Overland Expo is a biannual gathering of vehicle based travelers and adventurers from all over the world. Twice a year, the journey to Expo West in the spring and Expo East in the fall takes place. Currently residing in Northern Michigan, I made the 12 hour trip Southeast to Infinity Downs in Arrington Virginia, the site of this years Overland Expo East
Overland Expo East 2019 Video:
Outgrowing last years venue in North Carolina due to sustained growth of 20% over the past 5 years, the larger Infinity Downs became the new host for the foreseeable future. With a 22% increase in attendees, the staff still parked our rigs unusually close to one another in the overnight camping area to avoid running out of room. Fortunately for us, we were surrounded by an interesting and friendly mix of Overlanders from across the US. Which resulted in many laughs, sharing of stories, food & drinks and ultimately new friendships.
Overland Expo East Stats:
- 12,500+ Attendees
- 188 Exhibitors
- 1,000+ Adventure Rigs
- 200+ Adventure Motorcycles
- 100 Volunteers
- 125 Presenters, Trainers & Instructors
But the real reason everyone makes the pilgrimage to these Expos is to drool over the amazing rigs, bikes, new gear, and possibly partake in specific training or education. With over 180 exhibitors, there were acres of adventure rigs, trailers, tents, bikes, gear and accessories to peruse for the next 3 days. Major manufacturers like General Tires partnered with Northeast Off-Road Adventures providing attendees the ability to drive their General Tire equipped Jeeps on a specially built obstacle course. And for those that prefer to explore the capabilities their own vehicle, purchasing the “Overland Experience” allowed access to a much larger test area with certified instructors guiding you through varying obstacles.
It was easy to get distracted while making my way through the Expo row by row. Seeing something shiny and new, I threw caution to the wind abandoned my systematic plan of attack. Darting all over the place like a complete amateur. Constantlly bumping into guys and gals that dominate my YouTube feed. And getting the chance to interview them. It was a real pleasure to gain prospective and insight into how they continue to make Overland travel a way of life.
Below is just a glimpse of the eye candy that littered the landscape at Infinity Downs…
The Rigs:
Onsite Training:
Lifestyle Overland
It was pretty obvious to me that Jeeps new model, the Gladiator, was the shiny new toy. And it makes perfect sense that most shops chose to outfit one for the show. Take all that’s been perfected over decades of Jeep Wrangler service and add the utility of a small truck. Making the Gladiator an excellent Overland vehicle to start with. Jack it up, slap on some 35” tires (or larger), and you’re ready for anything.
Rooftop tents are still a go-to in the Overland community. But I‘m noticing a trend towards more durable hard topped units in contrast to the soft top unit I currently use. Also, lighter weight tents to accommodate a wider range of vehicle roof loads and cross bar limitations. As well as tents that set up in a minimal amount of time. And those that have set up a roof top tent in a rain squall will agree that this is a much appreciated trend. Something I’ll look into for my FJ Cruiser.
The People
Although Overland Expo is a showcase of vehicles, gear and accessories, we discovered that this gathering of likeminded travelers is more about the people than anything else. Each night featured a centrally located film festival. where various explorers and adventures shared their experiences with crowds of eager onlookers. The overnight camping area was bustling with evening get togethers amongst new friends. People wandered about asking questions, taking pictures and commenting on each other’s Overland rigs. Proving once again that these events are still social gatherings. Our biggest takeaway from the weekend wasn‘t a piece of gear at all. It was the camaraderie developed between us and our neighbors. And we look forward to following their adventures until we meet again next year.
While on the way to Expo East, I had a few days to explore a new region of the US. Check out my stop in the Red River Gorge in Kentucky here.
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