What Almost Killed My Overlanding Adventures (And Nearly Me)

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

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