Have you ever wondered why so many people exit the overlanding community after just a couple of years? Despite the explosion of overlanding content on social media and the apparent accessibility of the hobby, most enthusiasts quietly disappear before they've truly established themselves in the lifestyle.
Drawing from two decades of overlanding experience, I dive deep into this fascinating phenomenon. The harsh reality is that building competence in this hobby takes significantly more time than most are willing or able to commit. Between life changes, financial considerations, and the stark difference between Instagram-worthy moments and the long, sometimes tedious reality of travel and camp setup, many enthusiasts find themselves unable to sustain their initial enthusiasm.
What's particularly challenging is the disconnect between where experienced overlanders are now and where they started. Standing next to my fully-equipped Tacoma with years of knowledge and specialized gear, I recognize how intimidating this can be for newcomers who mistakenly believe they need to replicate my setup from day one. The truth? I started with a basic bivvy sack in the desert before gradually building my skills and gear collection over many years.
For those determined to break the cycle of early abandonment, the secret isn't in acquiring the right gear—it's in prioritizing experience over equipment. A simple setup with a ground tent, sleeping bag, cooler, and basic cooking equipment is more than enough to begin this journey. The most valuable insights come from time on the trail, not from browsing overlanding catalogs or social media feeds.
Want to make overlanding a sustainable part of your life? Start with what you have, focus on building skills rather than acquiring gear, and approach the hobby with patience. The most rewarding aspects of this lifestyle emerge only after pushing through those crucial early years that so many never survive.
