Gadgets, gear, and 4×4 retromods galore drew Overland Expo WEST’s largest crowd yet
Featuring hundreds of overlanding rigs, specialized classes, gadgets, gear, and retromods, the annual Overland Expo conference is considered to be the world’s premier overlanding event.
It has now been a tradition for nearly a decade, but the Flagstaff event experienced a notable increase in attendees, exhibitors, and volunteers.
It was quite the challenge, but we’ve narrowed down the top highlights from the 2017 Overland Expo WEST.
Gadgets and Gear
Because even the smallest components can have the biggest impact when going off the grid, there was plenty of eye-catching gadgets on display at Overland Expo WEST.
Griffin Pocket Multi-Tool
The Griffin Pocket Multi-Tool is essential for everyday use. It seamlessly fits on your keychain and serves multiple purposes. With 11 functions, this tool acts as a bottle opener, pocket clip, flat head screwdriver, pry tool, scoring tool, bit driver, and five hex wrenches.
Kariba Ranger 4×4
Another notable multi-purpose gadget is the Kariba Ranger 4×4, both a compact hot shower system and a dual-burner cooktop. This small, lightweight water heater and cooker system also offers options for washing dishes and laundry. The Kariba Ranger 4×4 is new to the U.S. market and will soon be available through Equipt.
Tool Organizers by Adventure Tool Company
The Adventure Tool Company’s durable lineup of tool organization products were such a hit at the Overland Expo WEST. They actually completely sold out. The line offers Tool Pouches for organizing tools, parts, and equipment of any size. Made from waxed canvas, the pouches are guaranteed to last a lifetime, as well as the contents within, as the material prevents metal from rusting. The 34 different Name Tape options make for optimal organization.
The TailGater Tire Table
Anyone can utilize the TailGater Tire Table, outdoorsy or not. This gadget straps onto the spare tire—or any tire— for easy transport and can optimize camping, tailgating, or just regular days outdoors with a sturdy table or counter space.
Camping
CampingThe outdoor gear industry is nothing if not creative, as demonstrated at the Overland Expo this year.
Baja Series XL by Tepui Tents
The struggles of camping in less than ideal climates are problems of the past thanks to a new tent design from Tepui Tents. The Baja Series XL tent has interchangeable canopies to fit any time of the year. One can seamlessly go from a screened summer tent to an aluminized tent for worse weather with the use of their newly patented Zipper GimpTM system.
Gen3 Roof Top Tent line by Treeline Outdoors
They may seem like typical roof top tents with flashy colors, an awning, and a unique window, but the Gen3 Roof Top Tent line by Treeline Outdoors offer innovative features. The aluminum honeycomb deck and solar-friendly features make these tents stand out from the rest. Specifically, the company’s collaboration with Goal Zero helps the Gen3 tents seamlessly integrate with solar products.
4×4’s
As more people seek outdoor adventures, it has created an opportunity to bring together two booming industries. The fusion of the outdoor gear and automotive industries has led to some fascinating creations.
Tecamp by Terracamper
At a glance, the Tecamp might look like a simple family van, but in the blink of an eye—and pop of the roof—this passenger van becomes Terracamper’s campervan. New to the U.S. market, Terracamper is a one of a kind van conversion that offers sustainable upgrades such as solar panel systems, lithium-ion batteries, and a Victron energy charger and display.
The EarthRoamer XV-LTS
The EarthRoamer XV-LTS is the world’s best-selling off-road, off-grid, luxury expedition vehicle. It more than proved its capability at the Overland Expo WEST. Built on a four-wheel drive, turbo diesel, Ford F-550 chassis, the EarthRoamer is self-sufficient with solar and battery power, without any use any propane.
Retromods
RetromodsThe most compelling of the 4×4’s are on the smaller end—what’s more, they’ve been restored and modernized.
New Legend Scouts
Bringing a beautiful fusion of old and new, New Legend—a spinoff of Anything Scout—had some of the best retromods at Overland Expo WEST. Combining the original Scout style with innovative technology, New Legend is able to transform retro vehicles into timeless classics from the inside out, even improving original flaws to promote longevity.
The FJ Company’s Toyota Land Cruiser
The 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser was spotted at the Overland Expo WEST in all its matte green glory. This model is one of the last of its kind and is referred to as “King of the mountain” by The FJ Company. This restoration has LED fog lights, double battery, a Warn Zeon winch, and a marine-grade premium sound system. Most importantly, it shows the beauty that can come from blending newer concepts with a timeless classic.
The possibilities for going off-grid are endless, and as years pass the overlanding lifestyle continues gaining popularity. The Overland Expo may be just under decade old, but it has become a staple event for bringing the overlanding community together.
