The Overlanding Philosophy
Overlanding is about self-reliant travel to remote destinations where the journey is just as important as the destination. This Nissan Patrol has been systematically modified to handle everything from Scottish Highland trails to multi-day wild camping expeditions — carrying all the gear, power, and shelter needed to stay off-grid for extended periods.
The build prioritises reliability, functionality, and comfort. Every modification serves a purpose: more ground clearance for rough terrain, additional electrical capacity for extended trips, organised storage for recovery gear and camping equipment, and a comfortable sleeping platform that doesn't compromise day-to-day usability.
Rather than bolting on expensive accessories for show, this build focuses on proven, practical upgrades that have been tested across hundreds of miles of remote roads, muddy tracks, and mountainous passes throughout the UK.
Base Vehicle & Platform
The foundation is a Nissan Patrol GR — a proven platform with a reputation for mechanical simplicity, durability, and off-road capability. The solid front and rear axles, separate chassis, and robust drivetrain make it an ideal candidate for serious expedition use.
Unlike modern luxury SUVs laden with electronics and comfort features, the Patrol's mechanical simplicity means repairs can be made roadside with basic tools. The 3.0-litre turbodiesel provides ample torque for crawling over obstacles while returning respectable fuel economy on long highway stretches between trail heads.
Mechanical Upgrades
Suspension & Lift
Upgraded suspension provides additional ground clearance and improved articulation over rough terrain, while maintaining on-road comfort for long journeys.
All-Terrain Tyres
Aggressive tread pattern for traction on mud, gravel, and wet grass, with puncture-resistant sidewalls for remote areas where spare parts aren't readily available.
Underbody Protection
Steel skid plates protect the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from rocks and ruts when traversing uneven ground.
Fluid Services
Regular maintenance with high-quality oils, greases, and filters ensures reliability. Differential and gearbox oils changed more frequently than factory intervals.
Interior Conversion & Sleeping Platform
The rear cargo area has been fitted with a custom-built sleeping platform that doubles as organised storage. Beneath the platform sits recovery gear, tools, spare parts, and long-term supplies. Above it, a comfortable sleeping surface with foam mattress accommodates two adults.
The platform is designed to be removed in sections if full cargo capacity is needed for other tasks. Carpeted surfaces reduce noise and vibration, while reinforced brackets ensure the structure remains stable even on rough trails.
Curtains and window covers provide privacy and insulation during overnight stops. Combined with a diesel heater (for winter trips) and ventilation fans, the interior remains comfortable in all seasons.
Electrical System & Off-Grid Power
Dual Battery Setup
Leisure battery isolated from the starting battery ensures power for lighting, charging, and appliances without risk of being unable to start the engine.
Inverter System
Pure sine wave inverter provides mains-equivalent AC power for laptops, camera batteries, and small appliances while off-grid.
USB & 12V Outlets
Multiple charging points throughout the cabin and cargo area for phones, GPS units, torches, and other essential devices.
Solar Charging
Roof-mounted solar panel trickle-charges the leisure battery during daylight hours, extending off-grid capability without running the engine.
Camping & Expedition Gear
A roof-mounted awning deploys in under a minute, providing sheltered space for cooking, dining, or escaping sudden downpours. Combined with a folding table and camp chairs, this creates a comfortable outdoor living area at any roadside or trail head.
Water storage includes fresh water containers and a basic filtration system for refilling from streams when necessary. A portable gas stove, cookware, and a cool box handle food preparation and storage for multi-day trips.
Recovery gear — including a high-lift jack, traction boards, snatch straps, and a shovel — ensures self-recovery from mud, sand, or snow when travelling solo in remote areas.
Adventures & Destinations
This build has enabled countless trips across the UK's most remote landscapes — from the Scottish Highlands and the Lake District to the wilds of Wales and the moors of the Southwest. Weekend escapes to little-known trails, week-long expeditions following old drove roads, and spontaneous overnight stops at secluded viewpoints.
The freedom to pull off the road, make a cup of tea, and spend the night wherever the view looks best is the ultimate reward for all the planning, fabrication, and testing that went into this build. It's not about ticking off overlanding Instagram spots — it's about having the capability and confidence to explore on your own terms.
Build Gallery
