Check out these basic overlanding items for when you want to enjoy the outdoors

Thanks to the steady popularity of off-road-ready offerings, as well as smaller — more affordable — vehicles that can handle light patches of rough terrain, a growing number of Filipinos have started to take on more journeys off the beaten path.

So, for those planning to take on spontaneous weekend adventures at some of the known popular camping spots near the metro, here are a few basic overlanding items that one should consider.

Rig upgrades

First, let's talk about how we can prepare the vehicle you will use getting to your destination. Here are some upgrades you might want to give your overlanding rig: 

Skid plates

Skid plates are good for protecting the underchassis of your vehicle. This saves some components from being damged when you hit a rock on the trail. 

Awning 

For those who want to make their vehicles a rolling camping station, setting up awnings will provide some shade without the hassle of fully committing to pitching a tent.  

Mud/off-road tires 

The roads to some locations or camp sites might have some loose soil or sand. Overcoming these obstacles might become more challenging, especially when you are equipped with regular road tires. 

Cargo rack

Cargo racks will prove to be useful for accommodating portable storage boxes for when you will travel with a heavier load.  

Camping essentials

Now that you know what basic upgrades to get your rides, here are some items you need to carry on your trip. 

First aid

First and foremost, the safety of those partaking in the adventure should be of utmost importance. Since most camp sites will not have any clinics or will most likely be several exits away from a hospital, it’s imperative that one should bring along a first aid kit.

That said, the kit should contain at least an alcohol for disinfecting wounds and some bandages to patch up cuts or any form of trauma.

Hoping to be prepared for worse scenarios, squeezing in an emergency blanket as well as a tourniquet will be a good idea. The former will work to ensure that body temperatures remain stable, while the latter will help glampers deal with major bleeding.

It would also be wise to pack some over-the-counter meds in the first aid kit, such as tablets and capsules for fever, dealing with pain and nausea, as well as treatment for diarrhea.

Sleeping gear

You can always sleep in your rig, but proper sleeping gear can ensure that overlanders will have a restful sleep and be ready for the next day, whether they are engaging in some outdoor activities or just preparing for a long ride home.

One can start with light to heavy blankets, but can upgrade to sleeping bags and even fancy tents.

Foldable chairs, tables

For a more relaxing stay under the stars, a set of camping chairs and maybe some foldable tables are in order. Not only will these gears make relaxing and refueling more comfortable, but you can use these to keep things you intend to keep dry, dry.

In addition, more delicate camping items like food and water will be a few meters away from the ground.

Tools

The word tool will depend on how a person interprets the word. For some, the term will mean anything from pocket knives, multi-tools, small wrenches, and mini screwdrivers. Others can view automatic watches, tablets, pocket Wi-Fis, and satellite radios as gears.

We recommend starting with items that can help campers either set up a tent or make a fire. That said, some small mallets, foldable shovels (or a spade like Spetsnaz members do), and small blades would be good items to carry.

Matches, torch lighters, or even flint-and-steel tools can help make one’s overlanding experience more enjoyable. Some foldable stoves would also be good, allowing you to cook meals to share with other people on the campsite.

While a portable power station would appear to be a strong flex, it will make one’s stay out in the open a little more convenient.

And while you’re at it, make sure to make space for automotive tools in your rig — just in case you need to change a flat tire.

Schedule a picnic

July is picnic month and there’s no better way to spend time outdoors than camping with friends and family.

Make sure to check out the above overlanding or glamping items the next time you step outside the concrete jungle.

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