Top 10 Good Habits for Overlanding

How to Avoid Being “That Guy” on the Trail

At American Adventure Lab, we know that overlanding is about adventure, independence, and... occasionally, making sure you don't have to call for a tow truck in the middle of nowhere. Whether you’re a pro at sleeping under the stars or a weekend warrior looking for an excuse to buy cool gear, these are the habits you need to adopt to keep things fun and safe. Plus, we’ll throw in some handy product recommendations, because why not?

1. Plan Your Route, But Don’t Be a GPS Zombie

Sure, you’ve got a GPS, but the trail is unpredictable. What if you come across a herd of mountain goats having a family reunion on your chosen path? Plot your route, but be ready to reroute like a seasoned pro. And speaking of pros, having our Auxiliary Power System means your navigation tools will never run out of juice, no matter how many detours you take.

2. Give Your Rig Some Love Before the Trip

Think of your vehicle like your best adventure buddy. You wouldn’t drag your best friend on a grueling hike without making sure they’re ready, right? Before you hit the trail, check the essentials: tires, fluids, and those cool add-ons from American Adventure Lab (like our Battery Management Systems or Roof Rack Mounts). Because breaking down in the middle of nowhere is only fun in the movies.

3. Pack Like a Pro, Not Like You’re Moving Out

Overpacking is the overlander’s version of shooting yourself in the foot. Keep it tight. Multi-use gear is your friend. If you're not sure what to bring, our Gear Mounting Solutions are perfect for securing your must-haves while keeping your load light. And yes, you can leave behind that “emergency” fondue set. (We know, it’s hard.)

4. Be Nice to Mother Nature – She’s Got a Long Memory

Tearing up trails or leaving trash behind? That’s a no-go. Stick to the path, pick up after yourself, and for the love of all that’s overland-y, don’t be “that guy” with the Instagram post of his rig tearing through fragile terrain. You’ll feel much better when your rig is equipped with our eco-friendly Accessory Mounts and racks that keep everything secure and organized, leaving you free to enjoy the ride guilt-free.

5. Stay Organized, So You Don’t End Up Playing Hide-and-Seek with Your Tools

Overlanding doesn’t have to feel like an episode of Survivor: Glove Box Edition. Keep your gear where you can find it. Our Storage Solutions are built to help you avoid the dreaded “I swear it’s in here somewhere” moment when you really need that wrench... or snack. Because no one wants to be hangry in the wild.

6. Know When to Fold ‘Em (and When to Not Get Stuck in the First Place)

You might be tempted to test your rig’s limits, but the wilderness is not the place to find out if you can handle Moab's craziest trails right out of the gate. Know your skills, know your rig, and know that our Magnetic Tablet Mount will keep your trail maps steady so you don’t accidentally steer yourself into a boulder.

7. Don’t Go Off the Grid Without a Backup Plan

The middle of nowhere? That’s your jam. But when your phone signal gives you the silent treatment, having a way to communicate is crucial. Keep a satellite phone or a trusty two-way radio at the ready. And with our Power Systems, your communication devices will stay charged, even if you accidentally fall asleep under the stars binge-watching trail videos.

8. Be Ready for the Unexpected (Like That Time Your Buddy Got Stuck in a Mud Pit)

You might be prepared, but that doesn’t mean your overlanding buddies are. Pack a first aid kit and recovery tools because, let’s face it, someone is going to need a tow at some point. Our Recovery Gear Mounts make it easy to grab your equipment when things get sticky (literally). Plus, nothing says “I’m the trail hero” like being the one with the winch.

9. Treat Your Supplies Like Precious Gold

When you're off the beaten path, there's no 7-Eleven around the corner. You need to be a resource ninja. Conserve your water, fuel, and snacks like you’re on a reality TV survival show. And to make sure you don’t run out of power, grab one of our Solar Panel Kits. Trust us, your future sunburned self will thank you when you can still run the fridge and keep your drinks cold.

10. Buddy Up or At Least Tell Someone Where You’re Going

Overlanding is more fun with friends, and way safer. If you're a lone wolf, at least leave someone back home with a “I’ll be back by...” plan. Whether you’re rolling deep or going solo, equip your rig with an American Adventure Lab Roof Rack to bring all your gear and make sure you're not the guy who forgot the essentials.

Final Thoughts

Overlanding is about freedom and exploration, but you don’t want your adventure to turn into an episode of Unsolved Mysteries. By following these habits (and, of course, equipping your rig with the best from American Adventure Lab), you'll be prepared for whatever the wild throws at you. Check out our website for top-notch gear, and get ready to overland like a pro!