Blog – Trail Traveler

December 17, 2025

Harbor Freight Overlanding Gear: What’s Worth Buying?

Can you really build a capable overlanding rig using only gear from Harbor Freight? We head to the store to find the best budget off-road tools, recovery gear, and camping essentials that won’t break the bank.

In this video, we’re testing the durability and value of Harbor Freight’s most popular 4×4 accessories. From Apache cases to recovery straps, find out which items are hidden gems and which ones you should probably avoid for your Jeep or truck build.

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

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#4×4 #4x4offroad #jeep #jeepwrangler #overlanding #moab #utah #colorado #offroad #offroading #travel #adventure #jeeplife #jeeplifestyle#Overlanding #HarborFreight #BudgetBuild #CampingGear
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Join our Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/TrailTraveler

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Sign up for our newsletter
https://thetrailtraveler.com/newsletter/
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JEEP GEAR
Yankum Ropes & Recovery Gear (10% discount): https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/yankum-ropes
EZ Flate Inflation System: https://ezflate.com/ Save 10% with code COFB10
https://www.oraclelights.com/?ref=KERRYGARRISON Save 10% with code TRAILTRAVELER
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OVERLANDING GEAR
Devos Camp Light: http://www.devosoutdoor.com/?rstr=trailtraveler Save 10% with ‘Trail Traveler’
SetPower Fridges – 16% off with discount code Trail Traveler https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/setpower
Dometic Fridges and Gear: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/dometic
Bluetti Power Stations: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/bluetti
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JEEP BUILD
The Edge 4×4 Automotive: https://theedgeautomotive.com/

Follow our builds at:

Bagheera (Gladiator) https://revkit.com/bagheera/
Optimus (Wrangler) https://revkit.com/trailtraveler/
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Check out our Amazon store at:
http://www.amazon.com/shop/trailtraveler

December 13, 2025

slidercategory, Videos

Dome Plateau Adventure: Wheeling with Our Adult Kids & Best Friends!

Get ready for some serious off-road fun! We loaded up the rigs and headed out to tackle the spectacular Dome Plateau Trail near Moab, Utah. But this wasn’t just any trip—we were joined by our adult kids and some of our dearest, closest friends!

This trail is famous for its breathtaking views of the La Sal Mountains, Fisher Towers, and the Colorado River. Watch as our convoy navigates challenging ledges, sandy washes, and incredible slickrock obstacles. It was an amazing chance to unplug, make some lasting memories, and watch the next generation of wheelers put their skills to the test!

Did our family make it up the tough spots? Which rig got the best flex? Watch until the end to see the stunning sunset views and all the laughs along the way!

What You’ll See in This Video:
Family & Friends: The whole crew tackling the trail together!

Dome Plateau Highlights: Incredible views of Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountains.

Off-Road Action: Rock crawling, ledges, and technical driving sections.

Camp Life: Trailside lunch, laughs, and good times with the people we love.

Trail Specs & Location:
Location: Dome Plateau, Moab, Utah

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (requires high clearance 4×4)

Must-See Spot: That one crazy overlook! (You’ll know it when you see it!)

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

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#4×4 #4x4offroad #jeep #jeepwrangler #overlanding #moab #utah #colorado #offroad #offroading #travel #adventure #jeeplife #jeeplifestyle
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Join our Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/TrailTraveler

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Follow our builds at:

December 8, 2025

slidercategory, Videos

Power Your Starlink Mini Anywhere – PeakDo LinkPower

The PeakDo LinkPower is a portable power solution designed specifically for Starlink Mini, and we’re testing it in real overlanding conditions. If you’re running Starlink Mini off-grid for remote work, trail communication, or backcountry connectivity, this dedicated power bank might be exactly what you need – or it might not. Here’s our honest assessment.

Starlink Mini has changed the game for overlanders who need reliable internet in remote locations, but powering it efficiently has been a challenge. The PeakDo LinkPower claims to solve that problem with a purpose-built battery system. We put it through real-world testing to see if it delivers on the promise.

WHO THIS IS FOR:
– Overlanders running Starlink Mini for extended off-grid periods
– Remote workers needing reliable backcountry internet
– Trail travelers who need connectivity without draining vehicle batteries
– Anyone wanting dedicated Starlink Mini power solution

PRODUCT SPECS:
Battery Capacity: 99Wh
Starlink Mini Runtime: 4 Hours+
Size: 9.56″ x 4.52″ x 1.06″
Weight; 1.42lbs
Travel: Airline Approved
Price: $139
Where to Buy: https://www.peakdo.com/PeakDo-LinkPower-Power-Bank-and-Mount-for-Starlink-Mini-p6467650.html

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Follow our builds at:

December 4, 2025

slidercategory, Videos

Bangs Canyon Jeep Run Gets SKETCHY | Grand Junction

Extreme overlanding adventure through some of the gnarliest terrain outside Grand Junction, Colorado. We tackle Billings Canyon Access Road to score an epic riverside campsite on the Gunnison River, then push our Jeep to the limit on Windmill Road before hitting the infamous Tabeguache Trail where off-camber shelf roads will test your nerve and your rig.

TRAIL BREAKDOWN:
Day 1 – Billings Canyon Access Road: Remote access route leading to a primo campsite right on the Gunnison River. Dispersed camping at its finest with zero crowds and killer views.

Day 2 – Windmill Road to Tabeguache Trail: Technical 4×4 rock crawling with extreme off-camber sections and exposed shelf roads. One wrong move and you’re learning what your insurance deductible is. This is advanced terrain – lockers and experience required.

LOCATION DETAILS:
Area: Outside Grand Junction, Colorado / Uncompahgre National Forest
Difficulty: Advanced (Tabeguache Trail sections are no joke)
Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4×4, lockers highly recommended, 35-inch tires minimum
Best Season: Late spring through fall (check conditions)

00:00 – Intro & Trail Overview
00:57 – Billings Canyon Access Road
12:56 – Gunnison River Campsite Arrival
15:44 – Morning Departure
16:23 – Windmill Road Start
26:19 – Tabeguache Trail Entrance
30:35 – First Major Obstacle
45:34 – Most Sketchy Shelf Road
47:18 – Trail Exit & Wrap-Up

WHAT YOU’LL SEE:
• Wild off-camber shelf roads that’ll pucker your seat
• Technical rock obstacles requiring precise line choice
• Remote Colorado backcountry with minimal traffic
• Gunnison River camping spot worth the drive

GEAR NOTES:
• Recovery gear is mandatory – bring a winch, traction boards, and a buddy
• Spotters recommended for the sketchy sections
• Full-size spare and tools (you’re far from help)

Trail Traveler delivers honest overlanding and off-road gear reviews for Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 4×4 enthusiasts. We test gear on real trails across the Western US—no sponsored BS, just what actually works when you’re miles from pavement.

Subscribe for weekly trail guides and gear reviews that’ll keep your rig running and your adventures rolling.

#GrandJunctionColorado #TabeguacheTrail #GunnisonRiver #OverlandingColorado #JeepTrails #4x4Adventures #RockCrawling #OffCamberTrails #UncompahgreNationalForest #ExtremeOverlanding

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Follow our builds at:

November 29, 2025

slidercategory, Videos

Surviving Blair Mountain – Extreme Storm Forces Us to Clear Trail in Colorado Flattops

We left Adams Lake Campground in pouring rain, not knowing we were about to face one of the most challenging overlanding days in the Colorado Flattops. What started as wet, slippery terrain turned into a full-blown storm on Blair Mountain with heavy wind, hail, sleet, and snow.

The real challenge came when we encountered five massive trees blown across the trail. We had to break out recovery gear and chainsaws to clear a path forward. After battling the elements all day, we set up camp and woke to incredible views at Aldrich Lakes before pushing north to Craig, Colorado.

This 51-minute adventure shows the reality of overlanding in Colorado’s high country when weather turns extreme. If you’re planning a Flattops trip, this is what you need to prepare for.

⏱️ KEY TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – Intro
01:59 – Leaving Adams Lake
05:22 – We hit deep mud
13:04 – Let the obstacles begin
14:21 – The snow rolls in
17:29 – Two trees down
26:47 – Tree number 3
30:37 – Tree number 4
33:24 – Tree number 5
37:15 – Looking For Camp
39:32 – Heading to Aldrich Lakes
48:53 – Craig Colorado

🗺️ ROUTE DETAILS:
Start: Adams Lake Campground
Key Point: Blair Mountain (extreme weather section)
Highlight: Aldrich Lakes
End: Craig, Colorado
Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (weather-dependent)
Vehicle Requirements: High-clearance 4×4, recovery gear essential

⚠️ TRAIL CONDITIONS:
– Heavy mud when wet
– Downed trees common after storms
– Exposed high-elevation sections prone to extreme weather
– Snow/hail possible even in summer months
– Cell service: Limited to none

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

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#4×4 #4x4offroad #jeep #jeepwrangler #overlanding #moab #utah #colorado #offroad #offroading #travel #adventure #jeeplife #jeeplifestyle #ColoradoOverlanding #FlatTops #OffRoadAdventure #JeepLife #4x4Trails #OverlandingColorado #BlairMountain #ExtremeWeather #TrailObstacles #ColoradoTrails
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Join our Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/TrailTraveler

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Shot on ⁠@DJI
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JEEP GEAR
Yankum Ropes & Recovery Gear (10% discount): https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/yankum-ropes
EZ Flate Inflation System: https://ezflate.com/ Save 10% with code COFB10
https://www.oraclelights.com/?ref=KERRYGARRISON Save 10% with code TRAILTRAVELER
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OVERLANDING GEAR
Devos Camp Light: http://www.devosoutdoor.com/?rstr=trailtraveler Save 10% with ‘Trail Traveler’
SetPower Fridges – 16% off with discount code Trail Traveler https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/setpower
Dometic Fridges and Gear: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/dometic
Bluetti Power Stations: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/bluetti
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JEEP BUILD
The Edge 4×4 Automotive: https://theedgeautomotive.com/

Follow our builds at:

November 27, 2025

postcategory1, Videos

ICECO VL45ProS Review – Is This $600 Overlanding Fridge Worth It?

Is the ICECO VL45ProS worth your money for overlanding and off-road trips? In this honest review, I put this 45-liter portable fridge freezer through real-world testing to see how it performs on the trail.

The ICECO VL45ProS is a single-zone 12v fridge freezer with a SECOP compressor backed by a 5-year warranty. It cools from 0-50F, runs on 12/24V DC or 110-240V AC, and features a unique multi-opening side lid that lets you access from either side or remove completely. At 50 lbs and 28 inches long, it fits most Jeep Wranglers, Gladiators, and 4×4 setups.

Key features I tested: dual DC ports, USB charging, 3-level battery protection, Eco and Max modes, removable basket for tall bottles, LED interior light, and quiet 45dB operation. The steel construction with bumper guards held up well, and it operates at up to 40-degree tilt for off-road conditions.

I cover real power consumption numbers, how it performs in hot weather, noise levels, build quality concerns, and whether the multi-opening lid is actually useful or just a gimmick. Plus, I compare it to other portable refrigerators in this price range so you know if this is the right overlanding fridge for your Jeep or truck.

If you’re looking for an honest take on the ICECO VL45ProS for camping, van life, or off-roading, this review gives you everything you need to make an informed decision.

Product Links

https://icecofreezer.com/TRAILTRAVELER

ICECO BFCM Deals on Nov 25–Dec 1: 20% off sitewide on all ICECO fridges & accessories
https://icecofreezer.com/TRAILTRAVELER

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Sign up for our newsletter
https://thetrailtraveler.com/newsletter/
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JEEP GEAR
Yankum Ropes & Recovery Gear (10% discount): https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/yankum-ropes
EZ Flate Inflation System: https://ezflate.com/ Save 10% with code COFB10
https://www.oraclelights.com/?ref=KERRYGARRISON Save 10% with code TRAILTRAVELER
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OVERLANDING GEAR
Devos Camp Light: http://www.devosoutdoor.com/?rstr=trailtraveler Save 10% with ‘Trail Traveler’
Bluetti Power Stations: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/bluetti
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JEEP BUILD
The Edge 4×4 Automotive: https://theedgeautomotive.com/

Follow our builds at:

November 24, 2025

postcategory1, Videos

Super In Depth BougeRV Diesel Heater Test

🔴 Instant Saving on Amazon – BougeRV Portable Diesel heater: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F93Z998L?maas=maas_adg_4D164494FFF7600D5C8A5A3E169BD496_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas

🔴 Use coupon code trail on Official Site: https://bit.ly/4nQN7GC

🎁Get up to 66%-70% OFF, cash back, a high-value mystery box and a special gift for all new subscribers here! (30-day price guarantee):https://www.bougerv.com/pages/black-friday?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=trailtraveler&utm_campaign=kol-dieselheater&utm_id=kol&utm_term=dieselheater&utm_content=haerin

Is the BougeRV Diesel Heater the ultimate solution for winter camping and van life? In this video, I’m putting the BougeRV Portable 5KW Diesel Heater to the test! We’ll cover unboxing, setup, fuel efficiency, and—most importantly—how fast it actually heats up a cold space.

What’s Inside This Review: I’ll walk you through the “all-in-one” design that promises a 2-minute setup and test its noise levels to see if you can actually sleep next to it. Whether you are overlanding, truck camping, or just trying to keep your garage warm, this deep dive will help you decide if this heater is right for your rig.

🔥 Key Features We Cover:

– Heating Performance: How quickly does the 5KW output warm up a tent/RV?

– Smart Control: Is the Bluetooth app and key fob remote actually useful?

– Portability: Weighing only ~22lbs, is it easy to haul?

– Efficiency: Real-world fuel consumption test (0.14–0.43 L/h).

– Noise Test: Is it really under 70dB?

👇 Jump to the Section You Need

00:00 Intro
00:45 Unboxing
09:57 Looking at the inside
17:20 Power Station Test
23:02 Using the app
30:27 Sound Level Test
36:54 Fuel Consumption Test
40:30 Real World Test
49:53 Conclusion

Big thanks to our sponsors

Dirtbox Overland – Mention Trail Traveler for a discount
http://dirtboxoverland.com

Progressive Suspension
http://progressivesuspension.com

Clayton Offroad
http://claytonoffroad.com

Super Springs Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15
https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super-springs

Trail Traveler Merch: https://bit.ly/TrailMerch

Check out the Trails Off-Road All Access Pass – Save 25% with this link
https://www.trailsoffroad.com/all-access?fpr=kerry87&coupon=trail_traveler

Follow our builds at:

November 21, 2025

Camping/Overlanding, postcategory1, Product Reviews, Videos

This $169 Diesel Heater Ran 31 Hours on One Tank (Sunster HTB1 Review)

We put the Sunster HTB1 diesel heater through a real-world test, and the results surprised us. This budget-friendly heater delivered 31 hours and 23 minutes of continuous runtime on a single tank of fuel while running overnight in pouring rain without any issues.

November 19, 2025

Camping/Overlanding, Jeep Mods/Upgrades, postcategory1, Product Reviews, Videos

OpenRoad Awning and Shower Curtain – Excellent Value For Overlanders

The OpenRoad awning and shower curtain are outstanding mid-range value products that solve real problems on the trail. Both offer excellent build quality and features at prices that won’t break the bank. Here’s my honest take after testing them.

November 14, 2025

Jeep Mods/Upgrades, postcategory1, Videos

Building A Bulletproof Power System For My Jeep Gladiator

After two portable power station failures on remote trails cost me hundreds of dollars and nearly ruined trips, I built a permanent 200Ah LiFePO4 electrical system for my Jeep Gladiator. This video shows the complete installation and results from a 7-day off-grid test through Colorado and Utah.