Essential Advice for Overlanders
Insurance
Of course you should be insured, it is unlikely you will be allowed on any truck unless you are insured. But this can be a headache to organise, trying to compare what you are covered for and where. Companies sometimes use a particular insurer but it probably isnt the most competive on the market. But on the other hand it will cover you for nearly all adventure activites under the sun. Unfortunately you do need to take a close look at the small print as this can be your saviour, medical bills are expensive so be prepared. Even travelling at altitude can have adverse affects on people.
Visas
Make sure you check your personal visa requirements for the countries you will be travelling in, as companies may provide you with “advice” but things can change very quickly and sometimes their advice is simply wrong or outdated.
Lenght of time
Really consider the length of time you will be travelling with a company. These trips tend to be relentless and sometimes you just don’t get to stay in places that you would like to. Some companies are flexible and allow you to get on other trucks or get off your truck and catch it up latter - but check with the company before you start.
If you plan to travel around a continent for instance, consider taking a pre planned break somewhere mid way simply to get off the truck and sit back - otherwise you won’t appreciate the moment. And if you are on a combined tour remember to check how long you have in the in-between starting legs. It is usually a few days and sometimes you wont have enough time to check out the town. Remember, it is amazing how things such as laundry, communication and shopping use up time.
Cost
The cost of the trip is significant - check between companies on what they include as additional excursions, these can quickly add up so make sure you budget for every excursion - and add something extra as generally speaking prices tend to be at least 10% more expensive when you get there.
Before you purchase a tour shop around, contact the company directly to see what discounts they have on offer and check their websites for late minute deals. Remember to check currency conversions when purchasing from outside the company’s home country. And always remember travel agencies get a commission.
I also would recommend going to travel events to get an idea of the companies and what they offer, these usually happen early in the year. Check out the events page to see what is coming up. In addition, some companies offer evening talks enabling you to ask questions and get a better idea of how they operate.
Finally before you book make sure the company is AITO protected or has some sort of recognised financial backup, as overlanding companies have been known to go bust leaving passengers stranded.
Vaccinations
The usual medical advice applies: check with your doctor and speak to your nurse to see what is required in terms of shots or malaria tablets. In terms of cost, you will have to pay for some of the more exotic injections but in the UK many are available on the NHS for free or a small charge. Private travel clinics will of course charge extra. Malaria tablets can be bought in some countries however you should be certain before you leave.
What is Overlanding
The literal definition of travelling overland is: Accomplished, traversing, or passing over the land instead of the ocean: an overland journey; an overland route.
However, today not only this definition has widened to include sea travel but it also, and more importantly, is used to describe adventure tourism as a whole.
Overlanders are people who are willing to spend more time whilst travelling, prefer buses to planes and to whom the journey is more important than the destination.
This type of travelling has been around for many years and there are many people before us who, being thirsty for adventure and with natural curiosity, made way for future generations to be able to experience adventure in whatever time our holiday allowance permits. Travel writers have long now tantalised our travel taste buds and as borders open and foreign and exotic countries are easier to explore (and of course increased disposable income), we become more adventurous and brave with our travels. And by addressing this need, the overlanding industry has flourished.
Overlanding involves exploring remote areas (in addition to the usual places of interest), travelling either by public transport (in any form that is offered in each country) or in any odd vehicle, ranging from an old land rover to a large custom built truck. As a result of huge demand in this field, there has been a shift in trend to include any form of land based transport from donkeys and llamas to trains and tuk tuks.
Overlanding as an organised industry began in the 1960’s but has evolved over the years. The original pioneers, who did risk life and limb when starting, are still operating now offering years of expertise. Of course, as with any market, there have been ups and downs, take overs and all sorts of dramas, but one thing hasn?t changed: the drive to explore new places.
Commercial overlanding typically involves travelling by road through a country or across a continent visiting not only main attractions but also those hard to (conventionally) reach places and vary in duration from 2 weeks to several months. There are so many different routes and activities on offer, from travelling ancient trade routes to having the opportunity to do adventure sports, helping local environmental and community projects or just lounge around and put the world at right?All trips include a tour leader who represents the company and in some cases, a local guide is provided, i.e when travelling through Africa or Mongolia.
In recent times overlanding has been considered a more environmentally friendly way of travelling rather than flying but ultimately its green credentials are still debatable, as there are always two sides to a coin.
There are quite few overlanding companies around, some of them operating their own vehicles and some just facilitating public transport travel by escorting travellers. Each one has various options on offer based on the cost, the type of adventure you want to experience or how physical you want to get; accommodation type available varies from the most basic campsite to luxury hotels; inclusive or exclusive of additional activities and many, many, many other parameters, which all have to be considered when deciding if and which company you are going to join.
For a list of overlanding companies, click here
1 http://www.thefreedictionary.com/overland
Why Overland
Lets face it: with a bit of determination and common sense you can get to anywhere in the world independently. Europe, the Americas and even Asia have an extensively well established public transport network and geared with an open mind, patience and most importantly time you can access?well, the world!
But overlanding with a company ? even though it takes the edge of the adventure and the some of the opportunities to mix with locals - should make it easier.
Few of the reasons people use an overland company to travel with are:
- First and foremost, time constraints. There are companies out there that will get you around a country (even few in some cases) in about 2 weeks.
- Security - be it in numbers (!) or even safe keeping your personal belongings
- Local knowledge. In most instances, your guide has been there before and knows the best places to see, eat, sleep and go out.
- Route, transport and accommodation are already planned for. If staying in a city, meals depend on your budget and when/if camping, shopping is done at the last port of call
- Sharing your experiences with a group. Many people enjoy the interaction with people they would normally socialize with back home.
- Making new friends. You will meet people from all over the world and forge lifelong friendships.
These are only few of the reasons of why people travel with organized overlanding companies. Each one of us has their own reasons for choosing this type of travelling and a bit of an advice: never judge people before you get to know them ? don’t assume that they have the same background as you and the same reasons for joining a group. This is yours and theirs time off, so keep your mind open!
However , the cost can be quite significant, depending on the type of tour and the length of period you are likely to travel. You really need to do your homework and check what the companies offer, what is included in the price, for instance entrances to places of interest, group activities, etc. Some companies offer discounts on future trips if you decide to part your money with them. There are various adventure shows around the country where companies may do promotions. So, shop around and you will be surprised of the plethora of companies and what they offer! Click here for a list of overlanding companies.
Overlanding is a life changing experience, which will challenge you both mentally and physically. Take a chance and enjoy!
Happy travels!
What to Expect as an Overlander
As far as travelling is concerned…don’t expect anything! Have an open mind and take each place as it comes.
But….
The Crew
Driver or tour leaders have a tough job. Lets face it they don’t do this for the money, but rather for the adventure. It is a tough job driving long hours and having to deal with people 24 hours a day. Their main job tends to be looking after the Truck and in general keeping the whole trip running smoothly. Different companies run either one or two drivers, the cheaper the trip more the likelihood of a single driver, which has some drawbacks in terms of backup and when travelling long distances. Check if you are comfortable with the lack of security or prefer two drivers.
Don’t expect them to know the language of the country you are visiting - or for that matter even the exact route of the trip. Although the difference between those who have done a route and those who haven’t is remarkable, it is unfortunate that companies cannot keep drivers for long periods of time. You as the client will receive a smoother and more fulling experience as drivers have a wealth of information. However, for the more adventurous out there, going on a “discovery” trips where everything is new to everyone it can be fulfilling as well!
Although the crew can be fantastic like every job you will find bad apples therefore any serious complaints about misconduct should be swift and directed to the company head office and wherever possible documented. You should never feel stuck in a situation you feel uncomfortable.
On a lighter note drivers are not very useful in major cities - they are either working on the trucks or enjoying the time they have off in the city.
And expect to hear “rock on” - seems to be a term drilled into overlanding crew !
Fellow Travellers
Don’t expect to get on with everyone on your trip no matter what companies say about travelling with “like minded people”. Generally speaking it tends to be people from the Ireland, UK, Australia, New Zealand, US and then a smaller mix of people from around the world.
Having said that you are likely to make some close friends with whom you will keep in touch with for the rest of your life - and it does tend to be a very social and shared experience.
It is likely that alcohol will become a part of the trip, this can be light hearted and generally speaking not really a problem. However some people have a problem with alcohol and this may adversely effect your trip. However companies policies tend to be strict and people have been known to be thrown off trips or leave on there own accord due to bad behaviour.
Overlanding has been seen in some quarters as “party trucks” and some companies actively promote themselves as such. Which is fine just make sure you choice a company that suits your needs.
The Trucks
Expect the unexpected - trucks break down , get stuck in the mud - or as when we where out and about, a piece of metal tore the diesel tank and it had to be repaired in the middle of no-where - this is when the leaders show there true worth. Be patient! Beauty can be found anywhere and you will always have a story to tell.
However it is worth knowing the contingency plans and policies of the company you will travel with regarding break downs. As it is not uncommon for trips to have to grind to a halt and travel by other means or for trips to be cancelled. So make sure you are comfortable with whatever the company provides.
Trucks vary greatly, for instance the Dragoman trucks can carry around 24 people - not fun when it is full. Encounter trucks tend to be older and a little more rough and ready. Tucan trucks are more like buses, enormous, stand out like a sore thumb and carry around 30 people but are more comfortable and are probably the fastest trucks around. On the downside, they cannot travel everywhere. Whilst Kumuka run some trucks which everyone faces each other so do a little investigating.
Luggage storage can also vary, with some trucks having storage under your seat, at as a large locker at the back of the truck or in side panels along the side of the truck. It varies from company and individual truck.
In each continent there are different trucks adapted for the specific demands. Check how many people will travel with you and think carefully whether you are comfortable with that number.
Most trucks come equipped with a safe, fridge and some sort of viewing area. However don’t expect much in the way of space. Or items such as a laptop, GPS or a mobile phone, which is insane and says more about cost cutting rather than keeping the experience “real”. Of course you are looking for a bit of adventure but trust me you really wont appreciate getting lost having travelled hours and hours in a truck only to find you have been heading in the wrong direction.
Food
What you eat will depend on where you are visiting and if you have any good cooks in your group. If not, “spam” may be on the menu. Try and be inventive, visit local markets and try exotic foods, use the recommended recipes that some trucks have and don’t forget to add yours.
In Africa many companies employ cooks and helpers so that food can be purchased in local markets.
Everyone is expected to muck in - help set up cooking facilities and generally maintain the cleanliness of the interior of the truck. You will become familar with the term “flapping”, so you will have to be happy to help everyone out. This will make your trip more memorable and enjoyable. Don’t forget : other people are on there holidays as well. They are not your mothers to pick up your mess after you.
Daily Routine
Expect to up very early in the mornings ! - especially when you are camping, you will have to move early to be able to cover the distance.
Sometimes you may be able to upgrade - from your tent to a room for a few extra dollars. A bed now and again and your own shower can refresh you to carry on, this is especially true if you have been travelling for a long time.
Toilet & Showers
You have to be prepared to pee on the side of the road which can actually be more hygienic than some public facilities. This will be worse when travelling at altitude as you will be advised to drink plenty of fluids. Of course this means more toilet stops.
Toilets around the world are very different so be mentally prepared for anything. Remember in lots of places in the world you cannot flush toilet paper down the lavatory and in many places squat toilets are the norm which takes a little time to get used to. You should be able to shower once a day but this really depends where you go and what time of year, as you might expect in Africa water is short supply so a bucket may be all you get. In many places you might encounter the “electric shower” generally means some sort of filament heats up the water on the fly. As you can imagine this is not the safest nor should you expect more than a trickle of hot water or you resign yourself to cold showers. Hotels of course vary in quality as they do back home, but in some cases you may be pleasantly surprised as we were whilst in the middle of Torres del Paine national park there where fantastic hot showers and toilet facilities.
Post
After purchasing souvenirs in local markets, sending it back home can be a little complicated and costly. Generally speaking DHL or FedEx is going to be expensive, but you are pretty much guaranteed to receive your parcel. Local postal services are not as reliable but significant cheaper.
However depending on the truck you travel on buying large items either wont fit in the truck or wont be appreciated by fellow travellers particular if space and long drives become an issue.
What to take
Whoever you travel with is likely to provide you with a long list of recommended items so we wont repeat that list. But the following should provide you details for those things which may not stand out at first but are practical, or simply a nudge to make sure you do pack it.
Generally speaking the companies will provide you with the necessary camping equipment. The quality may vary but it should all be in working order. So you really shouldn’t need to take anything on that front.
One of the most important things you will bring is a good sleeping bag and a thermarest. These make a big difference, and it is advisable to purchase the items before you leave home. Do some research as everything depends on the places you are visiting.
You’ve probably heard it before but pack your bag and then halve it and that is probably sufficient. This can be very difficult particularly when you are travelling to a variety of climates, just try your best: it is better to put more layers on rather to carry heavy and space consuming jumpers.
Many trips are not 100% camping and you do end up staying in hotels or major cities. Therefore you should have clothing appropriate for towns or cities, jeans tend to be a universal fashion. This will mean you wont stand out as a tourist which should help prevent unwanted attention.
Useful Items
Mobile phones are useful not only for the obvious of making calls but as an alarm clock, light, calendar and contacts list. Of course you can use them for making emergency calls or receiving texts, but be carefull otherwise your phone bill will be astronomical. The phone you can use is limited to its type and network coverage. However, local sims cards can bring down costs and it is very surprising where you can get coverage.
An LED head torch lasts much longer than conventional bulb torches. They are extremely useful around a camp site but there is no need to go overboard as some cost close to 100 USD or around 40 GBP. Shop around and try fishing tackle shops as camping gear shops such as North Face are expensive. Remember AA batteries are still by far the most common battery you can purchase world wide !
Normal towel or travel towel ? unfortunately it is the travel towel, they dry quickly, stay fresh for longer and keep your luggage compact. But they tend to move water rather than soak it up like conventional towels so by the end of your trip you’ll be happy to throw it away.
Your luggage has to be soft shell. Not necessarily a rucksack, but take something which you can move easily and comfortably. Although the truck carries your luggage it is you who needs to move it back and forth from the truck to your tent or hotel room. (varies on company trucks)
A watertight bag generally tends to a useful, large enough to carry clothes or items for maybe an overnight trip.
Swiss army knife can be useful.
Lip balm especially in cold or high altitude climates or areas.
Depending on the length of trip and the type you should consider acquiring a Youth hostel card / Hosteling Internation card. This is particular useful before and after your trip. It is amazing the money you can save. If you are travelling South America then have a look at getting a SAE membership (South American explorer). They have some great discounts in most of the major cities.
Travel Books
This is one of the most important things you will carry around. Even though you may be on an organised tour, it is unlikely you will be given sufficient local information and this is where your book is vital. Before and after your tour starts and ends you?ll likely want to stay in that country to explore on your own.
Of course what you choose will depend on the length of time you travel.
The trucks usually have a library available however you shouldn?t expect the latest version of travel book to be there. And people find it useful to bring a reading book with them to exchange on route for those long sometimes endless drives. Of course your mp3 player is also a good way of carrying an endless supply, so it is worth taking.
Money Matters
Overland companies usually ask for a “kitty” in addition to the initial payment. It varies form company to company but mainly it is used for local expenses and has to be handed over in cash to the trip leader at the start of the trip. Most companies would like the cash payment in US Dollars - this means either carrying the money from your home country or withdrawing it in your first port of call.
If you are travelling to Africa you should read this post regarding USD in Africa.
Even though travellers checks have been the traditional means of carrying money and are generally recommended when travelling as being the safest option, be prepared to pay a heavy commission when cashing in and in many cases, very long queues.
Carrying debit and/or credit cards is becoming the easier option and you will be surprised where you will find ATMs. This does vary on where you are; for example in South America ATMs are very convenient and in some countries will dispense both local currency and US dollars, whilst Africa may be problematic.
Credit cards are useful when paying for extra “excursions” not included in the tour package and it is advisable carrying one, especially for emergencies. If you are a UK citizen then consider a Nationwide credit card - commission free when used abroad. Others may consider a pre paid cards from Visa.
When you change money just as you enter a country at the land border be very careful: know exactly how much money you have on you, negotiate the rate before you show any money, calculate the money you are due yourself - carry a calculator - and count the money again in front of the person you exchanged from. Sometimes, you can get a better rate if you have a larger amount to exchange. Check with your co-travellers and maybe put an equal amount in to get those extra few cents!
I would highly recommend setting up a skype account if you are travelling for a long period of time it is a very cheap way of making calls and internet cafes are generally easy to find.
Sleeping
A good sleeping bag: this varies greatly on where you are travelling to and what time of year. You have the option of either a synthetic or nature filled bag. The naturally filled bags tend to be warmer, thicker and therefore more bulky. Synthetic are easier to dry and are more compact but possibly less comfortable.
A silk liner is very useful no matter where you are travelling. Hot or cold, it is a very useful item.
If travelling at high altitude then it is going to get cold all year round - be prepared with at least thermo hat and gloves.
A good therma-rest makes a big difference when you qre out camping, so invest wisely.
It is possible to take your own tent if you dont want to share with others: just make sure it is small and appropriate for the locations you will be staying.
Blogs and Websites
Many people when travelling for a long time find creating a blog or website a great way of staying in touch with everyone and it eliminates the need for mass email lists. It also provides a great way of keeping a diary.
Ok, it can be a little bit more involved but with the number of companies offering sites for free it is probably worth setting one up. There are a few things you need to check when using a free service,
If you are looking to upload photos make sure that the image is resized before it is uploaded, try it at home before you leave and check that it doesn’t upload MB in file size, because when you are on the road upload speeds are very very slow - no matter where you are.
Check that you maintain copyright to your photos and your copy, important if you are a budding photographer or writer.
Remember you are unlikely to have your own URL using a free service so that can be a drawback.
The alternative to using a free service is to set one up yourself. If you are comfortable dabbling in web programming then it does pay to purchase your own URL and run your own website. Again it is not as complicated as it sounds. A US site provider will do most of the hard work and provide you with the necessary services for about 90USD a year.
Here are a few examples.
Freeblog
Typepad a more upmarket site.
Travellerpoint a well known site.
Travelpod
Photos
Even if you are not a keen photographer when on your travels you are bound to want to take the odd snap or two.
Nowadays a digital camera is ideal, nearly all Internet cafes will be able to burn you a copy of your photos onto a CD. However I would invest in 1GB cards nothing bigger at the moment and use up the 700MB to copy onto CD. Although with 8GB SD memory cards available now you will have to make a judgement based on the time you are travelling. Another alternative is to carry a mini hard drive, but you are putting all your eggs into one basket. Burning onto DVD will take more time and is not available everywhere.
Carry a USB link for your camera as you are more likely to find a USB port rather than the multitude of cards formats. Generally speaking USB2.0 is widely available so speed is not really an issue between your camera and the PC.
If you want to take snaps outdoors in all weather consider the Pentax Optio WP. I managed to take shots in extreme weather conditions, white water rafting, and it survived a torrent of water in Foz do Iguazu. Great all round camera, but don’t expect to take great shots of wildlife if it is at a distance. For this you will need a camera with a higher zoom than 3X optical.
No matter what camera you use, make sure you have a spare battery whether it be a rechargeable or traditional battery. However, consider the environmental impact of a traditional battery especially if you are travelling to areas which do not a well developed recycling industry.
Remember when your uploading onto websites you have to be able to resize your photo on the desktop before uploading. Upload links are generally 128KB and this is shared between everyone using the link. So trying to upload your 2MB photo is going to take a long time or will fail midway.
If you are using a blog service or another website content provider make sure you have have full copyrights to your photos. When you return home creating a photo album using a service like Bob’s books is great.
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