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Are expensive trailers killing the spirit of overlanding? I dive deep into my honest thoughts about the growing trend of off-road trailers in the overlanding community. After 15+ years of vehicle-based adventure, I struggle to understand why so many enthusiasts are gravitating toward setups that fundamentally limit where they can explore.

True overlanding, in my experience, has always been about the journey - setting up camp, sleeping, breaking camp, and moving forward to discover new terrain. The beauty lies in the freedom to navigate challenging trails without being tied to a base camp. When you're pulling a $30,000 trailer that requires backtracking to the same location each day, are you still overlanding or just participating in a fancier version of traditional car camping?

The evolution of gear in our community fascinates me. We've watched the progression from simple ground tents to rooftop tents (which dominated from 2017-2021), then to quick-setup options like Gazelle tents, and now trailers represent the latest trend. Each iteration seems to prioritize increasing comfort, often at the expense of mobility and simplicity. But when these expensive rigs sit unused in driveways for most of the year, becoming what one listener aptly called "giant paperweights," we should question their practical value.

For those considering a trailer purchase, I share critical considerations about trail access limitations, additional costs (insurance, registration, maintenance), and the fundamental change to your adventure style. While I acknowledge trailers might make sense for families needing extra comfort or those using their vehicles as daily drivers, I challenge listeners to honestly assess whether the benefits outweigh the compromises.

What's your take on the great trailer debate? Do you prefer the freedom of a single-vehicle setup or the comforts of trailer camping? Join the conversation and let me know your experiences!