How To Set Up Your Rig For Overlanding In Utah.
So you bought the vehicle, scrolled through Instagram builds at 2am, and now you’re staring at it wondering how to make it a rig. Don’t worry — every overlander has been there. Setting up your rig isn’t about bolting on the most expensive gear; it’s about making your truck reliable, self-sufficient, and ready for the type of terrain Utah throws at you.
Step 1: Start with the Basics (Reliability > Bling)
Maintenance first: fluids, belts, hoses, tires, brakes. A shiny rooftop tent won’t save you if your water pump dies in the desert.
Tires: All-terrains at minimum; mud-terrains if you’re chasing sand and snow.
Recovery points: Front and rear tow points are non-negotiable.
Step 2: Suspension & Clearance
Utah trails range from slickrock to deep sand.
Mild build: A leveling kit or Bilstein 5100s for extra clearance.
Serious build: 2–3” suspension lift, upgraded shocks.
Remember: big lifts = more stress on drivetrain. Don’t lift it like you’re trying to impress SEMA unless you can maintain it. You’ll also risk flipping if you go too tall.
Step 3: Recovery Gear
You will get stuck. Plan for it.
Essentials: traction boards, shovel, tow strap, hi-lift jack.
Winch: Not mandatory on day one, but a game-changer when you’re solo.
Keep it accessible — gear buried under coolers and camp chairs is useless.
Step 4: Power & Storage
Battery: Dual battery or deep cycle setup for fridges and lights.
Storage: Drawer systems or bins — keep tools, recovery gear, and camp gear organized.
Water & fuel: At least 5 gallons of each. Utah’s backcountry doesn’t play nice with empty tanks.
Step 5: Camp Setup
Shelter: Rooftop tent, ground tent, or even a bed platform — go with what fits your budget.
Cooking: A simple two-burner stove beats trying to cook bacon over a campfire at 6am.
Comfort: Good chair, lighting, and a warm sleeping bag matter more than a $3,000 roof tent.
Step 6: Communications & Navigation
Navigation: Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or paper maps as backup. ALWAYS have a backup.
Comms: CB radio is across the board the best, no questions here, this is what UOC uses across all rigs. GMRS radio can also do (bring one of these anyways for emergencies - more people have these than CB).
InReach if you’re out of cell range can be useful too.
Pro tip: Download offline maps before you head out — Utah’s dead zones are massive - this is where OnX Offroad is king.
Step 7: Join the Utah Overland Community
Your rig setup is just the beginning — the real value comes from learning with others. Join the Utah Overland Community (UOC) and get access to our private server where members share trail conditions, gear tips, and trip plans in real time. Connect with fellow Utah overlanders, swap advice, and roll out on your next adventure with the crew.
