OVERLANDING 101

Mark Mitchell
20 hours ago
3 min read

Updated: 18 minutes ago

A Field Guide to Vehicle-Based Adventure Travel by Scott Brady

Overlanding 101 is a comprehensive guidebook that is ideally suited for beginners just entering the world of vehicle-based travel, as well as intermediate adventurers looking to refine their systems and skills. It is particularly strong in debunking myths and clearing up confusion surrounding what gear is truly necessary for a safe and fulfilling travel experience.

This is what Overlanding is all about, self sustained travel to remote locations across the globe.

More seasoned overlanders might find some of the basic content familiar, but even these readers will appreciate the concise, field-tested advice and the inspirational imagery.

The book serves as a great reference guide to keep on hand for trip planning and vehicle outfitting and is meant for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of vehicle-based exploration whether they be aspiring overlander, a vanlifer, an off-road enthusiast or an adventure traveler. But Overlanding 101 is more than just a how-to guide—it represents a philosophy of travel that prioritizes preparation, self-reliance, respect for the environment, and an adventurous spirit.

The book is visually stunning. Full-color photographs from expeditions around the globe enhance the learning experience, offering both practical examples and travel inspiration.

Locations like this lie far off the beaten path and take some serious planning and preparation to experience fully

The layout of the book is clean and easy to follow, and the tone is engaging without being overly technical. It is thoughtfully organized into clearly defined chapters, each addressing a core aspect of overlanding. These include:

• Vehicle Selection and Preparation: This chapter looks at the pros and cons of different vehicle platforms—from motorcycles to trucks—explaining how to match a vehicle to one’s goals, budget, and experience level. He emphasizes the importance of reliability and simplicity over flashiness.

Motorcycles can be an affordable option for overland travel as long as you are properly kitted and prepared.

• Modifications and Equipment: Instead of pushing the current trend of overbuilt rigs, the author promotes functional and purposeful upgrades. He covers tires, suspension, recovery gear, rooftop tents, power systems, and more, always reinforcing the importance of real-world necessity over marketing hype.

Pickup based campers have been around for many years and offer a turn key solution to overland travel

• Navigation and Planning: Here the book delves into route planning, GPS and map usage, border crossings, fuel management, and communication methods. These sections are especially helpful for international overlanding, where logistics can become complex.

Navigation and route planning can be a challenging undertaking in many parts of the world

• Driving Skills and Safety: There’s a strong emphasis on foundational driving techniques, including off-road handling, water crossings, and recovery strategies. Importantly, the book addresses the importance of situational awareness, risk mitigation, and first-aid preparedness.

Proper driving technique is very important when you are miles from civilization and the nearest paved road

• Low-Impact Travel and Ethics: Environmental responsibility is a recurring theme throughout the book. The book advocates for well known “tread lightly” principles and sustainable travel practices—making it clear that true adventure travelers must also be stewards of the wild places they visit.

Practicing the principles of Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace will ensure future opportunities for us all

The author Scott Brady is a leading authority in the global overlanding community and publisher of Overland Journal. With decades of hands-on experience and expeditions across all seven continents under his belt, Brady distills his vast knowledge into a practical, accessible, and inspiring field guide for both novice and intermediate overland travelers.

In recent years the influence of the Vanlife movement has brought thousands of new people into overlanding

The influence of the Overland Journal team is evident throughout. Technical sidebars, gear lists, and real-world testing insights add depth without overwhelming the reader. The voice of the book is authoritative yet approachable—an ideal balance for a field guide aimed at those eager to learn.

Whether you’re planning a weekend excursion or dreaming of a round-the-world expedition, this book offers invaluable guidance and motivation from start to finish.

*“Photos from OVERLANDING 101: A FIELD GUIDE TO VEHICLE-BASED ADVENTURE TRAVEL by SCOTT BRADY. Copyright © 2025 by Scott Brady. Used by permission of the Publisher, Simon & Schuster, LLC. All rights reserved.”