Over the past 9 11 years, we have tried and tested a wide variety of camping gear. This is a list of what we pack and bring on a regular basis. We believe in buying quality gear that will last for years vs cheap disposable gear. Some of this comes down to personal preference. A chair we love another person may not be comfortable in. This is what works for us.
All of our gear is well organized. 90% of it remains in our trailer making it easy to get away on a moment’s notice. If you don’t own a trailer having everything well organized can save time packing along with reducing the chance of forgetting items. How we have organized has changed through the years based on the different trailers we have owned. Read our storage article for mini-reviews of the product we like. The common theme has been to store items in clear tubs as much as possible and label everything else.
If you are just starting out we hope you find this list useful. Everything is a trade-off and we constantly reevaluate what we pack and how we pack. Clicking the Buy button will take you to the retailer’s website or Amazon for more information. Updated on: 12/9/2020
We have added a list for all of the gear we are installing on and in our 2021 4Runner TRD Off Road Premium. Yes, we got a new vehicle recently. An article on the reason for the change along with a build thread is forthcoming.
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Camping Gear
Product Name | Price | Description | Info | |
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https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/vyT4RjsOQ4Ckl3O22XBPg-scaled.jpg | Revel Trailhound LED Lights | $24.99-$29.99 | These copper wire lights work great along our awning. | Buy |
https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Tire_Storage_Bag_XL_%E2%80%93_Blue_Ridge_Overland_Gear.png | Blue Ridge Overland Gear Tire Storage Bag XL | $179.99 | If you are tired of your other brand trash bag falling apart upgrade to this monster bag from Blue Ridge Overland Gear. Easy to take on and off of your vehicle, built to last, made in the USA with a lifetime warranty. As of December 2020 this bag is still going strong! Great addition. We just need to figure out how to make it work with the 4Runner since we no longer have a spare tire on the back of the vehicle. It may get moved to the front of our trailer for the time being. | Buy |
https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/orangescrewlg.jpg | Orange Screw - The Ultimate Ground Anchor | $19.95 | In soft dirt and sandy conditions standard ground stakes won't do the job. When you want to secure your valuable gear we suggest the large orange screws. We own a mix of the large and small styles. Pack of 2. | Buy |
https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/orangescrewlg.jpg | Orange Screw - The Ultimate Ground Anchor - Small | $26.95 | Depending on conditions we also uses the small orange screws to halp secure everything down come in a pack of 4 | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/417JCCGEkkL._AC_.jpg | Rope Ratchets 1/4" | $8.59 | Rope Ratchets make it easy to quickly secure and adjust the lines to the awning. Take the hassle out of adjusting ropes. | Buy |
Tables | Our additction to finding the perfect table(s) is only second to our addiction to find the perfect flashlight. Yes we own all of these tables! Depending on the type of trip a few get rotated in and out. | |||
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61QibkX3WUL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Lifetime Commercial 4' Table | $50.00 | This table is quick to setup and rugged. We like that it can be set at 36" in height. This is our go to table with our trailer. | Buy |
https://www.rei.com/media/02699e6a-cc9e-49ac-a89d-5ffbf77a3982?size=784x588 | REI Rolltop Table | $75.00 | This is a great compact table. Quick setup and takedown. The only con for some users will be the fixed height of 28" | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71PfnulxXYL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Alps Sidekick Table/Stool | $25.00 | This is a great small side table and stool for when you need a quick place to sit. One of our favorite gadgets! We own two! | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/814RfkG22eL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Browning Camping Outfitter Table | $85.00 | Great for tall people. Rolls up for storage. Table height can extend to 36". This is our go to table when we camp without our trailer. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61hQDGDo4BL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Lifetime 4' Folder Table | $39.99 | More compact but less sturdy than the non-folding version. This is also a good option. For Off Grid Trailer owners this will fit inside of the front storage box next to your fridge | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71f%2By2EFHmL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Alps Mountaineering Dining Table XL | $99.99 | This is a great sturdy table that rolls up into a carrying bag. The only con is it in not compact. with the top arms being full length when stored. 28" W x 55" L x 28" H | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71mrKAACpIL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camp Chair | $220.00 | We love these rocker style chairs. Only con is the chair tends to keep you in a reclined position which might make it harder for some to eat. While we love the chairs you should always test a chair before purchasing one. | Buy |
https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/BF-FD41.jpeg | Fenix Flashlights and Headlamps | Depends on model | Too many models to list but we wrote an article on what our favorites are. Great reliable flashlights and headllamps. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51PF2eeTMQL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Truma C69DZ - Dual Zone Fridge Freezer | $1,549.00 | 69 Liters = 72.9 Quarts. Note: some manufacturers list the fridge capacities as quarts and some as liters. We have replaced our Dometic fridge with the Truma after purchasing our new 4Runner. The Dometic was too deep for our new setup in the back of the 4Runner. Truma's are made in Germany. The app which connects to the fridge via Bluetooth works very well. Each zone has its own temperature control. You can also remove the divider to create a single large area. Truma does not offer a fridge slide currently but we have ordered a potential solution. If that goes well we will add a link. To see all the models visit the Truma store page on Amazon, https://amzn.to/370U0AG | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51U%2BY7k7NBL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Dometic CFX3 75L Dual Zone Powered Cooler | $1,299.00 | 75 liters - 79.2 Quarts Note: some manufacturers list the fridge capacities as quarts and some as liters. One of the largest fridges available that will still fit inside of our FJ Cruiser. This dual zone fridge allows us to carry frozen goods in either sections if we want to. We have the previous generation model. This new model has better power consumption information in the app (Yes, the fridge has an app) and can even make ice cubes for you. Regardless of model and most brands a fridge will greatly enhance your camping experience. We even did a fridge shootout review in 2017. No more soggy bread! | Buy |
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0090/5910/6873/products/65-ss-front..png?v=1574961324 | Canyon Cooler | Varies | For when we don't bring our fridge or when we want to dedicate the fridge to food and have cold beverages the Canyon Coolers are excellent. We own two different sizes. Also great for trips to the store in the hot summer months. | Buy |
Cooking Gear
Product Name | Price | Description | ||
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https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61cayjLlQqL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Omnia Oven | $69.99-$110 | If you miss baking on the trail the Omnia oven is a great solution. We have baked bread, biscuits, stuff chicken, and more in our Omnia Oven. We recommend getting the silicone liners it makes cleanup very easy! | Buy |
https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/media/catalog/product/cache/11f448c2736cb138681faf0ba59260e1/c/a/camp-kitchen-utensil-set-front-runner-kitc041-1.jpg | Front Runner Utencil Set | $59.95 | Camp Kitchen Utencil Set - This is a super convenient setup. It attaches nicely to the side of our trailer. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61gRMlHkWuL._AC_SL1306_.jpg | Magma Stacking Pots | $149.95 | If you value storage space these stacking pots are the way to go. Great quality and easy to clean. We store them in the optional bag. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/A17iwrwLi9L._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Sea to Summit Delta Plate | $9.95 | Many choices when it comes to plates. These work well for us. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61auoer0Q-L._AC_SL1398_.jpg | Sea to Summit Bowl | $7.79-$14.95 | Available with our without a lid. Pack well. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81vWEk9VqLL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | JetBoil | $105.95 | For when you need hot water quickly. (Think morning coffee) the JetBoil is an amazing piece of equipment to have. Also great for when the weather is bad and you just want a quick bag meal. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81eAR9vV9LL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | JetBoil French Press | $17.95 | NEW for 2020! Create delicious French press style coffee wherever your adventure takes you. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61cXx2urNNL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Gas ONE GS-3900P New Dual Fuel Propane or Butane Portable Stove | $59.99 | We use this single burner stove with our Omnia Oven when baking and to keep food warm during group meals. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/817c2lrevEL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Collapsable Tubs | $19.95 | Great for soaking dirty dishes. While our trailer has a sink these expand our capabilities and allow us to conserve water. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81bi-%2Bjo8zL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Lunatec Quick Dry Scrubber Cloth | $8.75 | Is there anything worse than a funky sponge? These work great and dry out quickly 4 pack- Quick drying so no smell or bacteria. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91scE%2B6Vl-L._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Candure Cast Iron Cleaner Stainless Steel 7x7 Inch Chainmail Scrubber | $9.99 | This is a great way to clean all metal pots and pans. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81dP86xHkKL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Napoleon O-Grill | $199.00 | We have found this to be the most compact with a large grilling surface. We also have the optional carrying bag. | Buy |
Tech Gear, Communications, and Gadgets
Product Name | Price | Description | ||
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https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MXT115-768x457.jpg | Midland Radio MXT115 | 149.99 | Great compact GMRS radio. See our article | Buy |
6DB Antenna Upgrade MXTA26 | $39.99 | This antenna helps improve reception and transmitting power in urban environments | Buy | |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71oHpqvi2fL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Midland MXTA12 NMO Magentic Mount | $24.99 | Magnetic mount for 6DB Antenna | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71-fMfP68fL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Midland - GXT1000VP4, 50 Channel GMRS Two-Way Radio | $69.99 | Great handheld radios to use when away from camp or to use with someone spotting your rig on the trail. | Buy |
Solar | Regardless of battery capacity at some point you need to recharge those batteries. | |||
https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-fhnch/images/stencil/2048x2048/products/1014/19365/100MB__52658.1597435995.jpg?c=2 | Renogy Solar Panels | $169.99 | You could say we are addicted to solar. Our vehicle has a 100 watt panel mounted to the roof rack. Our trailer has a 50 watt panel and we have a 100 watt solar suitcase as well. Regardless of what batteries you have or how many at some point they need to be recharged. Renogy products have worked well for us. We accidently left our portable panel in its case on our roof rack. It fell of the roof at over 50mph and survived with only minor damage. Price listed is for the 100 watt panel we own. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41g6pfWu9FL._AC_.jpg | Renogy Rover MPPT Controller | $165.00 | We have this controller installed in our trailer. We also use the optional Bluetooth module to monitor our solar and battery performance. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61fpEEOMWgL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Renogy BT-1 Bluetooth Module Solar Charge Controller Wireless monitor PV System | $39.00 | Used in conjunction with both of our solar controllers. You can check your panel performance from the comfort of your camping chair. Range is up to 30' | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51fusenDwLL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller | $32.00 | This is an excellent basic solar controller. We use this one in our vehicle to control the 100 watt panel mounted to our rooffrack. | Buy |
https://www.4xoverlandadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Fireside1-768x576.jpg | Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Pit | $119.95 | This amazing firepit is compact and portable. Set up your fire where you want! Add the optional grilltop and you have a great cooking surface. Fires burn completely out with easy cleanup when you are done. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81FC5r-IBQL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Garmin InReach Explorer | $417.00 | Garmin offers several different models including the InReach mini. This model is most similar to what we own. We have had ours for 4 years and it works great. The ability to communicate anywhere without cell service is a great safety tool. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51uT3UH3HDL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | GOOLOO 800A Peak 18000mAh SuperSafe Car Jump Starter | $69.99 | We own a different model but when all else fails a jumpbox like this can be a lifesaver and get you back on the road. We have never had to use our personally but have helped others when their battery failed. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/511GyDIrvML._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Govee Wireless Thermometer Hygrometer, Mini Bluetooth Humidity and Temperature Sensor | $19.99 | We use this inside of our shower box to monitor the temperature. You can set temperature alarms. For example notify me when the temp goes below freezing. Great device. You can easily export data from the free app to a spreadsheet. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61HhHwMGM%2BL._AC_SL1200_.jpg | Flexzilla HFZ1450YW2 1/4" (inches) x 50' (feet) Air Hose, 50 ft | $20.88 | We use this with our ARB compressor. The hose can but cut down to a shorter lenght if need be but this size allows us to air up our trailer tires and help others who might not have a compressor. | Buy |
Other Options We Like | ||||
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71btXEs6IpL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Midland MXT275 | $149.99 | Optional Radio - Another great radio from Midland in a different form factor. | Buy |
Personal Hygiene
Product Name | Price | Description | ||
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https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71E70ecdd8L._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Lunatec Aquabot Spray Nozzle | $21.00 | Take a quick shower, wash your hands, cool off, rinse dishes and more! If we were on an island as they say we would want the Aquabot. So many uses. The two best are for showing and rinsing dishes. Increase your campsite water efficiiency. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51lTm1LYKqL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Cleanwaste Portable Toilet | $64.00 | Well you gotta go and we like this toilet. Bags are expensive but when you have to pack in and pack out they work well. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Za4bBjFKL._AC_SL1001_.jpg | Dude Wipes - Shower Wipes | $15.38 | For those between shower times. These extra large wipes get the job done. | Buy |
https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-pusehjx/images/stencil/original/w/camping-toilets__32988.original.jpg | Bush toilet | $79.00 | When camping in an area where digging a hole for your waste is acceptable this toilet makes doing your business a comfortable process. The manufacturer states bags can be used but we have not found them to be too convenient. Packing out your TP to avoid future "white flowers" near your campsite is encouraged. When done this folds nice and flat for compact storage. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/716atKEkXCL._AC_SL1001_.jpg | High Pressure 6 Setting Handheld Shower Head with ON/OFF Switch and Spa Spray Mode | $26.99 | The default showheads that come with most hot water heaters are not very good. We found our factory one hard to turn on and off. This direct placement works great. No need to swap the water line. All you have to do is replace the head. Make sure you use Teflon tape to seal the threads. | Buy |
Storage
With all the gear we carry you have to have a place to put it. These are some of our favorite storage bags and containers. We have a more in-depth discussion of our preferred storage options here.
Product Name | Price | Description | ||
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https://shop.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/6/4/64661_W3.jpg | Harbor Freight 18" Tool Bag | $22.99 | Great to pack a variety of gear. | Buy |
https://shop.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/6/3/63135_W3.jpg | Harbor Freight Ammo Box | $4.99 | We use these for all kinds of thing: Bug gear, tent stakes, spices, you name it. 5 are in the back are in our trailer galley. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/613knzpjTWL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | Sheffield Field Box/Ammon Can | $10.99 | Another good option to store gear. Variety of color choices | Buy |
https://www.ikea.com/us/en/images/products/ikea-365--food-container-with-lid-rectangular-plastic__0594331_PE675656_S5.JPG?f=xxl | Ikea 365+ Storage Containers | From $3.49 | Multiple size choices. 4-6 latch design provides a good seal to keep air and dust out. We use these to store food and miscellaneous gear. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51WZ8w%2BWdfL._SL1000_.jpg | WaterBrick 3.75 Gallons | $24.00 | At 3.75 gallons they are not too heavy to lift. We use these when we don't bring our trailer. Great as a general water storage container or hand washing station. They also stack well. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61sh2fHVNaL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | WaterBrick Spout | $19.99 | This water spout works well. Easy on and off with no leaking | Buy |
https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/media/catalog/product/cache/54bca2f1e8552d955aba742e5aef85dc/f/r/front-runner-wolf-pack-SBOX008-1.jpg | FrontRunner WolfPacks | $39.99 | These storage boxes are square, stackable, and watertight | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61XtFi4IyOL._AC_SL1500_.jpg | ZipLock Storage Tubs | Varies | These come in a variety of sizes. Each have a good dustproof seal. We like clear storage tubs whenever possible. It's always nice to be able to easily see what is inside. | Buy |
Toyota 4Runner Products
Yes, we are nuts and decided to switch from our beloved Toyota FJ Cruiser to a new 2021 TRD Offroad Premium 4 Runner. Here’s a list of the gear we have added to the rig.
Product Name | Price | Description | Info | |
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https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0064/0126/1637/products/[email protected]?v=1580535547 | ICS Fabrication Center Mount | $95.00 | Our preferred mount for all of our gadgets in the 4Runner. ICS makes products for a variety of vehicles. | Buy |
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1857/5413/products/MountOnly_2000x.jpg?v=1606891185 | Tackform iPad Mount | $49.99 | We needed a more flexible solution to mount our iPad. This mount from Tackform was the winner. All metal design on the arm for strength. Very flexible in terms of position placement. We are very happy with this purchase and plan to add more products from Tackform. If you shop through us we do receive a small affiliate fee. | Buy |
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1857/5413/products/DZP_0934_2000x.jpg?v=1568886093 | Tackform Phone Mount | $54.99 | Another great mount from Tackform. All metal construction with countless positions. Strong grip for your phone and best of all the mount doesn't interfere with any of the buttons. | Buy |
https://www.batteriesplus.com/content/images/product/large/678807.jpg | X2 Battery from Batteries Plus | $359.99 | Just like in our FJ we went with a Group 27 X2 Battery. This battery provides 90ah of power and has a 5 year replacement warranty! There is a $30 rebate until the end of the year. Check the Batteries Plus website for details. | Buy |
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51AdZeQ9LZL._AC_SL1000_.jpg | Cllena Quick Charge 3.0 Dual USB Port Charger Socket for Toyota | $22.99 | This is a nice dual power port that fits into any blank stock switchplate. Some have taken these apart to remove the blue led lights but if you keep your cords plugged in they are hidden. I would expect minimal power savings by removing them. | Buy |
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