Tiegear Review: For those who have suffered the pain of tents, awnings and tie down enclosures losing the battle with wind and rain – Meet Tiegear.

Tiegear set out to create an end-all/be-all tie down solution for a wide range of outdoor gear and equipment, and they absolutely hit the peg on the head. And given the product lineup was designed in Australia, the Tiegear crew knows a thing or two about extreme conditions.

Having had the chance to review Tiegear’s products firsthand, the quality is impressive. The Steadfast Collection brings together a range of accessories that combine to enhance setup efficiency and site stability.

All of the components in the Steadfast Collection lineup are made with zero frills and all function; each piece feels extremely purpose-built, a rarity in today’s market. The heavy-duty materials make setup and teardown straightforward, with all parts designed to work in harmony. It’s a product line that’s simply refreshing: heavy duty and built to withstand serious wear and tear.

There was substantial thought and design put into each element of the Steadfast Collection and each warrants discussion. Here’s our rundown on each piece of the Tiegear collection.

Each Steadfast Guy Rope is engineered for secure tension and quick setup. Tiegear’s cast alloy tensioner allows users to adjust and secure the 13-foot UV-stable nylon rope at any length, accommodating variable needs in shifting outdoor conditions. A standout in these ropes is their anti-tangle design, which saves time in tricky setups.

And when it’s time to pack, the built-in storage bag keeps them organized—no more rummaging around for tangled guy lines.

Tiegear’s heavy-duty soft springs provide essential flex, absorbing the shock of strong winds that could otherwise loosen or dislodge pegs. Or even worse, cause your awning or shelter to snap back against their fascining hardware and snap.

Designed specifically for wrapping around the drum of vehicle awnings, these springs offer secure points of connection while protecting surfaces from scratches—a real plus if you’re using delicate or polished materials in your setup.

The Hard Terra Pegs, made from forged 304 stainless steel, are equipped with a masonry-style tip for easy drilling into tough terrain. Each peg features a rotating double-hooked head, making it possible to secure multiple tie-downs at different angles, ideal for stabilizing complex setups in unpredictable terrain.

Crafted from UV-stabilized, reinforced nylon, the Soft Terra Pegs offer flexibility without sacrificing toughness. Like the Hard Terra, these pegs also have a double-hooked head, simplifying multi-directional tie-downs. Their 19mm head makes them compatible with standard caravan and camper stabilizing bolts, so they integrate seamlessly with other setup needs.

A small but critical addition, the Terra Driver features a 19mm socket that fits both Hard and Soft Terra pegs. Its drill-compatible design not only speeds up the anchoring process but doubles as a tool for stabilizing camper legs—a great way to reduce the tools you need to carry.

Constructed from a 12oz canvas exterior with an 18oz PVC lining, the STEADFAST Explorer Bag is designed for durability and ease of transport. It includes a breathable mesh lid, so gear can be stored even when wet without fear of mold or odor buildup.

With its removable PVC divider, the bag’s interior is easy to organize according to each adventure, keeping setup and teardown organized and hassle-free.

Each element of the Tiegear system can be purchased individually or you can select one of Tiegear’s purpose built bundles. The Overlander Bundle ($489.95) covers all bases with six guy ropes, soft springs, Hard and Soft Terra pegs, and a sturdy Explorer bag, each designed to optimize performance, packability, and ease of use.

At first glance, the $489.95 price tag might seem high, but considering the quality of each piece, it ultimately makes sense when considering the entire kit. With materials like stainless steel, reinforced nylon, and heavy-duty canvas, this bundle is built to withstand years of use, addressing needs beyond standard equipment.

And again, if you’re starting small or simply want to customize to your setup, Tiegear allows each item to be purchased individually, letting you build out your perfect kit without over-committing.

The Steadfast Collection can take on any final boss. Yes, the Tiegear product line is expensive. Pricing is a hangup when discussing internally with our team, but for those who have the room in their budget to add this to their kit, we highly recommend.

This isn’t just another fabricated solution to a non-existent problem—it’s designed to handle extreme weather, making it a solid choice for seasoned overlanders.

All photos via the Tiegear website. This review was conducted independently, and no payment or compensation was accepted. All opinions expressed are based solely on the product’s features and performance.

First Impressions: Sleek, Sturdy, and Low-Profile

Roof Racks: Well-Built But Not for Every Budget

iBed Racks: High Load Capacity and Easy Mounting, But Heavy

Toyota Tacoma Bed Rack ($1,300 | Mid Height, $1,400 | Full Height)
Moving to bed racks, the Tacoma options (2005-2023) come in two sizes: mid-height and full-height. Both versions offer strong load capacities (440 lbs dynamic, 1,213 lbs static) but weigh in on the heavy side—115 lbs for mid-height and 130 lbs for full-height. This is a consideration if you’re already loading up on other gear. No-drill mounting keeps the installation straightforward, which is always appreciated.

Jeep Gladiator Bed Rack ($1,400 | Mid Height, $1,500 | Full Height)
For Jeep Gladiator owners, the bed racks offer similar specs with a slightly lighter build (109 lbs mid-height, 132 lbs full height). Load capacities are identical to the Tacoma racks, but with a slightly heftier price tag. If you’re looking for a rack that doesn’t require permanent modifications, this might be worth it.

Accessory Integration: iKamper Raconteur Team Is On It

A much appreciated differentiator for the Raconteur series is the focus on accessory integration. From awning brackets that simplify the attachment of popular setups to accessory panels that maximize space, these add-ons are well thought out and straight forward. The Lift Up Brackets, which provide additional clearance for rooftop tents, are a particularly smart touch that can make a big difference in set up and load out.

The accessory lineup extends to cross bars, recovery track brackets, and a wind deflector light bar that tucks neatly within the frame of the rack. iKamper has clearly put thought into the modularity of the Raconteur series, allowing users to customize their setups without having to improvise solutions.

The iKamper team is rolling out the accessory line up through October 2024 so not all items are available at the time of writing.

Final Thoughts: A Solid “Buy Once, Cry Once” Investment

The iKamper Raconteur Rack Series delivers on its promise of strength, ease of installation, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories. While the price points may deter some budget-conscious buyers, the build quality and thoughtful design could justify the investment for those who prioritize functionality and modularity. There are lighter and cheaper options on the market, but if you’re looking for a rack that integrates seamlessly with existing gear and doesn’t require a single hole drilled, give the Raconteur serious consideration.

• No-Drill Installation: Easy mounting without permanent modifications, preserving your vehicle’s integrity.
• High Load Capacities: Supports heavy loads with 400 lbs dynamic and up to 1,213 lbs static capacity, making it suitable for gear-intensive trips.
• Low-Profile Design: Sleek and unobtrusive appearance that maintains a clean look on your vehicle.
• Accessory Options: Thoughtfully designed accessories like awning brackets, lift-up brackets, and accessory panels add functionality without hassle.

• Multiple Components: The Raconteur racks use a multi-piece construction with numerous screws and bolts instead of a single weld design, which can lead to components loosening over time due to road vibrations.
• Heavy Weight: The racks, especially the bed versions, are on the heavier side, potentially affecting fuel efficiency and vehicle performance.
• Limited Vehicle Compatibility: Currently only available for select Toyota and Jeep models, limiting options for other vehicle owners.
• Accessory Availability: Some accessories, like the Rear Window Accessory Panel and Recovery Track Brackets, are still rolling out and not immediately available.

Overall, the iKamper Raconteur Rack Series stands out as a practical, well-built option for overlanders looking to enhance their vehicle setup. It’s not the most affordable choice, but it checks the boxes for durability, versatility, and ease of use, making it a solid contender in the overlanding rack market.

This review was conducted independently, and no payment or compensation was accepted. All opinions expressed are based solely on the product’s features and performance.

What’s in your overland tool kit? Overlanding is an adventure-filled way of traveling that involves driving your vehicle off-road and into the great outdoors. It’s a journey that requires a great deal of preparation, including having the right tools to handle any mechanical issues that may arise. 

Overland Tool Kit Basics

An overland tool kit should be comprehensive and include everything from basic hand tools to specialized equipment for off-road travel. It’s essential to have a wide range of tools available in case of emergencies or unexpected repairs. 

A good tool kit should be compact and portable, so it can be easily stored in your vehicle without taking up too much space. Remember, the contents of the kit are going to be vehicle dependent, so you need to do a bit of research on the basic tool requirements for the make and model of your vehicle.

Pro tip: Err on the side of ‘more’ when you’re first getting started, and then edit down with experience. 

The Essentials

Here’s a list of some basic items:

1. Wrenches: A set of wrenches, both standard and metric, is a must-have for any overland tool kit. Make sure to include both open-end and box-end wrenches.
2. Screwdrivers: Bring a set of screwdrivers, including both Phillips and flathead. A set of precision screwdrivers can also come in handy for smaller jobs.
3. Pliers: A set of pliers, including slip-joint, needle-nose, and locking pliers, can handle a wide range of tasks.
4. WD-40 or similar multipurpose spray lubricant, protectant, cleaner, etc. This is especially useful for stuck parts. 
5. Super glue and waterproof tape such as T-Rex.
6. Socket Set: A socket set with both standard and metric sizes will allow you to tackle most nuts and bolts.
7. Tire Repair Kit: A tire repair kit is an essential item for any overlander. Make sure to include a tire plug kit, tire pressure gauge, and a portable air compressor.
8. Jumper Cables: Jumper cables are a must-have in case your battery dies. Make sure to get heavy-duty cables capable of handling the amperage required for your vehicle.
9. Duct Tape, Zip Ties and Bale Wire: The trifecta of trail repairs. 
10. Multi-Tool: A multi-tool, such as a Leatherman, can be a lifesaver in a pinch. It includes a variety of tools in one compact package.
11. Shovel: A collapsible shovel can be used for digging yourself out of mud or snow, creating a fire pit, or digging a latrine.
12. Flashlight and Batteries: Keep a small flashlight or headlamp with your tools at all times so proper lighting is always available. 
13. Spare Parts: It’s a good idea to carry spare parts such as belts, hoses, and fuses.

Tool Rolls and Storage

A heavy-duty tool roll is an excellent option for storing your overland tool kit. We have been using our Adventure Tool Company ShopRoll since 2018 and is a perfect example of a high-quality tool roll designed to keep your tools organized and secure. 

The tool roll is made from durable waxed canvas and features multiple pockets to keep your tools in place. It rolls up compactly and can be secured with a buckle, making it easy to store in your vehicle.

We found that a combination of a heavy-duty tool roll with an equally heavy-duty gear bag carries everything we need with room for extra. 

Carrying a small stash of heavy duty ziplock bags, garage rags, and a roll of heavy duty paper towels are also good things to have with you on the trail. 

Final Thoughts

Remember, adventure is best when properly planned. Know your limits and be safe. And carry additional items that might be necessary for a repair like satellite communication options to communicate when traveling off-grid and a solid First Aid Kit. 

Let us know your trail repair experiences and advice in the comments below. Safe travels out there!

Cover photo with a huge pile of North Face Base Camp Duffels by Austin Schmitz for North Face

Updated April 9, 2023

It’s time for a “Gear We Use and Love” update. Today we’re covering the North Face Base Camp duffel we picked up in 2011.

Spoiler alert: It’s in GREAT shape and we still use it.

The North Face Base Camp duffel collection is an absolute beast of a bag that has some serious durability. Racking up five star reviews all over the internet, this bag sits firmly in the “buy once, cry once” category. But even then, $159.00 for the Large bag is completely reasonable in the grand scheme of bag pricing.

Here’s the feature rundown:

• Detachable, adjustable, alpine-cut shoulder straps for an ergonomic fit with minimal twisting
• Two padded side handles serve as both duffel carry handles and haul handles
• D-zip opening with a weather-resistant, zippered flap
• Main compartment has a secure-zip mesh pocket and an end-cap mesh sleeve pocket for more organization
• Legendary rugged construction offers water-resistant Base Camp material, extra bartacks and double stitching
• Four compression straps
• Water-resistant ID window on top
• Mesh-bag packaging helps keep the duffel clean

And true to their commitment to leaving the earth better than they found it, the latest Base Camp duffel is made from recycled body and boot materials while maintaining its legendary durability. North Face is legendary for their commitment to creating sustainable products. You can read about their approach here.

And we aren’t the only ones who rave about this bag. The Base Camp duffel has an outdoor expedtion following of folks who beat it up regularly during their travels. We’ve read that there are still some from 40 years ago in the wild (but we could not confirm this with pictures).

The durability and toughness of the bag make it perfect for winter gear that needs to stay dry, or for heavy duty items like towels, blankets, jackets, etc. This is also a duffel you can pack up for a flight and feel confident it can be checked into baggage and make it intact to the other side of the claim.

A note about moisture: The bag is water resistent, not water proof. When you feel the body material and pull on the zips, you immediately get the sense that items will stay dry so long as you do not completely submerge the bag for more than a few seconds. We feel confident saying the Base Camp will hold on just fine if left in the rain for a chunk of time.

Overland Bound Founder Michael Murguia picked up this bag in spring 2011 as an impulse purchase. This bag STILL sits in his gear locker always at the ready. Every piece of the bag is as solid as the day it was purchased with no signs of fatigure or wear and tear.

Have we raved enough about it yet?

Here’s Michael’s original post from 2011: “Ok, so I am not sure exactly what came over me when I saw this duffle bag from The North Face. Maybe it was my survivalist gene, imagining all my 4-person 3-day survival needs packed in one bag that yells EMERGENCY!

Maybe I imagined throwing this down and establishing base camp at the foot of Everest. I don’t know, but I had to have it. It is not water proof but the hardware and the material make it more than water resistant.

It has enough hooks and loops to hang a small hardware store off the side, and has shoulder straps to wear it as a backpack. Wherever I go, this bag will follow. -Michael”

And follow along the Base Camp duffel has, from the entire Western US to the sunny beaches of Baja and beyond. We recommmend highly!

Opinions are our own. Links to purchase are affiliate links and we receive a small commission from our efforts. Thank you!

Time to talk gear. This week we’re dialoguing about cell signal boosters in an age of satellite tech. Specifically Starlink vs weBoost Drive Reach Overland.

This is not a paid or endorsed article by either company mentioned and opinions are our own.

Ready? Let’s go.

First up: Starlink Roam

Starlink Roam is a mobile satellite internet solution that promises high-speed internet connectivity from virtually anywhere in the world. The system consists of a small, portable satellite dish that can be set up in just a few minutes. Once set up, it provides internet speeds of up to 150Mbps, making it one of the fastest mobile internet solutions available.

For context, a download speed of 150Mbps allows you to stream ultra-HD video on 6 devices at the same time and download an HD movie in 4 minutes.

The Cost Factor

We will not argue the benefits and advantages of having a system like Starlink Roam on your vehicle. However, the one time hardware cost for Starlink Roam Portable is $599 and the one time hardware cost for Starlink Roam In-Motion is a staggering $2,500. This is in addition to the monthly cost of $150/month for regional coverage and $200/month for global coverage.

Who Benefits

These costs make sense if you are a digital nomad, and your income is dependent upon connectivity to the internet. Or if you just like having that level of connectivity no matter what and no matter what reason. 

However, for those who casually explore remote locales, cost of entry could be too steep.  

Pros:

• High-speed internet connectivity from virtually anywhere in the world
• Portable and easy to set up
• No data caps or throttling
• Low latency

Cons:

• Expensive initial cost
• Monthly service subscription is required
• Requires a clear line of sight to the sky
• Limited availability or slower speeds due to high demand in some areas

weBoost Drive Reach Overland

But what about folks who don’t live full time on the road but trek to remote locations on a regular basis? This is where we see cell signal boosters step in.

The WeBoost Drive Reach Overland is a cellular signal booster that amplifies weak cellular signals to provide reliable mobile internet connectivity. The system consists of an external antenna that is mounted on the roof of the vehicle and an internal amplifier that boosts the signal strength inside the vehicle. The Drive Reach Overland promises to improve cellular signal strength by up to 74%.

The Cost Factor

The benefits of a cell signal booster hit right at the top of your wallet. There is a one time charge for the hardware, usually ~$500 so definitely not cheap, but no ongoing subscription costs and no update requirements. It’s one and done. 

This could be of significant value to many types of explorers especially if the hardware is used over the course of 3-4 years.

Who Benefits

A cell signal booster is a fit for those who want data connectivity to keep apps online or the ability to communicate outward with phone calls and text messaging. This is less about accessing your favorite websites and streaming services and more about basic connection. 

Now, a cell signal booster will NOT create a signal for your phone. It does what it says it does. It will use an outside antenna to snag even the faintest of signals then amplify that signal throughout your home or car. 

We used a Drive Sleek by weBoost for years and I was in a constant state of surprise at the amplification that consistently occurred. The short story is that it made a difference.

Cut to 2023 when places we used to go with zero reception are now hitting 1-2 bars LTE (and even 5G) consistently. Cell signal boosters continue to be a gear investment that makes sense to us. 

The Drive Reach Overland ($549.99) comes with a super buff rotating antenna and mounting accessories for your roof rack straight out of the box.

Pros:

• Improves weak cellular signal strength
• Easy to install
• No monthly service subscription required
• Compatible with multiple carriers

Cons:

• Relies on existing cellular signal, so may not work in areas with no coverage
• Limited to cellular internet speeds
• May interfere with other electronic devices

And for those who don’t want the distraction of reception when they’re in the middle of nowhere? That airplane mode is clutch.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to mobile internet solutions, both the Starlink Roam and the WeBoost Drive Reach Overland are more than viable solutions. 

The Starlink Roam provides high-speed internet connectivity from virtually anywhere in the world, but at a higher initial cost and monthly service subscription. 

The WeBoost Drive Reach Overland, on the other hand, provides reliable cellular signal boosting at a lower initial cost and no monthly service subscription, but is limited to cellular internet speeds.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and travel habits (of course). Know how you want to roll and don’t get caught up in the tech gear race.

If you require high-speed internet connectivity in remote areas, the Starlink Roam is the better option. 

If you primarily rely on cellular signal and want to boost your signal strength while on the road, the WeBoost Drive Reach Overland is the way to go.

And now we’re curious to hear your thoughts? What say you? Let us know in the comments.