Gear Showcase: Kitting Out Your Vehicle

CarToCamp — Sleeping Platform

The CarToCamp Sleeping Platform turns any car into a comfortable and organized camper. It is engineered to level out the uneven slant of the folded seats to create a flat space for two people to sleep inside the car. Underneath the Sleeping Platform is easy to access storage space for all your camping gear. At the rear of the vehicle are openings to slide storage bins, camp chairs, solar panels, and more. At the front of the Sleeping Platform there is a hinged wing at each side, making it easy to lift up and access even more storage compartments. Depending on the vehicle size, the Sleeping Platform can be extended up to 74” in length and matches the curvature of the inside of the vehicle to maximize sleeping space.

When the Sleeping Platform arrives at your door it can easily be assembled in under ten minutes without any tools required. Simply assemble the parts with notches and grooves – anyone can do it! Between camping trips the Sleeping Platform can be disassembled just as easily and stored flat in your apartment, garage, or even under your couch. Many customers choose to leave the back half installed in their vehicle year round to be used as a shelf storage system for everyday items like groceries.

Proudly manufactured in Reading, Pennsylvania, the Sleeping Platform is backed by the CarToCamp Guarantee and highly reviewed customer support. Use the vehicle compatibility checker on the website to find the right Sleeping Platform for your car. Shop confidently knowing that since 2020 CarToCamp Sleeping Platforms have been meticulously designed, tested, and refined for hundreds of different vehicle models.

MSRP: $695.00

Dreamhaven RV — Gladiator Force

Engineered for serious off-grid travel, the Gladiator Force is made for extended backcountry runs beyond maintained roads, where travellers stay self-sufficient, and on (or off) the road longer. From high-country tracks to desert crossings and riverside camps, it is built for those who keep going when the pavement ends.

Manufactured by Australia’s most awarded RV builder*, Dreamhaven RVs Gladiator Force is designed for real-world overlanding, not showroom conditions. Underneath is a six inch, dual stacked Australian chassis paired with off-road airbag suspension; delivering the strength, stability, and control needed to handle rough terrain with confidence.

Where it earns its reputation is off-grid independence. A 460Ah lithium battery, 3kW inverter, dual 230W solar panels, Anderson-style input for portable solar, and advanced DC/DC battery management system work together to provide reliable power in remote locations. Dual freshwater tanks and a dedicated grey water tank support extended stays away from facilities, while portable induction cooking provides a safe and efficient cooking setup that still performs at altitude and in remote conditions.

Inside, practicality meets comfort for extended travel. A private wet bath with cassette toilet, smart storage throughout, smart TV, and a twin-to-queen bed conversion create a functional living space, while external work lights simplify camp setup after dark. Every detail is designed to balance comfort with genuine self-sufficiency.

Backed by more than 20 years of Australian RV manufacturing experience, Dreamhaven RV has built an overland trailer for serious travel, not weekend imitation. The Gladiator Force delivers durability, independence, and the capability to keep travelling long after the road disappears.

Go further and stay longer in a Dreamhaven RV.

• Crusader Caravans is the most awarded caravan manufacturer in the history of the Caravan Industry Victoria, Australia (CIV) Hall of Fame and Industry Awards, having received the prestigious CIV Manufacturer of the Year award in 2019, 2021, 2024, and 2025. Crusader also holds the distinction of being the first and only Manufacturer of the Year to earn the esteemed Master Manufacturer title, awarded by CIV.

MSRP: $83,590

Midland Radio — GXT67 GMRS 5 Watt Walkie Talkie – GXT67PRO

When the next and greatest adventure takes overlanders further off grid and away from cell service, dependable communication becomes an essential part of the experience. The Midland® GXT67 GMRS 5-Watt Walkie Talkie – GXT67PRO is built to help overlanders stay connected, whether they’re navigating remote trails, coordinating with a convoy, or setting up camp after a long day off the beaten path.

Powered by 5 Watts and featuring GMRS repeater capability, the GXT67 PRO delivers maximum two-way radio range, helping overlanders communicate confidently across challenging terrain. This extensive range ensures team members can reach one another while traveling together or when splitting up for activities like hiking, paddleboarding, or fishing. Ultimately, this powerful walkie-talkie serves as the perfect companion to in-vehicle base stations for seamless connection anywhere.

Engineered with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof design, the radio is built to handle mud, rain, dust, river crossings, and unpredictable weather, making it a reliable tool wherever the trail leads.

Because long days on the trail require dependable battery performance, the GXT67 PRO provides up to 16 hours of active operation or up to 4 days of standby time. When it is time to power up, the included 4-hour rapid charger quickly gets adventurers back on the move.

The intuitive menu interface makes changing channels, adjusting settings, and accessing features simple, even during fast-paced expeditions.The system is straightforward enough that anyone on the journey can instantly use it for streamlined communication.

NOAA Weather Radio keeps travelers informed of shifting weather conditions, imperative as users spend long periods of time exploring the outdoors. It gives them the time needed to get to safety should severe weather pop up.

Designed for overlanders who venture beyond the pavement, the Midland GXT67 PRO provides the performance, durability, and communication needed to keep every adventure connected.

When the next great adventure takes overlanders further off-grid and away from cell service, dependable communication becomes an essential part of the experience. The Midland GXT67 GMRS 5-Watt Walkie Talkie – GXT67PRO is built to help adventurers stay connected, whether they are navigating remote trails, coordinating with a convoy, or setting up camp after a long day off the beaten path.

Powered by 5 Watts and featuring GMRS repeater capability, the GXT67 PRO delivers maximum two-way radio range, allowing overlanders to communicate confidently across challenging terrain. This extensive range ensures team members can reach one another while traveling together or when splitting up for activities like hiking, paddleboarding, or fishing. Ultimately, this powerful walkie-talkie serves as the perfect companion to in-vehicle base stations for seamless connection anywhere.

Engineered with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof design, the radio is built to handle mud, rain, dust, river crossings, and unpredictable weather, making it a reliable tool wherever the trail leads.

Because long days on the trail require dependable battery performance, the GXT67 PRO provides up to 16 hours of active operation or up to 4 days of standby time. When it is time to power up, the included 4-hour rapid charger quickly gets adventurers back on the move.

The intuitive menu interface makes changing channels, adjusting settings, and accessing features simple—even during fast-paced expeditions. The system is straightforward enough that anyone on the journey can instantly use it for streamlined communication.

Additionally, integrated NOAA Weather Radio keeps travelers informed of shifting conditions. This real-time tracking is imperative for anyone spending extended periods exploring the outdoors, giving users the vital time needed to seek safety should severe weather suddenly arise.

Designed specifically for overlanders who venture far beyond the pavement, the Midland GXT67 PRO provides the performance, durability, and communication capability needed to keep every adventure connected.

MSRP: $239.99

Baja Designs — S2 Sport Universal Light Kit

The Baja Designs S2 Sport is a bit of a do-it-all. It works as a chase light to increase safety and visibility on dusty trails. In camp, it’s a scene light to illuminate around your rig, and when you need to knock out some projects in the backcountry, it’s a great work light. It’s truly a universal kit that includes a single-light 2-pin harness with an on/off switch and a 10ft extension harness, making it compatible with nearly any off-road vehicle. The included extension harness makes installation easy and ensures reliable operation, allowing you to position your chase light at the rear of almost any vehicle. 

MSRP: $164.95

Front Runner — 4 Wolf Pack Pro Storage System Kit

Front Runner is no stranger to the overland storage game. Their boxes are ubiquitous. This system is a great option for many SUVs, and Front Runner offers similar kits in different sizes. Front Runner Wolf Pack Pros, the heart of this modular storage system, are perfectly sized for kitchen supplies, dried goods, tools, camera gear, toiletries, even clothes.  The cargo deck system is spring-loaded to secure your SBOX031 boxes in place, preventing vibration and excess movement. The top deck can also be used to mount Front Runner Cargo/Fridge Slides, and it’s finished with a clean bamboo surface. Plus, the whole thing can be installed in minutes, so you can upgrade your storage and hit the trail. 

MSRP: $1,062.00 Sale Price: $902.70

Kakadu — Outback Shower System

Photo: Rick Stowe

Photo: Rick Stowe

Keeping clean in the backcountry greatly improves livability, and the Kakadu Outback Shower System makes it easy to maintain hygiene and other camp chores in a compact, dependable package. We tested this shower system over several months, and it was a great option for personal showers, dishes, and more. Check out our full review HERE. With an onboard thermostat, easy setup, and even an onboard battery, all you need is your own water source, and you’re good to go. The whole kit packs into its own bag for easy transport.  

MSRP: $499.00 Sale Price: $399.20