Onboard Air for Overlanding: Compressors, Airbags, Tanks & More | CAMO Convoy Podcast

DESCRIPTION / SHOW NOTES

Onboard air can be as simple as airing your tires back up after the trail, or it can become an entire pneumatic utility system built into your rig.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron dig deep into onboard air for overlanding and off road vehicles. We break down how to properly size a compressor, what PSI and CFM actually tell you, why duty cycle matters, whether you need an air tank, and how to safely plumb and wire the entire system.

Then we get into the fun stuff.

Airbags for towing and off road suspension control. Pressurized water systems. Air horns. Blow guns. Air tools. Air jacks. Bead seating. Pneumatic camper accessories. Independent airbag controls. And some increasingly questionable ideas once you give two mechanically inclined people a supply of compressed air.

We also talk about something that gets overlooked far too often: compressed air is stored energy and needs to be treated seriously. Pressure relief valves, tank drainage, proper plumbing, heat management, electrical load and component selection all matter.

Then at the end of the show we switch gears for a bonus tech segment and look inside several different ball joint designs. We compare construction, materials and articulation from Mevotech TTX, MOOG Problem Solver, ACDelco, SKP, SPC and OEM joints, and discuss why suspension travel can destroy even a good ball joint if the joint itself becomes the suspension travel limiter.

IN THIS EPISODE

• Air pump vs. air compressor
• PSI vs. CFM
• Why advertised CFM numbers can be misleading
• Compressor duty cycle
• 100% duty cycle compressors
• Choosing the right compressor for large tires
• Air tanks and reserve capacity
• Pressure switches and check valves
• Compressor intake placement and filtration
• Moisture and draining air tanks
• Heat management and compressor mounting
• Wiring high amperage compressors correctly
• Anderson connectors and wire sizing
• Pressure relief valves and onboard air safety
• Why PVC should never be used for compressed air
• Airline and fitting selection
• Air tools vs. modern cordless tools
• Using onboard air with suspension airbags
• Independent airbag fill and dump controls
• Airbags for towing, overlanding and off road traction
• Pressurized onboard water
• Blow guns and trail repairs
• Inflatable camp equipment
• Pneumatic rams and air jacks
• Bead seating and tire inflation
• Four tire inflation systems
• CO2 and portable compressed air tanks
• Solenoids and electric ball valves
• Ball joint construction and articulation
• TTX vs. MOOG vs. ACDelco vs. SKP
• SPC and OEM upper ball joints
• Why your ball joint should NEVER be your suspension travel limiter

CAMO Convoy Podcast
Central Appalachian Mountain Overland

#Overlanding #OnboardAir #OffRoad #AirCompressor #TruckBuild #4x4 #OverlandBuild #Airbags #Suspension #BallJoints

We’re joined by Nick from Explore, Discover, and Adventure Together to talk about raising kids around camping, wrenching, exploring, and the outdoors. From building an M101A1 military trailer into an overland camper with his son to taking family adventures across the East, Nick has built his version of overlanding around doing it together.

This isn’t just a show for parents either. We get into what makes overlanding and off road travel fun in the first place, how to introduce someone new to camping, why you don’t need a $100,000 overland build to explore, and why some of the best adventures can start with a stock vehicle and a desire to get outside.

We cover:

• Overlanding with kids and family camping
• Getting children excited about outdoor adventure
• Giving kids real jobs and responsibility around camp
• Family road trips and long distance overland travel
• Keeping kids entertained without relying on screens
• Camping activities, exploring, bugs, creeks and the outdoors
• Rain, mosquitoes, ticks and bad weather at camp
• Teaching kids mechanical skills, welding and problem solving
• Building an overland camper as a family project
• Making your 4x4 or camping setup comfortable for the whole family
• Handling stressful situations and off road recoveries with kids around
• Teaching independence, confidence and outdoor skills
• Changing plans when an overland trip goes wrong
• Why you don’t need an expensive truck or extreme 4x4 build to start overlanding
• Getting the entire family involved instead of making adventure one person’s hobby

Whether you’re into overlanding, off roading, dispersed camping, 4x4 travel, family camping, road trips, adventure travel, vehicle based camping, DIY overland builds, or simply getting outdoors more often, there’s something in this conversation for you.

The biggest takeaway is simple: stop overthinking it and go. You don’t need the perfect overland rig, the perfect gear list, or an extreme trail. Get outside, explore somewhere new, solve problems together, and bring the family along for the ride.

Subscribe to the CAMO Convoy Podcast for more conversations about overlanding, off road travel, camping, 4x4s, Appalachian adventure, vehicle builds and the people who make this community what it is.

#Overlanding #OffRoad #FamilyCamping #OverlandingWithKids #Camping #4x4 #OffRoadAdventure #AdventureTravel #FamilyAdventure #Overland #OutdoorAdventure #VehicleCamping #DispersedCamping

Everybody talks about heading West when they want to disappear, but Appalachia still has plenty of places where the pavement ends, cell service disappears, and you can get surprisingly far away from civilization.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron dig into some of the best hidden, forgotten, and downright wild places left to explore in the East.

We’re talking remote forest roads, legitimate four wheel drive terrain, dispersed camping, elk country, abandoned railroad tunnels, tiny mountain towns, deep West Virginia backcountry, and places most people drive right past without realizing what’s hiding there.

We also grade each area for both OFF ROAD and OVERLAND potential, because a great wheeling destination and a great overland destination aren’t always the same thing.

PLACES WE COVER:

• Sinnemahoning and the Pennsylvania Wilds
• Hammersley Wild Area and Susquehannock State Forest
• George Washington National Forest
• Bald Eagle State Forest
• Vinton County, Ohio
• Monongahela National Forest and Pocahontas County, West Virginia

Vinton County in particular might surprise you. Some of the best wheeling on the entire list is hiding on old Appalachian backroads in southeastern Ohio. And on the other end of the spectrum, Hammersley contains the largest roadless area in Pennsylvania, where the truck gets you to the edge and the real exploration starts on foot.

HELP KEEP THE DBBB OPEN

A road on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway in Owsley County, Kentucky is currently being considered for closure.

If you support continued legal motorized access, please respectfully contact the county officials below and explain why the DBBB, adventure tourism, off roading, and the money travelers spend in small Appalachian communities matter.

Owsley County Judge Executive Zeke Little Jr.
Phone: 606 593 6202
Email: zekelittlejr@yahoo.com
Mail: P.O. Box 749, Booneville, KY 41314

Owsley County Attorney Henley McIntosh
Phone: 606 593 6233
Mail: 100 Mulberry Street, P.O. Box 68, Booneville, KY 41314

Keep it respectful. The goal is to show these communities that responsible motorized recreation brings people, money, and support into rural Appalachia.

If you’ve explored any of these areas, drop your favorite destination in the comments. And if there’s a forgotten corner of Appalachia we missed, tell us where we need to go next.

Subscribe for more overlanding, off road travel, Appalachian exploration, gear, trips, and questionable decisions from the CAMO crew.

LOST APPALACHIA. THE LAST WILD EAST.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron put popular overland gear, vehicle modifications and entire platforms on trial. Some equipment earns a permanent place in the truck. Some only makes sense in very specific situations. And some of it is expensive Instagram decoration that makes your vehicle worse at actually traveling.

We debate:

Rooftop tents and awnings
RotopaX and fuel storage
Traction boards
Snorkels
DECKED drawer systems
Onboard air
Jetboil style stoves
Loud exhaust systems
Regearing
Oversized tires
Jeeps as overland vehicles
Diesel heaters
And plenty more

No sponsor-approved answers. No pretending every expensive accessory is essential. Just two experienced overlanders arguing about what works, what does not and what people buy because it looks cool.

What piece of overland gear do you think is completely overhyped? Drop it in the comments. We may read your answer on the show.

Subscribe for honest overland discussion, vehicle builds, trail stories and questionable financial decisions.

#Overlanding #OverlandGear #OffRoad #CampingGear #CAMOConvoyPodcast

In this episode, we dig into unconventional overland vehicles, including Subarus, crossovers, minivans, old Kias, Astro vans, forgotten SUVs, and other cheap oddballs people are using to get outside.

We break down which vehicles actually have useful potential, which limitations can be managed, and which cheap platforms are cheap because they genuinely suck. We also talk about AWD systems, CVTs, payload, ground clearance, tire size, rust, aftermarket support, sleeping inside the vehicle, and why the right vehicle depends entirely on the trip you are trying to take.

Whether you already own something unconventional, are shopping on a limited budget, or just like building weird vehicles, this episode will help you figure out what is worth investing in and what will become an expensive learning experience.

What unconventional vehicle would you build into an overlander?

Follow the CAMO Convoy Podcast wherever you listen, leave us a five star review, and send us photos of your ride for a chance to be featured on the show.

#Overlanding #Subaru #OverlandVehicles #BudgetOverland #VanLife

Quick note before we get into it: Aaron’s crickets were absolutely losing their minds during this episode, so we had to do some extra audio cleanup in post. If the audio feels slightly off in a few spots, that’s why. We figured it was better than making you listen to a full-blown Appalachian insect orchestra for two hours.

Everybody wants the secret spots, the perfect GPX file, the best campsite, the scenic overlook at lunch, and the secluded camp by 4 PM. But the real answer is not just downloading a route from OnX or Gaia and hoping for the best.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron break down how to actually plan an overland trip that fits the kind of adventure you want. Gravel roads, remote campsites, tourist stops, technical trails, dark sky camping, group trips, solo scouting, and everything in between.

We talk through how to pick a region, find points of interest, use maps and satellite views, read MVUMs, plan fuel stops, choose campsites, avoid burning sensitive spots, deal with locals, respect public land, and keep the group happy once you are actually out there.

We also get into campsite etiquette, generators, fire rings, packing out trash, group pacing, social media responsibility, and why some spots are better left untagged.

This one is for anyone who has ever asked:

Where can I overland?
How do I find campsites?
How do I plan an overland route?
How do I find legal trails and forest roads?
How do I avoid being “that guy” on public land?

Send us your build photos and we may feature your rig on the show.

Email: centralappoutdoors@gmail.com

Follow CAMO:
Facebook: Central Appalachian Mountain Overland
Instagram: @cam_overland
YouTube: Central Appalachian Mountain Outdoors

Thanks for watching. Shiny side up, muddy side down. Stay rowdy.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we break down the maintenance mindset every overlander should have before, during, and after a trip. We talk pre-trip checks, fluids, cooling systems, brakes, steering components, known failure points, trail fixes, post-trip cleaning, and the long-term stuff that keeps an old 4x4 alive.

The big idea is simple: fix problems at home, not in the woods.

We get into real examples from our own rigs, including front main seal leaks, cooling issues, mud-packed radiators, alternators, electrical trail fixes, and why ignoring small problems usually turns into a bigger bill later.

If you wheel your rig, tow with it, camp out of it, or just want to keep your old truck from turning into a pile, this one is for you.

Topics covered:

- Pre-trip overland maintenance

- What to check before leaving

- Trail-side warning signs

- Cooling stack and radiator cleaning

- Brakes, ball joints, belts, and steering parts

- Known failure items for your vehicle

- Post-trip cleaning and rust prevention

- Long-term preventative maintenance

- Why mud is the enemy

- How to keep your rig alive

Subscribe for more overland, off-road, 4x4, and adventure vehicle content from Central Appalachian Mountain Overland.

#overlandmaintenance #overlanding #offroad #4x4 #overlandtruck #vehiclemaintenance #camo #camosocial #camoutdoors

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron rant through the dumbest things happening in overlanding and off-roading right now. Bad recoveries, sketchy trail behavior, garbage aftermarket lights, half-done builds, alignment shop nightmares, oversized tire obsession, campsite bathroom disasters, and the people who absolutely refuse to take care of their rigs.

Some of it is funny. Some of it is annoying. Some of it is flat-out dangerous.

If you wheel, camp, wrench, overland, or spend way too much time staring at your truck in the driveway, you probably know exactly the people and trends we’re talking about.

Drop a comment with the overland or off-road trend that drives you insane.

Subscribe for more real-world overlanding, off-road stories, gear talk, trail lessons, and CAMO Convoy Podcast episodes.

#overlanding #offroad #4x4 #overlandpodcast #offroadrecovery #trailriding #camo_convoy #centralappalachianmountainoverland

Brandt joins the CAMO Convoy Podcast to break down his 2008 SG Subaru Forester build, including the rear locker, center diff locker, long travel suspension, HDPE skid plate setup, lightweight wheel and tire combo, spare parts strategy, and how he keeps this thing alive on real off road trails.

We get into Subaru off road culture, the difference between dirt road Subarus and truly built trail Subarus, why the 4EAT automatic actually helps without low range, how he uses left foot braking, and what makes this little Forester embarrass bigger 4x4s and Jeep guys on the trail.

If you are into weird overland builds, budget off road vehicles, Subaru Forester builds, rally inspired trail rigs, or vehicles that should not work but somehow do, this one is for you.

Topics covered:
Subaru Forester off road build
SG Forester overland build
Locked Subaru Forester
Rear locker and center diff locker
4EAT Subaru off road driving
HDPE skid plates
Long travel Subaru suspension
Subaru vs Jeep off road
Budget trail rig ideas
24 hour rally stories
CAMO trail stories

Subscribe for more overland, off road, vehicle build, trail story, and Appalachian adventure conversations from the CAMO Convoy Podcast.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we put together a real 3-day overland camping setup with a strict $200 Walmart budget. Tent, sleep setup, cooking gear, cooler, water, food, wipes, lights, fire starting, and the basic stuff you actually need to get out for a weekend in Appalachia.

We also compare some of these budget items against similar gear from REI, Bass Pro, and other big-name outdoor stores to see where the money actually matters and where people are just paying for the badge. The goal is simple: prove that overlanding is still just camping with a vehicle, and you do not need a fully built rig or Instagram gear wall to get started.

If you’ve got a truck, SUV, Subaru, minivan, or honestly anything that can get you to camp, this episode is for you.

Drop your own $200 overland gear list in the comments. What did we nail? What did we miss? What would you never cheap out on?

Follow CAMO:
Facebook: Central Appalachian Mountain Overland
Instagram: @cam_overland
Podcast: CAMO Convoy Podcast

In this episode, we break down 20 old school skills that are slowly dying out, but still matter if you spend time off road, in the woods, around trucks, or just trying to be a capable human being. We’re talking backing up without a camera, reading maps, handling first aid, staying calm when things go bad, knowing when to shut up, carrying heavy stuff, walking long distances, building fires, reading water, solving problems, and being comfortable when life gets uncomfortable.

This one is part overland talk, part life skills, part comedy, and part hard truth. Technology is awesome, but it is making a lot of people useless when the screen goes black.

Listen in and let us know what skills you think every overland man should still have.

Topics include:
Backing up on trail
Backing up trailers
Reading maps and finding north
First aid and Stop the Bleed
Staying calm in a crisis
Knowing when to turn around
Reading water crossings
Building and maintaining fire
Fitness, carrying weight, and walking distance
Being uncomfortable without falling apart
Learning from failure
Problem solving in the woods

We’re back from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and this trip had everything.

In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down the full Michigan overland trip from the drive up, the first camp at Little Brevort Lake, deep sand roads, traction board redemption, sketchy water crossings, tight trails, killer campsites, CV axle carnage, High Rock Bay, Lake Superior camping, weird rocks, Malort, bugs, bass fishing, and the long ride home.

This was one of those trips that reminded us why we do this. Good people, good rigs, rough roads, dumb ideas, useful recovery lessons, and the kind of memories you only get by actually going.

Topics include:

Michigan Upper Peninsula overlanding
Little Brevort Lake meet up
Sand roads and logging trails
Crisp Point Lighthouse attempt
Traction boards actually working
V notch recovery
Aaron’s blown CV axles
Lake Superior camp spots
Winch extension and rigging lessons
High Rock Bay route
Bass fishing and camp cooking
The ride home and road trip chaos

Go on the trip. You never know when your last one will be.

Stay rowdy.

Water is one of the most overlooked parts of overlanding, camping, and backcountry travel. Everyone remembers tires, winches, lights, recovery gear, and camp setups, but a bad water plan can ruin your trip fast.

In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we talk through drinking water, storage, filtration, cooking, cleaning, hygiene, rain, wet gear, kids, pets, and water crossings. From how much water to bring, to why one container is a bad plan, to what happens when a creek crossing gets deeper than expected, this one covers the water problems most people do not think about until they are already in them.

We also get into the prepper side of water storage, water bricks, gravity filters, questionable water sources, boiling, keeping gear dry, and why water crossings are not as harmless as they look.

Whether you are heading out for a weekend camp trip, a long overland route, or just building a better vehicle setup, water can make or break the trail.

Topics covered:
Water storage for overlanding
How much water to bring
Water filtration and purification
Cooking and cleaning with limited water
Camp hygiene
Rain and wet gear
Dry bags and contractor bags
Kids, pets, and extra water
Water crossings and vehicle safety
Trail survival basics

Welcome to the Camo Convoy Podcast, where we talk all things overland, off road, and the great outdoors.

#overlanding #offroad #camping #survival #waterfiltration #trailgear #vehiclebasedadventure #camoconvoy

We break down
Real world reliability not fanboy myths
Power differences and what you actually feel
The truth about Toyota longevity vs Nissan durability
Titan swaps vs Tacoma long travel setups
Diff strength drivetrain design and what actually matters
Manual vs automatic transmissions and why autos kill power
Aftermarket support and why it matters more than you think
What you should buy with ten thousand dollars right now

No fluff. No brand loyalty nonsense. Just two guys who have actually used this stuff calling it how it is.

Bottom line
Both trucks are good. Both have problems. But one might make more sense depending on how you actually use it.

Drop a comment
Frontier or Tacoma What are you running and why

This week, we ran Potts Mountain Jeep Trail — the one everyone calls “The Hardest Trail in the East.”

So… is it actually true?

We loaded up a group of mild builds (Frontiers, Mountaineer, 35s, mostly stock geometry) and hit the trail with zero prior experience — just reputation and expectations.

What we found might surprise you.

In this episode:

• Full breakdown of Potts Mountain from start to finish
• The hardest obstacles (and what they actually require)
• What you really need to complete the trail
• Why the difficulty might be overhyped
• Where the trail shines (and where it doesn’t)
• Trail conditions, airing down, and line choice
• Real-world performance from non-built rigs

And yeah…

• A completely unnecessary driveshaft sacrifice

If you’ve been thinking about running Potts Mountain — this is the honest version you won’t get from highlight reels.

There’s a point on every long trip where it happens…
The radio goes quiet.
Everyone’s tired.
Miles left to go.

That’s where trips either fall apart—or get way better.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with the creators of Radio Chatter, a simple idea that completely changes the way groups interact on the trail.

No tech talk.
No forced conversation.
Just real questions that actually get people talking.

We break down:

• Why “dead air” kills the vibe on long trips
• How to keep everyone engaged (even on 10+ hour days)
• The story behind Radio Chatter and how it started on real trail rides
• Why the best trips aren’t about gear—they’re about people

If you’ve ever been on a trip where the radio just… dies… this one hits.

Check out Radio Chatter:
(Insert link)

Listen to the CAMO Convoy Podcast every Monday
Overland. Off-road. The great outdoors. No BS.

Are overland clubs building the community… or slowly killing the spirit of overlanding?

Before “overlanding” had a name, people didn’t ask permission. They didn’t follow leaders. They didn’t pay to explore public land. They just went.

Now?
Clubs. Paid trips. Structured routes. “Leaders.” Rules.

So what changed?

In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down:

• What overlanding is actually supposed to be
• What makes a good club vs a bad one
• Why some clubs create dependency instead of skill
• Ego, hierarchy, and “follow the leader” culture
• Paid overland trips… when they make sense and when they don’t
• How clubs can either grow or completely kill the adventure

This isn’t a hit piece.
We run a club. We believe in community.

But we’re calling out the problems no one wants to talk about.

Because if your trip works perfectly without problem solving…
it might not be overlanding anymore.

Instead of arguing opinions, we built our own scoring system: the CAMO Vehicle Capability Index (VCI). This breaks down articulation, traction, reliability, stability, load capacity, and more to actually measure how capable each vehicle is on the trail.

Some vehicles you think are unbeatable… aren’t.
And some you’d never consider… absolutely hold their own.

If you think you know the best overland rigs by price — you’re probably wrong.

🧠 What’s in this episode:

• $5K “beater” overland showdown
• $10K real world builds (Tacoma vs Frontier)
• $20K heavy hitters (Jeep vs FJ Cruiser)
• New school rigs vs old school simplicity
• Data driven comparison using the CAMO VCI
• Side by side capability breakdowns

🔧 Vehicles featured:

• 1st Gen Toyota RAV4 (Manual)
• 1st Gen Nissan Xterra
• 1st Gen Toyota Tacoma
• Nissan Frontier Pro-4X
• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
• Toyota FJ Cruiser
• Ford Ranger Raptor
• Ineos Grenadier
• Jeep Wagoneer SJ
• Mercedes Zetros

⚙️ What is the CAMO VCI?

A custom built scoring system designed to remove bias and compare vehicles based on what actually matters in overlanding:

• Articulation
• Traction
• Reliability
• Stability
• Load Utility
• Range
• Repairability

No brand loyalty. No guessing. Just data.

🎙 CAMO Convoy Podcast

We talk overland, off road, builds, gear, and real world experience — not influencer nonsense.

👇 Drop your pick below

What would YOU choose at each price point?

🔔 Subscribe for more:

Overland routes
Vehicle breakdowns
Build strategies
Real world testing

🏷 Tags

overland vehicles, overlanding, off road vehicles, best overland vehicle, budget overland build, tacoma vs frontier, jeep vs fj cruiser, ranger raptor review, ineos grenadier review, overland truck build, off road comparison, 4x4 vehicles

Two off roaders were reported missing near Dayton Virginia while wheeling in the George Washington National Forest around Peters Mill Run and Flagpole Knob.

A Facebook post quickly spread through the off road community and things escalated fast. Dozens of overlanders began mobilizing, the sheriff was contacted, search and rescue was activated, and even a private aircraft launched to help search the area.

There was just one problem.

The two Jeepers were not actually missing.

They had simply decided to camp and had no idea that a massive search effort had started for them.

In this episode we break down exactly what happened, the debate that followed in the off road community, and the important lessons that come from situations like this.

We also dive into something that most off roaders never think about until it is too late: communication planning.

We discuss best practices for avoiding situations like this and go deep into the different communication tools available for remote travel including:

Cell phones and why they fail in the mountains
Cell boosters such as WeBoost
GMRS, HAM, and CB radios
Satellite messengers like Garmin InReach and Zoleo
Starlink for remote connectivity
Personal locator beacons for emergencies

If you spend time off road, overlanding, camping, or exploring remote areas, having a communication plan is just as important as recovery gear.

This episode is not about blaming anyone. It is about learning from a real situation and making sure something like this does not happen again.

Let us know your thoughts.

How long should someone wait before reporting off roaders missing?

Listen To The CAMO Convoy Podcast

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Central Appalachian Mountain Overland

Join the community and come explore the backroads with us.

What do you actually keep in your truck?

In this episode we break down Vehicle EDC for the Overland Prepper. This is the gear that lives in the truck full time the stuff that handles breakdowns, trail repairs, recovery situations, and the unexpected problems you run into long before you ever reach a trailhead.

Most overland conversations focus on camping setups and rooftop tents. But the reality is most problems happen on the road or miles from help, and that is where vehicle EDC matters.

We go through the recovery gear, tools, spare parts, and emergency equipment that stay in the truck at all times. Whether you consider yourself an overlander, prepper, or just someone who spends a lot of time traveling remote roads, this is the gear that keeps you moving when things go sideways.

What started as a small regional rally has grown into a legitimate endurance competition attracting serious drivers, national attention, and real economic impact for Appalachian communities.

We break down:
• How 24 Hours of Appalachia was built from the ground up
• The vision behind Backroads of Appalachia
• What makes this rally different from everything else
• The future of East Coast off road and rally racing
• What competitors NEED to understand before showing up

This isn’t just racing.
It’s movement, culture, and a new chapter for motorsports in Appalachia.

If you care about overland, off road, rally, or the future of grassroots motorsports in America — this episode matters.

Subscribe for more conversations on overland, off road, and the great outdoors.

OUR STUFF

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If you think more lumens means better lighting… this episode might hurt a little.

In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down why most overlanders are setting up their off road lights wrong.

We cover:

• Light zones and how to properly layer your lighting
• Beam patterns and why combo beams can lead to a mistake
• LED vs halogen performance and eye fatigue
• Why roof lights can are a bad idea if you pick the wrong light
• How desert racing lighting setups differ from trail driving
• Color temperature, amber vs white, and what your eyes actually prefer
• When too much light becomes a liability
• Basic wiring considerations and electrical load

Overlanding is not desert racing.
If you are crawling tight Appalachian back roads at night, you do not need a Baja trophy truck light bar blasting 600 yards into the woods.

This episode is about designing a lighting system that actually works for how you drive.

Whether you run ditch lights, roof bars, amber floods, halogens, or LEDs, this conversation will make you rethink your setup.

If you care about functional gear instead of just bolting on more lights, this one is for you.

Subscribe for weekly overland talk, trail stories, gear breakdowns, and real world testing.

NEW MERCH!

THE CAMP TONNEAU TENT

Rooftop tents have dominated the overland world for years.

But are they still the best option?

Today we compare a traditional RTT mounted on a bed rack versus the new Camp Tonneau truck bed tent system. Weight. Cost. Setup time. Center of gravity. Real world practicality.

No brand bias. No fluff.

Just the pros and cons of both setups so you can decide for yourself.

So… which one would you run?

Drop your pick in the comments.

ALL OUR STUFF --> CLICK HERE!

Ever wonder why rigs catch fire after a “simple” wiring job?

This episode kicks off Don’t BBQ Your Rig, a no BS breakdown of 12V electrical basics for trucks and overland rigs. No diagrams you can’t read, no electrical engineering degree required, and no pretending bad wiring is “good enough.”

We break down electrical loads in plain language and explain why wires melt, fuses pop, and accessories stop working when people start stacking lights, radios, compressors, and chargers without thinking it through.

We cover:

• What electrical load actually means in real world terms
• Low, medium, and high demand accessories
• Why amperage is what kills wiring, not voltage
• Why voltage is just electrical pressure
• Why wire size matters more than most people think
• Common lighting and accessory wiring mistakes
• The race level correct way to connect power and ground
• Why you can’t shove 200 amps through tiny wire without consequences

If you’ve added lights, radios, a winch, an air compressor, or a power bank to your truck, this is the episode that keeps you from cooking your wiring harness and learning the hard way.

This isn’t about being fancy.

It’s about keeping your rig running and not turning it into a rolling campfire

We cover:

• How MBM Fab started and why Max builds everything himself
• The origin story of the Kia Sportage “Desert Rat” Gambler build
• Fabrication philosophy: sliders, bumpers, TIG welding, roll cages, and why OEM cross-compatibility matters
• Max’s GMC Sierra 2500 HD flatbed camper build and Aussie-inspired design choices
• Overlanding vs car camping and why the argument misses the point
• Real talk on 24-hour rallies, fatigue, seat choice, and vehicle prep
• Favorite builds, worst ideas, and why projects always snowball
• Winter storm prep, power outages, and cold-weather lessons learned the hard way
• The debut of a new segment: The Doom Scroll (Marketplace finds that should not exist)

This one’s heavy on shop talk, light on polish, and full of the kind of stories that only happen when you build weird stuff, drive it hard, and live with the consequences.

👉 Follow MBM Fab for custom fabrication, off-road builds, and no-nonsense metal work
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People We Like:

Nature Reliance School

North American Rescue

Blue Ridge Overland

Most overlanders are prepared for vehicle failure, not medical emergencies.
In this episode, we break down why being your own rescue is a non negotiable mindset when traveling remotely.

Most people spend more time obsessing over roof racks, traction boards, and gear than they do thinking about what happens when someone actually gets hurt in the middle of nowhere.

In this episode, we dig into the reality of overlanding medical risk and why every traveler needs to be prepared to be their own rescue. Drawing from firsthand experience on high consequence trails and years of emergency medicine and trauma work, we break down what really goes wrong in the backcountry and what actually matters when help is hours or days away.

We cover the difference between Hollywood trauma and real world injuries, why dehydration and poor personal health lead to bad decisions on the trail, and how small problems like cuts, infections, sprains, and heat or cold exposure can quietly turn into serious emergencies if ignored. We also talk about bleeding control, tourniquet use, wound care, environmental exposure, and why training and knowledge matter more than owning the coolest gear.

The conversation also dives into solo travel risks, medical disclosure within groups, managing chronic conditions in remote environments, and the importance of communication when cell service disappears. From GMRS radios to satellite communicators, we discuss how to plan exits, call it early when things start stacking up, and avoid letting ego put you or your group in danger.

This episode is not about fear. It’s about responsibility. If you travel off pavement, you owe it to yourself and the people with you to be medically prepared, mentally aware, and honest about your limits.

Be your own rescue.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Sapan, president of the Mid Atlantic Rivian Club and former Land Rover mechanical engineer, to talk about overlanding with an electric vehicle.

We dig into what actually works, what does not, and how the Rivian platform changes the overland experience. From adjustable suspension and camp mode to real world trail use, charging concerns, and community building, this is not a press release episode. It is a reality check.

We cover:
• What got Sapan into overlanding
• Why he chose a Rivian over traditional platforms
• Real off road capability and suspension tech
• Camp mode and trail usability
• EV limitations nobody wants to talk about
• How the Rivian community is shaping modern overlanding

This episode is for anyone curious about EVs, skeptical of them, or already running one off pavement.

CAMO Convoy Podcast is about real experience, not Instagram builds.

In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various aspects of work-life balance, personal projects, and the essentials of building the best overland vehicle. They share insights on navigating work challenges, the importance of understanding vehicle capabilities, and the significance of quality modifications. The discussion also touches on recent automotive news, including Toyota's innovations, and the ongoing debate between manual and automatic transmissions in the context of overlanding. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss various aspects of overlanding, focusing on vehicle modifications, the importance of throttle response, and the evolution of vehicle design. They emphasize the significance of driver skill, maintenance, and the lessons learned from their experiences on the road. The discussion also covers the best factory overlanders, the importance of lighting, and practical tips for modifications, including the use of wheel spacers and skid plates.

In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various work challenges, including scheduling issues and job frustrations. They share personal stories and experiences related to their work and vehicle modifications. The discussion also touches on the history of Camo Central Appalachian Mountain Overland, notable encounters, and the importance of documenting their journey. The conversation highlights the connection between personal experiences and the broader community, emphasizing the excitement and uncertainty of future plans. In this engaging conversation, Nick and Aaron share their experiences and adventures in off-roading, discussing the sense of freedom it brings, the community it fosters, and the challenges faced along the way. They reflect on memorable trips, the importance of preparation, and the joy of exploration, all while highlighting the camaraderie that develops among off-road enthusiasts. The discussion also touches on personal growth through these adventures and the thrill of long-distance driving. In this segment, Aaron Mizell shares his journey from childhood through high school and into the automotive world, highlighting the challenges he faced, the mentors who influenced him, and his passion for mechanics and racing. He discusses his early interests in cars, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of hands-on learning experiences. Aaron reflects on his education, the SkillsUSA competition that led him to meet his wife, and his time in North Carolina pursuing a career in NASCAR. He also addresses the challenges of finding his place in the automotive industry and the valuable lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell shares his journey through various career transitions, reflecting on the challenges he faced and the physical toll of his work. He discusses his desire for a management role and the importance of mentorship. The conversation also delves into personal challenges, including potential ADHD, and how childhood experiences shaped their perspectives. The discussion shifts to the off-roading scene in Pennsylvania, highlighting the difficulties in finding accessible trails and the need for community involvement. Finally, they offer advice for newcomers to off-roading, emphasizing the importance of getting out and exploring without the pressure of extensive modifications.

bio.site/camoconvoy

In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, hosts Nick and Aaron welcome Chad Kulig, General Manager of All Dogs Off Road, to discuss the unique co-op business model of their company, the intricacies of off-roading and overlanding, and the importance of community in the automotive enthusiast space. They delve into Aaron's Tacoma build journey, the innovations in suspension technology, and the trends in overlanding modifications. The conversation also touches on the challenges of the off-road community, the significance of budgeting for modifications, and the future plans for All Dogs Off Road. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of off-roading and overlanding, including the costs associated with custom armor, dream vehicle builds, and the importance of mentorship in the community. They share personal experiences and lessons learned from their journeys, emphasizing the significance of cooking and community during camping trips. The discussion also touches on the worst factory four-wheel drives and tires, essential tools for off-roading, and valuable tech tips for vehicle maintenance.

We bounce back and forth with rapid-fire picks, why each item matters on trail, and the small upgrades that make a huge difference. Shorter episode this week to boost retention and reach even more of the CAMO community before next week’s big guest episode.

We also reveal CAMO’s January trip:
M.O.T.H.M.A.N. — Mid January Overland Test of Human Misery And Numbness

Links:

GIFT LIST UNDER 200

Wavian 20L Steel Jerry Can
https://www.alldogsoffroad.com/wavian-steel-nato-jerry-gas-can-53-gallons-20l

Capless Fuel System Emergency Funnels (2 Pack)
https://amzn.to/4o5eVXN

Harbor Freight 20V Ultra Torque 1/2" Impact Driver
https://www.harborfreight.com/20v-brushless-cordless-12-in-ultra-torque-impact-wrench-with-friction-ring-tool-only-58887.html

Differential Breather Relocation Kits (Search by vehicle)
Google: “Differential Breather Relocation Kit + year make model”

ARB Tire Kit Bundle (Deflator + Repair Kit + Digital Chuck)
https://a.co/d/4xxDunE

Badlands APEX Snatch Block
https://www.harborfreight.com/apex-30-ton-snatch-block-57674.html
Badlands Tree Saver Strap
https://www.harborfreight.com/3-in-x-8-ft-tree-saver-strap-62479.html
Badlands Soft Shackles (x2)
https://www.harborfreight.com/7800-lb-capacity-apex-soft-shackle-58268.html
Badlands Bow Shackle
https://www.harborfreight.com/9-000-lb-capacity-d-ring-bow-shackle-62785.html

AARON’S PICKS

Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner (2 Pack)
https://amzn.to/49KkQhB

Stainless Mesh Packable Fire Pit
https://amzn.to/4r8IR8a

Rear Chase Light Bar
https://amzn.to/3JVlpum

Bluetooth Diesel Heater (Hcalory / Vevor style)
https://amzn.to/4nZymRT

Radiator Washout Wand
https://amzn.to/3KdsAOu

MERCH: camoutdoors.printify.me

CAMO SWAG: https://camoutdoors.printify.me

FIND OUR MERCH HERE! https://camoutdoors.printify.me/

Kentucky trip, off-road, photography, winching, recovery techniques, spotting, communication, kinetic ropes, recovery points, vehicle safety, off-roading, winch recovery, safety, synthetic rope, steel cable, snatch blocks, water crossings, vehicle recovery, outdoor adventure, off-road equipment, off-roading, recovery gear, safety tips, water crossings, solo exploration, winching techniques, outdoor adventure, vehicle recovery, off-road safety, adventure preparedness

Takeaways

Using a trip to build a photography portfolio is a great idea.

Communication is key when planning a group trip.

Spotters are essential for safe off-roading.

Kinetic ropes can be dangerous if misused.

Always use rated recovery points for safety.

Avoid using unibody vehicles for heavy recoveries.

Spectators can slow down the recovery process.

Planning ahead can prevent getting stuck.

Understanding vehicle dynamics is crucial for recovery.

Safety should always come first in off-roading. Don't buy cheap structural components for off-roading.

Winch recovery requires careful planning and communication.

Safety is paramount during winching operations.

Steel cable has advantages over synthetic rope in durability.

Always maintain tension on winch cables to prevent bird nesting.

Understand the duty cycle of your winch to avoid overheating.

Snatch blocks can double your pulling power effectively.

Water crossings require careful assessment of conditions.

Differential breathers should be upgraded for water crossings.

Proper equipment maintenance is crucial for safe off-roading. Always assess visible obstacles before proceeding.

Muddy water can indicate dangerous conditions.

Solo exploration can be safe if precautions are taken.

Communicate your plans to someone before going out alone.

Keep your window open and seatbelt off during water crossings.

Recovery gear should be inspected regularly.

Unique recovery techniques can be effective in tricky situations.

A multi-tool is essential for off-road adventures.

Don't rely solely on winches for towing.

Salt can severely damage your vehicle's components.

Summary

In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss their upcoming trip to Kentucky, focusing on the importance of planning, photography, and safety in off-roading. They delve into the significance of having spotters, effective communication, and the use of recovery techniques and equipment, including kinetic ropes and recovery points. The discussion emphasizes the need for safety and preparation to ensure a successful and enjoyable off-road experience. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss essential safety practices and techniques for off-roading, focusing on winch recovery, the pros and cons of different winch types, and the importance of proper equipment maintenance. They emphasize the need for careful planning during recovery operations, especially in challenging conditions like water crossings. The discussion also covers the significance of understanding winch specifications and the effective use of snatch blocks to enhance recovery efforts. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss various aspects of off-roading, focusing on safety, recovery techniques, and the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating obstacles, the risks of solo exploration, and the essential gear needed for recovery. The discussion emphasizes the significance of safety precautions, especially when crossing water, and the necessity of inspecting and maintaining recovery equipment. They also touch on unique recovery methods and the importance of understanding winch limitations.