If you’ve checked in at a recent Overland Expo, chances are Arvin Monarrez was there to help you get settled into your campsite or exhibitor spot. With his warm smile, Arvin welcomes thousands of Overland Expo community members, setting the tone for the weekend and playing a vital role in keeping our event running smoothly from start to finish. As we continue our Community Spotlight series, we’re excited to share more about Arvin’s passion for overlanding, quality gear, and memorable adventures.
OE: Tell us a bit more about yourself. What are you up to when you aren’t at Overland Expo?
AM: My home base is in Southern California. I am a weekend warrior overlander and car camper.
I love traveling the country whenever I can with my Boston Terrier and my girlfriend. My favorite vacations involve traveling to new towns and exploring new eateries to get ideas for outdoor cooking. It’s always so exciting to find new flavors to experiment with. My hobbies include playing guitar, video editing, ping pong, and of course cooking.
OE: And, how did you initially become involved in Overland Expo?
AM: I have always enjoyed being part of something that connects communities together. Initially, I became involved with the Overland Expo by volunteering, and when the opportunity arose, I quickly jumped on board. I think being part of a community with so many like-minded individuals was more than enough to stick around. Not to mention just how immersive the event is.
Since I’ve signed on, the expo has grown tremendously. Things have shifted in such a way that it’s hard to fathom just how immensely the community has grown.
OE: Obviously, we all have at least a bit of a gearhead mentality here at Overland Expo. Tell us about your rig.
AM: I drive a white 2016 short bed Toyota Tacoma SR5! With its Toyo shoes and 16-inch Method wheels. I sleep on an iKamper rooftop tent with a 270 awning that works like a charm. I also have a little gas-powered mini bike. I call it the Frankenstein build because it’s not only a little monster of a thing, but It’s been built with different parts throughout the years. It’s currently being transformed into an electric mini bike!
OE: It’s a great rig! What is one piece of gear you cannot live without?
AM: One piece of gear I cannot live without is my gear management box. It’s by Kitworks. It is such a fantastic product and does exactly what I need it to. All my gear is managed and organized exactly the way I need it to be. This way, I never have to worry about where anything is. It’s a great little system.
OE: Over the years, what’s your favorite thing you’ve seen at Overland Expo?
AM: Over the years here at Overland Expo, I’ve noticed that the number 1 thing I always look forward to seeing is the community. Everyone is so passionate about this lifestyle that being surrounded by like-minded people continues to bring me back.
OE: When you’re not at an event, do you have a favorite spot to get away from it all?
AM: Every year since graduating high school, my friends and I have always made an effort to reunite at this most amazing spot in Sequoia National Park. It was my first camping trip as well, so it holds a special place in my heart.
OE: Any plans for upcoming trips?
AM: Yes! I actually am currently planning a couple trips to kickstart summer. One of the main ones is Big Sur! And perhaps the Grand Canyon. All increasingly exciting!
OE: If you had one piece of advice for someone getting started, what would it be?
AM: If I had to give anyone any advice on getting started, it would be to not get so hung up on having the perfect setup. It’s not about how much you have but what you’re looking for out there in the wild. I remember camping when I was younger with all my friends, and we barely had anything. Best time of my life! Focus on experiencing the outdoors in your own style, and you will know what specific gear you need for your setup. It took me years to get to where I am, but not once did I allow myself to feel deterred because of what I had or didn’t. When the wild called, it was enough.
OE: Before we wrap it up, can you tell us your favorite Overland Expo memory?
AM: Every year and every event I’ve been to gives me memories I will always cherish. That being said, my very first expo holds a permanent place in my heart. I remember signing up to volunteer without knowing what to expect. Yet, driving seven hours up to Flagstaff for the first time and meeting the crew was and is, to this day, my most fond memory. I barely made it in time for my shift, and I was so nervous, but everyone was so welcoming and allowed me to learn without judgment.
