In the first of our new “Behind the Wheel” series we sit down with Mason Schreck the owner of Pacific Overlander and chat about his rapidly growing Overland Adventure Vehicle Rental company.
So Mason, when and why did you start Pacific Overlander? The American West is one of the best places on earth for outdoor adventure travel and overlanding, with its huge tracts of land open to the public and iconic National Parks. And in 2016, at Pacific Overlander’s founding, there was no easy way to visit these places with the kind of comfort and safety a capable vehicle with all of the needed equipment can provide. With years of surf travel under my belt in places like Chile, Central America, and Africa, where 4-wheel drive vehicles were widely available for rent, I realized there were no good options for people like me to have the type of experience I was enjoying abroad in my own back yard. Pacific Overlander came out of a desire to make authentic outdoor and overland experiences more accessible for both visitors and locals, as well as to reawaken the spirit of adventure within the classic American road trip.
Rigs are all important from a safety and capability point of view but also frankly for brand aesthetics, so give us some insight into what people can expect when they rent from Pacific Overlander? Our minimum requirement for all of our fleet vehicle builds is that they be able to safely and comfortably travel on dirt roads and in remote locations. We upgrade the suspension on 4Runner TRD Offroad and Tacoma TRD Offroad model vehicles to accommodate increased clearance and load bearing capability, while our Jeep builds are stock Rubicon trim, which are completely adequate. We use Toyo ATIII tires on all vehicles, as we have found them to outperform other similar all-terrain tires in every category. Depending on model, dual battery or lithium systems are employed to insure ample power supply for accessories, as well as the ability to start the vehicle should a battery fail.
In addition to the rig, what is provided as standard? All rentals include 150 free miles per day and all of the needed camping equipment (roof top tent, fridge/freezer, stove/propane, table/chairs, and all of the needed cooking and plating wares). Additional equipment includes bed sets, satellite communication devices, air-compressors, self recovery equipment like Maxtrax, and sporting equipment like Oru Kayaks.
Is your audience mainly local, from all over the US or International? Our customers are both local and domestic, as well as from all over the world. Some are returning to camping for the first time since childhood and others are seasoned overland travelers. Our product is very accessible and easy to use, so anyone can get in, drive off, and have a wonderful weekend in the woods. They are also well outfitted and capable, so for those who need very specific support for a backcountry trip, we are also an excellent resource.
So give us some insight into the process of renting from Pacific Overlander? All rentals can be reserved through our website or by contacting us directly. With depots in San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Las Angeles (Spring 2021), all within 15 minutes of their international airports, we are conveniently located for fly-and-drive travel. All clients receive a thorough orientation on the vehicle and equipment upon pick-up and prior to arrival are provided with curated digital maps to be used on their trips with dispersed campsites, trails, and points-of-attraction noted. And for those who would like to experience overland travel within the context of a guided tour, we offer trips to iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, and Baja California.
Like any business, I’m sure you’ve had some challenges (apart from Covid of course). Anything that springs to mind? Maintaining the highest level of customer service has always been our top priority, and though rare, this has on occasion meant replacing a vehicle that has encountered a mechanical issue in the field. We make every effort to ensure that our client’s vacations can continue with minimal interruption should an issue arise. Our 24/7 support is just that, and our clients always come first, regardless of fault.
Any funny rental stories? Once we received a call from the US Military inquiring about a client who had inadvertently entered a government base while traveling in the backcountry. So for anyone looking to dabble in espionage, we may offer an ideal reconnaissance vehicle, if it were not for the branding.
Well, 2020 has been a year to remember and I think we all deserve something special for the Holidays this year! Here are a few gift ideas for the Overlander in your life, or maybe simply to cheer yourself up. Enjoy!
The Field 2.0 was designed by Toor Knives with every day use in mind and has quickly become known as the workhorse of their Outdoor Series. Its small size allows for all day carry comfort, while having the capability to handle almost any task out on the trail.
The edge features a 2.75” straight for fine work, and a razor sharp 1.75” radius to the tip for traditional blade work. Its KG Gunkote finish provides excellent abrasion, chemical and impact resistance, and the blade shape allows for much more steel mass behind the edge, which translates to a longer sharpening life and edge impact resistance. A perfect 90-degree spine, from the tip all the way to the thumb jimping, provides more surface area for hammering and ferro rod sparking.
Additionally, every handle is lined with a polished copper accent and Toor’s proprietary Dynamic Fluting™ texture, providing smooth ergonomics in the hand, as well as grip when operating in wet environments. This design forces proper grip mechanics and concentrates all the pressure onto the apex of the blade edge, conquering the age-old task of offering both comfort AND grip. With a precision cut ¼” radius on each flute, and spiral rifling from end to end, each groove flows perfectly with the hand’s natural positioning.
Every Field 2.0 is Made in the USA and includes a genuine Hermann Oak saddle leather sheath. **** TAP has been using this knife in the field for 3 months and can recommend the quality and build.
Description: Campfire Trio has everything you need to elevate your campfire cooking experience. Portable, durable, and lightweight, it has a grill, portable fire pit, and ferro rod fire starter all in one kit. Get 25% off until Dec. 7th.
The Campfire Trio – Grill + Fire Safe + Fire Set $179.00 BUY HERE
The MagMount G3 is a trail proven solution for mounting phones in virtually any vehicle. Designed and made in the USA, these device holders are made from durable black nylon, aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel hardware. The magnet array on the mount has been tested over thousands of miles of trails during the summer of 2020 to hold your phone in place. The new holder is also compatible with Pitaka MagEZ iPhone cases and is MagSafe from Apple®. The purchase of a mount includes a 20mm metal ball to attach to a 67 Designs Carbon Fiber Series™ Arm (sold separately) and a steel plate to attach to your phone and other devices. Contact: customerservice@67d.com**** TAP has 67Designs gear in both our rigs and can recommend the quality and performance of their gear
The Pangolin Tool Rollby STEP 22 Gear is the perfect combination of a tool roll, tool pouches, wrench roll, and tool bag all in one product. This innovative and modular design is a great solution to help keep your tools organized for overlanding and adventure travel. The attached storage bag converts into a handy temporary storage garage during use, so you never lose a tool on the trail. Best in class materials prove that this tool roll is built to last! info@step22gear.com**** We’ve been using this tool roll for 2 months and love it!
The Vaquero Chair by CHAMA is a durable & lightweight design masterpiece. We set out to design and build an outdoor chair whose utility was relaxing, lounging, taking a load off. We needed this chair to be lightweight, durable, functional, easy to carry, and we wanted to incorporate wood and canvas. Paying homage to the historic campaign chairs of the early 1900s, we built the Vaquero Chair – an iconic piece for a life of rugged luxury. CHAMA’s Vaquero chair is a wildly comfortable, folding, easy-to- travel with chair that will make a statement on the trail or in the home office. This chair will become the favorite of everyone – from Marfa to Palm Springs, through Yellowstone to the Southeast Coast, and everywhere in-between.
Two blankets in time for winter – Both are iIdeally sized to be used as a 1-2 person duvet in RTT’s, camper trailers and RV’s. Stows perfectly where space saving is critical. The canvas blanket has dual layer construction, a water-resistant canvas outer shell and a soft cotton flannel lining. The luxurious duck down blanket features a light weight super strong 20D nylon rip stop outer shell, breathes naturally preventing a clammy and uncomfortable sleep and is insulated with 80% responsibly sourced duck down.
Designed to easily fit over the top of your spare wheel with a no fuss, easy to secure adjustable harness system allowing for quick removal, easy cleaning and access to the spare wheel. Manufactured using hard wearing 400gsm Poly/Cotton Canvas and lined with a 450gsm PVC ensuring strength and reliability. An internal zipped dry pocket will keep items separated from mud and grime. Adjustable, anti-sag webbing straps keeps the bag from drooping. Suited to fit any 32’’, 33’’ and 35’’ tires.
The 23 Zero Overland gear box™ is the go-to solution to keep your overlanding, camping and recovery gear safe from the elements. A dust and waterproof seal adds a high level of protection. Made from a durable LDPE shell and features steel handles, lockable latches, pre-installed gas struts and rivet nuts in lid and a drain plug. With 6 sizes to choose from, some even have wheels – there’s an Overland Gear Box to suit your needs.
Lasso’s Socks 2.0 is the evolution of what a sock can do. Designed to help with performance, prevention, and recovery, Lasso offers SmartSupport joint and tendon stabilization, graduated compression, and superior moisture wicking. Proudly made in the USA, each pair of lasso socks are crafted to improve your sport, hike, climb, walk, bike, run or any adventure you seek. Stay Moving! **** TAP has been using Lasso socks for over 6 months and can attest to their quality and performance. Use: LASSOTAP20 for 20% off
MSRP $50 2-Pack or $90 4-Pack BUY HERE(Use LASSOTAP20 for 20% off)
The BruTrek™ Cargo Can is perfect for pre-measured servings of coffee, tea or protein powder – enough for a day or weekend of adventures. Also ideal for preserving herbs, spices or any other goods that are oxygen, humidity & light sensitive. Features writable top lid and magnetic bottom.
Raising Your 4WD Vehicle Off-Road & In-Field Tire Repair
If you are a vehicle-supported adventurer, this InfoBook was written for you. While off-roading or overlanding, you will at some point need to raise your vehicle for one or more of the following reasons:• Change to your spare tire• Repair a tire – plug a puncture, re-seat a bead, or conduct a major tire repair• Place a bridging ladder or traction mat under a tire• Repair a suspension, steering, driveline, or other underbody component• Elevate the vehicle’s frame or axle assembly off a rock, log, or ridge when high-centered• Elevate a small vehicle to move it laterally on a trail• Rotate your tires in the backcountry on a long overland journeyWhen off-roading or overlanding on soft and uneven challenging terrain, raising a heavy 4WD vehicle that has a suspension lift and larger tires can be very risky. Truth is, it can be downright dangerous. There are lethal forces at work when lifting a heavy vehicle on any off-road terrain. Read this book and learn how to raise your vehicle correctly with the right jacks, tools, and accessories.This InfoBook also covers the topic of in-field tire repair. Whether you are a seasoned off-roader or new to vehicle-supported adventures, your chances of having a tire problem in the remote backcountry are good. It’s not a matter of if you will have tire problems off road, but when. Read this book and prepare for the day you damage more than one tire in the backcountry. **** TAP’s Editor using the Hi-lift on the front cover 🙂
Our mission has evolved over the years, but our founding principle has remained constant; to create the most authentic, restored Land Rover Defenders in the world. Defenders that are as influential and inspirational as our clients.
$180,000 – BUY HERE(Go on treat yourself, it’s been a stressful year!)
A Death Valley Overland Adventure: When the text came in from Todd Rogers at Four Points Adventures asking whether I’d like to join him on a guided astro photography trip though Death Valley, I didn’t have to think twice. With Covid dominating our lives this year, I’ve spent way too much time behind the desk and not enough time off-roading on the trails! The plan was to meet him and his guests at Big Pine, CA on Friday morning and spend the next 2 days exploring and shooting Death Valley. With a 5 hour drive to Big pine and a 10 am meet time, it made sense to leave the prior day and camp at Alabama Hills. The scenery in this area is spectacular and always a great place to capture the stars above the Sierra mountains.
A room with a winter’s view of the Milky Way over the Sierra, CA
After meeting Todd and the group, we set off via Big Pine Road to enter the park at the northern end. Heading up and over Joshua Flats we eventually left the pavement and headed out off-road on dirt to our first night’s camp at Eureka Dunes. The dunes have multiple primitive camp areas (with one pit toilet) and we scored a great spot with fantastic views of the valley and the dunes. The main purpose of this Vehicle Supported Adventure trip was to teach a beginners guide to night photography and Todds guests were eager to get started. With Adventure photography you never know what nature will provide and luckily we were rewarded with an incredible sunset and fairly clear and moonless dark skies.
Todd from Four Points beginning his photography lesson
Perfect camping conditions
A winter’s Milky Way over the Eureka Dunes
The plan was to spend our 2nd night at the southern end of Racetrack Valley, just east of Lippencott Road Trailhead. It’s good to note that distances on the map are deceiving and never seem to do justice to the actual time it takes to get anywhere. Our day was no exception and we spent 4 hours in the saddle on the slow, very dusty and often grinding washboard roads. As always though, there’s lots to see in the Valley of Death.
The Ubehebe Crater is a large volcanic crater of the Ubehebe Craters volcanic field in the northern half of Death Valley and was our first stop. Although a tourist area, it’s worth pulling over and taking the shot. If you’re brave and have time, hike down to the bottom to get a real sense of the size of the crater.
A very impressive hole in the ground
After heading south away from the crater, we entered the infamous 29 mile washboard Racetrack Valley Road. Although not technical, it clearly states that high clearance 4×4 vehicles are recommended. This trail famously shakes rigs apart (we’ve lost hi-lifts and lights before!) and it was truly impressive to see mini vans and BMW’s attempting to win the Darwin Award of the day!
Eventually along this rough road you reach Teakettle Junctionwhere you can either head east towards Lost Burro Mine and climb 7168 ft over Hunter Mountain, or continue south towards Racetrack Playa. The origin of the name of TeaKettle Junction is unknown, but it has become a tradition for backcountry travelers to attach teakettles with written messages. I’d been saving an old kettle for a couple of years, so it was fun to add our TAP version to the collection. Hopefully the rangers don’t remove them too quickly as ours is full of stickers and patches. Enjoy!
Check out the goodies inside of our TAP kettle.
The Moving Rocks of the Racetrack Playa are an interesting phenomenon. Our group had a passionate discussion on the recent scientific explanation of this occurrence, compared to a belief it is because of aliens or maybe magic! I’ll let you make up your own mind on this one.
Aliens, magic or science….you decide!
Note: Please do not walk on this Death Valley Playa after rains as footprints take forever to disappear. Also, there are instances where the magical rocks have been removed. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!
Three days exploring the desert was certainly a needed break from my Covid Desk and thanks again to Todd at Four Points Adventures for inviting me along on the trip.
Circling our wagon’s as we explore a mining area
Todd explains the finer points of life in the Valley of Death
A photo essay by Adventure Photographer, Andy Best
It’s three o’clock in the morning. My pillow is frozen to the side of the camper. Moonlight pours through the vent above the bed, spilling across the blankets half covering a shivering little body. Slow puffs of frozen breath stretch like small clouds above our heads. “Damn it, the propane is out…”, I think to myself. A slow rumbling sound turns to slow heaves from the floor below. Our pup Sequoia is obviously sick and is about to explode. In two moves I blast out of bed and practically cartwheel across our small table and on top of the dog. I moved shoes and her bed just in time for her to dispatch last nights dinner and a small helping of sticks she decided to gobble up. There was just enough room in the corner in-between her bed and the door for the warm goo, now slowly freezing. Shivering now I take a small towel and clean up the mess, wrap Sequoia in a blanket, tuck in the family, and throw on my clothes to begin a long night of troubleshooting our heating situation.
Stepping out of the camper into the full moon light, the rocks and dirt fuzed together like cement. My nose hairs instantly freeze. It instantly reminded me of being a kid running around blowing bubbles in zero degree temps, watching the globe grow then slowly freeze and shatter like glass. Sprinkling like glitter all the way to the ground. I often drift into past memories during stressful times like these. It helps me cope with the situation at hand, taking me back to simpler less stressful times. My headlamp fires up illuminating two propane tanks and with a couple knocks and a sigh of relief I’m glad to learn that it is the propane. After switching the tanks and crawling back into the camper, I notice in my absence, Sequoia had to relieve herself once more. However, this time in my daughter’s shoe. I toss the little shoes out the door, “I’ll take care of that tomorrow”, I mumble. A quick flip of the switch and the furnace fires. The heat rushes through the camper thawing everything in an instance. Too wound up to sleep I snag my phone from under my half frozen pillow and start to work early into the morning. This is real life on the road…
Why would anyone subject themselves to the constant unknown? Or decide to permanently reside in what is essentially a box sitting on the back of a truck? And with two children, a wife, and 65 lb. dog? Someone that is ready to be incredibly uncomfortable, that’s who. Oh, but it’s worth it. Let me explain.
My philosophy about life is quite miss understood, but the freedom and value of experiences is what I seek. I’m addicted to the wonder that awaits me out here. I yearn for those crisp cool mornings in the mountains where only the warmth of the sunrise can heat the soul. As the scent of fresh pine pours through the windows of the camper. All while taking in the delicate sounds of little morning birds leaving a smile on my face that lasts the whole day. Meanwhile an unfolded map lay out on the picnic table, a notebook propped open right next to it with a blank page displayed. The day has yet to be planned and just like that the adventure starts.
I feel that living this way is closer to the way humans used to live, nomadic. Discovering the way one day at a time. I’ve chosen this way, for now, to give myself and my family a different way to look at the world. To exist outside the snow globe, as I like to describe. One might feel like a ghost walking amongst the living watching others hustle and bustle in a herd getting from one timed function to another. As stoplights control the flow of humans building up like water behind a dam, the light goes green and the dam breaks. The human mass spill over and into the nearby stores in clusters. It’s a beating heart of everything the same, and one that I don’t feel I fit in with.
Traveling with children is not glamorous. It is difficult! Once again however, real life on the road is worth it. To expand their vocabulary and desires by way of exploration and experience. I’m lucky, as a photographer and filmmaker, that my work takes me all over the world. With this freedom comes the ability to bring my family when the project allows. This saves me massive amounts of time away from my children. I’m a huge part of my two daughters and my wife’s lives, for that and this lifestyle I am grateful.
Yes, but Andy! Can’t you achieve this and live in a permanent home? I mean, what does living a mobile lifestyle actually achieve for you if it’s so tough?! To that I say a few things. First, anything in life that is worth pursuing requires a gigantic amount of work. Secondly, to exist in one place to study my surroundings (ie: light, angles, less known locations) and to truly experience it’s wonder, shows through in my stories and my imagery. And most important, to be able to share all these places and make unbelievable memories with my family is beyond irreplaceable.
To sum this journey up so far is pretty easy, life on the road is extremely difficult, it’s a ton of work, but to quote one of my favorites, Michelangelo, “The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it’s too low and we reach it.” Therefore to go against the grain of the expected and pursue a lifelong dream in the arts as a nomadic photographer / filmmaker, all the while creating unforgettable memories with my family, has been both one of hardest yet rewarding endeavors of my life.
This is an initial look at the Primus Tupike stove after having tested it for 4 days in Death Valley this month. Right out of the box this is a beautiful piece of gear and in some ways it almost seems too nice to beat up on the trail. Our initial impression is that this two burner camp stove has a great design aesthetic and is solidly built, giving the impression it will last. Obviously time will tell and we’ll give a longer term (6 month) update in 2021. In general, a camp stove will last us approximately a year before failure, so we have high hopes for this one.
Pros:
Light weight and slim build
Burners are powerful and heat up liquid and food quickly
Solidly built and great design aesthetic
Built in ignition
Easy to clean design
Doesn’t rattle
Cons:
Side wind screens need to be bigger for windy conditions
Price
A this price it should come with carrying case as standard
Cooks fast and hot, so food has to be watched (notable, but not necessarily a con)
FEATURES
Dual burners allow you to cook multiple pots at different temperatures
Piezo ignition, no lighter required
The lid and side windscreens ensure steady heat for cooking, even in windy conditions
A stainless-steel body, oak laths and brass details provide extra strength and ages beautifully
Designed to be carried, the wood-trimmed handle locks the stove closed
Removable pot support and drip tray for easy cleaning
Included non-stick griddle plate grills, toasts, melts cheese, and is easy to clean
Invented in Sweden, made in Europe
Gas NOT included
SPECS
weight: 9.5lb | dimensions: 18.7” x 11.6” x 3.2” | output: 10,200 BTU; 3000W (x2) | feeds: 1-10
DESCRIPTION
This elegant Swedish design-inspired, 2 burner stove is the choice of aspiring chefs who enjoy practicing their trade in the great outdoors. This gas stove has the capacity to cook five-star meals, but is light and compact to easily take anywhere.
The foldable legs provide valuable additional table space while cooking, or opt for the lower ultra-stable option. Easily fire up either burner with the push button Piezo igniter. Each burner runs independently, allowing outdoor chefs to cook multiple pots at a wide range of temperatures, keeping the sauce slowly simmering and the water at a rolling boil from the 10,200 BTU (3000W) flame.In windy conditions, the lid and side windscreens ensure steady cooking.
The sleek stainless steel body, die-cast aluminum sides, oak laths and brass details upgrade the look of any campsite, and will hold up to many years of use. The internal pot supports and drip tray are removable for easy cleaning. When storing, simply lock closed – this slim-profile stove can be stashed almost anywhere.
Comes with a non-stick griddle plate that grills, toasts, melts cheese, then can easily be cleaned.
Also available, the Primus Tupike StoveKit with a custom carry case that holds the stove, the gas, and all the accessories needed to prepare a gourmet meal.
Four Wheel Campers & New Belgium Brewery Hit The Road
A five episode web series devoted to capturing the Pop Up Life experience through the lens of a collective of unique individuals – climbers, snowboarders, skateboarders, and musicians living life on their own terms.
The caravan of American Off-Road Vehicles, equipped with Four Wheel Campers lightweight, low-profile, durable pop-up campers, crossed through 6 western states and included a wide cast of characters including climber Jonathan Siegrest, climber/surfer Jessica O’Bryan, professional snowboarders Danny Kass, Chad Otterstrom and Alex Andrews, snowboard mountaineer Laura Hadar and many more.
The adventures begin at the Four Wheel Camper factory in Sacramento, CA., where climber Jonathan Siegrist picks up his new rig and then heads west, to climb at Donner Summit. A trip to visit snowboarder Danny Kass in Mono Lake takes an unexpected turn due to wildfires nearby.
Viewers will get to experience the impact of the California wildfire smoke, get an intimate look at off-the grid living in Utah with a private backyard cement skatepark, see the beauty of lesser known National Parks, and imagine a simpler and perhaps more sustainable life, immersed in nature, with everything you need and nothing that you don’t.
Caravan producer and photographer Matt Alberts had this to say, “Traveling in these AEV’s, kitted out by Four Wheel Campers, allowed us to get to places you could never get to in a van. We were mindful of the resources we used including water and solar power and took great efforts to leave each place better than we found it. New Belgium Brewery, America’s first carbon-neutral brewery even paid to offset the carbon used on the trip. It truly blew my mind how simple this style of living can be.”
Featuring: Johnathan Siegrist @jonathansiegrist, Jess Obryan @surf.climb.travel, Danny Kass @mrdanielkass, Host Ryan Brown @hand_pressed.
Photography by Matt Alberts @matt_alberts_ Video by Aaron Hooper @filmforfood Edited by Ryland Chin @_chindustry
