When discussing overlanding, most people think of SUVs, but many people might wonder if trucks are good for overlanding. Trucks are usually associated with delivery, farm work and long-haul or cross-country payload delivery journeys. So, are trucks good for overlanding?
Trucks are good for overlanding because they are ideal candidates for big off-road tires, lift kits and auxiliary fuel tanks that are great for long trips. However, the most significant advantage of a truck Overlander is the generous payload capacity and 4×4 capabilities.
This article outlines five trucks that make great outdoor adventure vehicles. I’ll go over each option in detail and explain why it would make an excellent choice for overlanding. Think of it as the ultimate guide to choosing the perfect truck for your next big trip.
Top 5 trucks good for overlanding:
1. Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size truck that’s been on the market since 2000. It’s one of the most reliable trucks available and can be had with a variety of different engines, including a V6.
You can see some great products offered for overlanding with a Tundra from companies like offroadalliance.com.
This truck has a towing capacity of up to 12 000 pounds, which is more than enough for most Overlanding rigs. That means you can bring all sorts of gear on your trip, including a full-size trailer if necessary.
The fuel consumption on the Tundra sits at 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG highway. But these pretty numbers decrease by about 1 MPG in the city and 1 MPG on the highway when in all-wheel drive. But that’s nothing compared to some of the gas guzzlers on this list.
The interior of the Tundra is comfortable and spacious, which is a welcome upgrade from the last generation of this truck. The infotainment system is also easy to use, and the overall build quality is exceptional. I particularly like what they did with the center console, dash, and doors.
2. Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is an excellent option for overlanding because it’s comfortable and efficient. It has a reliable engine that can handle off-road terrain, and it’s equipped with features that make camping and traveling more accessible, like a bed that slides out to create more space. The Ridgeline is also relatively affordable, making it a good choice for those on a budget.
This truck comes with all-wheel drive so that it can handle a variety of terrains. It also has an impressive towing capacity, which is essential for those who want to bring a lot of gear on their trip.
However, the ground clearance on this bad boy is not suitable for serious 4X4ing. But that’s not really what the Honda Ridgeline is built for – it’s more of a daily driver that can handle a bit of light off-road action.
3. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is an excellent choice for Overlanding because it is rugged, reliable, and has many features that make it perfect for the job. It has a powerful 3.3L to 5L engine, 4-wheel drive, and plenty of cargo space. It’s also comfortable and stylish, making it ideal for long road trips.
The sheer size of this truck can be intimidating, but that’s what makes it so great for Overlanding. You can fit almost anything in the back, and you know it can handle everything that comes your way. People have included decent size kitchens with storage in their F-150s, so you know it’s versatile.
The downside to the Ford F-150 is that it’s not the most fuel-efficient option out there. But if you’re looking for a powerful truck with all the bells and whistles, this could be it.
4. Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma is one of the most popular trucks on the market, and for a good reason. Its smaller size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is important when you’re trying to navigate through overgrown trails or dense forests.
Tacoma’s off-road capabilities are impressive, making it perfect for exploring remote areas that other trucks would have trouble accessing. And it is also affordable, reliable, and has a long history of durability. So if you’re looking for a great all-around truck that’s perfect for overlanding, the Tacoma is a great choice.
On the other hand, Tacoma’s small size can be a bit of a downside if you need to carry large items or travel with many people, and its fuel economy isn’t the best in its class.
5. Rivan R1T
The Rivan R1T is a new truck that is quickly gaining a reputation for its impressive off-road capabilities. It features a rugged design that’s built to withstand the harshest conditions, and its advanced 4-wheel drive system ensures that you’ll never get stuck on a challenging trail.
The Rivan R1T is a fully electric truck, so it’s environmentally friendly because it doesn’t produce any emissions. And it has a large battery that gives you a driving range of up to 300 miles (482 km), making it perfect for long road trips.
The only downside is that the Rivan R1T is still a relatively new truck, so its long-term reliability is unknown. But so far, it looks like it could be an excellent choice for anyone looking for an electric overlanding truck.
Which Overlanding Truck Should You Choose?
You should choose the Tundra because of its ability to tackle challenging terrain. The Rivan R1T is also a great pick if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option. And if you want a full-size truck with all the bells and whistles, the F-150 is hard to beat.
The idea is to find an option that is versatile enough for your needs. For example, if you need to bring a lot of gear or plan on traveling with a group, the Ford F-150 would be a good option. You can fit it with everything you’ll need, including a storage system, composting toilet, and a small kitchen.
Remember, the best way to find the right truck for you is to test drive them all and see which one feels the best. You will also need to consider your specific needs when choosing the right one.
Are you looking for a truck to commute in when not overlanding, or are you looking for an outdoor exploration vehicle? If you are interested in a daily driver, an SUV would be better. But a truck is perfect for someone who spends most of their time on the road.
https://youtu.be/HlQMDJLvqlk
Final Thoughts
Picking the right vehicle is your first big decision when it comes to overlanding. One of the factors many people overlook is what type of terrain they are likely to encounter and how much cargo capacity they will need on average.
Many off-roaders choose SUVs because they match these needs well, but trucks are also a good choice if you want a better payload but not as much clearance.
That leaves us with some great vehicle options that offer features such as diesel engine standard or optional, locking rear differential included as a standard feature, 4×4 low range option using power take-off (PTO), and electronic crawl control.
I believe trucks are better options for overlanding because they are better suited for the terrain. The Toyota Tundra, Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, Honda Ridgeline, and Rivan R1T are our top 5 best options for overlanding. They all have unique features that make them ideal for the job.
Also, trucks are usually more affordable than SUVs and have more space to store gear. So if you’re looking for a great option to explore the great outdoors, we recommend checking out these trucks.
Up Next In Overlanding:
Best Overland Trailers (10 Off-Road Favorites)
Toyota Tundra For Overlanding? (Pros/Cons and Owner QnA)
Find 4×4 Camper Vans for Sale Online (Top 10 Resources)
How Much Does A Quigley 4×4 Conversion Cost?
(featured image: offroadalliance.com)

David is an accomplished mountain endurance athlete who has completed over 25 ultra marathon races (follow on Strava). He is most proud of his finish at The Drift 100 – a high elevation, 100 mile winter foot race that zigzags along the Continental Divide in Wyoming. In the future he hopes to compete in the ITI 350 and ultimately the full 1,000 mile Iditarod Trail Invitational that follows the same path as the historic dog sled race.