5 Essential Pieces of Gear I Always Carry on Every Adventure

When you're off the grid, the right gear can make or break your trip. Whether I’m overlanding, hitting the trails, or just exploring the unknown, there are five essential pieces of gear I always carry. These aren’t just random tools—they’ve been tested in the wild, proven reliable, and earned a permanent spot in my setup.

1. Tembo Tusk Skottle – The Ultimate Camp Kitchen Essential

Cooking in the backcountry needs to be quick, easy, and mess-free, and the Tembo Tusk Skottle delivers on all three. This rugged, propane-powered disc cooker is as versatile as it gets—whether I’m making breakfast burritos, stir-fry, or even a burger after a long day on the trail.

Why I Always Carry It:

• No pots or pans needed—just cook on the disc.
• Heats evenly and is easy to clean.
• Compact and perfect for overland travel.

If you’re serious about camp cooking, the Skottle is a game-changer.

2. ICECO Fridge – Reliable Cold Storage Anywhere

Keeping food and drinks cold when you're off-grid is non-negotiable, and the ICECO fridge makes sure I never worry about spoiled food or melted ice. Unlike traditional coolers, this compressor fridge runs off 12V power and keeps everything at a consistent temp, no matter how hot it gets outside.

Why I Always Carry It:

• No need for ice—more space for food and drinks.
• Runs off my Jeep’s battery or solar power.
• Super durable and built for overland abuse.

For multi-day trips, this fridge is an absolute must.

3. Crazy Beaver Shovel – More Than Just a Shovel

If you’ve ever been stuck in mud, snow, or sand, you know how important a good shovel is. The Crazy Beaver Shovel is hands down the toughest, most aggressive off-road shovel I’ve ever used. Its serrated edges cut through anything—mud, packed snow, or even roots when you need to dig deep.

Why I Always Carry It:

• Rugged and durable—won’t bend under pressure.
• Serrated edges make digging way easier.
• Lightweight and easy to mount on my rig.

Every off-roader needs a reliable shovel, and this one never lets me down.

4. Spot Emergency Communicator – Peace of Mind When It Matters

When you’re exploring remote areas, cell service isn’t always an option. That’s where the Spot Emergency Communicator comes in. This satellite-based device lets me send check-ins, messages, and SOS alerts from anywhere on the planet.

Why I Always Carry It:

• Stay connected even in dead zones.
• SOS button for emergencies.
• Battery lasts for weeks on a single charge.

Having a way to call for help when there’s no signal is 100% essential for off-grid travel.

5. Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Camp Vibes, Anywhere

A good Bluetooth speaker might not be “essential” for survival, but it definitely makes camp life better. Whether I’m cooking, relaxing by the fire, or wrenching on my rig, having music (or a podcast) just makes the experience better.

Why I Always Carry It:

• Compact and easy to toss in the gear bag.
• Waterproof and dustproof—no worries in bad weather.
• Long battery life for days of tunes.

It’s the little things that turn a trip into an experience.

Final Thoughts

These five pieces of gear have earned a permanent spot in my setup because they make life easier, safer, and more enjoyable when I’m off the grid. Whether I’m cooking on the Tembo Tusk Skottle, keeping food fresh in the ICECO fridge, digging out of trouble with the Crazy Beaver Shovel, staying safe with my Spot Emergency Communicator, or just kicking back with a Bluetooth speaker, these essentials are always in my rig.

What’s your must-have gear for the trail? Drop a comment below!