Off the Grid – Overlanding Rises in Canada

As more Canadians head into the wilderness, overlanding emerges as 2025’s most adventurous auto trend.

June 24, 2025 Alwin Automotive, Editorial 0

Off the Grid - Overlanding Rises in Canada — 2024 Toyota Tacoma for overlanding (image source: Sharp Automotive Group)

Canadian drivers are hitting the road less travelled—literally. The overlanding movement, which blends off-roading with off-grid camping, is growing rapidly across the country, and 2025 is proving to be a breakout year.

What is Overlanding?

More than a camping trip and more than a road trip, overlanding is about self-reliant travel to remote destinations. Think rooftop tents, portable power systems, solar panels, and heavy-duty vehicle mods. For Canadians, it offers a chance to experience the beauty of the country’s vast landscapes without relying on traditional campsites or RV hookups.

The Best Overlanding Platforms in 2025

Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Rugged and reliable, the Tacoma remains a favourite among overlanders thanks to its off-road tuning and accessory support.
Ford Bronco
With removable doors, terrain management modes, and lots of modular gear options, the Bronco continues to attract the backcountry crowd.
Jeep Gladiator Mojave
Combining the utility of a pickup with Jeep’s legendary off-road capability, the Gladiator is well-suited for gear-heavy treks.
Subaru Outback Wilderness
A great unibody option for soft-roaders who want to dip into overlanding without fully committing to a lifted rig.
Ram 2500 Power Wagon
For those who want serious payload capacity and power, the Power Wagon is built to haul and conquer rugged terrain.

Essential Mods & Gear

Overlanders in Canada are investing in:

Rooftop tents and awnings
Upgraded suspension kits
All-terrain tires
Solar battery systems
Fridge/freezer units
Portable showers & recovery kits

Why Now?

With a renewed interest in outdoor recreation and remote work, more Canadians are embracing the idea of a mobile lifestyle. Rising campsite fees and crowded provincial parks have also pushed adventurers to seek new frontiers.

Social media communities and YouTube creators have made overlanding more accessible than ever, inspiring a new generation of drivers to go off the beaten path.

Final Word

Whether you’re planning a long-haul trek through the Rockies or a weekend escape to Algonquin’s back roads, overlanding offers the freedom to explore Canada on your own terms.

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About Alwin 15319 Articles

Alwin Marshall-Squire is the Editor-in-Chief of S-Q Publications Inc., publisher of GTA Weekly News. He oversees all editorial content and leads the publication’s mission to deliver bold, original journalism focused on the people and communities of the Greater Toronto Area. He can be reached at alwin.squire@gtaweekly.ca.