Summer weather is just around the corner. This month we have a curated list of companies and products aimed at equipping your summer overlanding adventures. We have a host of recommendations from skid plates to tires to first aid as well as a host of other gear to take on your trips this summer.
CBI Offroad — Skidplates
CBI Offroad understands that venturing into the backcountry demands complete protection for your vehicle’s vital systems. Their skid plates are engineered as a comprehensive defense against challenging terrain. Crafted from robust steel or lightweight, high-strength aluminum, these precision-engineered skids provide a tailored fit for a wide range of vehicles. This ensures formidable protection for critical components such as the engine oil pan, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank, safeguarding them from damage caused by rocks, logs, and other trail obstacles. Recognizing a frequently overlooked area, CBI also offers dedicated lower control arm skids. These crucial additions shield your suspension components from bending or impact damage, which can severely compromise off-road capability on demanding trails.
CBI skid plates are designed for both strength and practicality. Installation is streamlined by utilizing existing factory mounting points. Thoughtful features, such as integrated access ports for oil changes, allow for easy maintenance without removing the entire skid. The low-profile design of these skid plates ensures minimal reduction in crucial ground clearance, preserving your vehicle’s off-road prowess.
By investing in CBI’s Skid Plates, overlanders gain unparalleled peace of mind. This comprehensive undercarriage armor allows you to confidently navigate summer trails and explore further without the worry of costly damage. CBI Offroad’s commitment to quality and durability ensures your adventures remain focused on the journey itself, knowing your vehicle is thoroughly protected.
Starting at $150
Daylodge Gear — Workspace Camp Kitchen
In the world of outdoor gear, the Daylodge Workspace Camp Kitchen stands out as a versatile, compact and portable companion for adventurers. Designed for campers and overlanders, this unique patent pending bag redefines portability with its ability to transform into a fully functional work area. Made from tough TPU and 1200D it is water and dust resistant. This bag redefines organized, usable space while on the go. Its rugged material ensures durability while its smart design has a spot for everything in your camp kitchen.
The Workspace’s genius lies in its integrated 12″ x 18″ bamboo cutting board, which unfolds to create a sturdy prep surface. Mount it to your vehicle or use it on a flat surface. This bag is ideal for campsites, truck beds, or picnic areas. Inside, it boasts a utensil or tool panel, a tray or bottle/cup organizer, storage pockets and sleeves for keeping cookware, tools, or even barware neatly arranged. Workspace includes standard vehicle setup accessories and FlexMount options, allowing it to attach to vehicles like SUVs, trucks, jeeps or vans with ease. Optional backpack straps allow you to take a kitchen and setup basecamp at the beach or remote spot for the day.
Outdoor enthusiasts rave about its practicality. One user described it as “a game-changer for camp cooking,” citing the organized storage for knives, spices, and stove components. Another praised its versatility, noting, “It’s my go-to for everything from meal prep to setting up a mobile coffee station.” The 2025 Gen 2 version introduces lighter materials, ergonomic handles, and compatible accessories like the Cold Cube cooler and Stash storage containers, enhancing its appeal.
Whether used for chopping vegetables, mixing cocktails, serving as a makeshift desk or mechanics station, the Workspace Camp Kitchen adapts effortlessly. Its blend of durability, thoughtful organization, and innovative design makes it an indispensable and versatile tool for those who crave adventure without sacrificing organization and functionality.
MSRP: $275.00
Guild Outfitters — Ultimate Dual Color Map Light Upgrade Kit for Ford Vehicles
Considering how many Americans Overland or use their Ford vehicle as their 2nd home it is woefully insufficient that the OEM map lights are just 1 singular led per side. To fix this, Guild Outfitters spent the last 2 years working on a true plug & play kit to fix this. Whether you are a new Bronco overlander or a full-time Ford explorer!
Guild Outfitter’s Ultimate Dual Color Map Light Upgrade Kit takes your interior map lighting from “Where did I drop my trail mix?” to 12 LEDs shining on the last peanut! If you just need to hop in & get warm while stargazing though the kit features toggle for red LEDs to help maintain your night vision!
The absolute best part of this kit is that it does not require any cutting, splicing, drilling, or feeding wires into the headliner. It even includes a trim removal tool and the 2 precision torx allen keys needed to perform the installation in 15-30 minutes depending on the steps for your vehicle/ trim.
So, if you are tired of squinting or stumbling in the dark check out this kit and stay sharp after sundown by preserving your night vision with the red light. The subtle glow really makes a big impact because bugs hate it. Red light keeps the critters away, so you can enjoy your evening without unwelcome guests in the cab.
The kit fits the following year Ford vehicles:
- 2021+ Bronco (full size)
- 2020+ Ford Explorer*
- 2021+ Ford F150*
- 2021+ Ford F150 Raptor*
- 2023+ Ford F250 – F350*
- 2024+ Lincoln Nautilus*
- 2020+ Lincoln Aviator*
- 2021+ Ford Mustang Mach-E*
*If your vehicle has a sunroof/ panoramic roof controls just unsnap the center plastic filler from the kit.
MSRP: $199.99
READ MORE: Overland Expo 2025 Educational Programming Overview
heat it — Insect Bite Healer
The Road Less Traveled—Without the Itch
Out on the trail, even the most well-equipped rigs can’t outrun bug bites. Whether crossing the saguaro shadows of Arizona, winding along muddy Colorado switchbacks, navigating rain-soaked logging roads in the Pacific Northwest, or camping far off the grid, mosquitoes, flies, chiggers, and wasps always seem to find a way. One compact tool is quickly earning its place in builds across the country: heat it.
Engineered in Germany and purpose-built for rugged travel, heat it is the world’s first smartphone-powered insect bite relief device. Compact, durable, and highly effective, it uses clean, concentrated heat—clinically proven to reduce itching by 81%—to stop irritation before it derails the journey. No chemicals. No creams. No batteries. No waste. Just plug into a smartphone, open the app, and apply. Relief in seconds.
Weighing less than a tenth of an ounce and smaller than a sugar cube, the patented heat it clips easily to a pack strap, MOLLE loop, or keychain. It’s safe for kids aged 3+ with 12 customizable settings and functions entirely offline—no signal, sunlight, or external power required other than a charged smartphone.
With over 1 million users and a 4.8/5.0 rating, heat it is trusted by weekend warriors and full-time overlanders alike. From the Rockies to the Redwoods, from Utah dust to Carolina mud, this is one tool that earns its spot in the kit.
Priced at just $39.95 and backed by a 100-day risk-free trial, it’s a smart addition to any serious overland loadout.
Because hundreds of miles from help, gear doesn’t get second chances.
heat it works—every time.
MSRP: $39.95
KC HiLiTES — Product: Platform One
Platform One is more than a roof rack — it’s the launchpad for every off-road journey and backcountry escape. Designed by KC to meet the demands of long-range travel and rugged trails, Platform One sets a new standard for adventure gear. With full-length, precision-cut side rails and a clean, modular profile, it brings a seamless blend of durability, functionality, and striking design to any vehicle it rides atop. Every element, from flush-mount side lighting to rugged construction, is built with the adventurer in mind, offering a system that works hard and looks good doing it.
At its core, Platform One is about integration and adaptability. Its Power-Ready design ensures easy wire management and supports off-grid power needs right out of the box, making it easier than ever to run lights, fridges, and other essential gear. The top deck is fully adjustable, while the slotted side mounts offer flexible configurations, allowing users to carry rooftop storage, mount gear, or outfit their rig for any kind of expedition. Lighting is seamlessly incorporated into the system, with options for integrated overhead and side lights that can illuminate campsites, trails, and workspaces at a moment’s notice.
Platform One is built for those who live off the grid and need equipment that can keep up. Its rugged construction ensures longevity across thousands of miles of punishing terrain, while its sleek profile elevates the vehicle’s look without compromising on strength. Slated for a full reveal on May 15th, 2025, Platform One is set to redefine what a roof rack can be. Early access and an in-person demo will kick off at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona, where adventurers can experience firsthand the power and possibility of KC’s next-generation platform.
Sign up to be the first to see the full reveal and get early access when it goes on sale this summer. Or catch it in person at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, AZ.
Learn more: https://www.kchilites.com/families/platform-one
MidlandUSA — Mini External Speaker – SPKMINI
New! Launching on midlandusa.com May 14
When you’re deep in the backcountry or winding through a rocky trail in your rig, every bit of gear needs to work hard without taking up too much space. That’s where Midland’s new Mini External Speaker, the SPKMINI, comes in—delivering high-powered audio performance in a compact, durable package made for the demands of overlanding and off-road adventures.
Built to punch through the background noise that often comes with open-air vehicles like UTVs, ATVs, and SxSs, the SPKMINI offers clear, dynamic sound output with 10 Watts of power and 8 Ohm. Whether you’re navigating tight switchbacks or cruising remote forest roads, this speaker ensures that your radio communications come through loud and clear—so no more missing key directions or updates from your convoy.
Designed specifically for the kind of environments overlanders thrive in, the SPKMINI boasts an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. That means it stands up to the mud, moisture, and trail dust that inevitably come with off-roading. Mount it in your cab, dash, roll cage, or anywhere space allows—its low-profile design and 180-degree adjustable bracket offer maximum versatility without cluttering your setup.
The SPKMINI’s 3.5 mm standard audio plug makes it universally compatible with all Midland MXT MicroMobiles, CB radios, and other two-way radios. The included 6.5 ft heavy-duty cable gives plenty of length to route cleanly through your vehicle, no matter your layout or setup.
Compact at just 4.5″ x 3″ x 2″, this speaker was built for life on the move—whether you’re carving through sand dunes or navigating a multi-day overlanding trip with a crew. From calling out waypoints to coordinating roadside assistance or trail repairs, the SPKMINI helps ensure every message gets through clearly, improving safety, coordination, and peace of mind on any off-grid journey.
The SPKMINI isn’t just for the trails, either. With the same tough design and performance, it’s ideal for RV travelers and marine adventures where communication is critical and noise levels run high.
So mini, you can mount it anywhere. So powerful, you’ll never miss a word.
MSRP: $49.99
Nokian Tyres — Outpost nAT
Overlanders need equipment that’s ready to meet the demands of their most extreme journeys. Nokian Tyres crafts an all-terrain tire forged to help overlanders Extend Their Adventures to the furthest outposts.
Meet the Nokian Tyres Outpost nAT. It’s tailored to meet the challenges of North America’s roughest terrain. In fact, “nAT” stands for “North American tire.”
The Nokian Tyres Outpost nAT comes with a Pothole Protection program and it’s reinforced with puncture-resistant Aramid fibers, the same material used in protective vests. If drivers damage a tire beyond repair due to a pothole or road hazard, the company will replace it at no charge. *
Headed for rough off-road conditions? The Nokian Tyres Outpost nAT is infused with Aramid in its sidewalls and beneath its tread for ultimate puncture resistance. Sharp rocks and deep ruts are no match for the Outpost nAT. Facing light snow or slush along your route? The Outpost nAT is emblazoned with the three-peak mountain snowflake emblem that certifies it’s built with winter in mind, so it can serve as a year-round driving option for drivers who visit wintry terrain.
The Nokian Tyres Outpost nAT comes from the company’s award-winning factory in Tennessee. The Outpost can only be found in North America, because it’s engineered for the unique demands of North American roads, from rocky deserts and winding coastlines to rugged mountains and pothole-pockmarked streets.
Safety starts where the rubber meets the road – or mud, gravel or dirt. The Nokian Tyres Outpost nAT helps keep overlanders safe so they can Extend Their Adventures.
*Terms and conditions apply
READ MORE: Editors’ Choice: Camp Sleeping Gear
Softopper — Exo Truck Bed Rack
Turn your vehicle into the ultimate overlander or the hardest working truck out there with Softopper’s Exo Truck Bed Rack. This game-changing rack mounts to your truck – with or without factory bed rail tracks depending on the truck. Install your roof-top tent and a whole host of gear from recovery tools to jacks and everything in between. You’ll never be caught unprepared. You’ll leave nothing behind thanks to multiple ratchet-strap mounts. It also fits all RotopaX molded gas cans, boasts mounts for LED camp light mounts and rear AUX 3rd brake lights, and includes two accessory panels and four tent cross bars. Made from 10, 12, and 14-gauge steel, the Exo Truck Bed Rack is laser cut and formed to exact standards for a perfect, no-hassle fit. It comes complete with all hardware and simple, easy-to-read instructions.
Currently only available for 3rd and 4th generation Toyota Tacomas as well as Jeep Gladiators (JT).
Fits Softopper®’s folding truck caps
Rack mounts to your truck – The rack mounts with or without factory bed rail tracks depending on the truck.
Roof-top tent mounting holes, no drilling required
Includes 2 accessory panels and 4 tent cross bars
Hole patterns for all the gear
Weight will depend per model
Capacity: 1,000 pounds
PLEASE NOTE: Softopper Sold Separately. Compatible with Softopper Bed Caps; Does NOT work with Bestop Supertop for Truck.
MSRP: $1399.00
Torque Wheels — TW401R Canyon Wheels
The Torque Wheels TW401R Canyon wheel is built for performance and engineered to meet the precise demands of off-road enthusiasts. Flow formed from high-strength aluminum, this wheel boasts a robust one-piece construction that guarantees durability under challenging conditions. Its light yet strong complexion is complimented by a sleek satin black finish, which provides an additional layer of protection against the elements.
Born as an evolution of the Torque Wheels TW301AF Baja Canyon offroad race wheel, the TW401R Canyon wheel is available in 5×127, 6×135, and 6×139.7 bolt patterns, making it compatible with a wide range of off-road vehicle applications. The Canyon can be purchased in 17” or 20” sizes for offroad enthusiasts to bring the high quality standards required to win the Baja 1000 to their own rig. Whether navigating rocky terrain or muddy trails, the TW401R Canyon wheel delivers the performance and reliability that off-road enthusiasts demand.
Beyond its technical specifications, the TW401R Canyon wheel embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration. Its design reflects a commitment to conquer each and every obstacle it may face, ensuring that every journey is supported by a superior product capable of withstanding the rigors of off-road driving. Just as this wheel supports offroad vehicles, each Canyon wheel also supports the trails beneath the tires as a portion of all sales are donated to Tread Lightly! For those seeking a wheel that combines strength, style, and performance, the Torque Wheels TW401R Canyon wheel stands as a testament to overland engineering excellence.
MSRP: $305 (per wheel)
TRAVOCA — Rigel 60DZ eCooler
The best chapters of life often begin with a single moment of clarity. For TRAVOCA’s founder David, that moment came during his first overlanding adventure when he experienced the simple luxury of cooking and dining under a canopy of stars in the mountains of Virginia. After years of engineering home comforts, he discovered a new truth: some meals taste better with a side dish of freedom.
Drawing on decades of expertise in precision engineering, TRAVOCA crafts premium outdoor gear that empowers you to bring the comforts of home to the wild without compromising on style or performance.
Their state-of-the-art Rigel 60DZ 12V dual zone fridge/freezer (eCooler) is engineered to enhance your outdoor dining experience. The Rigel 60DZ eCooler includes Vacuum Insulated Panels for up to 80% longer insulation protection and lower power usage than conventional 12v fridges. Dual Zones are separated by a removable divider, so you can have fresh food and ice cream on-the-go. A high-efficiency compressor runs quietly. Precise temperature control (-4 to 68F) via the onboard interface or Bluetooth APP keeps food and drinks fresh and ready. The Rigel 60DZ can be powered using either cigarette lighter or conventional power cords (included). The rugged Steel and Bamboo exterior provides IPX5 splash protection.
TRAVOCA understands that life isn’t about settling – it’s about setting out, discovering new horizons, and sharing meals with those who matter most. Because true freedom isn’t just about where you can go – it’s about what you can do when you get there. With TRAVOCA, every destination becomes an opportunity to create your perfect outdoor living space. Check out the Rigel 60DZ and all of TRAVOCA’s new products at Overland Expo West, PNW and MTN W, and TRAVOCA.com.
MSRP: $899.99 (starts shipping in July)
