With its robust construction and ingenious design, the COMBAR Pro stands as a testament to uncompromising quality, crafted from materials that have been expertly chosen to meet the demands of the wild. In this blog, we'll delve into six essential ways hunters utilize the COMBAR Pro, from honing their skills during practice to the intricate work of game processing. Get ready to discover how this exceptional tool can enhance your hunting experience and become an indispensable companion on your journeys into nature's realm.
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Before your hunting adventure begins, honing your skills and staying prepared are essential aspects of the hunting journey. The COMBAR Pro is great to bring along for practicing and training sessions in the great outdoors. Its folding hatchet blade provides a versatile tool for setting up camp or constructing blinds, offering valuable insights into practical fieldwork. With its solid head and rigid shaft, the COMBAR Pro handles hammering tasks with ease, helping you perfect your aim and precision. Additionally, the survival serrated knife concealed within the shaft is invaluable for cutting through ropes and branches, allowing you to simulate real-life scenarios effectively. Whether you're setting up targets or honing your fire-building skills, this multitool's compact design ensures it's always within reach. With the COMBAR Pro by your side during practice and training, you'll be well-prepared to face the challenges of the hunt with confidence and competence.
The perfect shot often depends on an unobstructed line of sight. This is where the COMBAR Pro truly shines. When you're out in the wild, the terrain can be unforgiving, with branches and underbrush obscuring your view. The COMBAR PROs hatchet and saw come to the rescue, allowing you to swiftly clear shooting lanes with precision and efficiency. Its sharp hatchet blade can effortlessly remove branches and undergrowth that might otherwise compromise your shot, while the folding pruning saw tackles thicker obstacles with ease. With the COMBAR Pro in hand, you can ensure that your hunting vantage points are unobstructed, increasing your chances of a successful and ethical hunt. Whether you're perched in a tree stand or hidden in a ground blind, this multitool becomes an invaluable asset in your pursuit of the perfect shot.
One of the most important parts of any camping trip is ensuring that you have the best camp set up to return to when you’re done for the day. Efficiency and practicality are paramount when setting up camp in the wilderness, and the COMBAR PRO excels in being the ultimate companion when setting up camp. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day hunting expedition or a weekend getaway, this versatile tool is your trusty companion. Its folding hatchet blade, solid head, and titanium spade provide a trifecta of capabilities for camp setup. With the hatchet, you can quickly clear the area and shape logs for seating or crafting makeshift tables. The titanium spade, with its 180º deployment, effortlessly digs holes for tent stakes or latrine purposes. The COMBAR Pro's ergonomic design and easy handling ensure that camp setup becomes a breeze, allowing you to focus on the camaraderie of the outdoors and the anticipation of the hunt. Whether it's constructing a comfortable base or organizing your gear, this multitool is your go-to resource for creating a practical and comfortable campsite.
Processing firewood for camp is an art, a time-honored tradition that connects us with the primal elements of nature. It's in these moments, surrounded by the wilderness, that the COMBAR Pro truly shines. With its foldable hatchet blade and robust design, this elite tool effortlessly transforms the laborious task of gathering and preparing firewood into a gratifying experience. Just like the seasoned outdoorsman, we understand the importance of a well-prepared campfire. The COMBAR Pro's hatchet blade allows you to efficiently chop branches and logs into manageable pieces, ensuring a steady supply of fuel to keep your campfire burning bright throughout the night. To make kindle for camp, check out our blog all about how to make perfect campfire kindling. As we delve into the details of its exceptional design and capabilities, you'll discover how this multitool elevates the campfire experience, adding warmth and comfort to your self-reliant outdoor adventures.
In the unpredictable world of hunting, nature can present us with unexpected challenges. That's where the COMBAR Pro truly becomes a lifesaver—quite literally. While our focus is always on the exhilaration of the hunt and the freedom of exploration, we're also keenly aware of the importance of preparedness. The COMBAR Pro, with its ingenious design and elite standards, stands ready to assist in unforeseen emergency situations during your hunting trips. Imagine finding yourself in a remote area, far from civilization, and facing a dire situation. It's moments like these when the COMBAR Pro's versatile capabilities come to the forefront. The survival serrated knife hidden within its shaft can prove invaluable for cutting ropes, fabricating shelter, or even providing food in a pinch. With its solid construction, this tool can handle critical tasks with ease, from building emergency shelters to fashioning tools for survival.
But let's not forget the practicality of the hatchet blade and titanium spade. In an emergency, they can be deployed to construct a signal fire or clear a path to safety. The COMBAR Pro's robust design ensures it's up to the task, even in the most challenging situations.
While our passion lies in the pursuit of adventure and the thrill of the hunt, we also understand the need for self-reliance and adaptability in the face of adversity. The COMBAR Pro embodies these values, serving as a trusty companion that can make a crucial difference when it matters most, allowing you to confidently navigate the unexpected while you chase your hunting dreams.
The culmination of a successful expedition is often marked by the moment of processing game. It's a time-honored practice where skill and precision are paramount, and this is another area of the trip in which the COMBAR can come into play.
Deer Hunting: When it comes to processing game like deer, the COMBAR Pro showcases its prowess. The robust folding hatchet blade provides the ideal tool for splitting rib cages and separating joints, ensuring efficient and clean butchering. Its rigid shaft and solid head offer the control and strength required for precise cuts, whether you're field dressing or preparing the animal for transport. The COMBAR Pro's versatility extends to the delicate work of skinning, thanks to its survival serrated knife, allowing you to complete the process with finesse.
Bird Hunting: For avid bird hunters, the COMBAR Pro's capabilities remain unmatched. After a successful waterfowl hunt, its knife becomes indispensable for plucking feathers and processing game with precision. The lightweight and compact design ensure it's easy to carry, making it the ideal companion for your waterfowl expeditions.
Big Game Hunting: Venturing into the wild for larger game, such as elk or bear, demands a tool that can handle the rigors of the task. The COMBAR Pro's hard-anodized aluminum and 420J2 stainless steel construction are up to the challenge. Its hatchet blade can tackle the toughest cuts, while the knife allows for detailed work. With this multitool by your side, processing big game becomes a manageable and efficient endeavor.
We've explored the versatility of the COMBAR Pro across various facets of your hunting journey, from honing your skills during practice and training to ensuring you're ready for the unexpected in emergency situations.
Whether you're clearing shooting lanes, setting up camp, processing firewood, or handling the delicate task of processing game, the COMBAR Pro stands as your trusted companion, designed to elite standards. Its robust construction, multifunctional capabilities, and ergonomic design make it an invaluable addition to your hunting gear arsenal.
As you embark on your next hunting expedition, remember the versatility of the COMBAR Pro and how it can enhance your experience in the wild. Share these tips with your fellow hunters and enthusiasts, and let's empower the hunting community together. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, the COMBAR Pro ensures that you're well-prepared, self-reliant, and ready to embrace the exhilaration of the hunt.
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How do you use your COMBAR? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Looking for more information about using the COMBAR while hunting? Check out Diary of a Hunting Photographer: Ibex in Spain, Mule Deer in Mexico, and Mountain Lions in Idaho.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Here are the essential Rules of Thumb for Car Camping on U.S Public Lands.
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]]>Dispersed camping, for those who don’t know, is the practice of setting up a campsite outside of designated campgrounds or established facilities. Unlike traditional campgrounds that offer amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, dispersed camping involves finding an undeveloped spot in natural areas such as national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, or other public lands. Campers must bring their own supplies, including water, food, and shelter, and are responsible for practicing Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment. It's a liberating, self-reliant form of adventure.
So, you’re itching to choose your own dispersed camping adventure? Do you know how to effectively plan and prepare for such a journey?
It's totally fine if you've got it all figured out or have your own unique approach. After all, the spirit of adventure thrives on individuality. However, whether you're a novice, a curious wanderer, or an experienced overlanding enthusiast seeking fresh insights, rest assured—we have your back!
In this blog, we provide a cheat sheet for dispersed camping and overlanding on public land in the US. Below are 5 essential rules of thumb that you must follow if you want to master the art of car camping or overlanding on public lands. From scouting out the perfect destination to leaving nothing but footprints, we'll guide you through the key principles that ensure a thrilling, sustainable, and well organized adventure.
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Before embarking on your overlanding adventure, it's crucial to scout out your destination thoroughly. This (hopefully) involves selecting an awe-inspiring location. It also (crucially) involves understanding the logistics that will impact your journey. Public lands have unique regulations designed to protect both the environment and visitors. Before embarking on your overlanding adventure, research the specific guidelines and rules established by the land management agency responsible for the area. These regulations may include camping permit requirements, designated camping areas, fire restrictions, and vehicle use guidelines. Ignoring these rules not only puts you at risk of fines but also threatens the delicate balance of the ecosystem and the accessibility of these lands for future generations. Here are the top three things to look out for when scouting our your destination:
Check for Public Land: Ensure that your destination region has accessible public lands for overlanding and camping. These lands, managed by government agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the U.S., often provide free or low-cost camping options. Apps like iOverlander and websites like BLM's official site can help you locate these lands.
The best places to find more information on the lands is:
Useful Apps and Maps: Leverage technology to your advantage. Apps like Gaia GPS and ONX, as well as offline maps, can help you find swaths of public land in any area with their public land overlay features. They can also help you navigate the terrain while staying informed about trails, road conditions, and potential hazards, even without service. Just make sure you download the map of the area to your phone before you leave service.
Check Conditions: Stay updated about the current conditions of the area, including weather forecasts and fire restrictions. Speaking of fires, ensure you're well-versed in fire regulations for the area. This is essential for preserving the environment and ensuring safety. If you are worried about Wildfires and want to stay prepared, check out our blog: Heat Map of US Wildfire Frequency: A Guide for Smart Trip Planning.
Each area of public land might have unique rules and regulations that you need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and respectful overlanding experience. This could be anything from campfire regulations to driving regulations. The more you know about where you’re going the better it will be—but also the less surprised you will be when you get there! There is nothing worse than packing your bag with firewood and s’more supplies, only to get there and realize there's a burn ban! So here are two good rules to always keep in mind:
Check local regulations: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the public land you plan to visit. Some lands might have restrictions on camping duration, designated camping areas, and off-road driving. Being informed can prevent unnecessary fines and protect the environment. The best way to do this is by visiting the website of the agency that manages the land.
Check Driving and Camping Legalities: Understand the legality of driving off-road and camping on public lands. Some lands might permit dispersed camping, where you can camp outside of designated campgrounds, while others might require you to stay within certain boundaries. Again, agency websites will be the most informative here, along with trip reports from recent visitors, which you can find via a quick Google search.
Proper preparation is the cornerstone of a successful overlanding and camping experience. Pack right and you'll have enough essentials to last you through your whole journey! But it doesn’t only need to be essentials—you also want to consider activities and entertainment! Here is our go-to list of essentials to always check off when packing:
Food: Ensure you have enough food to sustain you throughout your journey. Make a list, mental or physical for each meal, each day, and make sure you pack food for every one (plus some extra). Consider non-perishable items that require minimal refrigeration and have a good balance of nutritional value. If you have space in the back of your rig, consider getting a cooler—this not only will help keep your items fresh, but will also elevate your cooking experience in the wild. Want some simple camp meal ideas? Check out our blog from Drew Baker, on the best Un-Gourmet Camping Recipes: Camp Food for Real People.
Water: As we all know, water is life, and in remote areas, clean water sources might be scarce. Carry sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. A great pro tip: always bring more water than you expect to use. It’s always better to have too much than too little! Additionally, invest in a reliable water filtration system to purify available water sources. These range from small portable filters to large filtration systems. This saves a ton of space and weight, and minimizes store-bought plastic cartons.
Fuel: While out on public lands, running out of fuel can leave you in a tricky position. Adequate fuel is not only crucial for your vehicle but also for cooking and heating. Ensure you pack enough fuel for your vehicle and any camping equipment that requires it. This might mean an auxiliary gas canister and extra propane.
Hygiene Essentials: Maintaining proper hygiene is essential for both personal comfort and environmental responsibility. If you do decide to bring soap, make sure to pack biodegradable soap. There are loads of brands that carry multi-use soaps and wipes that are a great alternative! Also, consider using portable toilets to minimize your impact on the land.
Entertainment and Games: While nature provides its own entertainment, it's a good idea to bring along some form of your own, such as books, games, or musical instruments. Disconnecting from technology and embracing the solitude of nature can greatly enhance your overlanding experience.
While dispersed camping and overlanding offers an escape from the noise of urban life, it's essential to be considerate of fellow campers and visitors. Other’s have decided to come out into nature to enjoy the quiet and space from our busy fast-paced lives, too. Creating a harmonious atmosphere ensures that everyone can enjoy their experience in the great outdoors. Here are some great things to always consider when camping on public lands:
Observe Quiet Hours: Most camping areas have designated quiet hours during which noise should be minimized. Respect these hours to provide a peaceful environment for everyone. Also, just use common sense here. No 6AM Black Sabbath bangers.
Maintain Distance: Give other campers the space they need to enjoy their surroundings. Avoid setting up camp right next to others unless it's necessary.
Consider the Kids: Whether it's music or conversations, be mindful of youngsters who are nearby. If you're out there to get rowdy with adults, go a little further to ensure solitude.
Nature's splendor is fragile, and every footstep can leave an indelible mark. Leave No Trace is one of the most important and significant things you must know when you go outdoors, especially when camping on public lands. To minimize our impact and ensure the wilderness remains untouched, the Leave No Trace principles stand as a steadfast guide for responsible outdoor exploration. These principles encompass everything from pre-trip planning to post-trip cleanup:
Plan Ahead and Prepare: Thoroughly research the area you intend to explore. Understand the rules and regulations set forth by the land management agencies. This not only keeps you safe but also helps prevent unintentional damage to delicate ecosystems.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established roads and camping spots to prevent soil erosion and trampling of native vegetation. Avoid creating new paths, as these can cause irreversible harm to the environment.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out everything you bring in. This includes not just trash, but also food scraps and personal waste. Use proper waste disposal techniques, such as burying human waste in designated catholes away from water sources.
Leave What You Find: Refrain from disturbing plants, rocks, or historical artifacts. Preserve the area's natural beauty and cultural heritage for others to enjoy.
Minimize Campfire Impact: Campfires can scar the landscape and leave lasting damage. If fires are permitted, use established fire rings or pans. Only use dead and downed wood and keep the fire small. Extinguish the fire completely before leaving.
Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a safe distance. Never feed wildlife, as it can disrupt their natural behaviors and even be harmful to them.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down, especially during quiet hours. Give fellow campers and explorers the space they need to enjoy their experience.
Dispersed camping or overlanding on public lands offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature on a profound level. To make the most of this experience, it's imperative to approach it with responsibility and mindfulness. By scouting your destination, understanding the rules, packing thoughtfully, respecting your fellow adventurers, and leaving no trace, you can put together an EPIC trip. As you embark on your next adventure, carry these rules of thumb with you and share them within the overlanding community. See you out there!
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Are we missing a vital rule? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Not sure where to go Overlanding? Check out A Family Overlanding Adventure from Baja to the Arctic Circle.
Want to learn more about essential Overlanding Gear? Overlanding Pro Tips: How to Keep Your Multitool With You When Driving, At Camp, and On Foot.
Looking to learn more about Overlanding? Check out On Mastering the Art of Overlanding.
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You don’t bring a COMBAR with you for a specific task, but for any number of the unspecified tasks that could pop up without warning: freeing a stuck tire, cutting rope, hammering a fender back into shape. To get the most out of this tool requires keeping it with you at all times, whether you’re on the road, at camp, or on foot nearby. Keeping it with you means mastering the art of stowing your COMBAR. Without thinking, you need to know where to reach when that tire starts spinning, or the fender gets bent. It needs to be an extension of you. That’s what we explore in this article, the best ways to keep your COMBAR within arm's reach when you’re overlanding. If you're looking for more information on what emergency items should be kept in your overlanding rig, you can read our blog about the 5 essential items to keep in your overlanding emergency kit.
Below are five places to stash your COMBAR based on five likely scenarios that any overlander will find themself in. (Note: these stash spots apply to any large-format multi tool, if it has a rugged carry case.)
The COMBAR's ingenious design extends beyond its functionality; it also offers creative solutions for storage. One such method involves utilizing the COMBAR's dedicated case to attach it securely to your grille frame. The COMBAR case has multiple attachment points and provides complete protection of both the COMBAR and the vehicle. This technique keeps the COMBAR easily accessible while also freeing up valuable space inside your rig. By making the most of existing fixtures on your vehicle, you're ensuring that this essential tool is conveniently within reach whenever the situation demands. So, the next time you're preparing to set up camp or conquer a daunting trail, rest assured that your trusted COMBAR is right where you need it.
Every overlanding enthusiast understands the value of mobility, and the COMBAR's case shoulder strap is here to grant you that freedom. With the durable shoulder strap, it can be effortlessly carried over your shoulder, granting you mobility and quick access. Whether you're scouting for firewood, setting up camp, or tackling unforeseen challenges, the shoulder strap on the COMBAR case transforms the COMBAR into an extension of your adventure-ready self. This hands-free approach allows you to maintain your focus on the journey ahead, knowing that your trusted tool is just a sling away.
In the world of overlanding, efficiency is key. When navigating tricky terrains, you can't afford to waste time rummaging through your gear. To ensure swift access to your COMBAR, consider using your dashboard as your storage place for the COMBAR. You can keep it here with or without the case, however, we do recommend using the case to protect both the vehicle and the COMBAR. This strategic placement keeps your tool visible, secure, and ready to deploy at a moment's notice. Our alum ambassadors, Egle and Lennart, explain the importance of having the COMBAR within reach in their blog, Overlanding Europe and Africa: Spain to Morocco. With this setup, you're effectively turning your dashboard into a command center, empowering you to react promptly to any challenge that comes your way.
While visibility is important, sometimes discretion is equally vital. Storing your COMBAR under the front seat is an excellent compromise, providing easy access without compromising your vehicle's interior aesthetics. The COMBAR is the perfect tool as you never know when you might need it. You could be half way through your next overlanding trip, and realize you need more firewood and happily realize your multitool is stowed nicely away under your seat. Many overlanding rigs offer ample space beneath the front seats, making it an ideal spot for keeping your COMBAR at the ready while maintaining a neat and uncluttered interior. You can also store the COMBAR under in the cubbies under the doors that many overlanding rigs have near the cockpit / throughout the truck.
Overlanding isn't always about week-long expeditions; sometimes, it's about seizing the opportunity for spontaneous day trips. There are various activities that will take you away from your basecamp, such as fishing adventures, hikes, and or the best MTB trail of your life. On such occasions, having your COMBAR close at hand is equally important. By stowing your tool in your backpack, you're ensuring that you're always prepared, whether you're exploring a nearby trail, setting up a picnic, or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors. The COMBAR's compact and versatile nature makes it an ideal companion for these short but meaningful adventures.
Along with backpack’s, some Overlanding rigs also have rear ladder bags. These are a great addition to your rig as it can store wood, along with any tools you might need, like the COMBAR. These bags are made from durable material and have multiple pockets and areas to store your gear. As easy as they attach to your rear ladder, they can easily be taken off an used as a bag on the go!
As the dust settles on our exploration of COMBAR storage solutions, one thing becomes abundantly clear: overlanding is a lifestyle that demands preparedness, adaptability, and innovation. The COMBAR epitomizes these qualities, and by mastering its storage techniques, you're taking your overlanding journey to the next level. From grille frame attachments to front seat concealment, from dash-mounted convenience to on-the-go shoulder straps – each method brings its own unique benefits to the table.
So, fellow adventurers, embrace these insights and let them become part of your overlanding toolkit. Share these tips with your community, spread the wisdom, and inspire others to elevate their overlanding game. The COMBAR isn't just a tool; it's a symbol of your readiness to face the unknown. It's a reminder that, no matter where the journey takes you, you're equipped not just with a multitool, but with a mindset of resilience and exploration.
Now, armed with the knowledge of efficient COMBAR storage, venture forth, conquer new horizons, and let the spirit of overlanding guide you through every twist and turn of the road less traveled.
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How do you store your COMBAR? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Looking for more information about Overlanding? Check out Mastering The Art of Overlanding.
Want to learn more about essential Overlanding Gear? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit.
Looking to take an Overlanding trip? Check out A Family Overlanding Adventure from Baja to the Arctic Circle.
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]]>Over the past year, Egle and Lennart have been traveling in a giant old school tank of an overlanding truck (one of the more unique and truly badass overlanding rigs we've ever seen), across Spain and down into Morocco. The trip required lots of prep. No doubt there were visions at the outset of what a “successful” trip would look like. Though it’s not over, it has provided challenges, and lessons along the way, not to mention a funny moment or two. We recently caught up with Egle and Lennart to learn about the wild places they’ve been. If you love overlanding, or getting outside for any reason, really, this trip report will provide inspiration for your next outing, and a couple pro tips to stash in your memory bank.
We’re Egle (@egleontheroad) and Lennart (@biologist_on_a_bike), two digital nomads with a mission to explore the world overland and tell stories that inspire. On the road for the last 7 + years - first on motorcycles, now in an overland truck with the bikes in the back - we’ve covered the Americas and Europe before setting off to North Africa to test out our newest overland beast, the converted Mercedes 1113 fire truck ready for adventure. While Egle works as a writer and tour designer and Lennart is all about visual storytelling, we both love traveling off the beaten path and staying in nature. Camping is an essential part of travel for us, and the ACLIM8 multitool makse it so much easier whether it’s chopping firewood, repairing something on the truck, or having a handy tool to set up a tent.
Our journey began in the overcast and gray Netherlands in January 2023 when we finally finished the truck build and set out toward Morocco crossing Germany, France, and Spain along the way. Although the start of the journey nearly ended in disaster as our garage floor collapsed scattering our bikes and tools on the road - luckily, we were moving at a very slow speed, and were able to fix the garage fairly quickly - we soon reached Andalusia and spent a few months prepping for the Morocco leg of the journey. We didn’t have a clear plan: we figured we’d either explore Morocco and turn back to travel toward the Balkans and Turkey, or perhaps continue down to Senegal and beyond until we hit a carnet de passage country - but we knew we wanted to see the Riff Mountains, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara Desert following backcountry roads and dirt trails.
To be honest, we were overly optimistic about deadlines and plans. If we were to do this again, we’d plan twice the time to finish the truck build well - rushing it only leads to issues later on - and we’d travel slower to truly appreciate the places we were visiting. Our itinerary and route were flexible which allowed us to pause and recharge every once in a while, but we’ve learned, once again, that plans can change overnight: instead of riding motorcycles in Merzouga, we found ourselves adopting a stray Moroccan dog and taking surfing lessons on the Atlantic Coast:) Regarding gear, having a solid toolkit and spare parts is essential, especially if you’re headed to South America, Central Asia, or Africa. Then again, Moroccan mechanics, we learned, can perform miracles on the roadside with the most meager tools and plenty of ingenuity.
"If we were to do this again, we’d plan twice the time to finish the truck build well - rushing it only leads to issues later on."
The truck is a 4x4 1971 Mercedes LAF 1113B model originally produced as a fire engine in Germany. Having spotted travelers in converted trucks like this one back in Sardinia in 2022, we figured it would be ideal for our purpose - it’s massive enough to have a comfortable living space plus a garage for our two dual-sport motorcycles, and it’s mechanically simple and easy to maintain.
Entering Spain, we skirted the foothills of the Pyrenees and aimed straight for Andalusia to chase sunnier skies and warmer weather. As soon as we hit the Sevillehit Seville area, we slowed down and chose more remote backcountry roads and off-road trails to explore the countryside - and to practice driving the truck on narrow, winding roads to prepare for Morocco.
Aside from a few mechanical issues with the truck, we had to find a new rhythm of traveling and working on the road. Although we’ve invested in a decent quality WiFi booster and router, good internet connection was a constant worry; our garage setup wasn’t quite right, and getting the bikes out and back in was a bit more of a struggle than we expected. Temperatures and altitude is also something to consider - from snowy Pyrenees to the scorching temperatures of the Sahara, we needed to adjust as best as we could. Finally, we learned to keep the daily distances short and the pace slow.
"... keep the daily distances short and the pace slow."
Parked somewhere in a forested area near a river, we were drinking our morning coffee when an elderly gentleman appeared out of of nowhere walking his two German shepherds. At first, we felt a little self-conscious - perhaps we were intruding on his land or his morning walk routine? - but as we started chatting, it turned out he’d spent most of his life traveling, driving military trucks all over Europe and Asia, and motorcycling. He was curious to check out the truck and the bikes, and his parting advice to us was this “enjoy life, have fun, travel far, and remember: if you get arrested, it’s better to go to a Spanish jail rather than a Moroccan one!”. I’m not sure why he’d assumed we might ever have a run-in with the law, but the advice was hilarious coming from a jolly Spanish octogenarian.
“... 'enjoy life, have fun, travel far, and remember: if you get arrested, it’s better to go to a Spanish jail rather than a Moroccan one!'”
We didn’t have a clear route planned, so we loosely followed the Chefchouan - Fes - Casablanca - Marrakesh - Agadir route before looping back. The idea was just to go and see, and we modified the route as we went along, mostly because of the temperatures (Morocco experienced a massive heatwave that spring) and our newest crew member Ziggy, the adopted stray dog.
The language barrier - in Northern Morocco, Spanish is widely spoken, and in the bigger cities, some locals speak English, but in the more rural areas, it’s mostly Arabic, Amazigh (Berber), or French, so we had to communicate in gestures and smiles for a lot of the way. We had a few minor issues with the truck; the crazy temperatures barred us from riding Merzouga.
"... we had to communicate in gestures and smiles for a lot of the way."
Traveling Morocco during the month of Ramadan was a bit of a culture shock: once in Chefchouan, the famous Blue City of the Riff Mountains, Egle was craving a cold beer and went to a hotel bar to get one (in Morocco, alcohol isn’t sold in regular shops or restaurants, only the bigger supermarkets or big-city bars aimed at tourists). During Ramadan, however, the restrictions are even tighter; although the hotel was clearly oriented at Westerners, the staff kindly asked Egle to go down into the cellar and grab a beer from a fridge herself as they weren’t allowed to even touch alcohol during the Ramadan:)
Since our truck is spacious enough to have everything with us - kitchen, fridge, bathroom, and the like - we had less gear than we used to carry on our motorcycles. The COMBAR multitool was fantastic when camping in forested areas, Lennart used the truck and motorcycle tools quite a bit, and the soft Mosko Moto motorcycle luggage came in handy for short day trips on the bikes.
"The COMBAR multitool was fantastic when camping in forested areas..."
For the most part, we used the axe, knife, and saw to chop firewood and hammer down awning pegs. Again, since we have a spacious overlanding truck, we didn’t quite have to battle any elements along the way, but if we were to do any longer motorcycling, hiking, or survival trips, the COMBAR would come in handy in a multitude of ways.
Flexibility is key - while tight schedules and meticulously planned routes might seem like a good idea on paper, plans can change, and the unexpected will inevitably happen. Being able to adapt and pivot as you go along is the most valuable skill of overlanding, and cramming your schedule with too many things can end up in travel burnout.
"Being able to adapt and pivot as you go along is the most valuable skill of overlanding."
For overlanding digital nomads, our advice is to take it easy - if you’ve got too many projects, the travel part will suffer; being realistic about what you want to do and what you actually can do is extremely important. It absolutely is possible to combine living on the road and working remotely, but you’ve got to find balance, take time off, and just enjoy the road.
As for couple traveling tips, we’ve learned that the best way to work as a team is…division of labor :) Lennart does the driving, the truck maintenance, the socializing, and the dishes, while Egle is focused on income, cooking, route ideas, and rum cocktails. It’s also really important to just focus on each other rather than the trip sometimes, throw all plans out the window, and spend a couple of days lounging on a beach, surfing, reading, or doing absolutely nothing at all and not feeling guilty about it.
"... the best way to work as a team is…division of labor :)"
Where are you heading next? What can people who are following along look forward to?
For now, we’re back in Andalusia for a year of regrouping and recharging. We’ve rented a small countryside house in the mountains, parked the truck, and decided to slow down a little before we hit the road again. The initial idea was to circumnavigate Africa or head toward Australia within a year or two, but for now, we’re focused on having a bit of a base and doing shorter, two-week or month-long trips in India, Croatia, and Thailand instead of constantly living on the road.
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Where are you packing your COMBAR for this summer? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss an update from Drew and our other ambassadors who are criss-crossing the world putting their gear through its paces.
Want to read more of our Partner Spotlights? Check out Diary of a Hunting Photographer: Ibex in Spain, Mule Deer in Mexico, and Mountain Lions in Idaho.
Want to learn more about UTVing—Drew’s means of accessing remote mountain lion country? Check out What Is UTVing: Fundamental Skills, Gear, and How to Get Started.
Want more trip inspiration for the summer ahead? Check out A Family Overlanding Adventure from Baja to the Arctic Circle.
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First, what exactly is dispersed camping? Unlike traditional campgrounds with designated spots and facilities, dispersed camping offers a more "primitive" camping experience. It involves setting up your tent or parking your rig in less developed areas of public land—national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, or other public lands—typically away from established campgrounds. It's the perfect way for mountain bikers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of these iconic destinations while being closer to the trails they love. Seclusion, scenery, and proximity to the trails? Sign me up.
Let's get started. Here are five iconic MTB spots where you can camp for free nearby.
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Moab, nestled in the red rock wonderland of southeastern Utah, is a mecca for mountain biking enthusiasts. You may remember us mentioning this location in our previous blog, 5 Iconic Dirt Biking Destinations in the US and their Terrain Difficulties. This is the perfect spot for tour outdoor enthusiasts on two wheels for sure!
The city of Moab boasts an array of exhilarating trails suitable for all levels of riders. The famous Slickrock Trail, with its challenging sandstone terrain, provides a heart-pounding adventure. For an even more adrenaline-fueled experience, the Whole Enchilada trail offers a thrilling descent through varying landscapes and elevations.
After a day of epic rides through this red desert, you can find some great dispersed camping spots along the Colorado River. Wake up to stunning views of the surrounding canyons and mesas, and savor the beauty of the starlit night sky – a truly unforgettable experience for any nature lover.
Staying over on the western side of the United States, Sedona, Arizona, is renowned for its striking red rock formations and enchanting desert landscapes. Beyond its undeniable beauty, Sedona offers an extensive network of mountain biking trails that cater to all skill levels. For more beginner rides, we recommend The Bell Rock Pathway as a great starting place for tackling the trails out in Sedona. If you’re looking for something that is beginner but challenges you a little more, the Templeton Trail provides a great introduction to the region's unique terrain. For our more experienced riders, they can challenge themselves on the Highline Trail.
In Sedona, dispersed camping in the Coconino National Forest is a real treasure. As the sun sets over the red rocks, the views from your campsite are nothing short of breathtaking. The tranquility of the desert night makes for a memorable camping experience under a blanket of stars. Make sure to keep up to date with the forest service, to check what areas are currently open to dispersed camping!
Moving a little further out from the desert, Crested Butte, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is a utopia for mountain biking enthusiasts. Boasting over 750 miles of trails, the town offers something for everyone. Crested Butte is situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, providing access to high alpine terrain. As you venture into the mountains, you'll encounter stunning vistas, lush meadows, and towering peaks. The high-altitude trails offer a unique experience, with thinner air and potential weather changes, adding an extra layer of excitement and challenge to your rides, with these added challenges it is important to stay prepared.
The area offers an impressive variety of trails, from smooth and flowy singletracks to rugged and challenging descents, ensuring there's something for riders of all skill levels and preferences. From thrilling downhill tracks like the Evolution Bike Park to scenic rides along the Lupine Trail.
Dispersed camping in the Gunnison National Forest allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Rockies. With a sense of seclusion and a backdrop of majestic peaks, you'll find yourself reinvigorated and ready to hit the trails again come morning.
For those on the East Coast seeking an unforgettable mountain biking experience, Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina is a must-visit destination. Renowned for its rugged trails and lush greenery, Pisgah offers an exciting range of options for mountain bikers. Whether it's the challenging Black Mountain Trail or the exhilarating downhill ride on Farlow Gap, Pisgah promises an unforgettable adventure.
Pisgah National Forest is a fantastic place for dispersed camping, the forest encompasses rugged mountains, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and an array of diverse flora and fauna. Dispersed camping allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in this beauty, waking up to breathtaking views and being surrounded by nature at its finest. The forest offers numerous dispersed camping spots, granting mountain bikers the opportunity to reconnect with nature in this stunning wilderness. Falling asleep to the sounds of the forest and waking up to the sweet smell of pine is an unmatched experience that fuels the spirit of exploration.
Last but not least, the Tahoe Rim Trail, straddling the border of California and Nevada, offers an incredible mountain biking experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of Lake Tahoe. This trail differs from the ones we mentioned above as the trail circles the lake, providing a diverse range of terrains and challenges. From smooth, flowing sections to technical climbs, riders can revel in the trail's diversity.
With dispersed camping available along the trail, riders can pause and rest at their own pace, camping in serene spots surrounded by the splendor of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The shimmering blue waters of Lake Tahoe create a backdrop of unmatched beauty and tranquility.
As we conclude our journey through these five iconic mountain biking destinations in the US, we're left in awe of the beauty and diversity each location offers. From the red rock wonderland of Moab, Utah, to the rugged trails of Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, every destination has its unique charm and adventure to offer.
Dispersed camping, being in harmony with nature, and indulging in the thrill of mountain biking, creates an unbeatable combination for those seeking a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. So, grab your mountain bike, pitch your tent, and set out to explore these incredible locations. Let the trails be your guide as you discover the beauty and excitement of dispersed camping in some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States.
Before you embark on your adventure, remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles, respect the natural environment, and preserve these pristine areas for generations to come.
Now, go share these tips and destinations with your fellow mountain biking enthusiasts, and inspire others to embark on their own mountain biking and dispersed camping escapades. The world awaits—let's ride!
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Did we leave your favorite mountain biking destination off the list? Let us hear it on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Looking for more mountain biking content? Want to learn more about trail maintenance? Check out 7 Essential Tools for Mountain Biking Trail Maintenance, According to a Mountain Biker.
Ready to take your packing game to the next level? Check out 5 Ways to Mount your COMBAR on your Dirt Bike or ADV Motorcycle.
Want to get inspired to take a multi-night motorbike mission? Check out Overlanding Down Under: An Adventure Motorbike Trip Across Australia.
]]>Trail maintenance is the process of maintaining the usability and sustainability of our trail systems through a whole slew of activities including removing downed trees and reinforcing eroded sections of trail. For mountain bike trails this can include fixing worn down jumps or elevated wooden bridges, too. Trail maintenance is done mostly by volunteers and can be done by anyone. We highly encourage you to join a local trail maintenance organization if you haven’t already (just Google “trail maintenance volunteer group” and the region you live in). Repairing and protecting trails provides benefits to both bikers and the environment—it’s about our trails’ usability and sustainability, remember. But sawing logs and building berms requires a specialized set of tools. In this blog, we will explore seven essential tools for mountain biking trail maintenance, according to a professional mountain biker.
Even if you don’t perform trail maintenance regularly, these seven tools are worth keeping in your truck bed or trunk, just in case you go riding and come across a trail hazard that needs to be taken care of.
Let’s go!
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Jameson (@jamesonflorence) is a former carpenter turned stay at home father, and a friend of ACLIM8! He is an ardent mountain biker who has been mountain biking since the age of five and finds solace in the rugged terrain and the thrill of conquering challenging trails. He is not just a passionate rider, he also takes on the responsibility of trail maintenance with great enthusiasm. For Jameson, maintaining the trails means giving back to the mountain biking community that has given him so much joy and fulfillment.
We totally agree!
We will be hearing from Jameson below regarding these essential tools, including his favorite tools, and his insights on the nuances of trail maintenance.
So let’s get to it. Here are seven essential tools that can help you maintain your favorite mountain biking trails:
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The Mcleod tool is arguably one of the most versatile and widely used tools for trail maintenance. This ingenious combination of a rake and a hoe allows trail builders to clear debris, cut overgrown vegetation, and shape the trail surface. Its flat side effectively levels the ground, while the rake-like tines on the other side help remove rocks, leaves, and loose soil. The Mcleod tool is an item you'll absolutely find in Jameson’s trail maintenance tool kit! This is an essential part of any trail maintenance kit due to its simplicity, durability, and ability to tackle a wide range of trail maintenance tasks.
When it comes to trail maintenance, a reliable hand saw is indispensable. It's the go-to tool for cutting through fallen branches, small trees, and overgrown vegetation that obstructs the path.
Hand saws are lightweight, easy to use, and their compact size allows trail builders to navigate tight spots while they fine tune the trail's natural flow. A good hand saw is a must-have for any trail maintenance crew to swiftly address smaller obstacles that may hinder the mountain biking experience.
For larger obstructions such as fallen trees or thick vegetation, a chainsaw becomes the trail builder's best friend. While chainsaws are more potent tools that require careful handling and safety precautions, they are essential for tackling heavy-duty tasks.
Chainsaws are essential for swamping—a common trail maintenance tasks, that includes moving the logs out of the way, cleaning up after treadwork and brushing tasks have been completed.
The use of chainsaws makes quick work of clearing major blockages, allowing the trail to remain open and accessible to mountain bikers. However, it is crucial to have trained and experienced personnel handling chainsaws to ensure the safety of the crew and the environment.
This essential tool can be found as apart of the Mcleod but having a rake of its own in your tool kit is essential if you do not own a Mcleod. Rakes are ideal for smoothing out the trail surface, removing rocks, and filling in holes and ruts. They are especially handy after using the Mcleod tool to ensure the trail is level and clear of loose debris. A well-groomed trail provides a smoother and safer ride for mountain bikers, and the humble rake is instrumental in achieving that.
While a chainsaw is excellent for larger obstructions, a hatchet serves as a more precise cutting tool. Trail builders use hatchets to trim branches and clear away smaller obstacles. They also use hatchets for starting larger cuts that are finished with a chainsaw. This tool is also essential for shaping natural features like log jumps and wooden features, enhancing the overall mountain biking experience. Hatchets are typically compact and easy to carry, like the COMBAR FoldaXe, making them a valuable addition to a trail maintenance toolkit.
A hammer might seem like an unconventional tool for trail maintenance, but it plays a crucial role in fixing trail markers, signposts, and other structures along the route. Trail maintenance isn't just about cutting and clearing; it's also about building and maintaining structures that improve the trail. A hammer is crucial for constructing and repairing wooden features like bridges, ramps, and steps. It allows trail builders to secure nails and fasteners, ensuring these structures remain safe and stable for riders. The hammer's versatility in trail construction and repair makes it an essential tool in the hands of dedicated trail maintenance crews.
Jameson: “Riders who have fun will generally remember the experience. But leave a tree there or a brushy spot and that can be enough to sour the experience for a lot of people even if a majority of the trail is clear.”
Above all else, safety should be the top priority during trail maintenance. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for protecting the trail builders from potential hazards. PPE includes helmets, gloves, safety glasses, sturdy footwear, and ear protection. Chainsaw operators should also wear protective chaps and helmets with face shields. Properly equipped with PPE, trail maintenance crews can work confidently and efficiently while minimizing the risk of injuries.
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Jameson, a full send athlete, knows the significance of trail maintenance in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for riders like himself. With these seven essential tools—shovel, hand saw, chainsaw, rake, hatchet, hammer, and PPE—he takes on the responsibility of maintaining the trails with dedication and enthusiasm. By following his lead and investing in these essential tools, every mountain biker can contribute to the preservation and sustainability of their favorite trails. Let's come together as a community and share these tips to keep the mountain biking adventure alive and thriving for generations to come.
If you're an avid mountain biker like Jameson, take the initiative to invest in these essential trail maintenance tools. And if you’re trying to save space, check out the COMBAR, it combines quite a few of the essentials above and can be a great tool to keep in your pack. By sharing this blog with your fellow riders, you can inspire others to join the cause of preserving and improving our mountain biking trails. Together, we can create a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone who loves the great outdoors and the thrill of mountain biking. Happy riding and happy trail maintenance!
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Did we leave out your favorite tool? Let us hear it on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Looking for more information about the COMBAR Titanium vs the Foldaxe? Check out COMBAR Titanium vs. COMBAR FoldaXe: Which Multitool Is Right For You?
Ready to plan your next mountain biking trip? Start by consulting this: US Wildfire Frequency by Region and Month: A Guide for Smart Trip Planning
Want to know how to mount your COMBAR onto your bike? Check out The Ultimate Guide: How to Securely Attach and Store Your Multitool on a Bikepacking Bike
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]]>Before picking a destination for your outdoor adventure, ask yourself this: How likely is it that there will be wildfires burning in the region I want to travel to? If the answer is “very likely” then you might want to pick a different spot.
This blog is a guide for smarter outdoor trip planning during wildfire season. It includes a heat map of wildfire frequency in the US by region and month. This is your cheat sheet for knowing where you can go to have the best odds of avoiding smokey or downright dangerous conditions. (Bookmark this page for reference anytime you’re planning an adventure in the US during wildfire season.)
We’ve also compiled tips for wildfire-aware trip planning, and answers to fundamental questions about wildfire preparedness. Our goal is to provide you with an overall grasp of how wildfires are caused, when they happen, and how you can avoid starting one.
Being conscious of how wildfire risks change with the seasons is especially important when planning for big events, such as July 4th camping trips, Labor Day adventures, or your next big summer road trip. And once you’ve picked an ideal destination, always (ALWAYS) check the current wildfire conditions in the area before you commit to going.
Okay, let’s get to it.
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Wildfires can be caused by natural factors, human factors, or a combination of the two. Natural causes include climate conditions like lightning strikes, prolonged droughts, high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. Human activities also play a significant role in igniting wildfires in the United States, such as unattended campfires, discarded cigarettes, fireworks, and equipment sparks. Sometimes climate conditions and neglectful human activities occur simultaneously, under which circumstances wildfires can be particularly devastating.
Wildfire season varies across different regions of the United States due to differences in climate and vegetation. Generally, wildfire seasons are more prevalent during periods of hot, dry weather, which varies based on geographic location. In some regions, such as the western states, the peak wildfire season typically occurs in the late summer and early fall when vegetation is at its driest. However, wildfire activity may peak during different months depending on climate patterns and weather anomalies. It is important to consult local authorities and resources specific to the region you are in or planning to visit to determine the wildfire season's timing and potential risks. *Further resources below*
Wildfires are a significant concern in the United States, affecting various regions differently. We mainly hear about wildfires in the dry regions, specifically in the forests near the Southwest, but every region can be affected. The frequency and severity of wildfires vary due to differences in climate, vegetation, and human population density. California, in particular, has been heavily impacted by wildfires in recent years due to drier climates and vast forested areas. Other regions, like the Southeast, face frequent, but also less predictable wildfire challenges. Wildfires can happen in any season, and understanding the regional variations in wildfire prevalence and the current climate conditions of your destination is crucial for trip planning and responsible outdoor recreation.
As we have said, forest fires start from various sources, both natural and human-related. Human activities that contribute to forest fires are mostly preventable. To be responsible while recreating and prevent starting a forest fire:
By practicing responsible behaviors, we can significantly reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our natural environment.
Camping during active wildfire season requires careful consideration and adherence to guidelines provided by local authorities and land management agencies. Here are some rules of thumb and best practices:
Long story short, yes, you can camp near active wildfires if you can bear the smoke, but be responsible! By being responsible and adaptable, you can still enjoy camping experiences while respecting the risks posed by ongoing wildfires.
To enhance your trip planning process with wildfire awareness, here are some great tips, tools, and resources:
By incorporating these tips into your trip planning process, you can make informed decisions, prioritize safety, and minimize the potential impact of wildfires on your outdoor adventures.
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When preparing for your next trip, it's essential to consider the heat map below, which highlights the peak wildfire seasons in each region of America. This valuable resource allows you to plan and prepare accordingly, taking into account the weather conditions and air quality for a safe and enjoyable experience. Our recommendation? Avoid the red squares on the chart. Once you find a suitable destination, research the specifics—current conditions, etc.
Wildfires pose significant challenges to outdoor recreation and the natural environment. By understanding the causes of wildfires, regional variations in prevalence, responsible recreation practices, and trip planning considerations, we can engage in outdoor activities while minimizing risks and promoting wildfire prevention. It is crucial to stay informed, follow regulations, and prioritize safety when planning and embarking on outdoor adventures. By fostering a wildfire-aware mindset, we can protect our cherished landscapes, support firefighting efforts, and ensure the enjoyment of outdoor recreation for generations to come.
National Interagency Fire Center: https://www.nifc.gov/
Ready.gov Wildfires: https://www.ready.gov/wildfires
National Fire Protection Association: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Wildfire
Remember, staying informed and taking necessary precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip amidst the potential risks posed by wildfires.
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How do you prepare for your upcoming trips? Let us hear it on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Want more wilderness and survival tips? Check out 4 Alternative Fire-Starting Techniques from a Survivalist and Overlander. (Use these responsibly!)
Ready to uplevel your campfire-making skills? Check out How to Make Perfect Campfire Kindling Using your Basic Survival Tools.
Looking for overlanding pro tips? Check out Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit.
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]]>Whether you're an experienced bikepacker or a beginner looking for your next adventure, these five routes offer incredible journeys through wild stretches of North America. For each route, we offer a summary of the ride, including how many days it typically takes. Consider this a menu of trips. When you're ready to order, the resources included are great jumping off points for starting your internet deep dive on a specific location. Let's dive into the top bikepacking routes in the US.
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Located in the Pacific Northwest, the Olympic Bridges Overnighter is a fantastic two-day bikepacking trip that takes you through the stunning Olympic National Park in Washington state. This route covers approximately 50 miles and offers a diverse range of terrains, from lush rainforests to awe-inspiring alpine vistas. Highlights of the journey include crossing iconic bridges, such as the Sol Duc River Bridge and the Quinault River Bridge, which provide photo-worthy views of the surrounding wilderness. With its well-maintained trails and scenic camping spots, this route is perfect for those seeking a short yet rewarding adventure.
For a longer and more challenging bikepacking experience, embark on the Queen’s Ransom route. Spanning 4 to 6 days, this trail starts in Durango, Colorado, takes you through the majestic Rocky Mountains, and ends in beautiful Moab, Utah. This iconic route covers approximately 200 miles, passing through some of the most renowned mountain biking destinations, including the famous Colorado Trail and the stunning desert landscapes of Moab (so if you're bikepacking on an MTB bike, this is a great route). Along the way, riders will be rewarded with views of snow-capped peaks and vast canyons. Some steep descents will get your blood flowing, too. The Queen’s Ransom offers a test of endurance and is sure to satisfy even the most seasoned bikepacking enthusiasts.
For those seeking an epic and immersive bikepacking adventure, look no further than the Arizona Trail. Stretching over 800 miles from the Mexican border to the Utah state line, this 21-day journey showcases the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. The trail traverses diverse landscapes, from the Sonoran Desert to alpine forests and the iconic Grand Canyon. Riders will encounter challenging climbs, technical descents, and remote stretches that test their skills and resilience. Along the way, the Arizona Trail treats bikepackers to mesmerizing sunsets, unique wildlife sightings, and if you're riding in good company, the camaraderie of fellow adventurers. This route is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
For a truly off-the-beaten-path bikepacking experience, set your sights on the Baja Divide in Mexico. This 1,700-mile route takes approximately 42 days to complete and showcases the rugged beauty of the Baja California Peninsula. Starting in San Diego, California, and ending in La Paz, Baja California Sur, riders will navigate through a diverse range of landscapes, including desert dunes, pristine beaches, and remote mountain ranges. The Baja Divide offers a unique cultural experience as well, allowing bikepackers to interact with local communities and savor authentic Mexican cuisine. This demanding and adventurous route promises an unforgettable journey through one of North America's most captivating regions.
The TransAmerica Trail is the quintessential cross-country bikepacking route, spanning over 4,200 miles from the coast of Oregon to the shores of Virginia. This iconic route takes you through a diverse range of American landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest to the rolling hills of the Midwest and the picturesque farmlands of the East Coast. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns, historical landmarks, and detour-worthy national parks. The TransAmerica Trail offers a truly immersive journey, allowing you to witness the vastness and diversity of the United States, all while testing your physical and mental endurance.
Embarking on a bikepacking adventure is an exhilarating way to explore North America. From the Olympic Bridges Overnighter in Washington to the TransAmerica Trail spanning the country, each route offers a unique experience. Here's a tip, though: start small.
It's tempting to see an epic cross-country odyssey and want to start riding, like, now. But you'll want to get familiar with your gear, dial in your packing systems, and get in good shape before you start pedaling down the highway.
Like with any long-distance outdoor adventure, the separation is in the preparation. In other words, you'll want to map your route, get your gear, and have the journey well planned in advance of your departure. But often the inspiration comes first, so bookmark this page and pull it up when you're pitching your adventure buddies on an epic bikepacking adventure. Once you're committed, start the prep.
Whether you're a seasoned bikepacker looking for your next challenge or a beginner who's eager to explore, keep these five routes on your radar.
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Which of these routes do you most want to do? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Dialing in your bikepacking gear? Check out The Ultimate Guide: How to Securely Mount Your COMBAR on a Bikepacking Bike.
Want more two-wheeled content? Check out Why You Should Never Go Dirt Biking Without a COMBAR.
Ready to up-level your camping setup? Check out How to Make Perfect Campfire Kindling Using your Basic Survival Tools.
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One such piece of multifunctional gear is the COMBAR, a heavy-duty multitool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. With its hammer, hatchet, spade, knife, and saw, the COMBAR is a versatile companion for bikepackers. However, securely attaching and storing the COMBAR on your bike requires a little know-how to ensure accessibility and safety. In this article, we will delve both into methods for attaching a multitool to your bike and locations on your bike where you can securely attach it.
Below is a range of mounting methods that will let you securely fasten your COMBAR to your bike frame. Consider these the first half of your mental mounting toolkit—the How. We'll look at ski straps, zip ties, Molle straps, and a dedicated case, and discuss the pros and cons of each, helping you choose the best method for your bikepacking mission.
Ski straps offer a convenient and adjustable method for attaching the COMBAR to your bike. The flexibility of ski straps allows you to mount the tool on various parts of your bike frame. Pros of using ski straps include their durability, ease of use, and compatibility with different frame shapes. They're also soft and stretchy, which helps protect your bike frame and gear with points of supple cushion. However, it's important to note that ski straps can loosen a little bit over the course of a day. They may require periodic readjustment and can be slightly less secure than other attachment methods.
Zip ties are a cost-effective and straightforward option for securing your COMBAR to your bike. They provide a tight and secure attachment, ensuring that your multitool stays in place during your bikepacking journey. The advantages of zip ties include their affordability, lightweight nature, and simplicity. However, keep in mind that zip ties are typically single-use and may require cutting and replacing when accessing the COMBAR.
If your bikepacking setup includes Molle webbing or attachment points, Molle straps can be an excellent choice for securing the COMBAR. Molle straps are highly versatile and offer a secure attachment method, ensuring that your multitool stays firmly in place. Many bikepackers want a case with Molle attachment points, like the COMBAR™ CASE. The COMBAR Case is designed with versatility in mind, so it's compatible with Molle straps. The benefits of Molle straps include their adjustability, compatibility with various Molle systems, and reliable stability. However, you will need a bikepacking setup that includes Molle attachment points to utilize this method effectively.
Using a dedicated case for your COMBAR provides the utmost protection and organization. The COMBAR case is a well-designed case that can securely hold your multitool and prevent it from getting damaged or lost during your bikepacking trips. Cases often feature additional compartments to store other small essentials, keeping everything organized in one place. However, it's important to consider the added weight and bulkiness of a case, which may impact your overall bikepacking experience.
Finding the perfect location to securely attach and store your COMBAR on your bike is crucial for a successful bikepacking adventure. The right mounting location ensures easy access to your multitool while minimizing interference with other gear and maintaining overall bike balance. In this section, we will explore a variety of mounting locations that offer different advantages. Whether you prefer the top tube, bottom tube, handlebars, saddlebags, or even a backpack attachment, we will discuss the pros and cons of each option.
Mounting the COMBAR on the top tube of your bike frame offers easy accessibility and keeps the tool within arm's reach. This location allows for quick access during emergencies or whenever you need to use the multitool on the go. However, the top tube position may interfere with the space needed for other bikepacking gear, such as frame bags or water bottle cages.
Attaching the COMBAR to the bottom tube provides a secure and out-of-the-way location. This placement ensures that the multitool is less exposed to external elements and potential theft. The bottom tube position also helps distribute weight evenly across the bike, maintaining stability during your bikepacking adventure. However, keep in mind that the lower position may limit accessibility, especially if you have a full suspension or a bike with limited clearance.
Mounting the COMBAR on your handlebars offers a prominent and easily accessible location. This placement is ideal if you prefer having your multitool within immediate reach while riding. However, attaching the COMBAR to the handlebars might interfere with your hand positions and limit the space available for other essential bikepacking accessories, such as lights or a GPS.
If you utilize saddlebags for your bikepacking setup, attaching the COMBAR to the outside of the bags can be a viable option. This position ensures that the multitool is readily accessible and does not take up valuable space on your bike frame. Additionally, the COMBAR remains well-protected within the saddlebags during your bikepacking journey. However, the external placement might increase the overall width of your bike, potentially causing clearance issues in narrow spaces.
For bikepackers who prefer carrying their tools on their person, attaching the COMBAR to a backpack is a practical solution. This method ensures that the multitool is always within reach, even when you are off the bike. Additionally, a backpack provides flexibility in terms of tool placement and can accommodate other personal belongings. Consider using the COMBAR case to help prevent any accidental punctures or cuts within your backpack. However, keep in mind that the added weight on your back might affect your balance and comfort, especially during longer rides.
When it comes to securely attaching and storing your COMBAR on a bikepacking bike, there are various methods and locations to consider. Ski straps, zip ties, Molle straps, and dedicated cases offer different advantages and drawbacks. Similarly, choosing between mounting locations such as the top tube, bottom tube, handlebars, saddlebags, or backpack depends on your preference likely uses. Remember to prioritize accessibility, protection, and compatibility with other gear when making your selection. By carefully considering the options outlined in this guide, you can find the perfect combination of method and location to ensure your COMBAR is securely attached and readily available for all your bikepacking adventures.
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What is the optimal method for carrying your COMBAR while bikepacking? Let us hear it on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Want more biking content? Check out Why You Should Never Go Dirt Biking Without a COMBAR.
Ready to uplevel your at-camp skills? Check out How to Make Perfect Campfire Kindling Using your Basic Survival Tools.
Want to get inspired to take a multi-night motorbike mission? Check out Overlanding Down Under: An Adventure Motorbike Trip Across Australia.
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]]>The United States is blessed with a diverse landscape that offers some of the most iconic dirt biking destinations in the world. From breathtaking mountains to vast deserts, each location presents unique challenges and experiences for riders of all skill levels. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through five must-visit dirt biking locations in the United States, noting the general difficulty level of the terrain in each. These are locations that can accommodate single-day or multi-day dirt biking trips. Consult this list during your trip-planning phase, and the trails you’ll explore promise to be some of the nation’s best.
Nestled in the heart of the red rock desert, Moab, Utah, is truly a dirt biking mecca. This iconic destination offers a myriad of trails that cater to riders of all abilities. Beginners can start their dirt biking journey on trails like Gemini Bridges or Seven Mile Rim, which provide a taste of the stunning desert scenery and mild challenges. For the more experienced riders seeking an adrenaline rush, the legendary Slickrock Trail offers a technical and demanding experience like no other. With its unique combination of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling trails, Moab is a must-visit for every dirt biking enthusiast.
For those seeking a true off-road adventure, the Mojave Road is the perfect destination. This historic trail winds through the Mojave Desert, spanning both California and Nevada, and offers a diverse mix of terrains, including sandy washes, rocky sections, and challenging hill climbs. This nearly 150-mile long road can be ridden in sections or as one long, epic adventure motorcycle journey. Pick your poison. As you traverse this iconic route, you'll encounter well-known landmarks such as California’s dense Joshua Tree forests and ancient lava tubes. Intermediate to expert riders will find their skills tested as they navigate through the unforgiving desert landscape. The Mojave Road is not just a dirt biking journey, it's a thrilling exploration of untamed wilderness.
Located in the picturesque Appalachian foothills, Wayne National Forest surprises riders with its hidden dirt biking gems. With over 100 miles of designated trails, this destination offers a variety of dirt biking routes for riders of all levels. Beginners can enjoy scenic and moderately challenging trails like the Hanging Rock Loop or Pine Creek Loop, where they can immerse themselves in the beauty of Ohio's forests. Advanced riders seeking more technical and demanding trails can tackle the likes of Stone Church (praise be!) or Monday Creek (the good ‘case of the Mondays’) Trails. Wayne National Forest proves that top-notch dirt biking adventures can be found in unexpected places.
Prepare to be captivated by the majestic beauty of Sawtooth National Forest in Idaho. With its towering peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, this destination provides a stunning backdrop for a dirt biking mission. Intermediate to expert riders will relish the challenges presented by trails like Fisher Creek, Fourth of July, and the legendary Big Smoky Trail. From steep climbs to technical descents, Sawtooth National Forest offers a true test of skill and endurance. Immerse yourself in this rugged wilderness and you’ll find yourself fueled by adrenaline (and gasoline).
For those seeking the ultimate off-the-grid dirt biking experience, the Denali Highway in Alaska is an unparalleled destination. Like the Mojave Road, this is a long route (135 miles) where motorcycle traverses are often of the ADV variety. But for those who prefer to pack light and ride fast, it’s more than doable on a dirtbike. This remote and rugged stretch of road offers jaw-dropping views of mountains, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. While not exclusively designed for dirt biking, the unpaved sections of the Denali Highway provide an exciting opportunity to ride through untamed wilderness. It is essential to come prepared with appropriate gear, provisions, and a sense of adventure to tackle this epic journey. Check out Why You Should Never Go Dirt Biking Without a COMBAR. The Denali Highway is a bucket-list destination that will leave your gas tank empty and your memory bank overflowing.
As you plan your next dirt biking expedition, and the one after that, start by pulling up this list. These five iconic dirt biking destinations are the crème de la crème of places to ride in the US. From the awe-inspiring red rock trails of Moab, Utah, to the rugged Mojave Road cutting through the California and Nevada deserts, these destinations have something to offer riders of all levels. So, what are you waiting for? Send out that APB to Braap-aholics Anonymous and start building your packing list. And when it comes time to hit the road, make sure your COMBAR Pro is along for the ride. Not sure how to bring it along, here are 5 Ways to Mount your COMBAR on your DIrt Bike or ADV Motorcycle. It’s the multitool that ADVers and dirt bikers have come to cherish for how adaptable it makes them on the trail, on the road, and at camp. And when you have supreme trust in your gear, there’s nothing left to do but explore.
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Did we leave your dream dirt biking destination off the list? Let us hear it on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Want to be a more prepared rider? Check out Why You Should Never Go Dirt Biking Without a COMBAR.
Ready to take your packing game to the next level? Check out 5 Ways to Mount your COMBAR on your DIrt Bike or ADV Motorcycle.
Want to get inspired to take a multi-night motorbike mission? Check out Overlanding Down Under: An Adventure Motorbike Trip Across Australia.
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Molle straps offer a versatile and secure mounting solution for your COMBAR. These mini bungee cords, or adjustable fastening straps come in many shapes and sizes. Many dirt bike riders opt for a tactical-style case with Molle attachment points, like the COMBAR™ CASE. The COMBAR Case is designed with versatility in mind, so it's compatible with Molle straps. This compatibility provides users with a convenient and customizable carrying solution for their essential tools and equipment. These cases can be attached to various locations on your bike, such as the front fork, rear rack, handlebars or saddle bags. Simply thread the Molle straps through the case loops and secure them tightly to the desired location. If you prefer a more minimalist approach, you can tie the COMBAR down directly (no case) using Molle straps to secure it to your bike.
Mounting the COMBAR directly on your handlebars ensures quick and easy access to this essential tool, this can also allow for more space in your bags. Use durable and adjustable straps to secure the COMBAR to the handlebars, ensuring a snug fit. Additionally, this mounting position is a convenient choice for easy accessibility. If you anticipate doing a lot of trail clearing or quick repairs, this method is a useful option.
If you have panniers or saddlebags on your dirt bike or ADV motorcycle, utilizing the available storage space is an excellent option to keep your COMBAR safe and protected. Saddlebags make it easy—just find a bag with enough space and slide it in. Ensure proper organization within the pannier to prevent damage or scratches to your COMBAR, and consider using additional padding or a dedicated tool roll for added protection, if you’re not using the COMBAR Case. We recommend placing it near the top of the pannier, so it’s easily accessible when needed. This method, panniers and saddlebag storage, is ideal for riders who prefer to keep their bikes clutter-free and value the added protection of enclosed storage compartments.
For riders seeking a space-efficient solution, integrating the COMBAR with other gear items can be a smart approach. One effective method is to wrap the COMBAR within a lightweight sleeping pad or a similar flexible gear item. If you’re going to roll anything up and tie it to your bike’s saddle, you can probably roll the COMBAR up inside it. Secure your bundle using compression straps or bungee cords and attach it to the designated mounting points on your bike, such as the rear rack or frame. This method optimizes space utilization while still ensuring easy access to your COMBAR, along with giving your COMBAR a padded case during those bumpy off-road rides!
Carrying the COMBAR in your backpack is a reliable option, especially if you prefer to have all your essential tools and gear in one place. Place the COMBAR in a dedicated pocket or sleeve inside your backpack, ensuring it is well-protected, won’t fall out, and won't cause discomfort during your ride. Additionally, consider the weight distribution within your backpack to maintain balance and comfort while riding.
There’s no one right way to mount your COMBAR to your motorcycle. You can strap it just about anywhere. How technical you want to be with your method of carry is completely up to you. But however you mount it—whether you choose to use molle straps, tie it to your handlebars, store it in your panniers, wrap it with other gear, or keep it in your backpack—having your COMBAR secured on your dirt bike or ADV motorcycle is essential to ensure accessibility and convenience during your off-road adventures. Consider your personal preferences, riding style, and how likely you are to be reaching for your COMBAR repeatedly. And for the sake of all things holy, don’t leave it sitting on your truck’s dashboard at the trailhead. It won’t do anyone any good, there.
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How would you carry your COMBAR when dirt biking or ADVing? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Looking for more dirt bike tips? Check out Why You Should Never Go Dirt Biking Without a COMBAR.
Want more ADV content? Check out Why the COMBAR is an Essential Piece of ADV Gear, explained by an ADVer).
Want to get inspired to take a multi-night motorbike mission? Check out Overlanding Down Under: An Adventure Motorbike Trip Across Australia.
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In an effort to be Triumphant Person #1 and not Defeated Person #2, there are things you always pack, right? Your boots and helmet, goggles, protective outerwear, mechanical repair kit, backpack, first aid essentials, navigation—these are always with you. Well, add the COMBAR Pro to your list of dirt biking essentials.
The COMBAR Pro is a large-format multitool that combines the functionality of a heavy-duty hammer, hatchet, spade, knife, and saw into a single, compact device. You can imagine how useful it is across any number of unpredictable dirt biking scenarios. In this article, we explore six crucial uses for the COMBAR when dirt biking—compelling reasons why you should never hit the dirt bike trail without one. Let’s get to it.
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Dirt bike trails are often filled with fallen branches, overgrown foliage, and other obstacles that can impede your progress. With its hatchet and saw, the COMBAR equips you with the necessary tools to clear your path. The saw easily rips through thick branches or small logs, while the hatchet enables you to cut through even larger obstacles, or get a head start on a downed tree before finishing the job with the saw. If you need extra oomph to roll something off the trail, like a stump, log, or rock, the titanium spade on the COMBAR can be deployed 180º into a straight position, giving you the leverage you need. Especially during early-season rides, trail obstacles are abundant. While the COMBAR can’t manage massive trees like a chainsaw can, it’s a lightweight alternative to larger hatchets and saws you might otherwise lug out there.
Dirt bike rims are susceptible to damage when subjected to intense off-road conditions, like that rock you didn’t see coming and bashed into at thirty miles an hour. A bent (or taco’ed) rim can compromise your bike's performance and pose safety risks. If it’s bad enough, you’ll have to stop and fix it on the spot, at least getting it into a rideable shape. The COMBAR's heavy-duty hammer provides the ideal solution for straightening a taco’ed rim. Its robust construction allows you to exert sufficient force to reshape the rim, enabling you to continue your ride. And you can be way more precise than with a rock.
Getting stuck in mud, sand, or other boggy terrain is a common occurrence when dirt biking, especially in the spring or fall months, or in naturally damp environments. COMBAR comes to the rescue yet again, offering a versatile solution. The spade can be easily deployed to dig out a stuck tire or create a runway behind a tire that’s buried in sand. You can also use it to flatten an area for a traction board. The heavy-duty hammer can be used as a mallet to drive traction boards into the ground, providing your bike with the necessary grip to escape.
A flat tire is an unfortunate but not uncommon mishap when off-roading. In this situation, the COMBAR can be used as an improvised jack and tire lever. It can also be used as a bike stand. If you don’t want to lay your heavy, expensive bike against the ground, you can lean it against the COMBAR (beats looking for a stick). And if you need to keep a tire off the ground, you can extend the spade 180º and wedge it between the bike and the ground to create a lift. Its robust construction allows you to lift your bike off the ground securely, providing the necessary clearance to replace the tire. The spade on the COMBAR can also double as a tire lever, assisting you in removing the old tire and mounting the new one quickly and efficiently.
If you’re riding hard (or, also, if you’re not, tbh) your bike will be subject to intense vibrations and impacts. This can jostle things loose, bust things open, and bend things sideways. On-the-go repairs are essential to keep your bike in optimal condition. The COMBAR's set of tools, especially the hammer, knife and spade, can assist in performing various bike maintenance tasks. It can be used to cut zip ties, trim excess material, or even remove debris lodged in hard-to-reach places. The hammer can come in especially handy for gently tapping components back into alignment or un-bending certain parts when needed.
If your day on trail goes really sideways, like really sideways, you should be prepared to survive a night outdoors. Dirt bikes can take you a long way in a short amount of time, which means you can get lost quick. Plus, unexpected weather changes or accidents can leave dirt bike riders stranded in remote areas for extended periods. In such situations, having the ability to construct a temporary shelter can be crucial for survival. The hatchet and saw on the COMBAR allow you to gather wood and branches to build a rudimentary shelter. With its spade, you can also dig a small trench around the shelter to divert water or create a fire pit for warmth and cooking. Hopefully you have a lighter or matches but if not, these alternative fire starting methods might save your life (and there are a couple that require a motor). These improvisations can provide protection, comfort, and essential resources until help arrives or until you can safely continue your journey. Let’s try to avoid this scenario, though, okay?
Prep, practice, and the right gear will help you navigate all these scenarios, but the fact remains that you never know what you might encounter when riding. Nature is inherently unpredictable. So are bike breakdowns and crashes. You don’t know what problem the trail will ask you to solve next. You never do. And that’s the biggest reason to carry your COMBAR at all times when dirt biking—it makes you more adaptable, more capable. It takes your most valuable tool, your mind, and multiplies what it can do in the physical world.
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Did we miss a use case that had you screaming at your screen? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss a pro tip or trip report.
Want more motorbike content? Check out Why the COMBAR is an Essential Piece of ADV Gear, explained by an ADVer).
Want to get inspired to take a multi-night motorbike mission? Check out Overlanding Down Under: An Adventure Motorbike Trip Across Australia.
Don’t just take our word for it, The COMBAR Is In Overland Expo’s Ultimate Motorcycle Overlanding Build explains why they picked the COMBAR for their ultimate 2022 ADV setup.
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]]>Over the past few months, Drew has traveled out of state and overseas on adventure photography and hunting trips. He’s also managed a local getaway or two in his home state of Montana. Each trip has had its own objective, challenges faced along the way, and lessons that Drew was able to walk away with (not to mention an unexpected curveball or two). So we caught up with Drew to learn, first hand, about the wild places he’s been. If you love getting outside—whether to hunt Elk, chase trout, or simply camp with the family—these trip reports will provide inspiration for your next outing and give you a couple pro tips to stash in your memory bank.
My name is Drew Baker and all of my social channels are @drewbakerphoto. I am a professional photographer and videographer in the outdoor space, which is how my relationship with ACLIM8 started. Now, I primarily film for an organization called “The Other Side Ventures” where we take Veterans, or anybody who may have suffered a traumatic and life altering event and help show them how healing the great outdoors can be.
Since our Montana hunting season wrapped up in November of 22’ I have been to:
Spain to film some Ibex hunts.
Iowa to film a whitetail hunt.
Florida as a family photographer in the keys.
Mexico to film multiple mule deer hunts, to hunt one myself and film a few desert big horn hunts.
Idaho to film a few mountain lion hunts
Nevada for the annual fishing trip to pyramid lake
Texas to film a few exotic animal hunts
Busy, busy, busy!
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The first trip was all the way over in Spain! We flew into Madrid, but other than that, I have no idea what little villages we camped out in. On this trip, I was assigned the task of filming 2 Ibex hunts, as my good friend Will was on a quest to complete his Ibex Grand Slam (harvesting all of the species of Ibex).
I’d say the biggest and most challenging obstacle had to do with the travel. Having never traveled via plane, to the other side of the world, with tons of camera gear, it was constant packing, unpacking, repacking, keeping things charged and organized. Such a big trip came with a lot of unfamiliar challenges and one big hiccup.
On the return flight home, on a foreign airline (who shall remain nameless), we got picked out as the ‘tourist to pick on that day’. They made a spectacle out of us in the airport, refusing to let me carry-on any camera gear other than pockets full of batteries, which led to everything getting lost somewhere in Germany. My career was literally lost in another country. Multiple cameras, drones, lenses… It was a nightmare.
Thankfully, a few days after we landed in Montana, they were able to track down the bag and everything finally showed up. Thank God.
Funny you should ask.
The best story comes from a little seemingly abandoned village somewhere in southern Spain. We were staying in a vacant hotel (no present staff, even) that had to have been 500+ years old. After unpacking, we blew out a candle we’d noticed burning in what seemed like an old bar/bank vault room, then we left to a neighboring town for dinner. Upon returning hours later, we noticed the candle was re-lit.
At this point everyone was a little spooked, so naturally we decided to push our spiritual luck and mess with the candle a little bit. Over the remaining hours of the night, we watched the blown out candle relight multiple times, lights flicker throughout the motel when asking the candle questions, and sudden gusts of ice cold wind flare up the candle when certain people would talk to it… in a dead calm room mind you.
It was pretty intense. I definitely wasn’t a believer in “ghost stories” before that trip. But it was tough to deny what happened.
The trip was a giant success, paranormal activity and all. The friend I was filming ended up completing his Ibex Slam with a handful of mature animals. It was a very cool experience and I was able to capture a ton of incredible footage and photos while I was there. We also got to indulge in some phenomenal cuisine and meet some of the nicest people on the planet.
I’d do it again in a heartbeat! We’re actually headed back in May! I cannot wait.
I think the most important lessons I took away are based around being prepared. Whether that’s double checking charged batteries and empty memory cards, brushing up on that foreign language you forgot as soon as you graduated high school, or learning foreign airline carry-on policies. The more you know and prepare going into a trip, the more likely you are to have a pleasurable experience. Especially in a run-and-gun type setting.
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The next big trip was down to Sonora, Mexico to film and hunt desert mule deer and desert bighorn sheep. We also took a few veterans down there to chase mule deer as well.
Travel was simpler than the Spain trip. So that was a plus. But this trip’s obstacle stemmed from packing and preparation.
The day we were supposed to leave we were informed that a certain airliner (again, shall remain nameless) was losing a ton of checked luggage in Mexico. So erring on the side of caution, we quickly ditched our checked bags, and packed everything for a two-week trip into a backpack. This meant sacrificing a lot of “extra” camera gear, warm clothes, and other luxury type items. A foolish move.
I was packed for Florida weather by the end of my clothing detox and it ended up being freezing down there.
I always underestimated how incredibly giant the mule deer in Mexico get! Behind a camera, or behind the rifle, it didn’t matter. It was such a cool experience to witness such big, mature deer on the hoof.
Definitely an experience I won’t forget anytime soon.
The result was a great success. Definitely an all timer trip.
Everybody who went down to hunt was successful in filling their tags. Plus I got to film my first sheep hunt, which has been a dream of mine since I started packing a camera around. I can’t wait to go back.
Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. This goes for those backyard trips as well.
I don’t think I’ve been anything but grateful about being over prepared when it comes to the weather. Temperature-appropriate clothing would’ve made life more comfortable when we were sitting in frosty blinds in the early hours of the morning.
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The last big trip was over to Idaho to film a mountain lion hunt for my friend Will, who is the founder of “The Other Side Ventures”.
The biggest obstacles we faced had to do with weather, specifically how much strain the massive amounts of snow put on the side-by-sides (UTVs). The strain on the side-by-sides caused multiple breakdowns. We broke a lot of things on that trip, haha. (Read: What Is UTVing: Fundamental Skills, Gear, and How to Get Started)
It's always surprising how resilient and tough animals are that survive our brutal northern winters. Mountain lions are no exception. The rugged country these cats live and hunt in continually blows my mind.
It took a lot of days between equipment repairs and waiting on the right weather (you need fresh snow to track mountain lions), but my friend Will was able to harvest a giant Tom.
Definitely an all-timer trip. Seeing first hand the dedication that the houndman and hunter put into this specific cat made it very special to be a part of.
The main lesson from this hunt relates back to being prepared on these backcountry trips.
Having a basic tool kit for repairs, a few spare parts that are prone to breaking, survival and emergency type tools (like the ACLIM8 Combar) and knowledge of how to get yourself out of a bind can save your life when you’re miles from cell phone coverage, let alone another human soul.
Basic survival skills are crucial in these types of environments. Knowing how to build a fire, how to acquire food and water, and how to navigate yourself off the mountain without relying on battery powered tech might just save your life out there.
In my pack and in my side-by-side I always carry a compass, waterproof matches, a basic first aid kit and an extra bottle of water—and the Combar, of course.
The next twelve months will be crazy busy! We’ll be heading to:
Kodiak Island to film a brown bear hunt.
Spain to film a roe deer and chamois hunt.
Africa to chase a handful of wild animals.
And Canada to chase moose, sheep, and bear with a camera.
All by August!
Follow along on my Instagram or @theothersideventures.
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Where are you packing your COMBAR for this summer? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss an update from Drew and our other ambassadors who are criss-crossing the world putting their gear through its paces.
Think you’d make a good addition to our crew of ambassadors? Check out the team and apply here.
Want to learn more about UTVing—Drew’s means of accessing remote mountain lion country? Check out What Is UTVing: Fundamental Skills, Gear, and How to Get Started.
Want more trip inspiration for the summer ahead? Check out A Family Overlanding Adventure from Baja to the Arctic Circle, by ACLIM8 ambassadors, @family.overland.adventure.
Hungry from all this epicness? Check out the three camping staple meals that keep Drew fueled when he’s out hunting and fishing: Un-Gourmet Camping Recipes: Camp Food for Real People.
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]]>As ACLIM8 celebrates five years of engineering elite adventure tools, we’re catching up with the founders who set it all in motion—Lt. Col. Udi Cohen and Lt. Col. Yaniv Bar—to reflect on the journey so far, and discuss what the next five years have in store. Spoiler alert: The product innovations have only just begun.
]]>Spoiler alert: The product innovations have only just begun.
Y. Bar: In brief, my responsibility focuses on the products—R&D, production, vendors, assembly line, etc, and managing some back end business operations.
U. Cohen: My philosophy and role is that of the practical dreamer—from the day Yaniv came to me with the idea I’ve tried to be an enabling factor. This starts with the strategy and continues through the execution and realization of the business and product offering.
Y. Bar: Five years ago, after the Kickstarter, I remember for the first time the weight of responsibility hit. We had a mountain of pre-orders to deliver on. It may sound stressful, and it was, but we thrive on that kind of pressure.
U. Cohen: I fondly remember the time, in the early days, when we were searching for like minded dreamers. We’d been told by an initial team of engineers that the COMBAR was impossible to make, but we decided to continue the development with people who believed solutions could be found. We still have the same mindset, we’re just navigating less doubt and uncertainty.
Y. Bar: The Kickstarter, winning the patents, winning the Red-Dot Design Award and COVID. The patents, the award, those were like rocket fuel in our already-running engine. COVID though, it tested us, like it did everyone, and after having to adapt on the fly, we emerged a more resilient company because of it.
U. Cohen: These are three key moments…
1. The early product development that I mentioned above — We chose to seek solutions and continue with vigor vs. fold in the face of professionals saying “impossible”.
2. After the success of the Kickstarter — We found ourselves working until late at night to prepare the shipments for all customers. For me, these were the moments when you realize that the dream is really coming true.
3. Recruiting investors at different stages — The most complex and difficult part of any venture is the ability to generate trust towards new investors and existing shareholders. At multiple points, thanks in large part to the trust demonstrated by our community of customers, we’ve managed to recruit more people to believe in and invest in the vision under our leadership.
Y. Bar: Our background taught us that there is no such thing as minuscule in decision-making. Every minor thing can become a considerable challenge, so we give every decision, however small, serious consideration.
U. Cohen: All the minuscule decisions add up. Thankfully for us, they’ve added up to positive outcomes. But I believe you can only connect the dots backwards (Steve Jobs). It is clear to me that today we would do things differently in light of the fact that we are people who are constantly investigating and learning how things can be done better.
Y. Bar: I am always excited to read our customers’ reviews. Those are a huge source of pride. Mainly when they express their trust and confidence in our tools. Trust takes time to build, and to see it building among our community of customers, to the point where folks are finally replacing their old, bulky saws, hammers, knives with the COMBAR, knowing it will not disappoint them when they need it, that gives me immense pride.
U. Cohen: I’m proudest of the grassroots nature of the perceptions that exist. They’re genuine. People trust the COMBAR. I would not correct perceptions that were built in a natural way, I’d devote energy to moving forward from here in accordance with the needs of our customers.
Y. Bar: Definitely the reliability of our tools. That’s what it boils down to. We understand, deeply, that your gear can’t disappoint you out there. It is out of the question. That’s our brand DNA.
U. Cohen: The ability to produce innovation. Period. Even in places where it seems impossible or where others before us have given up.
Y. Bar: Ooh, haha. Yes. Without revealing any classified information, I’ll say this: We always look for ways to improve our tools so they’re more accessible and, specifically, to solve the actual problems we encounter when adventuring outdoors. We’ve found a few of our own itches to scratch and are developing products that solve these problems. Some are releasing in 2023, others a little further down the road.
U. Cohen: These days we are working on the brand's next moves both in the world of multi-purpose tools and in other areas.
Y. Bar: Stay tuned. You won’t regret it.
U. Cohen: Ditto.
Y. Bar: Every problem or need can be solved intelligently, simply, and reliably. You just need to want to walk the path that gets you there, even if it is long and unclear at times.
U. Cohen: We treat the product design and aesthetics as an essential part of the product that strengthens functionality. We insisted time and time again on an extreme visual design, even in places where we could compromise, and this has been proven, time and time again, to be the right decision in the long run.
Y. Bar: Patience, my friend.
U. Cohen: It will be clear in every tool, every product. In the meantime, stay tuned. The long way is the short way, as I like to say.
Y. Bar: One piece of feedback we get a lot, and love hearing, is users telling us they make sure their COMBAR is always close, even at home. They pack it on every outdoor trip, or just on trips to the grocery store. It’s an extension of them.
U. Cohen: Yes. And what’s nice is that it’s exactly what we designed the COMBAR for. We’re frequently told that the COMBAR has become the piece of gear that solves the vast majority of scenarios without resorting to additional larger and more cumbersome tools.
Y. Bar: Every day brings in a new challenge, and I know they will keep on coming. We thrive on problem solving. To me, that’s exciting!
U. Cohen: To see ACLIM8 scale up in the US and worldwide with more new features and products. In doing this we’ll be collaborating with new partners, new creators, more real-world adventurers. Getting to work alongside all these people is exciting.
Y. Bar: Patience, optimism, and the ability to persist. Not everything depends on you, but you decide how you react to everything.
U. Cohen: First, do what you believe in and what excites you. Second, constantly ask for help from those who have already succeeded before you and who believe in you—you will always be surprised how much they will want to help you.
Patience, optimism and persistence—words to keep in your back pocket if I’ve ever heard ‘em.
What we do over the next five years won’t be possible without everything we’ve experienced over the last five. And many of those experiences included you—customer interactions, feedback, product testing, posts shared on social media from all over the world. You’re an integral part of ACLIM8, and more and more you are the story of the company. So thank you, seriously. We’re excited to explore the next five years with you in our ranks.
The adventure has just begun.
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Where are you planning to take your COMBAR in the coming years? Let us know on social media: @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss an update from the blog, new product releases, and videos from our ambassadors who are criss-crossing the world putting our gear through its paces.
Want more insights from ACLIM8 Founders, Udi Cohen and Yaniv Bar? Check out 7 Lessons for Outdoor Explorers from Over 20 Years of Special Forces Experience.
Get inspired by this epic cross-continental ADV trip that Founder Yaniv Bar went on prior to launching the company: Overlanding Down Under: An Adventure Motorcycling Trip Across Australia.
Want to deep dive into the differences between our two flagship products the COMBAR Titanium and the COMBAR FoldaXe? Read COMBAR Titanium vs. COMBAR FoldaXe: Which Multitool Is Right for You?
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]]>Think of this article as spark notes from twenty years of high-level military experience, custom curated for outdoor explorers. Whether you’re an overlander, a hunter, or a multi-sport weekend warrior, these key principles that helped ACLIM8 Founders, Udi Cohen and Yaniv Bar, rise up the ranks of Israel’s elite military units, will help you have more successful, resilient, and enriching outdoor adventures. Let’s get to it.
]]>They approached the business’s launch like a military objective and applied their immense knowledge of team dynamics, intelligence analytics, and well-built equipment to creating ACLIM8 and its flagship product, the COMBAR. The Kickstarter launch was a smash hit, with over 1,600 products sold and 0 returns. Now, over five years later, the company has released a second multitool, the streamlined COMBAR FoldaXe, and is developing a second generation COMBAR along with a full arsenal of multifunctional adventure gear.
As the COMBAR and FoldaXe have received widespread acclaim across the outdoor adventure world, including and especially among overlanders, ADVers, and car campers, Udi and Yaniv have been struck by how many of the lessons they’d learned in the Special Forces also apply to taking on outdoor expeditions.
For this article they've shared seven of those lessons. Think of it as spark notes from twenty years of high-level military experience, custom curated for outdoor explorers. Whether you’re an overlander, a hunter, or a multisport weekend warrior, these key principles that helped Udi and Yaniv rise up the ranks of Israel’s elite military units, will help you have more successful, resilient, and enriching outdoor adventures. Let’s get to it.
Note: The quotes in this article were originally published in print form by the Israeli business publication Blazer, and have been translated, and in some cases paraphrased, for readability.
In any outdoor mission with a goal, it’s important that the whole crew knows what the goal is, even if it’s simply to have a good time on a camping trip. You can call it gestalt, or a team vision, but whether you’re attempting to summit K2, or you’re leading a caravan of overlanders over Black Bear Pass in Colorado, everyone should know what the team is there to do, even if on an individual level everyone has different roles.
Along with a clear Why for your outdoor trip, everyone should know the How. I’m not talking about the technical actions needed, but the unifying spirit of the trip—How we’re comported to it from an attitude perspective. This unity level-sets expectations, lubricates communication, and produces results. Here are Udi and Yaniv on the team unity they created in the special forces:
"A unit that knows how to do very complex, unique and complicated things—it relies on gestalt even without realizing that it relies on it. Certain people are assigned to certain roles and other people to other roles because they have to be different from each other so that the whole comes complete and uniform. After all, there are things that I can't do as well as Udi, there are things that Udi can't do as well as me. In the unit, it's very clear. He's an operator fighter in the field, I'm an intelligence officer. That's his job, that's my job."
"It was always a matter of the field versus the intelligence team and it has to do with matters of personalities. I, naturally as a fighter, love risk more. More of an adventurer. Yaniv strives for as much information and intelligence as possible. After all, he will miss his aim if he is not like that. This diversity creates dynamics that produce results."
As for humor being the team’s glue, you’ll often catch Udi and Yaniv exchanging laughs even during high-stakes conversations. And this is no accident.
“In a serious atmosphere, you need humor. Humor is the glue. You can't have an engine that works all day in 7th gear. You need gas every now and then, you also need brakes."
What about solo outdoor adventures? Well there’s a lesson about individual capabilities that applies to solo missions and to group adventures that served Udi and Yaniv well throughout their military careers and that’s this: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
This is especially true when you are a one-link chain.
In other words, you need to know what you’re doing and trust yourself. For individual outdoor missions this means being well practiced in the skills you’ll need, studying the beta, packing appropriately and trusting your instincts in the field. If a group is full of individuals who all know what they’re doing and have complete trust in themselves, then the group becomes ultra-capable, and not reliant on any single member to carry more than their share. Here’s Udi and Yaniv on the topic:
"In the unit, each link in the chain is built to be very strong," says Udi. "All these weeks on the track where the soldier works alone—having to navigate alone at night, to spend many hours alone, to go through difficult experiences—all these things are designed to strengthen the individual. When a team is made up of strong members, everyone’s adding value.”
"There is a term we established and we call it 'deep water'. You trust yourself with everything, and there is no 'set it and forget it.’ You start work, and pass it on to someone else knowing that they will later pass it back on to you. We only recruit people who can be trusted to ‘be In the deep water,’ who trust themselves. Your partner can’t be sitting and relaxing with a mojito.”
This might be the most fundamental lesson, the one that can be applied to the most areas of life, and, fortunately, the one that’s the simplest to act on. Don't confuse simple with easy, though.
Building on the concept of individual competence and self trust is the idea of responsibility. With self trust, and self belief, comes the ability to own elements of an outdoor adventure. Maybe your job is to find a campsite, or make the group’s dinner. Or maybe you’re tasked with planning the next day’s overlanding route. When you own your responsibilities repeatedly, your teammates will see that you can be trusted to follow through and they’ll willingly give you their trust.
Here’s Yaniv on how he and Udi have built trust over the years:
"There is no such thing as pulling in your direction. It must be with the agreement and understanding of the others. After years of collaborating, you realize that suddenly the personalities, yours and his, have changed and they are more suitable for one another. This results from the fact that we trust each other with our eyes closed. You don't deal with bullshit in [military field missions]. People take risks, people are killed, people get injured. You can cause unimaginable complications for the country. There is no such thing as not taking responsibility.”
On top of that responsibility, trust can be built.
Being a pro means showing up with a willingness to solve problems and belief that you can solve the problems. On an outdoor adventure if you find yourself behind schedule or bonked out on your hike to your next campsite, “can’t” isn’t an option. You either can or you’re not making it to camp.
In high-stakes situations like serious mountaineering, navigating these tough problems can be a matter of life or death. But even on low-stakes outings, like a fly fishing float, believing that your next cast will land a fish will lead to more fish in the net (and it’s just more fun).
In the special forces, Udi and Yaniv trained themselves to believe that a solution could be engineered for any problem (this mindset helped them research and develop the COMBAR, too, despite the complexity of the task):
"In the unit you have situations where suddenly trouble lands on the entire country—it's that big. Then the unit is tasked with doing something on a schedule that doesn't resemble anything, in a place we don't have any information about, which is also very, very far away. There is no place for whining. 'Oh, look what they dropped on us.’ There is no time for that. Everyone is looking for what to do and how to do it. Why we can’t do it does us no good. Instead, we concentrate on how we can do it."
"It is common to think that [in the special forces] there are fighting and operational personnel only. But around this are built several large circles of experts from all fields—technology, intelligence and more. There is a clear methodology of how to bring the fusion of all these disciplines into action. And all of them proceed from the premise that everything is possible. Everything you research, analyze, disassemble—you will find that, in the end, everything is possible. Professionalism is knowing this. This is how you solve one problem at a time, with a level of stubbornness, determination and perseverance that requires endless energy and the assumption that it is not possible to say 'impossible.' Thinking positively is a must in these situations.”
Any outdoor adventure requires prep. Where are you going? What gear do you need? What’s the daily itinerary? What will the weather conditions be like? Are you in shape for it?
The special forces missions Udi and Yaniv ran were no different:
“When you come across a lack of preparedness in a person, it screams in your face. The insecurity, the shallowness, the mediocrity. It's a matter of questions. You ask them 20-30 questions about the process, about what is done, how to do it, how, how, how, and why, why, why, and you will immediately understand if they’re fluent in the plan. When someone is not ready, the more you ask, the less they have to give you. When someone is ready, they can go deeper with you, you see the foundation, you see the readiness.
There is also a systemic memory. After all, there are no new mistakes, there are new people making old mistakes. There is no reason for me to come to command an operation and not have all the knowledge accumulated from other operations. I don't need to start a process and make 20 mistakes along the way that were made a year ago or fifteen years ago."
The separation is in the preparation.
This one could have saved a few summit-addicted mountaineers who were blinded by glory. On any trip or outdoor outing, an ego-driven group member will never facilitate the expedition’s success as much as someone who places their self interest aside in decision making and allows rationality and empathy to guide them.
On low-stakes outings, like a day skiing, this might mean letting your kid take first tracks down a powder run (and getting to ski more runs overall because of your kid’s subsequent excitement). On high-stakes outings, well, I already mentioned the mountaineers whose thirst for the summit ended up being costly.
The special forces missions Udi and Yaniv led were almost all of the high-stakes variety:
“When there is no trust among the group, then the leader is an ineffective leader. He will not last long. Arrogance is a symptom of such ineffective leadership. Ignorance as well. And, perhaps the most significant symptom, leadership that can’t recognize what benefits the person sitting across the table.
When you are a leader you look for solutions that help both sides, win-win solutions. In this way, you solve problems before they happen.
Ultimately, the Special Forces is an elite unit of macho fighters. Inflated ego and all. And the higher you climb up the ladder, the more the ego rises, practicality declines, and politics takes over. But everyone in operations has to put their ego aside for the team to work properly because if not, it's life-threatening.
A common goal can only be reached if one understands that ego is bullshit and makes you do illogical things. Taking criticism personally, making a decision based on who is more dominant in the discussion and all that nonsense. To a professional team it’s quite clear from the get-go. After all, to be in the special forces you have to give up publicity.”
Both outdoor pursuits and military missions require equipment. Anyone who gets off grid and relies on their tools to keep them safe, and ultimately get them home, knows that elite gear is priceless.
This is a lesson that Yaniv and Udi learned in the Special Forces. It rang so true that it inspired them to start ACLIM8.
"Equipment is critical to our operation, but it is also a kind of metaphor for life in the unit. You can't think that you can do everything on your own without help, without tools.”
“You need to know that when you use your equipment—there, far away, in extreme conditions—that you can trust it absolutely. If, in the moment of truth, it doesn't open, it doesn't work or doesn't click, the mission is dead. And always after a mission in which the equipment worked properly and there were no malfunctions, you appreciate it.”
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Which of these lessons rings the truest to you? Let us know on social media @aclim8gear. And make sure to sign up for our email newsletter (sign up below) so you never miss an insight from a new article on the blog, where we cover tips for overlanders, survivalism, and technical advice for getting the most out of your ACLIM8 gear.
Want survival content to help you prep for a cold-weather expedition? Check out 5 Winter Survival Tasks Using the COMBAR Pro Titanium.
Looking to become an overlanding guru? Check out On Mastering the Art of Overlanding with ACLIM8 Ambassador, Kelly Varney.
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In amongst those conversations, at some point, ideas about kindling have surely come up. How should you prepare kindling before starting your fire? How big should your kindling be? Etc. On its face the idea of campfire kindling seems simple: find some twigs and small sticks, stack ‘em up with airflow allowed, put a piece of toilet paper underneath, and light. Right?
Well, sort of.
If you instead apply a repeatable framework, and a few tried-and-true rules of thumb, you can make perfect campfire kindling, every time. Commit this framework to memory and what to your friends might look like you gathering a few twigs and sticks, will in fact be a rock-solid system for prepping your campfire. A system you can rely on, even amidst the stress of a survival situation. In this article we’ll outline a simple and repeatable framework for making perfect campfire kindling. Here we go.
First, a few fire starting basics.
The most important part of starting a fire is understanding the basics. You need fuel, air, and spark.
The fuel, that’s your kindling. Your fuel will also include tinder (the smallest most flammable bit that’s used to hold the initial flame) which could be paper, fire starter, or even cotton balls smothered in petroleum jelly.
Airflow and a spark are also essential ingredients to starting a campfire. You can read more about how much airflow is too much (or too little), and various ways to generate a spark (besides just matches or a lighter) in our blog 4 Alternative Fire Starting Techniques with Survivalist and Overlander, Trevin Baker.
Here we’ll focus on kindling, the fuel.
To quote Trevin Baker, the survivalist who’s contributed to ACLIM8’s blog before:
The fuel is the most important to understand, as it has the largest impact on the success of your fire. It must be dry if the fuel is wood or other organic combustible. Typically, you need to gather four different sizes (diameters) of fuel: Pencil lead, pencil, thumb, and double thumb. You’ll also need the initial tinder that will start the fire. This can be dry birch bark, a cotton ball smeared in petroleum jelly, or a big handful of moss and leaves.
The key point from Trevin’s quote is the various sizes of kindling you’ll need:
• Pencil leadGetting these specific sizes of kindling is what you want. But how do you do it without simply scanning the forest floor for various twigs and sticks?
Perfect kindling is highly combustible (i.e. flammable and dry) and it’s split into sizes as close as possible to the four listed above.
Both the dryness and the size of your kindling can vary widely if you are searching the wild land around you for you kindling. If, instead, you can find one source of dry wood that can be processed down into your various sizes of kindling, you’ll be quicker and more precise with your kindling creation.
If you brought firewood or there happens to be some wood at your campsite left by those who stayed before you, those log-sized pieces are also a good “source wood" to make kindling from.
If you can’t find a single branch or log to make your kindling out of, no worries. Just grab an armful of broken branches that you can chop down into smaller pieces. From here it’s a matter of breaking your source wood into kindling. For this, you’ll need the right tools.
The basic outdoor tools you’ll need to break your wood down into kindling are:
You’ll use the saw and/or hatchet to make small logs out of the source wood you find.
You’ll use the hatchet to split these larger pieces into medium sized pieces (your double-thumb kindling).
You’ll use the hammer and knife to precisely split medium sized pieces into smaller pieces (your thumb-sized and pencil-sized kindling).
Here are some of the tools and fire starting gear Trevin takes on his overlanding and backpacking adventures:
A solid fixed-blade survival knife is always the first thing I grab, and I always keep flint and steel with me. On hikes and overnight trips, I like to keep waterproof matches and a small ziplock bag of cotton balls smeared with petroleum jelly with me. These are lightweight and don’t take up much room but will save me if we have a very bad experience out on the trail. A lightweight saw and hatchet are also very helpful, especially when overlanding.
Either a single branch, pre-cut log, or armful of medium sized logs that can be processed down into kindling (use your saw and/or hatchet for this if necessary)
Trevin checks the moisture level of the wood using his face. This technique can be used if your hands are covered or cold.
Carefully notch your hatchet into the top of your small log and split the log by swinging it down onto a hard stump with the hatchet still notched into the top OR carefully stand up your small log on a hard stump or hard ground and split it by swinging down onto it with your hatchet.
To make your pencil-sized kindling repeat step three on your thumb-sized kindling using only the precise, knife-hammer technique. The hatchet will be too imprecise for this.
To get the thinnest bits of kindling, the pencil-lead sized pieces, use only your knife to whittle wood shavings into a pile. These will eventually be placed right on top of your tinder and will the first pieces of wood in your fire to light up.
After this, all you need in terms of fuel is your tinder.
Tinder is the small, highly flammable fuel you’ll use to hold your initial flame and light the rest of your kindling. When your kindling structure is built (we won’t uncork the age-old debate over Lincoln logs and other fire structures here), you’ll tuck your tinder under the heart of it, so the flames will ignite the pencil lead and pencil sized pieces of kindling.
But what materials make for the best tinder? Classic ones include toilet paper, paper towels, newspaper, dry moss, bark, or cotton ball. Oily or waxy sawdust balls can also be purchased at outdoor stores that are specifically made for starting fires. And there are tons of functional fire starters for survival and campfires for purchase online. We’re always inclined to go the DIY, self-reliant route, though, so…
Besides the obvious tinder types mentioned above, these three materials make for awesome tinder, and will ignite and stay lit even in poor conditions:
One of the main ingredients in petroleum jelly is, you guessed it, petroleum! Which is oil-based, highly flammable, and will burn for a long time. Simply rub a handful of cotton balls in petroleum jelly and store them in a sealed tin or case to make your own, super-reliable tinder kit.
There’s a reason you hear about “dryer fires” burning down homes and apartments, the lint that builds up in the vent is basically super-fine bits of dry cotton, denim, and other flammable fabrics. Scrape together a ball of this lint from your dryer and stuff it into some kind of paper container (toilet paper roll, egg carton, etc.) and you have a great tinder for starting a fire. You can also just put the lint itself in a plastic bag or tin and use it on its own without a paper holder.
This one’s creative and requires a water-tight container, but it’s quite easy. Take a handful of corks (as many as will fit in your water-tight container) and put them in said container. Fill the remaining space in the container with rubbing alcohol and shake. Anytime you’re starting a fire, simply pull a cork out and use it as tinder.
There are also tons of functional fire starters you can buy online, if you want to save a little time.
Now you have your perfect campfire kindling, your ingredients, your mise en place as the chefs would say. It’s time to assemble your fire. For more on that, check out our article How to Start a Fire for Survival in the Wild.
Trevin Baker has a few tips for those who are venturing outdoors, especially if you’ll be on your own or far from other campers:
If you’re headed into the wilderness during the colder months or in areas of less than 50 degrees [Fahrenheit] at night, remember these principles and carry the bare essentials: flint and steel, matches, or a lighter for your ignition device and an easy tinder such as cotton balls smeared with petroleum jelly.
He has many more tips including how often to brush up on your fire starting skills, and other potentially life-saving items you should bring with you in 4 Alternative Fire Starting Techniques from Survivalist and Overlander, Trevin Baker.
When it comes to making campfire kindling, this simple and effective approach will serve you well. Commit this approach to memory by practicing it for at least a full year of outdoor trips. And we recommend trying it in the backyard a couple times before you go into the backcountry.
By having a repeatable, effective process memorized, you’ll not only look like a pro in front of your friends, but you’ll be able to rely on habit or “muscle memory” in poor conditions, or in survival situations where stress can cloud your thinking.
There are, of course, many ways to get a fire going as well as alternate kindling sources. If you have other kindling-making techniques, we’d love to hear from you on social media. Send us a message at @aclim8gear on Instagram.
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Follow Trevin on Instagram @dukeengineeringsolutions or @trevinthetraveler on Facebook.
Want more survival content? Check out 5 Winter Survival Tasks Using the COMBAR Pro Titanium.
Looking for overlanding pro tips? Check out Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit.
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You might know Drew Baker from his previous post explaining the fundamentals of UTV overlanding, or his YouTube video demonstrating uses for a COMBAR while training for bowhunting. Or maybe, like us, you first got to know Drew through his stellar photography on Instagram. Maybe this is your first introduction to Drew. If so, you’re in for a treat.
Drew is a hunting guide, fishing guide, and acclaimed outdoor photographer who lives in Montana. When he’s not guiding clients on outdoor trips, he’s usually getting outside on his own, or with his buddies. And all that exploration requires a hearty diet to fuel it. Over the years Drew has developed a handful of camp meal staples that can quickly be thrown in a pack or a cooler and easily prepared on a camp cooking setup.
We caught up with Drew to ask him about his culinary persuasions, and to get a few of his go-to camp recipes down on paper. Enjoy!
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Oh c’mon! Canned beans are gourmet! Haha.
I think “keeping it simple” is a good way to describe my style of cooking. I’ve tried the fancy gourmet stuff and for starters, it takes forever to cook and I'm usually starving. And secondly, food is getting expensive. I don't need an avocado to compliment my breakfast. I think what makes a good camp meal is simplicity, timeliness, and enough food to put you to sleep or start your day with a full belly. I like the ‘more bang for your buck’ type foods.
I'd have to say elk burgers are number one, followed by carne asada tacos, and then cheddar dogs and baked beans. Simple, affordable, filling.
The elk burgers usually start with a lot of mind numbing and leg aching walks in the woods until I hopefully fill a tag, (or I just substitute beef). I like to pre-season everything at home, and if I want the extras like onion or lettuce, I cut that up at home too. This goes the same for the carne asada. Prepping everything at home makes life easier and makes things go more efficiently when you're starving. Don't forget the frying pan. And then after you get a good bed of coals, just cook it as you would at home. Watch whatever you're cooking closely though because it's pretty easy to overcook meat, or burn sauteed onions or dogs or whatever you're dealing with.
Prepare stuff at home to pack less and deal with less waste.
Build a cook kit so you don't forget anything each time.
Keep everything bagged up and out of the bottom of your cooler. (You don't want your beer smelling like a hot dog if a bag leaks open.)
Drink beers while you cook to aid in creativity.
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This one might sound gourmet, but when you stock your freezer annually with a couple hundred pounds of elk meat like Drew does, it’s pretty much par for the course. Plus, what makes something gourmet is more so the amount of steps, utensils, and delicate ingredients than the base ingredients.
For this recipe you can substitute any kind of burger for elk.
Pan or Grill Cover
Knife
COMBAR (if making a campfire)
Plate (or large leaf)
Paper towels
Elk burgers (or any kind of burger meat)
Veggies (optional) (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle)
Buns
Side of chips (Tim’s Jalepeño never disappoint)
Beer (optional)
Pre-season meat (optional): If you want your burger seasoned—salt, pepper, and the like—do that at home.
Pre-chop veggies and extras (optional): If you want onions, lettuce, pickles, etc., chop those up at home and put ‘em in a zip lock bag for easy access when your burger’s ready to dress.
Make fire or heat a pan on your camp stove
Add oil or butter to the pan (optional): Burger meat tends to be fatty enough to grease the pan as it cooks. Just move it around enough so that it doesn’t sear to the pan when you first put it on.
Cook burger in the pan
Toast bun
Assemble bun, patties, and pre-packed veggies into a stack of deliciousness
Enjoy with chips and a cold beer
Repeat until full
Like with elk burgers, the key to maximizing the deliciousness and minimizing effort for camp carne asada is a little at-home prep. Cut and season your carne in a large ziplock bag at home (it’ll marinate while you drive, hike, and hunt!). Cut and season your peppers and onions at home, too. Put these in a separate bag and let ‘em soak.
This is a one-pan dish, just like the burgers which is what makes it so convenient.
Pan
Stick (for stirring)
Spoon or ladle for serving (you’ll live if you forget this, don’t worry)
COMBAR (if making a campfire)
Paper towels
Carne asada, seasoned
Sliced onions and bell peppers, seasoned
Taco tortillas
Hot sauce (Cholula is always a winner)
Any other taco toppings you like and want to bring along
Beer (optional)
Side note — Hot sauce is quite possibly the 11th essential. Never go camping without it.
Slice and season carne asada at home. Place in a large zip lock bag to marinate.
Slide and season onions and peppers at home. Place in another large zip lock bag.
Make a fire or heat a pan on your camp stove
Add oil or butter to pan (optional): The marinated meat is often juicy enough to not need an oiled pan, just be sure to stir the pan frequently enough to avoid sticking and burning.
Saute carne and veggies in the pan
Warm tortillas by the fire
Top warm tortillas with cooked carne and veggies (don’t overfill your tortillas or they might rip. I always do this :/)
Add hot sauce and any taco toppings
Enjoy with a cold beer
Repeat until full
This one is a camp meal classic—hot dogs and beans. We highly recommend making this one over an open campfire.
Drew likes cheddar dogs. Fair enough. But you can sub any kind of brat or dog for the cheddar dogs and this recipe will still work.
If you want to look extra cool, you can cook your beans straight in the can, pioneer style! Just be careful not to let the can get too hot in the coals. And make sure you still pack out all your trash. Don’t burn it.
This recipe is great for its versatility. Top your hot dog with the beans for a Baked Bean Chilli Dog, or chop up your dogs and cook them in the beans for a Cheddar Dog Goulash. There’s no rules.
Pan for cooking dogs and or beans (optional)
Spoon for handling beans
Hot dog sticks (optional)
Knife (for whittling hot dog stick)
COMBAR (if making a campfire)
Paper plates or bowls (optional)
Paper towels
Cheddar dogs (or any kind of hot dog or bratwurst)
Baked beans
Hot dog buns
Hot sauce (optional)
Any other hot hot dog toppings you like (pre-chop veggies at home for convenience)
Beer (optional)
Make a fire or heat a pan on your camp stove
Bring beans to a steaming simmer on the fire
Cook hot dogs over the fire (or in your pan)
Toast hot dog buns
Place hot dogs in buns and add any toppings you brought along
Smother in baked beans if you’re doing Baked Bean Chilli Dogs
Enjoy with a cold beer
Repeat until full
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There you go. Three camp meals that will keep you full and fueled for UTV overnighters, hunting scouting trips, or local romps with your favorite camping buddies. No frills. No exotic salts. Just a couple cheap ingredients and a campfire.
And if you dress these up with fine garnishes and pureed dips. More power to you!
Just don’t forget the hot sauce.
If you have other un-gourmet camping recipes, we’d love to hear from you on social media. Send us a message at @aclim8gear on Instagram.
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
How to Build a Campfire for Survival in the Wild
Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit
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What does it look like to prep for a 5,000+ mile overlanding trip with four people, including two kids? What was Alaska like—any surprises? What camp meals became recurring staples? And what advice can they offer other overlanders? ACLIM8 ambassadors and family overlanders, The DeHaven’s, have the answers after their epic voyage.
]]>Meet the DeHaven's: Christine, Evan, their two boys, Miles, Ash, and Charlie (dog).
This family of four and their loyal chocolate lab, have been traveling full-time for the last year and a half with the goal of experiencing as much of life as possible.
We’ve always been avid explorers and we’d had our share of off-roading, camping and backpacking before we set off on this adventure, but truth be told, our first ‘overland’ (by definition) trip was the day we set off into the unknown over 18 months ago. We haven’t looked back. Overlanding has introduced us to so many amazing people and places.
Taking life slower than they had in the past, they prioritized connecting with each other and exploring new places.
Sometimes, we move too fast. For the Alaska trip we wanted to ensure we took time in each location and enjoyed the surroundings. (We may have also really really wanted to catch some killer Salmon and see some amazing wildlife.)
Spoiler alert: Four months later, they pulled it off, arriving home in time for Miles and Ash to attend the first day of school. And everyone lived happily ever after, right?
Well, we still had questions: What does it look like to prep for a 5,000+ mile overlanding trip with four people, including two kids? What was Alaska like—any surprises? What camp meals became recurring staples? And what advice can they offer other overlanders?
We recently caught up with the DeHaven’s to get their answers to these questions, and to check their pulse after the family overlanding trip of a lifetime.
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This trip has been on our minds forever. I mean it's ALASKA. We talked about it with so many people we met along the way and got some great tips from other travelers. We also met a few locals when we were in Baja! Beyond that it was a lot of Google searches and studying satellite imagery. We save spots we want to visit regardless of location. Once that is done, we step back and look at the best path to hit as many of our saved spots as we think we can.
We also take in account the time of year we’ll be going. The 4-month long trip looks very different starting in May and ending in September as compared to other times of the year. We also adjusted en route based on the weather. Sometimes we leave locations early because of rain or stay longer because of sunshine. Ideally a longer adventure should also give you the freedom to be flexible. Want to pull over and explore that dirt trail? Sure! Feel like you want to cut out early to avoid storms. Easy.
The reality of the road is different traveling as a family with a dog. There are a lot of places and adventures you may want to do but having a dog limits you. Do we love Charlie? YES, but we have to make a few extra plans or skip some experiences due to our furry family member. We normally travel in warmer climates and leaving her in our car for hours on end is just not fair to her. We did make some adjustments like getting an airbnb/hotel for her to relax in while we went out on our adventure or just looked for other options that we could keep her included in.
Beyond dog stuff, the reality of gas prices when you are in remote northern areas hit us fairly quickly. There isn’t much to do to avoid it. They paid a pretty penny to get it there and you are just glad you have a place to fill your tank. Most of the time we would have to map out options for gas as we launched out for the day, always having cash on us because some places don’t have service to run cards.
Traveling with kids has been way more fulfilling than we could have imagined. The kids flourished on the road. They have seen life outside their bubble and have seen us figure out solutions to problems in real time. I may never have smiled more than when our oldest son learned Spanish in Baja, proudly talking to a local, or when my youngest reeled in his first Salmon ever. There are so many reasons to take your children traveling.
Is it alway easy? No. Some things we did to make the crowd happy include setting expectations. Not like, we expect you to behave. More like, today is going to be a 4 hour car ride, let us know when you want to stop and stretch. We talk about where we are going and how long we plan on staying. We also ask them where they might want to explore. It helps if they feel like they have a say. Also, SNACKS. Always.
Most places we travel don’t have service, so we also make sure that the kids have stuff to do/play on their devices that's downloaded. I think we forget how much we depend on cellular connection until you spend a long time without it.
We also still play the license plate game. We are only missing Delaware ;)
Meals on the road are a specific art. You need to adjust based on location. Some areas have great access to food. Others, it can be a struggle to find fresh food. We’ve figured out a few meals that always win. One of the upgrades that made the biggest lifestyle change for us was our Snomaster 85L fridge/freezer. Prior, we had no freezer and a smaller fridge. Now I’m able to freeze proteins and stay off-grid longer.
Some of our best meals hinge on flavorful proteins and easy to make sides. We find that if we have stronger flavored proteins and add in veg and rice, we’re happy. Italian Sausage, Chorizo, Garlic Lemon Chicken, Teriyaki Steak are all on the list and add in a fresh steamed veg or a can of beans and you are set. We always have cans of black beans, garbanzo beans and corn. We need a treat now and then and we make cinnamon and sugar donuts when the craving calls. Tortillas are a must because you can fold anything up in there and call it a meal, plus they can double as a pizza crust if needed. We also added a stove to our camping setup and have made lasagna and baked brownies. That is a treat on the trail if there’s ever been one.
Ingredients:
Cooking Instructions:
Alaska surprised us in so many ways. We thought we would really struggle with the 20 hours of light in the summer but it may have been one of our favorite things ever. We didn’t have to worry about when we got to camp or if we would have light to set up when we got there. It was amazing to be able to travel and see all the beauty all the time.
Overall we were most surprised by the beauty of Northern Canada. Everywhere we turned it was amazing. From the Northwest Territories down to the bottom of British Columbia it was just stunning location after stunning location. We can’t wait to return.
Finally, when finding places to camp in Alaska it was a lot harder than we had been used to in the lower 48. BLM sites were not as easy to come by and so much land was marked “Private” you really have to dig to find more off grid camping or drive a good distance.
For Alaska, Hands down bug repellent was the most useful item. We used a few different types that helped. Especially the kind we used to douse our gear and tents in. You just have to reapply every 6 weeks but we did it more often because Alaska bugs are just different. We obviously used classic bug spray on ourselves and then to top it off we added Thermacell Rechargeable Mosquito repellers. They last forever and work SO well. These were a game changer and when all three were used together we could survive out there.
We found many uses for the COMBAR, both around camp and on hikes. It’s nice to have such a compact and easy to carry multi-tool with you when exploring the backcountry. We used it for digging holes on hikes (use your imagination), cutting firewood, leveling ground for our rigs and much more.
We stored the COMBAR in our GFC Camper and strapped it to a beam for easy to access.
I think the biggest thing we want people to know is that it doesn’t matter how far you travel for an adventure, you just have to get out. Sometimes just hitting the trail an hour away for the weekend is just what you need. There is so much out there on social media and sometimes people feel like unless it is epic it isn’t worth it. Just get out there and enjoy the beauty.
Every adventure to us is a success, but to accomplish a dream trip like the Alaska adventure would classify as more than a success, a real dream come true! We got to see so many places we have looked at online and so many more we didn’t even know about. We slowed down when we wanted to and lingered when we felt we needed it. We actually stopped for two solid weeks at one point to breathe. The miles we put in to get there are no joke. It can be exhausting. I think that taking that time and slowing the pace really helped to experience what was in front of us.
We are headed down to Baja Mexico again. We loved it so much that we are excited to spend more time in some areas that captured our hearts last year. After that we have a trip to Havasupai Falls which we secured reservations for 3 years ago but has been delayed due to COVID, we are beyond excited to finally get to experience this epic place!
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Follow the DeHaven's on Instagram (@family.overland.adventure) for awesome overlanding content.
Looking for more trip inspiration? Check out Overlanding from LA to Alaska.
Looking for overlanding pro tips? Check out On Mastering the Art of Overlanding, and Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit.
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What happens if your typical fire-starting gear isn’t available? Do you know any alternative fire-starting techniques to use in a survival situation?
We’ve tapped into the expertise of seasoned adventurer Trevin Baker, a mechanical engineer, veteran, overlander, and survivalist to explain four non-traditional ways to start a campfire when your go-to tools aren’t available.
]]>Once you’ve refreshed your kindling-making process and packed your hatchet, knife, spade,—or better yet, your COMBAR Pro—lighter and extra toilet paper, the question remains: What happens if your typical fire-starting gear isn’t available? Maybe you forgot it. Maybe it fell from your overlanding rig while driving.
Do you know any alternative fire-starting techniques to use in a survival situation?
We’ve tapped into the expertise of seasoned adventurer Trevin Baker, a mechanical engineer, veteran, overlander, survivalist, surfer, hiker, and maker, to outline four alternative fire-starting methods. These are at least handy to know and could be life-saving in a serious situation. Below, Trevin explains four non-traditional ways to start a campfire when your go-to tools aren’t available.
Note: Three of these methods require a car (or items you'd likely only find in a vehicle). One requires a bullet.
My name is Trevin. In my former life as a member of the US military, I had the pleasure of attending both the SV-80 Survival School at Fairchild Air Force Base and SV-87 Arctic Survival at Eielson Air Force Base. I’ve hiked 140 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, hiked several other PNW trails, including Camp Muir on Mt. Rainier, and summited Mount Adams. Every summer, my wife and I spend most weekends camping or enjoying the outdoors, and we love every minute of it—even the ones where we end up surviving more than thriving.
In my youth, I was drawn to fire and became a bit of a pyromaniac. I was acting out against my parents, who had moved us from Texas to Florida, and started to light random items on fire after school. During my rebellion, I found an abandoned couch in the woods. I started playing a game of “let’s see how long I can keep it on fire then put it out,” which turned into “THE COUCH IS ON FIRE! RUN!!!” I was grounded when my parents found out, but that pyrotechnic debut paved the way, eventually, to 1st place finishes for all the survival fires we were tasked to build during my SV-80 and SV-87 survival schools.
I never caused any serious harm with my little pyro obsession, and I’m happy to say I’m now a fully functioning adult who knows how to quickly start a survival fire.
*Trevin checks the moisture level of the wood using his face. This technique can be used if your hands are covered or too cold to assess the wood.The most important part of starting a fire is understanding the basics. You need fuel, air, and a spark.
The fuel is the most important to understand, as it has the largest impact on the success of your fire. It must be dry if the fuel is wood or other organic combustibles. Typically, you need to gather four different sizes (diameters) of fuel: pencil lead, pencil, thumb, and double thumb. You’ll also need the initial tinder that will start the fire. This can be dry birch bark, a cotton ball smeared in petroleum jelly, or a big handful of moss and leaves.
Airflow is important, too. You can smother your fire without it. Too much airflow, though, and you won’t be able to spark or sustain your fire. Digging a hole in the ground or building barriers around the fire will provide a good location to sustain a fire. To be able to adjust the amount of airflow, use two sticks, one crossed over the other, on top of your firebase but under your tinder. You can lift the lower stick to allow more airflow (a hole will appear where you had the stick placed). Set it back down to decrease the airflow (closing the hole). Speaking of the base, you want to lay down dry or near-dry sticks in a 1-foot by 1-foot square as your base for a survival fire. Keep the sticks close together to support your two airflow sticks and the tinder.
As for the spark, this can come from a number of places—matches, a lighter, a flint, a battery and steel wool—whatever you have that can cause a spark. A flint and steel typically work well in very cold and harsh environments where a lighter will not arc. High-end waterproof matches can also be a lifesaver in harsh conditions and are a safe addition to any pack since they’re lightweight and small.
*The COMBAR capsule fits inside its hollow handle and can house mission-specific kits, including emergency fire-starting materials.
A solid fixed-blade survival knife is always the first thing I grab, and I always keep flint and steel with me. On hikes and overnight trips, I like to keep waterproof matches and a small ziplock bag of cotton balls smeared with petroleum jelly with me. These cotton balls are lightweight and don’t take up much room but will save me if we have a very bad experience out on the trail.
A lightweight saw and hatchet are also very helpful, especially when overlanding. Trees falling over the trail are common, which a saw can make quick work of. Having a compact saw stored in the handle of the COMBAR Pro has made life easier. It saves a ton of space and allows me to keep all the tools I need with me. Of course, the saw and hatchet are extremely useful for preparing firewood, too.
*Using a drop-point survival knife to shave tinder.
***A word of caution: These are intended to be used in survival situations and are risky to perform. Do so at your own risk!***
For this method, take a single round of ammunition, such as a 9mm bullet, and take the bullet out of the casing. Dump the gunpowder into a folded piece of paper. Strike an arc into this pile with your tinder over the top of it.
Pliers, a single round of ammunition, another set of pliers or vice of some kind to hold the bullet, and a piece of paper to hold the gunpowder.
If you’re low on good tinder sources, this can be very helpful to ignite your pencil lead-sized pieces of wood. The paper-wrapped gunpowder makes for a very effective tinder replacement.
Wet environments.
I recommend picking an easier technique before you try this one, if possible.
Jumper cables and a car battery. Steel wool if you have it.
When you have no other option to arc your tinder, or if your tinder needs extra heat to ignite.
Extreme wet conditions.
You can try briefly arcing the two ends of the jumper cables directly, but this is risky and not recommended.
Paper of some kind (cardboard, newspaper, toilet paper, or other). A running car.
If you have a car but are missing all fire-starting materials except paper.
Very wet or windy.
Use a spark plug from Your Vehicle, or keep one as a spare, connect one of your spark plug wires to it and ground the body of the spark plug somewhere on the vehicle that’s safe. The spark plug will arc with ignition, and you can light your tinder with this.
Spark plug, vehicle engine.
Extreme survival situations where you must have a fire and are willing to temporarily disable your vehicle to do this.
Extreme wet and cold may not be as easy to reproduce, but it can still work.
If you’re headed into the wilderness during the colder months or in areas where it will be less than 50-degrees Fahrenheit at night, remember these principles and carry the bare essentials: flint and steel, matches or a lighter for your ignition device, and an easy tinder such as cotton balls smeared with petroleum jelly.
Practice making survival fires once a year just to stay fresh, and remember that you may be cold, alone, and shivering when you need a fire the most.
Remember you need four sizes of fuel: pencil lead, pencil, thumb, and double-thumb. Gather piles that fill up a bundle in each hand. This will be enough to get the fire started, and you can build this into a bigger fire that will keep you warm, dry out you and your gear, and give you a signal for others to see if you need a rescue.
This list of alternative fire starting techniques is not comprehensive. Far from it, in fact. If you have other survival fire-starting techniques, we’d love to hear from you on social media. Send us a message at @aclim8gear on Instagram.
Follow Trevin on Instagram @dukeengineeringsolutions or @trevinthetraveler on Facebook.
Want more survival content? Check out 5 Winter Survival Tasks Using the COMBAR Pro Titanium.
Looking for overlanding pro tips? Check out Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit.
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A small campfire can be the difference between surviving and perishing in the wild. It can keep you warm, dry your clothing, and allow you to boil and disinfect water. Not only that, but it can be used to cook food and even keep wildlife away.
Building a fire when you’re out in the woods by yourself isn’t quite as simple as it looks on TV, but once you know the basics, building an effective campfire becomes as second nature as eating breakfast or brushing your teeth. This article will teach you how to build your own campfire, so you can do it confidently no matter where you go or what kind of conditions you find yourself in.
Clear a space at least 6 feet (1.8 m) in diameter around your fire, free of burnable material such as trees, brush, and low branches.
Consider digging a fire pit. Setting a fire on the surface without knowing what is under the fire pit can lead to a root fire that can appear several feet away from the actual fire site. Fire pits (or rock barriers) also allow you to control airflow.
Gather enough dry tinder, kindling, and fuelwood before you start the fire. Place all within easy-reaching distance of your fireplace. (More on kindling in Step 2.)
Gather twigs, tinder, or fuelwood to build your fire. The amount of wood you will need depends on how big you want your campfire. If your fire is 3 feet (0.9 m) wide and 2 feet (0.6 m) high, you’ll need about 1 pound of wood per foot (about 4 pieces). Gather wood that is easy to break into smaller pieces—this will be very important when starting your fire!
The next material you need is tinder, an easily combustible material used at the first stage of starting a fire. Its primary purpose is to ignite kindling. It can be made of any flammable substance as long as it is finely divided and has an open structure. This needs to be able to hold its shape when lit so that it doesn’t just crumble away into the flames. Possible examples include dry grasses, shredded paper, wood shavings, or animal dung. Whatever you choose should be easy to light with a match or lighter.
Other materials needed are: Kindling - these can be sticks and twigs that are not thicker than your thumb but must have some flexibility (do not use pine). They should also be small enough, so they don't put out the flame before catching on fire. Make sure you gather kindling in the four essential sizes: pencil lead, pencil, thumb, and double-thumb.
(For more on kindling sizes, read 4 Alternative Fire-Starting Techniques from a Survivalist and Overlander.)
Wood logs are the primary fuel that keeps the fire going after it is started. Chop or saw from a dead tree, never a live one. A metal bucket is handy for preparing and gathering logs, but not essential. A well-built multitool, however, is absolutely necessary.
Dig an indentation about 1/2′ deep 1 1/2′ wide before structuring your kindling wood over the top. After you've gathered enough dry tinder, lay small pieces of kindling around the edge.
Make sure there is space between each piece so air can flow easily through the fire pit.
(For more on modulating airflow, read 4 Alternative Fire-Starting Techniques from a Survivalist and Overlander.)
Finally, create a large teepee or square "Lincoln Logs" structure with your largest logs and place them over the pit. Stack another layer on top if you need more height for larger pieces of wood, like thick branches or logs. Now all you need to do is light it up!
Kindling is small dry wood sticks that ignite the fuel of the primary fire, such as wood logs. Thus, it keeps the fire going after it is started. For most campfires, kindling consists of twigs and branches. These can be gathered from near your campsite area if you are in the backcountry or overlanding campground. If not, find some smaller pieces of tinder (like paper) and place them under your larger pieces (logs). Add kindling around this tinder materials so they create enough heat to light your kindling material on fire, and then you’ll have an open flame that will spread into your large logs.
This is the fun part. But it can be excruciatingly frustrating if you've half-asses steps 1-4. Construct your fire carefully, and ignition will be simple and enjoyable.
Bend the tinder in half and light the center. Light the fire from the windward side (wind at your back). Add kindling carefully to keep the fire growing. Once your fire is well lit and sustaining itself, gather more sticks and logs for fuel, if needed.
When you're ready to go to sleep or leave your campfire for any extended period of time, let your fire burn down to a fine ash.
Ensure your fire is completely extinguished. Use water or dirt if necessary. If you're backcountry camping, you'll need more than one fire so you can always have one burning while others are put out at night. It's also wise to keep a small supply of dry wood on hand to feed the next day's fires because wet wood will take much longer to ignite even after it has dried out.
*The COMBAR (upper left corner) replaces all these other bulky tools. It's your all-in-one campfire prep tool.
We all play a vital role in protecting our wild places. As we spend time outdoors, in the natural world, and in the wilderness, it’s important to be conscious of our actions' effects on plants, animals, other people, and even entire ecosystems.
Following the Leave No Trace Seven Principles, summarized below, can help us minimize those impacts. They should be applied everywhere you go, all the time, while participating in outdoor recreational activities.
Consider your own mission-specific needs, and pack fire-starting equipment appropriately.
Bushcrafters, for example, will always pack items like cordage, ferrocerium rod, magnesium block, and striker, as well as their bushcraft knives—tools that enable them to start fires without matches or lighters as well as perform a variety of other tasks that might come up during their overlanding adventure!
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Then you’re built for UTVing.
Let me explain.
Among overlanders, there’s a subset of folks who prefer small side-by-side buggies or UTV’s (Utility Terrain Vehicles) as their vehicle of choice. In these smaller rigs, and with the right gear, you can do anything from evening cruises on nearby property to week-long overlanding excursions. It’s most common for UTVs to be used for personal land management or local day trips, but multi-day overlanding trips are possible, too. They’re lighter and more maneuverable than a truck, so they’re great for quickly accessing fishing holes or hunting spots, especially if the road is narrow or the terrain is unpredictable. Plus, they’re fun as hell.
In this article, we explore UTVing—what it is, fundamental gear, and pro tips for getting out there safely.
To introduce us to the world of wonder-buggies, we tapped ACLIM8 Ambassador Drew Baker. Drew is a seasoned UTVer who’s learned a ton while exploring Montana’s forest roads in his side-by-side (SxS). Heed his advice, and you might see more wild country in the next year than you’ve seen in your entire life.
Around the same time that Covid19 hit ACLIM8 ambassador Drew Baker's home state of Montana, he bought himself a UTV. He'd only gone a handful of times with friends who had them, but knowing he'd soon have more time to spend outdoors, he knew it would be a solid investment.
"With work and whatnot shutting down, we had to find some way to escape to the mountains efficiently, which is still my primary use for my UTV (outside of the 'run-around-town' rig)."
For Drew, it's the ability to get further back on a rough or tight road that a bigger vehicle might not be able to get down that makes UTVing great. "I’ve seen more in the last few years with that [UTV] then I have in the previous 20+ years leading up to my purchase," he says.
"UTVing is any activity involving a side-by-side," says Drew. "But, to me, UTVing is mainly a tool to get me outside, whether that's into the mountains to explore, work, trail riding, hauling out an elk, or even a quick trip to the post office."
One of the beautiful things about UTVing is that it can support a huge array of outdoor activities. For Drew, it's hunting, fishing, and camping in new places. But you can use a UTV to access rock climbing routes, hiking trails, mountain biking trails—whatever you’re into.
When it comes to extended expeditions, Drew has made some smaller, sub-50 mile, multi-day trips, broken up by mountain lake swims and campfire cookouts. Living in Montana, Drew doesn't need to travel far to get amongst it. "We have such good riding around my hometown that I have never given too much thought into hauling my UTV very far unless it were to hunt, which in that case, I'd be in Missouri dealing with that nasty mud that shows up every fall when chasing [bull elk] around with a bow—if I drew a tag of course." But, he says,
“As long as you have the fuel to keep going, you could ride trails until you were blue in the face.”
In other words, think of UTV overlanding like overlanding in concentrated doses. For basic reasons, including storage capacity and fuel capacity, it’s difficult to do multi-week expeditions in a UTV. Two or three-nighters, though, are well within the realm of possibility. And the adventure of navigating complex terrain that’s at the heart of the overlanding experience can be glimpsed in just an hour or two of riding.
When UTVing, there is always a new challenge to face, a new lesson to learn.
"Being over-prepared is the biggest tip I have picked up. Bring gear such as a COMBAR, snatch blocks, a tow rope, an extra coat, a satellite texting tool, a first aid kit, a pistol, a flashlight…etc. It can make or break your trip (or potentially save your life in a worst-case scenario)."
If he’s going overnight, Drew adds more food and camping supplies, but he tries to keep it simple—just a backpacking tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and an external battery pack for his phone and Garmin.
(For more on overlanding loadout must-haves, check out our blog on overlanding emergency kit essentials.)
When it comes to ensuring your safety on and off the road, he says he uses a Garmin in-reach mini as his satellite texting tool, and it has saved him on multiple occasions when he's been stuck miles from a cell signal. "I've also seen a situation where a stick got kicked into the cab of a friend's UTV. With a first aid kit and some proper know-how, we were able to patch him up and get him safely to the hospital."
Before UTVing, Drew always triple checks his packing list to make sure he’s prepared. After that it's extra fuel and then a spot check of the general mechanical health of his rig. Another big one to check, depending where you live, is forest fire activity. "I think it goes without saying, but you don't want to get trapped anywhere there is a forest fire."
Speaking of fire, that's Drew's primary use for his COMBAR. He uses it for both gathering wood and then extinguishing the fire. But that's not all.
"Once, I forgot cooking supplies and cooked eggs and bacon over a fire on a rock. The COMBAR knife was my only kitchen utensil. It wasn't the prettiest meal, but at least no one starved.”
The COMBAR has so many utilizations—it's a must-have in Drew’s UTV loadout. "Whether you have to chop your way out on a trail after a windstorm with the ax or use the knife for cooking breakfast, the overall versatility is my favorite feature."
If you're just getting started with UTVing, Drew has some advice.
"Drive smart. Please don't push it too much. I've seen too many friends dump a ton of money into a new machine only to roll it showing off and then dump a pile of more money into it."
"They're a pricey investment, so you want to take care of it," he says. He also advises staying on designated roads and trails, both for your safety and the well-being of the roads. "All it takes is for one person to lay down some tracks around a mud puddle or downed tree, and before you know it, the trail is six lanes wide through the forest."
If you’ve made it this far without jumping to Craigslist to search for UTVs for sale, you must already have one. But whether you’re a current UTV owner or you’re thinking about getting one, you now have a foundation of knowledge that will help you prepare properly for your next SxS excursion.
Oh yeah, and Drew’s final piece of UTVing advice: Take advantage of the storage space—never leave home without a cooler filled with ice and your favorite beverages.
Cheers!
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Want more overlanding content? Check out Overlanding? 5 Iconic Overlanding Routes In The Us: From Easy To Expert
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]]>By ACLIM8 co-founder, Yaniv Bar
Twenty years ago, my friend Nir entered my office with exciting news, he was issued his motorcycle license. Even though I had stopped riding after an accident that almost took my life, I was filled with longing. Though I don't remember which of us said the words, "Let's do a motorcycle trip around Australia," I do remember that we found ourselves in Australia just a few weeks later. Equipped with helmets, coats, camping gear, tools*, and a map, we set off.
* I had no way of knowing, at the time, just how much this adventure motorcycle trip would influence my perspective on ADV gear and overlanding gear—and outdoor gear in general. Versatile, reliable gear was everything in Australia. My experience on the trip would ultimately help inform the launch of ACLIM8 and the engineering of the COMBAR.
We started our journey in Brisbane, a large city on the east coast of Australia. From the airport, we went straight to the hostel, left the bags in the room, and continued to the spot we were told we could find second-hand motorcycles for sale. A few hours later, I was a proud owner of a Yamaha Tenere 660 cc, and Nir, a Kawasaki KLR 650 cc.
En route to our first destination, we had encountered a challenge—tying all our motorcycle equipment safely. Every few miles, we found ourselves stopping to tighten gear on the rear end of the motorcycle (see image 1). Unfortunately, the motorcycles weren't equipped with mission-specific bags, and we both had a large duffel with all our equipment inside. We quickly realized we needed an elastic mesh for our duffels to find their natural shape on the motorcycle. Once we had that sorted, we were able to continue on our way.
Eventually, with our gear spilling over the rear ends of our bikes, we reached Fraser Island and found what can only be described as an off-road paradise. The island is solely reachable by a ferry from Harvey Bay (see image 2). On the ferry, we noticed we were the only two motorcycles. Everyone else? Heavily equipped four-wheel-drives.
We noticed that the drivers of the 4x4’s had significantly reduced their tire pressure. "Why so low?" I asked one of them in regards to his tires. He advised us that almost all the island's roads were sand—adding a "You're brave." as he pointed to our motorcycles.
Nir, who had never ridden a motorcycle before this trip, looked at me and laughed. "We won't need to let any air out. Everything will be fine," he said. It was, in fact, not fine.
I'm not sure what it's like today, but in those days, the only paved road on that island was a strip of asphalt, no more than 100 meters in length. All of the other roads, sand and dirt. If you're unfamiliar with sand roads, let me tell you, they are a nightmare—especially on a motorcycle.
Having taken the advice of my fellow passengers, I lowered my tire pressure and departed the ferry first, standing to maintain stability. Nir followed swiftly.
But as soon as his wheels met the first patch of sand, he lost control and overturned his motorcycle. At that point, he had no other option but to swallow his pride and reduce his air pressure. It was the first of many lessons the road would teach us.
Even with the reduced tire pressure, a few hundred meters later, he lost control again. This time it was more severe, and he took a solid blow to the knee. After he dusted off and uprighted his motorcycle, we went on our way. Even I, a more experienced rider, was not exempt from the sand's powerful pull. I also fell a few times, quickly realizing that this island would not be as straightforward as I’d once thought.
Further down the road, Nir's engine light went on, indicating a high temperature. We knew it wasn't good. On Fraser Island, far from an auto shop, engine failure would mean the end of the road for us both.
As evening fell, we knew we needed to find legal camping, away from the dangerous wild dingos (see image 3). So we persisted—riding, stopping, riding, stopping—careful not to warm the engine too much. Finally, we reached the camping area (see image 4), and after settling in, we got to work.
When we finally had a chance to take a closer look at his bike, we realized that the culprit was an airflow propeller stuck inside the frame due to one of the falls (see image 5). We took out our tools, disassembled the damaged parts, straightened the contorted propeller with a hammer*, and cut the tip of the propeller blade that had collided with the ring. After we glued the propeller back to the electric motor shaft with epoxy, we reassembled everything and started the motorcycle.
* We borrowed the hammer from a nice Toyota owner. Otherwise we would have been stuck using a rock or wood stick. Today, I'd reach immediately for the hammer on the COMBAR.
We waited nervously, hoping we wouldn't see the warning light flash again. It didn't. We rejoiced in our triumph and slept like stones that night in what would prove to be a dingo-free camp.
The first lesson our “check engine” issue taught us is modesty. Off-roading can be very dangerous, even more so on a motorcycle. Stay humble, stay safe, and respect the road.
The second is that you must take, at minimum, the necessary tools you might need on the road. You never know when they might save you.
And last but not least, maintain optimism. There is always a way out—you just need to find it.
After we fixed Nir’s airflow prop, the ride was generally smooth, until we found ourselves on the side of a shoreline cliff. Also working against us—the tide. Inching closer and closer, the road grew more narrow by the minute. As we tried to move away from the water line, the ride became difficult. The road was covered in sand, causing our motorcycle's wheels to spin—resulting in quite a few falls. After one fall in particular, Nir's motorcycle wouldn't start. There appeared to be a malfunction in the electrical system. The tide continued to move towards us, narrowing our perch the cliff's edge.
In the nick of time, a Suzuki Samurai passed by, and the person behind the wheel was kind enough to tow Nir's motorcycle further up the shore. Once we reached safety, we got to work on the bike. We humbly unpacked our tools and tried to maintain optimism.
While diagnosing the malfunction, I recalled a similar situation from a few years back, where the fuse in my bike’s ignition system burned out. We didn't have replacement fuses. So we improvised and replaced the burned one with the horn fuse. We tried it on Nir's bike, and as luck would have it, it worked!
We spent three days on Fraser Island, a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It had hiking, fishing, and plenty of overlanding (see image 6). The ride was fun, and the scenery spectacular. It was arguably the most challenging part of the trip. Everything that came after was easy by comparison. But the trials we went through on Fraser are what made it easier—we had our riding legs under us, we’d gotten (very) familiar with the inner workings of our bikes, and we’d begun to internalize the lessons of the road.
What’s the expression? Oh yes: "It's all downhill from here."
We established something like a ritual in the days that followed. Wake up in the morning, open the map, decide on the next destination, and start riding—each day, trying to get off the main roads and onto some dirt to enjoy Australia's stunning nature (see image 7).
For about six weeks, we drove to national parks, like the Blue Mountains (see image 8), being sure to incorporate hiking trails that looked interesting. Sometimes we stayed in a campground, sometimes we took shelter in a nearby hostel.
Australians are amazing people—happy, friendly, and always happy to lend a hand. I remember one particular time, my motorcycle's kickstand had broken, and for a few days, I had to lean the motorcycle on a nearby pole or wall any time I wanted to get off*. It's safe to say, this was not an ideal solution. As soon as we could track down a locksmith, we asked if he would help us repair the kickstand. The man we approached was very busy and could have easily waved us off, instead, he dropped everything, disassembled the leg, and welded the broken piece. After he finished, he refused to accept payment. "You are guests here," he told us.
* I couldn't always find a place to lean my bike. If I'd had a COMBAR, I could have used this lesser known hack: deploy the spade 180 degrees and stock it in the ground as an impromptu kickstand.
From time to time, we were lucky enough to stay for a day or two in a village or a town—a respite from riding and a chance to get to know the locals. We relished these chances, as they never failed to reinforce the Aussies’ welcoming ways.
Once, when driving an extremely long road, far from a settlement point—heavy rain started pouring. My motorcycle shut down and refused to start up again. We sat out in the rain for hours, helpless, until a local with a pickup passed by. The man offered to help us and loaded our motorcycles into the back of his truck. But his kindness didn't stop there. He offered us a guest cabin on his farm (see image 9). Without hesitation, we took him up on his generous offer and thanked him profusely (see image 10)—just another example of the kindness we were shown by the Australians we met on the road.
In that particular instance, I discovered that the air filter sponge was soaked—probably why the engine refused to start. But this was just one of many repairs along the way—ceiling repairs, weekly cleanings, chain, brake, clutch cable lubrication, etc., but we were sure to end most days with an ice-cold beer as a reward for our hard work (this helped with Road Rule #3: Maintain Optimism).
We spent a few days in Sydney (see image 11) and ended our trip in Melbourne, where we sold the motorcycles before returning to Israel to finish our service in the army. Although this wasn't my last motorcycle trip (I did a few seven-day trips in other countries, mainly Europe), Australia was undoubtedly the wildest and most immersive ADV experience.
An adventure motorcycle trip, even in a pair, provides you with much alone time while riding. The sounds of wind and engine noise filtered through a helmet become a soundtrack to which you can meditate. I learned a lot about myself on the road. But it's also a physical journey—tiring, challenging, and dangerous. On a motorcycle, one moment of carelessness can cost you your life.
In Australia I also learned a lot about gear, tools, and the pricelessness of reliable equipment. Gear that serves multiple functions is invaluable. This education-by-ADV helped me realize the need for a rugged, do-it-all multitool and inspired, in part, our design for the COMBAR Pro.
When expeditions like this come to an end, the joy they provide doesn’t. While reminiscing with friends or writing an article like this, the trip lives on. The memory of the journey seems to get sweeter and more nostalgic with age. And the question always lingers, like the smell of clutch cable lubrication on your fingers, “Where to next?”
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Want to learn how the COMBAR Pro can assist you on your next ADV adventure? Check out Why the COMBAR Pro Is an Essential Piece of ADV Gear (Explained by an ADVer).
And check out Overland Expo’s 2022 Ultimate Overlanding Motorcycle Build, which features the COMBAR Pro Titanium as part of its loadout.
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COMBAR™ PRO TITANIUM ]]>This is especially true for ADVers—the overnight, and often long distance, motorcycle adventurers who, even on large bikes, need to make the most of their limited storage.
ADVers require a streamlined loadout anytime they set out. And the gear doesn’t just need to be streamlined. It needs to be 100% dependable, a feature that makes great outdoor gear priceless, and untrustworthy gear worthless.
(This concept of ultimate dependability is something founders Udi Cohen and Yaniv Bar have baked into the product development process since before the first COMBAR prototype was even sketched out on paper. Yaniv himself is an ADVer who’s criss-crossed Australia by bike, an experience that informs his philosophies regarding product development to this day—make it dependable, versatile, streamlined.)
So when we received a detailed review of the COMBAR from an avid ADV moto rider from Europe, including real road experience, tips, and sport-specific uses they’d found for the COMBAR, we read it carefully. His name is Ceri, and his insights about the COMBAR as supportive ADV gear were telling. So we’re relaying them to you here.
(Some of his insights apply equally to overlanding and other outdoor pursuits, but if you’re an ADV motorcycle rider, this borders on required reading.)
First, here's a bit about Ceri.
Experience: He rides with the Trail Riders Fellowship in the UK, a 5,000-member dirt-biking group dedicated to preserving green roads in England and Wales. Riding with this group, Ceri has ADV'ed all across the UK and beyond.
Bike: His main ADV bike is a Yamaha Ténéré 700, a ridiculously popular ADV bike (for a reason—this bike was also the bike Overland Expo chose for their 2022 Ultimate Overlanding Motorcycle Build) that can handle technical off-road trail riding as well as long distance touring.
Gear: Kriega luggage, Kriega Hydro-3, Wolf Enduro gloves, Sidi trail boots, Revit Orlando H2O jeans, Oxford wax jacket, Caberg X-trace helmet, COMBAR Pro Titanium.
Favorite Routes: 'Sarn Helen' and 'Strata Florida' (Ceri is UK-based, so these are routes he frequents)
In short, Ceri is savvy when it comes to ADVing.
When it comes to choosing the right adventure motorcycle gear, there are two main factors that you need to consider: reliability and versatility.
Reliability is paramount when you are in the middle of nowhere, which is where ADVers spend a lot of their time. Versatility is inherently space-saving, something that is always top-of-mind for ADVers. Here Ceri explains how the COMBAR’s versatility impacts its role in the loadout, and how you store it on the bike.
Ceri: You usually have someone carrying a folding saw. But it can be hard to safely carry an ax on a trail bike with minimal luggage, whereas the folding ax head is about as safe as you can do it. You could easily lash the COMBAR™ to the Kriega Hydration packs that almost everyone in Trail riding and motorcycle rally uses.
Even with all the panniers, space is minimal when you're traveling by motorcycle, so any ADV setup needs to be modular and compact. The fact that the COMBAR case can be stored either inside a larger storage capsule, or strapped to the exterior of a storage pack, solves this problem.
Some routes, like those found in the UK, can see conditions vary from wet and muddy to warm and sunny, and sometimes on the same day—another reason to have a tool that can aid you in various trail conditions. And fallen trees are a concern for ADVers on any continent. That’s where the folding saw comes in handy.
Ceri: Here in the UK, fallen trees blocking trails is fairly common and due to land access legality being very tightly controlled, it's rare that you can just go 'off piste' through the trees to get around it, so it's more of a problem here than it is in most of the world.
Whether it's the weather or the conditions of the road, the ability to master any land task you come across is crucial to the success of a ride. And sometimes that means improvising.
Ceri: The spade will be strong enough to use as a tire lever. Carrying long tire levers on a motorcycle is hard, and unlike 4x4s, we have to be merciless with shedding weight. Most people carry a Motion Pro T6 Combo Lever with a wrench on the other end, but it's always handy to have a second lever, especially a large one. [The COMBAR is] also strong enough and about the right length to use as an improvised jack on an adventure motorcycle.
This goes for repairing tire punctures on larger bikes, like the BMW GS, as well.
Ceri: People don't like laying bigger bikes down (they're expensive and heavy), so they get a stick and put it on either the swingarm, or bash plate on the opposite side to the side stand, to jack one wheel up in the air.
The insinuation here is that the COMBAR could be used instead of a stick. Sounds logical.
Other people who would benefit from carrying a multi-tool like the COMBAR™ are people who use their tents many days in a row, take their tents (and other gear) to particularly remote locations, or expose themselves to extreme weather. He mentioned Kifaru tent owners specifically, who fit this description quite often.
Ceri: [Kifaru] make[s] stove tents, and the users tend to either use the tents for many days at a time, or to be particularly remote, or in extreme conditions. Having a small stove means you need to split your firewood so it's only a little bigger than kindling.
To expand on Ceri’s point about fire building, this is a universal outdoor survival skill, and whether you’re in a tent or not, the COMBAR is an ideal tool for the task. But he’s absolutely right that for making and tending small fires in a stove tent like a Kifaru, the COMBAR’s multifunctionality is a huge asset.
Regarding collecting firewood, Ceri adds the following.
Ceri: The ax and saw on a COMBAR™ would give more options than just battening with a knife, or if there are two or more of you (as there usually are in such big tents), more than one person can do it, so the wood pile is built more quickly.
The other aspect of Ceri’s note on stove tents is staking them out and setting them up. Again, shelter setup is a universal outdoor survival skill, and the COMBAR is useful for anyone setting up a tent anywhere. (The hammer helps drive tent stakes into the ground, the ax can cut notches into trees for hanging a tarp or rainfly, and the spade and saw can be used to clear ground space if you need extra room in order to pitch your tent.) And when you're on the road day in and day out, a good night's sleep is of the utmost importance, making your campsite setup a crucial part of sleep hygiene.
If you’re fashioning your own tent stakes from sticks, the COMBAR becomes even more helpful, which Ceri explains here, in his last tip for ADVers.
Ceri: Some people end up making [tent stakes] in the field. As one of your videos shows, the COMBAR’s functions would be a lot better than just a knife for harvesting and fashioning these, as well as hammering them in.
As you’re refining your ADV loadout, ensure you're carrying only the most essential gear that can withstand whatever test you put it through. And keep Ceri’s tips in your back pocket. At the very least, you’ll save yourself from having to find a stick to lean your bike on when you’re changing a flat.
Ceri’s not the only one to dub the COMBAR an essential piece of ADV gear. Overland Expo included the COMBAR in their 2022 Ultimate Overlanding Motorcycle Build. Check out the build and learn about why the COMBAR was included, in our blog, The COMBAR is in Overland Expo’s Ultimate Overlanding Motorcycle Build.
Learn more about how the COMBAR™ features and specs by exploring our website.
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]]>Over the past ten years, Flagstaff, Arizona has played host to the annual Overland Expo - WEST. This multi-event trade show brings overlanding’s best-of-the-best to Fort Tuthill County Park, from newly released gear and off-road must-haves, to insane custom overlanding rigs. This year (2022) the event took place over the span of three (very windy) days, June 20-22, and it was the second straight year OEX has used the event to unveil their Ultimate Overland Motorcycle Build. This epic ADV build-out featured gear from moto overlanding’s best brands, including the COMBAR Pro Titanium. Here we overview the build, and unpack why OEX included the COMBAR—motorcycle overlanders’ perfect multitool.
Combining the all-day comfort of an adventure bike with the off-road focus of a dual-sport, the Yamaha’s Ténéré 700—or “T7”—isn't just a beautiful bike; it’s a hardcore means of transportation and one of the most qualified off-road adventure motorcycles on the market.
For this impressive trail-faring build that includes the toughest gear for going off grid, the COMBAR™ Pro Titanium was added as an essential tool. It’s ideal for long-distance adventure travel due to its extremely durable construction and heavy-duty materials that stand up to the rigors of the road (or lack thereof). Below we dive into why the COMBAR™ Pro Titanium was chosen for the off-road-focused loadout on this rugged T7.
When you’re overlanding via 4-wheels, space is already at a minimum. On a bike — even more so. You have to make sure that you’re carrying only the essentials. Taking an ax, a shovel, a saw, and a hammer isn’t practical when you’re already strapped for space. So a multitool that can do all of the above in less space than a rolled-up newspaper makes it a must-have piece of equipment. Its lightweight construction and compact size offer an optimal balance across a wide range of outdoor uses. Whether stored in a pannier or strapped to your ADV’s side, the COMBAR™ will quickly become the must-pack tool you reach for on the road.
The COMBAR™ Pro Titanium is designed with five features that make it the ideal multi-tool for your highly-kitted ADV loadout:
A heavy, full-size ax is overkill for most overlanders who only need a big enough hatchet blade for tasks like gathering campfire kindling or clearing branches on the road. Unfolded, the hatchet is a 5-inch-by-2.5-inch head with a sharp-as-a-razor stainless steel blade that wields enough power to conquer any necessary tasks.
If you're overlanding, there will likely come a time when you'll find yourself digging in hard soil, snow, or sand. And because getting unstuck is far from the highlight of our time on the road, we like to get it done as fast as possible. Made of solid titanium, our spade won’t get damaged when it hits an unseen rock. It’s efficient, too—deployable from its stowed position in a matter of seconds. And thanks to the length of its handle, the trowel is perfect for digging around tires.
Whether you're setting up camp for the night or doing much-needed repairs, COMBAR™ 's hammer pad is designed to get the job done quickly. Made of hardened stainless steel, the pattern on the hammer allows traction and friction for various overlanding-specific tasks.
One of our most repeatedly used tools on the road is an essential piece to our everyday carry and our ADV loadout: the COMBAR’s Survival Knife. Its full-tang blade is made of 420HC hardened stainless steel and built to complement the other COMBAR™ tools by fitting snugly inside the hollow shaft.
A saw is often overlooked in favor of the ax when choosing one or the other, especially when space is limited on your ADV. But it shouldn't be. Boasting a standard 10-inch reciprocating saw blade, long enough to deal with extra-thick branches, small logs, and brushes, the high-carbon steel blade is known for its superior overlanding-specific capabilities.
Taking care of your gear ensures it lasts for years to come, and having a tool-specific location to store and protect it while on the road is essential. Whether it’s the case, the holster, or a custom storage system (we know you overlanders love customizing things) you can protect your multitool when it’s not in use, and protect it from the elements. Let's break down these storage types:
The COMBAR™ case is built to carry your COMBAR™ on your backpack or mount it to your ATV or ADV while keeping it safe from any of the rough elements you might encounter on the road.
And finally, the COMBAR™ holster. Made of highly durable molded polymer and designed to help carry your multitool on a belt or backpack, it's incredibly useful for moments when you need immediate usage of your COMBAR™.
If you crash, encounter a rocky trail, or face a flooded road, the COMBAR is the last thing you need to worry about. With its uncompromising selection of materials — 6AL-4V Titanium, hard-anodized aluminum, and 420J2 stainless steel—the COMBAR™ Pro Titanium is expertly crafted to take on anything your overlanding adventure throws at it. We’ve torture tested the COMBAR in sand, gravel, water, mud—you name it. The body constitutes a high-end glass-reinforced polymer and an over-molded head for the strongest, safest head & shaft connection. Housing essential tools into one sturdy unit that can outperform any overlanding task, the COMBAR™ shaft is virtually unbreakable.
There you have it, some of the reasons why the COMBAR™ Pro Titanium is an essential piece of Overlanding Expo’s Ultimate Overland Motorcycle Build. If you want to check out the entire build and all of the off-road-specific upgrades added to it, you can see that here.
Want to see this build in person? The Ultimate Overland Motorcycle will be making its rounds at all four of 2022’s Overland Expo events, so grab tickets to the next event near you. Once it’s finished its tour, the Ultimate Overland Motorcycle will be auctioned off on Bring a Trailer, with 100% of proceeds going to the Overland Expo Foundation charity.
Want more overlanding tips and inspiration? Check out Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit
Share your favorite overlanding builds and trip ideas with us on social media: @aclim8gear!
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]]>Growing up in Israel, amidst its intricate desert rock formations, sunlit red canyons, waterfalls, freshwater lakes, and the Dead Sea, Tomer Benyehuda fell in love with the outdoors — a love that only grew as he got older, moved to the states, and started a family. Now, with his family of five and their Australian shepherd, outdoor expeditions have become a familial pastime. We sat down with Tomer to get his take on overlanding and how he’s made the lifestyle his own. He shared with us his expertise, hot tips, favorite equipment, and tales from the road when he took his entire family on an overlanding adventure from Los Angeles all the way up to Alaska.
I love the outdoors but don’t like the crowds you usually meet in parks and campgrounds. Being able to get to those remote, isolated places is a huge advantage. Also being able to go further and for a longer time with minimum dependability on the grid is definitely a big part of the attraction and adventure that comes with every trip. I remember driving with my wife through Yellowstone on a backcountry road, and we were amazed by how much we could drive without stopping. I was addicted, and we couldn’t stop.
My first off-road vehicle was a Suzuki Samurai 1988, definitely not an overlanding platform but a very fun car. Proper overlanding I started around 2007 with my FJ Cruiser with minimal build-up, and not enough protection, which cost me a lot in body repairs.
With friends, I like to take more rugged roads and play with rock-crawling. With the family, we enjoy scenic dirt roads especially if we end up on a beach, a lake, a river, or an ocean.
The first major misadventure was in Death Valley NP. After 160 miles we tried to cross Hunter Mountain Pass. It was already late and we got stuck in the snow. We had to spend the night in high elevations surrounded by snow without warm clothes or proper sleeping bags. Since then, every vehicle I build has everything for every situation (my wife’s ultimatum to continue to join me).
For me as a kid who grew up in Israel, Alaska always was the real deal, the topography, the wildlife, the wilderness, it was and still is my favorite destination. After a few years of preparation for the kids with long trips, we felt we were ready for the adventure.
The first decision we made was we are not setting a schedule. We had some milestones throughout the trip, like a ferry departure and flights to see some attractions, but nothing in between. If we liked a place, we would stay as long as we liked, or if we arrived at a place we thought would be nice and we didn't like it, we would leave.
I don't need much on the road. On the other hand, my wife had some requests for a hot shower and warm nights. So I installed a shower tent with a portable tankless water heater and secondary battery to support 12V heating blankets to stuff into the sleeping bags, it was definitely a success! Also with a family of four, you need lots of food, so I had to enlarge the refrigerator to a 75L with 2 compartments, and bring two coolers, which caused some adjustments to the drawer system I had in the back. I would say the planning took us 6 months.
Every plan you make is just the base for the changes. Try to be prepared for the unknown. Big overlanding trips require a lot of equipment, so it is very important to be organized and try to make everything as accessible as possible.
Not just the changes between southern California and northern Alaska, but also inside Alaska itself. Even on the same day, the weather can change a lot. First, you need to dress up in layers. Having a good quality warm jacket like down helps a lot because first, it’s lightweight, second, it packs small, and third, it is breathable so you can wear it in different weather conditions. A rain jacket is a must. We packed clothes for a week and looked for public laundry on the road. Everything was packed in separate clothing bags (a different color for each person). PJs, underwear, and socks together, pants and shirts in separate bags.
In the morning we usually had some eggs, pancakes, cereal, salad, or fruit. For lunch, we packed sandwiches and some snacks. During the day we hiked or went sightseeing, so there was not much time for a proper meal. Most of the time for dinner, we would turn on the grill and have steaks, chicken, or burgers. If we got lucky and caught salmon, we would have fish on the grill. One time in Juneau we arrived by coincidence at a Salmon Bake, We didn't know what it was but it looked good so we stepped in, apparently, it was for tourists that arrived with a big cruise ship, but the lady at the entrance was so shocked we drove all the way from LA, she let us in. The kids loved it. It's an all-you-can-eat grilled salmon with traditional Alaskan sides. Since then, every time we saw one we stepped in.
We were chasing the Aurora (Northern Lights) for several weeks without success. On our way back we stopped in Wrangell - St. Elias NP, which is located in the south of mainland Alaska, and saw on the Aurora Forecast app that there was a good chance to see it. I asked one of the rangers where the best place to see it in the park was, and she told me it would be a better chance to see it in Tok (a city in central Alaska, 80 miles north). Immediately we packed everything and started driving. We passed Tok on the 5 HWY toward the Canadian border. I looked for the highest mountain peak facing north on the topo map, and there was a very clear sky, which was a good sign. We found a dirt road to the west in very poor condition and we drove approximately 50 miles on it, then another 20 miles, making ourselves a path with a machete until we arrived at the top of the mountain around 11 PM. We set up a camp, turned on the grill, and waited.
Something important to know about the Aurora is that a camera with a low light setting can see the green color long before the human eye can. My wife told me she thought she saw it, but I thought it was a cloud. I took a picture and there it was — a thin green line. After a few mins, it arrived in full power for 20 plus mins and it was absolutely amazing. I’m sure that a big part of the unforgettable experience was the adventure that took us to the place, but it was something that the kids will never forget. After that, we saw it every night for a week on the Alaskan Freeway in Canada, but still, it was amazing.
I upgraded the wheels to be able to carry the extra weight of the car as one of the first upgrades I did on the build. Right after we crossed the border to Canada on week 2 I noticed that I was losing air from one of the tires. I thought it was flat. I filled up the tire with the onboard compressor, and after a couple of days, it happened again. I stopped in a tire shop and they tested the tire and everything looked good, but then it happened again. Then we got the whole wheel into a tub to find that the leak was from a tiny fracture in the wheel and not the tire. I contacted the manufacturer to claim the warranty, but of course, they didn’t ship to Canada, so I had to find a dealer in Alaska where they could ship it in two weeks.
I found a very nice guy in Anchorage, Alaska, Tire & Rim that agreed to accept it until I could arrive there. On the way there, I had to fill up the air twice a day. Luckily I have the compressor. By the time we got there, it happened on another wheel, so then I got a new wheel and had to find a replacement for a second one. I got a Tundra rim with new tires that are the same overall size as my Land Cruiser 285 70/R17. The third one broke right after we passed Yellowstone NP on the way back. After we arrived in LA the manufacturer replaced all the 5 wheels with new ones without any charge, so in the end, I’m happy with their service.
The gear I used the most was an onboard twin compressor by ARB. I had lots of issues with my wheels. Also for emergencies, especially with the kids, I have a satellite communication device by Garmin inReach Explorer+, which I also use for navigation. I have a water filtration system to fill up the water tank, and for daily use, Clearsource Ultra, which is overkill but better safe than sorry.
As part of my recovery gear, I always had a full-size shovel and an ax, but I was too lazy to use them all the time. I tried to find excuses not to use them, they were locked in the roof rack and it was a hassle to get them. The COMBAR™ is a tool that combines them all in the right size for most daily tasks. It’s easy to store right in the driver side compartment and it is accessible all the time and very quickly. I carry the PRO version, which has a knife and saw that changed my life. Until I started using it I didn't realize how much it is necessary. On my vehicle, I still have the big shovel and 25” axe, because it can carry them, but on my backpacking trip, it is really a game changer. Real-size tools in a lightweight and reasonable size to carry in your backpack. I don’t know anybody that can carry a working size ax for a multi-day backpacking trip, that really works. The COMBAR™ also has a knife, saw, shovel/pick, and hammer, for those remote camps with rocky ground where it’s almost impossible to stick a stake.
The materials they use to make each part of the tools. You can see and feel that they thought about every detail. It is lightweight without compromising on strength and hardness. I've been using it for a year and the blade is still sharp without any noticeable damage. The fact I can carry five useful tools in one small light package is amazing.
1. Build yourself a good quality emergency kit, including first aid, and upgrade it according to your knowledge. As a side note, take a first responder and CPR class. You never know when you will need that knowledge. Have a tool kit to make basic repairs on the road.
2. Learn your (and your passengers’) daily capability for the length of the drive and plan the route accordingly. It can make a big difference between a fun drive and a nightmare.
3. Learn the area you are heading to in detail. Whether there are changes, traffic problems, fires that can block the road, or just because you heard from a fellow on the trail about a beautiful place that takes you off your path, when you are familiar with the area it is easier to handle any situation.
54.8019 S, 683030 W (Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego Argentina)
There will be more overlanding to come. If you want to follow along with Tomer’s and his family’s adventures, be sure to follow on Instagram @expedition_family. Have any overlanding tales or tips of your own? Leave a comment below, or join the ACLIM8 overlanding family on our Facebook and Instagram.
Like this article? Check out 5 Iconic Overlanding Routes In The Us: From Easy To Expert
]]>“My name is Kelly Varney and ever since I was a child I have been obsessed with adventure.”
When Kelly Varney (KV) and his brother were children, they spent every possible minute playing in the woods, building forts and tree swings. When they got old enough to drive, their adventures expanded to rock climbing, mountain climbing, mountain biking, and off-roading. The outdoors is their passion, and it has taken them to places that their childhood selves could have hardly imagined. They’ve even started a YouTube channel, Adventure Built, to share their experiences and help others accomplish their overlanding goals. We caught up with Kelly and asked him a few questions about overlanding — how he got started, his favorite gear, and what tips he has for those looking to master the art of overlanding.
KV: Overlanding is all about vehicle-based backcountry travel where the journey is the adventure. Overlanding is self-reliance, self-driven and self-paced, and obviously, it’s gear-centered. It doesn’t have to be the fanciest rig with the best gear, but it needs to get you to your destination and back with the least amount of problems. And did I mention that you also are living your day-to-day out of your vehicle? Yup, there is a lot going on.
KV: I have always been interested in off-roading since I bought my first 4WD, a mid 80’s Suzuki Samurai. It was a piece of crap that spent more time at the shop than on the road, but it was mine. I began having to learn how to work on it because I couldn’t afford the shop anymore. I sold the Samurai and bought a 94 Jeep Wrangler which over time I turned into an off-road beast and that is when I started exploring the abundant trails in Arizona and Colorado. My brother Trevor and I drove those Jeeps across some long trails in Colorado while tent camping. That was well before Overlanding, as currently recognized, was a thing.
I ended up buying a 2020 Toyota Tacoma to be able to share these adventures with my entire family since it’s a challenge fitting them onto a BMW 1200GSA Adventure Motorcycle. I was able to take my wife and youngest son from the Mexico Border to the Utah Border along the 650 mile Arizona Backcountry Discovery Route. It was an amazing adventure and one of the only trips where nothing went wrong. It was a huge success and really exposed Arizona’s beauty to my wife and son.
KV: There are a lot of things happening all day long while Overlanding but in the end, it's all Vehicle-Based Travel. Your vehicle is key. All day long I’m thinking about my rig and what it’s doing. I analyze every noise, every thud, every bang. If you let something go, it could easily end your trip and strand you in the backcountry for who knows how long looking for loose bolts and leaks. I have done all the work to my rig myself so I can fix almost any issue that pops up, but preventing that issue is the best-case scenario. I will stop and diagnose any sound or feel that doesn’t seem right, it has saved the trip over and over again.
KV: The ability to have multiple uses for a single tool has always been the best practice where space and weight are at a premium. The COMBAR™ has definitely allowed me to replace multiple tools with a single multi-tool of sorts. I have gotten rid of my hatchet and saw, and also gained a spade which I never used to carry but have found to be very useful. The fixed blade has always been at my side and you can never have too many good knives around.
KV: My favorite feature is definitely the axe, it has come in handy more times than I thought it would. The real convenience is how I access it. I used to pack my hatchet under my back seat and it was always a pain to get to. I kept a small hand saw in my center console for cutting large limbs to not destroy my paint if I didn’t have to. The COMBAR™ hatchet has cut the work down since I can grab it and go. If it is a small branch, I use the hatchet. If it’s a larger branch I use the saw from the handle, after it is cut down I will use the spade to pull the branch out of the way.
KV:
1) Start small and start today, unless it’s snowy, then wait a bit. Find a weekend trip that you can do with a buddy, something that is crazy scenic and not overly challenging. Camp in a tent, make a fire, eat canned beans and hotdogs. Make it fun, and you will crave more.
2) Have a plan when you start to build your Overland rig. Start smart with the most important parts first. For example, I have gone through 3 suspensions because I had a plan but didn’t think about how heavy my rig would get. Suspensions are set by weight, not lift.
3) Last but certainly not least, bring the people that matter the most and get them involved early. If you have kids let them help you pick the trail, show them pictures of what they will see. In that same idea, make it fun for the wife or husband. I have taken my wife on a trail that ended in Cottonwood, Arizona, which is known for wine tastings, so we stopped for a little sip.”
KV: If I could go on an extended overland expedition it would be a trip from England to South Africa. I would traverse Europe for a month, then cross into northern Africa and head south until I hit the horn of South Africa. I have an opportunity to do this trip with a buddy of mine next summer but unfortunately taking 3-4 months off work won’t allow it to happen. It would be a life-changing adventure for sure. Maybe one day.
KV: What’s next for me is up in the air at this point. I have lots of overland adventures that I want to do. Death Valley is in the planning phase still, heading back to Moab, and would love to do a long trip to Alaska. I am in constant pursuit of adventure, that’s just who I am. However, I’m first and foremost a husband to an amazing woman who supports all my crazy endeavors, and a father to two amazing young men who sometimes get dragged along in the endeavors.
Follow ACLIM8 Ambassador and Field Tester, Kelly Varney here on the blog, and on Instagram, Facebook, or Adventure Built on Youtube. You can leave comments, ask questions or join the conversation on our Facebook and Instagram.
Want more overlanding? Check out Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit, and other overlanding articles in our growing blog library.
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]]>Unless you're cruising via a lightweight dune buggy designed for driving on sand, this ever-shifting terrain can be an absolute nightmare for overlanding. Even the most optimized rigs can get stuck if you're not mindful of your route. Here are a few driving tips that will help you move safely through sand.
The biggest hurdle when driving on sand is arguably finding traction on the shifting terrain. Unfortunately, this will only become increasingly difficult the deeper the sand is. In deeper sand, your tires are more likely to dig into the ground, causing your rig to get stuck. So, if possible, avoid any areas where the sand is noticeably deep.
In sand, it's recommended to lower your tire pressure up to 50% from your recommended pressure for travel on pavement. For example, if your recommended tire pressure for road travel is 32PSI, lower it to about 16PSI for driving on loose sand. This increases the tire's surface area, distributing the weight of the vehicle over a larger area, reducing "sink" and increasing buoyancy.
Note: In a vehicle recovery scenario you can lower it even more to 10 or 8PSI, but be sure to refill your tires back to 12PSI or higher once you're unstuck.
Sometimes, only momentum can propel you through stretches where the sand is deep. So it's crucial to build up momentum on more solid sections and hit the deep sand as directly as possible to reduce your odds of losing momentum.
With an increased upward slope, there's an increased chance of getting stuck. When driving in sand, even the easiest inclines can be challenging. Be sure to prioritize routes with longer, subtler slopes. If you fail to ascend, reverse back down your wheel tracks far enough to use those same wheel tracks for a second, faster approach.
Turning your tires sharply or trying a multipoint turn will act as a brake and progressively dig you deeper into the sand. When possible, make all turns wide to maintain momentum and decrease the chance of getting stuck.
Avoid significant speed changes or heavy braking as it pushes a sand wall in front of the tires, making regaining traction much harder.
If you frequently travel where water crossings are a factor, you probably already know that you should not attempt to cross if you cannot determine the depth and conditions. But when it's safe to do so, you can utilize these driving techniques to make it safer for both you and your rig.
Create a small bow wave if the water is over the height of the bumper. As long as you don't stop when pushing a bow wave, even if the water is deep enough to drown the vehicle, the wave will help lower the water level at the front of the vehicle, especially important around the engine bay and air intake.
If your vehicle has a manual transmission, don't shift while crossing. Water between the clutch disc and flywheel can cause your rig to stall.
When traversing moving water, angle downstream so that the current assists your progress rather than obstructs it. The next best option is to cross it broadside. Only head upstream if absolutely necessary, as it substantially increases resistance and increases the water power pressing against the front of your rig.
Once you've entered the water, the most important thing to do is keep going. Don't allow the engine to stall. The gas pressure will keep the water from entering the exhaust pipe as long as the engine is running.
Gently ride the brake pedal for 200 ft or more to dry out the brakes. If at any point the bow wave came over the hood of your car, raise the hood to look for water in the air cleaner.
One of the most difficult but exhilarating forms of off-roading is rock crawling. It's all about slow-speed while driving up, down, and across terrain that looks impassable. So, this undertaking requires accuracy, preparation, and knowledge of your route and your vehicle.
In rocky terrain or bumpy paths, it's recommended to lower your tire pressure about 20% from your recommended pressure for travel on pavement. For example, if your recommended tire pressure for road travel is 32PSI, lower it to about 24PSI for rock crawling or boulder-strewn routes. This improves tire grip, and passenger comfort.
The word "crawling" translates here because you're attempting to low-pass over the rocks. It's often advised to go no more than 3 miles per hour. Unlike sand, water, or mud crossings, speeding over rocks can get you stuck or damage your car.
When rock crawling, you have to guide your car over the obstacles without error, which means being aware of the exact spot your tires will fall at all times.
To better understand the line, get out of your vehicle and walk it. You can also ask a spotter to get out and help you navigate the rocks.
Rocks can be sharp and jagged, and the sidewalls of your tires are extremely vulnerable to puncturing. Be cognizant of where your sidewalls might come into contact with rocks, so you can avoid puncturing them.
For each rock you encounter, you have to be able to judge whether your vehicle can clear it. This is yet another reason why speed isn't on your side when rock crawling: If you go too fast, you might not be able to judge the obstacles in front of you accurately.
To prevent damaging the underside of your vehicle, line up your tires with the rock so you can quickly drive over them. Don't presume that the middle of your car will be able to clear it. Knowing your car's clearance is crucial.
There's no escaping it. If you're an overlander, you will have to (get to?) drive in the mud. Driving on mud can be an arduous task. Here are some tips to keep in mind to better tackle muddy terrain.
Gauge the depth of the mud before driving by grabbing a big stick, getting out of your vehicle, and checking the mud depth.
If they are not already too deep, follow the already established ruts on the route. If they are too deep, then straddle the existing ruts.
In mud, it's recommended to increase your tire pressure up to 15% above the recommended pressure for travel on pavement. For example, if your recommended tire pressure for road travel is 32PSI, increase it to about 37PSI for driving through mud. This makes the tire taller and thinner, allowing it to more easily penetrate the loose mud and reach solid dirt beneath it.
Utilize all available traction aids on your vehicle when driving in mud. Typically, if you're driving a 4×4 vehicle, it should have a built-in terrain management system.
To achieve maximum traction avoid rapid speed changes. If the wheels start spinning, lightly press the gas pedal to recover momentum slowly.
If you feel bogged, try rocking the tires back and forth. If you can move in any direction, all is not lost. And if moving your tires back and forth doesn't seem to be doing the trick, get out and prepare for a recovery situation.
Whether it's an overlanding expedition or your daily commute, driving in the snow can be tricky. Here are a few driving tips that can help you mitigate risk when traveling over wintery, icy terrain.
Like with mud, in snow, it's recommended to increase your tire pressure up to 15% above the recommended pressure for travel on pavement. This makes the tire taller and thinner, allowing it to more easily penetrate the loose snow so it can reach a solid, grippy layer underneath.
Though this is the case in most driving scenarios when the surface is slick, you'll need more time to react. So play it safe and stay far back from the vehicle ahead.
When you lose control of your rig, your first instinct might be to slam on those breaks. Do not do this. Remove your foot from the gas pedal first and steer gently in the direction of the skid.
As you start on your journey, do a few tests in a safe place to gauge how long it takes your vehicle to stop. All sorts of variables come into play, and no two routes are the same, so making sure you know your limits is a great way to keep you and your rig safe on snow.
It never hurts to inspect the depth of the snow before you go. Whether traversing large drifts or packed surfaces, knowing what you're getting your rig into can avoid the need to bust out the snow shovel.
There's no rush when driving on snow. Slow and steady is the name of the game when conditions are unfavorable. Overconfidence and impatience are the reasons you see many rigs getting pulled out of a snowbank or ditch. Take it easy when overlanding and save yourself the ever-humbling recovery tow.
Whether it's mud, snow, or sand, it's important to carry recovery equipment in case you get stuck. Some worthwhile gear to take with you are tracks, snatch straps or shackles, and a purpose-built multitool.
The COMBAR™ Titanium Pro is a powerful recovery that can dig, hammer, or saw you out of many tricky terrain traps. It has a rigid shaft and solid head with a trowel, axe, and hammer. In addition, the hollow, glass-reinforced polymer shaft contains a storage capsule designed to house your personalized, mission-specific overlanding tools. The COMBAR's strength, durability, and adaptability make it one of the essential overlanding emergency kits items.
Folded, the COMBAR™ Pro takes less space than a rolled-up newspaper, its lightweight and compact size make it easy to transport and stow. Carry it in the COMBAR™ Case for multiple fastening options including tie-downs, or strap-mounts that allow it to be mounted to your truck, ATV or ADV.
Having the right driving know-how for all kinds of terrain will give you added peace of mind, but it won't always get you out of trouble. So before heading out, put your money in quality recovery gear, good tires, and an elite, large-format multitool.
Stay tuned for our upcoming articles with overlanding tips on vehicle recovery and insights from veteran overlanders who've seen it all. Do you have driving tips to share that aren't on this list? Join the conversation on Facebook or Instagram!
Want more overlanding? Check out our blogs, 5 Iconic Overlanding Routes in the US: From Easy to Expert and Overlanding? Keep These Five Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit at All Times.
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Overlanding is all about building your rig to what works best for you. Every rig might have general similarities, but nothing is cookie cutter. My YouTube channel started to build when I was doing DIY-style build videos of building my overland rig. I showed people that you don't have to be a mechanic to build an overland rig. I did almost all installations by myself in my garage and showed that the average Joe could do it in a step-by-step method.
Honestly, I checked all those boxes in one trip—my first trip to Moab was in my heavily loaded down overland rig. The mishap was while I was climbing up Hell's Gate, which is a much more challenging climb than what it looks like on YouTube. I got halfway up the climb, and I came off the wall, and my front end started to lift. I was probably 4" away from rolling backward down the climb. Luckily I had some buddies there that put weight on my front bumper to stop me from going over. My success was finishing that climb after a massive adrenaline dump and feeling like I had no business being on this trail.
In Arizona, the winter weather is great for being outdoors. I enjoy hanging out in the White Tank Mountains near my house. I trail run there, mountain bike there, off-road there, make YouTube videos, and go for the most epic pictures. It has everything!
Well, it might sound cheesy, but my wife is my biggest personal inspiration. She has managed to bounce back from severe personal loss and health issues, and she is better for it. She manages to stay optimistic when I have a hard time seeing the brighter side. She is my rock, for sure. So many people inspire minor aspects of my goals or ambitions, but when I think hard on the matter, she is the only one who affects my day-to-day and my future. If I had to name one person for adventure inspiration, it would probably be Clay Croft from Expedition Overland. He pioneered the overland adventure on YouTube and has built a business of taking expedition-style overland adventures. Also, he is just a nice, down-to-earth guy.
Overlanding is ever-evolving, and the gear is no different, and I am a gear nerd. Currently, I am using multiple tools that I can eventually see the COMBAR replacing. I have a lot of great tools that exceed each of their functions. However, Overlanding is also about maximizing storage space and saving weight without sacrificing function and comfort. So I am genuinely hoping through extensive testing that the COMBAR can replace each of these tools.
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My primary passion is photography because it encompasses and finds its way into many other outdoor passions. It gives me a way to document incredible experiences to share and remember for years to come.
My passions have always involved the outdoors, but I never really captured or shared those moments. I was a bit against picking up a camera and diving in because the "cool kids" viewed it as the nerdy thing to do (pre-Instagram, of course.) Then, around 7 or 8 years ago, a lodge I was guiding for put me into a National Geographic photography workshop with Jay Dickman, against my will. This was meant to help me teach clients how to better use their cameras on trips and during their stay. That 10-day workshop changed my life as I fell in love with photography. Teaching others helped me develop my style and the necessary skill-set quickly. Soon after the workshop, I began packing a camera on my adventures, and everything just fell into place. Now, I have a camera with me wherever I go.
A tiny area a few miles out of my hometown is called Black Pine. It's one of my favorite places. I harvested my first big game animals and learned to fly fish there. Black Pine has heavily influenced my love for the outdoors.
This list is endless. My dream trips are an archery moose hunt in Alaska and chasing Taimen in Mongolia with a fly rod. Both provide such remoteness and an opportunity at genuinely remarkable species.
That would have to be my first archery bull elk! Hands down one of the most exciting and emotionally overwhelming experiences of my life.
If I'm off hunting or hiking, I'd have to say my favorite pieces of gear are my Forloh technical gear, my hunting pack, my Crispi boots, and my Garmin inReach® Mini. A good knife and headlamp have also been crucial tools in my adventuring. When it comes to actual tools on something such as a side-by-side trip, I've always used an old ax and a come-a-long to help me get down the trail and out of trouble. I think ACLIM8 will enhance my adventures with its high quality and dependable gear. As well as being compact for those backcountry trips. I value space-saving gear that can get the job done, especially when it comes to loading up the UTV for an extended camping trip or a multi-state hunting trip. Space, durability, and utility are significant to me.
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I am a mountain guide by trade, and I live in a mountain town in Washington state on 5 acres next to the national forest. So mountain living is a daily experience for me.
I look for unique ways to balance individual challenges with multi-elemental engagement in the backcountry. I like human-powered adventures across long distances and utilizing multi-elemental modes of travel like a mountain bike in, backpack to alpine climb, climbing route, descending to the river, kayak out to the road, and bike home.
The history of mountain travel and the character of the early explorers is fascinating—one of my favorite stories is the Italian ascent of Mt. Kenya in 1952. Italian soldiers escaped a POW camp in Kenya with handmade climbing gear to ascend Mt. Kenya and then sneak back into the camp following their ascent—chronicled in the book “No Picnic on Mt. Kenya.” A fantastic story!
This year I am focused on creating experiences for my children, who are 8 and 12, that support their love of nature and the method of adventure they love: mountain biking and hiking/scrambling. In addition, this year is about creating growth experiences for myself, like my solo ascent of the North Ridge of Everest in 2022.
Traveling with a kit that supports self-contained travel and assures problem-solving is paramount in approaching adventure. The challenge lies in making sure that the gear is durable, applicable, and high-functioning—always looking to strike a balance between not enough (going lightweight) and not too much (too weighted down). I use a GPS texting location device, a smartphone, and a small solar charger for my digital needs—everything else is analog, with the key being a waterproof paper notepad and pencil that I can sharpen with a knife.
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Follow these field experts throughout the upcoming seasons on our Instagram and right here on the blog, where we’ll share reviews, trip reports, and editorial pieces from their off-grid pursuits. Have questions for us or our ambassadors? Reach out on social!
If you think you have what it takes to join the ranks of the ACLIM8 Ambassadors you can apply here. Safe travels, everyone.
Did you like this article? Check out On Mastering The Art Of Overlanding
Editor’s Note: Also see How To Be Prepared For An Epic Suv Off-Road Adventure
Overlanding is thought to have been introduced in Australia back in the early 1900s. But despite this century-plus long history, overlanding is still comparatively new in terms of outdoor recreation, especially in the US. Today, its increasing popularity in North America has resulted in the mapping of a host of new overlanding routes and sections. Some of these routes are emerging as the US’s most iconic destinations for overlanders.
The combination of car camping and off-roading offers infinite possibilities for challenging wilderness experiences, entertainment, and remote solitude. While the overlanding vehicle itself is an essential ingredient in the overall recipe for a good overlanding trip, so is the route.
With endless options for overlanding routes dispersed worldwide, choosing an objective can be difficult. But with everything from easygoing weekend rides to vigorous multi-week tours, some of the best routes are found here in America.
The U.S stretches roughly 3,000 miles coast-to-coast and it provides a wide range of options when it comes to terrain types. From dry, extreme deserts to breezy coastal beaches, no matter your skill level or preferred location, there's an overlanding route that'll make the grade.
In addition to the sheer variety of terrain, several other factors make the U.S. an excellent place for your next overlanding mission, including frequently updated trail conditions and route changes, a thriving community of overlanders to connect with, and routes that accommodate all skill levels, from easy to expert. Looking for a first-rate multi-week route? There are plenty of those, some requiring a large amount of road cover to complete (assuming the conditions are suitable during the entirety of the trip). How about a day trip? Sure. You can find overlanding routes that can be finished in just a few hours. These diverse routes are quickly making the U.S one of the world’s overlanding hubs.
With so many options, we decided to take a deep dive into a few of the most iconic overlanding routes in the U.S, exploring their terrain and notable features, as well as delving into their difficulty levels. Below are five US overlanding routes with difficulty levels ranging from Easy to Expert.
Developed to be scenic and not "off-roading" specific, the Trans-New Hampshire Overland Adventure Route is a mixture of both forest and logging roads that cover some of the most scenic landscapes in New Hampshire. Starting at the border of Canada – this route takes you through a national forest, a variety of small idyllic towns, and ends on the coast of New York.
Why is it suitable for beginners? The route was intended to be compatible with any high clearance 4WD vehicle. However, when you consider the unpredictable east coast weather and travel on remote and unmaintained roads, it's advised to tour with 2+ vehicles.
Location: Canadian Border (Pittsburg, NH) to the Coast (Rye, NY)
Time: 3 days (or more)
Distance: 500 miles (roughly)
If you're a big fan of sand, salt, and sea, this is the overland route for you. South Core Banks is the middle of three islands that make up the Cape Lookout National Seashore in North Carolina. A short ferry ride from the mainland, this route boasts over 20 miles of undeveloped beach. When the sun is up, you can explore by vehicle, take a swim, or cast a line, and when it sets, you can pitch a tent and enjoy a glorious campfire under a canopy of stars.
Why is this a great beginner route? Not only are there next to no technical challenges, but any stock 4WD will suffice. But, like any off-road venture, before you head out, check the weather — particularly during hurricane season.
Location: Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
Time: 1-2 days
Distance: 20 miles (roughly)
A route renowned throughout the overlanding community, the Mojave Road is popular, and for a good reason. Traveling across the Mojave National Preserve offers jaw-dropping desert landscapes peppered with iconic Joshua Trees. In addition, there are endless opportunities for undeveloped camping along the route so you can be sure you’ll find the perfect spot to get some rest after a solid day of adventure.
Why is this route good for intermediate overlanders? Though most of the route is non-technical, there are a few spots that having some experience will come in handy. More technical spots like Watson Wash would be better accomplished with a spotter. And of course, due to the remote location and the often unpredictable weather on the route, it is advised that you tour in a caravan of 2-4 vehicles, or more.
Location: Mojave National Preserve, California
Time: 2-5 days
Distance: 138 miles (roughly)
Why is this route best for experienced overlanders? It’s very technical. Located on one of the state's highest peaks, the route descends "steps" comprised of a series of steep, technical rocks. In addition, it features incredibly tight, narrow switchbacks at stomach-churning heights. Secondly, much of the route requires a high clearance, short wheelbase, four-wheel-drive vehicle to complete. So proceed with caution!
Location: Near Telluride, Colorado
Time: Less than 1 day
Distance: 10 miles (roughly)
And last but not least, a trail so famous they named a Jeep after it: The Rubicon Trail. This historical route has seen many a traveler over the last 100 years. Today those travelers are typically going via truck and UTV.
Why is The Rubicon Trail best left for the experienced overlander? While this route through the Sierra Nevada may look like an easy one from the pictures, it's actually one of the country's most difficult and demanding overlanding routes. Due to its narrow passages, rocky climbs, and occasional mud holes, the trail is recommended for short wheelbase vehicles with all skid plates in place. The main stretch is roughly 22 miles, however it can take the better part of two or three days to finish — and that's with a seriously-modified rig and a skilled driver at the wheel.
Location: California High Sierra
Time: 1.5-2.5 days
Distance: 110 Miles (roughly)
One of the countless things that set the COMBAR™ Pro apart from any other multi-tool is that it can do more, and on a larger scale. Yet when it’s folded, it takes up less space than a rolled-up newspaper. Its lightweight and compact size make it easy to pack on any overlanding pursuit. Chopping, digging, hammering, and sawing – this elite tool has all of the essential features for conquering obstacles along your route. Engineered for self-reliant adventurers going beyond the beaten path, a COMBAR™ Pro is a perfect co-pilot for your overlanding missions.
Safe Travels!
There you have it, five of North America’s most iconic overland route suggestions, for every skill level. Set your sights on one that’s right for you and keep moving off-road through 2022.
Already assembling your ultimate overlanding gear kit? Read our guide Overlanding? Keep These 5 Essential Items In Your Emergency Kit
What other overlanding trails and routes do you recommend? Share them with us on social media @aclim8_gear!
Did you like this article? Check out How To Be Prepared For An Epic Suv Off-Road Adventure
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Even for the most seasoned outdoorsman, the backcountry can present unforeseen challenges that call for mission-specific gear. So, whether you’re on a casual weekend hike or a hearty multi-day backcountry expedition, the right tools and know-how could save you during a particularly nasty set of circumstances.
The more you study and practice survival skills, the more prepared you'll be in situations that call for expertise as well as endurance. This blog will talk about 5 different circumstances you might encounter when going off-grid in the winter, how to make the most of your surroundings for survival — and how having a multi-tool like the COMBAR™ PRO TITANIUM can serve you.
Knowing how to start a fire is one thing, but knowing how to do it in the snow is another. So let’s start with the most fundamental yet critical use for the COMBAR™ PRO TITANIUM when surviving the elements of winter — fire starting. It may very well be the difference between life and death in an emergency, as fire not only provides warmth but access to clean water and safe food.
Find tinder, kindling, and fuelwood.
Using just three of the features on the COMBAR™ PRO TITANIUM, you would be able to chop wood, smash fibers, and dig shelter to start a fire, even in cold, snowy conditions.
(Note that cutting bark from a tree should, in fact, only be done in an actual emergency, as this can damage and even kill the tree.)
The most advantageous form of protection in winter conditions might just be snow. That's because when it comes to building a shelter, you can dig out a hole in an existing pile of snow if the conditions are right. Thanks to the handle length, the spade is perfect for land tasks or small space excavation. So, here's how you can build a shelter with just snow and a spade.
If for some reason, you can’t find a snowdrift big enough to construct a snow cave shelter, you can try piling snow into a mound large enough to dig out. But, this should be used only as a last resort, as saving your energy is crucial in times of survival.
Seasoned campers know that it's not uncommon to show up to camp without your tent stakes — and it isn't easy to put up a traditional tent without decent tent stakes , let alone building an entire make-shift shelter without them. So if you find yourself in a situation without snow and in need of shelter, this is a quick way to make improvised tent stakes that requires nothing more than a knife and a branch.
Roots can be a sturdy alternative to rope. So, if you need rope to hold up a tarp or any other material, you can use the spade feature to dig into the ground to search for roots. Then, you can work the roots into a rope by braiding it as best you can.
Safe drinking water is, of course, essential to your survival in the wilderness — as well as safe food. So, if you find yourself in a situation where you rely only on natural resources, having a way to boil and cook can keep you from ingesting dangerous bacteria. So how do you do this without burning your food or your water vessel? Well, a tripod might be a great place to start.
Add stability to your tripod by using the spade to dig into the ground a bit. Place your tripod into the holes, and use the excess dirt to pack it in. Repeat as needed.
No — we don't mean actually hitting your hammer on the ground to break up frost and dirt (though the spade feature would be perfect for that task) but instead for driving those tent stakes s and pot holder poles into the cold hard earth.
Driving a tent stake into the ground seems like a relatively straightforward process. Just hit the head of the stake with a rock, and try to keep it vertical and straight. Easy, right? Well, cold ground is more challenging and firmer than the warm ground. You can still manually drive a tent stake in cold conditions, but it becomes a lot harder.
That being said, the whole process can become exhausting after only a few hits, and as we've mentioned above, saving your energy is crucial in these situations. Not to mention that sweating is a serious threat due to freezing on your skin when you stop moving.
A tool designed to hammer quickly and efficiently will save your precious energy. The hammer feature on the COMBAR™ PRO TITANIUM is hardened stainless steel. Its pattern allows traction and friction for precision and ease of use. A few solid hits, and you're on your way to a warm shelter or hot meal.
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So, there you have it, five winter survival tasks that you can accomplish using the COMBAR™ PRO TITANIUM. We hope these tips come in handy the next time you find yourself in a situation where your survival relies heavily on your natural surrounding and a good multi-tool. Please leave any questions or comments below, and we'll be sure to answer them here or in an upcoming blog post. Also, stay tuned for more survival tips from the experts at ACLIM8.
Did you like this article? Check out From Sand To Snow: Driving Tips For Overlanding On 5 Common Terrain Types
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