Overlanding Build Strategy: Plan It Right From The Start!

When you’re building out an overlanding rig, the excitement to just start bolting parts on can be overwhelming… but trust me, a solid plan makes all the difference. In this episode, I walk through my strategy for planning an overland build the right way before turning a single wrench.

I talk about the importance of documenting dimensions, measuring twice (or three times!) and cutting once, and why creating a simple spreadsheet or Google Doc can save you tons of headaches. I’ll show you how I map out every step of a build so I know exactly what needs to happen — and in what order — to keep the project moving forward smoothly.

Toward the end, I share one of my favorite practical tips: laying out all the gear and components you already own on the floor so you can visualize the setup, talk through your plan, and update your drawings based on real-world space and fitment. Finally, I explain why ordering everything you’ll need before the build begins can help you avoid frustrating delays once you’re in the middle of the project.

If you’re planning your first overland build — or just want to be more strategic with your next round of mods — this video will help you stay organized, save time, and build with confidence.

As mentioned in the vid, here are some of the items shown or discussed:

Link to order the camper I'm getting with accessories (this just sends the order to HiperLion but then you'll actually purchase through Alibaba-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING147 for your choice in $170 in free accessories): https://hiperlionoutdoor.com/product/build-your-complete-setup-in-one-page/

200W CIGS Solar Panel I'm going to run: https://amzn.to/4pA8AnT

My 3000W Inverter: https://amzn.to/3Zi23Du

Remote Power Box with anderson plugs (order this early because shipping is slow): https://amzn.to/3P6638n

Fancy toilet for camper: https://amzn.to/3PFKv2C

100 Ft of 12 Gauge Wire for misc wiring: https://amzn.to/4c6CWeu

14 gauge quick connects: https://amzn.to/3ZFElBn

40 Ft. of 0 Gauge Wire: https://amzn.to/3ZDkN0v

Trolling Motor Mounts: https://amzn.to/4sim5dZ

Mictuning Switch Panel: https://amzn.to/4sjHlAn

LiTime 320AH Heated Mini LifePo4 Battery (will probably run 2): https://amzn.to/4rGiLsd

BougeRV Sensor Lights for inside camper: https://amzn.to/4uBN4Tw

A huge thanks to my partners:

Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices): https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&

Z1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan): https://www.z1offroad.com

All Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck): https://www.alldogsoffroad.com

ICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order): https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING

Click here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel: https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlanding

Click here to get a patches or stickers: https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/

For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links: https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/

Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8F

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Newbie Overlander Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/367203658420467