The CAMO Convoy Overland Podcast
The hub for all things overland, offroad, and outdoors in the Appalachian Mountain region. Central Appalachian Mountain Overland's official podcast.
Your Overland Truck Needs Onboard Air! | Compressors, Airbags, Tanks & More
TITLE
Onboard Air for Overlanding: Compressors, Airbags, Tanks & More | CAMO Convoy Podcast
DESCRIPTION / SHOW NOTES
Onboard air can be as simple as airing your tires back up after the trail, or it can become an entire pneumatic utility system built into your rig.
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron dig deep into onboard air for overlanding and off road vehicles. We break down how to properly size a compressor, what PSI and CFM actually tell you, why duty cycle matters, whether you...
Off Road Travel & Adventure | Overlanding With Kids & Family Camping
Off road travel and adventure gets even better when the whole family comes along. In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we’re talking overlanding with kids, family camping, 4x4 travel, outdoor adventure, and how to make off road trips something your kids actually WANT to be part of.
We’re joined by Nick from Explore, Discover, and Adventure Together to talk about raising kids around camping, wrenching, exploring, and the outdoors. From building an M101A1 military trailer into an overland camper with his son to taking family adventures across the East...
Lost Appalachia: The Most Remote Places Left in the East
Episode 50.
Everybody talks about heading West when they want to disappear, but Appalachia still has plenty of places where the pavement ends, cell service disappears, and you can get surprisingly far away from civilization.
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron dig into some of the best hidden, forgotten, and downright wild places left to explore in the East.
We’re talking remote forest roads, legitimate four wheel drive terrain, dispersed camping, elk country, abandoned railroad tunnels, tiny mountain towns, deep West Virginia backcountry, and places most people drive ri...
Overland Gear is All Hype
Rooftop tents. RotopaX. Awnings. Traction boards. Giant tires. How much of the overland industry is selling you expensive gear you absolutely do not need?
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron put popular overland gear, vehicle modifications and entire platforms on trial. Some equipment earns a permanent place in the truck. Some only makes sense in very specific situations. And some of it is expensive Instagram decoration that makes your vehicle worse at actually traveling.
We debate:
Rooftop tents and awnings
RotopaX and fuel storage
Traction boards<...
Overland Subarus, Vans & More | Unconventional Overlanders
You do not need a Tacoma, Wrangler, or Land Cruiser to start overlanding.
In this episode, we dig into unconventional overland vehicles, including Subarus, crossovers, minivans, old Kias, Astro vans, forgotten SUVs, and other cheap oddballs people are using to get outside.
We break down which vehicles actually have useful potential, which limitations can be managed, and which cheap platforms are cheap because they genuinely suck. We also talk about AWD systems, CVTs, payload, ground clearance, tire size, rust, aftermarket support, sleeping inside the vehicle, and why the right vehicle depends entirely on the trip...
MSJ Off-Road Truck Campers: Did They Just Change My Mind?
I'm not really a camper guy..... But This One Might Change My Mind | MSJ Off-Road
Nick has never been much of a truck camper guy. Aaron, meanwhile, has spent the last two years dragging an MSJ camper through tight Appalachian trails, bouncing it across the country, leaning it into trees, jumping the truck and spraying the whole thing with oil....well...Nick's oil.
So for this episode, we brought in Shayan and Simon from MSJ Off-Road to find out what these campers are actually made for and whether Nick’s overladenophobia justified.
We ge...
Where to Overland? - Building the Best Overland Trip
Where do you actually go overlanding?
Quick note before we get into it: Aaron’s crickets were absolutely losing their minds during this episode, so we had to do some extra audio cleanup in post. If the audio feels slightly off in a few spots, that’s why. We figured it was better than making you listen to a full-blown Appalachian insect orchestra for two hours.
Everybody wants the secret spots, the perfect GPX file, the best campsite, the scenic overlook at lunch, and the secluded camp by 4 PM. But the real answer is not just...
Overland Maintenance: Fix It at Home, Not on the Trail
Overland maintenance is not the fun part of the trip, but it is the part that keeps your rig from becoming everyone else’s problem on the trail.
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we break down the maintenance mindset every overlander should have before, during, and after a trip. We talk pre-trip checks, fluids, cooling systems, brakes, steering components, known failure points, trail fixes, post-trip cleaning, and the long-term stuff that keeps an old 4x4 alive.
The big idea is simple: fix problems at home, not in the woods.
We ge...
We’re Mad: The Dumbest Things in Overlanding
We’re mad, and we’re finally saying it.
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Nick and Aaron rant through the dumbest things happening in overlanding and off-roading right now. Bad recoveries, sketchy trail behavior, garbage aftermarket lights, half-done builds, alignment shop nightmares, oversized tire obsession, campsite bathroom disasters, and the people who absolutely refuse to take care of their rigs.
Some of it is funny. Some of it is annoying. Some of it is flat-out dangerous.
If you wheel, camp, wrench, overland, or spend way too much time staring at your...
Subaru Forester Off Road Build: Locked, Lifted, and Jeep-Embarrassing
This locked and lifted Subaru Forester off road build has no business working this well.
Brandt joins the CAMO Convoy Podcast to break down his 2008 SG Subaru Forester build, including the rear locker, center diff locker, long travel suspension, HDPE skid plate setup, lightweight wheel and tire combo, spare parts strategy, and how he keeps this thing alive on real off road trails.
We get into Subaru off road culture, the difference between dirt road Subarus and truly built trail Subarus, why the 4EAT automatic actually helps without low range, how he uses left foot...
You Don’t Need Expensive Gear to Go Overlanding : $200 Overland Trip Challenge
Think overlanding has to cost thousands of dollars before you can even leave the driveway? Not even close.
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we put together a real 3-day overland camping setup with a strict $200 Walmart budget. Tent, sleep setup, cooking gear, cooler, water, food, wipes, lights, fire starting, and the basic stuff you actually need to get out for a weekend in Appalachia.
We also compare some of these budget items against similar gear from REI, Bass Pro, and other big-name outdoor stores to see where the money actually...
20 Dying Skills of The Overland Man
What does it actually mean to be “The Overland Man”?
In this episode, we break down 20 old school skills that are slowly dying out, but still matter if you spend time off road, in the woods, around trucks, or just trying to be a capable human being. We’re talking backing up without a camera, reading maps, handling first aid, staying calm when things go bad, knowing when to shut up, carrying heavy stuff, walking long distances, building fires, reading water, solving problems, and being comfortable when life gets uncomfortable.
This one is part overland talk...
The Perfect Overland Trip: Michigan's Upper Peninsula
We’re back from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and this trip had everything.
In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down the full Michigan overland trip from the drive up, the first camp at Little Brevort Lake, deep sand roads, traction board redemption, sketchy water crossings, tight trails, killer campsites, CV axle carnage, High Rock Bay, Lake Superior camping, weird rocks, Malort, bugs, bass fishing, and the long ride home.
This was one of those trips that reminded us why we do this. Good people, good rigs, ro...
Water and Survival on the Trail
Water and Survival on the Trail
Water is one of the most overlooked parts of overlanding, camping, and backcountry travel. Everyone remembers tires, winches, lights, recovery gear, and camp setups, but a bad water plan can ruin your trip fast.
In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we talk through drinking water, storage, filtration, cooking, cleaning, hygiene, rain, wet gear, kids, pets, and water crossings. From how much water to bring, to why one container is a bad plan, to what happens when a creek crossing gets deeper than expected, this one...
The Toyota Tacoma is the KING of Midsize Trucks...And its NOT EVEN CLOSE
Last week things got heated when we claimed the 2nd gen Frontier beats the 2nd gen Tacoma. This week Aaron is back and he is not letting that slide.
We break down
Real world reliability not fanboy myths
Power differences and what you actually feel
The truth about Toyota longevity vs Nissan durability
Titan swaps vs Tacoma long travel setups
Diff strength drivetrain design and what actually matters
Manual vs automatic transmissions and why autos kill power
Aftermarket support and why it matters more than you think
What you...
The Nissan Frontier is Better than The Toyota Tacoma - ITS NOT EVEN CLOSE
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Is the Toyota Tacoma actually overrated… and has the Nissan Frontier been the better truck this whole time?
In this solo episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, I break down one of the most controversial takes in the overland world: why the D40 Nissan Frontier (2005–2019) might be the smarter, more capable, and way better value than the second gen Tacoma.
We’re talking:
Real-world power and dr...
We ran the hardest trail in the East!....WAS IT?
Welcome back to the Camo Convoy Podcast — where we talk all things overland, off-road, and the great outdoors.
This week, we ran Potts Mountain Jeep Trail — the one everyone calls “The Hardest Trail in the East.”
So… is it actually true?
We loaded up a group of mild builds (Frontiers, Mountaineer, 35s, mostly stock geometry) and hit the trail with zero prior experience — just reputation and expectations.
What we found might surprise you.
In this episode:
Full breakdown of Potts Mountain fro...Long Trips, Dead Radios… Here’s the Fix
Long Trips, Dead Radios… Here’s the Fix
There’s a point on every long trip where it happens…
The radio goes quiet.
Everyone’s tired.
Miles left to go.
That’s where trips either fall apart—or get way better.
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with the creators of Radio Chatter, a simple idea that completely changes the way groups interact on the trail.
No tech talk.
No forced conversation.
Just real questions that actually get people talking.
Overland Clubs Ruin Overlanding?
DESCRIPTION
Are overland clubs building the community… or slowly killing the spirit of overlanding?
Before “overlanding” had a name, people didn’t ask permission. They didn’t follow leaders. They didn’t pay to explore public land. They just went.
Now?
Clubs. Paid trips. Structured routes. “Leaders.” Rules.
So what changed?
In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down:
What overlanding is actually supposed to beWhat makes a good club vs a bad oneWhy some clubs create dependency instead of skillEgo, hierarchy, and “follow the leader” cultur...Best Overland Vehicles by Price… You’re Probably Wrong
We put overland vehicles to the test across real world price points — $5K, $10K, $20K, and brand new — and the results were not what we expected.
Instead of arguing opinions, we built our own scoring system: the CAMO Vehicle Capability Index (VCI). This breaks down articulation, traction, reliability, stability, load capacity, and more to actually measure how capable each vehicle is on the trail.
Some vehicles you think are unbeatable… aren’t.
And some you’d never consider… absolutely hold their own.
If you think you know the best overland rigs by pric...
The Missing Jeepers who Weren't Missing
Something wild happened in our region last week.
Two off roaders were reported missing near Dayton Virginia while wheeling in the George Washington National Forest around Peters Mill Run and Flagpole Knob.
A Facebook post quickly spread through the off road community and things escalated fast. Dozens of overlanders began mobilizing, the sheriff was contacted, search and rescue was activated, and even a private aircraft launched to help search the area.
There was just one problem.
The two Jeepers were not actually missing.
They had simply decided to camp...
Vehicle EDC For Preppers and Overlanders
Episode Description
What do you actually keep in your truck?
In this episode we break down Vehicle EDC for the Overland Prepper. This is the gear that lives in the truck full time the stuff that handles breakdowns, trail repairs, recovery situations, and the unexpected problems you run into long before you ever reach a trailhead.
Most overland conversations focus on camping setups and rooftop tents. But the reality is most problems happen on the road or miles from help, and that is where vehicle EDC matters.<...
The Rally That’s Changing Appalachia | 24 Hours of Appalachia
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Jed Smith, founder of Backroads of Appalachia, to talk about the rise of one of the most unique grassroots motorsport events in the country: 24 Hours of Appalachia.
What started as a small regional rally has grown into a legitimate endurance competition attracting serious drivers, national attention, and real economic impact for Appalachian communities.
We break down:
• How 24 Hours of Appalachia was built from the ground up
• The vision behind Backroads of Appalachia
• What makes this rally different from everything else
•...
Your Overland Lights are Wrong
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If you think more lumens means better lighting… this episode might hurt a little.
In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down why most overlanders are setting up their off road lights wrong.
We cover:
• Light zones and how to properly layer your lighting
• Beam patterns and why combo beams can lead to a mistake
• LED vs halogen performance and eye fatigue
• Why roof lights can are a bad idea if you pick the w...
The Rooftop Tent Killer? Camp Tonneau Tent
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THE CAMP TONNEAU TENT
Rooftop tents have dominated the overland world for years.
But are they still the best option?
Today we compare a traditional RTT mounted on a bed rack versus the new Camp Tonneau truck bed tent system. Weight. Cost. Setup time. Center of gravity. Real world practicality.
No brand bias. No fluff.
Just the pros and cons of both setups so you can decide for yourself.
So… which one would you run?
...
DON'T BBQ YOUR RIG! Offroad and Overland Wiring (EP21)
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Ever wonder why rigs catch fire after a “simple” wiring job?
This episode kicks off Don’t BBQ Your Rig, a no BS breakdown of 12V electrical basics for trucks and overland rigs. No diagrams you can’t read, no electrical engineering degree required, and no pretending bad wiring is “good enough.”
We break down electrical loads in plain language and explain why wires melt, fuses pop, and accessories stop working when people start stacking lights, radios, comp...
THE BEST Differential for Overland: LOCKERS, Vs OPEN, Vs. LSD
What's the best differential for overlanding? In this episode Aaron and Nick discuss that and take a deep dive into how both work, their ups, and their downs. The Podcast also starts a new series, the DOOM SCROLL where we show off the best, worst, and WTF of FB marketplace.
The Kia That Shouldn’t Exist | MBM Fab’s Wildest Builds
In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Max Foltz of MBM Fab to talk fabrication, questionable project vehicles, and why a 2000 Kia Sportage rally build might be one of the most unhinged but well thought out rigs we’ve ever featured.
We cover:
How MBM Fab started and why Max builds everything himselfThe origin story of the Kia Sportage “Desert Rat” Gambler buildFabrication philosophy: sliders, bumpers, TIG welding, roll cages, and why OEM cross-compatibility mattersMax’s GMC Sierra 2500 HD flatbed camper build and A...Rain, Snow, & Chaos - Appalachian Overland Madness CAMO MOTHMAN
In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, hosts Nick and Aaron dive into their recent winter camping trip to the Appalachian Mountains, specifically the Mothman trip. They recount the unpredictable weather, which ranged from rain to snow, and the challenges they faced while camping at high elevations. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation for varying conditions, as well as the camaraderie among the group despite the adverse weather. Nick shares amusing anecdotes about their camping experiences, including mishaps with gear and the amusing dynamics of their group, which included a mix of seasoned campers and newcomers.The hosts...
Be Your Own Rescue | Medical Mindset for Overland
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Most overlanders are prepared for vehicle failure, not medical emergencies.
In this episode, we break down why being your own rescue is a non negotiable mindset when traveling remotely.
Most people spend more time obsessing over roof racks, traction boards, and gear than they do thinking about what happens when someone actually gets hurt in the middle of...
Overlanding With an EV? The Rivian Reality Check
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In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Sapan, president of the Mid Atlantic Rivian Club and former Land Rover mechanical engineer, to talk about overlanding with an electric vehicle.
We dig into what actually works, what does not, and how the Rivian platform changes the overland experience. From adjustable suspension and camp mode to real world trail use, charging concerns, and community building, this is not a press release episode. It is a reality check.
We...
BUILDING The BEST Overland Vehicle
Summary
In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various aspects of work-life balance, personal projects, and the essentials of building the best overland vehicle. They share insights on navigating work challenges, the importance of understanding vehicle capabilities, and the significance of quality modifications. The discussion also touches on recent automotive news, including Toyota's innovations, and the ongoing debate between manual and automatic transmissions in the context of overlanding. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss various aspects of overlanding, focusing on vehicle modifications, the importance of throttle response, and the evolution of vehicle design. They emphasize...
Exposing the Two Dumbsmartest Podcast Hosts: WHO ARE WE?
In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various work challenges, including scheduling issues and job frustrations. They share personal stories and experiences related to their work and vehicle modifications. The discussion also touches on the history of Camo Central Appalachian Mountain Overland, notable encounters, and the importance of documenting their journey. The conversation highlights the connection between personal experiences and the broader community, emphasizing the excitement and uncertainty of future plans. In this engaging conversation, Nick and Aaron share their experiences and adventures in off-roading, discussing the sense of freedom it brings, the community it fosters, and...
The Best Overland Group You've Never Heard of: Central Appalachian Mountain Overland
In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various work challenges, including scheduling issues and job frustrations. They share personal stories and experiences related to their work and vehicle modifications. The discussion also touches on the history of Camo Central Appalachian Mountain Overland, notable encounters, and the importance of documenting their journey. The conversation highlights the connection between personal experiences and the broader community, emphasizing the excitement and uncertainty of future plans. In this engaging conversation, Nick and Aaron share their experiences and adventures in off-roading, discussing the sense of freedom it brings, the community it fosters, and the challenges...
Off-Road Mods That Matter: Suspension, Armor, Budgets, and the Future of AllDogs Offroad
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In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, hosts Nick and Aaron welcome Chad Kulig, General Manager of All Dogs Off Road, to discuss the unique co-op business model of their company, the intricacies of off-roading and overlanding, and the importance of community in the automotive enthusiast space. They delve into Aaron's Tacoma build journey, the innovations in suspension technology, and the trends in overlanding modifications. The conversation also touches on the challenges of the off-road community, the significance of budgeting for...
Top Overland Gifts Under 200 Dollars You’ll Actually Use - Christmas and Black Friday Special
Looking for the best Overland gifts under 200 dollars that aren’t junk? In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Aaron and Nick break down the gear we actually use, trust, and would buy again. If you're shopping for Christmas or Black Friday — or you are the overlander on the “nice list” — this episode saves you the research.
We bounce back and forth with rapid-fire picks, why each item matters on trail, and the small upgrades that make a huge difference. Shorter episode this week to boost retention and reach even more of the CAMO c...
Winter Camping, Overland, and Diesel Heaters
In this episode, Aaron and Nick discuss how to safely navigate Appalachian Winters
Picking the Right Tires of Overland and Offroad
In this episode, the boys discuss tire choice and the do's, don'ts and things to watch out for when picking a tire for your truck or SUV.
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24 Hours of Appalachia Haunted Hollers Overland Rally
In this Episode, The CAMO boys walk back the 24 Hours of Appalachia Finals in Kentucky. Nick and Aaron do some Q&A, and Aaron gives a tech tip:
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The CAMO Convoy Overland Podcast: Kentucky Overland Wrap-up
In this episode of the Camo Convoy podcast, hosts Aaron and Nick, along with guest Matt, discuss their recent trip to Kentucky. They share their experiences, expectations, and the challenges they faced while off-roading. The conversation delves into vehicle performance, mechanical issues, and the importance of proper preparation for such adventures. They also touch on modifications, tire choices, and the overall enjoyment of the trip, emphasizing the camaraderie and safety felt throughout the journey. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of off-roading, including tire pressure management, camping experiences, scenic views, and the challenges faced during their...