for your adventures. If you are new, then don’t miss my tips!

For those of you who want to know the entirety of what we pack in our Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, the rest of this article is for you.

Our Master Overlanding Packing List

I keep our master overlanding packing list on an app called Evernote. We regularly refer to the list, refine it, and check each item off as we load up for our trips.

Items do NOT get checked off until they are physically packed into the Jeep. That means if something is sitting on the ground outside the Jeep, then it isn’t checked off the list.

There are three of us: Eric, Brittany, and Caspian (our two-year-old). So on our packing list, you’ll see something like E’s, B’s, or C’s sunglasses. That means our individual sunglasses. Hope that makes sense.

Finally, I’ve organized this list in the article by equipment type. On my actual master overlanding packing list, I organize specifically by where an item lives in the Jeep. That way, when we’re headed out, I can actually check that our gear is where it’s supposed to be before we roll out. I recommend you do the same.

So without further ado, here is our master overlanding packing list:

Keys

You aren’t going anywhere without them. Always carry at least two sets of keys in different locations for everything you have locked!

• E & B’s Jeep keys
• 2 sets of keys for the lock box
• 2 sets of keys for the iKamper tent
• 2 sets of keys for the cable lock
• 2 vehicle alarm key fobs

Personal Items

These don’t really fall into any other category, but they’re always with us.

• E & B’s driver’s licenses
• E & B’s sunglasses
• E’s wallet
• E’s fake wallet
• B’s purse
• E, B, & C’s passports
• E’s G-Shock watch with altimeter, compass and barometer
• Pens
• Checkbook
• E & B’s journals
• Jeep owner’s manual
• Registration
• Insurance documents
• Jeepsies business cards
• E, B, & C’s medications
• E & B’s Bibles

Clothing

We each have one Red Oxx duffle bag in which to pack clothing for our adventures. If it fits in our bag, it gets to travel. Needless to say, we don’t have a lot of variety in our wardrobe, but all of our clothing is high-end outdoor gear that can withstand the punishment we put it through.

We also have a cargo net attic we created over the passenger seats where our jackets live.

• E’s KÜHL rain jacket
• E’s KÜHL vest*
• E’s KÜHL soft jacket
• E’s KUHL heavy jacket
• E’s KUHL down jacket*
• E’s campfire hoodie
• E’s ball caps x 4
• E’s hiking shoes
• E’s hiking boots
• E’s flip flops
• E’s cold weather hat
• E’s hiking hat
• E’s cold weather gloves
• E’s neck and face bandana
• E’s belt
• B’s rain jacket
• B’s cold weather jacket
• B’s shoes
• B’s sandals
• B’s bandanas
• B’s earrings
• B’s hiking boots
• B’s shower stuff
• B’s gloves
• C’s rain jacket
• C’s outdoor coat
• C’s cold weather coat
• C’s ball caps x 2
• C’s shoes
• C’s sandals
• C’s water shoes
• C’s rubber boots
• C’s changing pad
• C’s cold weather hats
• C’s lovies
• C’s gloves
• C’s blanket
• C’s swim diapers
• E, B, & C’s shirts
• E, B, & C’s pants
• E, B, & C’s shorts
• E, B, & C’s swimsuits
• E, B, & C’s socks
• E, B, & C’s sweatshirts and sweaters
• E, B, & C’s pajamas
• E & B’s Sea to Summit towels

Safety and Security

Safety and security are always a concern when we’re off the grid. Though we aren’t doomsayers, we do keep safety and security in mind at all times.

• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• C’s car seat
• C’s lifejacket
• Safety whistle
• Garmin dash cam
• Viper alarm system
• Cable lock
• Gorilla wheel locks
• E’s holster (for legal carry areas only)
• E’s pistols (for legal carry areas only)
• Ammunition (for legal carry areas only)
• Asp baton

Non-consumable Camping Supplies

This is our big list. The one we’ve whittled down over a ton of travel to what we use on the daily.

• E & B’s Big Agnes Dream Island sleeping bag
• C’s Big Agnes Lost Ranger sleeping bag
• E, B, & C’s pillows
• Picnic blanket
• Grizzly pillows for chairs
• Heavy duty blanket
• iKamper ladder cover
• iKamper vinyl rain canopy
• iKamper shoe rack
• iKamper annex
• Power cord for Altitude Industries light kit*
• Remotes for Altitude Industries light kit*
• Umbrella
• Rotopax water containers
• Mr. Heater Buddy portable propane heater
• Reusable shopping bags
• E’s Red Oxx Roadster mini rucksack*
• E’s Red Oxx Tres Hombres bag*
• B’s Red Oxx Sunchaser bag*
• C’s Red Oxx Flying Boxcar bag*
• Red Oxx Medium Aviator bag (holds our camping supplies)*
• Red Oxx Micro Manager bag (holds our travel documents)*
• C’s backpack (carries toddler stuff)
• Soft-sided cooler (carries C’s toys & books, but can serve dual purpose)
• Goal Zero mini lanterns
• J-hooks to hold lanterns to our awning
• Razor
• Toothbrushes
• Fingernail clipper
• Toenail clipper
• Sharpening stone oil
• Headlamps x 6
• Carabiners
• E’s work gloves
• E & B’s Helinox camping chairs
• C’s Helinox camping chair*
• Helinox camping table*
• Magellan camping table
• Tent stakes
• Guy ropes
• Tarps
• Flashlight
• Hammock
• Bungee cords
• Binoculars
• Shovel
• Rubber mallet
• Drilling hammer
• Extension cord
• Collapsible stool
• Mat for tent entrance
• E, B, & C’s hydroflasks
• Dyson vacuum and charger
• E’s Camelback
• B’s hiking water pack
• Thunderbox portable toilet*

Consumable Camping Supplies

On our packing list, we separate consumable camping supplies from non-consumable ones. Because we have to keep track of the inventory on our consumables.

• Tissue
• Venture Wipes*
• Chapstick
• Heavy duty trashbags
• Small plastic grocery bags
• AA and AAA batteries
• Zip ties (by the hundreds)
• Duct tape
• Electrical tape
• Super glue
• Deodorant
• Mouthwash
• Toothpaste
• Shaving cream
• Razor cartridges
• Shampoo and conditioner
• B’s face lotion
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Moleskin
• Sharpening stone
• Hatchet
• Rubber bands
• 550 paracord
• Rags
• Sharpie pens
• Fire starter packets
• Magnesium fire starter
• Grill lighters
• Insect repellant
• Head nets
• Matches
• Small sewing kit
• Disposable ponchos
• Toilet paper
• Laundry detergent
• Overlanding trash bag on spare tire
• ROK Straps

Communication & Navigation

They say communication is key. In the overland life it can certainly be a lifesaver. So don’t skimp on your comms needs. We still need to get a HAM radio down the road, but it’s a process. We look forward to adding one to our comms arsenal.

• Midland USA GXT handheld GMRS radios
• Midland USA MXT 400 40W GMRS Radio*
• Garmin InReach Explorer + Satellite Communication
• Cobra 75 CB radio
• E’s iPhone
• E’s airpods
• B’s iPhone

Electronics

We work for ourselves full-time. Electronics are a necessity to keep the wheels rolling.

• E’s Macbook Pro
• B’s Macbook Pro
• ATT router
• WeBoost antenna
• AimTom Portable Power Station Raptor*
• Altec Lansing Lifejacket Radio
• Charging cords for all electronics (iPhones, computers, radios, etc.)
• Backpack solar panel
• Goal Zero Venture 30 Waterproof Power Bank

Galley Non-consumables

Our kitchen gear we carry everywhere we go. Eating is a big part of our travels, so these items make the process much easier.

• Sea to Summit utensils
• JetBoil Genesis Basecamp cooking stove
• JetBoil Flash stove for coffee
• JetBoil Luna satellite burner
• JetBoil frying pan
• ARB 50 QT Fridge / Freezer
• Measuring cups
• MSR 4 Person Flex cooking set
• Bottle opener
• Can opener
• Corkscrew
• Yeti coffee mug
• Hydroflask wine cup
• Extendable roasting sticks
• Kebab skewer sticks
• Dish towels
• Oven mitts
• Collapsible dishwashing bucket
• Collapsible bucket
• Tongs
• Silicone spatula
• Silicone mixing spoon
• C’s utensils
• Serrated knives
• Bag clips
• Tupperware containers
• Cast iron griddle/grill top
• Collapsible 2.6 gallon water container with spigot
• Meat thermometer
• Cheese grater
• Scissors
• Ladle
• Vegetable peeler

Galley Consumables

Items from our galley that require a quantity check before each journey.

• Aluminum foil
• Water
• Napkins
• Paper towels
• 1-pound propane bottles
• Dish soap
• Sponges
• All-purpose cleaner
• Essential oils
• Ziploc bags
• Stevia
• Lighters
• Coffee
• Cooking oil
• Seasonings
• Food for meals and snacks

Recovery Gear

You’ll never need this stuff until you do. When you do, you’ll really need it. Make sure you have appropriate recovery gear for your adventures.

• 2 sets of GoTreads*
• 1 set of MaxTrax
• 2 tow straps
• Tree saver
• Winch
• Snatch block
• Safe Jack bottle jack kit*
• Safe Jack base*
• Extra D-rings (shackles)
• ARB deflator
• ARB tire repair kit
• ARB inflator gauge with digital readout

Tools

The right tool will make all the difference when you really need it. Most of your tools you won’t use regularly. But when you need them, then you need them.

• Tool roll
• Pocket knife
• Leatherman multi-tool
• Tire pressure gauge
• Ratchet straps
• Tape measure
• Multi-meter
• General tools (screw drivers, wrenches, sockets, etc.)
• Jeep-specific tools (set of tools specifically for the Jeep Wrangler)
• Deep socket set
• Torque wrench
• Winch tools
• Air compressor tools

Consumable Vehicle Supplies

Items we keep track of to make sure we have enough on hand for each trip.

• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• WD-40
• Windshield washer fluid
• Replacement fuses

Miscellaneous Gear With No Category

Don’t know where else to put these items, but they’re on our list and packed on our trips.

• Burnt Customs foot pegs for Jeep when doors are off*
• C’s carrier
• Quarters for laundry
• Envelopes and stamps

Overland Packing List Summary

This is our list. But it’s time to make your own list. Remember to consider the route, weather, etc. Hopefully our list will give you some things to consider taking along with you.

Each time you take a trip, make a list of what you took. Then after your trip, make a mark next to the things you used. Also make a list of the things you didn’t use at all. Then make one more list of the things you wished you had. This will help you hone in on what you really need for each trip.

Keep in mind that some things you didn’t use, like first aid kit, fire extinguisher, tools, recovery gear, and winch, may be must-have items you take every trip–regardless of whether you use them or not. Never take gear that can save your life off the packing list.

Another piece of advice. You don’t need a lot of overlanding stuff, but the stuff you do carry should be durable, lightweight, functional, and hardy. One of the quickest ways to ruin a trip is to have your gear fail when you’re in the middle of nowhere.

I have a “buy once, cry once” philosophy I’m a strong proponent of. Those who read my blog know this. Detractors may say, “My $8 camping chair has been great.” And if that’s your philosophy, then you do you. No harm, no foul. But for those of us who put our gear through the wringer on a daily basis, we generally make a point of buying the best gear we can afford that will last and take abuse. We don’t carry much considering our lifestyle, so the things we do carry tend to be the ones we want to last for years to come.

Finally, whenever selecting gear to add to your overlanding arsenal and packing list, consider the following:

• Weight
• Footprint
• Accessibility to the gear when needed. Where will it be stored?
• Does the gear serve more than one purpose?
• Will it be cheaper to buy one for a specific trip than cart it around each trip?
• When camping, where will it go if I need to move it out of the vehicle when setting up camp?

Hope this article has been helpful to you. Let us know if you have any questions. Until next time, keep it dirty and wheels side down.

Until next time, keep it dirty and wheels side down.
~ Eric, Brittany, and #LittleNomad