On a recent shoot in the Georgia Traverse with the crew from Main Line Overland, I thought it would be the perfect time to share some changes I’ve made to my GMC Sierra Overland Truck build since my last walkthrough. From suspension upgrades to full water systems and a killer camp setup, this truck is ready for anything.
Front-End Upgrades
Starting with the front, I added an Addictive Desert Designs bumper. Not only does it look awesome on the GMC Sierra Overland Truck, but it also dramatically improves approach angles with added cutaway. Tucked inside is a 12,000lb Warn winch, just in case things get gnarly (which, luckily, they haven’t yet!).
Lighting has been a major focus—there’s a 50” Baja light bar mounted up top, along with one amber Baja Squadron Pro on either side. These bad boys outperform fog lights off-road and throw serious light into ditches and trailside brush.
Tire & Suspension Overhaul
I swapped in Nokian Outpost nATs—about 20,000 miles on them now, and they’re still quiet and gripping everything I throw at them. They’re wrapped around 17” Icon wheels, and the tires are 315/70 R17s, which come out to roughly 34×12.5s.
For the front suspension, I installed Bilstein 6112s and upgraded the upper control arms. This let me squeeze out about an extra inch of lift on top of the factory 2” AT4 lift, which helps the truck clear tougher terrain with confidence.
Off-Grid Water System & Shower Setup
Water was the next big leap. Enter the Boonedox Raincloud—a 10-gallon pressurizable metal water tank mounted to the roof via a Prinsu rack. Yes, I drilled into the roof of the truck (and didn’t spring a single leak), but it was 100% worth it.
That system feeds into the Joolca Ensuite shower, complete with a hot water heater and shower floor. It's surprisingly private, even has storage for towels, and if you’re in full conserve mode, you can recycle shower water with a hose drain.
I mounted a DECKED case for all my hoses and a portable pump setup. That way, if I’m near a river, I can draw water directly—saving tank water for when I really need it.
Rear Suspension + More Cargo Mods
Out back, the truck now sports Bilstein 5160s with remote reservoirs and a custom set of heavy-duty leaf springs that add a total of 3” of lift. I’m ditching the old 2” block to clean it up and return to that nice factory rake.
The Prinsu rack up top (technically made for a Silverado, but they’re basically twins) also holds the water tank and can support more lights or gear as needed.
The Full Camp Setup: A Home on Wheels
This GMC Sierra Overland build includes an Alu-Cab 270 awning, which is freestanding and super quick to deploy. I mounted rails all around to support things like the shower, water system, and RotoPax fuel cans. I've also added more Baja S2 Pro flood lights for camp visibility.
Around back, the Project M camper build is dialed in. There’s a roof rack with MaxTrax up top, Overland Solar panel, and inside, a full DECKED drawer system. One side holds a Dometic drop-in dual-burner RV stove—my complete mobile kitchen. The other drawer is packed with recovery tools, Boxo tool roll, and drill gear.
For propane, I carry a marine-grade fiberglass tank (perfect for my propane outboard motor) and also use it with a LavaBox fire pit and to heat water for the Joolca.
Inside the Camper: Compact Comfort
Inside the Project M, I’m standing on the DECKED platform and only have to slightly duck at 6’. There’s an insulating layer, two MaxxAir fans with rain sensors, and a king-size bed setup with expandable cushions. For solo travel, I sleep sideways and it’s plenty spacious.
Food and beverage storage is handled by the Dometic CFX75, a dual-zone fridge/freezer combo that sips power and stores enough food for days off-grid. It’s been flawless during this trip.
Why the GMC Sierra Truck Works for Overland
This GMC Sierra build has evolved into a capable, comfortable, and self-sufficient overland rig. Whether it's extended off-grid travel or a weekend fishing trip, it handles it all. The modular storage, off-road capability, and comfort upgrades make this truck a real home-on-wheels.
If you're building your own overland rig—or just want a taste of freedom—the GMC Sierra is a platform worth looking at.
