by John ADV Fiberglass | May 13, 2025, 1:58PM
Overlanding isn’t just offroading. It’s about self-reliance, long distances, and unpredictable terrain. As the 2025 season begins, drivers are gearing up for deeper routes, longer trips, and more remote destinations.
If you’re planning to go off the grid, your rig needs more than just good tires.
If you’re planning an overland trip this season, here are the top vehicle modifications to help you go farther, stay safer, and avoid breakdowns on the trail.
Overlanding isn’t your weekend trail run.
You’re crossing rugged terrain, carrying extra weight, and camping for days or weeks at a time. You’ll need gear that works day after day, mile after mile.
Good vehicle prep helps you:
Avoid damage when the trail turns technical
Stay self-reliant when you're off-grid
Carry essentials without overloading your setup
Drive with more comfort and control over long distances
Here’s where to start.
More clearance isn’t just about looks, it’s about functionality.
Bigger tires help you clear rocks, ruts, and debris. But they can rub or damage factory body panels without extra space. That’s why many overlanders replace their OEM fenders and bedsides with wider, high-clearance alternatives.
The right fiberglass panels are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and built to last. At ADV Fiberglass, we’ve seen overlanders use our panels to avoid tire rub, shed weight, and handle tough terrain without worrying about panel flex or cracking.
How We Make Fiberglass Body Panels | Advanced Fiberglass
If you’re building for remote travel, better clearance can mean fewer headaches when the trail gets rough.
Space runs out fast once you factor in water, fuel, tools, and camp gear.
Roof racks help you get bulky or heavy gear out of the cabin—improving organization and comfort on longer drives. Rooftop tents offer a quick, secure way to sleep above ground, especially in areas with uneven terrain or wildlife.
Make sure your rack system works with any body upgrades you’ve installed, including hoods, bedsides, or canopies.
Overlanding puts extra stress on your suspension.
Loaded gear, full water tanks, and extra fuel all add up. Stock suspension often isn’t designed to handle that weight over long distances or rough terrain.
Upgrading your suspension can:
Improve comfort on long drives
Reduce sag and sway under load
Boost ground clearance and traction
Pairing suspension upgrades with modified fenders (like fiberglass options) gives your tires more room to move—important if you’re navigating deep ruts or uneven trails.
If you’ve ever watched your fuel gauge drop in the middle of nowhere, you know why this matters.
Overland routes can stretch hundreds of miles between services. Water is just as critical not just for drinking, but for cooking, cleaning, and emergencies.
Mounted tanks, rear carriers, and jerry cans are popular choices. Plan for both your daily needs and unexpected setbacks. A few extra gallons can make all the difference.
Daylight isn’t always an option.
You’ll need good lighting to:
Spot obstacles during technical sections
Set up camp after dark
Navigate when conditions change fast
Additions like LED bars, ditch lights, and rock lights improve visibility without drawing too much power. Solar panels, battery isolators, and power stations can help keep your fridge, GPS, and devices running without draining your main battery.
Overlanding means exploring the unknown—and sometimes, that includes surprise rocks, washouts, or stumps.
Skid plates, diff guards, and rock sliders protect the underbody and drivetrain from expensive damage. Even mellow trails can turn technical fast in bad weather, and remote areas often don’t offer a way to turn back.
If you're traveling solo or in small groups, these kinds of upgrades offer peace of mind and protection where recovery is tough.
Cell service rarely extends into the backcountry.
That’s why most overlanders carry:
Two-way or HAM radios
Satellite communicators
Offline navigation tools
It’s not just about convenience, it’s about safety. In an emergency, reliable tools can mean the difference between a small setback and a rescue operation.
Offline maps and dedicated nav systems also help you stay on route and track fuel range, elevation, and terrain features.
ADV Fiberglass panels are built for drivers who push their vehicles far beyond the pavement.
Designed for offroad durability, they’re tested in desert racing and trusted by weekend explorers alike. With over 25 years of manufacturing experience, our team prioritizes precision, fitment, and gold standard craftsmanship.
We know what it takes to prep a rig for overlanding—and we’re proud to be part of that journey.
TOYOTA TUNDRA | OVERLAND BUILD
Overlanding season is here, and preparation is everything.
The right vehicle upgrades don’t just improve comfort. They protect your gear, extend your range, and help you stay in control no matter where the trail leads.
From extra clearance to off-grid essentials, these mods make a real difference on remote adventures.
Key takeaways:
Fiberglass fenders and bedsides give you more clearance for bigger tires and tougher trails
Roof racks and rooftop tents help maximize space and stay comfortable at camp
Suspension upgrades handle added weight and improve ride quality
Fuel, water, lighting, and comms gear keep you self-sufficient in remote areas
Skid plates and armor protect critical components from unexpected trail damage
At ADV Fiberglass, we build the parts overlanders rely on. Designed for real-world conditions, tested by offroaders, and handcrafted for a perfect fit. Explore our full product line at ADV Fiberglass.
Join the adventure on Facebook and Instagram. Tag your rig using#ADVAdventures2025 to show us where you’re headed this season you might even get featured!