To add some details so I don't sound like a complete idiot not knowing what I'm getting into (lol), I am single with 2 large dogs traveling with me. I grew up as a kid in Alaska and spent the last 5 years living in Puerto Rico before moving to Baton Rouge last year to finish my Geography degree at LSU. I am well traveled as a retired Coast Guard Aviator with previous positions as a Firefighter, Emergency Management Planner, Law Enforcement , Search and Rescue and an Aircraft Mechanic. I feel completely confident from a safety standpoint to venture into full time overlanding but have zero experience in off-road travel. What I am looking for in choosing the right vehicle is something that will carry my toys [10' fishing kayak, mountain bike, hiking, hunting, fishing gear, two pets and full time living gear (food, 4 seasons clothing, safety equipment, electronics, etc)]. and still be able to travel down that remote trail. I would think I would need a 3/4 ton 4x4 truck with a diesel engine but then there is the size and weight issues. Trying to find that happy medium as this will be a long term experience... I'm leaning toward an overland trailer with a smaller truck...any thoughts? Maybe I should repost this in a new forum haha