First off, tell us who you are and about the vehicle you drive?

My name is Julian Docherty, a mechanic by trade with a passion for photography and the outdoors! I drive a 2003 land rover discovery 2 V8, converted into a micro RV with 400w solar, clamplux hot water system and vevor brand diesel heater. An SUV tent is utilized as a living space and a full-size bed on top of a “platform” is built into the back of the rover!

What was it about this model that attracted you to it?

I am currently on my second rover! My first was a 2004 discovery se7, in fact that first land rover is what paved the way for a life of adventure as I gained interest in the overlanding life! I like the ruggedness of the discovery 2 platform and with the CDL 4×4 it makes for a very capable work horse! They are also very easy to work on in the field with basic tools. When maintained they will keep going like a tank!

Above – Alien hunting in Roswell

Is your LR a ‘working’ vehicle, as in, does it have a job to do, rather than being a broken wreck?

Besides being my daily driver, it is my main tool in my adventure photography business! Being able to camp in remote spots many can’t get to, makes all the difference for me. I have also used my rover during winter to help tow stuck motorists.

There are not as many LR’s in the US, does this present any challenges for you?

Though there aren’t many “series” land rovers. The Discovery brand has made a mark in the USA making parts available same day, and special order items obtainable within a couple days!

Tell us about your adventures? Do you have any favourites spots? What about travel companions?

I have adventured all over the USA; from the frozen forests of northern Wisconsin, to the sunny beaches of Florida’s gulf coast. But my favourite places to explore are all in the western US with the deserts, mountains, and high plains, there is no shortage of places to see, I’ve gone as long as 6 months traveling and still find something new every time!.. And of course I have my travel buddy Bruce the dog who is always with me on my travels! 

Above – Julian’s Discovery is fully kitted out to suit his needs, and even comes with a four legged friend called Bruce!

What challenges have you faced while out in the wild?

The biggest challenge for me is FUEL! The land rover is thirsty for petrol! So making sure I have my roto-pax canisters filled when I’m remote and topping off when I can at fuel stations. Other challenges include making sure Bruce is safe from spines or cactus, or making sure he is kept cool when I’m in desert areas.

Do you have a wish list of upgrades you want to do?

Some upgrades I’d like to make to my rover include a safari rack and a winch front bumper, I’m currently working on upgrading to a more efficient solar controller, and I’ll be installing a couple different camera mounts soon!

Above – As with most adventurers, Julian has more plans to upgrade his Discovery.

What advice would you give to other LR owners wanting to do something similar?

Don’t be nervous to go take that long drive! If you can put 500mi on just driving around town, you can definitely put that 500 miles on taking an awesome trip! Don’t be afraid to work on and learn about your vehicle! There is lots of information on the internet for repairs and having that knowledge about your rig will give you a little more confidence when in those remote areas if you need to make a repair. And don’t be afraid to ask the LR community for help!

Where can readers follow your adventures online?

You can follow all my adventures on Facebook at Julian Docherty, that is my main platform and I post some of my longer form videos at Julian Docherty on YouTube as well!  

https://www.facebook.com/julian.docherty