At some point on a long overlanding trip, something on the vehicle is going to need attention. It almost always ends up being something you prepared for. It might be fixable in twenty minutes though, but only if you have the right tool in the kit. The problem is most people either bring too much and can't find anything, or bring too little and end up improvising with something that almost works. 

This is a list of handy equipment we recommend you carry and on your overlanding trips. And remember to keep them organized so you can easily find them when they're needed.

The Hand Tools Every Overlander Should Carry

• Combination wrenches in metric and standard sizes

• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers in multiple sizes

• Pliers, needle nose pliers, and locking pliers

• Allen key set, metric and standard

• Hammer for persuading stuck components

• Utility knife with spare blades

• Wire cutters and strippers
  
  

Electrical and Emergency Repair Tools

• Multimeter for diagnosing electrical faults

• Electrical tape and self-amalgamating tape

• Assorted fuses matching your vehicle's fuse box

• Spare wire in multiple gauges

• Crimping tool and assorted connectors

• Zip ties in multiple sizes, more than you think you need
  
  

The Supplies That Support Every Repair

• Duct tape, the genuine heavy-duty variety

• JB Weld or equivalent epoxy for emergency fixes

• Threadlocker for fasteners that keep working loose

• WD-40 or penetrating oil for seized fasteners

• Multi-purpose grease

• Cable ties, hose clamps in assorted sizes

• A roll of safety wire

Vehicle-Specific Spares You'll Need

• Spare tires for your vehicle

• Fan belts and serpentine belt specific to your engine

• Spare radiator hose and hose clamps

• Spare engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid

• Spare spark plugs or glow plugs depending on engine type

• Spare bulbs for headlights and indicators

• A tow rope or recovery strap if not already in the recovery kit
  
  

How to Store and Organize Your Tool Kit on the Trail

A tool kit that takes twenty minutes to dig through every time something needs attention defeats its own purpose. Store tools in a dedicated bag, roll, or drawer that lives in a consistent, accessible location in the vehicle. Label sections if that helps, use a roll-up tool wrap for hand tools so everything is visible at a glance, and return tools to their spot immediately after each use.

Check the kit before every trip. Batteries in the multimeter, consumables restocked after the last trip, any tools borrowed and not returned put back where they belong. A tool kit maintained between trips is one less thing to think about when the trail is doing its best to keep you busy.