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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 Naturnest 270 Awning? For those new to overlanding, or even seasoned adventurers, adding an awning to your rig provides essential protection from the elements. The Naturnest 270 Awning is a great option because it’s: • Spacious: Covers up to 172 square feet, enough to provide shade from the front to the rear of your vehicle. • Durable: Made from high-quality, waterproof fabric that blocks 99% of UV rays, ensuring sun protection and keeping you dry in rainy conditions. • Quick Setup: The six retractable aluminum alloy support poles are lightweight yet sturdy, and the entire setup takes just five minutes. • Built for Adventure: LED lights make it perfect for night use, while the ability to stand freely without poles makes it versatile for any camping situation. Now, let’s get into how I installed this awning on my Jeep. Unboxing the Naturnest 270 Awning The Naturnest 270 Awning arrives with everything you need for a smooth installation: • The main awning unit. • Six adjustable aluminum support poles. • Fixed ropes and hooks for securing the awning. • Built-in LED light kit. • All necessary hardware. Before starting the install, I made sure I had my tools ready—socket wrenches, a ratchet, and a drill for securing the hardware to my roof rack. Step-by-Step Installing the 270 Awning 1. Mounting Brackets First, I installed the mounting brackets on my Jeep’s roof rack. The Naturnest 270 Awning comes with universal brackets that fit most roof racks, making the install process hassle-free. I ensured the brackets were securely attached, since they’ll bear the weight of the awning while off-roading. This took about 10 minutes, and the brackets locked into place firmly. 2. Securing the Awning Once the brackets were ready, it was time to attach the awning itself. With the help of a friend (this part is definitely easier with two people), we lifted the awning and aligned it with the mounting brackets. Using the provided bolts, we securely fastened the awning to the brackets. This part of the install was surprisingly simple and only took around 15 minutes. 3. Deploying the Awning With the awning in place, I deployed it to see just how well it extended from the side of my Jeep. The 270-degree coverage is impressive, extending from the front to the back of the vehicle. This provides a massive shaded area for camping, cooking, or just relaxing. The six aluminum poles are retractable, making it easy to adjust the height based on the terrain. 4. Setting Up LED Lights The Naturnest 270 Awning also includes a built-in LED light kit that I wired into my Jeep’s auxiliary power system. The LED lights are perfect for providing illumination after dark, making this awning not just functional for daytime use but also ideal for late-night campfires or evening cooking sessions. The LED kit installation was a breeze, and it blends seamlessly with the awning’s design. Testing the Awning in Real-World Conditions Once installed, I took the awning out for a test run. We faced some strong winds and a bit of rain, and I’m happy to report that the Naturnest 270 Awning held up beautifully. The adjustable aluminum poles stayed strong in the wind, and the fabric kept us dry throughout the rainstorm. I especially appreciated the ease with which the poles fold away when not in use—simple, effective, and sturdy. Why You Need the Naturnest 270 Awning for Overlanding Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or just enjoying a day at the beach, the Naturnest 270 Awning is an essential piece of equipment for any outdoor enthusiast. Here’s why: • Quick Setup: The entire install took less than an hour. Future deployments will be even faster—just pull it out, adjust the poles, and you’re good to go. • Spacious Coverage: With over 170 square feet of coverage, it provides more than enough room to keep your gear, kitchen, or family shaded. • Durability: The high-quality materials and construction can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it a reliable part of your overlanding kit. • Lighting for Night Use: The built-in LED lights make it functional after the sun goes down, perfect for extending your camp experience into the evening. Final Thoughts The Naturnest 270 Awning was an easy, effective upgrade for my Jeep. With its fast installation, superior coverage, and durable construction, it’s the perfect addition for anyone looking to enhance their overland adventures. If you’re interested in seeing the full process, check out Episode 5 of the Overland Overhaul series on my Road Rash Off-Road YouTube channel for all the details. Stay adventurous, and I’ll see you on the next trail! The post 270 Awning for Jeep Overlanders appeared first on Road Rash Off Road. View the full article

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 Naturnest 270 Awning? For those new to overlanding, or even seasoned adventurers, adding an awning to your rig provides essential protection from the elements. The Naturnest 270 Awning is a great option because it’s: • Spacious: Covers up to 172 square feet, enough to provide shade from the front to the rear of your vehicle. • Durable: Made from high-quality, waterproof fabric that blocks 99% of UV rays, ensuring sun protection and keeping you dry in rainy conditions. • Quick Setup: The six retractable aluminum alloy support poles are lightweight yet sturdy, and the entire setup takes just five minutes. • Built for Adventure: LED lights make it perfect for night use, while the ability to stand freely without poles makes it versatile for any camping situation. Now, let’s get into how I installed this awning on my Jeep. Unboxing the Naturnest 270 Awning The Naturnest 270 Awning arrives with everything you need for a smooth installation: • The main awning unit. • Six adjustable aluminum support poles. • Fixed ropes and hooks for securing the awning. • Built-in LED light kit. • All necessary hardware. Before starting the install, I made sure I had my tools ready—socket wrenches, a ratchet, and a drill for securing the hardware to my roof rack. Step-by-Step Installing the 270 Awning 1. Mounting Brackets First, I installed the mounting brackets on my Jeep’s roof rack. The Naturnest 270 Awning comes with universal brackets that fit most roof racks, making the install process hassle-free. I ensured the brackets were securely attached, since they’ll bear the weight of the awning while off-roading. This took about 10 minutes, and the brackets locked into place firmly. 2. Securing the Awning Once the brackets were ready, it was time to attach the awning itself. With the help of a friend (this part is definitely easier with two people), we lifted the awning and aligned it with the mounting brackets. Using the provided bolts, we securely fastened the awning to the brackets. This part of the install was surprisingly simple and only took around 15 minutes. 3. Deploying the Awning With the awning in place, I deployed it to see just how well it extended from the side of my Jeep. The 270-degree coverage is impressive, extending from the front to the back of the vehicle. This provides a massive shaded area for camping, cooking, or just relaxing. The six aluminum poles are retractable, making it easy to adjust the height based on the terrain. 4. Setting Up LED Lights The Naturnest 270 Awning also includes a built-in LED light kit that I wired into my Jeep’s auxiliary power system. The LED lights are perfect for providing illumination after dark, making this awning not just functional for daytime use but also ideal for late-night campfires or evening cooking sessions. The LED kit installation was a breeze, and it blends seamlessly with the awning’s design. Testing the Awning in Real-World Conditions Once installed, I took the awning out for a test run. We faced some strong winds and a bit of rain, and I’m happy to report that the Naturnest 270 Awning held up beautifully. The adjustable aluminum poles stayed strong in the wind, and the fabric kept us dry throughout the rainstorm. I especially appreciated the ease with which the poles fold away when not in use—simple, effective, and sturdy. Why You Need the Naturnest 270 Awning for Overlanding Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or just enjoying a day at the beach, the Naturnest 270 Awning is an essential piece of equipment for any outdoor enthusiast. Here’s why: • Quick Setup: The entire install took less than an hour. Future deployments will be even faster—just pull it out, adjust the poles, and you’re good to go. • Spacious Coverage: With over 170 square feet of coverage, it provides more than enough room to keep your gear, kitchen, or family shaded. • Durability: The high-quality materials and construction can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it a reliable part of your overlanding kit. • Lighting for Night Use: The built-in LED lights make it functional after the sun goes down, perfect for extending your camp experience into the evening. Final Thoughts The Naturnest 270 Awning was an easy, effective upgrade for my Jeep. With its fast installation, superior coverage, and durable construction, it’s the perfect addition for anyone looking to enhance their overland adventures. If you’re interested in seeing the full process, check out Episode 5 of the Overland Overhaul series on my Road Rash Off-Road YouTube channel for all the details. Stay adventurous, and I’ll see you on the next trail! The post 270 Awning for Jeep Overlanders appeared first on Road Rash Off Road. View the full article

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 Legacy Bundle is a collection of our fan favorites over the years. This holiday bundle includes a hat, mug, and sticker and is a perfect stocking stuffer for the overlanders in your life. Save 15% by buying them all together! Shop NowVertx Mens Pants – Delta Stretch 2.1 $98.99 Having used Vertx Delta Stretch pants on three continents, Clay recommends these pants to anyone looking for a pant that is durable, yet comfortable for days at camp. Use code “xoverland” for 20% off! 9.2-ounce 98% Cotton/ 2% Spandex Four-way stretch fabric is soft and flexible for optimal movability Shop NowOverland Journal Subscription $65.00 The ultimate printed source of overland inspiration, Overland Journal has been telling amazing stories for nearly 20 years. Overland Journal is produced five times annually and includes a Gear Guide, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter issue. Shop NowOffroam XOVERLAND Phone Mount $79.00 After numerous miles in Africa, Europe, and North America, we can’t imagine a better phone mount for overland travel. Enjoy easy, no-drill installation to preserve the interior of your vehicle for years to come. Shop NowMagpul Sunglasses $69.00 The Magpul Explorer is a casual design that incorporates high performance features for those times when you want both protection and classic style out of your eyewear. With the same lens and frame construction and materials as our ballistic-rated models, the Explorer provides extreme impact resistance, durability, and flexibility in a more lightweight package you can wear everywhere. Shop NowHEST Travel Pillow $89.00 A new staple of all of our expeditions, the HEST Travel Pillow is a non-negotiable for traveling. Perfect for sleeping on airplanes, road trips, AirBnB’s, motels, tent camping, van life, or for nightly use Shop NowAPEX Valve Stem $35.00 Airing down in seconds is incredibly helpful when traveling for months at a time over rough terrain. For people airing up and down often, you can’t go wrong with these valve stems. Shop NowMobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20, 5 Quart $27.97 The Mobil 1 120758 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20 is engineered to provide exceptional protection and performance in a wide range of temperatures. This high-quality motor oil helps reduce engine wear, improve fuel efficiency, and extend engine life, making it an ideal choice for modern vehicles requiring advanced synthetic oil. With its advanced formulation, it ensures reliable performance, even under the most demanding driving conditions. Shop NowARB 10000011 Speedy Seal $48.00 Be prepared for the unexpected with this all-in-one tire repair kit, designed to get you back on the road quickly and safely. Whether you’re dealing with a puncture or a slow leak, this compact, easy-to-use kit includes everything you need for a reliable fix anytime, anywhere. Don’t let a flat stop you—ensure peace of mind on every drive! Shop NowGoose Gear Cutting Board $44.95 Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with the Goose Gear cutting board, crafted from durable, food-safe materials for precision and convenience. Its sleek design and sturdy construction make it perfect for prepping meals on your next adventure, while the non-slip surface ensures stability even in rugged conditions. Compact, lightweight, and easy to clean, it’s the ideal addition to any outdoor kitchen or camper setup. Shop NowGO Anywhere Portable Camping Toilet $89.99 The Anywhere Complete Portable Camping Toilet is a compact and practical solution for outdoor trips, offering comfort and convenience for camping, hiking, and RV use. This portable toilet includes a leak-proof waste bag system, making it easy to dispose of waste without any mess or odor. Ideal for remote locations, it provides a hygienic and reliable bathroom option when traditional facilities aren’t available. Shop NowShowerPouch 10 Pack $89.99 Stay fresh and clean on the go with Shower Pouch body wipes, the ultimate solution for a quick, refreshing cleanse anytime, anywhere. Each wipe is infused with soothing, skin-friendly ingredients, leaving you feeling revitalized without the need for water. Perfect for travel, outdoor adventures, or post-workout, these convenient wipes provide a full-body refresh in just minutes. Use code “XOVERLAND” for 10% off! Shop NowBarebones Railroad Lantern $99.99 Light up your outdoor adventures with the Barebones Railroad Lantern, a beautifully crafted, vintage-inspired piece that combines classic style with modern functionality. Designed for durability and performance, it provides warm, ambient light whether you’re camping, hiking, or adding a touch of charm to your home. With its adjustable dimmer and long-lasting battery, this lantern offers both practicality and timeless appeal for any setting. Shop NowEndurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage $9.06 Endurance by Ernest Shackleton is the gripping, true story of one of history’s most extraordinary survival journeys, as Shackleton and his crew battle freezing temperatures, treacherous seas, and seemingly insurmountable odds after their ship is trapped in Antarctic ice. This tale of courage, leadership, and unbreakable resolve will inspire anyone who loves adventure, history, or stories of the human spirit triumphing over adversity. A must-read for anyone fascinated by exploration and the limits of endurance. Shop NowOver $100 Guzzle H2O $988.80 Stay hydrated with Guzzle H2O, the ultimate water bottle designed for durability, convenience, and performance. Whether you’re hitting the trail, the gym, or simply tackling your day, Guzzle H2O’s leak-proof design, ergonomic grip, and easy-to-clean features make it the perfect companion for any adventure. Keep your water cold, your thirst quenched, and your day on track with Guzzle H2O. Shop NowRigid Industries Scene Lights $124.99 Illuminate your worksite or outdoor adventure with Rigid’s Scene Lights, delivering powerful, wide-angle lighting for maximum visibility in even the toughest conditions. Built with rugged durability and cutting-edge LED technology, these lights provide bright, clear illumination that enhances safety and productivity. Whether you’re working late into the night or exploring in the dark, Rigid’s Scene Lights ensure you never miss a detail. Shop NowGarmin inReach Mini 2 $299.00 Stay connected no matter where you roam with Garmin’s inReach Mini, the compact satellite communicator that ensures you’re never out of touch, even in remote locations. With two-way messaging, location sharing, and emergency SOS features, it’s your lifeline for safety and peace of mind during outdoor adventures. Lightweight, durable, and easy to use, the inReach Mini is the perfect companion for explorers who value reliability and security on the go. Shop NowIndeflate $169.00 Make tire inflation faster and easier with the Indeflate, a game-changing tool that lets you inflate and deflate tires simultaneously with just one simple connection. Designed for efficiency and precision, it reduces the time and effort of tire management, whether you’re off-roading, camping, or just keeping your vehicle in top condition. Durable, portable, and incredibly easy to use, the Indeflate is a must-have for anyone who values convenience and reliability on the go. Shop NowMaxtrax $233.99 MaxTrax are the ultimate traction mats designed to get you unstuck in the toughest off-road conditions, from mud and snow to sand and gravel. Built with heavy-duty materials and an innovative design, these mats provide the grip and stability you need to power through obstacles with ease. Compact, lightweight, and easy to store, MaxTrax are a must-have for any adventure, ensuring you stay mobile no matter what the terrain throws your way. Shop Now42L Alubox $346.50 Alubox storage boxes (sold by Equipt Expedition Outfitters) are the ultimate solution for keeping your gear safe, organized, and protected, whether you’re on the road, at camp, or in the workshop. Made from rugged, lightweight aluminum, these boxes are built to withstand the harshest conditions while offering a sleek, professional look. With secure locking systems and versatile sizes, Aluboxes make it easy to store and transport everything from tools to camping equipment with confidence and style. Shop NowPrinsu Pro Roof Rack $845.00+ CBI’s Prinsu Roof Rack is the ultimate upgrade for your vehicle, offering rugged, versatile storage solutions for all your outdoor adventures. Designed for durability and easy customization, this sleek, low-profile rack provides a solid foundation for carrying gear, from camping equipment to kayaks, without compromising your vehicle’s performance. Built to handle the toughest conditions, the Prinsu Roof Rack ensures your gear stays secure, giving you more freedom to explore. Shop NowGeneral Tire A/TX Tires $296.00+ The General Grabber ATX tires are built to conquer any terrain, offering exceptional traction and durability for both on- and off-road adventures. Engineered with an advanced tread pattern and reinforced sidewalls, these tires provide superior handling, stability, and a smooth ride, whether you’re tackling muddy trails, rocky roads, or highway miles. With the General Grabber ATX, you’ll have the confidence to take your vehicle wherever the road—or no road—takes you. Shop NowHEST Dually Mattress $439.20 Sleep like you’re at home, no matter where you are, with the Hest Mattress—designed for ultimate comfort and durability in the great outdoors. Built with a premium foam construction and an innovative self-inflating design, it offers superior support and warmth, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after any adventure. Lightweight, compact, and rugged, the Hest Mattress is perfect for camping, overlanding, or anyone who values comfort on the go. Shop NowAeronaut Hoverquilt $499.00 The HoverQuilt Duo/Solo from Aeronaut Outdoor is a versatile, ultralight, and compact sleeping quilt designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Ideal for both solo adventurers and duo camping, it offers exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and a customizable fit, ensuring comfort in a range of temperatures. With premium insulation and a sleek design, it’s built to perform in a variety of conditions while keeping pack weight minimal. Shop NowREDARC GoBlock $2,299.99 The REDARC GoBlock is the ultimate portable power solution for your off-grid adventures, providing reliable, on-the-go energy to keep your devices charged and your gear running. With its compact, rugged design and advanced lithium battery technology, the GoBlock offers long-lasting power, multiple output options, and fast recharging to meet all your energy needs. Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or working remotely, the GoBlock ensures you’re never without the power you need. Shop NowAlu-Cab LT50 $2,699.00 The AluCab LT50 is the perfect solution for overlanders and adventurers seeking a durable, high-quality rooftop tent with maximum comfort and convenience. Its lightweight, yet rugged aluminum frame ensures easy setup and superior protection against the elements, while the spacious interior offers ample room for restful sleep after a long day on the trail. Built to withstand tough conditions, the LT50 combines ease of use with premium features, making it the ideal choice for those who want to take their outdoor experiences to the next level. Shop NowGoose Gear Park Series $2,190.00 The Goose Gear Park Series is the ultimate gear storage and organization solution for outdoor enthusiasts, designed to maximize space and efficiency in your vehicle. With its rugged, customizable components, the Park Series offers everything from secure drawers to versatile shelving, ensuring your gear stays organized and accessible on every adventure. Built with durability in mind, this system is perfect for anyone looking to keep their equipment neatly stored, easily accessible, and ready for the next journey. Shop NowICON Alloy Wheels $218.00 Upgrade your vehicle’s style and performance with a set of ICON wheels, engineered for both rugged durability and sleek aesthetics. Designed to handle the toughest terrains, these wheels offer superior strength, enhanced off-road capability, and a bold, aggressive look that will turn heads wherever you go. Whether you’re hitting the trails or cruising the streets, ICON wheels provide the perfect balance of toughness and style for any adventure. Shop NowBenchmade Cooking Knives $340.00 Elevate your culinary game with Benchmade’s Cooking Knife Set, precision-crafted for exceptional performance and sharpness in the kitchen. Designed with high-quality, durable materials, these knives offer unmatched control, balance, and ease of use, whether you’re chopping, slicing, or dicing. With Benchmade’s reputation for excellence, this knife set will help you create meals with the precision and confidence of a professional chef. Shop NowMountain Hatch Tailgate $199.00 Transform your vehicle’s tailgate into the ultimate outdoor kitchen with the Mountain Hatch tailgate, designed for rugged durability and versatility. Made from heavy-duty, food-safe materials, it provides a durable, flat surface perfect for prepping meals, serving food, or even as a work surface in the great outdoors. Easy to install and clean, the Mountain Hatch tailgate is the must-have upgrade for anyone who enjoys cooking, camping, or adventuring with convenience and style. Shop NowFor Women Vertx Everyday Sling $64.99 The Vertx Women’s Sling is the perfect blend of style, functionality, and convenience for the modern woman on the go. Designed with a sleek, ergonomic shape, this versatile sling bag offers quick access to your essentials while keeping everything secure and organized. Whether you’re navigating the city or heading out on an adventure, the Women’s Sling ensures you stay prepared without compromising on comfort or style. Use code “xoverland” for 20% off! Shop NowTinklebell $16.99 The Tinklebelle is the innovative, must-have accessory designed to keep you comfortable and confident on the go. This discreet, portable device offers a simple solution for women, providing a hygienic and convenient way to handle personal needs while traveling or during outdoor activities. Lightweight, easy to use, and designed for active lifestyles, the Tinklebelle gives you the freedom to enjoy life without worry. Shop NowBlack Diamond Gloves $16.99 Stay warm, dry, and protected with Black Diamond’s Women’s Gloves, expertly designed for superior performance in cold, challenging conditions. Made with high-quality materials and a precise fit, these gloves offer exceptional dexterity, grip, and insulation, keeping your hands comfortable and functional during everything from mountain climbing to winter hikes. With their sleek design and durable construction, Black Diamond’s Women’s Gloves are the perfect combination of style and reliability for any outdoor adventure. Shop NowBenchmade Mini Griptilian $160.00 The Benchmade Mini Griptilian is a sleek, lightweight knife designed for precision and everyday carry, offering a perfect blend of style and performance. With its easy-to-handle, ergonomic design and high-quality blade, this compact knife provides reliable strength and versatility for everything from opening packages to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re an experienced enthusiast or just looking for a durable, stylish tool, the Mini Griptillian is the ideal choice for women who value both function and elegance in their everyday gear. Shop NowVertx Women’s Flannels $49.99 The Vertx Women’s Flannel Shirt combines rugged durability with effortless style, perfect for outdoor adventures or everyday wear. Crafted from soft, high-performance fabric, it offers warmth, comfort, and a flattering fit while allowing for full range of motion. With its versatile design and practical features, this flannel shirt is an essential addition to any woman’s wardrobe, whether you’re hitting the trails or enjoying a casual day out. Use code “xoverland” for 20% off! Shop NowGoodr Sunglasses $25.00 Goodr sunglasses are the perfect combination of style, comfort, and performance, designed for active women who want to look great while staying active. With lightweight, non-slip frames and polarized lenses, these sunglasses provide a secure fit and crystal-clear vision, whether you’re running, cycling, or just enjoying a day in the sun. Available in a variety of fun colors and styles, Goodr sunglasses offer both function and flair at an affordable price, making them a must-have accessory for every adventure. Shop NowUrsa Major Face Wipes $52.00 Ursa Major’s Face Wipes are the perfect refresh for adventurous women on the go, offering a quick, effective cleanse after a long hike, workout, or outdoor excursion. Infused with natural ingredients like aloe and witch hazel, these wipes gently remove dirt, sweat, and sunscreen, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Compact, biodegradable, and perfect for any adventure, they’re the essential skincare companion for women who want to look and feel their best, no matter where the journey takes them. Shop Now The post The Only Adventure Travel Gift Guide That You Will Ever Need appeared first on Expedition Overland. View the full article