Overland Channels

Entering a new hobby for the first time can be intimidating and exciting all at the same time. The off-road/overlanding world is no different, but I would say can lean a little more toward the intimidating side. From the moment the idea takes root in your mind, to when you purchase your adventure vehicle, one thing becomes clear: there is a lot to this lifestyle.

As I’ve mentioned before, it took me two and half years to find my Jeep, but during that time I didn’t do too much research. I didn’t start that until I actually had the vehicle in hand. That’s when I opened the floodgates, and the research truly began. In my upbringing, and in my military life, I’ve learned to do research and not to be careless when doing something new, and potentially dangerous. Some may say I take things too carefully, but it is what it is, and I would rather live to tell the tale. Either way, I do have a wife, daughter, and two dogs to worry about when I’m out there, so keeping them safe is my top priority.

My research started in the same place as many others do now: Google. Well, Google and YouTube. I started by typing something like, “Jeep off-road,” or “Off-road driving.” I’m not exactly sure, but it was a relative broad search statement. The search came up with a few good channels, but it got better once I narrowed down the search to something like, “What to take when off-roading,” or “What tire pressures to be on when off-roading.” One of the first channels I found was Ronny Dahl. His channel includes many good videos for beginners like me. That’s how I learned about Maxtrax, the differences between a snatch strap and tow strap, and how to properly use them, and what he considers some essential gear when out on trails. He also tested some winch self-recovery methods, which turned me toward Deadman Off-Road as a great tool for self recovery using a winch.

Another channel I found was Trailrecon. Brad’s channel was a great find because I found him as he was relatively early in his Jeep build. So it’s been great seeing how he goes about upgrading his Jeep. As of this writing, though, he has gone far beyond what I’ve been able to do, but it’s still a great channel to get ideas on what, and how to do different things to the Jeep. His trail videos are fun to watch, and his love for the hobby is evident throughout his channel. AutoEdits is another channel where you can watch a Jeep project take shape. Jason (with Pinto the dog) is energetic and his how-to videos are really well made, and do a good job at explaining the process for each mod he does on the Jeep. His Jeep is also way beyond what I’ve been able to do, or plan to do, but it’s still fun to watch.

Expedition Overland is a channel that focuses on their great adventures. I discovered the channel later in my research and binge watched their South-American trip. It was fantastic. I highly recommend this channel to get inspired by their wonderful cinematography and great crew. This channel sometimes feels like I’m watching a National Geographic show, it’s that well edited and produced.

4xoverland is channel run by an experienced overlander; Andrew St. Pierre White. He produces a quality series, and has a lot of knowledge about the hobby that can only be learned through experience. His videos range from episodic adventures to educational videos. Check out the channel for some good stories and knowledge.

For a down-to-earth, real view into an everyday overland life, right now Venture4wd is my go-to channel. Chris travels solo, and his episodes take place in one week intervals. He takes you along his adventures through North America, across the U.S., Canada, and Alaska. What I like about him is his frank display of what a full time life in a JKU is like. He doesn’t hide much and is frank when he is feeling down, overwhelmed, or joyful. The pace of his videos are wonderful, and draw you into his weekly episodes with a pace made for relaxing as you take in the scenery he is exploring.

This are just a few of the channels I can think of to recommend, but by no means cover the expanse of the overland community. I’m constantly on the lookout for new channels and Instagram users to follow. Watching YouTube and following Overlanders on Instagram give me inspiration. Inspiration, to me, is one of the main forces that drive people forward into adventure. That is why I find having a diverse pool of content creators to tap into an important list to keep and expand.

I hope this little slice of the Overland YouTube world is helpful in getting your research underway. If you find, or know of any good channels, or Instagram users please let me know in the comments. I would love to check them out.

Until next time. Explore and increase your experience level.