PLANNING FOR YOUR OVERLAND TRIP

Overlanding and off-roading are two very different experiences—something I realized within just three weeks of driving around the world.

As a member of an Australian 4WD club for over 25 years, our trips and holidays were all about seeking out hard off-road challenges—conquering tough terrain, testing vehicle capability, and pushing our skills to the limit. Overlanding, however, is about the journey itself. It’s long-distance travel with a focus on self-sufficiency, exploring diverse landscapes, and adapting to ever-changing conditions. While both require technical driving skills, overlanding is more about endurance, logistics, and living on the road rather than just tackling extreme tracks.

Our Holiday and weekend trips took us across a variety of challenging terrains. We tackled desert crossings with over 900 sand dunes in a 400 km stretch, ventured into rainforests during the wet season, and explored the Australian Alps, navigating steep, muddy tracks and deep river crossings. These were the types of journeys where diff locks, winches, and rock crawlers were essential, and where vehicle damage was always a possibility when negotiating countless obstacles. In such extreme conditions, a highly modified 4WD with aftermarket gear and upgraded suspension wasn’t just an advantage—it was a necessity.

 Click here to watch what I call Off Road Driving 

Below pictures of our Off Road trips

our journey is about slow, immersive travel—not just racing from one destination to the next. With a fully self-sufficient truck and a 1,000-liter water capacity, we have the freedom to stay off-grid for extended periods, whether camping on a remote beach or deep in the wilderness. That level of independence is a huge advantage, allowing us to enjoy the journey without relying on nearby towns.

It’s incredible how far a basic sedan or even a 2WD car can take you when you focus on the essentials and embrace simplicity. Many overlanders, especially younger travelers with limited budgets, are proving that with a reliable, basic vehicle, a few key tools, and the right attitude, they can experience just as much as those in high-end trucks.

Our experience with the Mitsubishi Fuso FG 84 4X4 (2009) is a perfect example of this. Despite not having all the bells and whistles of modern overlanding setups, this truck has traveled over 480,000 km, (2021) covering Africa, Middle East, Asia, Siberia, Russia, Tibet, China, South East Asia, Stan Countries, South America, Central America, USA, Canada and Alaska. All this in 12 years of hard going and 2400KG overweight. showing that it’s not about the vehicle’s price tag or complexity, but how you use it.

It also highlights how the after-market industry often builds fear around what could go wrong, pushing expensive gear and modifications. Yet, many travelers are now realizing that overlanding doesn’t require a fortune in gear.

Our experience with overland travel really highlights the resilience of both vehicles and travelers in challenging environments. The trucks overloaded with gear, yet still making it across Africa for decades, demonstrate a sort of rugged simplicity—often with just a hammer and a spanner for repairs. Breakdowns can happen, no matter how meticulously you maintain or modify your vehicle. That’s part of the adventure.

The contrast between older, simpler vehicles and modern high-tech ones like the Euro 6 or Unimogs is crucial. While newer vehicles may offer more advanced technology, they can create significant challenges in remote areas where parts and expertise are scarce. Being complete A Technical I have had not yet been in a situation where the mechanical problems could not be solved.  I don’t even carry spares anymore except fan belts and some filters. This decision is based on past issues and the ease of getting spare parts flown in when required.

We rely on local mechanics not only do they have expertise it also helps you connect with the community and makes it easier to find parts and services you might need. I trust their skills—local knowledge is often invaluable in these more remote areas.

In Africa the saying is: “we repair everything with a hammer and a spanner!” But if you choose for a highly modified vehicle or a brand new Unimog as your overland vehicle, a Euro 6 or other high-tech vehicle, you could have issues because of all this new technology is not available in many countries.

Tyres:

if you travel on a budget, 4WD All-Terrain tyres will do the job. If you can afford it, take chains as they work perfect in the mud. and Max Trax if you get stuck in sand, snow or mud.

Are You Ready?

The most important question you need to ask yourself is: Am I ready? Over the past 21 years of my travels, I’ve heard countless excuses from people who never take the plunge. Some love the idea of traveling but are more interested in mechanics or technology than the journey itself. Others hesitate to leave their jobs or feel insecure, fearing they can’t handle the challenges or corruption they might face along the way.

If your answer is YES, I AM READY, then don’t procrastinate. Go now before it’s too late! Stop paying attention to all the doom and gloom stories. Most of them come from people who have never traveled further than Morocco, Turkey, or Tunisia.

How Much Planning Is Really Needed?

Traveling around the world is easier than it seems. You can make it as complicated as you want, but overcomplicating things will only hold you back.

There’s a wealth of information available online, but locals and experienced travelers often know the best spots—many of which never make it into tourist guides. From 1981 to 2008, we relied on paper mud maps in Australia. In Africa, we used Tracks4Africa; in the Middle East and Asia (2004–2016), The HUBB; and in South and Central America (2016–2023), iOverlander. However, in North America, we stopped using iOverlander, as many so-called “wild camps” or “boondocking” spots were just side streets. We prefer true bush camping, and the USA offers plenty of great options.

It’s important to keep in mind that some platforms have become more commercialized or focused on vehicle sales. The best advice always comes from travelers currently on the road and the locals.

Above all, ensuring your vehicle is in top condition is crucial. I recommend a full 100,000 km service before setting off, along with a new set of tires. Also, carefully consider your accommodation setup—whether a one-pole tent, a rooftop tent, or an in-vehicle setup. Before committing, take everything on a two-week trial run to ensure it works as expected.

Budgeting and Essentials

Make sure you have the financial resources for an extended trip, especially in case something goes wrong.

• Notify your credit card company of the countries you’ll be visiting (at least for the next 3 months).
• Get an international driver’s license, arrange any necessary visas, set up insurance, and handle shipping and the Carnet if needed.
• Look through various travel forums for commonly asked questions.

My Biggest Mistakes

One of my biggest mistakes was buying a new truck. The warranty was void the moment I left Australia, even though the South African Fuso dealer confirmed the problem was a factory fault. (Fuso and Mercedes do not offer international service.) I had this issue with Fuso in South Africa in 2010 and Mercedes Trucks in India in 2014.

Travel Tips

• Expect things to go wrong: Allow plenty of time for delays and setbacks. They will happen.
• Vehicle maintenance is key: Never leave if there’s a problem with your vehicle. It will only get worse down the road.
• Avoid flashy jewelry: Keep a low profile when it comes to valuables.
• Make copies of your important documents: Copies of insurance, licenses, and travel documents should be with you at all times, and keep another set at home. At roadblocks, always hand over copies, never originals.
• Stay calm at borders: If you’re stuck at a corrupt roadblock or long border crossing, don’t show that you’re in a hurry. Pull out your chair, have a coffee, and relax. Patience is crucial.
• Don’t overbuy equipment: Many salespeople will tell you about the “must-have” gear, but most of it you’ll never use. Trust me, a lot of it is unnecessary.
• Vehicle size matters: The bigger and heavier your vehicle, the harder it is to handle off-road. Consider your needs carefully before going big.
• Carry a marriage certificate: In some Muslim countries (and others), you might be asked for a marriage certificate when booking a hotel. Always have a copy on hand.
• List important contact numbers: Keep a list of important numbers, like emergency contacts, embassies, and the insurance company.

BORDER CROSSINGS AND POLICE CHECKPOINTS

Border crossings and police checkpoints can vary significantly, with some being quick and straightforward, while others may take hours. Our longest wait occurred at the Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan border, where we were delayed for 24 hours. The main issue was a demand for money. Later, we discovered that the EU had introduced new rules requiring Uzbek drivers to pay a 400 Euro fee to enter Europe, and we were told we needed to pay the same amount, although no receipt was provided. Fortunately, after negotiating with the help of Russian truck drivers, we were able to reach an agreement the following day. and able to enter.

When crossing borders, it’s important to allow ample time. If a border is nearing closing time, things may speed up, but this can mean driving in the dark or even spending the night in the customs area. Be wary of fixers, as they often work closely with customs or immigration officials and may try to take advantage of the situation.

“When traveling, you might be asked to pay for additional insurance or road tax. If you already have insurance, stand your ground and always ask for receipts. However, it’s not always guaranteed that you’ll get one. No receipt no pay is our strategie. When it comes to police checks, some are legitimate, but others may not be. My best advice is to stay adaptable and assess each situation as it comes. In our 21 years of travel, I’ve only had to pay twice—both times when I was at fault—and I received a receipt for each payment.” ( Once in Ghana and once in Sudan} I lost count of the amount of times we were stopped during road blocks where militairy, border guards and police tried to get money. My Advise, Staying steady and waiting it out is the way to go. Keeping your composure can make all the difference, and often, it’s just a matter of not giving them the reaction they’re hoping for. After a while, they  lose interest if you stay calm and don’t engage too much. stay calm, dont give in pull out the chairs and be patient

Remember, not all police officers are bad—some are simply bored or curious, especially if they’ve never encountered a vehicle like yours. A word of caution: never let police inside your vehicle without you being present.

Shipping Advice

The best advice I can offer: always use a reputable carrier and a local shipping agent. Whether you choose container shipping or RoRo depends on the size of your vehicle. There’s plenty of information available online and on various forums. While break-ins are rare on board the ship, they can occur at the wharf during loading or unloading. If you’re shipping from Australia, use an Australian shipping agent; from Colombia, a Colombian shipping agent; from Belgium, a Belgian shipping agent—and so on. Local expertise can make the process much easier and safer.

TRAVEL ADVISE

If we would have waited to have the negative travel advises to be lifted in the many countries we visited, we would still be at home.

Traveling around the world in a motorhome can be a safe and rewarding adventure, but it depends on various factors, including route planning, local conditions, vehicle preparedness, and personal awareness.

1. Choosing Safe Routes & Destinations

• Political Stability: Some regions may be unsafe due to conflicts, or political unrest.

• Road Conditions: Poor roads, extreme weather, or natural disasters (flooding, landslides) can be a challenge.

• Border Crossings: Some borders have delays, corruption, or strict vehicle import/export rules.

2. Vehicle Security & Reliability

• Maintenance: A well-maintained vehicle reduces the risk of breakdowns Our truck is serviced every 15000-20000KM.

• Fuel & Supplies: in 21 years of travel accross 144 countries we never had any issues. Once we travel into remote areas we always filled our tanks. This would give us a 2000KM radius

3. Personal Safety & Awareness

• Crime Prevention: Avoid displaying valuables, and trust your instincts.

• Local Laws & Customs: Understand driving regulations, visa requirements, and cultural norms. Always remember you are the guest in their country.

• Health & Medical Access: Carry medical supplies, have travel insurance.

4. Climate & Environmental Challenges

• Extreme Weather:

• Traveling in extreme conditions like Siberia, Northern Russia, the Far North of Europe, or Iceland in winter demands serious preparation. We equipped our truck with floor, central, and engine heating to stay warm in freezing temperatures.

  When traveling at high altitudes over 4,000 meters, be prepared for a few unexpected challenges. Cooking takes much longer due to the lower air pressure, and you’ll lose power, which affects the performance of appliances. For example, your coffee machine might not work, and even simple items like potato chip packets can burst open due to the change in pressure. At 5,600 meters, we even had toothpaste explode! It’s fascinating how the environment influences everything, from the way we cook to the condition of everyday products.

  These experiences have taught us to be adaptable and well-prepared.

• Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods can disrupt travel plans for those with a thight itenary

5. Community & Support Networks

• Overland Networks: Joining forums like iOverlander, Facebook groups, ( be aware more and more become commercial) or are full of keyboard warriors. For up to date advise speak to the locals or those overlanders exploring the area at the time. local 4WD clubs can provide real-time updates in the more build up areas, and support too.

BUDGET

Budgeting for long-term travel is highly personal, as each person’s needs and preferences are different. Some travelers live with the bare minimum, while others enjoy luxury and shop in major cities. The two largest expenses tend to be visas and fuel, both of which vary depending on your nationality and the countries you’re visiting.

For example,

AFRICA

spending time in places like Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater in Kenya can quickly eat into your budget.

ASIA

Tourist areas are more expensive, but the neighbouring suburbs or villages away from the tourist areas are cheap.

China is very expensive due to the cost of the mandatory guide (we called him the spy)

Central and South America,

Campgrounds (sometimes just parking lots) can be quite costly, though bush camping can help you save money. Avoid paying in USD use local currency. My advise Bushcamp.

Mexico

Overpriced RV parks, mostly run by expats from the USA, Internet is poor and electricity is on/off. My advise, Solar, Starlink and Bush Camp, meet the locals super friendly and helpfull.

USA

Amazing National parks in the Western and Southern Part, Lots of BLM land and free bush camping. Florida was a little harder but Walmart is a great option. East coast sofar we have had no issues bushcamping however in Washington DC we booked campsite based on very few locations where we could park for 3 and 4 days. BUT at 106USD per night. THIS IS 178.00 Australian. Amazing and not good for budget travellers. In my book RV parks in the USA are overpriced.

OTHER

Once you have a rough itinerary (and trust me, it will change!), you’ll get a sense of the kilometers you’ll travel, which will give you an estimate of how much fuel you’ll need. A useful tip is to research fuel prices online—this can help you determine where to fill up and whether it makes sense to invest in a larger fuel tank for cheaper refueling opportunities.

Other major expenses to consider include airfare, shipping, and insurance. At home, don’t forget to account for property costs like rates, power, and phone bills if you own property. It’s important to realize that travel often costs more than expected, especially considering the rising prices since we began traveling in 2004.

HOW TO SAVE ON INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING COST

I wouldn’t recommend selling your property to fund travel. Property values typically increase over time, and having a home to return to is invaluable, especially if your travels don’t go as planned or you face health issues. Rent your property for additional income, is a option

Even if you think you could do without a house, it’s important to have somewhere to return to when your adventure ends. If you sell everything, consider relying on friends or renting when you get back.

HOW TO SET A BUDGET

Here are a few additional considerations that could help refine your budget:

1. The Kilometres you plan to travel will give you the estimated fuel cost, you are able to find the fuel cost per country on the web. The longer you travel the lower the daily cost is.
2. Countries you will visit and if Visa’s are required (cost of visas are quite high for some nationalities.)
3. Shipping Cost. As discussed above. But for those doing short term overlanding IE 6 Months, London to Cape Town and then ship back, same for South America or London to Australia. your daily cost will be higher
4. All Risk or Third Party insurance. Purchase insurance at each border or buy insurance in Europe, or for parts of Africa, or South America?
5. Bush Camping or camp grounds, or a mix. Hostels and Hotels?
6. National Parks are getting very expensive especially in Tanzania and Kenya. My suggestion is to get your wild life fix in South Africa and Namibia.
7. Food and Beverage. Live simple or as a king? Look at your current spend at home. If you live in Australia, Europe or the USA and would like to maintain the same life style while on the road, you find the cost is lower in Africa and Asia and cheap when buying at the local markets. (supermarkets in expensive shopping centres or those catering for the expats are expensive anywhere). USA is crazy expensive.
8. Repairs and Maintenance. Do a 100.000km service before you leave, fit new tyres, new shock absorbers, check other suspension. New tyres, All -Terrain tyres are the type I prefer. If your vehicle is in good order cost should be no more than doing the same KM in your home country. BUT never say never, so have a budget for repairs and maintenance.  
9. Accommodation: bush camping is the big money-saver, but depending on where you are, staying in overland camps can still be affordable and offer useful amenities. in Africa and Asia, Many overlanders also use apps like iOverlander or Tracks for Africa to find free and cheap camping spots. Be aware in the USA wild camping means many times somewhere in a side street?? nothing to do with bush camping.
10. Health and Insurance: Traveling long-term requires good travel insurance that covers everything from medical emergencies to vehicle breakdowns. This can add up, but it’s essential for peace of mind.
11. Contingencies: Unexpected situations, from vehicle breakdowns to changes in your itinerary, will inevitably come up. Having a buffer fund for these moments can make a significant difference.

With long-term, overland travel,  planning for unexpected costs and not relying on the sale of property is particularly valuable. It’s important to keep in mind that while travel can be a life-changing adventure, it also requires thorough financial planning and a flexible mindset to adapt to the realities of living on the road. We would never recommend to sell property to fund your travel, property is a source of income and increases in value over the years

Cheapest Overland Countries

Central Asia, Russia, Mongolia, Stan Countries, South East Asia, India, Nepal, Iran, Sudan are the cheapest overland Countries.

The rising costs of travel is becoming more noticeable, once you leave Africa or Asia for South or Central America.

Africa is getting more expensive. (National Parks in both Kenya and Tanzania are now beyond affordable for the budget overlander) South Africa and Namibia are still very affordable in particular when you live in the USA or Europe.

South and Central America are much more expensive when coming from Africa or Asia. After expressing frustration about the high costs in Mexican tourist areas, we arrived in the USA., where prices have skyrocketed. It’s no surprise that Americans think places like Mexico and South America are cheap by comparison.

China and Tibet are costly due to the requirement of hiring a guide, which can cost around 500 USD per day, making independent travel nearly impossible. but you are able to share cost if travelling in a group.

FUEL

I prefer diesel. Except for in Uzbekistan (no Diesel in 2013 only on the black market), plenty of fuel is availability around the world (countries we visited to date Feb 2025)

DAILY DISTANCE

The daily distance in overland travel varies greatly depending on circumstances. Some travelers cover vast distances quickly—driving from Cape Town to London or from Canada to Ushuaia in just six months—often skipping many experiences along the way. Others, like us, take years to explore in depth.

In Africa, we spent four years on the road, averaging just 68 km per day, yet still couldn’t see everything. In South America (2016–2020), we averaged 112 km per day, including long days of up to 550 km in Brazil due to visa restrictions. We spent 45 days on the East Coast and another 45 days in the Northeast and central Brazil. After 44 days on the East Coast, we crossed into French Guiana, then traveled through Suriname and Guyana before re-entering Brazil four months later.

In Central America, we spent three years (six months traveling, six months at home) and still only saw 50% of what we planned. Since entering the USA in 2023, we have explored the western, central, and southern regions. In 2025, we are traveling the East Coast. By the time we reach Canada, we estimate having driven 30,000 km across the USA in 18 months of travel (three six-month periods), averaging just under 60 km per day. This lower mileage reflects the extensive time spent in national parks.

While the USA’s interstates make it possible to travel quickly between highlights, we prioritize deeper exploration over speed.

TRAVEL ALONE OR IN A GROUP

because of the challenges that come with group travel. Differences in pace, priorities, budgets, and even just daily routines can strain relationships, no matter how well-intentioned the group is. When you’re on the road for an extended time, small disagreements can escalate, and navigating those dynamics can be exhausting.

We’ve always valued the freedom to follow our own path, make spontaneous decisions, and adapt to whatever comes our way. That being said, we’ve also made lifelong friends through overlanding—people we’ve met around a campfire, shared a beer with after a tough day on the road, or helped out in a tricky situation. The best part is, when you travel solo, those connections are organic, rather than forced by the structure of a group.

THE BENEFITS OF TRAVELING ALONE

1. Stop where you like
2. Stay for a while if you like a location
3. Sure, travelling alone can feel stressful at times, but it is all part of the overlanding experience.
4. You will meet a lot more locals, the best thing of travelling around the world. (integration)
5. No group discussions. Imagine asking 6 people where they want to go…..
6. Lots of wasted time by arguing, toilet stops, etc.
7. Flexibility, change plans, stay longer, leave when you want etc.
8. You don’t have to wait for anyone. EVER.

MONEY

in most places around the world cash is still king. (Except USA and most parts of Europe) ATM machines are readily available in most countries, however in Sudan and Iran we had issues. The best deals are available on the black market but be aware, some money changers are con artists, and away from the borders deals are always better.  

INSURANCE

Initially we were fully insured with Alessi in Holland (Australian Registered vehicle), however the cost was that high that after 3 years we decided to start buying insurance at borders. Please note the international insurance is invalid if you travel in countries where there is a negative travel advise.

For private health cover: Find out what you are covered for or if you are covered when travelling overseas. We are using World Nomads insurance for the last 15 years and they seem to be okay. My eye operation in Argentina was 100% covered in a private hospital including taxi fares, and if I wanted hotel accomodation.

HEALTH MATTERS

When traveling to regions affected by Malaria, it’s essential to carry your prescribed medications, properly labeled, along with any necessary documentation signed by your GP, in case questions arise at border controls. We chose not to take Malaria medication during our extended stays in Malaria-prone areas, but we did carry a self-test kit. Our reasoning was that, without medication, doctors can more easily identify the specific type of Malaria. Clary contracted Malaria in 2016 and received treatment, which cleared it up within five days. Malaria in Africa is often compared to the flu in places like Europe, Australia, or the USA—though, of course, many children tragically die due to lack of access to medical care. I highly recommend taking a first aid course, including CPR, as it’s incredibly valuable when traveling in remote areas. The cost of medical treatment in the USA is high make sure you have adequate insurance

CHOOSING YOUR ROUTE

This depends on you, your time frame and the area you like to explore. The longer the trip, the harder it would be to travel in the best seasons.  Consider the type of roads you are going to travel. It is now possible to drive on the bitumen from Europe to Cape Town, from Cape Town to Singapore and from Ushuaia to Fairbanks in Alaska all on the bitumen. In Africa you can follow what is know as the Coca Cola route and in the Americas the Pan Americana all on bitumen. But most can also be done away from the bitumen but off course at a much slower pace and a much better way to meet the locals.

MAPS AND NAVIGATION

In the truck I carry road maps, which I use to plan the route and sightseeing points. I carry a Garmin on the wind screen and a Panasonic Toughbook on the dash. Sofar Garmin has been able to guide me all around Africa, Europe,  Asia and South America. In Africa I also used Tracks for Africa in 2010-2011-2015  and 2016, Since we arrived in South America we are using the iOverlander App. In South America I have used iOverlander a lot and it has provided us with some great bush camp spots. One problem is that some input is over 4 or 5 years old and no longer correct. My suggestion: ignore the old entries.

When exploring real off road, I suggest you use Topographic maps showing terrain steepness. Our Toughbook has both maps (we used the digital maps from  http://www.bsmap.de). Lately I overlander has been sold to Garmin and it appears updates are a lot slower?

I have given up on Ioverlander in the USA as most wild camps are parking lots, or in side streets (BLM Land is free everywhere) and if nothing is available in the woods we park at a Cracker Barrel or Walmart. Roadside rest stops are to0 noisy.

PLANNING AN AROUND THE WORLD TRIP IN STAGES

HOW LONG DO YOU TRAVEL THE WORLD

We initially set out on a five-year journey around the world after spending four years exploring Australia by road. That plan extended to ten years, and now, in 2025, we are in our 21st year, with the goal of reaching 25 years on the road.

This lifestyle is possible if you’re retired or semi-retired, but it also demands adaptability, resilience, and a deep passion for exploration. Some travelers complete a round-the-world trip in 12 months, while others take 30 years.

Our original plan allocated one year for Africa and the Middle East, but we ended up staying for four—and still haven’t covered the entire continent. The same happened in Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The more we travel, the more we realize how much there is left to explore.

IF YOU DO HAVE THE TIME

My suggestion: Africa minimum 2 years, Central Asia minimum 1 year, Russia, Mongolia, China minimum 1 year, South East Asia minimum 1 year, India, Pakistan, Iran minimum 1 year, South America minimum 2 years, Central America minimum 1 year, USA minimum 2 years, Canada and Alaska minimum 2 years, Europe minimum 2 years. All up this is 15 years!! and it will only allow you to see some parts of the continents. In fairness this is only possible for a few of us or those that are retired.

If you’re limited on time, consider traveling for 4, 6, 10, or even 13 weeks, then securely park your vehicle and fly home. You can resume your journey the following year, making the most of your time and budget while still enjoying an extended overland adventure.

Many travelers choose to explore in stages, leaving their vehicle behind and returning the following year to continue their journey. However, shorter trips tend to be more expensive due to high costs associated with long distances driving, Airfares, storage and Insurance.

ACCOMMODATION

This is subject to your required level of luxury and mobility.

A Tent offers lightweight accommodation. For us important is ample fly screens, sewn in heavy duty floor. Investment in a heavy duty one pole tent is my recommendation (they last, just look at the safari companies).

A Roof top tent. Not a great idea when you camp at camps/caravan parks and an absolute pain if you need to get to the toilet at night (my view). Not very good in strong winds and inclement weather.

A Camper trailer. The favourite form of camping in South Africa and Australia but it would not be my form of overlanding.

A Caravan. Perfect when travelling around on paved and gravel roads but hard to pull through soft sand, mud, on the beach or bull dust. Would not be my preferred form of overland travel and it would very much limit travel in the villages of South Asia and Central Africa.

A Camper. My preferred form of overlanding due to the extra comfort, no need to have a 4X4 or a huge truck. Based on the route you choose it can be done by any motor home.

COOKING

 Preferred form of cooking is on a campfire in the bush. Next is the gas or diesel cooker.

REFRIGERATION

Subject to space you can never have enough of this (my view). I would recommend an Engel Fridge, if this is above your budget, look for a great sturdy esky (Please Note: Ice is not always available). In a motorhome fit the biggest possible fridge and freezer (or 2) you can afford/fit. When using an Engel type fridge invest in a dual battery system.

POWER SOURCES

the convenience of solar/inverters for a more reliable and quiet power source, especially for long-term travel and living. A must when you prefer to bush camp when you’re off the grid, avoiding the noise and hassle of a generator. inside we have multi-use universal power plugs, ensuring flexibility while travelling around the world with different types of appliances.

CLOTHING

What should you take?

Simply as little as possible. I prefer khaki. I wear this since 1982 as it does not show all the dirt and I have 5 pair of shirts and shorts. In hot climates use loose, baggy cotton clothes, while close-knit woollens are ideal for cold areas. We use thermal underwear in the arctic. Hats are a must for hot and cold areas. Wind and water proof clothing for those miserable days and in the arctic and at least one pair of sturdy shoes.

PHOTOS AND MOVIES

We are not professional travellers, our pictures and movies are designed for ourselves, family and friends. We carry 3 cameras and use our Samsung phone and a Go Pro for movies.  We keep a website and have a face book site

OVERNIGHT SPOTS

We used “Tracks for Africa” in Africa. In Asia, the Middle East, India and Nepal we stayed outside villages or towns, but also used Truck stops or Fuels stations if we were unable to find a nice bush camp near a creek, a quarry, remote beach, or any other idyllic spot.

Never drive too late as this way you may finish up at a truck stop or Fuel station. in South America we always looked up iOverlander where possible. In the USA wild camping on the app most of the time mean camping in a side street. if we cant find a bush camp we prefer the walmart carpark doing shopping at the same time, or a cracker barrel restaurant

WHAT IS IMPORTANT IN YOUR VEHICLE

1. A Fire Extinguisher, if you drive a camper have an extra one for the cabin
2. Cargo Barrier in your 4X4 Landcruiser or Nissan. This will prevent injury in the event of an accident or emergency braking if objects come loose in the rear.
3. Build in Storage systems
4. Comfortable seats and sheep skin covers (Not White)
5. if you drive a camper, a comfortable seating area, Toilet, shower and inside space for bikes or motorbike

TOOLS AND SPARES

I have stopped carrying everything listed in the various magazines as it appeared over the years most  spare parts we hardly ever used ($$$$$$$$)

At present we carry the following:

A complete tool kit, Hunting knife, Wire brush, Axe, Hammer, Standard Jack, Air jack, (we have air on the truck), Pipe to undo wheel nuts, 3 spare tyres (one on the rim), Since we travel in the USA only one spare tyre. Puncture repair kit, set of various belts, Fuel-, oil- and air filters, fuses, heavy duty battery jumper leads, Radiator and other hoses, Engine oil and others, hose clamps, Ducting tape, electrical insulation tape.

TYRES

My experience with various types of terrain during our travels. The majority of overlanding is done on roads, gravel, or sandy tracks, so All Terrain (AT) tyres would be more than sufficient for most situations. The wear on tyres i have noticed in South America is also a common challenge when you do a lot of road travel,

Switching to All Terrain tyres in the USA was a good decision, considering the different road conditions there. an interesting adjustment changing from the XZL to all terrain tyres was the noise reduction.

Below is my view

1. Chunky and Aggressive tyres are useful in mud and snow (until they clog) in countries like Central Africa, Outback Australia and the Amazon
2. Most effective mud tyres in the mud are those with the lugs on the side
3. A lug free thread pattern (highway pattern) is the best for sand surfaces.

At home in Australia I have 2 sets of tyres, one for real off road when we travel up Cape York in the wet season or after rain (Mud Tyres) one set for beach and gravel road driving (All Terrain)

• Mud Tyres (Wet Season/Cape York): Perfect for sticky, wet conditions when you need maximum traction in slippery, off-road environments. These tyres excel in muddy, loose terrain, but they can dig in quickly on soft surfaces like sand if they’re too aggressive.

• All-Terrain Tyres (Beach & Gravel Roads): These tyres offer a balanced approach for most of your driving, providing good grip on varied terrains, from sandy beaches to rough gravel roads. They’re less aggressive than mud tyres, so they offer better floatation on sand, and they last longer on bitumen.

Key Considerations:

• Tyre Pressure: Most drivers overlook this, but it’s vital to deflate when tackling soft surfaces (like sand) to increase the tyre’s footprint and reduce digging in. Inflating back up on hard surfaces is equally important to prevent excess wear.

• Load Rating: Overloading is a common issue for many travellers, the importance of choosing tyres with a suitable load rating. For a heavily loaded 4WD, like your Landcruiser, a load rating of at least 124 (1600kg per tyre) is ideal to handle both the vehicle’s weight. In our truck the  load ratings is  5000kg per tyre are even better.

Spare Tyres: Carrying a single spare is generally enough, provided the size and type are widely available in the countries you’ll be travelling through. If not, an additional 2 spare tyres without the rim is a good backup, ensuring you’re not caught off guard.

Tyre Rotation: It’s also a good practice to rotate your tyres regularly to ensure even wear, especially when driving through diverse conditions. While I replace my tyres every 10,000 km, to extend their life and ensure more balanced wear on the Mud tyres.

Final Thoughts: In the end, all-terrain tyres seem to be the sweet spot for 80-90% of our driving on bitumen, in South Central and North America, where potholes and uneven surfaces present more challenges than dirt roads.

Our truck has a rear axle weight of 6800kg. I carry tyres with a 5000kg load rating each.this will give you more strength, possible a little harder ride but who cares. Potholes and uneven surfaces present more challenges than dirt roads.

Do not drive on odd size tyres as most probably they are not available once outside Europe, USA or Australia and freight is expensive.

TRAFFIC RULES

Ensure you understand the local traffic rules even if no-one seems to be concerned about these traffic rules……

PEOPLE YOU MEET

They will become your major source of information and many have also become friends for life and are stopover points while exploring the world. They can also change the way you perceive the world. You vision adjusts regarding the news when it is presented in your home country, foreign aid and/or if it is making life better for those who need it most.

OVERLAND ROUTES

The word “Overlanding” originated in Australia and the term was used by stockmen who drove live stock to the markets in the late 1800’s. Some would spend years to move cattle for over 4000km.

In Australia the well known overland route is the Canning Stock Route, opened by Alfred Canning between 1906 and 1910. In the 1940s and 1950s Len Beadell opened many roads in the Australian Outback and many if not all are still used today by Australian overlanders. Gunbarrel Highway, Anne Beadell Highway, Connie Sue Highway are just to name a few.

Since the Camel trophy in the 1980’s overlanding is getting ever more popular.

In Europe Overlander meetings are held more than once a month, Overland forums and Facebook sites make it very easy to find any information you are looking for. Just be aware that commerce also has come to Face book and forums.

Australia has significant industries concentrating on after-market off road equipment. In Europe the building of overland vehicles is a growing industry.

South Africa and Australia are the fore runners of vehicle fit outs when it comes down to Land cruisers and other larger 4WD brands.

OVERLAND ROUTES

The Canning Stock route, Australia

The Silk Road, connecting the Mediterranean with Iran (Persia) and China, however today it could be 2 different routes: North through Russia and Kazakhstan or South through Turkey, Iran, Pakistan and North India to Urumqi and Xian in China.

Cape Town to Cairo, Africa 10000km

Cape Town to Nairobi, also called the Coca Cola trail due to the large amount of commercial overland trucks using this route.

PASSPORTS

we have a business passport (60 pages) and a second passport so we can obtain visa’s by sending away the second passport if need be. Most countries require you to have at least 6 months left on the validity of your passport

VISAS

We have been obtaining Visa’s at the borders with exception of the following countries:

Note: We travel on a Dutch, EU passport

1. Ethiopia (in 2010 we were required to send our passport to Brussels), but obtained the second one in 2016 in Nairobi.
2. Saudi Arabia (2010) at the embassy in Khartoum
3. China Chinese embassy in The Hague (2011), Chinese Embassy in Bishkek (2013 in Kyrgyzstan)
4. Angola  Windhoek (Namibia 2015) refused, but asked to come back 2 weeks later.
5. Russia The Hague (Netherlands 2011 & 2013)
6. Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan– Netherlands (2013)
7. Uzbekistan, Brussels (2013)
8. Pakistan, New Delhi (2014)
9. Iran, Pakistan, Lahore (2014)

VACCINATIONS

Subject to where you travel there could be many you need. Visit your local travel clinic and ask your doctor. Do not just look at those required to obtain entry but also look for those that are recommended for your own health and safety. Take the vaccinations at least 3 months in advance as some needles require a booster or a second shot.