Toyota Rav4 Overland (Beginners Guide)
The Toyota RAV4, a well-liked compact crossover, is gaining traction as a choice for adventurous journeys combining remote travel, off-roading, and camping.
This type of adventure is often referred to as overlanding!
The trend of Toyota Rav4 Overland travel is catching on fast. If you’re keen on embarking on road trips and making the most of your RAV4’s spacious storage, comfy features, and off-road prowess, stick around. Here’s a beginner’s guide to getting started with RAV4 overlanding.
What is Overlanding?
Overlanding is all about independent travel. It’s when people rely entirely on themselves to journey to faraway places, with adventure being the main focus.
Usually, overlanding involves using vehicles like bikes or trucks that can handle rough terrain. And when it comes to accommodations, camping is the way to go. People might embark on overland trips for just a few days, extend them into months, or even travel across different countries along the way.
Overland Builds
Overland-ready RAV4s are designed to be like a mini home on wheels, perfect for living out of while on the road. However, they’re not typically suited for extreme off-roading activities like rock-crawling due to the vehicle’s weight distribution.
When it comes to preparing for overlanding, there’s a checklist of essential items every traveler should have. These include things like communication devices for remote areas, maps and navigation tools, medical supplies, a bug-out bag for emergencies, a set of tools and spare parts, recovery gear, proper tires with a spare, and secure lashing points for cargo.
In the sections below, we’ll delve into more details about these necessities. And if you’ve never seen how a Toyota RAV4 can be transformed into an overland-ready rig, take a peek at these photos for inspiration!
Getting Started to Overland Journey
To kick off your overland journey, it’s crucial to prepare your vehicle with all the essentials and comforts you’ll need along the way.
This involves adding modifications tailored for off-road adventures and investing in camping gear. Your choice of modifications and accessories will depend on the type of terrain you’ll be tackling and the duration of your adventure.
Let’s dive into some top recommendations for enhancing your RAV4 for Overlanding and the must-have camping accessories:
Overlanding Mods & Accessories
Lift Kit
A lift kit boosts the distance between your vehicle and the ground. This upgrade can significantly improve the look, feel, and capability of your RAV4.
All Terrain Tires
Equipping your RAV4 with all-terrain tires enhances traction on various surfaces, both on and off-road. Consider the Falken Wildpeak A/T Tires for top-notch performance during your adventures.
Roof Rack
A sturdy roof rack provides ample space to store your gear securely. Options like the Prinsu Roof Rack offer durability and reliability, ensuring your equipment stays safe throughout your journey.
Lightbar
Installing a light bar illuminates the area in front or behind your vehicle, making it invaluable for nighttime driving or navigating dimly lit roads.
Rooftop Tent
A rooftop tent offers a comfortable sleeping solution atop your RAV4, saving you the hassle of setting up ground tents. Look for a rooftop tent with a strong base for stability and quick deployment.
Water Tank
Water tanks are essential for storing water during your overland trips. Brands like WaterPORT offer durable and portable options to keep you hydrated on the road.
Retractable Awning
A retractable awning provides shade and shelter during your outdoor activities. The ARB Retractable Awning with LED Lights is a convenient option for camping and road trips.
By outfitting your RAV4 with these modifications and accessories, you’ll be well-equipped for an unforgettable overlanding adventure.
You should also check: Toyota Rav4 FWD vs AWD (Which Should You Choose?)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Toyota RAV4 proves to be an excellent choice for overlanding adventures, offering reliability, versatility, and the ability to tackle various terrains with ease. With the right modifications and accessories, your RAV4 can transform into a capable and comfortable vehicle for exploring remote destinations and enjoying the great outdoors to the fullest. Embark on your overland journey with confidence, knowing that your RAV4 is ready to take you on unforgettable adventures.
