What’s Included in a Fernweh Guided Expedition?
We take care of the logistics, planning, and essential safety elements so you can focus on the adventure. Every guided expedition includes:
- Expert Guides & Route Planning – No getting lost, no stressing about closed trails.
- Permits & Insurance – We handle the legal stuff so you don’t have to.
- Small Group Format – A tight-knit crew for a better experience.
- Safety & Recovery Support – Our guides are trained in off-road recovery and first aid.
- Camp Setup Assistance – Help with campsite logistics.
- For-Purpose Mission – Every trip includes an opportunity to give back.
On Select Expeditions: Chef-prepared meals & professional photography.
What Overland Gear You Need to Bring
Every participant is responsible for bringing:
- A capable off-road vehicle (unless renting through our partners).
- Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, cookware, etc.).
- Personal supplies (food, water, clothing, toiletries).
- Basic recovery gear (tow strap, full-size spare, jack).
- Seasonal essentials (sunblock, rain gear, or cold-weather layers).
Not sure what to pack? Check out our detailed packing lists below.
Off-Road Driving Techniques & Safety
Venturing off the pavement and into the wild offers an unmatched sense of freedom, but off-road driving requires skill, preparation, and an understanding of your vehicle’s capabilities.
Unlike city streets, trails can be unpredictable—loose sand, steep inclines, deep ruts, and rocky terrain all demand specific techniques to navigate safely. Mastering these fundamentals will keep you safe, protect your vehicle, and ensure a more enjoyable adventure.
Driving Safely on the Trail
Off-road recreation is on the rise, but many drivers miss out on essential skills that ensure a safe and fun experience. Here are some core techniques to follow:
- Drive Within Your Limits – Keep moderate speed in sand, mud, or snow to avoid getting stuck.
- Plan Your Route – Survey the trail ahead to avoid unexpected drop-offs or deep mud.
- Hill Safety – Always drive straight up or down to prevent rollovers.
- Tire Pressure for Traction – Lower to 18-20 psi for sand or gravel, then reset for highways.
- Crossing Obstacles – Approach at an angle to allow one tire to climb at a time.
Tire Considerations
- Mud Terrain Tires – Great for rugged terrain, noisy on highways.
- All-Terrain Tires – Balanced for off-road and pavement use.
Basic 4×4 Driving Techniques
- Hand Position: Keep thumbs outside the steering wheel to avoid injury if it jerks.
- Know Your Vehicle’s Limits: Understand your rig’s ground clearance and approach angles.
- Braking Over Obstacles: Release the brake just before impact to let the suspension absorb the shock.
- Vehicle Stability: 4WD vehicles have a higher center of gravity, so take turns carefully.
Vehicle Preparation & Maintenance
A well-prepared vehicle is the key to a safe and successful expedition. Overlanding takes you into remote areas where breakdowns can quickly become serious, so make sure your rig is in top condition before departure.
A simple pre-trip inspection can prevent unexpected mechanical failures, tire blowouts, and recovery challenges, so you to focus on the adventure instead of troubleshooting on the trail.
Below is a pre-departure maintenance checklist to help you get your rig trail-ready. Taking the time to go through these steps will extend the life of your vehicle, improve performance, and keep you safe in unpredictable terrain.
Pre-Departure Maintenance Checklist
- Fluids: Check engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid.
- Tires: Inspect tread and adjust pressure for the trail.
- Bolts & Brakes: Tighten lug nuts and check for loose bolts or frame cracks.
- Recovery Gear: Test the winch and inspect cables for wear.
Gear & Packing Checklists
Packing the right gear is essential for a safe and successful overland expedition. When you’re tackling rugged trails, remote desert landscapes, or high-altitude passes— being prepared can make or break your trip.
The right setup ensures you’re ready for anything. From vehicle breakdowns and unexpected weather to simple comforts like a warm, dry place to sleep after a long day on the trail.
This checklist covers the essentials you’ll need for off-road travel, including emergency supplies, recovery gear, and personal essentials.
Minimal Off-Road Checklist
- Emergency Kit: First Aid Kit, personal medications.
- Survival Essentials: Extra water, food, and warm clothing.
- Tire & Recovery: Full-size spare, jack, tire iron, tow strap, tree saver.
Safety & Survival Gear
- First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic, cold pack, gloves, pain relievers.
- Safety Gear: Fire extinguisher, flares, leather gloves, tarp.
- Personal Supplies: 1 gallon of water per person per day, knife, sunblock, rain jacket.
Vehicle Recovery & Tool Kit
- Recovery Gear: Tow straps, shackles, shovel, winch kit.
- Basic Tools: Socket set, screwdrivers, pliers, jumper cables.
- Multipurpose Items: Duct tape, bungee cords, rope, rags.
Spare Parts & Fluids
- Fluids: Extra engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid.
- Spare Parts: Fan belts, hoses, U-joints, tire repair kit.
Not sure if your gear is right? Our guides are happy to review your setup before the trip.
Camping Essentials
Overlanding isn’t just about the drive—it’s about where you sleep, eat, and unwind. After a long day on the trail, a well-equipped campsite can make all the difference, turning your overnight stop into a relaxing retreat. Having the right gear ensures you stay comfortable, well-fed, and prepared for any conditions.
A solid camping setup isn’t just about convenience—it’s about self-sufficiency in remote areas. From keeping your food fresh to staying warm on cold nights, every piece of gear plays a role in making your expedition smoother.
With the right preparation, your campsite becomes more than just a place to sleep—it’s where you recharge, share stories around the fire, and take in the incredible landscapes around you.
Camping Gear Checklist
- Overnight Gear: Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad.
- Cooking Supplies: Stove, fuel, utensils, food storage. (on select expeditions, we provide catered meals)
- Navigation: GPS, maps, compass.
- Lighting: Headlamp, flashlight, lantern.
- Waste Management: Trash bags, toilet paper, trowel.
Pre-departure Maintenance Checklist
Weather can be unpredictable. Pack for unexpected conditions, no matter the season. One day, you’re enjoying clear blue skies, and the next, you’re battling strong winds, sudden rain, or freezing overnight temperatures.
Packing for the season—and being prepared for unexpected changes—ensures comfort, safety, and a better overall experience.
Even in warm climates, temperatures can drop significantly at night, and high-altitude regions can see snow even in summer. The key to seasonal preparedness is layering, bringing the right gear for temperature extremes, and always packing emergency essentials.
A well-prepared overlander isn’t just thinking about today’s weather—they’re ready for whatever nature throws their way.
Winter Essentials
- Insulated sleeping bag
- Emergency blanket
- Hand warmers
- Extra fuel for your stove
Summer Essentials
- High-SPF sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing
Ready to Roll?
We know that preparation makes or breaks an overland adventure. That’s why we provide the best guided expeditions—where all you have to do is show up and send it.
- Need a checklist review? Our guides will check your setup before departure.
- Want expert recommendations? Contact us for gear advice.
- Still need a vehicle? We partner with GoCamp & Outdoorsy for rentals.
Check out our guided expeditions to get your next adventure on the calendar. Where will you go next?