Don't let PERFECT be the enemy of GOOD ENOUGH
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- Опубликовано: 29 июл 2024
- It is well know the 70 series Land Cruiser is the best vehicle in the world, and believe it or not, I agree 100%
The question that I wonder about, is do we really need the best, or do we simply need good enough?
In this video I run through the options of having the world's best vehicle sitting in your driveway, or for the same amount of money you can have a good enough vehicle and three years of life changing adventures.
Which one do you want?
00:00 Introduction
01:23 What is the BEST?
03:34 What does the BEST cost?
04:24 What about good enough?
05:00 Which would you rather have?
06:10 Do you REALLY need the BEST?
06:27 Wind the clock back further
07:26 Would you rather have the vehicle, or the adventure?
09:00 Conclusion
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Do you want the "Best", or is good enough good enough? Let me know below!
I'm a good enough type person. Anything more is a luxury. However we all have different expectations so what is good enough for me may not be good enough for somebody else.
better spend the money on impressions in a good enough vehicle than having the perfect vehicle but no money to enjoy the world!!!
I’m good enough too. Old VW bus that has already done trans American with previous owners and now I’m making it my own to do want i want. Cheers
I guess the answer for me is good enough although my story is bit different than yours. After taking a couple of backpacking trips to Australia in the early 1980’s I went on a photographic camping safari in Kenya and then made my way by bus to Tanzania where I waited to find some fellow backpackers so we could rent a Land Rover and driver to take us out to the Serengeti. In 1988 I thought that driving the world would be great but fell back on what I knew, backpacking, so I quit my job, sold my Toyota truck and headed to England to join an overland group driving to Kenya. From there I flew to India and joined an overland truck through India and up into Nepal. From Nepal I flew to Thailand and backpacked my way through SE Asia, to Australia, New Zealand and home. I would have loved to trade my 1986 Toyota 2 wheel drive for the 1985 Toyota 4x4 (the 1982-1985 model years were designed by the Toyota Landcruiser engineering team and with a solid front axle and leaf springs front and rear were essentially lightweight Landcruisers), outfitted it and headed out to drive the world but adding up all the costs and unknowns, I went with the ‘good enough for me’ solution for. The most important thing, as you emphasize, is doing what gets you out there and on the road. After that 1 year world trip I managed to do almost annual 2, 3 and 4 month trips for all the 1990’s, mostly backpacking but also joining some small group overland trips and also renting a vehicle to drive the dirt tracks of Kruger National Park and others in South Africa. Waiting to be able to afford the ‘best’ wasn’t the way to go, getting on the road each time was far more important to me.
Good enough. I bought a 2010 for $10k, put about $8-9k (durable upper cntrl arms, rtt, bumper/winch, fridge, solar, wheels and tires, gearing and locker, lights, radio and subwoofer) in it.
Stuck a 250cc dual sport motorcycle on the hitch and left mid April. Over the past 4 months I explored the southwest US, and made it to Alaska (thanks for the inspiration from reading your first book).
I already want to go back to explore the Arizona strip and more of Utah. By the time I get home I'll have done around 20,000 miles.
My truck shop guy cringes when he sees beautiful 200k+ vans come in for more upgrades, but year after year, he sees the odometer barely creeping up, most way under 10,000 miles. On the other hand, I'm sure if you can afford a vehicle like that odds are you're a business owner, executive, doctor, lawyer, manager etc and you don't have time to go on months long adventures. I worked in pharma for 30 years, and having gaps in your CV/resume were looked down on, and those gaps would keep you stuck at entry level jobs. So I think for some, they buy the "dream" vehicle for simply that reason, so they can dream. They occasionally get to escape for a long weekend, (while checking the cellphone for emails/messages). On a positive note, it creates some barely used overlanding rigs that regular income folks can snatch up. Maybe the real question here is why do we have a work culture where you're considered an unreliable slacker if you take off for a month during the Summer. But that's a whole other video.
You are absolutely right!
💯💯💯
I actually get a kick out of achieving a massive adventure in something that costs less and not everyone has
I'm also a firm believer in "good enough", though I haven't driven around the world.
My suspicion is that watching videos distorts our view of the world. You see the big RUclipsrs with epic rigs, and forget that you can do 90% of what they do in a standard 4x4 with decent tires, and some camping kit.
I'd say you've proven that the Wrangler is at least as good as a Landcruiser, since it does the same things, but for less money.
Great video Dan! If we wait around for perfection we will never do anything. That goes for adventure, romance, careers, and probably many other things.
Well said!
Not probably many things but every thing.
One of the reasons I come back to your videos is specifically because of this “go have adventures with what you’ve got” mindset.
I’ve been daydreaming about building a big adventure rig on a flatbed truck for several years. It’s well out of budget, though, and our cheap travel trailer (mostly) gets us there just fine.
Some travelers s set out on a bicycle and have amazing adventures. It is not about the vehicle, it is about getting out there and doing it!
It's a fun conversation with as many different choices as there are people. Some folks can just afford what they like, a Kia will get you to work but people still buy Porsches. For some folks the build is the point. Either for content or as a hobby, no different than building a street racer or restoring a classic. Some have family or other commitments that don't allow an extended get away so the energy goes into the build. Still others will hit the road with any old thing, fixing it as they go or hoping for the best. And then there are those who don't have the money for a perfect build nor the time to get away for more than a night. We just watch videos and comment on them.
You nailed it Dan. If you are ever obsessed by buying the best, building the best, you are more than likely missing opportunities to actually travel. Some of my favorite adventures were in bone stock Trooper II’s back in the early ‘90’s or a pickup with a cap, or flying somewhere internationally, renting a caravelle or a Chevy Luv and traveling around in that with essentially backpacking gear…. If the goal is travel, especially internationally, it’s actually better to fly under the radar a bit with something super plain or ordinary versus a rolling billboard that screams, look how much money I have! 😆I followed your Pan American trip in the 4 banger TJ on ExPo at the time and was like, hell yes. Ray Highland’s trip in a salvaged series Rover with a family of 5 across Europe and Asia is another great example of what you really need. Anyway, keep preaching the gospel.
Thoughtful discussion. I don't begrudge anyone who has worked hard enough to earn luxury items in whatever that means. I lean toward older average priced vehicles, which I don't mind maintaining, and it allows me to spend $ on fuel and adventures. For me the whole point is to go out & have experiences, however you see fit. And I will have my 18yo son read "Work Less To Live Your Dreams". Now that we just finished replacing coolant components on his 2001 Jeep!
I think the balance is “ what can you afford to walk away from”, if it’s destroyed, stolen, or you need, for some reason to leave the investment and go in a different direction, either temporarily or permanently. As this topic also revolves around the sense of freedom you gain by doing an adventure like you undertake, if you have everything invested in only the equipment and not the purpose for the vehicle itself, then what’s the point.
I'm related to a lot things you mentioned over the years, I recently purchased my dream 80 series, (70 series or troop carrier are out of my league) and after put the numbers in front of me I chose to travel by motorcycle. LC 14-16 mpg vs a little 650 single 60 mpg. The difference in the fuel expenses will allow me to travel much much further and stay in comfortable hostels or small hotels, I prefer traveling for 2 years vs 6 months. I know it's a trade off. I prefer travel more than have an expensive vehicle to show off.
You and me both!
In Conclusion:
If you can afford the best + the extra cash to travel - go for it.
If not, then draw the line somewhere else - for one it could be a Wrangler, for someone else it would be a Suzuki, or it could just be a bicycle! Some people overland with a bike too. 😎
Absolutely, and I think the honest truth is that the very vast majority of us can't just drop unlimited money, so we're constrained in our choices by money.
You make a really interesting point. It's so easy to get caught up in the marketing. And I don't care who you are, you're just susceptible to it. I'm susceptible to it even though I try to be very cognizant of it
I have an older motorcycle. It's about 12 years old. I have always wished I had a newer bike or a better bike or a smaller bike or a bigger bike or whatever.
And yet 20,000 miles later, it's good enough
It's not perfect. It's not ideal. But it's never let me down. It's never had a mechanical problem. It's been dropped and dumped and knocked over and beat up
It's been up and down mountains, through mud bogs, through empty desert. Freezing cold, snow, rain.
And yet my Triumph keeps doing its thing. I look at those beautiful BMWs, the beautiful Yamaha, the Aprilla, the KTM's. Such capable vehicles. Such capable and powerful motorcycles. Yeah they would make things a lot easier sometimes.
Yeah I think about my little tent, my little stove. Wish I had this wish I had that. But they at the end of the day, I've never wanted for anything when I'm traveling. I have everything I want.
Every time I come back I always find something else to get rid of. Every trip I take something less than the last. It's not things that make the trip. It's the experience.
The best is reserved for people that can afford both the vehicle and the adventure (aka, not me). I definitely could not justify buying the vehicle without also being able to afford the adventure. Don't need or want a driveway trophy truck. The real question for me comes down to how many years will I want to continue working before pulling that early retirement plug. The goal is 50 years old, so we'll see what we want to spend our money on when that time comes. Still 12 years away. I suspect we'll land on good enough. You've proven to me that Jeeps are perfectly capable and I could set off on an adventure with confidence.
Mate, I am amaized at times why people can question your decisions after what you have done and also already explained your reasoning on why you have chosen what you have. I love touring, would I like the best of the best to do it in, ehhh sometimes yes but in the end, I have a 2004 GU Patrol that I tour in and actually have fun designing things for it to make it comfortable and practical to work with, and in the end, as I'm sure you know, who seriously wants to scratch and dent a 100k car when you can do the same trips and more in a 16k car and with the money you don't spend, vas you've mentioned can use for the trips and fuel. Enjoy your vids thanks, a shame we missed each other during your trips in OZ.
I agree and that is why I have a JK and just returned home from a trip 2 days ago.
I really do appreciate all the information you give all of us on how to have a vacation on a budget because you bring up a valid point you don't really need a super expensive vehicle you just need one that fits the specifications for your tour I really do like the fact that you are showing us how to have a Grand Vacation on a budget
You make some great points. For some people, having the perfect truck actually *is* what they care about - even at the expense of travel.
"Overlanding" has brought several hobbies together: Travel, camping, off-roading, and vehicle building. Some people are suuuper into vehicle building, while others could care less and have adventures in whatever vehicles they have. I think it's important for those who are more travel focused to realize they don't need to compare themselves to the hardcore vehicle builders.
You make a very good point that "overlanding" in the US has brought many different hobbies together, and people have different priorities.
99.9% of the time I speak to people who are passionate about the travel experiences, but it's good for me to remember there are plenty of people out there that don't consider that a priority.
I swapped a 2017 Caravelle for a 2017 79 fully kitted both were valued about $46,000 in South Africa. I think we are just lucky in Africa. I do about 10000 to 15000kms a year exploring.
This is a valid point. We spent $100k on our car and van to go around Australia with the family. We could have spent double that for the perfect set up, but we would have taken years to save that extra $$
Taking the trip now is always better than some vague time in the future!
I've always had a 'most bang for the buck' philosophy. Buy the best quaility I can afford to reliably accomplish my goal. The best for my needs has rarely been the most expensive, and I rarely experience equipment failures. I enjoy using something that was well designed and that performs as designed. I take care of my things and they last longer than I thought they would. Over a lifetime looking back, it's worked out pretty well.
If it makes you feel good, you can afford it, and it works - you be you.
I travel with my wife and she wanted a home so we planned together and compromising to be less macho means we travel together. 85,000 miles in three years and four countries with more to come. Being retired with monthly checks is lovely.
Sounds incredible!
To quote motorsport "Seat time is everything" if you can spend half the amount and have double to seat time / travel time / countries visited then I'm saying that is a win.
I like it!
Hey Dan. This video is just you in a nutshell. I really like it. You are not one of those influencers which have a huge budget (and even if...). You are not about the shiny toy which looks best but about the adventure and getting out there. Always true to yourself and inspiring others to do so, with what is needed and not what is maybe the perfect one.
Great video! Thanks Dan!
Thanks for the kind words!
Even if my RUclips channel gets big one day, I want to always remind myself the adventure is by far and away the most important thing!
The timing on this video is perfect I’m sitting in Europe waiting to go back next month to my 4x4 and drive across China. In my boredom I started looking at $100k 70 series
Wow, that sounds like an incredible adventure across China
I enjoy cruising the outback in debt free 100 series no worries at all
Well said Dan! I too have a Jeep TJ and while of course I’d love to have a brand new vehicle, my old TJ gets the job done. It’s not comfortable for long road trips, it’s loud and has hardly any cargo space, but I don’t have any vehicle debt and I can spend more money on trips!
I am in the unusual position of being a 2016 79 series twin cab landcruiser owner and a 2005 TJ Jeep Wrangler owner. both owned by me and purchased from new. the Jeep is amazingly capable with 31" tyres and 40mm lift, easy to maintain, parts cheap from USA but carry space is very limited. have done about 300,000 kilometers with no issues except for routine maint. the 79 series bullet proof and a great outback touring vehicle but a lot more expensive to maintain and not as capable in the bush due to overhang and has the turning circle of the Bismark, but standard lockers make it awesome.
That's really interesting you have both and have that direct comparison!
@@TheRoadChoseMe yes, when I purchased the cruiser, I looked over at my Jeep and didn't have the heart to sell it as love it too much
We just did a 7 months trip, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Broome, Darwin, Alice Springs, Melbourne more or less... 25000ks. In a nissan Navara and camper trailer.... to your question.... I would take the good enough vehicle and the trip!!! Every time.
Sounds great!
I need the best adventure, and yes good enough is good enough.
The best vehicle is the one you can afford and still have the means to adventure. You have steadily upgraded from your first Jeep to where you are. And that's good.
Each to their own. For me it's my converted LC105 1HD FTE. for others is a Toyota or delica wizbang. For you is your Jeep. So long as you enjoy the journey in getting the vehicle and the adventure.
I agree 100% - you have to make sure there's money left for the adventure, and not sink it all into the vehicle!
Mate you have hit the nail right on the head 👍👍. I’ve only just found your channel and it’s great, down to earth, well done, I’ve had Jeeps for 30 plus years both on my farms and my adventures and they have never let me down plus they’ve had very hard lives, Australian’s are fixated on over priced show piece toys😢, too answer your question to me it’s all about what will do the job, comfort and economics, Jeep have all in the bag, also Jeep is as Australian as a Japanese Toyota etc etc.
Keep it up happy trails.
We went with a used low km y61 CRD Patrol for a third the price of a land cruiser not quite as big as a troopy but will go anywhere and does not need the rear axel widened. New and used land cruisers are ridiculously overpriced so we can now spend so much more on travel we agree with you.
Sounds like the perfect choice!
Gidday Dan, 100% I would do it your way and put the money into the journey than be a poser with your rig parked in the drive. I think its a mind set anymore where everyone wants to be like the Jones's and have the latest and greatest, when really you don't need all that stuff, you need functionality and reliability and you're good to go.
This is great life advice in general. I sent it to my adult kids. Thank you!
Each to their own on all of this in terms of budget, DIY versus commissioned fitout approach, core vehicle brand selection impacting support where you will drive it, modern electronics risks versus fixability with a hammer, vehicle scale and inherent offroad capability needs vs aspirations, introduction and acceptance of risks from "upgrades" degrading inherent reliability, shiny vs scabby outlook affecting whether you'll worry about scraping trees or experiencing dust storms, achieving the degree of luxury you want (probably linked to your stage in life) plus deciding how and where you actually take it and use it. A walk around the German Bad Kissingen Alrad show campsite illustrates that best. If you want a Suzuki Jimny, Land Cruiser, Transit van, Sprinter, Iveco, Defender, Jeep, Pinzgauer, ex Mercedes fire truck, KAT1, Unimog, fine. Just try something before you're too decrepit or dead !
I love this philosophy across everything in life. House, tools, clothing and vehicles especially.
Hey Dan. Of the two options - of course "good enough"! But it would be a third option for me (although I understand others could not choose a third - build an older "bullet proof" vehicle option and maintain it IF necessary.). You have had AMAZING success with your Jeeps - which I believe shows the quality of the owner's awareness and carefulness. I just keep waiting for the exception which I am afraid will happen this next trip planned due to 1 - the technology of the diesel engine, 2 - the technology with the automatic transmission couple with 3 - the remoteness (lack of technology repair facility options) you will have on your upcoming trip. I HOPE THAT I AM WRONG! If nothing else you will keep me on the edge of my seat! :)
I've driven about 50k km in the past 12 months in my good enough 4Runner (about 8000 km since we met at BCOR). I do wish it got better fuel economy though!
Going for it!
I want 'the best' in my dreams but in reality 'the good enough' does it for me.
Another question would be "what is the best?". Everyone's situation is different. Whether that be situation, intended purpose, and most important (especially now), financially. Something to consider too, is (again)- what is the best? Are you just paying for a name (which is, sadly, the case most times), or are you actually paying for a better product? There again, is the "better" worth the price?
I'm gonna go even further and say that "good enough" is the maximum. To me, every euro not spent before the trip is one i can spend during. I currently drive a small city car, with a ground tent, that I took to nearly 30 countries. It's perfect because it means that I can actually travel instead of buying an expensive vehicle which means many more years of waiting. That being said, as soon as I graduate and get a better income I'll probably buy a hilux, as they're not too expensive and cheap to make trip ready.
It sounds like you and I think alike!
Good enough for sure!! For most of us, "the best" means you'll never actually get out there. So YES - get out there - get good enough, or even just barely enough, but GO!! I just bought a Toyota Tacoma for Western U.S. exploring. And I did this for similar reasons - it's absolutely not "the best" but it is "good enough" and very reliable. This cost me many tens of thousands less than other similar options that were "better".
Jeeps are awesome for what they are made for, and you proved that they are reliable enough to get you around the world and back
I'm a fan of good enough. Near home (in my home country) there is a freedom to driving a vehicle that is not new, not "the best," and is okay to get scratched and dinged a bit and may need some road repairs. Easier to relax and have fun. However, my standard of good enough goes up when reliability and parts availability is crucial, such as when travelling internationally. The trick is discerning when the best of something (vehicle, accessories, or whatever) is worth the expense. Too many folks see RUclips videos and think they have to have the full wish list. Ability to wrench on your vehicle helps a lot here as well.
Also, as others have noted, travelling with a flashy, high-cost kitted-out vehicle can draw unwanted attention. Better to fly under the radar for less and have fun.
Dan , I love these thought provoking, philosophical videos!
What one person thinks is the best , may not be for the next guy.
To continue on your thought, “ comparison is the enemy of contentment “. You build what is best for you!
I wonder how a Landcruiser would have faired flipped on it’s side in remote Africa, compared to your Jeep. Seems to me the Jeep did pretty well!
My Son just bought a 4x4 Tacoma Trail Ed. (Landcruisers are not available here in California.)
It’s a great vehicle but I like my 2018 Wrangler JKU better because it works better for me.
Well done Dan!
I was in the same boat. My friends like to hunt and couldn’t follow them with out a 4x4. Couldn’t afford a new truck or nice used. So I bought a 89 full-size bronco as we had a parts truck and a junked one. With help of a buddy who’s a mechanic we got it drip vent able and rode worthy in two months for my trip a week along with no major problems. This was what I could do with no debt. Totally agree with what your saying.
Sounds like the perfect vehicle to me!
I just had this discussion about my pathfinder against a 70 series troop carrier , I use mine for some off-roading and camping up in the Italian alps , and it’s also my daily , it’s a very capable car for the money , and I went to see a friends 70 series and he was saying you see with mine we can go to the desert and so on the friking car costed over 1o0thousand between purchase import and mods and homologations , it’s not even finished yet , on the other the pathfinder has done moultiple outings and adventures over the summer !!
That’s great advice. I have a F250 that is good enough. Putting a camper topper on a four wheel drive pickup is more than good enough for most adventures and it’s super affordable and durable.
I just chose this route for my vehicle. We had a $25k budget and ended up deciding to spend only about $5k and saved the other $20k for next year's adventures.
Right on - that is an IDEAL vehicle to take up to Alaska to down the Pan-American
Good enough is a pretty relative term. I've been thinking about this a lot lately because I'm planning to spend a year in Australia: touring, overlanding, and 4 wheel driving. I'm now in New Mexico (US) and have some experience overlanding in a 22 year old Ford Ranger. I'm in my 70's so things I did in my 30's just aren't of interest. When I was about 30 I spent about 3 months mostly highway touring the US on a motorcycle with a P.O.S. tent, air mattress, and sleeping bag. I'm not about to spend a year sleeping on the ground in Australia. Also, I need a certain amount of reliability. Maybe I could fix some things along the way but I'd hate to have a serious breakdown halfway along the Madison Track. So, good enough for me is a real question. There's a certain amount of "insurance" as well. What about the best available recovery (or safety) gear? But you are right: Don't forget the adventure. And the other thing I often consider is that unintentional events are the stuff of memories.
A great question. It is all relative to the money that you have access too.
I 100% agree with your thinking Dan, I have to live within my means so the "ultra” off road rigs are just not a option. Safe travels Dan
Yep, I think the reality is that basically everyone is limited by money, but it's taboo to talk about, so people often don't feel comfortable laying it all out like this
Yes land cruiser is very good but it needs some modifications ( rear axle width ) , it has leaf springs at the rear and the V8 diesel ( Australia and South Africa ) which is very thirsty - no vehicle is perfect - i think there are other vehicles out there that come close - i agree that the experience is the most important part
good enough is more than enough, as long as you can still enjoy an adventure.
Good Enough. You’ve made me a believer. Love you steel rims, smaller tires explanation, won me over for good enough. All the bells and whistles are great but having more money to live and have experiences is so much better.
Right on!
Best telegraph track fun ever in a dihatsu terrios 1300 $ piss pulled everything very light had to rough it for two weeks still driving it to work now
One day when I do it again I want to go in a POS $1000 vehicle!
Have a 94 troopy brought for $12000 spent $20000 been round Australia twice now never missed a beat next door neighbour has the 79 series with everything never leaves the driveway
Perfect is the enemy of productivity. In this case, it's better to make do with what you have or can afford, then it is to wait for something better. That isn't a compromise, it's being grateful
Love your channel Dan, we were stuck in Melbourne during lockdowns and decided to look at travelling Aus, we have kitted out a 2012 Pathfinder with a very small off-road camper trailer. All up we have only spent just under 100k on setup (the price of some people’s stock troopy’s) we have been everywhere, Oodnadatta, the cape, gibb etc. we see big expensive setups everywhere and we go everywhere they go
Sounds great!
That’s a good point. I would want the Jeep and the 3 years.
I would definitely always go for "good enough", but my last two regular cars were just that and they cost me so much more in maintenance...so, good enough plus epic adventures would always be the go-to option for me; but only when "good enough" means, like it did in your case, it is sturdy and won't make you cough up a fortune to keep it running...actually looking into long term overlanding for next year, so we are looking at so many vehicles right now. Not Jeeps, but vans/campers, even so; your videos are super interesting and really help us along as well!
Happy to hear they're helpful!
Thanks, Dan! You are definitely an inspiration…
“Overlanding” used to be such a rich man’s pastime before you and other folks like you started telling your stories…
Cheers!
I genuinely think Overlanding has always been an "everyman" pastime, it's just that recently the rich people have been getting all the media attention.
I’m chose my Hummer H1 ‘06 Alpha Overland build sitting on backyard, which I think is very underrated for this purposes))
100% agree with you as I did exactly the same while doing The Lap around Australia - my vehicle was an old 4k AUD 2001 Xtrail and Ive even managed to surprise quite a few Landcruiser owners with where I was able to go with it. :D
Perfect!
Agree
That might be the best "Jeep over Toyota" argument I have heard heard.......and really gives me pause.
Admittedly I am (obviously) a devout Toyota guy but this does make a ton of sense if you are working with a limited amount of disposable income.
So then.....would I take a cherry 80 Series decked out to tool around a few states? or a Jeep to take on a life changing adventure??
🤐
Right. For years people have said "But Jeeps aren't the best".
And I always said "The only relevant question is can you spend a lot less money (on something like a Jeep) and still get the job done? So all I care about is if it's good enough".
I have a well kept 3,800 dollar stock xj Cherokee and I lived in it for 3 years and took it all over the U.S. It still treats me well on adventures and I barely even consider the existence of anything else.
I love the XJ and one day I might have to get another!
Great points, thanks for your videos, we really appreciate them! We just completed a 10,000 mile round trip, including the Dempster, Dalton, Alcan and Cassiar, in a 2014 Ram 1500 with 132,000 miles and 5 year old tires. No issues whatsoever.
That is awesome! I hope you loved the North as much as I do!
I also live this balance. We work in education and travel every summer across Canada. We bought a 200k km van and converted it ourselves for under $35k Canadian. Even 15 year old converted vans are listed for $50k or more. At that price we could just buy a luxury car like a Lexus hybrid and hotel stays!
I am following you since the America trip. Since that time I call you, the “ common sense “ guy; and after three continents, you still the “ common sense “ guy.
That is my answer. Thank you for sharing.
Haha, thanks!
I love this one. I think it all depends on your tastes.. what you like. And the big one! Are you doing it for you, or other people. The guy you spoke of who sparked this conversation is all about Landcruisers, and that's cool. I'm all about Jeeps, cuz that's what I first bought to adventure... It's a Cherokee, and it did amazing things, so that made me a Jeep guy. I paid 4500 bucks for it... 26 years ago... and I still have it. Now my wife has a JLU. And as with most folks, the topic of winning the Lotto comes up, and I'd still have my Cherokee. Though perfectly rebuilt. I don't think I could get rid of it cuz I love it. It's done for me, not to impress others. It's for us to get on adventures with... Not for others to oogle at. Let's face it, it is cool when folks say they dig it. But do what you want, run what you like. A Jeep may catch your eye, a Toyota might. Doesn't matter, do it for you... And if doesn't let you down... Bonus! My Jeep has ALWAYS got me home ... Then broke
Unless there is a specific circumstance where "the best" is the only thing that's good enough, there's really no reason to splurge if you're not in the position of writing blank checks. Do you need the absolute best, purpose-built image sensor on the James Webb Space Telescope? Yeah, anything less and the question "is the mission even worth it with this?" arises. Do you need the same if you want to photograph the Milky Way on your backpacking trips? Hell no.
Good enough works for me
I got a 300tdi,defender, it does the job, poor man's 4x4 in South Africa, could buy 10 with land cruiser money, 1 life, live it!
The man who gets out on adventure is not poor!
@@TheRoadChoseMe absolutely true, 1 life, live it, I know brothers from Tanzania who travelled to South Africa in a fiat uno lol, and back
As an Australian I can say with certainty we don’t need another Aussie driving a $100+ LC; it’s great seeing some variety.
That is the main reason I went with the Gladiator for Australia - we already knew exactly what would happen if I drove the LC, it was time for something different.
Watch C90 adventures and you won’t care about the best! Love your topics to keep me real and going overboard on my build. Keeping my build light and simple with even using back packer cooking kits to keep it light. Cheers and keep it up !
Absolutely, so many great adventures!
Dan, I feel like a good number of points you made in this video were things we chatted about at the BC overland rally. Our philosophy for overlanding is similar on so many levels. I’d take the jeep!
Absolutely, this has been bouncing around in my head since Overland Expo PNW, and I often think for a long time before I make a video on a topic
It’s so easy to get caught up in an image. I’d love to repaint my truck, but it’s good enough. I’d love to put a better turbo on the engine, but what’s on there is good enough. Things that aren’t good enough, Clutch, harmonic balancer, rear suspension, bench seat….. it will cost me less money then a paint job to fix that stuff.
I'm with you on that. ok dreaming of an fully kitted 200 series or an expedition truck... who doesn't, but realistic it just has to be a 4x4 and reliable enough....
I bought my 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD- Off road for $34000 already outfitted with roof rack, bed rack, grill guard, lift, wheels and tires. Spent roughly $5000 on upgrades. Now I only travel the US so my situation is different but you can get a very capable vehicle for much less. Now I wish I had a 70 series Land Cruiser but I absolutely love my Tacoma and it is by far “Good Enough” for my needs
Very nice!
If you are packing light enough a jeep is perfectly adequate, and I think the simplicity of minimalist overlanding is a good thing.
I own a "86 62series LC, Sahara, had it for 24 years, its done 700k, cost me $15.000 in "99, paid for long ago, yes ive replaced worn out parts, no engine or drive train apart from the tranny and coverted it to an overlander and have travelled Australia extensively for years on end, its never left me standing nor has it ever been on a towtruck, its not a beauty(natural patina i would call it. Lol) or quick but i actually want to see things, its the best car I have owned and can't see why i would replace it with lets say a troopy, it goes anywhere, is reliable big enough and i can sleep in the thing, what else do you need? Drive what you want to, can afford and have fun, KISS=Keep It Simple Stupid, is my motto. Good to see you are traveling well, God bless.
I just looked up a new G-wagon... MSRP of about $470k currently. Nuts.
My feeling in choosing a duck out of water vehicle (as opposed to a vehicle that can do anything without breaking a sweat) is part of the adventure and part of the conversation starter.
Both my 2 and 4 door Jeep Wranglers are more than good enough my 2 door has been through hell and back exploring the remote Canadian wilderness . I am currently exploring in my built for long distance overland touring Jeep Rubicon 4 door , Yukon , NWT , Alaska , and now Northern BC . Let me tell you jeeps are more than up to the task , and so off road capable . Nope , I’ll take my Jeeps any day , they have (all three , I also have a 2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ as my winter driver) .. the overland rigs both 2 and 4 door have proven their reliability and robustness out in the field wherever I take them from remote bush trails to on highway , and they get great gas mileage, the 8 speed in the wrangler @ 80KPH gets 10.9 litres/100 I’ve seen 710 Kim’s to empty . Pretty good fuel eco. I recon , and that is loaded down with roof rack and cargo boxes extra fuel water , fridge solar batteries.,. the whole deal.
Wild Bill currently out Jeep exploring the great Canadian North . Cheers .
I'm impressed by your fuel consumption Bill!
My daily doesn't have heat or a/c. I think that sums up where I stand.
I'm not rich so I have to do Good Enough! My 06 Tacoma has 428000 miles on it with a rebuilt motor.
Impressive!
I think you're doing it right; put the funds into the adventure! A relatively cheap vehicle also removes some of the concern of cosmetic damage as well. I'm comfortable squeezing my nearly 20 year old 4runner down overgrown trails because the pinstripes from branches just blend in😅
Fully agree, I've recently been idly looking at the trophy scratches from some tree branches in the roller applied paint on my present build within its first 500 miles of use. If I had a pristine paint job I'd be suicidal !
Thanks for mentioning the G wagon! 😂❤
Hey Dan, The 70 series in Australia is upgraded to have the same suspension and rear Dana differential as a Jeep and they also extended to hem to as you would already know.
The 70 series Land Cruiser is built differently they are the Japanese military vehicles and laws are to follow
Well, as long as I don't have the time to be happy with 'good enough and travel', I aim to continue working, dreaming and working on 'the best'. Once the time is right: forget 'the best', be happy with 'good enough' and start rolling. As the last shirt has no pockets, memories might be more important than assets in the garage.
ha, 'The last shirt has no pockets" - I haven't heard that before and I really like it!
Needing the best is "gatekeeping" and not needed. Almost all geared out "best" vehicles are rarely even used for their intended purpose. In my opinion when I see someone with a super expensive overlanding/offroad vehicle I think of them the same as a guy with a fancy sports car. Its for show and to make them feel good about themselves. One last point is that the more expensive your vehicle the less likely you are going to risk damage to is by using it.
That's a hard question to answer; I get where you're coming from. I think it comes down to - building/owning an "overland" vehicle and actually taking extended adventure trips are kind of two different hobbies.
Personally, what keeps me from taking epic year-long road trips isn't the cost of the vehicle or the cost of the traveling, but the lost income from not working for that period of time. It's a different way of looking at things but I think it's valid, and it's the reason I'm pursuing a fully-remote job.
That is a very good point, but it's worth remembering that life on the road is not expensive, and if you save up, you won't need an income to stay on the road for a year or two.
Hola Dan! I think most people will agree getting out on the road is the most important thing, at the same time I think your vehicle progression shows that if you have the budget for a little more comfort then go for it, just don't let it keep you from your journey. Really enjoying the build series, we bought and built out a four wheel camper shell and that was a huge project, what you're doing is next level!🙂🙂
Most people will say they agree but by action you can tell they really don't. How many $100k rigs just sit in the driveway year after year. It is much easier to keep buying things for the rig than actually pulling out of rhe driveway and using it.
@@thomasbaker5426 True, I guess I'm more so thinking of people that are committed to doing a trip. 👍
As usual spot-on observations Dan. I refuse to buy a super expensive vehicle for overlanding. My rule is simple I will buy a used vehicle as long as I can maintain and repair it myself, the money I save on the purchase is spent on fuel for travel.
I like that attitude!
I really love how intelligently you approach things Dan. I love cars and of course a top spec land cruiser would be amazing. But it would tie up so much capital and what is the point of it if you don't use it? I dont think its wrong to simply want a nice toy if you can afford it. But it's sad that it almost seems to be the norm to spend stupid amounts of money and barely enjoy or use your investment and go exploring. Life is about so much more than stuff, and travel is so incredibly rewarding.
This also applies to loads of other consumer products. Do people really need watches that can dive to 3000m and macbooks designed for 4k video editing just to surf the web?
I personally have my eye on a 90 series Prado.
Keep doing what you do Dan!
Thanks very much!
Also it depends how much you get emotionally attached to your car. If you’re ok to sell or abandon your car at the end of the trip then it’s fine but if you want to keep the car to take it elsewhere or as a reminder of the great trip you did, then you might want to get a « better » car and keep it longer, even if that means postponing your trips. I liked driving the world with my 911. But it costed too much so it was either selling it and buying a more appropriate car for driving the world or keeping it and driving it way way way less.. I chose to sell it but I was sad. But I can keep on driving.
Cheers mate !
horses for courses i guess. 79's are extremely popular in Australia as witnessed on our recent Canning Stock Route trip for example. We like ours and it has a rear axle load capacity that will sufficiently carry all our gear, extra fuel , camper, kitchen sink incl, for such trips, but with that we will probably sell our setup after these trip types and go for a smaller unit ....perhaps. Am quite interested in your jeep build. Wiil be great to see it when finished !!
We've got a Tacoma and a teardrop trailer. They might not be "the best" but they've been good enough to keep us traveling for 3 years now. All the while taking us to some amazing places to live, hike and kayak. I'll take the adventure over having "the best"
In your scenario we'd pick the jeep and time to travel over the 70 without a question or thought.
That sounds like an incredible setup and a ton of adventures!