Buy vs. Build: Which Overlanding Rig Strategy Is Right for You?In this episode of the Bonfire Podcast by Blue Ridge Overland Gear, we're diving into one of the most debated topics in the overlanding community: Should you buy a turnkey rig or build one yourself from the ground up?Join us as we break down the pros and cons of building your own overland setup versus buying something ready to hit the trail. We talk timelines, budgets, mistakes we’ve made, gear choices, and how your lifestyle, skills, and goals should guide your decision.Whether you're gearing up for weekend adventures or planning a cross-country expedition, this episode will help you make smarter decisions about your rig.

🔧 Topics Covered:

• Time and money trade-offs between buying and building
• Common pitfalls in DIY buildsWhen a turnkey solution makes more sense
• Real-world experiences from the BROG crew
• Tips for getting started without getting overwhelmed

If you’ve ever stood in the garage staring at a pile of gear wondering where to start—or dreamed of rolling off the lot ready to roll—this one’s for you.

👇 Got questions or want to share your rig story? Drop it in the comments!

Get ready for a riveting Ask Us Anything (AUA) episode! We're pulling back the curtain and diving deep into your most burning questions about overlanding, gear, adventures, and everything in between.A huge shoutout to all our incredible listeners and followers who took the time to submit their questions. Time Stamps:00:00 - Intro00:12 - Jerky review04:28 - Any plans for a larger duffle?05:33 - One bag design you haven't made?09:08 - Camp chef bags?10:01 - Why so awesome?10:44 - Biggest surprise success?16:05 - Customer Ideas21:01 - Bucket list destination29:01 - One thing you learned the hard way on a trip33:48 - What would your CB handle be?---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your JourneySHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnwINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The BROG team dives deep into everything you need to know about vehicle power systems for off-grid adventures! Matt, Rick, and Logan share their real-world experience with trail power management, comparing different setups, and essential gear for extended overlanding trips. Whether you're planning your first overland build or upgrading your current rig, this episode covers the critical power solutions you need to stay charged in the backcountry.🔥 EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT: Submit your questions now for our upcoming Ask Me Anything episode! We want to hear from YOU about overlanding gear, BROG products, or even that infamous coffee table we can't stop talking about! Comment below or message us directly.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your JourneySHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnwINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------👇 TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro & AMA Announcement5:30 - temperature Issues12:45 - Matt's Take on Solar Panels24:18 - Ecoflow Deals35:22 - Pheasant

In this episode, we dive into the shifting landscape of overlanding gear, U.S. manufacturing, and the ripple effects of new tariffs hitting the outdoor and vehicle accessory industries. Logan and the crew chat about how these changes are impacting small businesses, gear prices, and what it really means to support American-made products right now.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• How new tariffs are affecting overlanding gear
• The Cost of American-made products
• Why sourcing and production is getting more complex
• Real talk on supporting small businesses in a changing market

QUESTION FOR YOU: What gear have you noticed getting more expensive? Are you prioritizing American-made products despite higher costs? Share your experiences below!

P.S. The Discount Code that we mention in the episode is all caps.

⏱️ Timestamps

• 00:00:00 – Intro banter & setting the stage for the tariff talk
• 00:00:47 – What’s going on with tariffs right now
• 00:01:21 – Shoutout to U.S.-made gear & how it's being affected
• 00:01:52 – How buying patterns are shifting in the overland community
• 00:02:30 – The tension between quality gear and affordability

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Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey

SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/

YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear

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Welcome back to another episode of the Overland Bonfire Podcast! Were back with more studio upgrades and furniture finds from the Facebook marketplace, including our epic new coffee table. We also chat about Logan's brand new vehicle project—a 2007 Land Rover LR3. Join us as we discuss the exciting build plans, including potential mods and upgrades, along with some more extreme suggestions (usually from Matt). Also the jerky subscription box strikes again. Whether you’re an overlanding enthusiast, a gear nerd, or just here for the banter and laughs, this episode is full of engaging discussions and exploration plans. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more updates!0:00 - Podcast Introduction & Studio Updates1:00 - Coffee Table Story & Facebook Marketplace Finds03:28 - Teaser and Jerky Tasting07:00 - Logan's LR3 Purchase14:00 - Upcoming Build Plans & Modifications26:16 - Overlanding Adventures & Plans40:00 - What Budget Platforms are Left---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your JourneySHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnwINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ready to level up your overlanding storage game? In our latest Overland Bonfire episode, we're talking abotu hard storage solutions for your off-road adventures! 🏕️While we love our soft bags, we can't ignore the durability and organization that hard cases bring to the trail. We break down exactly what makes the perfect hard storage system (hello, straight sides and stackability!) and share our real-world experiences with different brands and setups.Plus, we've got some genius DIY organization hacks that'll save you money and keep your gear perfectly arranged. For those of you who stick around to the end we have yet another jerky review for you. Whether you're planning your first overlanding trip or you're a seasoned off-grid explorer looking to optimize your setup, this episode delivers practical advice with our signature campfire banter.

Welcome to the Overland Bonfire Podcast, presented by Blue Ridge Overland Gear! In this episode, we're tackling a common overlanding challenge—wasted space in your vehicle. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or a months-long expedition, smart organization can make all the difference. We’ll share practical tips and creative solutions to help you maximize storage, streamline your setup, and keep your rig adventure-ready.But that’s not all! We’re also diving back into our infamous jerky reviews, sampling bold new flavors and putting our taste buds to the test. Will we discover a new favorite, or will we regret our choices?Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on our latest adventures. Let us know in the comments how you optimize space in your rig and if you have a go-to overland snack we should try next! Happy overlanding, and enjoy the bonfire!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your JourneySHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnwINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sick of wasting money on gear that falls apart? In this episode, we break down how to invest in high-quality gear that stands the test of time. From spotting well-built products to choosing brands that back their gear, we’re sharing practical tips to help you make smart buying decisions for overlanding, adventure, and everyday use.

✔️ How to inspect product craftsmanship before you buy 🧐
✔️ Why buying from trusted makers matters 💪
✔️ The benefits of modular gear systems 🔄
✔️ How proper maintenance extends gear life 🛠️

Upgrade your camping game with these must-haves! Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a long-term overlanding adventure, the right gear can make all the difference. In this episode, we’re sharing game-changing upgrades to enhance your outdoor experience.

We’ll talk about:
🔥 Why a refrigerator is a next-level addition for your setup
☕ How to upgrade your coffee game for the perfect trail brew
💤 The importance of a quality sleeping pad for a better night’s rest

Tune in for practical tips and inspiration to make your camping trips more comfortable and enjoyable.

Have a favorite upgrade that changed the way you camp? We’d love to hear your thoughts—drop us a message or connect with us on social media!

If you’re diving into a new overland rig or upgrading your current one, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Maybe you’re not sure where to begin, or you already have a list of epic upgrades in mind. In this episode, we share 5 essential tips to help you set up your rig perfectly.