Off-roading / "Overlanding" with a purpose

Some say off-roading. Some say "overlanding." I say, "off the grid help with a splash of adventure."

Trinidad has incredible trails to explore. Many of them are popular hiking trails to waterfalls. Having a 4x4 allows me to reach destinations that most don't venture to. I love to explore the many beautiful ends of my country especially now during the COVID-19 pandemic. Trinidad's international boarders are closed to most incoming nationals with a few exemptions being given. Therefore, I have taken the opportunity to explore my love for finding new places in my 2019 Toyota Hilux.

I started building my truck one year ago with the end goal of having a well capable vehicle that could cope with me putting it through some of the harshest terrain Trinidad has to offer. While bigger mud terrain tires allows for more traction off road; I also lifted the truck six inches in total. (3-inch spacer lift and a 3 inch body lift). The truck also has added protection through an ARB Summit steel front bar and side steps, a safari engineering snorkel as well as diff breathers for going through deep water.

My build also has an insurance policy focus. I wanted a truck that not only could tackle the trails but would also save me in the worst of floods. Trinidad's rainy season brings hardship to many families as garbage blocked canals and drains cause incredible street and river flooding. I build the truck with the intention of also using it to give out aid to those whom are affected by rainy season flooding and to also protect myself and those that I love in the event of my own home being affected.

I am incredibly excited to start new adventures with "715 Performance Shop." They are a group off off-road enthusiasts who love to take their "rigs" or trucks to far reached places. They also have done COVID-19 relief initiatives, by taking care packages into hard to reach communities across the country. Having a vehicle that allows me to help communities in need is one of the most full-filling feelings in the world.

I do have many more changes to come such as a ARB rear summit bar and Smittybuilt X20 waterproof winch!

You can follow my build @luxy_smurf on Instagram!