Be prepared… for a great time!
As we get closer to Overland Expo Mountain West, it’s time to start thinking of what to pack. Loveland is located in Colorado’s infamous Front Range. Close to Denver and nestled in the mountains, this high elevation town is a hub for hiking, climbing, rafting, mountain biking, and — of course — overlanding. To be sure you make the most out of your time at Overland Expo Mountain West, be sure to pack these nine items before you hit the road to Loveland.
1. Sun protection
For those who haven’t been in high elevation before, it may be a surprise that the air is thinner and that means some additional precautions. For instance, the sun is less filtered by the atmosphere, meaning those rays can do more damage. Protect yourself from the sun with a sun shirt, sunblock, and sunglasses, and be sure to pick up a sun hat at the Overland Expo merch store.
2. Outdoor gear
Being so close to incredible trails, rivers, and roads, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to get out there and have some fun before or after the Expo. Whatever gets your blood flowing, pack your favorite toys that help you have fun outside. Hiking shoes, mountain bike, pack raft, frisbee, adventure moto, and of course your overland rig are all worth finding a way to pack — of course, some are easier to shove in a suitcase than overs, but we’re sure you can figure it out.
3. Moto gear
Speaking of adventure motos, we have special motorcycle activities just for you! Ride to Loveland and camp in our exclusive Moto Camping area for a campout under the stars. Need some new gear? Pick some up at one of our vendors in the Moto Village and walk away stocked up for your next adventure. And riders at all skill levels can find valuable information at our ADV Skills Area with loads of classes on basic maintenance, roadside repairs, and changing a flat in the field.
4. Pen and notebook
There is so much to learn at Overland Expo events, it can start to blur together if you don’t take notes. With so many classes, exhibitor demos, and new best friends, you’ll want to keep track of the information and not go home confused if it was Brian or Terry who lived just three hours away, which winch system was the right one for that expedition you are planning over the winter, how do you properly apply pressure to a wound. Of course, a Notes app or other device will also be sufficient if you don’t have a pen and notebook, but you’ll want to save your phone battery for photos! Unless, of course, you bring a camera.
READ MORE: Overland Expo PNW ’25 Recap
5. Camera
In addition to a pen and paper (or your Notes app), a camera can be a great way to take notes of all the incredible products you see. It is easy to get turned around or forget the incredible deals and newest innovations, so having a visual reminder is key. Also, there’s no way you could forget our parties but it’s still great to have photos from our live music, happy hour, raffle, games, and more that keep the fun going well into the night.
6. Refillable bottle
Remember we said it can get hot at high altitude? With the dry air, your body works its magic by sweating, which evaporates to help you cool. But that means we get dehydrated a lot faster than we think. Overland Expo has you covered, though, with water stations all around the Expo so you can fill your bottles for free.
7. Money
Whether it’s cash or card, we have incredible food trucks stationed around the Expo selling coffee, breakfast, lunch, even ice cream. Not to mention, many exhibitors are selling their products at incredible deals.
8. Phone and charger
Lots of exhibitors also have QR codes available to be able to buy products at exceptional rates exclusive to Overland Expo Mountain West attendees, so bring a phone with a camera and internet access to be able to score those deals. We have charging ports available at our Bivvys located around the Expo, so bring a charger with you in case you’re in need of some extra juice before getting into the rest of the evening’s activities.
9. Excitement for overlanding
And last but certainly not least, show up with a sense of curiosity and excitement for overlanding. The world is a beautiful place, and this weekend you will be surrounded by people who are excited to talk shop, show you their personal rigs and the ones they’ve built to sell, and share their favorite spots and best stories. Whether you’ve never been overlanding or were born in a Jeep on safari, come to Overland Expo Mountain West excited to listen, share, dance to some great music, and embrace the world of overlanding.
Now that you have your bags packed, make sure you have your tickets! Click the button below to learn more about Overland Expo Mountain West and secure your spot today!
