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The Track Tvan Camper Trailer

tvan camper trailer, track trailer tvan, offroad trailer, offroading, overlanding, overland, overland trailer, xgrid, xgrid campers, track trailers,

The Australian-based Tvan Camper Trailer, launched in 2000, has become well-known. Specifically for its distinct rugged design, strength, and industry-leading off-road capabilities. Widely acclaimed by owners and the media, the Track Trailer Tvan has earned accolades for their continual design improvements and option development. Constantly evolving to meet and exceed expectations!

Key features of the Tvan Camper Trailer include a proprietary, military grade, MC2 Asymmetric Link suspension. The toughest conditions of the outback have tested this proprietary suspension. Designed for self-steer geometry, the Tvan incorporates this feature as well. Allowing the camper to track directly behind the tow vehicle at both high speeds and on rugged terrain.

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The living space on the Tvan Camper Trailer stands out from anything on the market. It features a rear annex room that sits on an elevated deck, offering substantial interior space for sleeping and protection from inclement weather. Furthermore, the Tvan also features an enclosed ensuite that can function as a private changing room, restroom, or be outfitted as a separate kid’s room.

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The custom Quick Cover awning fully engulfs the premium kitchen which provides a large prep area for the outdoor chef. 

Built for the adventure, The Track Tvan Camper Trailer includes a fully integrated power system with the RedArc Redvision including a 30 Amp charging system for shore power, solar and DC-DC, all monitored by the mounted display or via Bluetooth on the mobile app.  Standard components also include a diesel furnace, lithium batteries, and roof-mounted solar that enables you to get off the grid and stay out longer.  Available in 2024 is Track Trailers newest model, the Tvan Lightning which boasts 360W solar, 500Ah Lithium, and induction cooking.

tvan camper trailer, track trailer tvan, offroad trailer, offroading, overlanding, overland, overland trailer, xgrid, xgrid campers, track trailers,

Track Trailer is exclusively imported from Australia to the United States by XGRiD Campers.

XGRiD Campers dedicates itself to helping customers experience the off-grid lifestyle. Through partnerships with the world’s leading overland camper manufacturers and an in-house team of dedicated outdoor enthusiasts. They help the wanderlust adventurer find and configure the right rig for their journey. XGRiD Campers serve customers across the United States, with locations in Las Vegas, NV and Knoxville, TN.  www.xgridcampers.com

Holiday Gift Guide 2023

overlanding gift guide, holiday gift guide 2023, offroading, overlanding gear, overland

‘Tis the season once more, and TAP has curated a collection of 12 fantastic overland gear suggestions to inspire your gift-giving for the overland adventurer in your life. Dive in with confidence – we’ve got your back!

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Grill Game:

Tight Logo No Background 2000 by 1200 copy
Grill Game, fire pit, propane fire, overland, overlanding,

Any Fuel. Any Where. Grill Game has you covered.

One Grill, three fuel sources, unlimited potential. Cook right over a campfire, with propane, or with charcoal as a grill or smoker. The ultra-portable G1 gets further off the beaten path to enjoy your best BBQ ever cooked up out in the middle of nowhere. Choose which of four configurations best suits the circumstances and set up is complete in under a minute. After grilling, the G1 quickly breaks down and packs up to fit within the lid, saving valuable space in your rig while delivering unmatched options to grill and smoke.

It’s undeniable that food cooked over a campfire tastes better. The G1 introduces a lid to open fire cooking. Lock in that smokey flavor and better regulate the temperature to cook, grill, and smoke, rather than simply searing food over an open flame. Not sure where the adventure will lead and what the fire restrictions will be at the location? Assemble the flatpack firebox to grill and smoke with charcoal when campfires aren’t allowed. Even stricter burn bans? Stay compliant: configure the G1 for propane grilling. 

Proudly assembled in the USA and backed by a limited lifetime warranty. The G1 has an all steel construction weighing 17 lbs with 218 sq inches of grilling space and 17,500 BTU’s in the propane configuration. When packed up, it measures just 19” x 13.5” x 6.75”.

Unmatched versatility and portability, the G1 is the ultimate outdoor grilling multi-tool.

MSRP: $249 BUY HERE

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KUAT:

kUAT GLADIATOR PANELS, iBEX PANELS, OVERLANDING, OVERLAND,

Introducing IBEX™ for The Jeep Gladiator! 

Constructed from lightweight yet durable aluminum, it boasts a ballistic black powder coat made for all the nature you can throw at it. Now available for the Jeep Gladiator and equipped with telescoping crossbars, numerous T-channels, and versatile full and mid-height configurations. Engineered for adventure. 

IBEXA2 MSRP: $1489 BUY HERE

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23 ZERO:

Springbak Chair, 23 ZERO, OVERLAND CAMP CHAIR, OVERLANDING,

The 23 Zero Springbak chair offers the trilogy of sturdiness, compactness, and comfort of a take-anywhere camp chair. 

As derived by its name, the Springbak features the latest design bands of shock cord along either side of the chair acting as springs and the double layered padded back and seat provides comfort you won’t find in many camp chairs. 

It weighs 14lbs and has a heavy-duty, coated steel frame construction. It is rated to 330lbs static weight and has large swivel feet avoid ground sinking. An integrated swing-out drink holder accommodates coffee mugs with handles and wine glasses making this a family favorite. A zippered carry bag is also included.

MSRP: $119 BUY HERE

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Lowa:

LOWA BOOTS, OVERLAND, OVERLANDING, TRAIL SHOES
Photo copyright Max Seigal, www.maxwilderness.com

LOWA RENEGADE WARM GTX

With the fit and function of their best-selling Renegade GTX Mid, Lowa added waterproof GORE-TEX® Panda® fleece insulation, a wool cuff trim and VIBRAM®’s super-grippy Evo Icetrek® outsole that is also safe for indoor floors. The result is an incredibly versatile cold weather boot that can go from chilly fall hikes and snowy trails to slick winter sidewalks.

MSRP: $285 BUY HERE

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Midland:

SPK200 SPEAKER, MIDLAND RADIO, OVERLAND, OVERLANDING GEAR,

The Midland’s SPK200 Amplified Speaker with AI Noise Cancellation. This high-performance external speaker is perfect for adventurers looking to take on trails in areas like the Alpine Loop, Death Valley National Park, Engineer Pass, and the Palo Duro Canyon. 

This external speaker is unlike any other with its AI chip. Midland’s new AI chip works to learn the users’ voice in order to cancel out unwanted background noise. This means the clearest, top-notch audio that performs in loud environments, perfect for open-air vehicles. The technologically advanced chip brings in a sound quality that is truly impressive. 

Give loved ones the gift of remarkable communication this holiday season. 

MSRP: $129.99 BUY HERE

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Kakadu:

Swift Pitch Bivy Tent, OVERLAND TENT, OVERLAND GEAR, OVERLANDING,

The Kakadu swift pitch bivy tent is the ultimate touring style bivy tent which delivers on performance, spec and value. Featuring a high quality and unique swift pitch hub system, this tent takes the fuss out of set up and pack down. It features a durable 150D polyoxford 5000mm PU floor with a removable 150D Ripstop® polyoxford 3000mm flysheet to keep you warm and dry. The ultra fine No-See-Um Mesh interior will keep the insects out and provide maximum ventilation. This tent has a compact pack down size and sits inside a durable carry bag with compression straps to further improve pack size and a roll top style to keep contents dry.

MSRP: $99 BUY HERE

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67 Designs:

67 designs, 67d, carbon fiber universal sticky base packs, overland gear, overlanding,

Carbon Fiber Universal Sticky Base – The Perfect Gift for the Tech-Savvy!

Are you searching for the ideal present for the gadget enthusiast in your life? Look no further than the Carbon Fiber Universal Sticky Base, a revolutionary accessory that’s a must-have this holiday season.

**Compact Design, Limitless Possibilities**

With its sleek, minimalist footprint of just 55mm (2.16 inches), the Sticky Base is an example of modern minimalist design. It fits effortlessly into even the most compact workspaces, eliminating the need for mounting arms between a base and holder. This base is perfect for anyone who loves a clean, organized, and efficient setup.

**Versatile and User-Friendly**

What sets the Carbon Fiber Universal Sticky Base apart is its unparalleled adaptability. Designed to work seamlessly with any holder in the Carbon Fiber Series® equipped with a pre-installed 20mm ball, it provides a stable and reliable connection for a variety of devices. Its US-sourced 3M® very high bond material ensures a strong attachment to numerous surfaces, including painted wood, steel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, and cleaned glass.

**Ease of Use**

Installation is straightforward and hassle-free. Simply select a flat surface, clean it, peel the liner from the adhesive, and install. After allowing approximately 24 hours for the adhesive to bond, the base is ready to use. It’s also versatile enough to accommodate a 25.4mm (1”) ball component from other brands with the addition of Dam Adapter clamps (sold separately).

This holiday season, give the gift of convenience and innovation with the Carbon Fiber Universal Sticky Base. It’s not just a tool; it’s an upgrade to any tech lover’s lifestyle!

MSRP: $80 BUY HERE

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Keystone Outdoor Gear:

logo square 600 x 600 3
KEYSTONE OUTDOOR GEAR, CAMPING TABLE

Keystone Outdoor Gear is proud to introduce TakTable®.  Whether weeks off-grid or a day at the beach, this portable table ensures outdoor comfort, making it feel like home!

TakTable® packs down to just 5” x 5” x 39” allowing it to be stowed anywhere, even the trunk of a Mini Cooper.  In just seconds it deploys into a 30” tall, 18” x 39” sturdy table suitable for cooking, dining, work, outdoor sports, or games.

It weighs just 11 pounds and supports over 270 thanks to the patent pending construction including an aluminum top, coated steel legs, and reinforced nylon injection molded plastic parts. The moving parts of this portable table, pinned with brass and steel, ensure a lifetime of reliable use, unlike some tables held together with bungee cords or plastic pins.

Custom stainless steel spring clips hold the base and top tightly together. The base quickly and easily glides between positions.  Specially designed basket feet are suitable for any surface like sand, rock, gravel, and pavement. You can use the incorporated foot holes with the included stakes to pin it to the ground for added security. Windy day?  The unique leg geometry creates turbulence in the wind, resulting in downforce that keeps the table put.  Weatherproof and virtually fireproof, it can take some extreme use and maintain its integrity.  

MSRP: $149 BUY HERE

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Steadfast Systems:

Steadfast systems, tool kits, overlanding, overland,

Steadfast Systems offers world class custom vehicle tool kit solutions. If its got 4 wheels, and helps you get out to adventure these tool kits will be your trusted companion for the road ahead. Adventures often include, prepping, parts replacement, and bolt checks for that elusive rattle.

Steadfast takes care of the long and tiresome process of curating each tool kit down to every last fastener, selecting high quality, great value tools. Gone are the days of throwing a bunch of tools in a bag and hoping they are the right ones for the job.

Keep your adventure going, worrying less about what tools you have with you, and enjoy those experiences that overlanding and vehicle based adventure are all about.

These zero compromise solutions offer the very best tools on the market, housed in a bag that fits everything perfectly.

Every bag is sewn in-house by Steadfast Systems in Montana, featuring US made materials, down to the thread.

Steadfast Systems is here to save you time, money, and get you on the road faster, knowing you have the right tools for the job.

“Lifetime tools for adventures of a lifetime”

MSRP: $790 Standard Kit, $990 Heavy Duty Kit BUY HERE

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Action Trax:

Action Trax

100% made in America: Extreme conditions call for easy solutions. ActionTrax are made in the USA and built to work quickly and safely. Whatever you’re towing, finding a launch and recovery area just got easier.

Our multi-purpose Recovery Trax have a new, improved design with input from elite military units and winning Baja 1000 racers.

Metal teeth: Our ready-to-go extreme version of ActionTrax provides a greater “grab” on the tire – perfect for Heavy Duty use.

ActionTrax manufacture their products in the USA from high-performing DuPont material and unconditionally guarantee them against all defects except burnt teeth from excessive wheel spin.

MSRP: $299 Standard – $399 Metal Teeth BUY HERE

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Pale Blue:

unnamed copy
pALE bLUE, BATTERIES, OVERLAND, OVERLANDING GEAR,

Built for adventure, perfect for the truck, tent, van, camper or home.  Designed and tested for the performance you need, with the convenience you want.  Quick charging by USB, Li-ion power performance, lifetime warranty and you’ll save money and waste and trips back to town just to buy batteries!  Welcome to the reusable revolution.

Our Approach solar chargers are Paleblue’s latest solution to powering lives in a more sustainable and convenient way.  Ruggedized construction and super convenient bungees for positioning your panels mean you can go farther and approach your adventures fully powered. 

Save more this holiday with the Paleblue’s Li-ion AA & AAA Solar Power Kit.

MSRP: $179.99 BUY HERE

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Luno:

Luno,
Luno XRD, camp mattress, overlanding mattress, overland, overlanding,

Our new, limited-edition Air Mattress XRD is the lightest, toughest sleep system we’ve ever made. Crafted from a cold-resistant, ultra-tough nylon ripstop, the XRD is ready for four-season adventures. For overlanding, off-roading, and backroad adventures, there’s no better mattress on the market.

MSRP: $399 BUY HERE

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For even more Overland Gear, Check out TAPs Ultimate Guide HERE

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

The Redcliff 6P By Seek Outside

Screen Shot 2023 11 09 at 1.59.39 PM

The Redcliff 6P is designed to be an Ultralight Hot Tent. Which can be run with Seek Outside’s line of Ultralight Titanium Wood Stoves. Weighing in at 5lbs 3ozs for the shelter, poles, and stakes, the Redcliff offers an impressive space to weight ratio. The addition of their Lightweight Titanium Wood Stove brings the weight to 8 lbs 12 oz. This means if you’re car camping or packing it into camp with friends, you can beat the late season elements and enjoy the warmth of a wood burning stove.

When the seasons warm and the bugs come out, Seek Outside offers many options to transform the Redcliff into the ultimate summer shelter. With options like their Nest systems, you can sleep up to 6 people in a shelter that packs to the size of a basketball. A Nest provides a completely enclosed pod that connects to the shelter. Giving you a bathtub floor and bug netting to protect you from anything that crawls, slithers, or buzzes. Setup on the Redcliff is extremely easy due to its single pole design. Simply stake out your 4 corners. Insert the single carbon fiber pole. Then stake out the rest of your shelter with the remaining 6 stakes.

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Unlike traditional dome shelters, the Redcliff boasts standing height in the middle of the shelter with a shelter height of 6 foot 10 inches. You can also use the Redcliff full nest as a stand-alone screen room for camping on clear summer nights. Or just a spot to get away from the bugs. Now, if the versatility hasn’t convinced you yet, let the Redcliff’s storm shedding capabilities impress you. Made out of a 30 denier high-tenacity ripstop Sil Nylon, the Redcliff can shed wind, rain and snow without a problem.

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Many of Seek Outside’s customers have faced winds upwards of 60-70 mph with little to no issues. When properly pitched, the Redcliff will take what Mother Nature has to throw at it. Overall, the Redcliff has become one of the most versatile shelters in Seek Outside’s line. You can backpack it into the backcountry in any season, with ample space for family or friends. With floored and floorless options, along with the ability to run a stove, the Redcliff is the ultimate do it all shelter.

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Seek Outside designs and manufactures all of their shelters in Grand Junction, Colorado. They started making tents in their basement in 2010. Because founder Kevin Timm thought there had to be a better solution to high mountain backpack elk hunting. Seek Outside build their shelters to have an excellent space to weight ratio. As well an excellent durability to weight ratio. 

redcliff 6p, overlanding, overland, off-roading, off-road, ultralight hot tent light tent, hot tent, camping, seek outside,

Seek Outside offers countless sizes of Ultralight Hot Tents with similar features to the Redcliff. From our 1 person Silex, t 16 person tipi, they have a size and variation to fit nearly every user. Check out their website for more info about the variety of shelters, lightweight backpacks, and ultra light titanium wood stoves.

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

The IBEX™ Panel Kit from Kuat

overlanding, off-roading, overland, off-road, kuat, ibex, ibex panel kit, gear, mount,

The IBEX™ Panel Kit from Kuat.

Increase the versatility of your IBEX™ with the addition of the IBEX™ Panel Kit.

The panels easily mount to your existing IBEX™ frame and help protect your gear and your gear’s gear from the elements. Plus, they’re fully locking, offering security while still allowing quick access to the bed when you need it. Designed for versatility, emphasizing performance and clean design, the IBEX Panel Kit stands in a league all of its own. All metal construction and weather resistant, the IBEX Panel Kit is built burly, ready for any adventure, and backed by Küat’s renowned No Worries Limited Warranty. 

kUAT Ibex panel, overlanding

That’s it. In a nutshell.

overlanding, off-roading, overland, off-road, kuat, ibex, ibex panel kit, gear, mount,
Features Include:

-All metal construction

-Weather resistant

-Locking system for added security

-Mounts directly to existing IBEX frame

-Third brake light for added visibility and safety 

-Access to crossbars for mounting to the top of IBEX

-Quick access to bed with gas-spring operated side and rear doors

-Initially available for the IBEXA1 SKU only, more coming later

MSRP: $1489 BUY HERE

To check out the Kuat Ibex TAP Trail Test CLICK HERE

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

Lowa Boots – Zephyr GTX Mid Trail Test

Lowa boots, zephyr gtx mid, hiking boots,

A good trail shoe or boot is an essential piece of gear when out adventuring in the backcountry. TAP was provided the Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid boot to test and here are our thoughts after a few months of use and abuse, at shows, on trails, around camp and hiking.

In-Field Conditions:

  • Trails hiked: 200+ miles
  • Some rock scrambling and general camping use in the desert and mountains
  • 500+ miles of working the pedals of the TAP Media Rig both on and off trail
  • Cold and wet to hot and dry conditions
  • Used with Superfeet Hike Support in-soles (I always replace OEM insoles of every shoe/boot I use)
Lowa, Zephyr GTX Mid, Tap TRAIL Tested, Trail shoes, Trail boots, hiking boots,

Pros:

  • Relatively light and definitely kept my feet warm in wet and cold conditions.
  • Gore-Tex works as described. Editors Note: This boot was used in very wet conditions at Overland Expo West and performed flawlessly.
  • Excellent traction on dry loose and uneven surfaces. Average traction in wet conditions.
  • Great ankle support and a firm hold of the foot when laced tightly.
  • After 7 months of use all seems and stitching has held up as expected. The lugged outsole has worn well.
  • Great looking tactical styling and design (Caveat..see comment below)

Cons:

  • Felt a little stiff straight out of the box and took a couple of weeks to get really comfortable.
  • Sizing slightly larger than expected. I use a 10.5 mens and these felt slightly big. This was overcome by inserting Superfeet in-soles and using thicker socks.
  • The light outsole color may not be for everyone however, the alternative colors of Reed and Beige/Brown are more in-line with a traditional hiking boot. ***Also please note, the in-field photos were taken in bright sunlight and make the shoe look a brighter blue than reality. Our test pair in person, reflect the correct color below.
  • Price $230
Lowa, Zephyr GTX Mid, Tap TRAIL Tested, Trail shoes, Trail boots, hiking boots,

Conclusions:

I’m giving these boots a 4 out of 5 star rating and can definitely recommend them. Overall, they are comfortable and performed to our expectations. At $230 they’re a premium price, however are well made and the obvious quality construction has stood up to our 7 months of use and abuse.

To Buy CLICK HERE

Camping Trailer – Build It Out Yourself!

off-roading, off-road, overlanding, overland, camping trailer, turtleback trailers, build it yourself, overlanding trailers,

My wife once told me that there is nothing wrong with owning two motorcycles – as long as they serve different functions.  That led to the purchase of a KLR650 in addition to my dirt bike.  I promptly pocketed this axiom of wisdom for the future.  Eventually, I decided to see if it would apply to trailers. 

Background

Most of our travel is done in our truck camper – a RAM 3500 Diesel equipped with a Norweld Aluminum Tray and a FourWheelCamper (FWC) Hawk Flatbed Camper.  It is our custom home on wheels and is equipped to take us just about anywhere we want to go.  The under bed and dinette seat storage in the flatbed camper are game changers. Even our dog has ample lounging room among the gear packed in the second seat of the cab.  For an average exploration trip, we lack little. In the event an extra box of firewood or bag of dog food is needed, we have somehow found room.     

But what if we are heading out on a trip that offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, motorcycle riding or simply an extended stay far from services – like our annual pilgrimage to remote beaches in Baja Mexico?  In this scenario, the truck camper by itself is usually not enough.  Let’s face it; even a few extra six packs of ice cold cerveza mandates a dedicated cooler!  A camping or overland trailer can be a good option if the benefits exceed the burden for you. 

We discovered the need for a camping trailer a decade ago.  At that time, all of our overlanding was done in a Toyota Tacoma equipped with a FWC Fleet slide-in camper.  It was reliable, lightweight and very capable.  But, it did lack storage – especially on longer trips where we bridged the cusps of two seasons.  We eventually tired of moving duffel bags of clothes and gear to free up a little more floor and counter space.  So, we built our first camping trailer.  We sure learned a lot along the way.  The intent of this article is to highlight some design features worth considering if you plan on adding a camping trailer to your own overland stable.     

Our first Baja Buggy started out as a semi-custom 4’x7’ heavy duty utility trailer with a 3500 pound rear axle.  It was just the right size to hold two motorcycles without hauling any unnecessary width or length.  It tucked behind our Tacoma/Fleet like a baby opossum to her mom.  Over the years, we modified the camping trailer to include a built-in loading ramp, overhead kayak supports, swing up cooking tables and multiple lock boxes.  We also extended the tongue length to 54” which is approximately two feet longer than most trailers. 

The extra ‘hitch to axle’ pivot length enabled me to back the trailer into the tightest of locations with relative ease.  This is an example of a simple design consideration that allowed us to ‘jack knife’ the trailer in tight situations without damaging the kayaks or the camper.  To further aid backing up on narrow roads, we also added break-away PVC extensions (with orange tips) on the rear of the trailer.      

Aside from the enhancements, we kept notes on a few obvious flaws that would continue to plague the Baja Buggy.  First, the solid axle design proved tougher than the contents.  On several occasions our motorcycles sprung free from their tie downs after hitting a big pothole or rock.  Other times, our kayaks were precariously hanging onto their supports.  The harsh ride and low axle clearance of the buggy prevented our truck from going into some off-the-beaten-path gems.  On washboard roads, our friends said it danced to the ‘jitter buggy’!  Second, storage was limited to three pickup-style aluminum bed boxes.  They worked fine for small items like shoes and helmets, and provided sufficient weatherproofing but security was suspect.  A hard pull on any of the lids could easily expose the contents. 

Consequently, the extra cooler and wood tote were either exposed and secured or left behind.  (I also did not want to tell my wife, who previously proclaimed ‘two can be better than one’ that she had to leave her paddleboard and beach recliner behind!)  Finally, with each modification the weight of the trailer and contents continued to climb.  So, after years of faithful service, we sold our Baja Buggy to a friend.  Although it had faithfully transported our motorcycles, kayaks and gear down the Baja Peninsula on more trips than it had lug nuts, the time had finally come to upgrade.  We began by tabulating some of our key learnings and criteria.   

Our Trailer Criteria
off-roading, off-road, overlanding, overland, camping trailer, turtleback trailers, build it yourself, overlanding trailers,

The operative word is ‘Our’.  There is an abundant number of overland oriented trailers available on the market.  Prices can range from $40K for expedition style trailers (with roof top tents, kitchens, power inverters, slides etc.) down to $10K cargo boxes with an independent suspension.  The choices reflect the many needs of the buyer and their tow vehicle.  For us, the most important criteria was that our new trailer had to complement our truck camper; not be redundant.  We wanted one plus one to equal three; not just two.  We did not need a trailer with a mattress or galley.  It did not need hundreds of watts of solar power or an inverter.  Anything more than a basic solar charging system would be too much. Keeping it simple and practical was our mantra.  Fewer components meant less to maintain or break over rough roads.  Ultimately, we identified the following criteria:

  • Off-road capable independent suspension with high clearance
  • A large and secure weatherproof storage box with two access doors
  • Ability to carry a dual-sport motorcycle and two kayaks
  • On-board auxiliary power and exterior lighting
  • Easy to hitch / unhitch and backup
  • Spare tire and gas can storage

Finally, the trailer quality had to be rock solid from a proven manufacturer.  Once we anchored on this criteria, the playing field was quickly narrowed.

Turtleback Trailers

Our first interaction with Turtleback Trailers (Chandler AZ) was in 2021 at the Overland Expo in Flagstaff Arizona.  Coming off of COVID restrictions, it was an out-of-cycle year-end event and the energy was engaging.  For the first time, Turtleback was showing their new Adventure trailer platform – an elongated and feature-rich version of their Expedition trailer.  It was loaded with options and immediately got the gears turning between my ears.  Thought:  An amalgamation of the longer platform combined with the storage box simplicity of their Getaway model could get us close to what we wanted.  After a few follow-up conversations with their engineering department, Turtleback agreed to build us a custom trailer.  (It turns out they were exploring several similar design options for future products so this was a win-win for both of us.)   

Nate and the team at Turtleback Trailers were easy to work with. Once we firmed up the feature set and made a deposit, the company placed our camping trailer in a relatively short build queue. During the early stages, we established checkpoints to validate the design.  For example, the engineers had to modify the frame structure (between the nose and rear box) to accommodate the motorcycle bay and associated load.  The following list identifies the feature set of our ‘Baja Turtle’.  .  

Trailer Features
  • Platform and Suspension:  Structural steel construction, corrosion protectant, independent swing arms  
  • Main Storage Box:  6’x4’x2’ (48 cubic feet), HD hinge locking lid with gas-shock lift assist  
  • Front Nose Box:  2’x4’x2’ (16 cubic feet), HD hinge and locking lid 
  • Access Doors:  Small passenger side and large rear; HD hinge and locking (for cooler / quick access)
  • Power and Lights:  12V AGM battery, 100W solar panel, charging plugs and exterior lights  
  • Motorcycle Bay:  3’x6’ which accommodates (1) mid-size motorcycle or two camp bikes. 
  • Rear Swing Arm:  Spare tire and (2) Rotopak fuel holders
  • Propane Holder:  Fender mount, passenger side; 5 lb bottle
  • Kayak Rack:  Tall configuration (to clear motorcycle), structural steel, powder coated
  • Kayak Holders:  Malone SeaWing saddle style (owner supplied)      
  • Tires:  BF Goodrich K02 33” 
  • Hitch:  Max Coupler

Note:  Again, it is important to keep in mind that individual requirements will vary.  A feature set that worked for us may be a non-starter for someone else.  

Turtleback trailer, overlanding, overland, off-roading, off-road, camping trailer,
Off-road Experience

Since taking possession of the trailer last year, we have used it a half-dozen times (albeit on one occasion it hauled firewood in a pinch).  In short, the performance exceeded our expectations.  Certainly a big difference from our old Baja Buggy days.  The gas-shock assist storage box lid is easy to lift and the inside storage is colossal.  A lot of gear can be packed into a total of 64 cubic feet! 

On a recent trip we loaded it with a large tent, chairs, cooking table, Yeti Cooler, Solo Stove, wood tote, paddleboard and extra water.  These were just the big items – all secure and weatherproof.  On the exterior, we tied down the motorcycle and affixed the aluminum motorcycle loading ramp to the back of the nose box.  With the relatively low rack profile, we can easily lift the kayaks onto their support saddles.  Spare fuel containers were added to the rear swing-out rack.

On the highway, the trailer tracked perfectly and was hardly noticeable behind the power of our diesel truck.  Off the road, and after airing down, we were able to glide over wash boards or heavily rutted roads.  Absent was the familiar trailer hop that can affect the handling of a tow vehicle.  This is where the trailer independent suspension and accompanying ground clearance really shined.  Potholes and rocks shrunk under the suspension keeping the motorcycle and kayaks intact.  Except for one very steep trough, that challenged the 3-axis articulation of the Max Coupler, the camping trailer went where the truck could go.

camping gear, turtleback trailer, overlanding, overland, off-roading, off-road, vehicle supported adventure, gear, overlanding gear,
Usage Notes

Aside from the incremental cargo capacity, there are a few other advantages of a camping trailer worth noting.  For example, we keep our trailer loaded and ready to roll year round (except for a few changes depending on destination).  Our auxiliary camping gear is all in one place.  Aside from checking water and on-board fuel levels we simply hitch up and go.  Once at a campsite, we often jack-knife the trailer to form a natural patio area outside our camper.  In inclement weather, the trailer can be oriented to serve as a welcomed wind break.  During meals, the trailer also becomes an integral part of meal preparation, serving or an impromptu party.  The large flat surfaces provide convenient access to portable grills, snacks and coolers.  Add an awning and you can quickly increase your shade or rain protection.  

Even the downsides of towing a camping trailer can be mitigated with a little creativity.  Case in point:  When we want to explore ‘trailer-free’ for a few days there are options.  We have found RV campgrounds that will let us park our trailer for several days for a nominal fee.  Combine this with laundry, water and WiFi and it quickly becomes a timely way-point.  Just be sure to add a hitch and/or wheel locks to deter theft.  If inside storage is desirable, ensure that the overall trailer height (including roof top tent or kayaks) will clear a standard garage door.  This will significantly increase your options.  

Ram, Four Wheel Campers, FWC, overlanding, overland, off-road, off-roading, camping trailers, vehicle supported adventure,
Areas for Improvement

Developing a custom camping trailer with CAD drawings, spec sheets and phone calls can be challenging but is a fairly common practice.  Even with experience in design and the best of efforts I soon found areas for improvement that I had not anticipated.  A few simple things that we would do differently include:

  • Move the axle forward by 10”, shifting the center of gravity, making the trailer easier to move by hand when loaded.
  • Increase the rack height by 2” to allow the motorcycle mirrors to more freely clear the bottom of the kayaks.
  • Section the nose box so that the battery, converter, controller etc. is isolated from other gear.          
Summary

Actively participating in the build-out of your own camping trailer can be very satisfying.  Besides meeting your specific needs, it will have your fingerprint on it.  The fine tuning is like an FM dial.  With just the right amount of knob twisting, the vision becomes clear.  You are then ready for the next adventure.

We are nearing spring in Central Oregon.  Snowfall is less frequent and warmer weather is tugging on us with magnetic forces.  Once again, our trailer is loaded to support a longer trip with fewer stops.  Maybe I will find inspiration to write another article while I enjoy a cold beer in a beach recliner.  My wife will not mind.  It will be my chair.  Like our RamHawk and camping trailer.  We get more than double the enjoyment.  One plus one can equal three.  I like this new math!     

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g2bio

Contributor Gary Matos: After spending decades in the high tech industry, Gary and Gretchen stepped out of work and into the outdoors. They reside in Sisters Oregon and when not splitting or stacking wood they enjoy backpacking, kayaking and motorcycle riding.  Over the years, they have owned several pop-up campers and have made over 30 trips to Bajaexico.  Their favorite western states for overlanding are Montana, Idaho and Utah.  They currently have a Ram 3500 equipped with a Four Wheel Hawk Flatbed camper which they custom built.

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