Not Your Average Overland Packing Checklist
We’ve seen all the “overland packing checklist” posts floating around, and while many of them are useful, they often miss the mark when it comes to expedition trucks. A packing list for a fully capable, self-sustaining off-road vehicle is vastly different than one for an old 4Runner with a roof tent.
At ACME Overland, we build trucks that are engineered to go off-grid for weeks at a time—so naturally, your gear needs to reflect that. Whether you’re heading deep into the desert, cruising through alpine roads, or posted up on a remote ridgeline, this checklist is built to help you prep smart, pack thoroughly, and stay out longer.
We know every truck and every traveler is different, so consider this an adaptable framework. Use it as your starting point and tailor it to your unique adventure style.
Vehicle and Recovery Items
Air compressor
Jumper cables/jump pack
Recovery gear (tow straps, shackles, traction boards, snatch block)
Shovel and folding pickaxe
Extra fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid)
Toolkit
Multimeter
Diagnostic scanner
Fire extinguisher
Work gloves and headlamps
Extra diesel (jerry cans or auxiliary tank)
Backup power bank
Extra batteries for devices
Tire repair kit and tire gauge
Extra parts (filters, fuses, hoses, etc)
Kitchen & Food
Cookware (pots, pans, cooking utensils)
Plates, bowls, mugs, cutlery
Coffee and coffee machine
Non-perishable food (cans, rice, pasta, bars, etc)
Fresh food in fridge/freezer
Spices, oils, condiments
Ice
Cooler
Trash bags
Food storage containers
Dish soap & brush
Clothing and Personal Gear
Layered clothing for all weather
Rain gear
Insulated jacket
Sunglasses, hats, gloves
Hiking boots and camp shoes
Laundry bag (and detergent if you have a washer/dryer)
Toiletries (toothbrush, soaps, deodorant, etc)
Towels for kitchen and bathroom
First aid kit
Personal medications
Sunscreen & insect repellent
Books, journals, games, cameras, anything else of the like
Charging cords for devices
Pet gear if bringing furry companions
Navigation and Communication
Satellite phone or Garmin inReach
Paper maps and compass
GPS system or off-road navigation app
Walkie talkies/handheld radios
Emergency beacon
Water & Sanitation
Filled freshwater tanks
Extra clean water containers
Soap
Toilet paper & sanitary bags
Camping Gear
Firewood
Generator
Propane
Lighter
Mallet
Saw
Flashlights or lanterns
Superglue
Scissors
Heavy duty gloves
Cutting pliers and regular pliers
Sleeping & Comfort
Bedding or sleeping bags
Blankets and pillows
Camp chairs
Indoor shoes or slippers
Cleaning & Maintenance
Broom & dustpan
Portable vacuum
Microfiber cloths
Disinfectant cleaner
Rubber gloves
Just-in-Case Items
Duct tape
Super glue
Sewing kit
Emergency cash
Zip ties, bungees, carabiners
Insulation or thermal blankets
Ready to Hit the Road?
To make things even easier, we turned this list into a printable and downloadable checklist for your next expedition.
Build Your Expedition Truck with ACME Overland
If you’re just getting started on your journey, or dreaming up your next rig—we can help. At ACME Overland, we specialize in building custom expedition trucks tailored to your exact needs, lifestyle, and ambitions. Start your journey today by reaching out to our team.