Living full-time on the road for 11 years, we’ve learned that reliable power isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. From 10 wild weeks of sublime craziness in Iceland (including eight without a diesel heater) to our biggest adventure yet, the Mega Transect, we need a setup that will serve us well, no matter where we are.

That’s why we run REDARC. The RedVision Total Vehicle Management System makes life easy—we can check our battery levels, solar input, lights, and water pumps at a glance, from the push of a button or our phones, whether we’re sinking into a place for a week or two, or on the move. With the power of an Expion360 lithium battery and XPLOR 200W Solar Panels, we have all the energy we need to stay off-grid longer, free from any power-consumption anxiety. This allows us to connect with our surroundings, carefree and stay fully present.

For us, overlanding isn’t defined by the miles travelled, the obstacles faced, or even the destination. Since 2018, it has become our way of life—a rolling home. And we’re grateful that REDARC keeps it all running smoothly.

Now in our sixth year of full-time overlanding in Rhino, our 2015 Toyota Hilux, it’s impossible to choose a single “best” trip—each chapter has been packed with highs and firsts, from exploring every corner of Scotland to discovering the Nordic countries. Now, we’re undertaking what might just be the most epic journey yet: the Mega Transect—a globe-spanning adventure through the American West, Canada, Mexico, South America, Africa, Europe, and finally back to England. So far, so nuts!

When it comes to overlanding in your trusty rig (Rhino is ours, a 2015 Toyota Hilux), a few key considerations can elevate your adventure from rugged survival to seamless off-grid comfort. Here are our top five tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, allowing you to focus on the now:

1. Power Your Adventure with REDARC
   Reliable power is the backbone of any serious overland setup. With REDARC’s RedVision Total Vehicle Management System, you can effortlessly monitor and control everything from battery levels to lighting, solar and water pumps—all from your phone. Pair this with a REDARC Manager30 for top-tier battery charging and solar input, and you’ll never be left in the dark. (We appreciate Baja Designs light bars keeping our path illuminated, too.)
2. Dial in Your Suspension & Tyres
   Overlanding often means tackling unpredictable terrain, so invest in high-quality suspension upgrades and all-terrain tires. Whether you’re crawling over rocks (not our bag of fun to be fair) or navigating deep sand (sure, why not?), a well-tuned suspension system (we like ICON Vehicle Dynamics) and rugged BF Goodrich all-terrain K02 tires will keep your truck performing at its best.
3. Weatherproof Your Setup
   From monsoons to desert dust storms, your rig needs solid protection. A 270-degree Shadow Awning attached to the Alu-Cab ModCAP Family Camper setup will keep you covered in all conditions while providing a comfortable space to call your sanctuary home.
4. Water Management
   A built-in 50L water tank, paired with the Joolca hot water system, Guzzle H2O filtration system, and Epic Water Filters, transforms your 4×4 into a fully functioning home with all the necessary facilities. This setup means fewer stops and more freedom to explore remote locations, with access to pristine water just a turn of the faucet away. Hurrah! Plastic bottled water and wet wipes are now a thing of the past.
5. Pack Smart & Keep It Lightweight
   Weight distribution is crucial—carry only the essentials, and ensure heavier items are stored low and centered to maintain balance. Modular drawer systems, Goose Gear storage solutions, and a dedicated rescue gear section (plus a Safe Jack for roadside repairs) keep everything organised while minimising unnecessary bulk.

3+ Must-Have Items for Overlanding

• Starlink Mini – Stay connected anywhere in the world with fast, reliable satellite internet. Perfect for route planning, remote work, and storytelling along the way as we share our journey.
• Garmin inReach – A rugged satellite communicator that enables two-way messaging, GPS navigation, SOS emergency alerts, and location tracking in remote areas without cellular service.
• National Luna 60L Legacy QC Fridge – Because it keeps our all-veggie haul fresh and crisp, ensuring off-grid life feels like home—with clean, nutritious meals wherever the road takes us.

Golden, crispy tortillas packed with melty cheese, smoky black beans, and charred veggies—our ultimate campfire comfort food!

Ingredients (Serves 2-3):

4 large tortillas
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 red & 1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder
Smoked salt & pepper to taste
½ tbsp olive oil (or butter for crispiness)
1 avocado, sliced
½ cup salsa + sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the veggies – Heat a skillet over the fire, add oil, and cook onions & peppers with spices for 5 minutes until soft and slightly charred.

2. Assemble – Sprinkle cheese on half of a tortilla, layer on beans and veggies, add more cheese, and fold.

3. Crisp it up – Cook in a hot, greased pan for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and gooey inside.

4. Serve – Slice into wedges and enjoy with avocado, fresh salsa, and sour cream.

Pro Tip: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or leftover grilled veggies for extra flavour! Perfect for fireside feasting.

Confidence is your best tool. Equip yourself with basic vehicle recovery skills, self-defense awareness, and smart campsite selection. Solo or partnered, always trust your instincts, stay connected via inReach GPS, and don’t be afraid to own your space on the road.

(Published Blog Post on the Redarc website.)

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