Stock vs. Modded Rigs: Which Is Better for Overlanding?

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

I’ve made a lot of modifications to my overlanding rigs over the years—but not all of them were good ideas. In this episode, I’m taking a hard look at how certain upgrades can actually hurt your setup instead of helping it. From suspension changes that wreck ride quality to accessories that add unnecessary weight or complexity, I break down the mods that seemed smart at the time but turned out to be more trouble than they’re worth.If you’re building your rig or thinking about your next upgrade, watch this first. Let’s talk about what to avoid, what to rethink, and how to make sure your build actually improves your adventures instead of holding you back.Drop your biggest mod regret or lesson learned 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

I’ve tested a lot of gear over the years—some great, some not so great—but there are a few budget-friendly Amazon finds that I always bring on every trip. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the affordable gear that’s earned a permanent spot in my overlanding setup. From practical tools to surprisingly durable comforts, these are the items that punch way above their price tag.If you're looking to build out your kit without breaking the bank, or you’re just curious what budget gear actually lasts out in the wild, this one's for you.Here are links to everything I mentioned in the episode:CoLight Ditch Lights (Auxbeam equivalent): https://amzn.to/4khBiYIMidland MXT 275 GMRS Radio (what I have): https://amzn.to/4k7eXwYMidland MXT575 (more powerful than what I have): https://amzn.to/4jfGCuyMagnetic Microphone Mount: https://amzn.to/3Zp80yXOffroam Phone Mount: https://amzn.to/43wa2yMGarmin Overlander Offgrid GPS Unit: https://amzn.to/45p5BrZGarmin Tread Upgraded GPS Unit that I would buy if I had to do it again: https://amzn.to/4mGRLYmTLAPS Cab Rack for D41 Frontier (can rattle, but it's cheap): https://amzn.to/4mtltzUTop Oak 270 Awning (love this thing): https://shrsl.com/4whyhICECO JP50 Fridge: https://amzn.to/43GA57ACamco Leveling Blocks: https://amzn.to/3H51es9Bouge RV Telescoping Camp Lantern: https://amzn.to/4jiY9SLUrinal: https://amzn.to/43rJgHwCamp Kitchen Duffle Bag: https://amzn.to/4dsA4HHJetboil Genesis Basecamp (stove, pot, pan-my portable stove): https://amzn.to/3FqC0nlTMAT bed organizer: https://www.tmat.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGQuick Fists: https://amzn.to/4kwUIsCAll Top Privacy Tent: https://amzn.to/3FlqrhmPortable Bug Zapper: https://amzn.to/3YVeANJHelinox High Back Chair: https://amzn.to/4kAifceSmall Bluetti Power Bank: https://amzn.to/4khAu68A huge thanks to my featured 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

Overlanding has never been cheap, but in 2025, it feels like everything—from rooftop tents to fuel—costs more than ever. In this video, I’m breaking down how inflation, new tariffs, and rising gear prices are impacting the overlanding community. I’ll share what I’ve seen firsthand, how it’s changed my approach to gear and travel, and some practical ways you can still enjoy this lifestyle without breaking the bank.Whether you're just getting into overlanding or you’ve been building your rig for years, this is a conversation that is definitely interesting. Let’s talk about what’s driving up costs—and how to keep exploring without going broke.Has overlanding become too expensive?A huge thanks to my featured partners: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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGTop Oak (my favorite roof top tents, awning, and more. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://amzn.to/3GKmoLOMoon 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'm diving into one of the most common debates in overlanding: Should you build out an older vehicle or invest in a newer rig? Having experienced both ends of the spectrum myself, I'll break down the real-world pros and cons of choosing an older, proven vehicle versus a newer, tech-packed option. We'll cover everything from reliability, cost, and maintenance, to comfort, safety, and capability. By the end of this video, you'll have a clearer picture of which choice might suit your adventure style best.Have you owned both older and newer rigs? I'd love to hear your experiences in the comments below!A huge thanks to my featured partners: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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGOpenroad 4x4 (my favorite roof top tent and winches. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://openroad4wd.com?aff=47Moon 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

Overlanding has exploded in popularity over the past few years, but lately I've been hearing a lot of debate—has it finally peaked? In this video, I'm diving deep into the data, trends, and my personal experiences to uncover whether overlanding is truly past its prime or if it's simply evolving into something new.I'll share my honest thoughts on the current state of overlanding, what I've seen change in the community, and what the future might hold. Whether you're an experienced overlander, just starting out, or somewhere in between, join me for some real talk about what's next for this hobby and why I think it's not really dying. Let me know your thoughts in the comments—do you think overlanding has peaked, or is the best yet to come?A huge thanks to my featured partners: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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGOpenroad 4x4 (my favorite roof top tent and winches. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://openroad4wd.com?aff=47Moon 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

"Overlanding Tax." You've probably heard the term thrown around in forums, videos, and around campfires. But is it a legitimate gripe or just another overused buzzword in the overlanding community? In this video, I dive into what the "overlanding tax" really means, explore if we're genuinely paying extra for gear labeled for overlanders, or if we're simply misunderstanding how pricing works.I'll share my perspective, examine some specific examples, and explain why this phrase might be doing more harm than good. Whether you're new to overlanding or a seasoned adventurer, this video will help you navigate the noise and understand if you're truly paying more—or just joining in on unnecessary complaining.Let me know your thoughts in the comments: Do you believe the "overlanding tax" is real, or is it time we retire this term?Don't forget to add the ATO podcast to your favorites and leave a 5 star review if you enjoyed it!And as mentioned in the episode, here are links to the products I talked about. RUMPL Overlanding Mat: https://rumpl.sjv.io/Dy3oabAlltop Shower Tent: https://amzn.to/3RfurCBA huge thanks to my featured partners:LIVSN (amazingly comfortable, extremely well built clothing for adventurers):  https://bit.ly/404qk17Nitto (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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGOpenroad 4x4 (my favorite roof top tent and winches. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://openroad4wd.com?aff=47Moon 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

Hey everyone! In this video, I wanted to take a step back from my usual overlanding and adventure content to share a bit more about myself. I'm going to dive into my personal background, including how I got started with creating overlanding content, what inspired me, and what keeps me motivated.I'll also talk openly about my full-time job, how I balance my professional life with my passion for exploring the outdoors, and how my career influences my approach to creating content. Plus, I'll share some of my favorite hobbies and interests outside of overlanding that you might find surprising. Whether you're new here or have been following my adventures for a while, I hope this video helps you get to know me better and understand why I'm so passionate about sharing my journeys with you. Thanks for checking out the episode, and as always, feel free to share your own experiences in the comments—I’d love to get to know you all better, too!A huge thanks to my featured partners:LIVSN (amazingly comfortable, extremely well built clothing for adventurers):  https://bit.ly/404qk17Nitto (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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGOpenroad 4x4 (my favorite roof top tent and winches. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://openroad4wd.com?aff=47Moon 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 hear it all the time—"Overlanding is just an expensive hobby for people who like buying gear." And if you go on YouTube and search for overlanding, most of what you see are videos talking about how it's a scam. But is that really the truth? In this episode, I break down what I think overlanding actually is and why it’s about way more than just fancy equipment and high-priced rigs.Sure, the industry loves to push new products, but at its core, overlanding is about adventure, self-reliance, and the freedom to explore. Whether you're traveling in a decked-out rig or a stock vehicle with just the basics, overlanding is accessible to anyone who wants to get out there and experience the world.What do you think? Do you agree that overlanding is about more than just gear, or do you think the industry has made it too expensive? Let me know in the comments!A huge thanks to my featured partners:LIVSN (amazingly comfortable, extremely well built clothing for adventurers):  https://bit.ly/404qk17Nitto (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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGOpenroad 4x4 (my favorite roof top tent and winches. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://openroad4wd.com?aff=47Moon 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

Let’s be honest—there’s a ton of overlanding gear out there, but do you really need all of it? In this video, I break down the must-have essentials for overlanding and call out the gear that’s just hype (or a total waste of money). Whether you’re new to overlanding or looking to refine your setup, I’ll help you figure out what’s worth packing and what’s better left behind.I’ve tested a lot of gear over the years, and I’ve learned what actually makes a difference when you're off the grid. From camping essentials to vehicle mods, I’ll share the best gear to invest in and the overrated stuff that’s not worth the weight or the cost.Based on this article from the Matador Network, check out the full episode for all the info and recommendations: https://matadornetwork.com/read/overlanding-gear/👇 Let me know in the comments – what’s the best or worst piece of overlanding gear you’ve ever bought?And here are links to all the gear I mentioned in the episode:Wildfinder RTT ($999):  https://amzn.to/4i1ZeOxNaturnest RTT ($1250):  https://amzn.to/42W07DKOpenroad RTT (about $2000):  https://bit.ly/3Sx9ELRBunker Industries Serviceable Traction Boards:  https://amzn.to/4hCFmlfUni-Jack (locking bottle jack):  https://amzn.to/4aZYqasAnker Solix C1000 (solid portable power bank-usually on sale):  https://amzn.to/4b22V4oBudget Kinetic Rope ($100):  https://amzn.to/4i1QHexSoft Shackles ($60):  https://amzn.to/3CPcnLUSnatch Block ($50ish):  https://amzn.to/41hwJqoHard Shackles ($45):  https://amzn.to/41eCJAhWarn Recovery Bag ($440ish with lots of stuff):  https://amzn.to/4k2yRcTARB Essentials Recovery Bag( $330ish):  https://amzn.to/4aY6WqDOpenroad Winch:  https://amzn.to/41ibLriHest Foamy Wide Mattress ($350):  https://amzn.to/41gpa3nHest Pillow ($74):  https://amzn.to/3X2cwlPBougeRV Shower ($300ish):  https://amzn.to/4hZdYgVA huge thanks to my featured partners:LIVSN (amazingly comfortable, extremely well built clothing for adventurers):  https://bit.ly/404qk17Nitto (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/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDINGOpenroad 4x4 (my favorite roof top tent and winches. Great quality for a budget price!):  https://openroad4wd.com?aff=47Moon 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