Side Quest Overland

How to Start Overlanding: A Beginner’s Guide to the Basics This is how Project Explore Club's adventure rig started ...and this is how it evolved. Overlanding has exploded in popularity, and for good reason! It combines road-tripping, off-roading, and self-sufficient camping into one epic adventure. But getting started can feel overwhelming. Do you need a decked-out 4x4? Thousands of dollars in gear? Not at all. This guide breaks down the absolute basics, so you can hit the trails today without overcomplicating it. What is Overlanding? Overlanding is vehicle-based travel focused on self-sufficiency and exploration. It’s about the journey, not just the destination. Whether you’re taking a weekend camping trip or driving across continents, overlanding is about experiencing nature, testing your limits, and enjoying the adventure. The 4 Essentials You Need to Start Overlanding If you strip overlanding down to the essentials, you only need four things: 1. A Reliable Vehicle You don’t ne...

  Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Review: A Battery Beast Built for Adventure Introduction The Garmin Instinct series has always been about rugged reliability , and with the Instinct 2X Solar , Garmin took things up a notch. Bigger screen, better battery, added features like a built-in flashlight , and a solar panel that actually makes a difference —on paper, it looks like an adventurer’s dream. But does it hold up in real-world use? After months of daily wear—through cycling, running, hiking, swimming, and even some unexpected scenarios—I’ve put this watch through everything I could throw at it. Let’s break down where it excels, where it falls short, and whether it’s worth your money . Design & Build: Rugged, But Not Subtle If you want a sleek, minimalist smartwatch , this isn’t it. The Instinct 2X Solar is unapologetically big (50mm case) and built like a tank. The raised bezel around the screen adds solid protection, preventing scratches even after repeated bumps against rocks, g...

Adventure is about more than just exploring new places; it’s about capturing stories that inspire and connect with others. Whether you're embarking on an overlanding journey, a family road trip, or a solo backpacking adventure, documenting your experiences allows you to relive moments, share lessons, and even turn your passion into a sustainable side hustle. This guide will walk you through the essentials of starting your own adventure vlog, from choosing the right gear to telling compelling stories and growing an audience. 1. Why Document Your Adventures? Capturing Memories & Sharing Stories Every adventure holds unique moments that deserve to be remembered. Whether it’s a breathtaking sunrise in the mountains or a spontaneous family campfire story, filming and documenting these experiences allows you to revisit them and share them with others. Inspiring and Connecting with a Community By documenting your travels, you can inspire others to explore the outdoors, embrace f...

  Top 10 Kids Camping & Hiking Gear Exploring the great outdoors is a fantastic way for kids to develop confidence, resilience, and a deep appreciation for nature. But to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable experience, equipping them with the right gear is essential. Below, we highlight some of the best camping and hiking gear for kids, along with why they’re beneficial for your family adventures. 1. Best Kid-Friendly Backpack – Gregory Icarus 30L A well-fitting backpack is crucial for kids to carry their essentials without discomfort. The Gregory Icarus 30L is designed specifically for young adventurers, featuring an adjustable torso system, ergonomic shoulder straps, and a lightweight frame for better comfort on the trail. 2. Lightweight and Sturdy Hiking Shoes – Merrell Trail Chaser Proper footwear prevents blisters and injuries. The Merrell Trail Chaser is a rugged yet comfortable shoe designed for kids, featuring a non-slip sole, breathable upper, and durable cons...

  Overlanding vs. Off-road Camping: Finding the Right Balance Introduction: What Even is Overlanding? When people hear "overlanding," they often think of massive rigs decked out with light bars, winches, recovery boards, and all the Instagram-ready accessories. But is that really what it's all about? Is it just for show, or is there a real purpose behind all that gear? The truth is, it's a mix of both. We've been off-road camping since around 2017, and over the years, we've learned that not everything the industry tells you is "essential" actually is. We've gone through the cycle of buying all the gear, only to later strip things down to what we truly need. So, let’s break it down: what is actually necessary for overlanding, and what is just overkill? The Gear Trap: Do You Really Need All That? Early on, social media convinced us that we needed every possible piece of equipment—rock sliders, winches, skid plates, massive tires, and an array ...

  Mastering Outdoor Skills for Adventure Lovers In today's fast-paced world, the quest to learn new skills is not just enriching but also opens doors to thrilling experiences. At www.projectexplore.club , we are dedicated to facilitating and supporting unforgettable family-friendly outdoor adventures. This guide dives deep into acquiring new skills, with a focus on outdoor activities, travel, hiking, cycling, fitness, camping, and family experiences. Embracing the Learning Adventure Learning is a continuous journey, laden with both challenges and triumphs. The key to this journey lies in understanding the learning process and developing a growth mindset. A positive attitude is the cornerstone of skill acquisition. Let each learning experience be an adventure filled with discovery and personal growth and share it with those you enjoy being around. Picking the Right Outdoor Activity When selecting a new skill, align it with your interests. Whether it's the tranquility of hiking o...

Conquering Your 2024 Fitness Goals: An Earth-Inspired Guide to Emotional Wellbeing Embarking on a transformative journey toward your #fitness_goals in 2024 involves more than strategic planning—it's an exploration of earth therapy methods and their impact on social and emotional wellbeing. This comprehensive guide unfolds in two parts, intertwining evidence-based strategies with the therapeutic benefits of the natural world. Part 1: Setting SMART Goals for Sustainable Success in Harmony with the Environment Specificity in the Outdoors Begin your journey with the specificity of the great outdoors. Replace vague fitness goals with clear, well-defined objectives. Imagine conquering a 5K trail in six months or shedding stress with mindful walks in a serene landscape. This precision aligns your fitness aspirations with the rejuvenating power of the environment. Measurability in Natural Progress The environment becomes your guide in measuring progress. Quantify your achievements amidst t...