How Not to Camp: My Funniest Overlanding Stories

We’ve all had those camping trips that didn’t exactly go according to plan — and I’ve definitely had my fair share! In this video, I’m sharing some of my funniest (and most ridiculous) overlanding and camping stories — from gear fails to campsite disasters and everything in between.Whether you’re new to overlanding or a seasoned camper, you’ll probably relate to at least a few of these moments… or at least laugh at my expense! 😂Grab a drink, kick back by the fire (or your screen), and let’s swap stories about what not to do when you’re out in the wild.A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

Packing for an overlanding trip can be one of the most satisfying parts of the adventure—or one of the most frustrating if you don’t have a system. In this video, I’m walking you through exactly how I pack for my overlanding trips, from organizing gear to saving space and keeping everything easy to find once I’m out on the trail.I’ll share the packing strategy I’ve developed after years of camping, testing gear, and learning the hard way, plus a few tips and tricks that make setup and teardown way faster. Whether you’re just getting started in overlanding or you’re looking to refine your setup, these ideas will help you stay organized, comfortable, and ready for whatever the trip throws at you.What I cover in this episode:* Options for setups (modular to built in)* What I keep in the truck full time* What I pack a week out* What I pack the day ofHopefully this is all helpful! If so, scroll down to follow along on other social channels for all the ATO content!Here are links to all the products mentioned in the episode:My RTT:  https://shrsl.com/4xfbmMy 270 Awning:  https://reignoutdoor.com/Wise owl microfiber towels:  https://amzn.to/4mPRzohSea to summit air mattress (great for cold weather camping):  https://amzn.to/3L2bX8pHest Pillow:  https://amzn.to/4mTjtjdHest Comforter (double):  https://amzn.to/4q0mcKuIgnik firecan:  https://amzn.to/4q1JgZvCamplux fire pit/stove:  https://collabs.shop/dinlrtCamco leveling blocks:  https://amzn.to/4h3IOWnHelinox chair:  https://amzn.to/46J1KGBHelinox Table:  https://amzn.to/3KFYiE4Wolfbox jump starter:  https://amzn.to/46J2xHzBougeRV heated blanket:  https://amzn.to/3J3wrgvBougeRV small lights:  https://amzn.to/46J30tjBougeRV extendable lantern:  https://amzn.to/4h2ZopBStarlink accessories:  https://tinyurl.com/hyv5k2rbPeakdo battery for Starlink:  https://amzn.to/4gZyBu2Moon shade:  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherA huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

If you’ve ever wondered what an Overland Expo is all about—or if you’re planning to attend your first one—this episode is for you. I break down exactly what happens at these events, why they’re so popular, and how you can get the most out of the experience. From classes and vendors to rigs and community, I’ll share my tips for navigating the expo without getting overwhelmed.But here’s the key: while expos are packed with gear, ideas, and inspiration, they’re not the same thing as actual overlanding. In this episode, I talk about the big differences between walking the rows of rooftop tents and actually putting your rig down a dirt road.Whether you’re new to overlanding or a seasoned explorer curious about the expo scene, this podcast/video will help you know what to expect, how to prepare, and how to enjoy every minute.A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

When most people think about overlanding, they think about the gear — the rooftop tents, the recovery boards, the fridges, and the rigs. But in this video, I want to talk about something even more important than the latest equipment: your health.I’ve realized that no matter how dialed in my setup is, none of it matters if I’m not healthy enough to actually get out there and enjoy the trails, campfires, and long days behind the wheel. I’ll share some personal thoughts on why taking care of your body and mind is the real foundation for more adventures, more miles, and more memories.So if you’re like me and love overlanding, but also want to keep doing it for years to come, this video might give you the perspective you didn’t know you needed.Don’t forget to add this podcast to your favorites or leave a 5 star review if you enjoy content!A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

When I hit the trails, I never imagined I’d be facing something far scarier than rough terrain or bad weather. Out of nowhere, a sudden heart blockage stopped me in my tracks and led to open heart surgery. One day I was planning my next overlanding trip… the next, I was fighting just to have the chance to go on another one.In this video, I open up about the reality of what happened, how quickly life can change, and how close I came to losing the adventures I love—and nearly my life. This isn’t just a story about overlanding; it’s a warning about paying attention to your health, even when you don't think anything can happen to you.If you’ve ever taken your health for granted or ignored pain or symptoms, I hope my story makes you pause, reflect, and take care of yourself—because you never know when life might throw you a detour you never expected.A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

If you’ve been thinking about getting a weBoost or Starlink to stay connected off-grid, this video could save you time and money. I’ve used both for overlanding, camping, and working remotely, and they each have their strengths and weaknesses.In this episode, I break down:-How WeBoost and Starlink actually work in the real world-Which one performs better in different types of terrain-The real costs (upfront and ongoing)-Which one makes more sense for overlanding, RVing, or travel-My personal setup and lessons learnedWhether you need internet for work, navigation, or just streaming Netflix in the middle of nowhere, this side-by-side comparison will help you decide which is best for you.If you’ve used weBoost or Starlink yourself, drop a comment and let me know your experience—I know there's going to be some differing opinions on this episode.Here are links to the products mentioned in the episode:Starlink Mini: https://amzn.to/47mTMUcMagnetic aluminum mount for Starlink: https://amzn.to/46OuzStPeakdo Battery for Starlink Mini: https://www.peakdo.com/PeakDo-LinkPower-Power-Bank-and-Mount-for-Starlink-Mini-p6467650.htmlweBoost: https://amzn.to/3Jdfa4gweBoost Antenna: https://amzn.to/41DP1BTweBoost Antenna Mount: https://amzn.to/47sIhdVA huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

I’ve been seeing more and more hate in the overlanding YouTube space lately—people leaving nasty comments, complaining about video topics, or acting like creators are just out to sell stuff. So in this episode, I’m speaking honestly about it and how people are entitled to their opinions, but also that there are a lot of factors that most people don't understand or know about.If you don’t like a video… skip it. If you don’t vibe with a creator… don’t watch. It’s that simple. I’m sharing some behind-the-scenes insight into what influences the content we make, the balance between passion and sustainability, and how this whole thing really works from the creator’s side.Honestly, the goal is to have a really honest and fun conversation, not to argue or belittle people. Let’s build a community that supports, encourages, and helps others get outdoors, explore, and learn. If we want overlanding to keep growing in a healthy way, we’ve got to stop tearing each other down.Thanks for listening—and if you’ve ever left a kind comment or shared a video, just know it means more than you think.A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

Ever wonder if it really makes sense to have two vehicles—one for daily driving and one built for overlanding? In this video, I’m sharing why I chose to go that route, what it’s been like living with both, and the pros and cons that come with this setup.I break down how having a dedicated overlanding rig has allowed me to build it exactly how I want—without worrying about commuting, parking garages, or fuel economy. At the same time, having a separate daily driver keeps things practical (while giving me a back up if I need to run some errands while the "rig" is down for mods or maintenance).If you’re torn between building an all-in-one rig or splitting the duties between two vehicles, this video is for you. Let’s talk real-world tradeoffs, what it’s costing me, and whether I’d make the same decision again.Let me know what setup you run in the comments—I’d love to hear how others are solving this!A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQZ1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan):  https://www.z1offroad.comAll Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck):  https://www.alldogsoffroad.comICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

What does it really take to be a good overlander? In this episode of the podcast, I break down the key personality traits, life experiences, and mindset that help make overlanding more enjoyable and sustainable—not just the gear checklist.I talk about the importance of patience, adaptability, curiosity, and problem-solving when you're out on the road or deep in the backcountry. I’ll also touch on how past experiences—from camping as a kid to wrenching on your first car—can shape how you approach vehicle-based travel.Yes, we’ll cover gear too. I’ll walk through the essential tools and setups I think every overlander should have, but also why gear shouldn’t be the starting point.Most importantly, I’ll challenge you to ask yourself why you want to overland in the first place. Whether it’s escape, exploration, community, or something else—knowing your “why” can guide everything from what you drive to how you travel.If you’re new to overlanding or just thinking about getting into it, this is a good place to start. If you’ve been doing it a while, I’d love to hear what you think makes someone a good overlander—drop your thoughts in the comments!A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos

In this episode, I break down the real-world pros and cons of stock vs. modified overland rigs based on my own experience building and traveling in both. Whether you’re just getting into overlanding or considering your next upgrade, this is a no-nonsense look at what actually matters when you're out on the trail.I’ll talk about reliability, cost, capability, comfort, and what mods are truly worth it versus what might just look cool on Instagram. If you’re torn between keeping your rig stock or going all-in on upgrades, this video will help you figure out what’s best for your adventures.Let me know in the comments what you’re running—stock, built, or somewhere in between!A huge thanks to my partners:Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices):  https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use):  https://bit.ly/41EJhbQICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order):  https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGMoon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier):  https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcherClick here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel:  https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlandingClick here to get a patches or stickers:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links:  https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8FFor more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!Facebook:  https://bit.ly/34pYsXvInstagram:  https://bit.ly/34pYS01TikTok:  https://bit.ly/3BWJbzJYouTube:  https://bit.ly/3cV5ZBbNewbie Overlander Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3b7RNos