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The FLATED crew made the trip to XOverland’s The Big Thing, and it turned out to be one of the most authentic and inspiring overland gatherings we’ve ever attended. Forget the big expo vibes and vendor rows; this event was all heart, all community, and all adventure.

The setting couldn’t have been better. The XOverland Ranch is a new space in Montana created by the team behind the Expedition Overland series — a group that’s been living and breathing true overland adventure for years. The ranch isn’t just a venue; it’s a place built for connection, education, and shared experience. From wide-open fields to off-road test trails, it’s where the overlanding community can slow down, learn, and get inspired without all the noise.

Throughout the weekend, attendees dove into incredible talks covering recovery from WARN, preparation with Clay Croft, and real-world travel stories from people who’ve put serious miles under their tires like Peter & Kathy Holcombe. There was no sales pitch, no hype — just passionate conversations and skill-sharing that reminded everyone why they fell in love with overlanding in the first place.

The skills course was a standout, giving folks the chance to drive the brand-new Toyota Tacoma TRD models and put their training into practice. Let’s just say the mud was flying and the smiles were wide.

FLATED was stoked to be part of the action and to raffle off an Air-Exec Chair, a well-earned bit of camp comfort for one lucky adventurer. We also brought along a suite of FLATED products for folks to test out. Including our decked out Toppers with Air-Decks.

Huge thanks to the folks who made the event memorable; Two Wolf Foundation, RC X Overland, OnX Maps, Rebelle Rally, XOverland, Goose Gear, LifeSaver Jerrycan, Escapod Trailers, Adventure Built, and so many more. Events like The Big Thing remind us why we love this community... good people, epic rigs, and a shared love of life off the beaten path.