As we approach the winter holidays, families have begun reaching out to us to ask what gear would make the perfect gift for their child to help prepare them for their Overland trip this summer. As we advise families, our offices have taken some time to reflect on the items we loved (or wished we had) on our Overland trips!
Brooks Brown
Hiking gaiters are lifesavers—quiet, unassuming, and always there to save the day when the trails get muddy, rocky or wet. They keep your socks dry, your boots debris-free, and your dignity intact when everyone else stops to dump out their boots. Plus, nothing says “seasoned adventurer” quite like strapping on gear that basically tells the wilderness, not today.
Will Savage
A good daypack is essential. I currently use the REI Co-op Trail 25 and love it! It is perfect for a day of hiking or exploring. I can fit extra layers, water bottles, and plenty of snacks. The bag has two mesh pockets for easy water bottle access, a zip pocket on the outside (perfect for snacks), and an inside zip pocket (perfect for your car keys). The backpack is versatile enough for casual use as it contains a laptop sleeve and has a pocket for storing your charging cords – without looking too bulky.
Beth Larcom
While not exactly a piece of gear, something I absolutely wish I had when I was leading for Overland is the game Five Crowns. I now bring a deck on every camping/backpacking trip, picnic excursion, or adventure with friends I go on, and I think Overland students would LOVE it. It’s a card game that’s essentially a bigger, better, more competitive game of gin rummy, sure to make every evening in camp (or long van ride) an absolute blast.
Jack Owens
This Holiday season, I am grateful for my Fenix HL18R-T Rechargeable Headlamp. This lightweight headlamp is a newer addition to my morning workouts, but it has already exceeded my expectations. With four levels of warm white light, four levels of cool white light, and an unmatched battery life, it really is the perfect headlamp for an early morning run or backcountry ski.
Lilly Bianchi
If I think it might be raining at any point, I like to have a mini drybag (anywhere from 1 to 5 liters) with me to stick things in, whether that’s a camera, wallet, or paper map! Though I have a pack cover and liner to keep my backpack dry, it really gives me peace of mind to know that my most important items are extra protected.
Katherine DeFrancesco
A piece of gear that I have been loving is my Skida Brim Hat. They have tons of fun colors and patterns (I have four different types!). They are super stylish and also keep the sun off your face. Because the brim is flat, sunglasses stay on top even when you are hiking and running! I wear mine all the time from multi day backpacking trips (to disguise my dirty hair) to a quick trip to the coffee shop down the road (as a fun accessory).
Emma Wheeler
I’ve recently discovered the joy of using a camelbak as my hydration system on trail, and it’s truly been a game changer. It’s a piece of gear that would’ve been SO helpful while leading, being able to drink handsfree without having to stop for a water break? C’mon! This allows for more time to explore and frees up hands to help kiddos out with pack adjustments!
Chelsea Colby
Before my first summer leading for Overland, I asked a returning leader if there was any gear she didn’t bring her first summer that she would recommend to me – she suggested an inflatable pillow. I stand by her statement and want to now pass this advice along to you all. Previously when camping, I had always used the “balled up extra clothing in your sleeping bag sack” method but as a leader you’re going to be spending every night in a tent for 8 weeks. This being the case, you need to find small ways to make the space feel cozy and like home. The Nemo Fillo Elite inflatable pillow fits this bill! It packs down really small, is lightweight, and adds a level of comfort that I found aided my ability to recharge. It is a game changer when it comes to helping you feel rested for your days on trail!
