This summer we plan on doing a good deal of travel around the US. What better way to start than the Iconic Route 66!!!
These aren't preparations as far as route planning or hotels/camping, this is everything we did to get ready for this long journey. We'll go over our vehicle setup, video and amateur camera gear and some things we carry with us.
We like to look at ourselves as Freestyle Travelers. There is always a general direction but no real destination or place we have to be. This makes it easier for us if we find an area that we like and extend our stay, which happens several times on this trip.
Let's take a look at our rig and gear!
Camera Gear
Both of us really enjoy photography. We're just starting out with anything other than our phones. After doing some research over the winter, this is what we decided on.
GoPro Hero 9 Black
Our first choice was for a GoPro Hero 9 Black. We got the package that came with extra batteries and a dual charger. This is what we planned on using for the video recording.
It turned out the GoPro also takes excellent pictures! Like this one.
It's compact and has a ton of mounting accessories. You can mount it just about anywhere and it's waterproof. The GoPro is a very rugged camera and we're happy with our decision to buy it.
Sony Nex-5r
Camera phones have come a LONG way but we wanted a little more. After looking at some entry level mirrorless cameras it was this Sony for the win.
The camera and technology are 10yrs old. We found a very gently used setup for a reasonable price. So far the camera has been amazing! It came with a new battery, carrying case, charging cable and 2 lenses (18-55mm and 55-210mm).
Here is a shot at 210mm.
Vehicle and Supplies
We wanted something large enough to fit all of our stuff and also be capable of off-road travel. The 2006 Toyota Sequoia SR5 fit this perfect for us.
It was a high milage vehicle (200,000 miles) but everything functioned properly. All the fluids including Differentials, Transmission and Coolant systems were replaced with OEM fluids.
The Sequoia has good ground clearance but the suspension was tired. Everything was replaced with an Old Man Emu 2.5in lift with Freedom off road control arms. It took a few thousand miles to break it in and now rides better than factory IMHO.
Typically this is a 3 row 8 passenger SUV. I pulled out all the seats and built a storage platform where we can always have our camping gear stored. It's made of some cheap 1/2in particle board that will be getting upgraded again in the near future.
This picture was after we started our trip. It started out more organized. LOL.
Inside we carry a backpack tent for fast setup/takedown. An easy-up 10ftx10ft canopy with tent that attaches for longer stays or bad weather. If the weather gets really bad we can put our gear under the truck and sleep in the back of the truck.
Most of the other stuff is what anyone would pack. Tools, First Aid, Sleeping Bags, Rain Gear and a Camp Kitchen. I'd like to think we could pull up just about anywhere and be fine for a week.
I hope you like our setup. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below and I'll do my best to answer them.
