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GoPro Magnetic Quick Connect by 67 Designs

67 DESIGNS, 67d, GoPro mount, magnetic mount

67 designs, the leader in device mounting solutions, is thrilled to unveil its latest innovation: the GoPro Magnetic Quick Connect. Designed for adventurers, YouTubers, and social media influencers, this innovative mount revolutionizes the way GoPro cameras are used, offering unparalleled ease and efficiency. 

The Ultimate Tool for Adventure Enthusiasts and Social Media Influencers

Unmatched Convenience and Speed: The GoPro Magnetic Quick Connect is a game-changer for those who need to swiftly remove their cameras, check settings, change batteries, and resume filming without missing a beat. It embodies the perfect blend of simplicity and security – easy enough to separate by hand, yet robust enough to keep the GoPro securely in place during dynamic activities.

Proudly Made in the USA: This attachment point stands out with it’s proud American craftsmanship. Meticulously designed and manufactured in the USA, it delivers quality and durability.

Versatile Mounting Options:

Option #1 – Clamp2ClampTM Carbon Fibre Arm Attachment: This setup includes a 20mm metal ball, allowing the GoPro Magnetic Quick Connect to attach seamlessly to the end of a Carbon Fiber Series Clamp2ClampTM Arm (sold separately). It mounts directly to die-cast aluminum clamps, offering a sturdy and reliable connection.

Option #2 – Direct 20mm Ball or Ball2BallTM Arm Connection: Ideal for those seeking flexibility, this option connects to any 20mm diameter ball on a base or a Ball2BallTM Arm (sold separately). It’s an excellent alternative and of course, tailored with the GoPro fingers.

GoPro Magnetic Quick Connect – BUY HERE

Note to Customers: GoPro cameras and accessories, including the black threaded knob shown in images, are sold separately by GoPro and are displayed for demonstration purposes only.

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For more information on 67 Designs and their products CLICK HERE

Get North – Overlanding In The Canadian Rockies

Icefields Parkway, four wheel campers, overlanding, overland, canada, bc,

“My neck is sore,” I commented.

My wife, Louise, replied, “Mine too, as she strained her neck yet again to view the magnificent mountains and glaciers outside her passenger window.”  It was day three of our Canadian Rockies trip, but both of us kept stretching our necks to capture another amazing view.  Undoubtably, we were in the presence of shear, natural beauty.  For a minute, we paused and didn’t say a word to one another.  It would be futile to convey what we saw outside our Tacoma’s windshield.  We simply smiled as we marveled at successive “postcard” moments in the Canadian Rockies.  

A few days prior, Louise and I had loaded our Toyota Tacoma and Four Wheel Camper in preparation to venture north from our home in Park City, Utah.  It was mid-July, and temperatures were climbing.  We yearned for cooler days and for adventures in the Canadian Rockies.  Our packing list included hiking gear, paddleboards, and fly-fishing equipment. Oh, and bear spray!  We were ready.  

We crossed the Utah border at the small town of Eureka, Montana.  The beauty surrounding this northern Montana town deserved further exploration, but we focused on the traveling farther north.  The border crossing was relatively uneventful. The Canadian border guard was curious about the Four Wheel Camper and Toyota Tacoma and asked several high-interest questions.  Minutes later, we drove north on Highway 95. The highway signs indicating kilometers. I managed my speed appropriately. Unfortunately, the all-too-common wildfire season was in full force which limited our visibly.  I had driven this highway previously and boasted to Louise about the mountains and the views.  Sadly, she was not able to see any of it.  All she saw was smoke.   We continued north and stopped briefly to top off our fuel tank in Canal Flats, British Columbia.   

We drove east toward Lussier Hot Springs in Whiteswan Provincial Park. We aired down to drive the many miles of gravel/dirt roads ahead.  As we gained altitude, we both began to see the sun.  Just a few miles back, the sun was covered in a thick, smoke-filled sky.  But now, we realized we had escaped the smoke and pollution as we climbed higher into the Canadian Rockies.  The hot springs was located on the south side of the dirt road and well-marked.  We grabbed our suits and quickly ventured down the banks of the Lussier River to soak.  There were six to seven different pools.  The temperature of the water was ideal, and we basked in the natural beauty surrounding us.  Refreshed and relaxed, we continued on the road to find a beautiful, dispersed campsite. I popped open the top of the Four Wheel Camper while Louise lit the stove and prepared dinner.   We finished the evening taking our dog Ruby for a walk and, later, sipping a cocktail while staring across Whiteswan Lake.  At 10:30 p.m., daylight prevailed; but we needed our sleep. 

Kootenay River, overlanding, overland, canada, bc,

The following day found us motoring along a dirt road paralleling the Kootenay River.  This massive river runs south into the US.  We hadn’t seen a soul since the day before, so we were startled to see a man waving us down on motorcycle.  He had lost air in his rear tire and asked if we had an air compressor.  Miles from nowhere, we smiled and were happy to oblige with our EZ FLATE M.O.A.B. air compressor.  In a matter of minutes, his tire was filled and he continued south.  Roughly 30 miles later, we aired up and turned east on pavement to Banff, Alberta.  We had intersected Highway 93 and found ourselves in the middle of Kootenay National Park.  Vehicle traffic increased and our eyes scanned left and right for wildlife.  The Canadian road crews mow a large and wide shoulder back from the pavement.  It increases the safety for both humans and animals.  We yearned to see a bear but were left with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and glacial-blue rivers.  Yep, the drive and scenery did not disappoint!  We stopped at Numa Falls to stretch our legs and view the powerful waterfall cutting through the canyon.   Onward to Banff.

EZ FLATE, overland, overlanding, canada, BC,

For the most part, in terms of camping, the national parks in Canada are similar to those in the United States.  Camping is restricted to established campgrounds; dispersed camping is not allowed.  I made camp-site reservations for this trip in late March, about four months early.  I would recommend the sooner, the better.  The Canadian National Park campground reservations fill up fast.  Yes, some first-come, first-serve sites remain available, but we didn’t want to have the pressure or stress to find such a site each day.   

Passing a few elk grazing, we pulled into the Tunnel Mountain Campground.  I’m not a huge fan of campgrounds but in a national park, it is a necessary evil.  After conversing with a few travelers about the Four Wheel Camper and Toyota Tacoma, we took much-needed hot showers.   Many of the campgrounds offer free, hot showers—a blessing after being on the road a few days.   I grabbed a few logs from the campground’s free firewood pile and started a small campfire while Louise prepared dinner.  After dinner, I washed the dishes, and we both relaxed around the campfire.  Once again, we noticed the light of day when we realized it was close to 11:00 p.m.  We turned in for a good night’s rest.  

The following morning, we made a quick stop at Banff for a few supplies but departed quickly due to the number of tourists walking the street.  Banff is the epicenter of the Canadian Rockies and beckons nationalities from all over the world.  Sometimes, it’s fun to see and hear the diverse crowd.   However, we wanted to escape the crowds, so we traveled north on the Icefields Parkway to Bow Lake.  This glacier fed lake appeared a stunning turquoise blue.  We donned our backpacks and hiked around the north shore of the lake to Bow Glacier Falls. One of the unique attributes of the Canadian National Parks is that visitors are allowed to hike with a leashed dog.  Our dog, Ruby, was in heaven as she bounded with us around the lake. In the distance, we glimpsed the cascading falls but were enthralled by expansive view right in front of us.  We hiked to spot just below the falls and observed the glacial runoff.  Silty, grayish water rushed past us on its way to Bow Lake.  

Bow lake, oVERLANDING, overland, BC, Canada,

The Icefields Parkway is roughly a 130 mile north-south road that connects Banff and Jasper National Parks. Many have called it one of the most stunning drives in the world.  Postcard photo-ops everywhere you look.  All are magnificent!  There is one gas station along the way; otherwise, it’s wild and remote country. I recommend camping halfway along the route, but we couldn’t reserve a site here and continued to Jasper National Park, at the northern end of the Icefields Parkway.  We turned into our reserved campsite at Wabasso Campground.  That night, the camper’s heater kicked on.  Temperatures can cool, even in the summer.

Jasper, Alberta, presents a whole different feeling and flare than Banff.  Sure, there are tourists but it’s more of a railroad/mountain town then a ritzy, cosmopolitan town of Banff.  We walked the streets looking for a place to get a cup of coffee before heading into Jasper National Park to paddleboard Annette Lake.  After we got our caffeine fix, we headed for Jasper National Park.  Once again, our necks strained to see the mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and eye-popping beauty.  Towering mountains of granite rose above the Athabasca River while glacial blue lakes and rivers laid at their bases.  Eye candy galore! 

Glaciers, overlanding, overland, canada, bc,

We paddled the glass-like waters of Annette Lake at the base of towering granite peaks in relative solitude. Ruby was transfixed on the fish swimming below the clear mountain lake water.   With summer temperatures in the upper 70’s, it felt good to be on the water.   After a few hours, we packed up and traveled back toward our campsite.  With the long daylight hours during the summer months, we decided to sneak in yet another adventure.

We followed the narrow, winding road upward to the Cavell Glacier.  This massive glacier hung on the rock face of the mountain and was easily spotted from the parking lot.  We hiked the trail to Cavell Glacier Lake.  

“Ahhh!  What is that sound?  Where is that sound coming from?”  Louise asked.

We stood frozen on the hiking path and twisted our necks to look for where the sound originated.  

“I’m not sure. Wait, look over there.”  I pointed to the glacier.  We noticed the glacier calving. Large segments careened down the mountainside and splashed into the glacial lake.  The sounds reverberated in the horseshoe-shaped canyon.  Mother Nature continued her work.  Large icebergs floated in the lake that at one time were a part of the massive glacier high above.  The western sun set behind the mountain and the temperature immediately dropped.  We retreated back to our vehicle.  

Cavell Glacier, overlanding, overland, canada, bc

The following day found us frozen.  No, not literally but the wind off the Athabasca Glacier was definitely frigid. The Icefields Parkway passes this massive glacier and beckons the adventurer to explore the foreign landscape.  We parked the truck along the dirt road that at one time was covered in glacial ice.  Sadly, in 1950 according to the sign, the glacier was where we had parked.  Signs marked numerous points where the glacier once existed.  With climate change, we felt amazed and sadden by how far the glacier receded over the years.  The air off the glacier was naturally cool, so we were thankful we wore our down jackets.   We hiked the base of the glacier and stopped to taste the fresh, clean water melting off it.  Glacial goodness!

Athabasca Falls, overlanding, overland, canada, bc,

Mt. Robson marked the farthest North we would get on this adventure.  A cute, little black bear winked at us as I turned the Tacoma southbound days later.  Our necks were sore and grateful for not having to strain yet again as we crossed the US border.  The Canadian Rockies are a vast, untouched wilderness.  Lucky for us, a few roads crisscross this beautiful, postcard-worthy landscape.  Roads that allow us to visit and adventure in this awe-inspiring land. Don’t hesitate.  Get North and explore the Canadian Rockies.

Trip Insights:

  • Obviously, the summer months present an ideal time to travel and adventure.  Expect congestion.
  • Obtain campground reservations as early as possible. Visit Parks Canada to get the latest information and insights.  
  • Go in June to see an abundance of wildlife.  Go in July and August to see wildflowers and glacier blue waters.
  • Purchase fuel in Alberta where it is less expensive than in British Columbia.
  • Bring bug spray, sunscreen, and bear spray.  
  • Visit and explore Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks
  • Bring rain gear.  Rain showers can appear at any time during the day.  
  • Bring warm layers to enjoy your adventure.  There are numerous glaciers in the area.  
  • Buy a day pass for the number of days you will be in the parks.  It will be good for admittance in all national parks.   We traveled through five national parks on our adventure.  

Vehicle Considerations :

  • Generally, all types of vehicles can venture without issue in the Canadian Rockies.
  • Many gravel roads can be driven and explored, so make sure your vehicle’s tires are in excellent shape.
  • Four Wheel Camper’s, Fleet Model, is a great camper for two people.  Stove, sink, refrigerator, heater, outdoor shower, and king bed make it an ideal home away from home. 

For More Inspiring Overlanding Trips CLICK HERE

Antishanty Off-Road Trailers

Antishanty trailers, off-road trailers, overland trailers, overland overlanding,
Anti Shanty Official Logo

We are AntiShanty. We build ultra-lightweight, insulated, four-season, modular adventure dwellings. Built for off-road. Aircraft-grade aluminum construction means lifetime durability and no wood to rot or mold. Our dwellings can adapt to your needs, whether you want to sleep six people or haul motorcycles and mountain bikes. We are proud to do all of our manufacturing right here in Logan, UT, USA. We are a team of outdoor enthusiasts with different passions of mountain biking, skiing, snowmobiling, dirt biking, hiking, hunting, and fishing. 

Antishanty trailers, off-road trailers, overland trailers, overland overlanding,

The AS-1 is the A-Frame pop-up camper that has 9+ feet of headroom, with two queen bunks when in Camp Mode. The queen beds are completely modular for hauling mountain bikes, motorcycles, and quads. Perfect for a basecamp with the space and refuge you need. 

The RR-1 is a Rigid Roof trailer that is camp-ready the moment you park it. Over 6 feet of headroom gives you space to stand and haul toys underneath the adjustable queen bed. Zero setup time enables folks to get the most out of their trip.

The AS and the RR models are available in 4 trims that deliver complete packages from the bare-bones shells to super high-tech off-grid ready. Designed for folks who love the outdoors and want to experience the most from their time outside. Think about having an adventure van, but without having to give up your daily driver and without having to clean up camp if you want to hit the trailhead or head into town for some essentials. 

Antishanty trailers, off-road trailers, overland trailers, overland overlanding,

The trim levels don’t change the size of the trailer, just the bells and whistles that come with it:

BASE: This trim level is ideal for the do-it-yourselfers and the minimalists. It’s got all of the functionality and modularity without all the electrical. We have seen many customers start with the BASE and add their own power systems, heaters, water systems, etc. Weight: 1900 lbs.

PLUS: The PLUS is perfect for those minimalists wanting a little bit of power, lights, heat, electrical, but not too much. Everything you need, nothing you don’t. Still a lot of flexibility for adding additional power, accessories, and features. 

Weight: 2,200 lbs.

Antishanty trailers, off-road trailers, overland trailers, overland overlanding,

PRO: Our Flagship model, the PRO. It’s got all of the solar, battery, heat, A/C, water, fridge/freezer that you would need, with all of the same modularity and versatility that makes ANTISHANTY stand apart. Has everything you need, plus some. 

Weight: 2,500lbs. 

Antishanty trailers, off-road trailers, overland trailers, overland overlanding,

LIMITED: The LIMITED is quickly becoming the most popular choice. It is the top of the top. Has double the amount of solar, battery, and electrical capacity than the PRO. Comes with dual side Kitchen Boxes, MOLLE Panel Kit, and the On Demand Hot Water System. This unit is ready for months of off-grid exploration!

Weight: 2,700 lbs. 

Antishanty trailers, off-road trailers, overland trailers, overland overlanding,

If you want to DWELL DIFFERENT and elevate your outdoor lifestyle, CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

While you are ordering your ANTISHANTY, we are going to be enjoying the outdoors with ours. 

Contact: info@antishanty.com – (435) 774 2945

The above article is a Sponsored Post. TAP does NOT receive any commissions from sales originating from this article.

The Adventure Portal – Show Reel

The Adventure Portal – Telling stories of Overlanding and Vehicle Supported Adventure.

The Desert Cruisers – The Overland Adventurer Series 

The desert cruiser, F450, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND, OFF-ROAD,

“The Overland Adventurer Series,” TAP’s monthly feature on individuals who genuinely embody the Overland Life. Today we’re talking with Cody and Christina, also known as The Desert Cruisers 

Let’s dive right in. 

Thanks for sitting down with us Guys. Tell us a about yourself and what was the inspiration behind starting the trail down “The Desert Life”?


Thanks for having us! Christina and I met in college 8 years ago and have been inseparable since. About 5 months into our relationship, we started traveling, and the idea of living full-time on the road crept into our minds. Sprinter Vans became a fascination during our travels, and meeting someone living full time in a van 7 years ago solidified our interest! The desert holds a special place in our hearts as we both grew up near Joshua Tree, California, and there’s nothing quite like the peaceful desert mornings with expansive views and stunning sunrises and sunsets! 

“Overlanding” is the catch all description these days, so that said, do you consider yourself Vanlifers, Overlanders or is there simply a better description that makes more sense to you? Maybe just Adventurers?


I would say we are simply adventurers; the mode of transportation does not matter and as long as we are out in the wild doing our thing, we are happy! 

The desert cruiser, F450, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND, OFF-ROAD,

You started your journey in a Sprinter Van? We all know that IG is rainbows and unicorns, so give us the real skinny of life on the road in a van.


Actually, we didn’t start our van life journey in a Sprinter van. I (Cody) had a Chevy City Express van long before ‘van life’ was a trend! Equipped with a cot and surrounded by bikes, I traveled the West Coast for races. When Christina and I met in 2016, we began traveling in that van, covering 30,000+ miles across California, Arizona, Utah, and more. 

The Sprinter van joined our adventures two years later, and luckily, we faced no major issues. Over 4 years, we built and lived in the Sprinter, loving every second. Spending 24/7 together is easy for us, but the only downside was not having an indoor shower for post-mountain biking or hiking adventures. Life on the road in our van was incredible! 

Following on from this, you’ve made a significant platform change. Tell us about the new project and why you chose this direction?


Yes, Mr. Roamer, the platform change boiled down to three major reasons: a more capable vehicle that can be serviced anywhere, space for future children, and the luxury of an indoor heated shower. With popular spots overrun, we opted for a rig that could navigate any trail, granting us the solitude of the backcountry! And our dream of traveling with kids meant we needed more living space, multiple seats to sit in while driving and a dedicated sleeping location for them! The addition of a shower with 94 gallons of water onboard transformed our active lifestyle, offering unlimited hot water. And, of course, the truck just looks way cooler than a van! 

The desert cruiser, F450, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND, OFF-ROAD,

What stage are you in the build and what’s been the craziest thing you’ve encountered in the process?


We’ve actually wrapped up the build—well, as ‘done’ as one can be on a project of this scale. We are expecting ongoing tweaks and additions over the years though LOL. Throughout the process we definitely acquired new skills, leveraging our van build knowledge, but the most frustrating aspect was the unreliability of people nowadays— not the craziest, but certainly a challenge! Speaking of crazy, the persistently wet Southern California weather during construction was a constant hurdle we had to navigate! 

The desert cruiser, F450, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND, OFF-ROAD,

The build you chose has obviously been a lot of work, so if you had to do it all over again, would you and if so, is there anything you’d do differently?


It’s been a massive undertaking, and we wouldn’t change a thing—we’re proud of the planning, effort, and dedication poured into it! However, with total financial freedom, we might have opted for a higher quality box. While our current box is great, achieving the desired quality required extra effort. In an ideal scenario, we’d choose a cab-over design with a king-size bed over the cab and a raised u-shaped seating area in the back— transforming into another king-size bed. In my opinion, it’s the absolute best layout for a rig of this size! 

The desert cruiser, F450, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND, OFF-ROAD,

So, what does 2024 look like? Any major trips planned? 

2024 is off to a start much like 2023, with our hands full working on the truck! However, our focus has shifted from building to showcasing all the content documented throughout the process. Our website, thedesertcruisers.com, will have all the details about the build, informational blogs, and a roughly 12-part video series on The Desert Cruisers YouTube documenting every aspect of the build. While we’re thrilled to see the content come to life, the real excitement is taking the truck on the road and using it to the fullest potential! Upcoming plans include Baja, followed by Spring adventures in Arizona and Utah, with the ultimate goal of reaching Canada for peak summer mountain biking! 

The desert cruiser, F450, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND, OFF-ROAD,

There’s so many rig platforms and gear to choose from, so any sage advice for folks who are looking at taking up the lifestyle?


That is a tough one with so many variables, BUT I would say to get a rig you can afford, that will take you all the places you want to go, with enough storage to haul all of your gear and to simply take the leap! There is no better time to take the leap of faith than now… 

Finally, any fun trail stories to share? 

There isn’t ONE memory that stands out… there are honestly too many good ones to share! We actually hand write a journal of all of our travels, the good stuff is hidden in there! 

Thanks for your time today, Cody and Christina. Stay healthy and safe and see you in the backcountry! 

Instagram: @thedesertcruiser

YouTube: The Desert Cruisers

Website: thedesertcruiser.com

Editors Note: Check out thedesertcruiser.com for upcoming full interior reveal.

For more in the Adventurer Series CLICK HERE

A Journey And Evolution Into Our Winnebago EKKO

The journey that led to our current Winnebago EKKO began with an Airstream Argosy, a hidden gem we found nestled in Northern Washington, seemingly plucked from the pages of a treasure hunter’s tale. This vintage beauty, twin beds, a bathroom, and the unmistakable charm of an Airstream, soon shaped our love for travel on the road. Who would have known! 

As our Airstream began to shape our idea of camping, we started to see how much more we could discover in our travels with a “home on wheels” so to speak. We found ourselves exploring state parks and KOA campsites in a whole different way. Conveniences, warmth and shelter. 

off-road, overland, overlanding, Airstream,

As our three sons grew older, our travel demands expanded accordingly. Recognizing the necessity for a more practical means to explore unfamiliar areas as a family of five, especially with the merging of travel and sports activities, we felt compelled to pursue a van—an all-inclusive experience for our adventures on the road. Influenced by the ideas emerging from the internet “Van Life” was the thing, YouTube showing every build possible and endless possibilities. 

After countless months of searching, we found our 2006 Mercedes Sprinter Van in, of all places, Colliersville, TN. What once was employed as a luxury transport vehicle driving executives and golfers place to place had found itself in the state of retirement. It was adorned with leather seats, a rear bench bed conversion, burl wood interior, seating for 10, sort of a limo style build. It felt like our ticket to the pinnacle of adventure. I promptly flew from Portland, Oregon to Tennessee and took the old gal out of retirement and we were off and at it again. 

Modifications swiftly followed: a custom designed roof rack (got to hold some gear), shore plug power and a primitive attempt at solar power. As rookies in this realm, we navigated years of camping, shuttling our boys to and from sporting events across Nevada, California and Oregon. It was perfect for our family, all the while exploring natural marvels along our journeys, turning what typically would be a plane ride of sights at 30,000 feet to ground level unforgettable memories and camping trips. 

sprinter, rv, off-road, overlanding, overland,

Our newly chartered adventures included the Coastal line of HWY 101, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, and New Mexico. The open roads created a treasure trove of memories: stories shared, debates over rest stops and food choices, and the thrill of setting camp by rivers or oceans. We even moved two of our oldest boys to college in the old gal. 

But soon another new chapter awaited us. As our eldest two sons embraced adulthood and our youngest embarked on his college journey, we found ourselves facing another decision, build the Sprinter or look for something already road ready meeting our new demands. After about 1 month of the self-build idea, we called it and decided to look for something already built out. 

The transition brought excitement and our zest for adventure remained undeterred, but our aspirations now leaned towards creature comforts: a shower, a stationary toilet, off grid capabilities and managed climate control within a manageable-sized vehicle. When I say manageable size vehicles, we were spoiled by pulling in out of city parking lots, maneuvering through towns with ease and exploring remote areas, the bill to fit this seemed a little tough. 

The quest commenced, Michelle, the tireless researcher, led us to the unveiling of a new chapter – the 2022 Winnebago EKKO, affectionately known as “Bad Betty.” AWD-equipped, Bad Betty signaled the start of a fresh wave of adventures and discoveries. 

winnebago, ekko, rv, off-road, overlanding, overland,

So, what does travel in an Winnebago EKKO or van truly entail? For us, we found it to be a subjective tapestry woven with lifestyle choices, the march of time (yes, that word again—aging) and the interplay of goals, resources, and objectives. 

Planning the Trip/Adventure:

Typically, our travel adventures are still somewhat primitive in thought, but fueled with the modern conveniences of the internet and mobile apps. Where did the days go of the trusty old AAA road map, highlighters and scratch pad, maybe even a Thomas Guide. Now we find ourselves with the GasBuddy app searching the closest and best priced fuel the territory can offer along with a Google Earth and maps, Overlanding apps, and then of course the almighty Youtube channel. Planning becomes an art: the canvas, our cell phones and the road. 

Starting the day for travel in our Winnebago EKKO:

The ritualistic pre-road checks. — Pop the old bonnet, (Hood) to check a few vital fluids, oil, coolant, brake fluid and of course the one so often missed until there’s an insect hazard on the window, the trusty old windshield fluid. (I find it best to use the Winter Version, seems to clean better anyway). All systems Check! 

Now it’s time to move on to check the rubber that meets the road, yes, the tire pressure. Thank goodness it’s all digitally fed now, no more need for the old pocket gauge, although I do keep one on board for airing down at times. With tires inspected I quickly move on to checking all the lights. Starting with the headlights, turn signals, running lights, the works. 

Shifting my attention to inspecting the LP tanks, water levels, gray tank, and our onboard solar charging system, diligently jotting down notes as I go. A comprehensive checklist proves invaluable, offering a chance to savor the adventure rather than worrying about overlooked pre-departure tasks. 

It’s now time to check all the onboard storage and garage of Bad Betty our Winnebago EKKO. I meticulously recheck my tool bags and cargo bags, ensuring essentials like the electrical tester, tow rope, screwdrivers, Torx wrench for unconventional screws, LP leak detector, recovery boards (just in case we encounter deep snow or sand), first aid kit, tire repair kit, portable tire inflator, and an array of items for quick repairs. And, of course, the indispensable DUCT TAPE! Our go-to cooking companion, the Trail Fire Grill, is a must-pack. Also, don’t overlook loading up the floaties, snowshoes, skis, bikes—or whatever gear aligns with your adventure plans. Always double-check your outdoor and adventure gear before hitting the road. 

With the initial inspections complete, it’s time to start inventorying and packing up some food and clothing, of course toiletries as well. We inventory what we have on hand in Bad Betty, at the house and quickly make note of what we need for a quick stop at the market.

sprinter, rv, overland, overlanding,

This brings us right into meal planning, breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner, and of course dessert. Here’s a few tips on meal planning. Let’s go with Breakfast and Dinner. Now how can we create a little culinary experience? The breakfast burrito love affair. 

After a steak or hamburger dinner, envision saving a portion for the morning. But wait, dinner often introduces potatoes and veggies too—why not include those in the leftovers for a breakfast burrito? Voila! Two meals in one harmonious blend, where dinner and breakfast shake hands in a delicious pact. 

Let’s zoom ahead to lunchtime: Lunch isn’t just about satisfying hunger, fueling the day’s caloric intake is important for those hikes and trails ahead. We typically love grilling brats, sauteed onions and chips on the side. 

I almost forgot about snacks and dessert. Campfire Banana Boats: Cut a banana lengthwise (without peeling it completely) and stuff it with chocolate chips, marshmallows, nuts, or any other desired fillings. Wrap it in foil and place it over the campfire or on your Trail Fire Grill until the fillings are melted and the banana is soft. 

Safety checks complete, meals planned, gear loaded, fueled up and ready to hit the road! 

Destinations:

If it’s winter camping, we typically check out some State Parks that may be open, or head up to the mountains and find forestry roads that beckon exploration or simply dig in near or at a ski resort. Doing whatever it takes to embrace the present season is the key. I must confess, winter camping holds its own charm—the stunning beauty of snow veiling the forest, the roads turning into a mesmerizing winter wonderland. 

One of our other favorite places is the beach. If you’re in Oregon, and want to find yourself driving on the beach, check out Tierra Del Mar just a few miles North of Pacific City. 

I should probably mention, Pacific City is quite the spot to chill as well, great State Park campground as well as a privately owned option. Besides its a slice of heaven with sand between our toes, waves serenading you and possibly a cold-water plunge followed by a little beach side campfire. 

For High Desert enthusiasts, consider exploring Central Eastern Oregon. Here’s a few suggestions: The Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway discovering 14 Alpine Lakes. The Ochoco National Forest, and the Crooked River, for fishing, swimming, and boating, along with ample hiking spots ideal for rock climbing and winter skiing. 

Remember, flexibility is key to adventure. So feel free to mix and match ingredients of travels and discover what awaits you. 

EKKOnesters – Jason and Michelle Rodarte

Check out more Winnebago EKKO adventures by following!

Facebook: EKKONESTERS
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