WaterPORT Overlander Tank – Install & Review

I recently purchased the all-new WaterPORT Overlander 5-gallon tank. I have been running WaterPORT tanks for years. They offer a few other options, the Day Tank (4-gallon) and the Weekender (8-gallon). The former didn’t provide enough water for my trips, while the latter would not fit on my roof rack due to the lack of adjustability of my crossbars. While there are hitch-mount options, they are not aesthetically pleasing in my opinion.

Product Overview

The Overlander Tank aims to be the Goldilocks of the bunch with a 5-gallon capacity. I was intrigued by its new design, the sleek finish, blue accents, and increased capacity. To top it off, it brings an all-new MOLLE panel mount. This mount offers an unlimited number of mounting options, particularly with the majority of the overlanding scene utilizing MOLLE window panels and roof racks.

One of the differences between this model and the other models is that it cannot be mounted to your hitch. To me, it is not a big loss; I prefer to mount it on the side panel or up front on my Gobi rack. What I miss from my previous model is that the Day Tank had an accessory that you could bolt onto the side of the tank, allowing you to rest the nozzle. I found it handy because I didn’t have to worry about the nozzle lying on the ground and getting dirty.

Speaking of nozzles, the Day Tank had an 8 ft hose, and the new Overlander is equipped with a 16 ft hose. This was a huge win for me. There were times when I had the Day Tank mounted to the rear of the rig, and I needed to use it to rinse something off. I was limited by the 8ft and would create extra work by having to remove it from the mount itself.

Living in the city, one feature that I look for in products is whether they can be secured with a lock. The Day Tank mount had the capability of adding a padlock. This gave peace of mind, especially when you are leaving your rig in the city. The Overlander is securely bolted down to the mount, with the option to secure it with a lock. You can use Loctite to try and prevent someone from simply unbolting it, but it’s not as secure as a lock.

The tank’s dimensions are 13H x 31.5L x 4.9W (inches). The slim design does not block my view while it is mounted on my side panel. I recommend filling the tank while it is already mounted. Completely full; the tank weighs 54.7 lbs. (18.7 lbs. empty). It features multiple pressurization methods, including self-pressurization, a pump cap, and a Schrader valve. It is food-grade safe and can store fresh water.

What’s Included

• Overlander 5-Gallon Tank
• Pump Cap
• 5-Pattern High-Pressure Spray Nozzle
• 16-Foot Hose
• CNC-Machined MOLLE Mounting Bracket

Installation (Gobi Rack)

Tools Required

• 3/16″ Allen wrench
• 13mm wrench

With many companies now providing exterior MOLLE panels for their roof racks, I mounted mine to the exterior panel of the Gobi rack. Both of my kids are able to reach the WaterPORT and don’t need my assistance using it.

Initially, I had it installed on top of the rack. However, it was out of reach for my family, making filling it a bit more challenging. I am 5’11” and I was able to use it just fine when it was installed on top, but decided to shift it to the side for easier access.

The side panel was the ideal location because it fit like a glove! I first installed the provided MOLLE bracket on the GOBI panel and then mounted the Overlander tank. It comes with (4) Allen-head bolts to secure it to the panel. I would suggest adding Loctite to the bolts, as they became loose after several miles of driving.

Final Thoughts

What I noticed is that after a few months, the sun started to fade the blue anodized accents. WaterPORT does not provide replacements for these. However, you could potentially sand it down and paint it a different color.

Overall, the Overlander is a great addition to my rig because it has held up really well, just like my previous tanks. Knowing that even my kids can use it without my assistance is a huge win. I will miss the number of accessories its predecessor had, and I hope WaterPORT will introduce some accessories in the future after receiving customer feedback.

The 5-gallon capacity is the perfect amount for day trips, and we recommend this to those who seek a durable water tank with a slim design and self-pressurizing capabilities. Lastly, WaterPORT provides great customer service, which is the perfect cherry on top.