Getting You Started With The Right Overlanding Accessories

The weather is getting warmer, and it's still not too late to plan your next road trip! Going out to the bush and enjoying as much as fresh air can be the best way to spend your weekends or holidays.

I'm always asked this question by those who are starting out is - "what are the best accessories to jump start my off road trip?" 

And while I don't consider myself to be an expert when it comes to offroading, I do understand the difficulties and how overwhelming it can be to decide which outdoor items should be brought and prioritized to make sure that your overlanding trip goes smoothly and memorable. So I asked the rest of the Off Road Tents Team for their favorites and must -have gear when going out whether it's for an overnight road trip or a week-long camping trip.

1. Reliable Tent

This is a must. And we believe that you should never compromise when it comes to your roof top tent. We recommend getting a Roof Top Tent especially when you have good quality, durable Roof Racks. (Not sure how to get a roof rack? Check it HERE.)

If this is your first time to get a RTT, we suggest the Nosara Softshell RTT from Guana Equipment. The tent is made of 420D waterproof polyester oxford canvas with a heavy duty travel cover. Bonus part of this tent is that it comes with a fairly large annex and ladder. What makes our team love this tent is the skylight window feature and the spacious interior that can fit up to 3 people. You'd definitely enjoy the view from the tent especially when gazing at the stars at night.

2. Comfortable Camping Chairs

Traveling with extra chairs is quite difficult because of the size but thanks to Front Runner , you won't have to worry about it. You can definitely get yourself and your companions extra chairs without occupying so much space. The Front Runner Expander chair is easily stored in limited spaces as it folds down to the size of a laptop. Most importantly, you can use these chairs for overlanding, picnics, outdoor concerts and camping.

3. Sturdy Portable Fridge

National Luna Weekender fridge is probably one of the best purchases I had last year, and one of the best freezers in the market and we highly recommend this especially if you're planning to bring foods that can easily get spoiled. You can thank us later when you're drinking your very cold beer from the freezer in the middle of this summer heat.

4. Water Tank

Definitely an essential. My worst nightmare is going to a place accidentally where there is no access to clean water. Good thing, Front Runner offers a wide range of water tanks so you can just choose which one that will suit your style.  We like the Pro Water Tank With Strap / 42L as it is everything you need for adventure hydration, all included in one kit. This tank offers an easily accessible water source, securely strapped to your roof rack or free for campsite usage. M

5. Lighting 

It's always best and safe to make sure that your traveling with a high performance light so you'll be confident even when you reach the darkest corners of your travel. This  40" LED Light Bar FX1000-CB SM / 12V/24V / Single Mount by Osram and supplied by Front Runner delivers an impressive high beam performance. The combination of near field and far field illumination makes it ideal to brighten any adventure. As someone who hates the dark, this lighting equipment is a life saver!

6. Easy to Use Awning

A roof rack awning for your car can take your off-road trips experience to a higher level! Why should you get one? Obviously, the major advantage of having an awning is getting covered, especially when you go on a summer trip. It provides you with a good shade when you want to stop over in the middle of your trip. This is also beneficial during winter and rainy days.

It’s an amazing feeling when you can set up a table and prepare or eat food outside while enjoying your surroundings and without having to worry about getting wet or getting a sunburn. 

If you are looking for awnings that can be easily assembled and compact, here are our favorites: the Morpho 270 Batwing by Guana Equipment (as shown on the picture) , Eezi Awn Awning Wall Set, the Rhino-Rack Compact Batwing 270 Awning and the Eezi Awn Bat 270 Awning

7. Storage Cases

This is absolutely a must-have. You don’t need to be a Marie Kondo fan to recognize the importance of organizing your stuff, especially when you go on a road trip. You will enjoy more of your outdoor experience if you know where to find your tools and not have to spend most of your time looking or regretting that you forgot to bring your favorite gear. The right storage case will make a difference in your journey. Make an extra cargo space when you have workable and stackable containers like the Wolf Pack Pro by Front Runner Outfitters or the Rhino-Rack Masterfit Roof Box if you’re looking for a sleek design while offering spacious interior that can carry up to 530L

8. Portable Grill

Make the experience of cooking outdoors convenient and enjoyable. We suggest Front Runner Outfitters Box Braai / BBQ Grill. The best thing about it is that it is perfect for offroaders who like to cook or grill. You can bring it anywhere and store it easily as it can be folded and packed flat. Another option if you don’t have enough space and you want to experience cooking outside while camping is the Spare Tire Mount Braai/ BBQ Grate. As the name suggests, you can bring and store this over your spare wheel and it won’t take any of your cargo bed space.

9. Drawer System 

Want to take your organizing and storage solution to the next level? How about getting a durable and efficient Drawer System to make sure that all your valuables are secured. This is probably one of the best upgrades that you can do for your rig as having a flexible pull-out vehicle drawers can help you minimize the time you spend loading and unpacking, and allows you to enjoy your time off more.

Comes partly pre-assembled and easy to install, Decked has custom cut vehicle drawer systems specifically designed for Australia’s favorite vehicles from these trusted brands: Chevrolet, Ford, Mazda, Volkswagen, Mitsubishi, GMC, Nissan, Holden, RAM and Toyota. Send our team a message if you want to find a Decked Storage or Drawer Solution for your ute. 

10. Roof Racks and Cross Bars

Now, here’s the most important part. Before you consider buying all these cool and 100% useful accessories, you have to make sure that your car has the right roof rack or cross bars.

A roof rack is necessary when you need to load and carry heavy or bulky gear on top of your car, like your rooftop tent, bike, fishing or any sports and Overlanding accessory. 

A basic rack system consists of crossbars and supports. You need two crossbars to go across your vehicle and a way of attaching those bars to your vehicle.

If you need help in finding the right cross bar, roof rack, and tray for your car, send us a message and we’d be happy to recommend one. Email your inquiry to info@offroadtents.com.au

I hope this helps and hopefully remind you of the important accessories you may want to get for your upcoming trip. Have fun, stay safe and enjoy the Great Outdoor!

Join our Facebook Community, feel free to ask questions and learn from other off road enthusiasts. Get tips and share your amazing camping set up. Find our group here: The Roof Top Tents Group.