Double check those dual batteries

If you’re contemplating a dual-battery and management system installation, shop around and get as many opinions as possible,

- Mic van Zyl

I write this column sitting in the untamed wilderness of the northwest of Namibia – somewhere close to the Purros Himba settlement. It is the middle of winter in the southern hemisphere, but not here with the midday temperature around 38 °C and nights too warm for thick bedding.

I am touring the area with my family and some friends. We’re travelling in two vehicles with rooftop tents and all the essentials on board. As with any good overlanding trip, we are learning new things about ourselves, each other, our abilities and, of course, our vehicles.

I have always maintained that a good overlanding vehicle often tends to be a work in progress with tweaks and adjustments after every trip and it is interesting for me to see other people’s vehicle setups. I have gathered a fair number of new tips and tricks over the years. Some have worked for me and many have not.