Pros and Cons of Overlanding with Trailers
It might be exciting, but choosing an overlanding trailer isn’t easy, and it’s definitely not cheap. If you’re considering one, you probably realize some of the pros of overlanding with trailers. Without a doubt, they offer more space, organization, and the “cool” factor of a tricked-out overlanding trailer is unbeatable. But don’t get out your checkbook yet - it’s important to understand the cons of overlanding with trailers, which are often overlooked. Keep reading as we dive into the details to see if investing in an overlanding trailer is the right choice for you.
Take one look at overland trailers and it’s obvious that extra storage space is one of the biggest benefits. Imagine all the gear, sleeping space, and equipment that could be neatly organized away from the vehicle. Let’s face it, overlanding without a trailer takes a strategic approach to organizing and using gear so you don’t end up with a mess on the first day. With a trailer, you can get most of the gear out of the vehicle so you can focus on the adventure itself.
The options for trailers are truly endless and customizable - you can get a trailer with an elaborate cooking setup, space for rooftop tents, creative and spacious storage, and much more. Your overlanding trailer can be designed exactly to your needs and is only limited by imagination and budget. Some are similar to camper trailers with a comfortable interior and sleeping space, bringing comfort to the most remote destinations. This is also perfect when you want to set up a base camp and leave the trailer behind as you explore for the day.
Other trailers are more utilitarian - small and durable so they can go anywhere and built to only store gear and a spare tire. Speaking of tires, many overlanders match the trailer tire size to the vehicle so that the spare works for either one. Additionally, an overlanding trailer capable of handling rough terrain means you can possibly get by with a smaller vehicle. This may give you the ability to use your daily driver for overlanding, without having to invest in an expensive truck or Jeep.
But all of that comes at a price. There are truly pros and cons with every aspect of an overland trailer. Purpose-built overlanding trailers cost thousands of dollars and while some people design and build their own, that takes time and skill. While bigger overland trailers offer supreme comfort, your trailer components become increasingly complex and often cost more to replace. This could include axles, trailer brakes, and the electrical system. Plus, hefty trailers are difficult to get out when they’re stuck in mud or snow, while a small trailer can be moved by hand.
Then there are the additional risks when anyone pulls a trailer - it’s more gear that can break down, it adds stress to the tow vehicle, and driving becomes more complicated. Taking any trailer off-road magnifies these potential challenges. While you gain storage and organization, fuel economy decreases and you lose maneuverability in tight spaces, mud, and snow.
Before considering a trailer, look closely at your specific needs and the vehicle you plan on using. Towing a trailer requires knowing your towing capacity and understanding the weakest link in your setup. Plus, you don’t want to underestimate trailer weight when it’s loaded down with extra gear, fuel, and water.
While the cons of overlanding with a trailer may feel overwhelming, don’t forget that once you have a vehicle and trailer that complement each other, the comfort and versatility are tough to beat. It truly comes down to your specific situation. The trailer pros and cons listed here will influence some more than others, so it’s critical to understand how you’ll spend the majority of your time overlanding and make a decision that’ll benefit you the most. Be realistic, practical, and thorough in your research, and you’ll certainly make the best decision.
The Pros and Cons of Overlanding With Trailers
Take one look at overland trailers and it’s obvious that extra storage space is one of the biggest benefits. Imagine all the gear, sleeping space, and equipment that could be neatly organized away from the vehicle. Let’s face it, overlanding without a trailer takes a strategic approach to organizing and using gear so you don’t end up with a mess on the first day. With a trailer, you can get most of the gear out of the vehicle so you can focus on the adventure itself.
The options for trailers are truly endless and customizable - you can get a trailer with an elaborate cooking setup, space for rooftop tents, creative and spacious storage, and much more. Your overlanding trailer can be designed exactly to your needs and is only limited by imagination and budget. Some are similar to camper trailers with a comfortable interior and sleeping space, bringing comfort to the most remote destinations. This is also perfect when you want to set up a base camp and leave the trailer behind as you explore for the day.
Other trailers are more utilitarian - small and durable so they can go anywhere and built to only store gear and a spare tire. Speaking of tires, many overlanders match the trailer tire size to the vehicle so that the spare works for either one. Additionally, an overlanding trailer capable of handling rough terrain means you can possibly get by with a smaller vehicle. This may give you the ability to use your daily driver for overlanding, without having to invest in an expensive truck or Jeep.
But all of that comes at a price. There are truly pros and cons with every aspect of an overland trailer. Purpose-built overlanding trailers cost thousands of dollars and while some people design and build their own, that takes time and skill. While bigger overland trailers offer supreme comfort, your trailer components become increasingly complex and often cost more to replace. This could include axles, trailer brakes, and the electrical system. Plus, hefty trailers are difficult to get out when they’re stuck in mud or snow, while a small trailer can be moved by hand.
Then there are the additional risks when anyone pulls a trailer - it’s more gear that can break down, it adds stress to the tow vehicle, and driving becomes more complicated. Taking any trailer off-road magnifies these potential challenges. While you gain storage and organization, fuel economy decreases and you lose maneuverability in tight spaces, mud, and snow.
Before considering a trailer, look closely at your specific needs and the vehicle you plan on using. Towing a trailer requires knowing your towing capacity and understanding the weakest link in your setup. Plus, you don’t want to underestimate trailer weight when it’s loaded down with extra gear, fuel, and water.
Is a Trailer Right For You?
While the cons of overlanding with a trailer may feel overwhelming, don’t forget that once you have a vehicle and trailer that complement each other, the comfort and versatility are tough to beat. It truly comes down to your specific situation. The trailer pros and cons listed here will influence some more than others, so it’s critical to understand how you’ll spend the majority of your time overlanding and make a decision that’ll benefit you the most. Be realistic, practical, and thorough in your research, and you’ll certainly make the best decision.
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