Blaze a trail

Word of warning: overlanding is a lifestyle, and once you start, it can be hard to stop, even if you do find yourself stuck in some mud. But you’ll need more than a good offroad SUV to really do it right — and get out of that mud pit.

Gerber Folding Spade

Dig yourself out of sticky situations with this compact folding shovel made from powder-coated carbon steel. It features a serrated-blade edge to take on all types of difficult terrain.

$62

Warn M8 Winch

Traveling off-road without a winch isn’t impossible, but it’s not far off, either, as the tool remains the most efficient means to overcome common obstacles. This one is a mainstay in overlanding communities, top-rated for its simplicity and value.

$1,017

Wavian Fuel Can

Want to increase your range? Bring more fuel. Rigorously tested, this modern take on a classic jerry can holds more than five gallons of extra gas — which is never a bad thing to have in your reserves.

$85

Maxtrax Mini

Could you use your car’s floor mats to get unstuck from the mud, sand or snow? Sure, but these compact recovery boards do a far better job — and they’re easier to clean.

$200

Thule Low-pro 3

Our pick for the best rooftop tent is true to its name, minimizing drag and its impact on fuel efficiency — especially when packed. So you can leave it on even when you’re not off to the woods. It sleeps two to three people.

$1,900

Magellan TRX7 Off Road Navigator

Magellan has been making GPS systems for three decades, but the TRX7 is its first attempt at hardcore 4×4 navigation. The unit comes preloaded with more than 44,000 off-road trails from national parks to public lands — and should you choose to go your own way, it lets you record your own data, too. $500