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WHICH 4x4?  WHICH 4X4? WHICH 4x4? One of the most asked questions is "Which 4x4 should I buy?". I usually answer by asking if a 4x4 is really necessary. If an expedition is not going to undertake travel on unmade roads, you really need to consider if you need to buy a 4x4. If you are into off-roading and exploring areas where routes are not defined, then obviously a 4x4 is a good choice. But which one? In the case of 4x4s, I usually prefer the products of Solihull (i.e. Land Rover) - you can usually get spares fairly quickly anywhere in the world, thanks to mail order! Not that there's anything wrong with the likes of Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and the rest. It's just that I've been involved with them for a long time and have got to know them over the years!
 There are a wide variety available - it really depends on you own needs and wallet. Land Rover 101: Available as a canvas top, radio van and ambulance versions, it makes a popular expedition vehicle. Originally powered by a petrol V8, there are quite a few diesel and LPG conversions about. Land Rover Series 2/3 LWB and Ambulance: The ambulance body is fairly heavy, but it makes a ready made conversion for expeditions. V8, LPG and diesel conversions are an option, as are Parabolic springs for a coil sprung type ride.
 Land Rover 110, which was my old expedition vehicle - which now resides in South Africa (sob, sob!). You can sometimes find examples fitted with a glass fibre high roof which is ideal for a camper conversion. If you require something larger, then look towards the truck market. A motorbike strapped to the front is a useful accessory to have if you break down in the middle of nowhere.
 Ex-Camel Trophy vehicles are a popular choice for expeditions, but bear in mind they usually already have had a hard life. However, refurbished vehicles are often available from specialists, such as Nene Overland. As I stated previously, you should also be looking at other 4x4s, such as the Toyota Landcruiser, Mitsubishi Shogun or the Nissan Patrol.
 Using a large expedition vehicle as a daily driver is something most people can do without - but, if it is your only vehicle, then you haven't much of a choice. There are ways of getting around the situation if you have a garage or a friend with one you can borrow. You can keep the removeable expedition equipment off the vehicle until it is needed - it also keeps it out of view from the lowlife. Roof racks (even unloaded) cause wind resistance and will increase your fuel consumption and lower your top speed, so don't fit them until the're needed. Likewise, don't drive around with a vehicle full of equipment, this will again increase fuel consumption.
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