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We dive deep into the critical importance of truly understanding your overlanding equipment before you need it in an emergency situation, focusing specifically on winches, recovery gear, and first aid supplies.

• Proper winch installation requires accessibility to controls and free spool functions without obstruction
• Many overlanders prioritize aesthetics over functionality when installing gear
• Radio channels above 16 provide higher power and better range for trail communication
• Never run compressors through cigarette lighters—they'll blow the fuse
• Understanding water storage in freezing conditions requires proper techniques
• Recovery equipment like soft shackles must be configured correctly for safety
• Testing your gear at home before trail use is essential for building competence
• First aid equipment requires proper training—tourniquets, splints, and trauma gear can cause harm if used incorrectly
• Professional training resources include Ozark 4x4 (Jason) and Switchback Outdoor Safety (Aaron Paris)
• Practical winch knowledge includes managing vehicle position and brake tension during recovery

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Outskirts Overland shares exciting updates about recent gear changes and vehicle modifications aimed at improving cold-weather reliability and off-road capability.

• Switching from lithium-iron-phosphate to AGM battery for better cold-weather performance
• Installing a Redarc BCDC1225D DC-to-DC charger with 25 amps of power
• Upgrading to an iCamper Disco Scottle cooking system for more versatile meal preparation
• Adding 5.29 Yukon gears with front and rear air lockers to improve off-road performance
• Finding solutions for trash management with a tailgate-specific trash bag
• Discussing vehicle security concerns with push-button start systems
• Using Hip Camp as an alternative to public lands when camping near cities
• Emphasizing that extensive modifications aren't necessary for successful overlanding

Listen to my podcast with Newfound Overland going live tomorrow - it's two hours long and definitely worth checking out!

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Medical emergencies don't care how far you've ventured from civilization. When overlanding takes you deep into remote areas, your preparation for health concerns becomes as crucial as your recovery gear and spare parts.

Charlie explores a topic that rarely gets attention in overlanding circles but could save lives: how to prepare for adventures when you or your companions have medical limitations. This eye-opening discussion was inspired by a message from a listener named Corey, highlighting concerns that many overlanders simply never consider until faced with an emergency.

From severe allergies that require EpiPens to managing insulin that needs refrigeration, the conversation covers practical strategies for keeping everyone safe when help isn't just a phone call away. Charlie shares a startling personal experience where poison ivy in campfire smoke caused a serious reaction in a companion, demonstrating how even knowledgeable outdoors people can be caught unprepared.

The episode delves into important considerations like medication storage (keeping vital medications where they won't be accidentally dropped or left behind), redundancy planning (ensuring someone else can administer your emergency medication if you're unable), and communication (making sure your group knows about relevant medical needs before setting out).

These conversations aren't about limiting who can participate in adventures—they're about expanding our preparation to ensure everyone can explore safely. As Charlie puts it, "It would be so dumb to cause a catastrophe over something preventable." Whether you have medical considerations or travel with those who do, this episode provides valuable perspective that could prevent a wonderful adventure from turning into a nightmare scenario.

Have you thought about the medical needs of your overlanding companions? Share your own preparation strategies or experiences, and subscribe for more practical overlanding insights delivered daily.

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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!

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Charlie shares the events where you can meet him this year including the More Expo in April and Overland of America in September, both with Midwest Adventure Outfitters.

• Top three vehicle mods for car camping: storage space, charging capabilities, and organization systems
• Must-have mods for overlanding: high-ply all-terrain tires, window tint, and reliable navigation
• Essential modifications for off-roading: quality tires, frame sliders, and strategic skid plates
• Charlie's favorite camping gear includes his 23Zero Kabari rooftop tent, refrigerator, 270-degree awning, and GCI Rocker camp chair
• Pull Start Fire earns high praise for eliminating traditional fire-starting hassles
• Practical considerations like headlamps and trash management solutions are often overlooked but essential
• Charlie recommends Husky waterproof storage boxes for their versatility, including using them for washing clothes while camping

Send your topic suggestions to Charlie for future episodes through social media at Outskirts Overland on all platforms.

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Charlie from Outskirts Overland shares personal insights and recommendations for durable, functional outdoor clothing based on military experience and extensive backcountry adventures.

• Merino wool as the superior choice for base layers, underwear, socks, and t-shirts
• Benefits include excellent heat retention when wet, quick-drying properties, and remarkable odor resistance
• Smart layering strategies for different weather conditions and activities
• Glove recommendations including insulated leather and Seirus Extreme for winter use
• Footwear choices including waterproof boots for winter and breathable Solomon shoes for summer
• Summer clothing considerations with swim trunks as a versatile, quick-drying option
• Critical importance of burn first aid supplies for campfire safety
• Practical tips like using headlamps to secure hoods in windy conditions
• The superior performance of natural materials like merino wool and fleece that retain heat when wet

Keep preparing, keep getting outside, and remember that quality gear isn't just about comfort—it's about survival when you're miles from civilization.

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Charlie from Outskirts Overland shares essential strategies for camping in high winds based on his extensive experience in Missouri's unpredictable Midwest weather. He covers everything from proper tent positioning and cooking techniques to practical tips for managing your campsite when dealing with gusts up to 50-60 mph.

• Position wedge-style rooftop tents with the high wedge facing into the wind
• Wait to set up tents until you're ready to use them to prevent unnecessary strain
• Avoid using awnings in winds over 15 mph regardless of how well they're staked down
• Purchase a foldable wind guard for your camp stove to maintain better temperature control and save fuel
• Double-stake tent guylines by creating V-shaped anchors for better stability
• Secure lightweight items like chairs by flipping them or weighing them down
• Hold trash bags between your legs when filling to prevent them from blowing away
• Exercise extreme caution with campfires in windy conditions or avoid them altogether
• Check weather forecasts before setting up camp to properly prepare for conditions

Check out my upcoming collaboration with Benji at Newfound Overland where we'll be sharing even more camping insights and experiences.

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Charlie discusses the importance of education over criticism in the outdoor community after witnessing harsh public shaming at a recent camping event. He emphasizes that truly treading lightly means treating fellow outdoor enthusiasts with respect while teaching proper outdoor ethics.

• Confronting a situation where campers were publicly shamed for improper ash disposal instead of being educated on proper techniques
• Explaining how public criticism without education doesn't improve community knowledge or behavior
• Recommending TreadLightly.org as a free resource with courses on proper outdoor ethics and principles
• Challenging the outdoor community to be more welcoming by helping rather than condemning newcomers
• Emphasizing that public lands belong to everyone, including those still learning proper etiquette
• Encouraging community members to reach out for guidance rather than avoiding outdoor spaces due to fear of judgment

If you made a mistake at the Polar Bear Camping Club event, reach out to me. I'd be happy to help you learn the proper techniques without judgment. Our community grows stronger through education, not exclusion.

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Picture this: you're miles away from civilization, the night is cold, and your tent is your only sanctuary. Have you ever wondered if a single diesel heater can keep you warm in a spacious Gazelle T4 Overland tent? On our latest escapade through the wild trails of Northwest Arkansas, we confronted muddy roads, gear dilemmas, and the eternal quest for camping comfort. Despite unexpected challenges like trail closures and the notorious Arkansas mud, our trusty rooftop tent and an innovative 16-foot hose extension kept things cozy. We also share exciting news about our upcoming recording for Newfound Overland and reflect on the encouraging feedback from our loyal listeners.

The adventure doesn't stop there. Privacy and comfort during camping trips can make or break the experience, especially when traveling with loved ones. We dive into the practicality of outdoor bathroom situations and how an awning or privacy room might just be the solution for those craving a bit more seclusion. We also explore the ingenious use of camping gear to enhance comfort, including our attempts at creating the ultimate portable cleaning solution for camp dishes. If you've ever been frustrated by dishwashing at a campsite, our experiment with baby wipes and Dawn Powerwash might just be the hack you've been looking for.

But what's an adventure without a few hiccups? From the unpredictability of gear performance to the joys of slow-paced exploration, we discuss our approach to tackling the challenges of overlanding. It's all about maintaining a positive attitude and learning through each mishap, whether it's food spoiling or running out of power. We delve into the critical process of gear selection, where finding the right duffel bag is just as important as ensuring every piece of equipment has its designated spot. Join us as we navigate the highs and lows of outdoor adventures, always striving for the perfect setup to make every journey unforgettable.

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