TURAS Camping and 4WD Adventures Magazine - Issue Seventeen

GEAR - CAMPING - TRAVEL - CAMP COOKING - NEWS - FISHING

EPISODE 1

FREE

E-MAGAZINE

WINTER 2020 - ISSUE 17

THE BUILD

PLUS

REMOTE POWER EXPLORING

WILD CAMPING LATEST GEAR & MUCH MORE

WINTER TYRES

POLAND

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

CAMP COOKING

THE LAND ROVER BUILD - CUBBY BOX - HISTORY OF WINTER TYRES

Editorial

We hope that all of our readers are safe and well during these strange times. Probably like yourselves we had very few opportunities to get out and about this year, but when we did get a chance to get a few shorter trips in,we really enjoyed it. Nature is a true antidote to many of the troubles of modern life. We hope you all managed to grab some time outdoors also, before the return of winter and the second waves of Covid19. It seems like there is some light on the horizon with some great vaccine candidates in testing. Hopefully, we will experience somewhat of a return to normal next year.

travelled TURAS Defender 90.

We Tour Poland with Tomek Maj of Land4travel, we take a look at the history of winter tyres and their origin back in the 1930s with Nokian Tyres.

Sometimes it’s nice to travel light, and you can learn more about a recent wild camping trip from TURAS team member Paul. We learn about some great organisations around the world, doing their bit to protect the environment and to help to keep the trails open for 4WD Tourers around the globe, and doing our bit, we share some helpful information on how to take a dump (properly) in the wild. This issue also sees part 2 of the Funki Adventures Van Build by team member Frank in In the meantime, as always, we San Diego. And as always we hope that this issue of the mag- bring you the latest top quality azine entertains you, and gives camping and touring gear and you some ideas for your future vehicle accessories with lots of adventures. In this issue, we interesting articles and videos. introduce our own Land Rover Enough said , we hope you Defender Build, with the first enjoy this issue ‌.. instalment in a series which will document an exciting renovation and rebuild of this well

The TURAS team

Photo:Nicolas Genoud - Geko Expeditions

EDITORIAL TEAM

Russ Ryan Mark O’Toole CONTRIBUTORS

Ron Moon Viv Moon Paul Frith Trish Melody Alison Scanlon Marie Frith Frank Cassidy Tomek Maj

Russ Mark

DESIGN TEAM

Paul

Russ Ryan Mark O’Toole Marie Frith PUBLISHED BY

TURAS Camping & 4WD Adventures Ltd.

Trish

SUBSCRIPTIONS

To subscribe to the free magazine and interim email newsletters, please visit: www.turas.tv/subscribe SALES & ADVERTISING

info@turas.ie

Ali Frank Marie

Copyright © 2020 TURAS Camping and 4WD Adventures Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, please contact: info@turas.ie

You can get in touch with the TURAS team at info@turas.ie or via the contact form on our website.

WWW.TURAS.TV

TURAS Touring Land Rover Build

10

How to take a Dump in the wild

DARCHE Retreat Annex

24

40

A History of Winter Tyres

Paula & Norton

Travel Photographer and her Trusty Defender ‘Norton’

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32

contents.

Bearmach Gets You There

74

Trek Overland

100

84 94

Mobile Storage Solutions

Abenteuer & Allrad DIGITAL

104 Nakatanenga Tailgate Storage

Respecting the Environment

110

Latest Gear The latest camping gear

7

Winter BBQ

240+ Wild

Petromax Camping

126

pages Full of

outdoor lifestyle

Petromax Firebox

136 148

Defender Parts Offroad Monkeys

160 Touring Poland

154 184 12V Battery Box euro4x4parts

contents.

How to take a DARCHE DumpHutch in the Swag wild

CAMPWERK Tent Trailers

190

40 198

New Snorkels Expedition Bravo Snorkel Preparation APB Trading Ltd.

212

206

222

Funki Adventures Van Build Part 2

TURAS Podcast

& g n i p m Ca r a e G D 4W Every month we bring you the latest and greatest camping and 4WD gear and accessories

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A. DARCHE Eclipse Retreat Annex The versatile Eclipse Retreat Annex suspends from your DARCHE 180° or 270° awning and lets you easily convert your awning into:an additional shelter, dining room, additional sleeping quarters for 2 to 4 people, storage area B

B. Petromax Fire Barbecue Grill tg3 This BBQ is manufactured from highquality cast iron and can be lighted with C charcoal and barbecue briquettes. The height adjustable grilling grate, the large air supply control and the carrying handle make it not only a compelling grill, but also a cooking area for Petromax Dutch Ovens C. The DARCHE SWAG HUTCH® Adds an additional storage solution to your DARCHE Swag and keeps your gear dry and sheltered. The DARCHE HUTCH® can be attached to your swag or can be setup as a free standing unit.

F. Nakatanenga Tailgate Organizer - rear door trim system Where to store all of your gear in your vehicle, a First aid kit, multimeter, work gloves, winch operation, tire repair kit etc? All of this needs to be stowed away. This tailgate organiser makes use of the mostly unused space on the rear door. In several pockets attached with MOLLE attachment system you can store all these bits and pieces which then readily at hand when required.

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E

D

E. Petromax Firebox fb2 The Petromax Firebox is easy to assemble and to take apart, and accessories can easily be packed along with it. It is robust and does not become even at high temperatures. It is an ecofriendly and safe variant of the traditional campfire, as the fire burns in a separate fire tray and leaves no burnt patch behind.

D. Mobile Storage Systems Cubby Box The Puma Cubby Box is full of clever storage solutions. Although designed for Puma models, this Cubby Box will also fit in pre 2007 models including Series vehicles. Although designed for Puma models, this Cubby Box will also fit in pre 2007 models including Series vehicles..

Touring e n O t Par

The

BUILD

Like most Land Rover owners, I have always enjoyed a sense of adventure and a real desire to get out and about as often and as far away and as I can in my Defender.

Sometimes in order to experience unique and adventurous excursions you do have to take your vehicle a bit further afield. With that said, over the last eighteen years , I have been fortunate enough to have negotiated bogs, green lanes, rainforests, deserts, beaches, boreen roads, mountain ranges and glaciers in my standard 2002 Land Rover Defender 90.

I bought my vehicle second hand; it was just two years old when I purchased it. With just 17,000km on the clock, she looked as good as new. She now has nearly 180,000km on the clock with a big proportion of them taking me to some incredible places. During her relatively short life by Land Rover standards, I have been lucky enough to have taken my short wheel base around Ireland on several occasions, through the beautiful

THE 90’S FIRST TASTE OF THE DIRT

18 YEARS EXPLORING TIME FOR SOME WELL EARNED TLC

The Landy certainly worked hard during its time in Australia and managed to do (mostly flawlessly) what it was built for.

Beacons in Wales, to the base of Ben Nevis in Scotland, around the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic, to Italy, Switzerland, France, over the volcanic ranges and glaciers of Iceland and through the deserts, rainforests, and remote outback of that big dusty rock, Australia. When I moved to Australia, I shipped out my Defender and spent a couple of years working for a number of magazines as a freelance photojournalist including 4x4 Australia which in my view is one of the best 4WD magazines out there.

While working for 4x4 Australia I would often embark on big trips out into the outback and camping wild in some incredible locations, while compiling travel stories for the magazine. The Landy certainly worked hard during its time in Australia and managed to do mostly flawlessly what it was built for. One thing is for sure and that is that I would not have been able to get to some of the remote areas and tackle many of the harsh environments and tracks had I not been traveling in a 4WD.

**llox another gearbox needed shhhh.... don’t tell the wife.....

2002-2020

Since I first purchased the 90 back in 2003, it was my first 4WD and it was the start of a very interesting journey. Over the years I have listened to seasoned tourers, learned from many mistakes while working towards building a vehicle up as a tourer as opposed to an off road weapon. As a day to day vehicle my Land Rover has had to bring me to work,ferry the kids from place to place, do the shopping, and all the other day to day functions our primary vehicles have to carry out.

Thankfully it has mechanically served me relatively well over the last eighteen years,though, as most Land Rovers owners know, they do cause their fair share of problems and if I said I didn’t encounter any along the way, well that would be telling

D L I U B E TH

1 E D O S EPI o e d i v

a lie. With a couple of issues with the gearbox, the clutch and some other niggly bits and bobs, my Landy has hobbled home on more than one occasion but thankfully it never left me stranded in the middle of nowhere, though it did come close.

The next chapter

There comes a time for many of us who have owned a vehicle for a long time, in my case eighteen years, when you are faced with the dilemma of whether you want to keep your pride and joy going or move on and upgrade it to something just a bit more modern . For me over the years I have developed more than just a bond with my Landy, and it’s fair to say that I probably have ten times more photos of it than the missus, so in all truth I was

never going to be faced with the difficult decision of moving it on. I guess deep down I always knew that my Land Rover would hopefully see me out. But I also knew particularly in recent years that it was getting a bit shook and tired looking and that unless I gave it some serious TLC her days would be numbered.

The decision was made,the 90 was going to be rebuilt and upgraded into what hopefully would incorporate a number of practical additions that would evolve into the perfect touring and camping set up. After contacting a number of our partners we had a huge response all of whom were willing to offer advice and be part of this new build.

The objective here was not just to upgrade the vehicle and give it a face-lift but also to try and salvage what we can. We are delighted to be

Tackling the tracks in the Flinders Ranges

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THE DECISION WAS MADE THE 90 WAS GOING TO BE REBUILT

working with some of the best companies in the business on the build that include, DARCHE, Bearmach, Cooper Tires, Mobile Storage Systems, Nakatanenga, Dinitrol, Raptor (U-PolL), Euro 4x4parts, Eezi Awn, APB, Nokian Tyres and the UK based Mobile Storage Systems.

Over the next nine months we are going to be documenting the works on the 90, and we will share with you our progress on this exciting build.

This build when finished will bring new life to our Land Rover Defender 90 and ensure that it is prepared and ready for the next twenty years of adventures.

She now needs a bit of TLC

SPONSORS

We are delighted to be working with some of the best in the business on this build.

We will be reclaiming as much as we can but will also be adding some awesome new products that might give you some ideas.

One thing for sure is that the Landy loves tackling the dirt...

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wning designs for touring vehicles continue to evolve and now provide various options depending on your requirements.They have become a key piece of touring equipment for 4WD campers all over the world.They are simple to attach to your vehicle, all you need is either a roof rack or roof bars with attaching mounts and when fitted you will have easy access to instant shelter from both the sun and the rain. As product designers and manufacturers continue to compete in this evolving market

we have seen some awesome designs enter the market in the last few years. With awnings like the DARCHE Eclipse range , these high quality awnings offer the option to add extended side walls and this has opened up a whole new world for 4WD campers when it comes to increasing your shelter footprint at your camp.

With 30 years of innovation under its belt, DARCHE has once again ticked all the boxes and has brought another innovative new concept to the Eclipse range of awnings which has

WITH 30 YEARS OF INNOVATION UNDER ITS BELT, DARCHE HAS ONCE AGAIN TICKED ALL THE BOXES

e h t n ere o k clicideo h v

t u o b a k walvideo

just catapulted things to a whole new level. Recently released is the all new DARCHE Eclipse Retreat Annex.

The versatile Eclipse Retreat Annex simply suspends from your DARCHE 180° or 270° awning and lets you easily convert your awning into an additional shelter that can be used as a dining room, for storage or as a protected quarters that can easily sleep up to four people. The Retreat’s clever design is integrated with the Eclipse 180 and 270 awning walls giving a whole new dimension to your set up. For awnings manufactured before November 2020, attaching the Retreat requires drilling two small holes into the awning arms and that’s it.

The Retreat comes with 4 generous side ‘D’ doors with mesh and a vehicle access door. By rolling up all openings you can quickly convert this space to a generous mesh enclosed room . The clever yet simple design allows you to use the Retreat in conjunction with the Eclipse awning walls giving you extra protection. You can also use the large front roll up door and this can double up as an awning . Made from a 210 Denier ripstop Polyester Oxford fabric, it also comes with a durable removable 600gsm welded PVC bucket floor, pegs and a carry bag included.Like all DARCHE products this is premium quality and comes with a three year warranty. For more information on the Retreat Eclipse Annex, click here.

THE ULTIMATE ACCESSORY FOR

YOUR DARCHE 180°OR 270°

AWNING

KEY FETURES • Flexibility to roll up all openings to create cross ventilated room • 4 generous side ‘D’ doors with mesh.

• Panoramic views when front and side doors are open.

• Mesh on 3 sides to restrict insects and bugs.

• Adjustable straps on the floor allow for variable height set-ups • Generous internal storage • pockets.

• 2 x Power access slots.

• Rear zip door allows easy access to side vehicle.

• Can be used in conjunction with the existing Eclipse awning walls (sold separately).

• Large front roll up door can double as an awning (poles sold separately).

• 210 Denier Ripstop Polyester Oxford fabric.

• Removable 600gsm welded PVC bucket floor helps prevents moisture ingress.

• Pegs and carry bag included.

• Australian Registered Design: 202013561.

• 3 year warrantY.

a g n i k a t

DUMP in the D L I W

S

ince Covid -19 entered our world we have all seen a significant increase in the number of people going camping for the first time, particularly over the summer and it looks like this trend will continue into 2021.

Now don’t get me wrong, it is great to see so many people try this pastime that we all love out for the first time though it is unfortunate that this unprecedented increase in first time campers has brought with it many issues.

The down side to this surge in interest has been the increase in litter and dare I say it human waste being left behind. It’s such a bugbear for us, and we just don’t understand why some people (in truth the minority) don’t adhere to the basic leave no trace principles, and mess things up for us all. Not the most attractive subject to tackle but we feel it’s worth touching on given the increase in the sheer numbers of people camping and the issues that this is presenting not just in Europe but also all over the world.

The vast majority of us who love camping with our 4WD vehicles are mostly prepared when it comes to taking a crap in the great outdoors.

But unfortunately it is the few who give everyone a bad name for not taking the basic steps to do it the right

WHY DO PEOPLE LEAVE A MESS LIKE THIS ?

PACK A CRAP KIT

way and protect the local environment.There is nothing worse than finding a great remote campsite and then spotting a piece of toilet paper blowing around the place, for no apparent reason other that total laziness from the campers who were camping there before you arrived. Truth is if we don’t start taking this seriously and leaving these places without any trace, they will eventually be closed off to us all. If everyone just followed the basic steps and left no trace well all of this would not be such an issue.

when nature calls.

The basic steps are simple:

1. Choose your spot to unload and make sure it is at least 50-60meters (200 ft) away from any water courses. It’s pretty obvious it also needs to be a good bit away from your campsite.

2. Dig a hole as deep as possible, minimum 30cm, but go as deep as you can, you don’t want animals easily digging up your hole...the hole in the ground that is.

3. Use a small foldable shovel, this will help with the digging Here are some suggestions for and filling in the hole after you those of you who are not sure do your business, you really what to do in the great outdoors should not need to use the shov-

BURN IT e h t n o e r k e c i h cl ideo v

el to put your crap into the hole, your aim might be a bit off at first but it will improve the more you practice hovering.The shovel can also be used should you be afraid of falling over when squatting.

4. When you are finished and before filling in the hole in the ground hole, try and burn your used toilet paper. Another option is putting your toilet roll in a paper bag and then burn it in the hole, this makes it easier to burn.

So why burn the loo roll you may ask?, well by doing so it means that the paper does not have to break down and also animals are less likely to dig it up, therefore preventing your loo roll from blowing around the place. Never use baby wipes to wipe your ass; everything you use should be biodegradable.

5, When finished cover over your hole with the broken clay and smooth out with your hand shovel.

It really is all about minimising impact where possible. You should be trying to leave your chosen spot in the same way that you found it.

READY TO GO PACK Have a ready to go toilet pack that is easily accessible should you need it in a hurry. This should include ; a travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer, more toilet paper that you plan to use, nothing worse than running out and having to go look for leaves. It is also recommended to get in the habit of bringing a lighter to burn your toilet paper.

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THE FIRST WINTER TYRE WAS INVENTED IN FINLAND IN THE 1930’S

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WINTER tyres

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s we start to enter the winter months here in the northern hemisphere, drivers in many countries are currently swapping the tyres on their vehicles for winter tyres. And when it comes to winter driving in Europe , safety on the road often depends on the safety of the tyres. According to a recent survey over 60 % of drivers in Central Europe said specialised winter tyres are the most important car safety equipment during winter.

According to the same survey, for 70% of respondents the most valued quality for these tyres is grip and handling in winter conditions. The second most valued characteristic is safety in extreme situations like on a snowy road, with 47 % of respondents agreeing.

The wet European winters are also visible in the survey answers: the third most valued winter tyre characteristic is grip on slushy roads, which is followed closely by grip on wet roads. And one of the most feared conditions for European drivers is slushy roads. The combination of melting snow, the water cushion at the road surface, and potential ice is dangerous even

for an experienced driver. Nokian Tyres is recognised internationally for the superior quality of its winter tyres which perform very well in all of the above types of road conditions and It is a well known fact, internationally, that this Finnish company was the first to invent the winter tyre amongst many other significant innovations. It is also interesting to note that Nokian Tyres has more winter tyre patents than any other manufacturer in the world. In addition, Nokian Tyres was the first tyre manufacturer with its own permanent winter tyre testing facility and has the largest of any such facilities which is located on a 700 hectares state of the art testing

centre in Ivalo in Finnish Lapland.

The team at TURAS are delighted to announce that we have teamed up with Nokian Tyres as a key brand partner with the TURAS Camping and 4WD Touring Magazine. We have always admired how Nokian Tyres has taken sustainable manufacturing very seriously by producing not only some of the best tyres on the planet but also some of the most environmentally friendly products. This is a company that makes tyres for people who value both safety and sustainability.

HISTORY

The company traces its history to a groundwood pulp mill established in 1898. Car tyre production began in 1932 by Suomen Gummitehdas Oy (Finnish Rubber Works Ltd) and around this time Nokian Tyres developed the “Kelirengas”, (which translates directly to ‘weather tyre’ ) which was effectively the first tyre that offered a rough tread that could climb up the snowiest of tracks and roads in Finland. Introduced in 1934, this first winter tyre was a game changer for Nordic inhabitants who experience harsh Scandinavian winters. The Kelirengas was initially developed for trucks allowing them to travel in thick snow. The revolutionary transverse tread pattern of the tyre dug into the snow like a track, which made climbing snowy uphills a lot easier. Two years later, the company manufactured the first Hakkapeliitta winter tyre, which opened the door for growth and the international market. Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta has since been the leading winter tyre brand for over 80 years.

Although the first winter tyre, the ‘Kelirengas’ was a unique product for its time, it is only a winter tyre by modern standards in terms of its tread pattern. The Kelirengas used a similar, very rigid rubber compound as the summer tyres, which means that the grip solely depended on the grooves. Nowadays, rubber compounds that have been specially tailored for the tread provide a substantial part of the grip. And whereas over one hundred raw materials are used in the manufacturing of a modern non-studded winter tyre, the Kelirengas only used one third of them.

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CAR TYRE PRODUCTION BEGAN IN 1932

he t n o here k c i l c ideo v

Nowadays, non-studded winter tyres use both natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber works stably along a wide temperature range, allowing the tread compound to remain flexible and maintain good grip. The proportion of carbon black in the tyre has been replaced by silica, which significantly improves the fuel efficiency and wet grip of the tyre.

Nokian Tyres continues to evolve its research in the design and constitution of its winter tyres and remains the market leader and most prominent innovator in this field.

Nokian Tyres products are now sold in over sixty countries for passenger cars, SUVs, agricultural vehicles , vans and 4WD vehicles. The company concentrates on the consumer car and vehicle tyre replacement and premium snow tyre markets; they do not supply automobile manufacturers tyres for new car production.

4WD Touring and Overlanding

A couple of notable Nokian Tyres’ products that are particularly suitable for use in 4WD Touring and overlanding, and which should be of interest to our readers are the Nokian Rotiiva All Terrain and the Nokian Rockproof tyres.

The Rotiiva AT (All Terrain) is a summer tyre that performs excellently on asphalt, but it can also be used for light offroad driving, and it is durable and hard wearing even on heavier vehicles.The sidewall compound used in the tyre is exceptionally durable and puncture-resistant and contains extremely strong aramid fibres. The same material is utilised by the aerospace and defence industries. The aramid fibre strengthens the sidewall rubber to withstand external impacts and pressing against the wheel flange. Additionally, stabilisers on the centre rib stiffen the tyre on road contact, allowing it to perform more smoothly and fluently.

We currently have these tyres on the TURAS vehicles and we are enjoying the ride. We will be taking a closer look at these tyres in upcoming issues.

he t n o re cliicdkeo he v

The Nokian Tyres Rotiiva All Terrain

The Nokian Tyres Rockproof

The Nokian Tyres Rockproof is a relatively new product from Nokian Tyres, this rugged looking tyre offers extreme durability for professional driving and for off-road enthusiasts. The new cut-resistant Nokian Rockproof Hybrid tread compound and aggressive tread pattern provide the tyre with excellent resistance even in rough off-road conditions. The Nokian Rockproof was designed for light trucks, SUVs and off-road use.

It was developed in cooperation with Nokian Heavy Tyres and tested by professionals at mines and quarries in Europe and North America, we will also be having a closer look at the eye catching Rockproofs in future issues of the magazine.

As we mentioned above we are delighted to welcome such a progressive, sustainable and important company as Nokian Tyres to our magazine as a brand partner.

We look forward to becoming even more familiar with Nokian Tyres the company, and its range of tyres over the coming months, and we look forward to sharing our adventures driving with these great tyres.

NOKIAN CHECK OUT THE LIST OF WINTER/ALL-SEASON TYRES SUITABLE FOR VANS & SUV’S IN THE UK & IN CENTRAL EUROPE

• Nokian • Nokian • Nokian • Nokian

Tyres Tyres Tyres Tyres

WR C3 WR SUV 4 Seasonproof SUV. Weatherproof

N TYRES

The extreme conditions of the Nordic winter requires special equipment, and Nokian Tyres , the winter tyre specialists and Arctic Trucks, an Icelandic company that specialises in the conversion of 4WD vehicles to extreme weather conditions, have both teamed up several times in their history. The latest result of this important ongoing partnership between these two snow and ice experts is the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 44 winter tyre.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 44 is the beginning of a completely new chapter in the cooperation between the two winter conditions specialists. The tyre is available in the size LT475/70 Rl7, and is

especially designed for Arctic Trucks’ heavy SUV-type 4x4 vehicles.

The origin of Arctic Trucks can be traced back to 1990 when Toyota in Iceland started modifying 4x4 utility and sport utility vehicles. Today Arctic Trucks are the leading professionals, specialising in conversions of various 4WD vehicles.) In issue 18 we will be catching up with Artic Trucks to delve more into their awesome 4WD vehicles.In issue 18 we will be chatting to the founders of Arctic Trucks and covering their awesome achievements.

FINLAND everyman’s right

Located in northern Europe, Finland borders Sweden, Norway and Russia.

Its capital, Helsinki, occupies a peninsula and surrounding islands in the Baltic Sea. The Northern Lights can be seen from the country’s Arctic Lapland province, a vast wilderness with some spectacular national parks.

Finland is, without a doubt, a beautiful country and it is also interesting to note that everyone has the right to roam Finland’s forests and countryside freely, no matter who owns the land, thanks to a legal concept, unique to the Nordic countries, known as Everyman’s Right.

The fundamental idea behind Everyman’s Right is to enable everyone to freely enjoy outdoor activities that have always been popular in Finland, like walking and skiing in the forest, boating, swimming, and picking mushrooms and berries.

IN ISSUE 18 WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT WHAT FINLAND HAS TO OFFER

N O T R O N ’ A L U PA ’ Y D N A L THE E M O S E W A E M & SO

Y H P A R G O T O PH catches In this article Paul from TURAS aumont up with Photographer Paula Be ver Deand her go any where Land Ro fender named ‘Norton’.

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One of the things I’ve always loved to do on my wild camping trips is photography. I’m forever trying to capture some of the great views and moments from a trip for posterity. Unfortunately, capturing the moment accurately is often trickier to achieve than you’d think even with today’s modern equipment.

However, someone who manages this with ease and who I’ve long admired and enjoyed following on Instagram is Paula Beaumont. From her base up in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales in the UK and together with her

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trusty 1989 Land Rover 90, ‘Norton’, she effortlessly combines her love of wild camping with a talent for taking some incredible and award-winning photographs.

The other week I was lucky enough to finally catch up with Paula, albeit via Zoom due to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions here to find out how she’s managed to combine what would be for many of us a dream job, combining wild camping trips to beautiful remote places with photography.

NORTON IS A1989 LAND ROVER 90 WHICH I’VE OWNED FOR THE PAST 5 YEARS AND HE’S NEVER LET ME DOWN

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Check out Paula’s website by clicking here here

So Paula, which came first, wild camping, Land Rovers or photography?

Well it would have to be camping as I’ve been doing that since I was 4 years old. When I was child my Dad bought an old bread van, fitted it out with old army camp beds and other homemade camping gear and then together with my Mum we’d head off on various camping adventures across Scotland, I’ve loved the outdoors and camping ever since.

And when did you start to combine camping with photography?

Both my parents were photographers, so it was something that I grew up with and was able to learn from them although I never thought I’d be able to make any sort of living from my outdoor landscape work. Initially I did weddings and specialised in baby photography but then over time started to build up a portfolio of landscape shots that I found sold well at local craft fairs and via my website. Eventually I’ve managed to make the transition to almost full-time landscape photographer interspersed with a few weddings and baby photography sessions each year as well as running my studio and photography courses.There’s no doubt the whole wild camping scene is growing in popularity, accelerated even more by the recent pandemic and people keen to get away from it all.

WILD l u f r e n o w &

Paula has in recent years pretty much transitioned to being a full-time landscape photographer interspersed with a few weddings and baby photography sessions.

I’m lucky to live where I do surrounded by the Dales so get out in Norton plenty during the week, however, wild camping in England is more tricky with laws forbidding it in many places, so I tend to head to Scotland where my Mum now lives, and then do bigger trips abroad in Europe with my travel buddy Susan. This past year I think I’ve managed about 60 nights in the rooftop tent. My Mum’s now 74 years old and she

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still wild camps up on Isle of Skye where she lives, I swear she’s still more hardy than I’ll ever be!

Norton? I assume this is the name you’ve given your Land Rover 90? Unusual name, where did that originate from and what sort of truck is it?

Well, my Dad’s name was Stanton Norton Farnaby, not your average Yorkshire name I know, and he loved old cars and camping so I named it after him so every time I take a trip I feel like he comes with me. As for Norton the Landy,

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How often do you try to get away yourself in an average year?

THIS PAST YEAR I THINK I’VE MANAGED ABOUT 60 NIGHTS IN THE ROOFTOP TENT

what to do and ended up slowly reversing out! After that I realised, I needed a proper lesson on how to drive it and booked myself on a two-day intensive course which really taught me what it was capable They’re amazing vehicles alof and how to drive it properly. It’s something I’d encourage everyright, did you learn to drive it properly or have you just learnt one to do as the lessons learnt are invaluable and give you the confrom trial and error?

Well the day after I got Norton I fidence to make trips afterwards much more fun and relaxed. headed up a green lane to Scarhouse Resevoir near where I live and it was first time I’d used low range. 200 yards up I got scared stiff so stopped and lit the Kelly Kettle for a brew whilst I decided he’s a 1989 Land Rover 90 which I’ve proudly owned for the past 5 years and he’s never let me down once and believe me, I do a lot of harsh off-roading in him.

NORTON IS PRETTY WELL

KITTED OUT

So, what’s your favourite ‘toy’ you’ve fitted Norton out with and if you could add any new bit of kit what would it be?

Well he’s pretty well kitted out with a great draw system for all my camping gear, Tentbox roof tent, ARB awning with side walls etc. but I’d say my favourite bit of kit is my 55 litre Snowmaster fridge freezer which is great for keeping ice cold for a nice Gin & Tonic by the camp fire after a busy day’s on the trails. I’ve also recently fitted a diesel heater that sits behind the seat and can be pulled up into the tent which will make the winter camps much more comfortable although it’s yet to be used but looking forward to a lack of ice on the inside of the tent in the mornings. As for a wish list for new kit, to be honest there’s nothing to be honest, I’m lucky enough to have all need right now.Sounds fabulous, I have to say the diesel heater would have been welcome on one of our TURAS trips in S. Ireland last winter - never felt cold like it, don’t think I felt my feet for a couple of days.

So where have you and Norton been?

Well I’m always out and about locally in Yorkshire Dales and love Swaledale area and it’s rolling green hills full of green lanes, and no phone signal. I also do plenty of trips up and around Scotland which is spectacular and there’s not many spots along the NC500 I’ve not stopped along at some point or another. But over the last few years myself and my travel buddy, Susan, from Netherlands have been Bosnia, Croatia, Portugal, Spain, France and more.

and start adventuring together?

Well my husband’s an ex-Royal Marine so to be honest he’s had his fill of sleeping out in the wild but fully encourages me to get out there. Through my membership of the LR Ladies group and posting some photo’s on there, Susan used to comment how awesome the photos were and she’d love to see it. So, I invited her over and we did a 6 day laning trip through the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District and we just clicked as two like-minded souls and we’ve been heading off on adventures a few times a Ah OK, so Susan is the other year ever since.

lady Land Rover 90 owner I’ve seen in some of your shots, how did you meet

That’s great, and have you a favourite spot that you’ve found on your travels?

Back in 2018 when we were in Pico’s De Europe, a fabulous National Park area in Northern Spain, we travelled mile upon mile along fabulous gravel tracks. By pure fate I got a puncture and we managed to get to a garage to get it repaired.

We’ve got a photograph from that trip here and it does look incredible. Indeed, so many of your photograph’s are stunning Paula and you’ve won so many awards I’m sure it’s impossible to pick a favourite, but do you have one you’re most proud of?

It would probably be the picture of the sheep taken in Scotland last year.

The owner was himself an off-roader and gave us directions to a spot he recommended. We followed his route to around 2000m where we camped overlooking the mountains! It was just incredible.

We then left the Landy’s and hiked another couple of kilometres up to this amazing place from where the views were just breath-taking and there were vultures circling over-head. Definitely the most memorable spot I’ve ever been to so far, and if it wasn’t for the misfortune of the puncture we’d never have found out about it.

It was a completely off the cuff shot taken when driving a mountain trail over the Cairngorms in Scotland. I pulled over and the sheep were following us, I guess they see a Land Rover and assume it’s the farmer come to feed them.

Suddenly they just all lined up and the sky was amazing above them and I managed to capture this great shot which ended up being placed in the Top 10 from over 13,500 entrants in the Image of the Year competition which was a really proud achievement.

What type of camera/ equipment do you tend to use?

I use a Canon 5D MkIII with a wide-angle lens and another 5DIII with a telephoto lens most of the time.

And for us mere mortals trying to capture a decent shot from our own travels have you any top tip you can share with us to improve our results?

To be honest the best tip is to remember the rule of thirds.

This is basically to compose your shots into 1/3’s both vertically and horizontally and always try to get your point of interest into either the left or the right-hand side third, not in the middle. Also, light is hugely important. You’ll always get the best shots in either the early morning or evening sun, it produces much more drama whereas the mid-day sun just flattens everything out, I don’t even bother taking my camera out in the middle part of a day.

Well Paula, it’s been a pleasure talking to you, you’re photography is an inspiration to us all and the fact that yourself and

Susan are out there doing all these adventures as two ladies together is great to see too as it can sometimes be a bit intimidating to head out there alone when you’re just starting out.

Would you have any advice to others thinking about taking the plunge and heading off on their first proper wild camping adventure?

Just Do it! Honestly, in the 4 years myself and Susan have been travelling all across Europe we’ve met nothing but encouragement and kindness from everyone we’ve met along the way. Just always be courteous, make sure to always check it’s ok to wild camp if you’re somewhere you don’t know and remember to leave no trace and you’ll make so many friends and make memories to last you a lifetime, and take some great photo’s along the way to remind you too hopefully.

To see many more of Paula’s fabulous photograph’s and be able to purchase any favourites please check out her website at: www.paulabeaumontadventures. co.uk or see her on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/

K C A B & E R E H T U O Y S GET

B

earmach has a long history as the market leader for the supply of parts suitable for Land Rover vehicles.

And the Bearmach name and brand will no doubt be familiar to most Land Rover owners, as a provider of a wide range of top quality parts and accessories suitable for Land Rovers. But not as many people might be as familiar with the history and evolution of the company.

Founded in 1958 as a family business, initially with three staff members, Bearmach quickly established an export market for bearings and machinery spare parts (initially to Turkey).

In 1966 the growing company moved to a larger premises and expanded its market to service customers across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and Turkey. In 1981 it added Africa as a significant customer base and relocated again to a larger premises in Cardiff.

The first ever Bearmach-modified 88 Land Rover vehicle complete with full rollover bar, 2.25 petrol turbo engine, vacuum-operated overdrive, rear spare -wheel carrier, integrated winch and bumper with integrated spotlights was showcased at Automechanika in 2002. The growth of the company continued at pace, and another relocation to an 80,000sq feet facility

H C A M R BEA OU THERE GETS YK & BAC

in Bedwas, Caerphilly in the UK was made in 2003.

In 2005 Bearmach won its first contract with the UK Ministry of Defence. Another expansion took place in 2016 when additional premises were purchased, with an extra 45,000 sq ft added, close to the existing premises in Bedwas, Caerphilly. As part of the companies global expansion ,in 2016 Bearmach opened an office in China.

Bearmach.com a brand new state of the art website was launched in 2017, giving a whole new high tech experience when browsing for your sought after parts and accessories.With a global reputation Bearmach now deliver a whopping 330,000 parts mothly to over 140 countries world wide. And with this wide reach they have also built a strong community of Land Rover owners and enthusiasts who share there build and travel stories from every corner of the globe.

Some great Bearmach products will feature in our special Land Rover Defender Build Series and you can learn more and browse the online product catalogue at www.bearmach.com Bearmach.com

THE BEARMACH COMMUNITY

BEARMACH DELIVER ON AVERAGE A WHOPPING 330,000 PARTS PER MONTH TO OVER 140 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

SERVICE

With 60 years of experience in exporting parts to over 120 countries a year you can trust Bearmach to deliver your order.Bearmach have partnered with DHL for fast and efficient delivery of your orders with a standard delivery time of 3 days to both US and Australia. (This may vary currently due to the effects of COVID-19).All shipping costs (including any taxes and duties) are calculated live at checkout before you confirm your order. This ensures that order shall be delivered to your door with no hidden extra charges to pay

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or those of you who live in the UK you will be very familiar with Trek Overland.

It started on its journey over twenty years ago when adventure enthusiasts Tim Brennan and his wife, Clare started to build a vehicle for their own expeditions before setting up their hugely successful 4WD accessory businesses Trek Overland and Mobile Storage Systems.

The Trek Overland team initially started to import roof rack tents and developed their business at the picturesque Lund Court Farm, Nawton, near Helmsley in the UK where they also modified and in some cases, completely

rebuilt high spec Land Rover expedition vehicles.Over the years Trek Overland developed an international reputation for building modified vehicles for well known organisations and for famous documentaries including the very well received Long Way Down television series starring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman.They have also worked closely with internationally renowned organisations that include Born Free Foundation and the Land Rover Experience, to name but a few.

In recent years, the focus of the expanding Trek Overland team has evolved into becoming a retailer of high quality 4WD touring equipment which now includes the high quality and very popular Australian DARCHE range of camping and overlanding related products. Trek Overland are the UK’s /British Isles sole importer of DARCHE products, bringing these very much sought after products to the British Isles.

As Clare said ‘’As a family business we have always associated ourselves with high quality products and that’s why they are delighted to be the UK distributors for DARCHE’’.

The Australian range of 4WD touring gear is very well respected as a premium brand down under.Using superior quality materials in all of its outdoor gear range the team at

Trek Overland have built some awesome touring vehicles over the years

‘‘

products. We are big fans of DARCHE here at TURAS, and it is great to see this high quality Australian brand now available in the British Isles as it spreads its wings globally.

Established nearly twenty years ago Mobile Storage Systems has been a market leader in high quality, hand built storage and security products for the Land Rover Defender and Discovery.Mobile Storage Systems offers a wide range of innovative systems that are all finished to a very high stand-

Trek Overland supplies the full range of DARCHE gear

‘‘

DARCHE constantly develop, research and refine new materials and technologies to ensure DARCHE products remain leaders in terms of innovation, quality and durability.Trek Overland now provides the full range of DARCHE products all of which can be viewed on their easy to use website and at their HQ near Helmsley in the UK .If you are a frequent reader of TURAS Camping and 4WD Magazine channels, you will no doubt have seen some photos or videos of our team using or demonstrating some DARCHE

ard. As highlighted by Clare ‘’all of our products provide the strength, durability and practicality that our customers are looking for and we are proud to say that all of our products have been designed and manufactured within the United Kingdom’’.

tems ,and we will be showcasing some of the Mobile Storage Systems in the new TURAS Land Rover Defender build over the coming months so stay tuned for coverage in the next couple of issues of the magazine.

Because of an ever increasing demand, Mobile Storage Systems has extended its range of products to provide quality secure storage and security systems for other makes of 4X4’s.

With an impressive range of products that include Load Area Drawers, storage chests, stack in stow systems , cubby boxes , window guards and much more.

Trek Overland ltd has been built on the back of good old fashioned values shaped out of the atmosphere of a family business. With over 40 years of combined experience Trek Overland has developed into one of the leading and most trusted expedition preparation specialists in the UK, with a passion for all things Land Rover and 4x4, travel and off road.

Here at TURAS we are delighted to partner with both Trek Overland and Mobile Storage Sys-

Mobile Storage Systems designed and manufactured in the UK

‘‘

‘‘

As a family business we have always associated ourselves with high quality products and that’s why we are delighted to be the UK distributors for DARCHE

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO HERE OF CLARE FROM TREK OVERLAND GOING THROUGH THE STEPS TO PREPARING AND ATTACHING YOUR DARCHE ROOF TOP TENT

T

he art of establishing the most efficient storage system in your 4WD can often take years to perfect,and this mostly happens through trial and error . But also by having the right storage equipment /solution built by professionals and slotted into your 4WD,well this can just make life much easier when on the road. Storage in the TURAS Land Rover Defender 90 has always been an issue , short wheelbase vehicles by their nature just lack adequate storage space and so having the correct system in place, makes a huge difference. When we are on the road either camping or doing a photoshoot, having a secure and easy access system that allows us to quickly access our photography and film gear just

makes life so much easier. One of the recent additions to our 90 which is helping to perfect our set up is the Defender / Series Cubby Box (Fully Loaded Version) from the UK based Mobile Storage Systems. First impression on this unit is the quality and the skilled workmanship that has gone into manufacturing the unit.You can also tell from its functionality that the designers were Land Rover tourers /enthusiasts and knew exactly what they were doing.

Although designed for Puma Defender models, this Cubby Box will also fit in pre 2007 models including Series vehicles.

The Cubby Box contains a main lockable storage compartment that is perfect for safely storing smaller cameras and chargers but also for getting access to other types of gear including navigational systems, your glasses, money and so on. The lock installed into this unit is a drill resistant and incorporates an anti burst lock, so if anyone manages to break into your vehicle they best come prepared.

Other features include a lockable radio compartment, a trinket

1 & 2 Remove your old cubby box 3. Step by step instructions are provided with the unit 4. High quality attachments 5. The lockable storage compartment 6. the trinket tray is perfect for storing your glasses, change etc 7.12 V lighter sockets 8.The deep padded armrest is a real luxury.

X O B Y B CUB o vide tray, front and rear cup holders.

One of the real treats on offer is the deep padded armrest available in black vinyl, black cloth and tapestry, for us this is a real luxury that just makes the ride in your land Rover defender that much more comfortable.

All of these features in addition to two 12v Lighter Sockets, and high quality Map Pockets this is a premium storage system

that will last the test of time and probably see you and your Land Rover out. Manufactured in the UK the Cubby Box is a MIG welded with no spot welds hence giving you a stronger and pretty much indestructible cubby box. For more information on this awesome storage solution cubby box click here.

MANUFACTURED IN THE UK & Shipped Worldwide

THE NEW VIRTUAL

TOUR

2021 3-6th June

2021

THE DIGITAL SHOW The 2020 Abenteuer & Allrad show might have been cancelled due to Covid 19 but that does not mean that the energetic team in Germany have not been busy preparing for the 2021 event. Not only do they bring us the world’s premier 4WD touring show but they have also been busy putting together the first Abenteuer & Allrad Digital 3D-animated exhibition center.

With just a click away you will be brought to one of your favorite brands on the easy to navigate interactive digital map.

digital presence can never replace the real time discussions, workshops and walkabouts at the show in Bad Kissingen , but we are convinced that we have created a sustainable and future-oriented solution by using this exciting platform.

This new digital platform is also here to stay and will be further developed into the future and will certainly complement the main trade fair. Well we at TURAS we totally agree, one thing that is for sure is that Thomas and his team continue to innovate and help bring visThe content on this new and itors on a journey on what has innovative platform will continue to be added over the coming become an institution in the 4WD Camping and weeks with videos, news and Touring commudetailed product information on some of your favourite gear. nity not only in The Abenteuer and Allrad organ- Europe but also throughout the iser Thomas Schmitt said that world. “We are of course aware that a

The awesome Nakatanenga NR-Classic 8×16 steel rims that will be going on Defender, just one of the many innovative products from the German touring gurus.

We will be looking at these closer as part of the build.

German based Nakatanenga 4x4 Equipment has been coming up with some awesome innovative and high quality 4WD touring products in recent years.We first caught up with some members of the Nakatanenga team at the Abenteuer and Allrad show in Germany a couple of years ago and we were very impressed with the wide variety of 4WD touring gear on offer. One of the re-

cent products that they have brought to the market includes the NR-Classic – the 8×16 steel rim for the Defender, these classical looking rims come with with the full TÜV approval and just look awesome, these rims are exclusive to Nakatanenga and available in the UK and throughout Europe.We were so impressed with these traditional looking rims that when our initial brainstorm-

E G A R O T S E T A G L I TA o vide

For those of you who don’t drive a Defender and want one for your vehicle, the good news is you can get them for a Suzuki Jimny,Jeep Wrangler JK, Mercedes G and in the following universal sizes 650x250mm and 740x350mm.

ing sessions took place about the TURAS Land Rover build project our team unanimously agreed that these should classic rims should be showcased on the build.

After contacting Peter and his team they were immediately on board with the build project, we will be covering this exciting build project over the next 12 months so do stay tuned. But for now let’s have a look at another simple but very practical storage solution designed by Nakatanenga for various 4WD vehicles including Land Rover Defenders, simply called the Nakatanenga Tailgate Organizer - Rear Door Trim System.

The beauty about this product is in its clever design, it simply allows the bags to be quickly

removed using the MOLLE attachment system,it is a simple but very practical solution.For easy access to your first aid kit, toilet bag and all of those other bits and bobs, all you need to do is grab the bag you need and away you go, and when finished just re attach that’s it!. MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load -carrying Equipment, this system was developed for the US army back in the early 90’s where it focused on improving the physical carrying capacity on backpacks, belts, clothes and so on, thankful this system has now been adapted for outdoor and off road use. Attaching the tailgate organiser PALS base to your rear door is pretty straight forward with the product supplying the screws.

G N I T C E P S

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I V EN

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he pandemic has resulted in a large increase in the numbers of people searching for socially distant activities like hiking, mountain biking and off-road driving. While this is generally a great trend to see, it also has its downsides: individuals or groups who do not respect the trails and open spaces they use. More environmental damage is occurring with trash being left behind, locations being vandalized and environmentally delicate sections of land being trampled upon.

As the trails and outdoor spaces become busier, the roles of 4x4 and offroad clubs and organisations in maintaining trails and educating the 4x4 touring community in sustainable enjoyment of trails around the world has grown.

UK

All Terrain UK is another organisation whose projects include In the UK there are a couple of lane clearances, gate and fence great organisations working to repairs and provision of way keep greenlanes open, clean marking signage. uksafe. europe - andLane useAssorelevant phopts the Funds one atcan be and The Green sought by all members, for any ciation (GLASS) Run by andGlass for the top here is from in thethat UKhelps keep green project green laning enthusiasts, the lanes open and accessible MARK ADD opened RELEVANT IMAGE BASEDfor Green Lane TO Association ALL to use ,and its exclusive its collective knowledge to the ON THE ARTICLE BEING WRITTEN mapping system, SmartTrail, is public back in 1995, making it the longest running 4Ă—4 vehicu- available to all of its members.

Its network of local representlar user group in the UK. These atives regularly arrange famimotivated volunteers also work with local councils, land owners ly friendly meets and provide and authorities to organise and members with local knowledge, fundraise for maintenance work, as well as hosting events such as map reading workshops, sign posting and repairs.

SmartTrail tutorials and green lane awareness days.

wth o r g r e d n u e h t Cutting back sers. u l l a p l e h o t in Wiltshire

Organisations like All Terrain UK and GLASS UK are continually working to protect greenlanes

uk europe - and use relevant phopts the one at the top here is from Glass in the UK MARK TO ADD RELEVANT IMAGE BASED ON THE ARTICLE BEING WRITTEN

AUSTRALIA

The organisation also promotes and encourages love and respect In Australia ‘Unlock Australia’ for shared national resources is a not for profit organisation and educates people in sustainadedicated to opening up public lands and waterways for outdoor ble bush use. recreation, the organisation has Drifta (with whom our readers the position that public land will be familiar) are also running (national parks, state forests, a ‘Respect the Bush’ Campaign stock routes and waterways) and are creating 1000s of rubbelongs to all Australians. And bish bags and giving them to that sustainable and responsiOutback travellers for free. The ble land management should rules they promote are simple achieve a balance between rec2 in 2 out. Take 2 bags in - take reation and conservation.That two out, one with your rubbish free camping areas throughout Australia should be encouraged and one with rubbish you find at and increased for the benefit of camp or on the tracks. all travellers.

Respect the Bush and Unlock Australia are two groups motivated to keep the bush clean

tcher e r t s a n o g a w s a in

So much great work being done around the world by some dedicated 4WD tourers.

USA

In the western US, the vast swathes of land are so big, it’s pretty much impossible for the various land management agencies to stay on top of all aspects of maintaining and preserving by themselves.

work is benefiting hikers, mountain bikers and other groups too - once a trail is open and safe, it is open to all, not just 4x4 or Off Highway Vehicles (OHVs).

As with most movements in the US, the efforts to maintain trails for off road vehicles has become a political fight, with traditionIn Colorado, the United Four al environmentalists working to Wheel Drive Associations Inrestrict vehicle access to many ternational (UFWDA) is actively public land areas. Environmenworking to maintain trails and tal groups do have legitimate keep them open to full-sized motorized vehicles. According to concerns, but from a neutral Jerry Smith, Director of Environ- perspective, it would appear both sides (vehicle groups and mental Affairs for UFWDA, the

environmental groups) loosely want similar outcomes, i.e. well preserved land which can be responsibly used for recreation - but like all things political, each side is caught in their own feedback loop, resulting in a reduced likelihood of collaboration.

However, the off-road groups in Colorado do appear to be genuinely trying to do the right thing. The Grand Mesa Jeep Club (GMJC) have volunteered over 6,000 hours per year for the last few years doing trash pickup, erosion control, brush trimming and obstacle removal on both public roads and on trails. They have opened seven trails that had previously been shut for 25 years, with another 20 trails in the works.

Jerry Smith is presently working with three-BLM Field Offices, two-National Conservation Areas, the US Forest Service, and four County Commissions on expanding the Rim Rocker Trail which is presently an overlanding trail from Montrose, Colorado to Moab, Utah. This totals approximately 165-miles of designated trail.

Working with these organizations, Jerry has mapped extensions of this trail to go from Moab to Fruita/ Grand Junction, Colorado, and then from Fruita/ Grand Junction to Montrose

This club has many members with historic vehicles from original 1948 series 1 to Range Rovers

again. He stated “If we are successful in receiving the designation of these extensions, the Rim Rocker Trail (RR) system will be what I believe to be the second-longest designated Overlanding trail in the US at approximately 565-miles.

I have had enthusiastic responses from all of the entities regarding these extensions, so it’s a matter of the mapping to be on legal routes (we hope).”

“With these extensions, the RR will travel through a wide variety of geologic terrains, have historical sites such as uranium mining, petroglyphs, an arch, a working windmill water well, and an old pioneer cemetery.

All but a 19-mile section of the extensions are Overlanding type roads. The first 19-miles south of Grand Junction are more difficult than many Overlanders may wish to drive,

so we have a by-pass on the highway to go around this area.”

In California, where much of the terrain is desert, a number of groups regularly get together for large scale clean ups. Clean Dezert was founded in 2005 by Adam Filbin and Ray Regno. At the time, they were simply looking to do something positive for the off road community and to help prevent BLM land closures, and give back to the land and volunteers. Now they complete multiple annual clean ups and have raised funding and assistance through the support of local businesses.

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a winter

BARBECUE ith w

Petromax Fire Barbecue Grill tg3 We’re loving the Petromax Fire Barbecue Grill tg3 for its versatility and its compactness.

It’s an oven and grill all in one and works really well with your Dutch Ovens for those of you who can’t live without them.

For its first trial run we decided to use the grill section and here’s what we discovered.

The great thing about the Petromax Fire Barbecue Grill is that it’s pre-treated so all you have to do is clean the grill with hot water before using it for the first time.

and wait for them to redden or prepare them in a chimney starter and add when they are sufficiently hot. Always keep the draft door open.

The Petromax Fire Barbecue Grill retains heat really well so start off with less briquettes that you would use usually and add as you go, if required. You can do this really easily through the flip down door if you need to.

Once you place the grilling grate on the charcoal it heats up pretty quickly. When grilling you close the air supply control and flip down door should be close.

If you need to add more charcoal you can do so with a tongs.

You can either start your charcoal under the charcoal grate

VclIicDkEhOere

D E L L I R G H T I W PORK CHOPSEBABS AND NEW VEGETABLE K POTATOES. This dish took less than 20mins on a preheated grill. We marinated the loin pork chops in a BBQ sauce for a few hours before grilling them. The dish is really simple, just chuck everything on the grill turning when necessary and serve with a dollop of apple sauce and a side of new potatoes.

CHECK OUT THE PETROMAX FIRE BARBECUE GRILL

TG3

Have you seen our first ‘gear special’ dedicated magazine supplement ‘’A Life Outdoors with Darche’’.If you are a frequent reader of the TURAS Camping and 4WD e-Magazine, you will no doubt have seen some photos or videos of our team using or demonstrating some awesome DARCHE products. It goes without saying that we are big fans of DARCHE here at TURAS, this gear magazine takes a closer look at these awesome Camping and 4WD Touring products from DARCHE, you can also check out latest DARCHE vid below.

e h t n o e r k e c i h cl ideo v

CAMPING

WITH YOUR

DOG

Introducing Kobe...our new TURAS team member....Kobe tells us that he loves the great outdoors and he can’t wait to go camping ...I think we are all going to get on just fine...welcome on board Kobe....Camping with Kobe means we have to make some adjustments, and we are learning as we go, we will be sharing our experiences with you over the next few months.

Reset your body

CLOCK

WILD

g n i p m a C

I can’t underestimate the comfort my James Baroud roof tent and associated kit such as my Petromax Atago firepit, KX50 Coolbox and camp kitchen etc give me when I’m normally away camping in my Landy. And there’s not many places my trusty Land Rover 110 can’t get me. However, long before I was lucky enough to own my 4WD vehicle, my love for camping was born out of trips away with like-minded friends, slinging rucksacks on our backs with tents and sleeping bags and heading off into the countryside, normally drawn towards mountains, and relishing the challenge of trekking up to the highest point for the views and sleeping under the stars away from ambient light sources and life in general.

Fortunately, many years later (more than I’d care to count), I still have a close group of like-minded friends who love nights away wild camping in spots even the trusty 110 can’t reach. And so it was in late September

myself and two mates headed up to the stunning landscape of the Lake District in N.W. England with the intention of scaling England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike (3,210ft), and a few nights wild camping miles from anyone else.

These trips really provide the best of both worlds, with the opportunity to not only drive great roads across breath-taking landscape, (this time the infamous Hard Knott Pass), but to also then leave the vehicles behind for a night or two ground tent camping deep into the landscape only reachable by foot.

During the current pandemic the idea of getting away from it all has unsurprisingly sounded appealing to more people than ever, and once free from the confines of the lockdown, many headed out into the countryside with tents and camping gear to ‘wild camp’. Sadly however, many went about it in totally the wrong way and weren’t really ‘wild camping’ but rather just illegally camping in any empty field they could find. Unsurprisingly ugly paper headlines accompanied by even uglier photos of the awful mess and litter left behind by these thoughtless individuals made for painful viewing for those of us who know much better. Their behaviour started to tarnish the term ‘wild camping’ with calls from locals to

OLD

During the current pandemic the idea of getting away from it all has unsurprisingly sounded appealing to more people than ever..

VS NEW

make any sort of wild camping illegal. Indeed, the laws around wild camping already vary greatly from area to area. For instance, in much of England wild camping is illegal without first seeking land owner’s permission, whereas in Scotland thanks to the Land Reform Act 2003 you are free to camp on almost all unenclosed land.

To wild camp respectively no matter where you are though there’s a few simple guidelines that everyone should follow, much of it common sense: • Leave no trace • Camp high on open hills away from tracks and settlements • Try to pitch late in the evening and be packed up and gone early in the morning

• Don’t light open fires, use a proper camping stove for cooking • Don’t use streams or rivers for washing with soaps or detergents • Toileting should be done well away from any water source or path (50m or more) • Bag up and carry out all litter, food scraps etc.

• Don’t remain in the same spot for more than two nights • If you are asked by a landowner to move on, do so courteously with no argument • Maintain the peace and quiet you yourself have gone there to seek by being as quiet as possible during your stay • And just for good measure, worth mentioning again…

LEAVE NO TRACE!

If all those venturing out could simply follow these simple guidelines then this great activity can be enjoyed by many without repercussion, just as myself and my couple of mates did in September.

For those thinking of doing Scafell Pike, I can highly recommend a less trodden route we took. Having left the 4WD in a roadside parking spot between Boot and Cockley Beck, we swapped horse power for trusty leg power and headed deeper and upwards into the more remote reaches of the national park, following the path alongside the meandering River Esk, and eventually camping in a picturesque and remote spot on the banks of the river at around 1,600ft just opposite Sampsons Stones.

After a great night’s camp we then headed up the valley and scaled the steep sides to top Scafell Pike in some of the most stunning weather I think I’ve ever encountered in The Lakes. Then took a looped route back down to the opposite end of the valley in which we’d camped and trekked back alongside the meandering river to our tents. On returning in good time we realised we’d enough daylight left for us to undertake the 3 hour walk back out to our vehicle.

Somewhat comically, my friend Richard’s tent had already decided to pack itself down in the strong winds whilst we were scaling Scafell, much

Maintain the peace and quiet you yourself have gone there to seek by being as quiet as possible during your stay..

Keeping warm by the fire..

ESCAPE TO THE WILD

to Rory and my delight, so we packed down, cleared up and retraced our route back out to our vehicle and drove a short distance to camp that night at the small and uncrowded Eskdale campsite run by The National Trust, handily placed close to the excellent Brook House Inn just up the road where a couple of local beverages were most welcome.

Clearly none of us are undertaking particularly intrepid trips and certainly not of the sort that George Mallory referred to when he uttered his famous words reasoning why he wanted to climb Everest.

But, there are peak’s and areas of natural beauty close enough to us all albeit sometimes out reach of even the best of 4x4’s and getting amongst them are good for the soul, particularly in these pandemic hit times. So follow the guidelines and get out and enjoy it… ‘Because it’s there!’

And be sure to tag us on Instagram @turasadventures with your shots from your trips so we can see where you get to.

PREMIUM PARTS FOR THE LAND ROVER DEFENDER 100% y n a m r e G n i e d a M

E

lsewhere in this issue we have a feature on a new re build of the TURAS Land Rover Defender 90. Working with a number of companies, we will bring this aging 18 year old vehicle back into top condition and ready to take on another 18 years of work and exploration.

Some of the original parts that have not weathered well and are in need of replacement are the hinges and window blocks.

Most Defenders eventually suffer badly damaged or badly rusted hinges, on the doors and bonnets of the vehicles, being the workhorse that it usually is the normal hinges on a Defend-

er are continually under strain and, unfortunately, the original vehicle hinges are not up to the task. Luckily, one of our brand partners, the Offroad Monkeys, headed up by Fabien Muller, specialise in the manufacture of top quality replacement parts for the Land Rover Defender, including hinges and window blocks.

The range of parts available from the Monkeys includes hinges for all of the doors,tailgates, and the bonnet, replacement mirror arms, replacement window frame holder and replacement window frame holders with built in LED lights ( With Offroad Monkey’s new window blocks, 2 powerful low beam headlights with 2 power LEDs (each 8 watts) can be also mounted. The cables are laid

1. Window frame holders 2.

Door hinges 3. Door hinge assembly kit 4. Fuel cap 5. Interior door handle 6.

Bonnet holder 7. Adjustable mirror arms

QUALITY PARTS MACHINED FROM AIRCRAFT GRADE ALUMINIUM

invisibly into the interior without having to drill additional holes), replacement sliding window covers, fuel caps and interior door handles, spacers for raising Chassis, Hardened brake pistons and more.

of the products, and the company’s stated mission is to make an already great vehicle, the Land Rover Defender, even greater.

You can check out the entire range of products on its website at www.offroad-monkeys.de and These parts have all been deyou can also check out our unsigned and built by the team at Offroad Monkeys using superior boxing of the parts which will be materials, are precision built and used on our Land Rover build on page 10 are 100% made in Germany. In addition as a small, agile company with its own manufacturing and engineering capabilities and facilities , the Offroad Monkey can also produce custom parts for its customers. Fabian and the team at Offroad Monkeys pride themselves on the quality

T

he Petromax Firebox fb2 is a great lightweight option to bring along on camping trips. The flat packing box is made from stainless steel and is easy to assemble and take apart, it is very lightweight and comes in its own tough carrying case.

You can put the box together in a couple of minutes with a few simple steps and then safely light a fire which is protected from the wind and also helps to prevent any burnt patches. The grille on top al-

lows you to cook or heat water, or make coffee. We often use the firebox to brew coffee with the Petromax Perkomax coffee percolator.

The precise cuts in the steel serve as expansion joints and also supply the fire with air, the firebox does not become distorted even at very high temperatures.

Some accessories are also available for the firebox, a set of legs which raised the firebox 4cm above the ground, and further helps to avoid burning the ground and also

some oven brackets, these two angled brackets turn the Firebox into an oven the Bracket is also made of stainless steel lifts the fire tray of the Firebox up so that you can bake bread under it. Depending on how the Oven Bracket is hung, the height of the oven, and with that the space for the baking can be adjusted.

Technical Specifications Material: stainless steel Material (Bag): nylon L x W x H (in cm): x x L x W x H w/ packaging (in cm): 22 x 32 x 7 Weight (in g): 2900 Weight with packaging (in g): 3100

TOURING POLAND In this feature on touring Poland Tomek Maj takes us on a tour around Poland and recommends some sights to see and routes to drive. In this article Tomek shares some tips for touring in Poland and also shares two driving routes that provide plenty to see and do.

Words and Images : Tomasz Maj - Land4Travel

The history of Poland spans over a thousand years, from medieval tribes, Christianization and monarchy; through Poland’s Golden Age, expansionism and becoming one of the largest European pow- In Poland we also ers; to its collapse and partitions, have our own two world wars, communism, and Palestine. the restoration of democracy.

The roots of Polish history can be traced to the Iron Age, when the territory of present-day Poland was settled by various tribes including Celts, Scythians, Germanic clans, Sarmatians, Slavs and

Fantastic adventure for“grownups”.

Narrow gauge railway,Białowieza.

Balts. However, it was the West Slavic Lechites, the closest ancestors of ethnic Poles, who established permanent settlements in the Polish lands during the Early Middle Ages.[1] The Lechitic Western Polans, a tribe whose name means “people living in open fields�, dominated the region, and gave Poland which lies in the North-Central European Plain - its name.

In the 18th century, Poland, suffering from anarchy, began to fall into a strong dependence on Russia and then disappeared from the maps of Europe as a result of three partitions. An independent country of Poland did not exist until the 20th century, although its vestigial forms periodically appeared, such as the Duchy of Warsaw, the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand

“

Masuria - a land of a thousand lakes.

Duchy of Poznan. The full rebirth of Poland took place only after World War I, when the Second Polish Republic was established after the collapse of the partitioning nations. It existed until 1939 when the Third Reich and USSR invaded Polish lands and occupied it. It was not until 1944 that Polish People’s Army and the Soviet troops gradually reclaimed the land.

“

After the end of the war, Poland found itself behind the so-called Iron Curtain, and the communists took over the power. In 1952, the nation was renamed to the Polish People’s Republic.

Until 1989, it was governed by a party system in which the leading role was played by the Polish United Workers’ Party. Apart from that party, there were also satellite groups - ZSL and SD. It

ultimately collapsed as a result of a process called later the Autumn of Nations. The parliamentary elections in 1989 initiated the processes of democratization and economic reforms that enabled the Third Republic of Poland to join NATO in 1999, and then the European Union in 2004.

In Poland every region has something interesting to offer. Podlasie – tatar villages and Bialowieza Primeval Forest, Masuria – great lakes, kilometers of gravel roads and german bunker remains, West Pomeranian – a region where the soviet army had their base, where nuclear weapons were stored and lo-

cated there today - the biggest army range in Europe.

Bieszczady is the wildest and the least populated region of Poland. It is a region with a turbulent history and to this day you can find ruined villages and obliterated traces of human presence being reabsorbed by nature. Bieszczady was, and in a way is still a polish “wild west” (even though its in the east).

To the south there is Cracow – which was previously the polish capital,which has two interesting salt mines – Wieliczka and Bochnia and also the tallest polish mountains – the Tatra Mountain Range.

“

The full rebirth of Poland took place only after World War One

“

4x4 Driving in Poland.

4x4 driving in Poland is only allowed on private properties or on designated off-road courses.

You cannot drive in the forests, national parks or mountains. It is possible to use an off-road car on municipal and forest roads -that are made available for car traffic. It is also forbidden to camp outside the designated areas - campsites or forest campsites. This is primarily because when staying overnight “in the wild�, there is generally no information available about who own the property. And camping without permission

You won’t get lost with us.

Somewhere on the road in Poland

exposes travellers to either to a fine/mandate from the forest guards, or to the dissatisfaction of the farmer or the land owner.

Having said all this, there are not many places in Poland where 4x4 drive is actually required and you can reach almost everywhere with an ordinary passenger car. Nevertheless -it is possible to find interesting routes, gravel roads and forgotten municipal roads.

The easiest way to do this is to hire a company that organizes 4x4 trips around Poland or look for a guide from the region that Headquarters of the Red Army until 1992.

Giant sandbox for 4x4stank fields in Borne Sulinowo

Have you ever slept 250m beneath the ground? Now’s your chance! Salt mine in Bochnia you want to visit. The tracks are not generally known,but you can use www.wikiloc.com or www.traseo.pl .There are also the West Pomeranian Off-Road Routes, where several routes have been documented and are available in the form of gpx files. It is important to note that there are also restrictions on these routes - for example, groups of up to 4 cars only can travel across them.

Due to these limitations, 4x4 tourism is not very generally a very popular activity in Poland.

In the times of Covid-19 things changed a bit, and more people are camping, but if going camping, passenger cars are usually enough to get you there.

Many travelers use OsmAND and the Open Street Map project. If you want to travel around Poland by 4x4 legally, you need to arm yourself with a telephone with Internet access, the mBDL app (database on forests), google maps satellite view and a large dose of local knowledge and experience.

North Eastern Poland

of Lake Moj. Then you can drive along the Russian border and For a longer - 12-14 day where the countries of Russia, trip, I would recommend the Lithuania and Poland meet. Tronorth-eastern part of Poland jsk - near Wisztyniec is referred - Masuria and Podlasie. For a short – one week - trip, the areas to as the ‘Polish cold pole’. around Borne Sulinowo, Drawsko Pomorskie or Miedzyrzecki For- Later, using rural roads, you can drive through Athens and see tified Region are ideal. And the the beautiful post-Camaldolese weekend - in the place where I monastery at the Wigry Lake. Its grew up - Kashubia. tower offers a wonderful view of the lake and its surroundings.

The first stop is Gierloz, where your guide can show you around An interesting fact for anglers is that the Wigry Lake is one of the the Wolf’s Lair so you can go back in time for a few hours and two Polish lakes where whitefish spawns. In addition, in the Wigry reconstruct the course of the National Park you can ride a Hitler’s assassination attempt charming narrow-gauge railway. together. The guide will take you to places where ordinary tourists do not go. If you talk to The next day, in the Biebrza Nathe guide, they might allow you tional Park, you can rent a raft to spend the night on the shores on the Biebrza River and organFrom dusk till dawn, it’s almost a pity one’s gotta go to sleep..

a large cultural and religious diversity of its inhabitants. When visiting a mosque or a mizar - the After an intense day on the raft, I Tatar cemetery, for a moment you can feel as if you were in our recommend going along the picturesque route among the Biebrza favorite Central Asia.

National Park, from which you After visiting Kruszyniany and can reach viewpoints and foottasting Tatar cuisine, head south. bridges. The name comes from the road that connected the former Russian (tsarist) fortresses - defensive towns. It starts in Osowiec and runs south. Today, the “Tsar’s Road” is alternatively called “Losiostrada” (moose highway) – you will find out why when you drive on it. ize a barbecue feast on it. A river raft can be rented in Kopytkowo.

Going east, through Tykocin (the castle and Jewish synagogues) and Czeremchowa Tryba, you will reach Kruszyniany, a village located on the Tatar route.

Kruszyniany is characterized by

Our girls can handle their own obstacles

Split pea soup, sauerkraut and pork schnitzel are just some of the traditional meals you have to try on the road.

Through legal, forest roads you will reach the magical place of Bialowieza. It is a region that has its own unique charm. This is where you will be able to recharge your batteries by visiting the Place of Power.

there you will go along asphalt roads to the place from which you started your expedition Gierloz. On the way you will also see footbridges over the Narew and the estuary of the Biebrza to the Narew.

Follow the Zebra Zubra (bison’s ribs) educational trail - the first forest nature trail in Poland, established in the 70s. The trail is quite long, about 4 km long, and ends near the Bison Show Reserve. The animals in the Reserve are in semi-natural conditions, in large farms covered with natural vegetation.

If you have a moment and you feel like it, organize a short history lesson. You will be passing through Wizna - “Polish Thermopylae”, where on September 7-10, 1939, a battle was fought, where 700 Polish defenders under the command of the KOP captain Wladyslaw Raginis faced the German forces of General Heinz Guderian.

The Bison Show Reserve is the last place on our route, from

Borne Sulinowo Route

local guide who knows the area The shorter of the routes- Borne best and will be able to get all the necessary permits. AnothSulinowo - Drawsko Pomorsker option is to use one of the ie is a trip through the forests ready-made 4x4 routes available where the remains of Soviet on the Internet. There are also a troops are hidden - bunkers, few attractions waiting for you nuclear silos, abandoned cities and the largest military training in Borny Sulinowo - you can ride a T-72 tank there, ride / swim in ground in Europe. We start the an amphibious vehicle or drive expedition in Borny Sulinowo your own car onto a real tank - a city that has only been on field. The routes around Borne the maps since the 90s. If you Sulinowo are about 400 km want to see the most interesting places - we suggest using a long, some of them are difficult.

A local guide can take you on a

Home is where you park it..

very difficult route. You have to reserve 4-5 days to drive each of the routes. “Wild� camping in Poland is not legal. Sleeping in the forest is possible only in designated places. With the consent of the public forest managers, you can sleep in an agreed place. If the forest is private, the consent of the forest manager is not needed, but the consent of the forest owner is needed. Similarly

- driving into the forest - is also not possible. The general rule is that you must not enter the forests. However,there are exceptions to this rule - for example - access to a village in the middle of a forest or a road marked with a sign - “udostepniona do ruchu kolowego�.

About LAND4TRAVEL

We are a group of friends fascinated by travel. With our trips, we want to spark the desire to see new places and curiosity about the world. We drive away from the usual tourist routes.

Our passion is adventure-like travel and we want to share this passion with people who travel Many regions in Poland have with us. We will not take you to prepared campsites and there the beaches of Hurghada, but are a lot of them. Each of them with us you will see the Caucahas their own regulations that sus Mountains, shipwrecks in outline what is allowed and the Aral Sea or penguins on the what is not. Most often a curshores of Patagonia. Land4travfew is in place and bonfires are el is not a tourist office. It is a not allowed unless they are in a project for those who want to designated area. Again, this rule get in contact with nature, lodoes not apply to wild camping cal culture, and want to feel the sites - managed by private indi- atmosphere of the Camel Troviduals. phy while traveling in legendary Land Rover Discovery SUVs. In terms of 4x4 culture, we are Come with us and experience closer to Western Europe than the charm of Asian hotels and Eastern Europe or Central Asia :) what the end of the world looks like at Cape Horn.

A traditional building in Podlasie.

We start a lazy morning in Bory Tucholskie with a late breakfast.

The Magical power of a bonfire. Brings back the good memories.

We love Land Rovers, after doing a bit of customisation, we’re left with cars that we can trust.

The company was founded out of passion for travel - for over 20 years I was associated with the corporation, I worked for a couple of the largest Polish internet portals. After some time came the discouragement of the corporation and the need to create something that would give great satisfaction. So I invited two fantastic people to work with me and that’s how it started. We currently have 6 expedi-

tionally geared up Land Rovers - with roof tents, refrigerators, stoves, hot water showers and full camping equipment. We rent these cars on fixed routes, and we drive ourselves as guides and mechanics.

So far we have traveled mainly to Georgia, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Russia.

This year (2020) we stayed in Poland due to COVID. We trave-

Abandoned Officer’s Villa in Borne Sulinowo.

Muslim graveyard in Kruszyniany.

led mainly in Masuria and Podlasie, Kashubia and Zulawy. Next year, we are expanding our offer to include Borne Sulinowo and the vicinity of Drawsko Pomorskie, as well as Jura Krakowsko Czestochowska and Bieszczady.

trips around our beautiful country.

If you want to really drive a 4x4 and feel like you are on a trip that really requires a 4x4 - I suggest going with us, for example, to Georgia or Armenia, where If the pandemic allows, we are you will get to taste some real planning trips to Algeria, Namib- off-road adventure, meet fantasia, Georgia, Armenia, Turkey and tic people, drink vodka and fall in love with these places. the Baltic countries - Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Otherwise we stay in Poland and organize

7 INTERESTING FACTS

ABOUT POLAND

18 Poles have received the Nobel prize.

That’s more than Japan, China and Australia.

Poland has 944 cities and 2477 communes.

The Bledow desert in Poland is the only natural desert in Europe Poland is the 9th largest European country and 69th worldwide The Polish alphabet has 32 letters, while the English one has only 26 The Polish constitution was the first one in Europe and the second in the world.

It was established shortly after the US constitution.

Poland has a population of 38 430 000 and an area of 312 679 km2

A RELIABLE SOURCE OF REMOTE POWER

f

This 12V Battery box from euro4x4parts , provides reliable power when off the grid.

or those who don’t want to go to the trouble of a permanent dual battery system,or who or need a more flexible solution than a fixed set-up. This Battery Box Works as a multi-purpose power station wherever required: boot of 4x4, car, pick-up bed, trailer, out in the garden or even in a boat. Battery boxes prevent weather damage to 12V batteries and also protect against accidental acid spills, they also help to manage battery health and can prolong the life of the battery..

A battery box also makes transporting and storing batteries much more convenient, enabling you to take them anywhere you go.

Benefits of the Battery Box Safety

One of the main benefits of this battery box is the improved safety it provides. Batteries contain chemicals that can be very dan-

gerous for the people as well as for the environment. The Box prevents accidental acid spills and also protects from toxic fumes which could be released by some batteries.

Battery Protection

Batteries can get damaged when out in the open, with dirt, dust, and water all being hazards that could cause short circuits and other damage to a battery .This high quality box will prevent that from happening and keep the battery safe from outdoor hazards.

Convenience

ENTRORAE NIHINTE NOXIM URSULES! SCIT

If your vehicle can’t accommodate a dual-battery system or you need a portable power solution that you can easily transport and use in different environments, this battery box is an excellent option. It’s compact, portable, and makes it much easier to move about then an unboxed battery, you can bring it anywhere with you and make sure you always have power on hand when you need it.

Longevity

Using this box should help to protect your battery and can help to extend its useful lifetime. When protected from weather, properly stored, and transported, batteries can last longer and are more likely to perform at their best for a longer period of time.

UNUM AUT CONSULUM DIUMLOR

PALICAVOCUM REI SA LIFC HUIDI

BATTERY BOX SPECIFICATIONS Voltmeter, 2 USB sockets, lighter socket, 2 Anderson plugs, 2 external battery terminals, tie down strap, carrying handle - inner dimension: 350x180x200 Best used with a deep cycle battery up to 350x180x200mm maximum size.

euro4x4parts mission is to import and distribute 4x4 parts for trade and individual clients throughout the world and for all models of 4x4 on the road in Europe.

Its online catalogue includes more than 50,000 part numbers for almost 60 makes of 4x4. This database of parts and accessories, for 95% of 4x4s on the road, is unique in Europe. It enables you to select the precise part you need, avoiding unnecessary returns. Its rebuild kits (brakes, transmission and transfer, steering, engine, axle, swivel), have helped to forge its reputation. They include all the parts you need to get your 4x4 back in shape. Ordering is simplified and you can get to work knowing you won’t be missing a washer at the last minute!

In addition to aftermarket parts it also supplies OEM and genuine parts as well as performance parts for heavy use. euro4x4parts guarantee all its parts for 2 years.

WWW.CAMPWERK.DE

Offroad and Onroad Trailers Innovative Offroad Trailers and Trailer Tents from Germany Company CAMPWERK

C

Tent Trailers by CAMPWERK

AMPWERK, specialist in the field of compact and comfortable camping, has become an established name across Europe. In recent years, the company has rapidly strengthened its market share in the rooftop tents category.. Since then, the recently renovated CAMPWERK locations in Bochum (Germany), Dรถrzbach (Germany) and Tynaarlo (The Netherlands) have grown into some of the largest showrooms for roof tents in these countries, where a wide choice of soft and hardcover models are available. But the backbone of the

K

About CAMPWERK CAMPWERK is the specialist in the field of compact camping.

Inspired by the Australian tent trailers, Michael Krämer started his company in 2010, which is now located in Bochum.

Mobility, adventure, freedom and connection with nature is what you can experience with the tent trailers and rooftop tents from CAMPWERK.

RUGGED O company has always been , and is still the tent trailer, which is built in both an on-road and a robust off-road version.CAMPWERK’s tent trailers are based on the Australian type; are easy to set up and are a great option for roadtrips.

CAMPWERK in Europe We spoke to CAMPWERK owner Michael Krämer who took our call from the new CAMPERK show-

room in Bochum. Krämer explained “Since last year we really have the space to show our range in this new building. Visitors who have made the trip to Bochum get a good impression of what we have to offer. ” The products that CAMPWERK offers are in line with the growing demand for compact, easy to set up, comfortable camping equipment and the outdoor lifestyle that goes with it.”

OVERLAND Tent trailers rediscovered

“When you look at the tent trailers, or the folding caravan 2.0, we see a continual increase in interest from customers. This increase has a cause. It is obvious that a lot has been improved upon here.

For example, sleeping comfort has been greatly improved. We work together with Froli, a German bed specialist. Together with them we looked at the optimal

lying comfort. Based on this, we equip almost every trailer with a specially developed, super-comfortable mattress consisting of cold foam and a top layer of memory foam, all supported with disc springs and with a size of no less than 220 x 175 cm. We can also provide customization here.

And folding it out is also much easier than with the folding caravans of the past. Our Economy version is set up within a minute due to the super simple folding system. And the larger Family version can also be set up within a few minutes with a few extra steps.”

The off-road tent trailers from CAMPWERK are lightweight and can therefore also be pulled by slightly smaller SUVs.

Offroad capabilities. Naturally at TURAS we are curious about the off-road version of the trailer. In the showroom, the trailer is available in both a Cargo version and a tent trailer version.

“We are increasingly building the Cargo variant these days. In our production facility in Bochum, Germany, we can make these in various designs. For example, we can vary in height of the trailer box, length, width and we have a black Black Silver Edition, where the aluminium superstructure is anodized black. By using a heavy chassis, but light construction, the standard version is only 340 kg, but can be loaded up to a maximum of 1,500 kg. ” For more technical information, please see the information box on PAGE XXXX

Krämer continued: “We recently built a copy for the Royal Special Forces in The Netherlands. They were looking for a lightweight trailer (important for transport in a helicopter), which can transport a lot of volume and can of course handle the most extreme off-road conditions. It was also important that the turn-

ing circle of the towing vehicle (the ATTV Vector, with rotating rear wheels) was not limited.

This does not cause any problems due to the long T-shaped towbar. For these reasons, the Special Forces have chosen our trailer. Meanwhile, other foreign government agencies have also found their way to CAMPWERK. ”

The off-road enthusiast can find lots to like at CAMPWERK. But several government agencies have also opted for the off-road trailers because of the various options available and obvious high quality of the trailers.

The Cargo version can be viewed in the CAMPWERK showroom with the iKamper X-Cover roof tent mounted. And there is a definite trend where more and more roof tent campers are creating a bit more flexibility by mounting roof tents on trailers and having

Technical specifications Tenttrailer Superstructure:

Chassis:

Terrain values: Wheels: Measurements trailerbox: Weight:

Cargo

Double-walled anodised aluminum side walls 30 mm thick Expedition fenders, optionally available with jerry cans, bag set or gas bottle Reinforced square drawbar tube for maximum stability and best manoeuvrability Axle up to 1,500 kg. Optionally up to 750 kg. Hexagonal rubber suspension axle with independent wheel suspension. Shock absorbers.

350 mm bodemvrijheid, 570 mm waaddiepte, 270 hellingshoek Tires BF Goodrich MT 235/85 R16, optionally adapted to the towing vehicle.

200 x 125 x 44 cm (lxwxh) Variable from 520 kg (Economy)

their car available in this way. In addition, the trailer can be expanded with further equipment of your choice or with a kitchen from CAMPWERK, so that you can put together camping equipment in the way that suits you.

from 340 kg

“We regularly see that our customers visit places with their off-road tent trailer that are very inaccessible. Experience shows that the trailer is almost never the limitation”, concludes Krämer.

You can learn more about these trailers at www.campwerk.de

SWAG Hutch

W

e love our swags, and there is nothing nicer than waking up in the morning feeling toasty in cool weather ,and feeling cool in warm weather and the range of heavy duty canvas swags from DARCHE make this always the case. DARCHE continues to innovate in the field of camping product design, one of its latest range of products is Swag Hutches. Swag Hutches add an additional storage option to your DARCHE (and most other) swags. The hutch will keep your gear dry and protected from the elements and give you lots of storage space outside of your main swag sleeping area.

Available in two options the Swag Hutch is a 420gsm Poly-cotton ripstop canvas and also the Swag Hutch Lite which is made with 210 Denier Ripstop Polyester Oxford fabric. Both hutches are designed to fit the DIRTY DEE 1100 swag, however they should fit any swag that has a ridgepole. The hutch can also be set up to be free standing using the included aluminium pole.

Both models have a convenient ‘in swag’ access door with mesh panel, which allows you to get to your gear from inside the swag, and also has 2 side access doors with zips. When attached to a swag, a handy storm flap wraps around the swag ridge and ensures that the connection

between the swag and the hutch remains warm and dry.The hutches both have a 600gsm welded PVC bucket floor and can hold quite a lot of gear We also think that the hutch would potentially make a great shelter for our four legged friends.

Features & Specifications - Swag Hutch/Hutch Lite -Designed specifically to fit the DIRTY DEE 1100 swag.Elastic skirt

allows HUTCH® to be used in conjunction with all other DARCHE swags.When attached to the swag, the convenient inner door lets you access your gear from inside the swag.

-Can also be used in conjunction with most other swag brands.

-Able to be setup as a free standing unit.

-Ideal for keeping your gear out of the elements and within easy reach from your swag.

-Convenient ‘in swag’ access door with mesh panel.

-2 side access doors with zip enclosure.

-420gsm Poly-cotton rip stop canvas/210 Denier Ripstop Polyester Oxford Fabric.

-600gsm welded PVC bucket floor.

-Anodised 7001 aluminium alloy 9.5mm set up pole.

-Pegs, guy ropes and polyester carry bag included.

-Dimensions:Open: 900mm L x 1100mm W x 800mm H Packed: 800mm L x 300mm DIA Weight: 2.3 KG

3 GENERATIONS

Alubox HAVE A NEW

INSTAGRAM

ACCOUNT

I

f you are thinking of taking your vehicle off the beaten track, you should probably take some steps to ensure that everything is reliable working order, and that your vehicle has the appropriate protection and preparations in place to deal with the environments you plan to bring it through and also that you are equipped with the right vehicle accessories and also camping , cooking and storage gear to ensure that your trip is comfortable and safe. In essence APB Trading Ltd. is a one stop shop that addresses all of these considerations for you. With

specialist 4x4 vehicle servicing, repair and maintenance services,including minor or major repairs, MOT preparation, and arrange MOT testing by appointment. The APB body shop can rectify anything from a slight scratch to serious damage. Chassis change and re-builds are also available.

Not only do APB service and repair Land Rover, Range Rover, Freelander and Discovery but also most makes of offroad 4Ă—4 vehicles to include Toyota, Mitsubishi, Daihatsu, Nissan, Pajero and Isuzu.

APB’s workshops are fully equipped with the latest Au-

tologic diagnostic equipment to carry out 4×4 servicing and maintenance on the full Land Rover range without affecting your manufacturer’s warranty.

Performance tuning and power upgrades are available for most Land Rover vehicles.

APB also stocks many products which have been imported from South Africa, including

Eezi- Awn K9 (the pioneers of the roof tent), National Luna ( the inventors of a fridge for the transportation of vaccines for world health organisations), Escape Gear (high quality canvas seat covers), Bushtech (superior heavy load canopy tops) and Campmor (high quality canvas ground tents and many more products).

APB Trading Ltd, Unit 38, Hartlebury Trading Estate (North), Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 4JB Tel: +44 (0)1299 250174 Fax: +44 (0)1299 251752 Email: enquiries@apbtrading.co.uk

B

ravo Snorkel continues to innovate in the design and development of its snorkel kits, prioritizing the design manufacture and launch of new models as the snorkel market continues to evolve.

The new Bravo Snorkel corporate website is now available, especially geared towards its distributors and customers, with detailed information about the range of products that Bravo Snorkel Manufacture.

www.bravosnorkel.com On the Bravo Snorkel website you can learn about the company’s R&D, manufacturing and logistics processes, as well as see in detail the quality of each of its product components.

Customers are also be able to purchase any of the products through the same website, where products are sold and shippied internationally.

JEEP WRANGLER JL &JT T C A P M O C L E K SNOR VERSION

Bravo Snorkel has just introduced the Jeep Wrangler JL and JT kit, is an innovative air intake concept.

This snorkel is interchangeable with the standard version and will allow the front windshield to be folded down, changing this configuration can also be done very quickly taking only 5 minutes to do.

Air enters through the side louvers built into the design,which helps to enhance the original wading ability and also to provide fresher, cleaner air.

The ducts and other elements of the kit are included, this being an extra for the SJJL kit and also offering high performance.

FORD RANGER PX SNORKEL

The new SFR8 kit for Ford Ranger PX from 2011 to the current model is scheduled to be launched on the market by the end of the year.

This new kit will be compatible with the new 2.0 turbo and biturbo engines, as well as the previous 2.2 and 3.2.

With this version it will not be necessary to drill the fin of the vehicle, since the snorkel will be installed using the original opening.

VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER

L E K R O N S E G MAN T The kit for the Volkswagen Crafter and the Man TGE has also been developed based on feedback from and requests from customers.

The exterior lines follow the successful design featured in the VW T5 / T6 SVW6 kit, as well as the usual high standards of Bravo Snorkel brand-specific quality.

MERCEDES SPRINTER L E K R O N S 0 1 9 907-

Bravo Snorkel has worked on the evolution of its SMST kit for the Mercedes Sprinter 907 to make it compatible with the 910 frontwheel drive versions.

This kit will go on sale with a configuration that can be installed on both models of the Sprinter.

Due to the large number of reservations received for this snorkel, any new order for this model will now ship in January 2021

THE

VAN BUILD IN ASSOCIATION WITH

2 T R PA

“You don’t learn to walk by following the rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over” - Richard Branson.

We’ve been doing a lot of falling over during this van build! The 2 primary areas of ‘discomfort’ or ‘falling over’ from the design, during the first trip, were as follows: Water … we ran out very quickly Power … we ran out very quickly Water. With our bike rack and kitchen consuming the rear of the van, space for a

large water tank was pretty limited. The solution? A compact over-the-wheelwell tank from Titan Vans.

It’s a relatively small tank at 20 gallons (76 litres), but it fit our build perfectly. A few $s to Amazon with an order of tubing, a handheld shower head and a 12v water pump, completed the setup. The tank is neat, unobtrusive and uses the space around the inner wheel-well brilliantly.

Power: Up to now, we’ve been using a 40 amp hour battery unit for all our power needs. It’s just not enough.

Here are our van power requirements: A.Power all of our stuff over a weekend without having to start up the van to recharge B.Ability to use a power bank as the van’s ‘house’ power system C. Portability: Remove the unit from the van and use elsewhere at a campsite.

So, we got our hands on two of the bigger battery power packs on the market: The EcoFlow Delta 1300 lithium ion pack and (new to the market) Nature’s Generator Elite sealed lead acid pack. Both units provide significant amounts of power and can even be used as backups in your home - if you have a power cut, these bad boys can keep your fridge freezer running while you simultaneously watch TV. It’s lithium ion vs sealed lead acid technologies and both have pros and cons.

We started with the Nature’s Generator Elite. On a Friday afternoon, it was loaded into the van and two portable fridges connected to it (Blackforest and Alpicool). One was connected directly to the DC outlet on the

battery pack, the other to the 110v ‘regular’ outlet (which is less efficient as the power must be converted by an inverter from 12v to 110v by the NG Elite).

The Elite ran both fridges from Friday afternoon, through to Saturday afternoon, with the small screen on the Elite showing there was still 50% of battery available! Impressive as the fridges were working hard in the hot temperatures. Next, we hooked up two 100w solar panels to the Elite. With both panels connected, the unit continued to power both fridges through until Sunday afternoon (when we finally returned home). To torture the Elite, a coffee maker was hooked up on the Saturday morning, just to see what would happen. A few hot cups of coffee later and the Elite was still going strong - simultaneously running the fridges as well as the coffee maker. The display even cheekily suggested there was more output capacity available - this thing can put out a peak of 3300 watts!

For the Eco Flow Delta, we had another stress test in mind.

There were 3 tri-tip steaks to be slow cooked, so a 1200

The Eco Flo Delta has an excellent digital display and showed the Sous Vide was pulling 1200 watts for an extended period of time, clicking on and off once the water reached temperature.

watt Sous Vide was immersed in a 40 quart cooler (38 litre) of cold water. The bagged and sealed stakes were dropped in and the Eco Flow Delta left to single handedly heat the water to 140 degrees.

It had to maintain that heat for 2 1/2 hours of slow cooking. The Delta got the job done. It went down to 0% battery just as the cooking was finished.

The Delta has an excellent digital display and showed the Sous Vide was pulling 1200 watts for an extended period of time, clicking on and off once the water reached temperature.

The party piece of the Eco Flow Delta?

It’s re-charging time. Only 1 hour to get it back to 80% charge, which is incredible! After we had drained the unit of its power, we found an electrical outlet in a nearby public restroom … 1 hour later we had as much power as we needed for the rest of the weekend. The Delta ran a movie projector that evening, and on Sunday morning, the coffee maker was connected - we had as much coffee as we could handle.

So which one was best? The answer for you, is probably different than the answer for me. Let’s outline the pros and cons as briefly as possible:

Nature’s Generator Elite PROS

- Good Value: $999 for 1200wh of power - Tried and tested battery technology: Lead acid batteries have been around forover 100 years.

Cheap/easy to replace internal batteries after warranty expires: $250 - Expandability: ‘Power pods’ are available to connect in parallel, meaning you can increase the available power considerably, if needed - Can provide power while charging

Eco Flow Delta PROS

- Value: $1399 for 1260 wh of power. More expensive than Nature’s Generator, but still not bad compared to other Lithium Ion unit - Portability: Only weighs 31 lbs and is compact - Multiple outlet types, including fast charging USB ports - Warranty is 24 months - Fast charging time: Only 1 hour to charge back to 80%!

CONS

- Weight: 115 lbs - it’s heavy! Ok if leaving in a van, but awkward to move in and out. It does come with a handy cart, so easily moved once on the ground.

- Warranty only 12 months - No fast charge USB port - 8 to 10 hours charge time

CONS

- Not practical to connect 2 or more units. It’s possible, but not efficient. So the power from one unit is the max you can use.

- No ability to replace internal battery after warranty is up

Which one for our van build? It probably comes down to budget. You can buy the Nature’s Generator Elite and a 100w solar panel for the price of the Eco flow Delta. For those with tight purse strings, if you don’t mind the extra size and heft of the Elite, it might be the best option. Another benefit for van dwellers/Overlanders is the Elite can be used as a jump starter for your vehicle using an accessory cable available from Nature’s Generator - sometimes useful in very cold weather, when batteries are more likely to struggle.

If you have a little spare cash and can splurge on the Eco Flow Delta, you won’t regret it.

It’s a lot more portable (only 31 lbs vs 115 lbs for the Elite) and the fast recharge rate is amazing. Stop for lunch during a road trip, plug it in while you dine and it’s fully charged by the time you pay the bill.

Our next task in this ‘slow cooking’ van project? The bed - it’s too high. We need a way to easily move it up and down, depending on whether or not bikes are sitting on the rack.

We do have a pretty cool (and low cost) solution in mind … stay tuned!

FUNKI ADVENTURES Funki Adventures are an Overland 4x4 off-road adventure provider based in San Diego, California. They get you ‘off the beaten path’, in luxury, throughout California and neighboring states, by renting you a self-drive four wheel drive (4WD) Jeep offroad camper. Each Jeep has a Roof Top Tent for Overlanding luxury. Whether you want to experience the desert, drive forest trails in the mountains or surf in the Pacific Ocean - they’ve got a tailored trip for you.

I K N U F

S E R U T N E V D A

o e d i v

Have you heard any of our podcasts yet?

In each episode of the TURAS podcast, we interview interesting personalities from the 4WD Touring and overlanding industry. Each of our guest brings unique expreiences, stories and advice to us and our readers. You can listen to all of the podcasts and also subscribe at http://podcast.turas.tv/ Episode 1: Ferran Revoltos

We discuss the most important aspects of off-road navigation and Ferran also lets us know a little bit about a new GPS Product about to be released by his company. Navigattor. com

Episode 2: Phillip Bond In this second episode we chat with Phillip Bond, founder of APB Trading Ltd.

Phillip is one of the UK pioneers of 4WD Touring and vehicle expedition preparation and equipping.

D

o you have any suggestions for people that you would like us to invite onto the podcast?

If so let us know!

In the meantime we hope you enjoy listening to our previous guest as much as we enjoyed chatting with them.

The TURAS team!

Episode 3: Francoise Graciet Holllander

Episode 4: Jose Almeida Jose’s company Dream Overland runs varied and fascinating 4WD Tours within

Francoise is one of the founders and owners of Euro4x4parts and is also an avid and very sucPortugal with a cessful offroad racer. strong emphasis on Portuguese culture, history and food.

IF YOU TAKE IT IN

TAKE IT OUT Every country throughout Europe and beyond has different laws when it comes to wild camping and driving in remote areas and all of these laws should be respected.As pressure on our landscapes from recreational use continues to increase it is now as important as ever for us all to abide by the Leave No Place

principles. It goes without saying that the vast majority of tourers and campers do respect their environment but unfortunately we will also have a minority who do not and give us all a bad name. to get off the beaten track .

Click here for more details on the Leave No Trace Principles

REMOTE POWER

ANYWHERE SMARTPASS 120S

120A DC/DC POWER MANAGEMENT SOLUTION

E G A R O T S Y T I L A U Q H HIG

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The TURAS Charter

T

URAS is the ancient Celtic word for Journey and we think it fits perfectly to describe our overall editorial philosophy. Originally, the Celts spread out across Europe from Central Europe ending up represented in many countries across Europe, and now over two thousand years later, we are looking to travel and traverse Europe again, though with more modern equipment. As keen campers we love nothing more than packing up our 4WD’s and hitting the tracks, in search of those perfect camping locations.

We constantly strive to improve the magazine and to seek out the best and most useful Camping and 4WD products and accessories.

In our free e-magazine we focus on high quality content that includes articles on all things camping, touring, fishing and 4WD adventures. From finding the best 4WD tracks, setting up camp in some of Europe’s most picturesque locations to cooking up some cracking camp cook feasts. This is all about discovering places off the beaten track and enjoying the great outdoors. We tour to the very corners of Europe and beyond, while reviewing and testing the latest top quality camping and 4WD gear.

Our magazine is free to readers, and is supported by our advertising and brand partners, but this does not mean that the magazine is a glorified product catalogue, far from it. We focus on identifying top quality products and produce informative, interactive articles that explain the features and benefits of these products to our readers, and demon- strate how the products can be used to increase the comfort and quality of their camping and touring experiences. We also regularly produce short videos to demonstrate and showcase these products in use by our team.

The magazine invites our readers to become a part of the story and join us on our own adventures as we, use, test and demonstrate these quality products from top brands.