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People love drama. Even when it’s not real. Owners of vehicles made by manufacturers that compete with Toyota especially love drama if it involves reliability issues with Toyotas. I remember when some first-generation Tacomas developed issues with leaking head gaskets. The howls among Ford, Chevy, and, especially, Land Rover owners reached shrill octaves: “SEE? SEE?” Ironically, the fact that Toyota’s reputation for building dependable vehicles is based on rock-solid real-world evidence is what

The tiny hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) is England’s only native dormouse. Just three inches long and under an ounce in weight, it used to be common, especially in southern England, in forests with a dense understory of hazel, ivy, and honeysuckle, which allows the mice to climb into the thickets to nest in safety. But the population of hazel dormice has plummeted in recent years, mainly through the loss and fragmentation of woodland and hedgerows. One possible habitat for them is th

While overlanding offers a unique blend of adventure and freedom, nothing can derail the thrill faster than digging through a disorganized mess. Assigning a designated place for each piece of kit leads to a quicker camp setup and teardown and more efficient meal preparation. This allows you to spend more time enjoying a laugh with friends, sitting around a crackling campfire, or choosing a lengthy off-road trail, all while conserving energy and focus for the journey ahead. You likely know by no

The rain hasn’t let up for days. It drums against the roof of our fire truck, a rhythmic reminder of the challenges we signed up for. Two...View the full article

Can a leaf-sprung vehicle be endowed with the ride and compliance of a coil-sprung vehicle? After installing a set of Terrain Tamer parabolic spring on our 1973 FJ40 Land Cruiser, I’d answer that question with: Close. Astonishingly close. Just one anecdote—when I first took Roseann for a ride after the installation, we’d not even got off our neighborhood byway onto a main street before she said, “Wow.” First, if you’re not familiar with the concept, please read this, then this. But, briefly, a p

Why would anyone mount mud-terrain tires on a vehicle that rarely leaves the Sonoran Desert? Several people asked me that question, after I switched from the all-terrain tires I’d run for a decade or more on my 1973 FJ40, to a set of Firestone Destination M/T2s (after also considering the company’s Destination X/T, which has an all-terrain-oriented tread pattern). My answer surprised some of them, who teasingly assumed I’d gone for the butch looks. And there’s no denying that the MTs look just r

Number 3 is at the printer and will be mailing out in mid- and late-January. And we are really pleased with the content. It’s packed full of adventure, equipment, history, field arts, and much more. And there is a slight nautical theme as well. Below is a sneak-preview of some of the content. A reminder of our publication schedule: July (print issue with digital version) October (all-online content) January (print issue with digital version) April (all-online content) If you subscribe now,

2024 in Review: A Year of Unforgettable Adventures As 2024 comes to a close, we can’t help but reflect on what has been an extraordinary year for Peak Overland. This year was filled with thrilling journeys, remarkable guests, and some moments of adventure that we’ll be talking about for years to come. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights that made 2024 so special: Love and Adventure: A Proposal on the Trail One of the most heartwarming moments this year was when a couple chose one of

Looking to grab some gear for your next adventure? Use code “XOVERLAND” for 20% off at checkout at vertx.com. Overlanding takes you off the beaten path into areas where the weather can shift without warning—from scorching heat to cold and everything in between. If you’re not properly equipped, a sudden storm, an unexpected drop in temperature, or a sweltering afternoon can throw a wrench in your plans. Whether trekking through the mountains, navigating deserts, or exploring forests, the right l

Installing the Naturnest 270 Awning: Overland Overhaul Episode 5 If you’re an off-road enthusiast or overlanding adventurer, you know the importance of comfort and versatility when setting up camp. One piece of gear that can elevate your setup is the Naturnest 270 Awning, offering 172 square feet of shade and protection. In Episode 5 of my Overland Overhaul series, I installed this impressive awning on my Jeep, and I’m here to break down the process for you in this blog. Why Choose the N

Embark on a wild journey with a family living full-time on the road in a retired firetruck. View the full article

From practical gear that makes trail life easier to tech and accessories that elevate every journey, this list is packed with options for any budget. Whether you’re shopping for a thoughtful gift under $100 or something more extravagant, there’s something for every overlander—beginners and seasoned explorers alike. Let’s dive into the best picks for those who live for adventure, exploration, and the open road! Under $100 XOVERLAND Legacy Bundle $59.00 Perfect for the holiday season! The Leg

Milestones were first used by the Roman Empire on their empire spanning network of roads. As the saying goes, “All roads in Europe lead to Rome.” That’s not rhetoric or hyperbole. The vast majority of modern highways and core roads in Europe were first laid out more than 2,000 years ago. In modern times milestones […]View the full article

Growing up in an Italian household, I grasped the importance of simplicity in cooking. The focus should be on the quality of the ingr...View the full article

Let me start off by saying I 100% unequivocally despise social media ads. I hate how social networks have devolved into captive marketing platforms. I hate it. I really do. So when I say I got suckered into a social media ad and that I actually like the product, ugh. It pains me to have […]View the full article

I’ve always been drawn to natural flora and fauna so it was an easy yes to admiring nature at Lankester Botanical Gardens on our Orosi Loop. The Jardin Botanico Lankester was founded in the 1940s when the British naturalist Charles Lankester expressed interest in the cultivation of epiphytic plants in Costa Rica. Although an amateur botanist, Charles dedicated his life to a private garden on his estate. The gardens flourished under his care and study and after his death,

For the second time in just as many years I did not teach a single class at Overland Expo East (go ahead and gasp). Last year didn’t leave me with much choice. For those that don’t know, on the first weekend of 2023 I was hit by a car leaving me on the sidelines for […]View the full article

The Best of Both Worlds: Anthem Liberty Wheels & 37” Kenda Klever Tires for My Jeep Wrangler When it comes to off-roading, the right wheel and tire package can make all the difference. Whether you’re cruising the streets or tackling extreme trails, having a setup that can handle the best of both worlds is key. That’s why I recently upgraded my Jeep Wrangler, swapping out the 17” stock wheels with 35” Kenda Klever tires for a brand-new set of 20” Anthem Liberty wheels wrapped in 37” K

When planning our trip to Costa Rica, I knew one highlight for me would be a couple of days touring the Orosi Valley. This lush valley set only two hours from the capital features a small town surrounded by adventure. As we crested the hills towards this tranquil town lovingly positioned in a scenic valley I knew I was in love. The lush hillsides were ablaze with the orange-red flowers of the Coral Trees that grow randomly where coffee is grown. The town of Orosi is easily walkable w

As summer fades and fall rolls in, the outdoor experience takes on a whole new vibe. The warm breezes are replaced by crisp air, the long...View the full article

284 volunteers doing 1,136 hours of work, collected a total of 19,820 pounds of trash during the the West Virginia Tread Lightly! Day for 2024. Needless to say this year surpassed all expectations. Absolutely blown away by the volume of trash and tires that was pulled out of the woods. The night before the cleanup […]View the full article

Are The Kenda Klever M/T The Best Off-Road Tires Made? Read Our Tire Review, 3 Years and Almost 70,000 Miles Of Testing When it comes to off-road adventures, one of the most important decisions you can make is choosing the right set of tires. Whether you’re conquering rugged trails, rock crawling, or plowing through mud and sand, your tires are what keep you going. Three years ago, I faced that very decision with my 2015 Jeep Wrangler JKU, and after a lot of research, I took a chance on

When the fall air rolls in and the leaves just start to fall it’s time for me to get excited. I get excited for a few reasons. First, let’s be honest, I am not built for summer. Second, fall is east coast event season. Adventure X Fest in West Virginia is the first event of […]View the full article

Exploring Colorado’s Breathtaking Fall: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Overlanding Adventure As the vibrant colors of summer fade and the kids settle back into their school routines, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next great adventure—an overlanding trip through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Colorado in the fall. With the summer vacation crowds retreating and the crisp, cool air settling in, overlanding in Colorado offers an unparalleled experience of solitude, beauty, and rugge

Two overlanders walk into a Jeep show. There’s no punchline because it’s not a joke. Feel free to laugh though. For the last few years I have been going to the Toledo Jeep Festival to celebrate the history and legacy of the Jeep brand. My first time to Toledo for their annual Jeep show was […]View the full article

Leaving camp the next morning, we made our way to El Paso, TX where we had our first ever glimpse of the southern border and Mexico. We have never been anywhere even close to either and found it quite intriguing. It was definitely not what we were expecting and the mountains off in the distance around Ciudad Juárez seemed to call out to us with their beauty. Stopping at a shopping center to resupply and fuel up, we were enthralled by the atmosphere and the culture.

Embrace the Last Days of Summer: Overlanding in Colorado Before Fall Arrives As the sun starts to set earlier and the days grow a bit cooler, it’s a reminder that the end of summer is just around the corner. But don’t pack away your adventure gear just yet! Colorado, with its stunning landscapes and diverse terrains, still offers plenty of opportunities for an unforgettable overland trip before the fall season arrives. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure traveler or a weekend warrior, now is th

About ten years ago I was in the market for a reliable, foolproof anti-theft system for the Porsche 911SC Roseann and I owned at the time. I didn’t want the usual complex electronic type, with the siren everyone ignores. After quite a lot of research I landed on a device called the Ravelco. The Ravelco, visually, comprises a plug installed in the dash or elsewhere, incorporating a cluster of 16 female pin receptacles. A male plug, which rides on one’s keychain, fits into it, completing a cryptic

After renewing our spirits and getting some much needed rest in San Antonio, we were ready to load up our vehicles and begin our journey west toward El Paso. Up to this point of our trip we really hadn't had to worry about anything other than fuel and a final destination for the day, since everyone had been sick. Each evening Jennifer and I would plan out a route that allowed for four to six hours of driving that would ultimately end at a hotel in which we would make reservations in advance for.

The Art of Airing Down: Unlocking the Benefits for Your Overland Adventure Embarking on an overlanding journey promises the thrill of exploration and the serenity of nature. However, navigating off-road terrain requires more than just a capable vehicle; it demands an understanding of how to optimize your ride for comfort, safety, and performance. One of the most effective techniques in the off-road arsenal is airing down your tires. In this blog, we’ll delve into the benefits of reducing tire p