Building a Budget Overlanding Rig: Essentials Without Breaking the Ban

Overlanding, Vehicle-based adventure travel—has seen a surge in popularity as more people seek to explore the great outdoors. While social media may be flooded with high-end, fully built-out rigs, the good news is you don’t need a $100,000 setup to start your Overlanding journey. With the right plan, vehicle choice, and gear, you can build a capable and reliable overland vehicle on a budget.

One of the number one things is to get out and let the experiences dictate what you might need. Don’t just buy something because an influencer has it.

While you might see a lot of high-end builds coming out of TAV we also have options for those who just want a better ride out of their vehicle while still being able to get to remote spots. Check out our Rec Spec option for suspension if this interests you.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Vehicle

Start with what you have. One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need a brand-new 4x4 to get into Overlanding. In reality, many older models are more than capable—and often simpler to maintain. Look for vehicles known for reliability, aftermarket support, and off-road capability. Some budget-friendly options include:

Toyota 4Runner (3rd or 4th gen)
Jeep Cherokee XJ or Wrangler
Subaru Outback (for light-duty Overlanding)
Nissan Xterra
Ford Ranger (older models)
Honda CR-V or Element (with all-wheel drive, for soft-roading)
Ford Bronco

Pro Tip: Prioritize a solid drivetrain and clean mechanical history over cosmetic condition.

Step 2: Tires First, Always

Before diving into mods, upgrade your tires. Tires are your vehicle’s connection to the terrain and have a massive impact on traction, ride comfort, and off-road ability.

Recommended tire types:

All-Terrain (A/T) for a balance between road and trail
Mud-Terrain (M/T) if you plan to tackle more aggressive terrain

Brands like Toyo (Our go-to) Falken Wildpeak A/T3W, BFGoodrich KO3, and General Grabber A/TX offer great performance. This is something that you do not want to skimp on. Avoid no-name brands you find on Ebay or other websites.

Step 3: Suspension and Ground Clearance

While some vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Tacoma, or 4Runner, and the good old Ford Ranger, have decent suspension from the factory, you can get a better ride from a small suspension upgrade. Look at brands that have a good reputation. For our Rec Spec we utilize the Fox Performance Series as we believe these give you the best ride for an economy budget.

There are other cheaper options on the market, but not ones that we would recommend.

Step 4: Sleeping and Shelter

You don’t need a rooftop tent to sleep comfortably. Start with:

Ground tent: A quality four-season tent like the REI Co-op Passage or Coleman Sundome can cost under $150.
Sleeping pad or cot: Inflatable or foam pads work great. Look for R-value if camping in colder temps.
Vehicle-based sleeping: Fold-down seats and a custom sleeping platform in the back can turn your SUV into a mini camper.

Step 5: Storage and Organization

Overlanding means bringing your gear with you, so organization is key. Affordable storage solutions include:

Plastic bins (e.g., ActionPacker or Sterilite)
DIY drawer systems with plywood and slides
Roof baskets (from CURT or Rola) if you need extra space

Avoid overpacking; weight is the enemy of off-road capability.

Step 6: Power

Portable power station: Jackery or Eco Flo units can charge phones, laptops, and small appliances.

Step 7: Cooking and Water

Simple and effective is the name of the game:

Camp stove: A classic Coleman two-burner or single-burner butane stove
Water storage: 5–7 gallon jugs are affordable and easy to transport
Cooler: Start with a quality cooler like Igloo BMX or Coleman Xtreme. Upgrade to a fridge down the road.

Step 8: Recovery Gear

Even on a budget, don’t skimp on safety:

Recovery straps and shackles
Shovel
Tire repair kit
Portable air compressor
Traction boards

If your vehicle has recovery points, you’re already ahead of the game.

Step 9: Navigation and Communication

Forget paper maps—well, maybe bring one just in case—but also set yourself up with:

Offline maps app: Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Google Maps offline
Phone mount
Two-way radios: Affordable GMRS or FRS radios improve trail communication

Final Thoughts: Experience Over Equipment

Remember, Overlanding is about the journey, not the gear. It’s okay to start small. Focus on the essentials, upgrade as you go, and let your experience guide your purchases. The best rig is the one you use—and the one that gets you out there. Building a budget overland rig is definitely achievable with a little creativity and resourcefulness. One great strategy is to shop at REI’s Gear Garage Sales, where you can find lightly used or returned gear at a fraction of the original price. Swap meets are another goldmine for scoring affordable equipment, often allowing you to haggle for even better deals. For inspiration and tips, attending an Overland Expo can be incredibly valuable—not just for the vendors and seminars, but especially for walking through the attendee campgrounds. Many overlanders are proud to show off their rigs and DIY projects, and most are more than happy to share how they built their setups on a budget. Talking to other enthusiasts is not only inspiring but can also help you avoid common pitfalls and spark new ideas for your own build.

So, build smart, pack light, and hit the trail. Adventure is waiting.

Building a Budget Overlanding Rig: Essentials Without Breaking the Bank