I remember being glued to the TV as The Walking Dead premiered on AMC years ago. If you’re not familiar with the show, which has a cult-like following, you’re missing out. It’s an apocalyptic program where zombies, or “Walkers” as they are known on the show, roam the town, taking over one bite at a time. And while we will probably never be attacked by the undead (hopefully), this show did make me stop and think. If $H!% hits the fan, being prepared to bug out could be the difference between life and death. 

If you were in a situation like a zombie apocalypse where you had to load up in one vehicle and bug out, what would you drive, and more importantly, what would you take with you? Naturally, you would want a vehicle that is dependable and capable. And what better automotive platform to start with than a Jeep? These vehicles are very modular and offer a substantial performance aftermarket to boot. There’s literally nothing you can’t find for these versatile 4x4s. The only issue that we can think of, for now, is limited cargo space. But we’re sure other issues will pop up as we get going on this build.

Get Ready To Bug Out…

We decided to start with a 2018 Jeep JL with a turbo four-cylinder. And before you, Pentastar fans start hating on our little cubic-inch challenged engine, hear us out. As you probably know, the 2.0-liter engines offer incredible power and better fuel mileage than the larger 3.6-liter naturally aspirated engine. Better mileage means we can get further down the road if needed. This could be the difference between life and well… you get the idea. Plus, in these types of situations, you don’t have to be the fastest; you just need to be faster than the other guy.

With our vehicle selected, it’s time to get to the meat and potatoes of our build, if you will. First, we need to transport a family of three and a Blue Healer (cow dog) named Hank. The Bug Out Jeep must be low-key, hold supplies and survival gear, and safely store an arsenal. Think of it like an “Overlander build” but more about survival and rescue than glamping. However, we want to be prepared for the elements, which can be challenging here in North Texas. Summer temps can skyrocket well over 100-degrees while temperatures can plummet in the winter months to single digits. And the problem is, if things go awry, which could happen in any season, so we need to be prepared for all of them.

Introducing Project Apocalypse Bug Out Jeep

Our Bugout Jeep modifications will consist of traditional off-road vehicle upgrades. So, of course, it will need a lift, larger tires, wheels, fenders, a winch, etc. However, we are going to also focus on other accessories like lighting, bumpers, recovery equipment, shelter, and modular storage systems for food, water, and ammo. But that’s not all. We have a few surprises we think you will find pretty innovative and worthy of this build. 

So get your go-bags ready to move as we build the ultimate bug out vehicle with the help of industry leaders in the automotive world and beyond. This is Off Road Xtreme’s Project Apocalypse Bug Out Jeep!