How to Overland in a Subaru: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure

Here’s what you’ll uncover in this complete guide:

• Why Subaru Works for Overlanding: How models like the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, and Ascent balance AWD capability, compact size, comfort, and efficiency for adventure.
• Must-Have Upgrades & Gear: From lift kits and all-terrain tires to roof racks, rooftop tents, storage solutions, and recovery tools, discover how these additions prepare your Subaru for any trail.
• Planning & Maintenance Made Simple: Learn how to pack smart, stay safe, use the right navigation tools, and care for your vehicle after trips so it stays reliable for every adventure.

Have you seen those Subaru commercials where families load up their Outback and drive through stunning mountain landscapes? The ones showing them confidently navigating dirt roads to reach perfect lakeside campsites, while the narrator reminds you that Subaru helps you go "where love takes you." Far from just a commercial, it’s Subaru proving its overlanding capability.

Subaru's famous slogan, "Love. It's what makes a Subaru, a Subaru," captures something deeper than just the car itself. It’s about where that love can take you, whether it’s down dusty forest roads, across desert washes, or up mountain passes to places most people only dream of visiting.

Welcome to Subaru overlanding, where your everyday family hauler becomes an adventure-ready rig. The same vehicle that handles school pickups and grocery runs can reach remote hot springs, hidden waterfalls, and secluded campsites that bigger trucks often cannot access because of narrow trails.

Subarus surprise many with their capability. Thanks to symmetrical all-wheel drive, they can confidently take on rugged trails that would challenge most cars.

This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the right model, making smart modifications, packing essential gear, and planning trips for unforgettable overlanding adventures.

Why Subaru? The Unexpected Overlanding Champion

When most people think "overlanding vehicle," they picture massive trucks with enormous tires and lift kits that require a ladder to get in. But here's what they're missing: Subarus bring something special to the table that those big rigs often can't match.

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Magic: That AWD system working under your Subaru isn't just marketing fluff; it's genuine capability. Unlike part-time 4WD systems that you have to manually engage, Subaru's AWD is always ready to send power where it's needed most. Whether you're climbing a rocky trail or navigating through sand, that system is constantly working to keep you moving forward with confidence.
• Size Matters (Sometimes Less is More): While everyone else is trying to squeeze their massive rigs down narrow trails, Subarus slip through with ease. That compact footprint means access to places that bigger vehicles simply can't reach. When it comes to parking at trailheads or squeezing through town streets, a Subaru won’t make you feel like you’re maneuvering a rolling apartment building.
• Reliability and Efficiency That Actually Matter: There's something to be said for a vehicle that starts every morning and doesn't drain your wallet at gas stations. Subarus have earned a reputation for being trustworthy, a trait that’s priceless when you’re far from any repair shop. Better fuel economy means longer range between fill-ups and more money in your pocket for gear and camping costs.

PeakGear understands these advantages and designs their equipment specifically to complement what makes Subarus special, rather than trying to turn them into something they're not.

Choosing Your Subaru Overlanding Platform: Model-Specific Insights

Some Subarus are more ‘trail warriors’ than others, but all can perform impressively with the right setup. Are you curious to find out which Subaru model is the best for overlanding? Determining the best Subaru for overlanding depends on various factors. Let’s meet the fan-favorite models and explore what makes each one stand out on the trails.

Subaru Outback Overlanding: The Versatile Workhorse

The Outback hits that sweet spot between capability and comfort that makes it perfect and the best Subaru for overlanding (considered by many). It's no wonder the Subaru Outback overlanding community is so passionate about their builds when you consider what this platform offers:

What Makes the Outback Special:

• Generous cargo space for all your gear
• Comfortable ride that won't beat you up on long trips
• Enough ground clearance to handle most trails
• Spacious interior with a flat loading floor for easy camping setups

Setting up a Subaru Outback camping configuration is simple thanks to that thoughtful interior design. Whether you're building a full Subaru Outback overland setup or just looking to add some weekend adventure capability, the platform is incredibly versatile.

The Wilderness Edition Advantage: The Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition takes things even further with factory upgrades that serious overlanders appreciate:

• Increased ground clearance for tackling rougher terrain
• Upgraded suspension components for better off-road performance
• More aggressive tires straight from the factory
• Enhanced approach and departure angles

For serious Subaru Outback Wilderness overland adventures, it's hard to beat what comes right off the showroom floor, as you get proven overlanding enhancements without the need for immediate modifications

Subaru Forester Off Road: Compact & Capable

Don't let the Forester's family-friendly reputation fool you. This compact SUV is seriously capable when the pavement ends. The Subaru Forester off road performance shines thanks to excellent visibility (you can actually see where you're going), generous ground clearance, and a compact footprint that makes tight trails a breeze.

Building a Subaru Forester overland rig means working with a slightly smaller platform, but that's not necessarily a disadvantage. The Forester's efficiency and maneuverability often make up for what it lacks in cargo space. 

The Subaru Forester Wilderness off road model brings enhanced capability with factory upgrades that would otherwise require aftermarket modifications.

For navigating narrow forest service roads and technical sections, a well-built Subaru Forester overland setup can be surprisingly effective.

Subaru Crosstrek Overland: The Agile Explorer

The Crosstrek might be pint-sized, but it’s punching above its weight on overlanding trails. The Subaru Crosstrek’s overland appeal comes from its nimble handling, excellent fuel efficiency, and surprising capability in a compact package.

Planning a Crosstrek overland build requires some creativity with space, but the trade-off is a vehicle that can go places others can't. That smaller size and lighter weight mean better fuel economy and the ability to navigate trails that would challenge larger vehicles.

Subaru Ascent Overland: Family-Friendly Adventures

For families who need more space but don't want to give up Subaru's AWD advantage, the Ascent offers three rows and serious cargo capacity. A Subaru Ascent overland build works well when you need to haul gear for multiple people or want the comfort of a larger interior on long trips.

The trade-off is size and fuel economy, but for the right application, the Ascent can handle overlanding duties while keeping everyone comfortable.

The Wilderness Edition Advantage

Across the lineup, Subaru's Wilderness editions represent the most capable factory overlanding platforms the company offers. These models come with increased ground clearance, upgraded suspension tuning, all-terrain tires, and protective cladding that would otherwise require aftermarket modifications.

PeakGear recognizes the enhanced capabilities of these Wilderness models and offers compatible gear designed to work seamlessly with their increased ride height and improved approach angles.

Essential Upgrades for Your Subaru Overlanding Build

While Subarus are capable right off the lot, a few key modifications can dramatically improve their overlanding performance. The aim isn’t to make your Subaru a rock-climbing machine; it’s to make its natural talents even better. Let's find out what modifications are needed to overland in a Subaru.

Suspension Lift Kits: Gaining Crucial Clearance

A Subaru suspension lift is often the first and most impactful modification for serious overlanding. An outback lift kit provides crucial ground clearance for rocks, logs, and uneven terrain while improving approach and departure angles, which leads many to ask: Do I need a lift kit to overland in a Subaru?

The key is choosing the right amount of lift. Pile on too many upgrades, and your Subaru might struggle on highways and sip more fuel than it should. Most overlanders find that a modest 1-2 inch lift provides the perfect balance of capability and drivability.

Installing an outback lift kit on a Subaru Outback overland build can be the difference between confidently tackling rough terrain and tiptoeing around obstacles.

All-Terrain Tires: Grip for Any Trail

Factory tires are designed for pavement, not trails. Upgrading to all terrain tires for Subaru models immediately improves traction on dirt, gravel, mud, and sand, making a noticeable difference.

Key Factors When Shopping for All-Terrain Tires:

• Tread pattern - Choose designs that grip and dig into loose terrain effectively
• Sidewall strength - Reinforced sidewalls resist punctures from rocks and debris
• Load rating - Ensure tires can handle your vehicle, along with the gear weight
• Highway performance - Quality all-terrain tires handle paved roads comfortably as well.

When shopping for the best all terrain tires for Subaru Outback or all terrain tires for Subaru Forester, these considerations ensure you get tires that excel both on and off the beaten path.

The Confidence Factor: The confidence boost from switching to all terrain tires for Subaru Forester or any other model is immediate and noticeable. You'll especially feel the difference on:

• Muddy trails where factory tires would slip and slide
• Loose gravel roads that used to feel sketchy
• Sandy surfaces that previously required extra caution
• Rocky terrain where you need a reliable grip

A good set of all-terrain tires transforms your Subaru's capability while maintaining the comfortable highway driving you're used to.

Roof Racks & Storage Solutions: Maximizing Cargo Space

A sturdy roof rack for your Subaru unlocks a world of cargo options. From bikes and kayaks to a roof top tent, that extra space on top becomes incredibly useful.

Exploring Subaru roof storage options reveals several approaches: traditional cross bars for lighter loads, full platform racks for maximum versatility, and specialized carriers for specific gear. Options like Subaru Outback roof storage systems, Subaru cargo carrier setups, Subaru luggage carrier configurations, and Subaru car top carrier solutions each serve different needs.

A high-quality roof rack for Subaru from PeakGear provides the foundation for carrying essential gear, including roof top tents, without compromising interior space for passengers and supplies.

Recovery Gear & Protection

Even the most careful overlander occasionally needs help getting unstuck or protecting their vehicle from trail damage. Basic recovery equipment like tow straps, a shovel, and a tire repair kit can save a trip, while skid plates and rock sliders protect vulnerable components.

PeakGear offers a comprehensive range of Racks (Bed Racks, Roof Racks, Cross Bars) and Recovery Equipment (Air Compressors, Winches) provides essential upgrades for any serious Subaru overlanding build.

Essential Gear for Your Subaru Overland Setup

Your Subaru might be ready for anything, but without the right gear, you’re just camping… poorly. Pick equipment that matches your car’s size and superpowers, and suddenly the outdoors is way more fun.

Sleeping Solutions: Elevated Comfort on the Trail

Roof top tents have revolutionized Subaru overlanding by providing comfortable sleeping accommodations without taking up precious cargo space. A Subaru Outback tent or tent for Subaru Forester mounts to your roof rack system and sets up in minutes.

Subaru owners can choose from PeakGear’s selection of roof top tents by size (2 person roof top tents, 3 person roof top tents) and roof top tents by type (Hard shell roof top tents, soft shell roof top tents, hybrid roof top tents), designed to fit their vehicles perfectly.

Hard shell tents offer the fastest setup and best weather protection, while soft shell options provide more sleeping space when deployed. Hybrid designs split the difference, offering good protection with reasonable setup time.

Annex rooms can expand your living space even further, creating a comfortable base camp wherever you park.

Storage & Organization: Keeping Your Rig Tidy

A good organization makes any overlanding setup more enjoyable and functional. Internal solutions like drawer systems and cargo organizers keep essentials accessible, while external options like Subaru roof storage, Subaru cargo carrier, Subaru luggage carrier, and Subaru car top carrier systems maximize carrying capacity.

PeakGear provides storage solutions like boxes and cases, and drawer systems that are designed specifically for the overlanding lifestyle, keeping gear secure and organized even on rough trails.

Proper organization using drawer systems provided by PeakGear makes the difference between a frustrating search for essential items and having everything at your fingertips when you need it.

Kitchen & Cooking Gear: Fueling Your Adventures

Compact cooking systems and portable refrigerators transform meal planning on overlanding trips. Instead of relying on ice and canned goods, a quality refrigerator keeps fresh food cold for days without the mess of melting ice.

Kitchen accessories provided by PeakGear are designed for outdoor use, providing reliable performance in challenging conditions while packing down small for transport.

Off-Grid Power Solutions: Staying Charged

Modern overlanding often needs power for GPS, radios, cameras, and small comforts. PeakGear’s selection of solar power packs and panels deliver reliable electricity wherever you go.

Power packs and off grid accessories provided by PeakGear ensure you can stay connected and powered up even on extended trips far from civilization.

PeakGear's comprehensive offerings include everything needed for a complete Subaru overlanding setup: Roof top tents, awnings, racks, storage, and off grid solutions, all designed to work together seamlessly.

Planning Your Subaru Overland Trip: From Idea to Execution

Sure, having a beefed-up Subaru and top-notch gear helps, but overlanding is mostly about brains over brawn. Play it smart and plan ahead; otherwise, your adventure might turn into a sitcom on wheels.

Route Planning & Navigation

The key to enjoyable Subaru overlanding is choosing trails that match your vehicle's capabilities. While a lifted truck might charge up steep rocky climbs, your Subaru excels on forest service roads, two-track trails, and moderate terrain.

Offline mapping apps and GPS devices become essential when cell service disappears. Download maps and waypoints before heading out, and always have a backup navigation method.

Packing Smart: What to Bring and How to Pack It

Weight distribution matters more in a Subaru than in a heavy-duty truck. Keep heavy items low and centered, and use Subaru roof storage for lighter, bulkier items like sleeping bags and clothing.

Essential recovery gear should always be easily accessible and not buried under other supplies.

Smart packing, using Subaru roof storage and internal organizers effectively, makes every trip more enjoyable by keeping necessities within reach while maintaining vehicle balance and handling.

Safety & Emergency Preparedness

A true overlander relies on their own skills and gear to tackle the journey. Carry first aid supplies, communication devices for emergencies, and enough food and water for longer than planned. Being familiar with basic recovery techniques can keep your adventure on track when the unexpected happens.

Developing these skills and bringing the right equipment provides confidence and safety on every adventure.

Maintaining Your Subaru Overland Rig: Post-Adventure Care

Taking care of your Subaru and gear after each trip ensures years of reliable service and helps identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Post-Trip Inspection

After every overlanding trip, especially on challenging terrain, inspect your suspension components, all terrain tires for Subaru, and undercarriage for damage. Look for loose bolts, torn boots, or anything that seems out of place.

Catching small issues early prevents expensive repairs down the road and keeps your rig ready for the next adventure.

Cleaning & Storage

Cleaning isn't just about appearance, as dirt and salt can cause long-term damage if left unchecked. Pay special attention to areas where mud and debris accumulate, and don't forget about your overlanding gear.

Proper roof top tent storage involves thoroughly drying the fabric before packing it away to prevent mold and mildew. Take time to clean and inspect all gear after each trip.

Addressing Common Issues

Overlanding puts different stresses on vehicles than daily driving. Keep an eye on suspension components, especially after installing a Subaru suspension lift, and monitor tire wear patterns that might indicate alignment issues.

Regular maintenance becomes even more important when you're depending on your vehicle in remote locations.

Thanks to PeakGear's commitment to quality, their products can provide years of dependable service on countless overlanding adventures when properly cared for.

Why Choose PeakGear for Your Subaru Overlanding Needs?

PeakGear specializes in quality gear for epic adventures, offering everything from truck caps and campers to recovery equipment and off-grid power solutions. Our dedication to equipping overlanding enthusiasts shows in every product we offer.

Roof Top Tents for Every Subaru: For Subaru owners looking for the best Subaru for overlanding, PeakGear provides an extensive range of tents tailored to each model. We covered this earlier, but here’s a quick look at what they can do.:

• Hard Shell Roof Top Tents - Quick setup and maximum weather protection
• Hybrid Roof Top Tents - Perfect balance of convenience and space
• Soft Shell Roof Top Tents - Maximum sleeping area when deployed

Complete Overlanding Solutions: Beyond tents, PeakGear offers everything needed for a full setup:

• Awnings - 180° and 270° options for shade and weather protection
• Racks - Bed racks, roof racks, and cross bars for secure gear mounting
• Storage - Boxes, cases, and drawer systems for organized packing
• Off-Grid Essentials - Power packs, refrigerators, solar power, and water purification

The One-Stop Advantage: This comprehensive approach means building a complete overlanding setup with compatible, quality components all from one trusted source. PeakGear's mission is to transform regular vehicles into capable adventure rigs for extended expeditions and off-grid camping, which is exactly what Subaru overlanding is all about.

Your Subaru, Your Overland Adventure

Overlanding in a Subaru isn't about having the biggest, most extreme vehicle on the trail. It's about maximizing the capabilities you already have, making smart modifications that enhance rather than compromise daily drivability, and choosing gear that works with your platform's strengths.

For those wondering about the best Subaru for overlanding, models like the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek all offer a strong foundation. 

With its all-wheel drive, dependable performance, and fuel efficiency, a Subaru makes a surprisingly strong base for overlanding trips. With the right modifications, including a modest lift, quality all-terrain tires, and a solid roof rack system, including essential gear like a roof top tent and recovery equipment, you'll be amazed at the places your trusty Subaru can take you.

The beauty of Subaru overlanding lies in its accessibility. You can dive in without spending a fortune or knowing everything about car mechanics. Begin with basic modifications and gear, then build your setup over time as you discover what works for your style of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can a Subaru really handle overlanding, or is it only good for easy trails?

Subarus, especially models like the Outback Wilderness edition and Forester Wilderness, are surprisingly capable for light to moderate overlanding. Their Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, decent ground clearance, and compact size let them tackle many unpaved roads and forest trails where bigger rigs might struggle.

Which Subaru is considered the best Subaru for overlanding for someone just starting out

Beginners often consider the Subaru Outback the best Subaru for overlanding because it strikes a perfect balance between comfort, cargo space, and off-road capability. The Forester and Crosstrek are also strong contenders, especially for those planning lighter modifications or more compact setups.

What upgrades matter most for a Subaru overlanding build?

Key upgrades usually include:

• All-terrain tires for traction on dirt and mud
• Suspension lift like an Outback lift kit for extra clearance
• Roof rack to carry gear and roof top tents

Can I put a roof top tent on my Subaru? Which type works best?

Absolutely! With a sturdy roof rack, you can mount a roof top tent on your Subaru. For Outbacks or Foresters, lightweight soft shell tents or compact hard shell tents from PeakGear are ideal, depending on your space and weight needs.

What are the best storage solutions for Subaru overlanding?

Smart storage keeps trips organized and stress-free. Consider:

• Exterior options: Cargo carriers, luggage carriers, or car top carriers
• Interior solutions: Drawer systems and cargo organizers, like those from PeakGear, to maximize space and accessibility

Do I need a full overland build to start overlanding in my Subaru?

Definitely not. Plenty of people get started with simple additions like a roof rack and rugged tires. The key is understanding your Subaru’s limits and choosing trails that match your setup.

What recovery gear should I have for Subaru overlanding?

Essential recovery items include:

• Shovel
• Traction boards
• Recovery strap
• Basic first aid kit

For trickier trails, an air compressor or a small winch can provide extra safety and confidence.

Is a Subaru capable of off-roading?

Yes, with symmetrical all-wheel drive, decent ground clearance, and the right tires, Subarus handle dirt roads, trails, and moderate off-road terrain well.

How do you set up a Subaru for overlanding?

Key steps include adding a roof rack, all-terrain tires, optional suspension lift, storage solutions, and essential overlanding gear like a roof top tent and recovery equipment.

What overlanding gear fits a Subaru?

Roof top tents (Hard Shell, Soft Shell, Hybrid), awnings, racks (roof, bed, cross bars), storage boxes and drawers, portable refrigerators, and off-grid power solutions all work well.

Can I sleep inside my Subaru during overlanding trips?

Yes, the Subaru’s interior can be used for sleeping, but many overlanders prefer roof top tents for off-ground comfort and extra space.