Keep your gear reliably dry and carry it comfortably on your back. The Big River Dry Backpack is a durable, and abrasion resistant option that uses a strong 420D nylon fabric. If your idea of outdoor recreation involves rugged water sports like kayaking, canoeing, rafting, or exploring some motorcycle touring, Big River products are the perfect storage bags to keep your gear dry.
Adjust the comfortable straps around your shoulders, sternum and waist to keep it in place. A white interior laminate affords greater visibility, and lash loops allow secure stacking or attachment to watercraft, motorcycles and other equipment. The hypalon non-wicking roll-top closure keeps water out, and the Field Repair Buckles can be replaced in seconds with just a Philips screwdriver. It was also designed with an oval base to save space when packing and prevent it from rolling away.
Features of Sea to Summit’s Big River Dry Backpack include:
Reliably Dry: Waterproof, roll-top closure secured with our patented Field Repair Buckles for a reliable seal and double-stitched, fully taped waterproof seam
Minimalist Carry: Streamlined and adjustable EVA foam pack harness with supportive sternum strap and removable 1.5″ / 38mm – webbing hipbelt holds pack firmly in place
Built Tough: Heavy-duty 420D Nylon fabric is super-strong, abrasion and puncture-resistant with a triple-coated oval base for increased water-shedding and durability
Grab + Lash: Strong and versatile grab-handle and daisy-chain for confident handling and lashing to kayaks, bikes, motorbikes and roofracks
See Inside: White interior TPU laminate reflects light to provide greater visibility of gear
PFC-free
If you’re looking for a similar product, just not in backpack form, check out the Big River Dry Bags varying in sizes 5L to 65L, available in a variety of colors.
Off Grid Trailersredefines camping with innovative off-road overland trailers designed to connect you with nature, inviting you to explore the wild with unparalleled adventure. Bringing backcountry camping into the mainstream, they build durable off-road camper trailers that can withstand any climate and any terrain. Off Grid Trailers offers 4 trailer models, all built to last with all-metal construction and world-class craftsmanship. The Pando is a traditional sleep-in teardrop trailer with a queen size bed and luxurious all-metal rear galley kitchen. The Expedition is a square drop camper trailer with an innovative drop-downside galley kitchen, a large amount of storage, and a queen-size bed. The Switchback is an adventure gear hauler that is designed to take your adventure anywhere with over 40 cubic feet of weather-proof storage and 2 galley configurations. The latest offering from Off Grid Trailers is the Sprocket, which is the world’s first all-metal fully modular off-road camping trailer.
Introducing the Sprocket, a new lightweight offroad trailer that makes the great outdoors even more accessible. The Sprocket has a modular design, which means you can start small and work your way up by adding more creature comforts and accessories to your rig over time.
The all-new Sprocket from Off Grid Trailers is a lighter-weight, more affordable camping trailer built on the popular Expedition chassis. This all-metal off-road capable camping trailer is built to last with the same quality craftsmanship and engineering you would find in the other Off Grid Trailer models. However, they have designed the trailer with modularity in mind, to make way for the after-market and passionate D.I.Y enthusiasts at an affordable entry price.
This lightweight sleep-in camping trailer is R10 insulated and has a queen-size polycarbonate honeycomb sleeping area and pass-through rear storage. The base model will come standard with no kitchen or onboard water, but they offer options for outfitting the trailer to your needs. Two optional roof racks have a static load rating of 1000 pounds. The standard Timbren 3500 HD Axle-less suspension is quite capable, but you can also upgrade to the OGT Evolution Series Suspension for 8 inches of wheel travel and an additional 4 inches of ground clearance.
As your adventures change and develop, you can purchase new accessories for the trailer at your own pace. When the kids require their own sleeping space, you can add a full-length roof rack to support a rooftop tent. When you decide to opt for more storage, you can install additional side boxes. If you choose to tackle tougher terrain, you can upgrade to the OGT Evolution Series Suspension.
Experience an Elevated Adventure with the Ironman 4×4 ATS Suspension (All Terrain Systems) Lift Kit built for Subaru and Toyota RAV4
Are you ready to take your Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Outback, Crosstrek, or Forester to new heights? Look no further than the Ironman 4×4 ATS Suspension Lift Kit, the complete suspension system that brings you improved ride quality without compromising safety and comfort.
One of the standout features of the Ironman 4×4 ATS Suspension Lift Kit is its ability to enhance ride stability and driving dynamics. Equipped with performance coils, this cutting-edge system delivers greater stability on the road, giving you a smoother and more controlled driving experience. Say goodbye to the bumps and dips that once disrupted your journey – now, you can enjoy improved ride quality wherever you go.
With a 2-inch lift, the Ironman 4×4 ATS Suspension Lift Kit provides you with the opportunity to fit larger tires. This upgrade opens the door to enhanced performance, especially when tackling challenging roads, trails, or inclement weather conditions. Experience improved traction and control, giving you the confidence to conquer any terrain that comes your way.
What sets the Ironman 4×4 ATS Suspension Lift Kit apart from the competition is its advanced ATS Extended Travel Shocks. Derived from Ironman 4×4’s renowned military-grade suspension technology, these shocks feature extended travel twin-tube gas struts. They are designed to handle the toughest conditions, ensuring optimal performance and durability on all your off-road adventures.
With increased ground clearance, courtesy of the Ironman 4×4 ATS suspension system, your Subaru or RAV4 becomes more off-road capable than ever before. Say goodbye to limitations and embrace the freedom to explore challenging trails with ease. Whether you’re navigating rocky paths or crossing streams, you can rely on your lifted Subaru or RAV4 to take you to places you’ve only dreamed of.
Safety is paramount, and the Ironman 4×4 ATS Suspension Lift Kit provides you with peace of mind. Enjoy better visibility on the road, thanks to the increased ground clearance. This feature allows you to spot potential obstacles in advance, preventing damage to your vehicle, both on and off-road. Feel confident knowing that your everyday driving experience is safer and more secure.
Ironman4x4 stands behind the quality and performance of their products. That’s why the ATS Suspension Lift Kit comes with a 4-year/unlimited mile warranty. They want you to experience the elevated adventure that Ironman 4×4 offers, without any worries or concerns. Drive with confidence, knowing that you are backed by a comprehensive warranty that ensures your satisfaction.
Elevate your adventure with the All Terrain Systems (ATS) Suspension Lift Kit. Unlock the full potential of your Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Outback, Crosstrek, or Forester. Transform your ordinary commute into an extraordinary journey and explore the world around you like never before. Get ready to embark on your next adventure, elevated to new heights.
“Safety, comfort and performance—it’s a well-rounded package that is really quite impressive.”
Nate Tennis Rally Driver and Lead Instructor DirtFish Rally School
TruckHouse®, an emerging standout in the turn-key expedition vehicle industry, is proud to unveil their latest 4×4 camper, the BCR. The BCR is being developed in collaboration with Missoula-based, American Expedition Vehicles® (AEV®) – the gold standard in OEM-quality expedition parts and vehicles. This innovative vehicle redefines the boundaries of ingenuity, performance, and design in a perfectly integrated package.TruckHouse launched its first camper in 2021, the BCT, a revolutionary mid-sized expedition vehicle utilizing a carbon fiber house on a highly modified Toyota Tacoma. The BCT generated an extraordinary response, and the limited-production model sold out in short order. When looking for its next platform, TruckHouse was drawn to the Prospector® XL because of its impressive rough terrain aptitude and proven durability. Dropping a TruckHouse camper onto AEV’s PXL began as a mere thought experiment, but with the two companies equally passionate about quality and design, a natural synergy began to form. Those initial conversations evolved into a design collaboration, with AEV’s design team lending their styling expertise to the house exterior.
“I was initially impressed with TruckHouse’s extremely high build quality, strong work ethic, and logical approach. After talking through what they wanted to build next, we naturally saw an opportunity to collaborate, not only by supplying the AEV Prospector XL chassis, but working together we were able to design the BCR’s external surface to perfectly compliment the refined ruggedness of the PXL” says Dave Harriton, CEO and Founder of AEV.
By integrating the house with the PXL, the BCR provides an unparalleled level of luxury and livability while maintaining its renowned reputation of reliability and off-road prowess. The BCR boasts a fully redesigned vacuum infused monocoque house that is mated to the truck chassis via a first of its kind carbon fiber reinforced torsion free mounting system. The BCR blends striking aesthetic design with state-of-the-art composite manufacturing processes.
“It is about getting our customers further, further down the trail, further from others, and further from the monotony of daily life. The self-contained nature of the BCR allows our customer to travel with confidence even when there is no destination, timeframe, or itinerary,” says TruckHouse CEO and co-founder, Matt Linder.
“People are inspired by the vision that expedition vehicles can be built to the same quality and longevity standard as yachts and airplanes – we saw that with the tremendous success of the BCT,” says Linder. “The BCR is our continued demonstration of that vision, and we are honored to collaborate with AEV to incorporate cutting-edge automotive design.”
The BCR utilizes new HiPR FoilsTM to significantly improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics. The HiPR Foils (High Pressure Reduction, “Hyper”) reduce the naturally occurring high pressure in front of the cabover by redirecting and controlling drag induced vortices down the side of the camper. “The system is similar to air curtains used on most modern vehicles to control air around the front wheels, in this case, we can control the air spilling off the sides of the cabover” states Harriton. The patent pending feature increases drivability and fuel economy.
“We’re proud of our team’s dedication to creating an even better vehicle that provides an unmatched experience for our customers and scalability for our business,” says TruckHouse COO and co-founder, Nico Monforte. “Allowing our unrivaled passion for design, manufacturing, and love for the outdoors lead the way, we are thrilled to continue to push the limits.”
TruckHouse’s BCR is the latest continuation of their line of off-grid, 4-season expedition vehicles. The company is well-known for their extraordinarily high-quality yet durable builds that can withstand whatever their owners put them through. TruckHouse’s commitment to pushing the envelope and delivering top-notch products is ever present in the BCR.
The House:
Each BCR delivers an exceptional array of features that leave a lasting impression. At its core, a single-piece carbon fiber shell crafted using the vacuum infusion process, accompanied by the innovative HiPR foils, sets the foundation for excellence. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by an open floor plan that creates an inviting sense of spaciousness, enhanced by 270 degrees of windows enveloping the U-shaped dinette at the rear and an impressive interior standing height of 6’6″. The sleek flush-mounted dual-pane safari windows not only improve the aesthetics with their frameless design but also provide practical advantages by eliminating cold bridging and preventing water intrusion. To power the house systems, a robust lithium battery bank takes the stage, seamlessly managed through a user-friendly solid-state digital switching platform. The BCR embraces the newest technology and is Starlink Mobility compatible. Whether spending the night in a remote camp spot or cruising down the interstate, users can stay connected to the Starlink network, enabling them to work remotely and enjoy the comforts of a fully equipped office on the go. The galley is thoughtfully equipped with modern conveniences, including an induction cooktop, a versatile convection oven/microwave, a spacious sink, and a marine 2-drawer fridge/freezer. With ample space to comfortably accommodate four adults, the BCR also offers additional options such as a pass-through to the truck’s cab and a choice of three toilet systems: cassette, dry flush, or composting. The BCR model ensures that every aspect of your journey is met with opulence, ease, and functionality.
The Truck:
The AEV Prospector XL, respected as the heavyweight of the overland industry, has earned its reputation for good reason. Starting as a 60” cab to axle RAM 3500 with high payload and towing capacity, this truck undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis at the skilled hands of the AEV team. Enhanced with formidable features like 40″ tires, a robust stamped steel front bumper equipped with up to a 20,000 lbs. winch, a capable 3″ dual sport RT suspension system, and rugged Highmark® fender flares, the PXL achieves unrivaled off-road capability while retaining the hardworking lineage of the RAM. To further tailor the experience, customers can choose between the Cumminsor Hemipower plants, all while benefiting from a remarkable fuel capacity of up to 74 gallons. Whether opting for the regular or crew cab configuration, the Prospector XL ensures an unrivaled overlanding experience without compromising the RAM’s renowned capability.
Reserve Yours:
The BCR is now available for pre-order with a $10,000 refundable deposit; the first customer units are slated to hit the road in spring of 2024. Prospective customers can secure their production spot for their BCR now to ensure they are one of the first to experience this groundbreaking product in a booming market segment.
The TruckHouse® BCR is here, showcasing a new ground-up design with more capacity and an even higher level of refinement
Designed in collaboration with esteemed vehicle builder, American Expedition Vehicles® (AEV®)
Aerospace-grade carbon fiber monocoque shell
Patent pending HiPR FoilTM aerodynamic system
Based on an AEV Prospector® XL RAM 3500 cab-chassis
Expedition Superstore is a vehicle-based, outdoor exploration specialist. It is obsessed with helping adventurers get all the essential gear they need to travel unfamiliar territories, including building custom overlanding vehicles to support their self-sufficient, remote, and off-road explorations …. the adventure is the journey, and the journey is the purpose.
Expedition Superstore evolved from a deep love of the outdoors, a passion for exploring new places and an enthusiasm for customizing vehicles to be durable and capable of reaching the end of the trail and beyond. It was established as the archetype in the creation of a network of stores to display and stock the best brands that come with pedigree and reputation in the overland market. They want to provide the customer with expert information and advice and help them make the best choice based on their individual needs. Each store has a diverse mix of products able to outfit and build an overland rig from end to end, top to bottom.
Justin Dowey is the founder and owner of Expedition Superstore, and his Australian roots heavily influence the business. He sees that although the internet and social media are the primary sources of product information these days, it seems customers struggle to find accurate, professional and objective advice based on individual needs. This results in people making decisions based solely on flashy advertising and often ending up with a product that may not be the best fit. The feedback is that people still like and want to touch and feel merchandise, and they benefit from talking to trained professionals, especially when considering making a substantial and valuable product purchase.
Each Expedition Superstore will keep and display all manner of overland gear and equipment such as recovery gear, roof top tents, awnings, and roof racks. There is a vast range of storage solutions, camp kitchen gear, shower, cleaning options and bathroom essentials. 12V electrical is important with charging systems, fridges, wiring, off-road lighting, brake controllers and GPS units. Then there’s build components like bumpers, sliders, fenders, underbody protection, brake upgrades and suspension options and it also stocks a variety of camper choices. All of which the Expedition Superstore technicians can advise, supply, and install for you.
Justin Dowey – “We want to find store owners who have a love of overlanding, who want to deliver a first-class customer experience and provide them with a systematic solution to do that. Based on a comparable market size in Australia there is no reason why there couldn’t be at least one or more stores per state population dependent. Obviously, there are some financial qualifications, but more so, it’s the desire to provide an industry leading service level and store presentation that’s second only to another Expedition Superstore. We are here to help build that and together, set the standard for what an overlanding store should be”.
The spirit of overlanding is all about vehicle-based travel. For many of us, this entails equipping our rigs for maximum enjoyment at camp. This often includes many of the creature comforts of home but packed into smart mobile solutions. Up until recently, this has largely been my experience and personal preference.
However, I’ve recently “unlocked” an entirely new set of experiences that have come from venturing away from my vehicle. I will share some examples along with a few gear recommendations for how I have made this transition a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
My first example comes from an overlanding trip I took through Death Valley, CA. On this trip, I was fortunate enough to come across one of the many historical cabins located in this region. These cabins are free to camp in and are available to travelers on a first come, first serve basis. That’s right. If you find an unoccupied cabin, post-up and spend the night in a little bit of history! With the right light weight gear, you can seamlessly take advantage of lodging situations like these or other unique opportunities to spend the night in structures that you may find in your travels. Note: In the spirit of the old west, always leave it better than you found it!
My next example is the all too common “road’s end” scenario. On another recent trip, I found myself at a point where the vehicle could go no further. I was underwhelmed with the setting but did not feel like turning around, so I grabbed my pack with a few pieces of my light weight gear and hit the trail on foot. In a very short distance, I found a beautiful creek with a sandy beach. Within a few minutes, I was able to set-up a campsite and spent the night under the stars listening to a beautiful creek.
Both of these experiences were made possible by keeping a few pieces of light weight gear in my rig along with a reasonably sized backpack for carrying my gear. While I may add other miscellaneous items, the following are in my core “mobile kit.”
Chair
Small table
Sleeping pad or cot
Tent/tarp (optional)
Sleeping bag/quilt
For the first three items, I use Helinox gear. Helinox has been in business for almost 15 years and produces attractive, easy assembly, compact and ultra-lightweight gear. I find these features to be an excellent fit within my overland rig. I easily store these items in my cargo bins or in nooks and crannies. These same benefits translate to the trail and my Helinox gear easily fits inside a daypack with plenty of room for other stuff.
Details:
Chair Zero– This is one of the lightest and smallest backpacking chairs on the market. It weighs only 17 oz and packed, is smaller than an average person’s forearm at 13.5 inches in length. This chair is one of the easiest chairs on the market to assemble and takes me less than a minute to take a seat. If you are looking for a slightly larger chair and level-up on comfort, I’d recommend the high back version.
Table One – Again, super small and lightweight at only 1 lb 8 oz and packed, only 16 inches in length. I especially appreciate the engineering that went into this design and is one of my favorite pieces. It is easy to assemble, has cup holders and enough space to eat off while sitting in Chair Zero. Keep in mind that this table is small and low. If you’re looking for a larger/taller dinner table, this might not be the product for you. But otherwise, say goodbye to putting your stuff on the ground!
Lite Cot – Is a full size, ultra-light cot that only weighs 2lbs 12oz and packed, only 20.5 inches in length. At first glance, the cot’s sleek design gives the perception that it would not be comfortable or durable. In reality, my experience has been quite the opposite. It “feels” large, and the fabric tension is fantastically comfortable. Shoot, even my dog prefers to lay on the cot vs. her normal travel mat. As for durability, I have been rough on mine, and it has withstood the tests without a glitch. My concern with this cot is the assembly process. It takes some strength to snap the pieces in place and if you are not careful, you can pinch the skin on your hand.
Regardless of the equipment you choose, I encourage you to branch out and modify your overlanding experiences.
In-Field Contributor: Chris Lenkeit – 2021 JLU Rubicon
Every overlander/car camper has a philosophy. Mine was to build my vehicle with a minimalist mindset. While my rig is designed for cabin sleeping with all the necessities, I never travel in excess of GVWR. This enables safe travel for me, my vehicle, those around me and finally the places I visit.
