A Newcomer’s Guide to Overland Expo – East 2026 Edition
First Overland Expo? No problem. Here is everything you need to know, including must have essentials for planning, and our must-see parts of the weekend.
October 14, 2026
The Recap & ExcitementOverland Expo East 2024
Oak Ridge Estate
Arrington, VA
October 4-6, 2024
Event Statistics
- 14,500+ attendees
- 246 registered exhibitors
- 93 presenters, trainers, and VIPs
- 30 journalists
- 14 staff
- 234 classes, seminars, demos, activities, slideshows, and films; totaling 256+ session hours of instruction
- Attendees descended on Arrington, Virginia from all over the country. They span the country from 45 states. The highest in attendance were Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
- International attendees visited from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Great Britain, New Zealand, Sweden, Puerto Rico, and Columbia.
Event Highlights
- With over 256 course hours, Overland Expo East Education had something for everyone. From navigating complicated border crossings to basic vehicle maintenance, no matter you're experience level, you could expand your mental tool kit at Overland Expo.
- Campers from around the world and nearly every state exchanged inspiring stories in the on-site campgrounds about their favorite overlanding adventures. With activities from sunup to sundown, the campers had a full schedule equipping themselves for their next trip.
- When the sun goes down, the fun doesn't stop at Overland Expo. The Overland Expo Film Festival, Happy Hours, Booth Parties, the Foundation Raffle, and more fill the hours with fun and friendship.
- The Overland Expo Foundation charity raffle was full of excited attendees who took home hundreds of prizes donated by our amazing exhibitors. Plus, the raffle raised over $10,000 for the Overland Expo Foundation.
- Overland Expo East 2024 had an uptick in items perfect for basecamp like cots, ground tents, and other gear designed to provide a comfortable living space that packs down small.
- Ironman debuts brand refresh, the innovative Deltawing 270-degree awning, the Ursa 1300 rooftop tent, and more redesigned products.
- Crooked Finger Designs brought out their new Crooked Finger Box, an all in one power solution that’s meant to be easy to mount and slimline for van lifers.
- First time exhibitor Backlander brought their compact but incredibly strong cots that are bunk bed capable.
- THULE debuted a new cot tent that provides comfortable and weatherproof place to easily set up camp, mounted to your hitch receiver.
- The recently redesigned DECKED CargoGlide made its first appearance at an Overland Expo. This system integrates with the DECKED Drawers to give users easy access to your cargo.
- GP Factor continues to develop new equipment for the INEOS Grenadier, including their new integrated winch plate and bull bar.
Photo & Video Highlights
Photo Gallery
What People Are Saying
From Exhibitors:
“We do all of the Overland Expos! Everything goes so seamlessly every time. Love the shows, love the staff, everyone is so great.” - Eric from Rollercam
"We had a fantastic experience! Registration was a breeze, and our booth location was clearly marked, with staff guiding us directly there. The event was exceptionally well organized and we were thrilled to see a strong turnout. The interest in our product was significant, and we can’t wait to return next year!" - Derek from OverWater.Overland
From Attendees:
"Went for the day and I have to say, this was the coolest vehicle event I've ever been to! Can't wait to start my build because this place was so inspiring. I will 100% be camping the entire weekend next year!" - Christos K.
“This was my first Overland Expo and my family had the best time! Next year we'll camp so we don't have FOMO (fear of missing out) when we leave at the end of the day!” - Jon T.
"This was my first Overland Expo Event and I'm so glad I went! Learned many things and met great people. Will definitely be back next year!" - Cody P.
“Being able to talk to all the different exhibitors in person and shop the show while camping onsite really helped develop my 4Runner build. One of the exhibitors even came to my campsite to recommend what would be best for my rig!” - Grayson L.
“Transitioning from attendee to instructor has been amazing! It was truly a simple, seamless process and we really felt like a part of the team after our first meeting. This experience created a change in our overland lives and we look forward to what is yet to come! ” - Roman & Kylia
Featured Media Coverage
- Over 30 registered journalists attended Overland Expo East 2024. This group included top outlets amongst print, video, and online outlets, including our media sponsors OutdoorX4, Outside, and Wildsam Magazine.
- In addition to this group, hundreds of brand ambassadors, influencers and independent content creators were sharing their unique POV everywhere you looked.
News
Jeep Ride and Drive Comes to Overland Expo East 2026
Get behind the wheel and see the capability that Jeep offers during this exclusive Ride and Drive Experience at Overland Expo East.
October 13, 2026
Don’t Miss Exclusive Discounts at Overland Expo East
Enjoy exclusive offers and huge savings from the hundreds of exhibitors at Overland Expo East in Arrington, Virginia, October 23-25.
October 6, 2026
Inspiring Stories and Big Adventures at the Overland Expo East Film Festival
Overland Expo East 2026 is just around the corner, and with it comes a longtime favorite – the Overland Expo Film Festival. The film festival is sponsored by Midland Radio and takes place on Friday, October 23rd, bringing an evening of inspirational films documenting vehicle-based travel adventures both near and far. Be ready to be blown away by exceptional storytelling and world-class cinematography.
October 5, 2026