Ever since YETI first dropped their rotomolded cooler in 2006, cooler manufacturers have been looking for ways to regain market share. Unfortunately, many of these companies are producing inferior look-a-likes that are only marginally better than the old ABS plastic coolers of yesteryear. That's not the case with Gnarwhal.

Old worn out sleeping bags are some of the most uncomfortable things on the planet. I know this because I’ve used the same sleeping bag for over ten years. That’s why I was extremely excited when SJK sent me their new Wheeler Lake sleeping bag to test out. It’s not a radical new product, but it does come with some great perks, especially if you are on the tall side.

Basecamp F550 I wanted something to take my family camping and carry all my toys. I wanted to be sufficient for off the grid camping and not stress about my bikes disappearing or being damaged in transit.

Westfalia. You immediately pictured some sort of Volkswagen bus with tie dye colors and a dude resembling John Lennon, didn’t you. It’s ok, we all do. That stereotype has long been attached to the VW bus and the Westfalia campers. Heck, some people still consider them to be the quintessential mode of transport for the free spirited van lifer.

If you follow our Instagram page, then you know how much we love gigantic expedition vehicles. These giant lumbering trucks allow travelers to carry many of the luxuries of home deep into the backcountry, or often times, to foreign countries. 

Unlike the Ursa Minor J30 which only replaces the factory Jeep top, the GaZell is a different animal altogether. GaZell has designed a complete camper around the JK platform. Much of this is achieved by adding 38 cm to the rear of the Jeep. This creates the space necessary for two bench seats, a table, and a number of high quality cabinets. The kit is completely a bolt on affair with no cutting or drilling required. 

From the start of this build, I knew I would need a dual battery system. For this, I selected a Genesis Dual Battery kit with Dual Odyssey Group 34 PC1500's. This would provide more than enough power to handle the auxiliary lights, inverter and a fridge. Thanks to Genesis' YouTube video, installation went smoothly.

[Edit: This list is updated often. Last update September 20, 2020] Heavy duty camper trailers and off-road vehicles are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, they often require a substantial financial investment. Luckily, you can experience the joys of backcountry camping at a fraction of the cost, and without mortgaging your house. Renting is also a great way to see if a particular platform is a good fit before shelling out fistfuls of cash. We have compiled a list of companies that rent off-road vehicles and campers -with a few light-duty honorable mentions. Not sure where to take your rental? Most of the companies in this list will provide you with a directory of adventure routes to ensure that you have the best experience possible.  

Many of us dream of overlanding in far off places. Unfortunately, the constraints of home and work often keep this dream at arms length. The time needed to drive a rig to South America is likely the biggest barrier to taking the plunge. One solution would be to fly and drive, but finding a trustworthy rental car company to provide a reliable vehicle to drive off into the sunset can be daunting.