Overlanding is your ticket to break free from the mundane and step into a world filled with untamed trails and endless adventures. When it comes to picking a ride for this kind of journey, the vintage Ford Bronco isn’t always the first to come up in conversation but when you take a closer look you can see why those who choose it list it as one of their favorites. What can we say? Overlanding in a Ford Bronco is just fun.
It’s got that old-school charm, compact size, the kind of reliability that wins you over, and a design that still makes people’s hearts beat a little faster when you drive by.
Is Ford Bronco Suitable for Off-road Adventures?
The thing about the early Ford Bronco is that it was born with a love for the wild. Its neat and compact build, paired with a good lift off the ground and sturdy axles, makes it a champ on rough terrains. Unlike many of the flashy SUVs today, vintage Broncos keep things simple but strong for off-road adventures. Overlanding in a Ford Bronco is just fun. They can scramble over rocky paths, wade through streams, and plow through mud like it’s just another day in the park. The off-road grit of early Broncos isn’t just about looks, it’s about having a ride you can count on when the trail gets tough.
How Does Bronco Do on Long Trips and Diverse Terrains?
Long drives across a mix of terrains are the essence of overlanding. And the early Broncos? They’ve got a knack for it. They offer a comfy yet practical setup for those long hauls. The roomy inside gives you enough space to stash your gear, while its solid build ensures a smooth sail across different landscapes. Be it rolling on sandy tracks or crawling over rocky trails, the Bronco adjusts well, keeping the ride comfy. Plus, their simple design makes fixing them up on the go a lot less of a headache, which is a big deal when you’re out in the wild for days.
What Trailers Can Early Broncos Tow for Overlanding?
When it comes to towing a camper or a gear-loaded trailer, the early Bronco has got your back. With a decent towing capacity, it can haul most of the lightweight overlanding trailers with ease. But hey, not all trailers are made equal. If you’re eyeing a top-notch overlanding camping trailer, choose a lighter option that won’t have your Bronco breaking a sweat. And remember, keeping it light not only eases the load on your Bronco but also makes for a smoother ride on those bumpy trails.
Check out one of these trailers from Patriot Campers! We’ve taken the X1 out for a weekend test and surpassed all our expectations! With a remote-controlled, electric, composite hard roof, tons of storage, and room to sleep 2 to 6 people – this camper is a game changer when it comes to Overlanding in your Early Bronco.
How to Build Your Overland Bronco for Long Expeditions?
Dreaming of turning your early Bronco into an overlanding haven? Start with ensuring the heart of your Bronco, the engine, and its pals—the transmission and axles—are in tip-top shape. Next, think about giving it a good pair of shoes; we’re talking about tires that can handle both highways and rocky trails. And while you’re at it, a lift kit wouldn’t hurt to give you that extra clearance when the going gets rough.
Now, let’s see how you can get out of the sun. If you’re like us and love the great outdoors, the 270 XT MAX Awning Mk2 from The Bush Company is a game-changer. It’s our go-to for camping trips because it offers a generous shade area, which is perfect when you’re out with family or friends.
What we find really impressive is how quick and easy it is to set up – even if we’re the only ones out there. Plus, it packs down just as easily, so you don’t have to wrestle with it when it’s time to hit the road.
The material is a durable rip-stop canvas in a nice olive green color. It’s treated for water resistance and is also mold and mildew-resistant, which is great for those damp mornings in the wilderness.
The frame is sturdy but flexible, made from an aluminum alloy composite. It holds up well, even in strong winds. And while it comes with guy ropes and pegs, you don’t actually need any poles, which is a nice bonus.
All in all, the 270 XT MAX Awning Mk2 has been a fantastic addition to our camping gear. It’s robust, practical, and makes a real difference to the comfort of my outdoor adventures.
Accommodations for Overlanding: How Comfortable is a Bronco?
The beauty of Overlanding is making the great outdoors your home, and your early Bronco can be the cozy dwelling you need. While the Bronco’s interior isn’t exactly a sprawling mansion, with the right setup, it can be a comfortable basecamp. Pulling a small trailer with a roof top tent can have you sleeping under the stars and if you put a roof carrier on the top of your Bronco, you’ll have plenty of space to store all the gear you need and more! We’ve even seen some people hammock camping from their 270 awning from The Bush Company.
What are the Essential Cooking Equipment for Overlanding?
Now, onto one of the joys of overlanding – cooking in the wild! Your early Bronco has just enough space to pack a compact kitchen and a cooler or portable refrigerator. We suggest a portable stove as your ticket to hot meals under the open sky. And when it comes to cooking up your favorite camp meals, the Skottle grill (a flat, pre-seasoned Carbon Steel grill) from Tembo Tusk is our go-to.
In our overlanding experience, it’s a piece of equipment we personally use and recommend for any Bronco adventurer.
What makes the Skottle Grill stand out is its adaptability. Whether you’re craving pancakes at sunrise or a grilled steak under the stars, the Skottle Grill has got you covered. It’s like having a portable kitchen right in your Bronco.
Its compact size and easy setup are another big plus, especially when space is at a premium in a vintage Bronco. The grill packs away neatly into a single carry bag, making it an ideal companion for overlanding trips.
We believe in the quality of Tembo Tusk products and the Skottle Grill is no exception. It’s sturdy, reliable, and designed to endure the rigors of outdoor cooking. We’ve seen it hold up trip after trip, and we’re confident it will enhance your overlanding experience.
So, from one Bronco fan to another, we heartily endorse the Skottle Grill from Tembo Tusk. It’s transformed our outdoor cooking adventures and we believe it’ll do the same for you.
Power Solutions: What’s the Best Battery for Overlanding in a Bronco?
Powering up your gadgets and gear is crucial when you’re out in the wild. For your early Bronco, having a reliable battery setup is key. Look for a portable power station that has ultra-fast charging and is extremely high in efficiency. And hey, it’s always a good idea to have some portable solar panels to bring along. It’s eco-friendly and ensures you have a power source as long as the sun is shining.
Cooling Solutions: How to Install an AC Unit in a Vintage Ford Bronco?
Staying cool is no small feat when you’re overlanding in hotter climates. Installing an AC unit in your vintage Bronco can be a game-changer. If you’ve got some experience you could do it yourself or you can always go with a good mechanic, but having a cool retreat in the scorching heat is well worth the effort.
If you’re tent camping, rooftop tent camping, or you’re off grid and can’t plug your trailer into shore power – you could check out the IcyBreeze which they tout as the world’s first portable AC unit. We’ve had some friends use this and they really loved it.
Storage and Equipment: How to Organize Your Bronco for Overlanding?
Organization is your best friend on an overlanding expedition. Your early Bronco doesn’t have a ton of space, but it’s all about how you use it.
Create a spot for everything – cooking gear, clothes, tools, and emergency supplies. Utilize storage boxes, and maybe invest in a roof rack or a rear cargo carrier for extra storage. It not only keeps things tidy but also easily accessible. And remember, packing light but smart is the mantra for a hassle-free overlanding experience.
To wrap up, here’s a top 10 easy ways to up your Overlanding game in your Ford Bronco.
- Winches: A winch can be invaluable when you find yourself stuck in challenging terrain such as mud, sand or snow.
- Off-Road Wheel and Tire Kits: These will significantly improve performance and durability on tough trails.
- Pull Behind Trailer: This provides a comfortable place to sleep off the ground and away from critters, enhancing your overall camping experience.
- 270 or 180 Awning: This accessory provides shade and shelter from rain, making your camping experience more comfortable.
- Recovery Kit: It’s always good to have tools like tow straps, shackles, and gloves on hand for vehicle recovery situations.
- Air Compressor: Useful for inflating tires after a trail where lower tire pressure was required.
- Molle Grate System: Helps with organization and storage, allowing gear to be securely attached to the grate.
- Off-Road Lighting: Improved visibility for nighttime driving or setting up camp is crucial.
- Traction Boards: These can be a lifesaver on sandy, muddy or snowy terrain, providing your vehicle with the necessary grip to get moving again.
- Portable Grill: A compact and versatile grill like the Skottle can make cooking on your overlanding trip a breeze.
Ready to build your overlanding Bronco? Start with the strongest foundation with a Kincer Chassis Adventure Series Chassis!
