Overland Expo East, held in Arrington, Virginia, is more than just a trade show—it’s an immersive experience that brings together the best in overlanding culture, vehicles, and gear. Whether you’re an experienced overlander or someone looking to get into the hobby, this event offers something for everyone. This year’s expo was attended by over 14,500 people from 45 states and countries as far away as Argentina, Denmark, and New Zealand, creating an exciting atmosphere rich with international influence.
On this podcast episode, we explore the key highlights from Overland Expo East 2024: the camping experience, standout rigs, and must-have gear. By the end, you may be making your own Overland Expo reservations for 2025.
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The Camping Experience at Overland Expo East
I attended the event and camped on-site, bringing my rooftop tent setup for a weekend of adventure. General admission camping at Overland Expo East costs $200 and covers camping from Thursday night to Monday morning, with full access to the expo. While the grounds were a muddy mess, thanks to recent heavy rains and the natural bowl shape of the venue, that didn’t dampen spirits.
My setup worked well despite the challenging terrain. I used a Thule rooftop tent(https://www.thule.com/en-us/rooftop-tents) and added comforts like a Cabela’s privy tent(https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/cabelas-privacy-shower-shelter) and Camco’s portable travel toilet(https://www.camco.net/portable-toilets), which made camping in the humid conditions more manageable.
One of the benefits of Overland Expo camping is the ability to bring your own gear and truly test it in the elements, a key draw for overlanders. Campfires weren’t allowed, but propane fire pits, like the Big Red Campfire(https://www.campingworld.com/camco-big-red-campfire-propane-outdoor-portable-campfire-58164.html), filled the gap.
Next year, I plan to check out the upgraded camping area for better proximity to the vendors and bathrooms—a luxury that may be worth the extra cost, especially after seeing how challenging the conditions were this year.
Notable Rigs at Overland Expo East
Overland Expo is known for showcasing a wide array of rigs, from compact teardrop trailers to serious overlanding trucks, and this year’s event didn’t disappoint. Several standout rigs caught my eye, including:
– Bean Trailers (Salt Lake City, Utah): These teardrop trailers, made of vibrant fiberglass, stood out for their unique designs and impressive outdoor kitchens. With models like the Bean Squared featuring pop-up roofs, these trailers are both functional and stylish, albeit with a price tag starting around $35,000 to $45,000.
– Escapod Teardrops (Utah): Known for their craftsmanship and durable outdoor kitchens, these trailers offered another beautiful option for those seeking a compact, adventure-ready rig.
– Taxa Outdoors This company has become a staple in the overland community, with its Cricket and Woolly Bear models providing a lightweight, innovative option for campers. I’ve been a fan of Taxa since their debut at the Florida RV Super Show.
– Four Wheel Campers (California) and Scout Campers (Washington): These truck campers attracted a lot of attention, especially for their rugged capabilities and suitability for overlanding.
– Palomino Pause: Forest River’s overland trailer range was also a highlight, particularly the toy hauler, which had a crowd of admirers thanks to its spacious living areas and off-road readiness.
– Kimberly Kampers and Track Trailers: Imported from Australia, these high-quality trailers featured smart designs and were on display by their owners, giving visitors an authentic look at real-world setups.
– Winnebago and Storyteller Overland vans: The van life culture was well-represented with these brands showcasing their adventure-ready models. These 4×4 vans are increasingly popular among overlanders who seek a blend of mobility and comfort.
What makes Overland Expo East different from traditional RV shows is the experiential nature of the event. Many of the rigs on display are owned by individuals rather than dealerships, allowing visitors to get a closer look at how people use and personalize their vehicles.
Gear Highlights from Overland Expo East
Overlanding is just as much about the gear as it is about the rigs. The Expo showcased a wide array of products designed for life on the road, with independent, family-owned companies stealing the spotlight. Here are a few of the must-have gear items that stood out:
– Devos Outdoors LightRanger Lanterns: These telescoping lanterns are ideal for both overlanding and home use. I’ve used them for everything from cooking outdoors to playing basketball at night. Their newest model, the Light Ranger 2000, offers even more brightness and functionality.
– Thule Rooftop Tents: My Thule tent, which I tested for Good Housekeeping, continues to be a reliable overlanding staple, providing comfort and ease of set-up on every trip.
– Timbren Axle-Less Suspension: This innovative suspension system is gaining popularity among overlanders for its ability to handle rough terrain without sacrificing ride quality.
– Hest Outdoors Mattresses: Designed with overlanders in mind, Hest’s mattresses and bedding products are perfect for those using rooftop tents or van setups. The brand is known for producing high-quality sleep solutions that cater to the outdoor lifestyle.
– Airhead Composting Toilet: A favorite among overlanders looking for an eco-friendly option, the Airhead composting toilet provides an efficient way to manage waste in off-grid situations.
– Benchmade Knives: Known for their quality, Benchmade knives were a hit at the Expo, even if the $200-$500 price tag was steep for some. I snagged a free hat, but I might be adding a knife to my collection soon!
– Garmin & Midland Walkie Talkies: Essential for any overlanding adventure, these products ensure you stay connected and safe in remote areas.
Why Attend the Overland Expo?
Overland Expo East 2024 offered a glimpse into the future of overlanding and RVing, with emerging trends and innovative products that are sure to make their way into the mainstream market. From the immersive camping experience to the awe-inspiring rigs and top-notch gear, the event was a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
For anyone looking to explore the world of overlanding, this expo is a must-attend event. Whether you’re in the market for a new rig or just want to browse the latest gear, Overland Expo will provide you with inspiration for your next adventure.
Have you attended any of the Overland Expos across the country? Share your experience in the comments below or drop us a message on social media. We’d love to hear about your favorite rigs, gear, and moments from the event!
