Simon Valero: Insights from an overlander
8 Oct, 2024
Simon Valero is an avid off-road enthusiast and adventurer who, along with his family and loyal dog Mako, explores breathtaking landscapes across the United States and beyond. With a passion for capturing scenic views and chasing sunsets, Simon shares thrilling off-road videos, stunning drone footage, and expert camping tips. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the outdoors, Simon’s experience will inspire and transport you into the beauty of nature.
We recently had the pleasure of interviewing Simon to bring his experience and knowledge directly to you. In our conversation, he shared invaluable insights on overlanding, camping tips, and how to make the most of your outdoor adventures. Get ready to learn from one of the best in the field!
I’m passionate about capturing sunrise on every trip. I love recording and creating magical moments in nature. The incredible beauty of the outdoors makes overlanding my main hobby.
Could you tell us your favorite overlanding experience and spot?
I love beach camping, but summer in the Smoky Mountains is one of my favorites. Camping by the river with its calming sound and perfect water temperature, surrounded by mountain views and tall trees, makes it amazing.
One thing you want new overlanders to know?
Start small, explore big: Begin with shorter trips to get comfortable with your gear and fine-tune your skills. It’s a great way to prepare for the longer, more exciting adventures ahead.
Leave no trace, leave a positive impact: Always clean up after yourself and try to leave the campsite even better than you found it. Preserving these beautiful natural spaces ensures we can enjoy them for years to come.
Respect wildlife, appreciate from afar: Enjoy the beauty of wildlife from a safe distance. Avoid feeding or disturbing animals to help maintain the natural balance of the environment.
Camp by water, but with care: Choosing a campsite near water can make your trip more convenient, but always follow local regulations and environmental practices to protect these precious resources.
Love your dog! What is his name and any tips for those overlanding with dogs/pets?
His name is Mako, a well-trained Belgian Malinois service dog who is always with me, whether we’re camping or securing our campsite.
Tips to keep in mind:
What can you tell us about the Last 5th gen 4runner?
The last 5th Gen 4Runner of its generation has been tested for over 15 years and represents the best result of Toyota’s manufacturing. It is made in Japan in one of the best automotive manufacturers worldwide. The TRD Pro comes in a unique color for the 2024 TRD PRO model “Terra” . This truck is an emblem for all 4Runner enthusiasts, and I am excited to enjoy overlanding across the USA in the upcoming years.
What features of James Baroud rooftop tents make them your top choice for overlanding?
I really like using James Baroud tents for my camping trips. There are a few reasons why I prefer them for my setup. Firstly, I love how fast I can open the tent. Both the rooftop tents, the Odyssey model with cross bars, and the Grand Raid trailer model with a surface on top make it easy to carry solar panels, which is a big plus.
Additionally, the hard shell of these tents looks great and they are very easy to open and close. The black color scheme for all the covers, like the Awning and the Falcon shower, makes sense and fits the brand concept. Lastly, the tent can also be used as storage by removing the mattress, providing around 8 inches of height inside the tent.
Ready to elevate your overlanding adventures?
Explore the James Baroud blog for expert tips, breathtaking travel inspiration, and exclusive insights into the world of rooftop tents. Dive into our posts and discover new ways to enjoy rooftop tent adventures.