For self-reliant explorers with a penchant for adventure, America’s national parks provide all the breathtaking views and untamed wilderness needed for the perfect overlanding experience. Before you set out on your journey, there are some tips to keep in mind to get the most out of your trip.
Use the right vehicle
First things first, it’s essential you travel in a suitable overlanding vehicle that combines comfort, capability and reliability. Whether you’re seeking a mid-size or full-size truck, a body-on-frame SUV, or a spacious transit van, there’s a vehicle for every kind of overlanding adventure.
Toyotas are held in high esteem in the overlanding community and are a reliable option for your trip. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you’re traversing technical terrain, like deep sand or river crossings.
Check rules and guidelines
First, it’s essential that you check the rules and regulations for the specific park you’re visiting before setting off on your trip. For example, you may need to make a reservation or obtain a permit before entering certain parks. In some places, you might also be required to stick to designated routes to help preserve natural ecosystems, as well as for your own safety.
While it’s not the fun part of planning an overlanding trip, adhering to these requirements is a necessity. It’s best to ensure you have all the required passes sooner rather than later, so you don’t face any hurdles when you arrive at your chosen park.
Prepare to face the elements
Conditions can be harsh in many of America’s national parks. For instance, Death Valley (nicknamed the ‘hottest place on Earth’) once reached an impressive temperature of 134°F in 1913, while Denali National Park is known for extreme winds and snowfall, with its coldest temperature recorded as -54°F in the winter of 1999.
It goes without saying that equipping yourself to potentially face harsh conditions is very important. Don’t underestimate how much water you’ll need, and be sure to pack essentials that are easily overlooked, like sunscreen. But remember, this isn’t just a day on the beach, or a walk in the park on a snowy winter’s day – you need to do plenty of research to make sure you have everything you need to navigate severe conditions, including emergency and first aid items.
Stick to Leave No Trace principles
There are seven principles of Leave No Trace that help us to explore natural places ethically and responsibly:
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Plan ahead and prepare
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Travel and camp on durable surfaces
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Dispose of waste properly
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Leave what you find
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Minimize campfire impacts
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Respect wildlife
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Be considerate of other visitors
Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash
Each of these seven principles plays a part in ensuring our wild spaces stay safe from human activity and thrive for years to come. They are all equally important, and they all serve a purpose, which is to protect the local fauna and flora and their habitats. By following them, you’ll leave your adventure having done no harm to the stunning natural places you explored and enjoyed.
Why choose an overlanding adventure?
Overlanding offers a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with the unique landscapes of America’s national parks. Rather than planning a day trip or sticking to a small campsite, choose an overlanding trip for a taste of the nomadic lifestyle. So long as you check the rules and guidelines, prepare for the conditions, and keep the Leave No Trace principles at the forefront of your mind, you’ll have the adventure of a lifetime.
