Start Here, presented by Nitto Tire, provides a wide range of beginner and novice-level articles to help educate enthusiasts with essential knowledge for vehicle-based adventures. Your trailhead starts here!
Start Here
Why You Should Weigh Your Overland Rig After Major Modifications
After adding a rooftop tent and upgrading our electrical system, we returned to the CAT Scale to discover our Land Cruiser had gained 115 pounds—pushing us well beyond Toyota’s recommended GVWR.
12.50” Vs 11.50” Wide Tires: Which is the Better Choice and Why
The Tire Size Most Truck Owners Overlook—But Shouldn’t
Confidence on the Trail: Hoplite Venturetrek Skills Class
Boost your backcountry skills with Hoplite Venturetrek’s hands-on training in Moab. Learn recovery, navigation, and trail driving in this essential beginner class.
Steel vs Synthetic Winch Line: Which Winch Rope is Right for You
Compare steel and synthetic winch lines to see which is right for your off-road adventures. Learn the benefits, drawbacks, and safety tips for each rope type.
Cold-Weather Consciousness: Tips for Winter Adventure Preparedness
Prepare for extreme winter overlanding with expert tips on vehicle prep, recovery gear, cold-weather camping, and must-have survival essentials. Stay safe, warm, and ready for adventure in freezing temperatures.
Modern Diesels for Overlanding: Challenges and Considerations for Global Travel
Explore the pros and cons of modern diesel engines for global overlanding. Learn about emissions systems, DEF, ULSD availability, and how to tackle fuel challenges in remote regions.
Onboard Air vs Portable Compressors: Which Is Better for Off-Roading?
Explore the pros and cons of onboard air vs. portable air compressors for off-road vehicles. Learn how each type impacts air-up times, space requirements, and accessory compatibility to make the best choice for your rig.
Everything You Need to Know About Overlanding Essentials and Gear for Your Next Off-Road Trip
Getting Your Rig Setup with the Right Gear for an Off-Road Trip, Camping and Overlanding
The Price Of Adventure: How Much Does A Continent-Scale Expedition Really Cost?
While living on the road, it becomes plainly clear the size of our adventures are limited mainly by our savings accounts. As much as we don’t want it to be true, we all know the adventure will end when the money runs out. How much does it cost to overland longterm?
Driving Skills: Getting a Handle On Driving Side-Slopes
I remember my first experience negotiating a side slope in my 1973 Toyota Land Cruiser—some decades ago now. I was a rank novice, learning the basics of low-range driving by trial and error on the trails in the mountains east of Tucson.
Everything You Need To Know Before Buying a Winch
If experience has taught us anything, it’s that you can’t plan for every off-road scenario. One thing you can do, however, is make sure your vehicle is as prepared as possible. The easiest way to do that is by outfitting your truck or SUV with a winch. A self-recovery winch ...
Stop Guessing Your Rig’s Weight: Weighing Your Off-Road Vehicle with CAT Scale
When it comes to overlanding and off-roading, knowing the weight of your vehicle is more than just a good idea—it’s a necessity. Understanding your vehicle’s weight can be the difference between a successful journey and an overland nightmare. We stopped by CAT Scale to find out the real weight of our rig.
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Bigger or Smaller Tires? Considering Tire Size for Global Overlanding
Would larger tires serve you better on long-distance or international explorations than smaller ones? The answer may surprise you.
Leave No Trace: How to Tread Lightly
There are important “tread lightly” principles overlanders and campers should adhere to treat surrounding areas (and people) with respect to preserve the environment and the planet for years to come.
Repairing Off-Road Tires: Be Your Own Tire Repair Shop Out on the Trail
Don’t get stranded due to a flat tire while on the trail. With a few tools, a good air compressor, and a proper repair kit, you can handle any tire mishap short of a shredded blowout.
Dual Batteries for Overlanding: Understand the Electronics That Keep You on the Move
Dual isolated batteries have been a fixture of overland vehicles since the first courageous souls ventured into the heart of Australia and Africa decades ago.
Start Here, presented by Nitto Tire, provides a wide range of beginner and novice-level articles to help educate enthusiasts with essential knowledge for vehicle-based adventures. Your trailhead starts here!