There’s nothing like hopping into a truck and exploring the farthest-flung parts of North America. The rugged frames, big engines, high towing capacity, and tall ground clearance of trucks produce an unforgettable adrenaline rush when you head off-road and hit the highways. By looking at used trucks for sale, you can get an amazing value on a rugged, stylish, and powerful adventure vehicle with the most desired features.
The only downside is that there are so many used trucks to consider. Some are better for adventure than others, though, so knowing what should be on your watch list will let you get to your next trip sooner. I’ve done the hard work and compiled five adventure-ready trucks to look for, from proven steeds to hidden gems. Whether your idea of adventure is roaring over dunes, overlanding through the deep woods, towing a camper to your favorite spot, or climbing the Appalachians, a used truck is out there to be your down-and-dirty limousine.
Ram 2500 HD Rebel
The Rebel trim debuted on the Ram in 2016, and while it’s available on the Ram 1500, the 2500 Rebel is my bet when getting a used truck. Heavy-duty trucks are stronger than light-duty trucks, but they admittedly cost more, making them a stretch for many truck enthusiasts to afford when new. On the used market, though, you can snag one at a fraction of the price.
Some people prefer the no-holds-barred Ram 2500 Power Wagon off-roader, but I think the Rebel is the better play, as it offers many great off-road features with superior towing and payload capabilities. A 2500 Rebel with the legendary 6.4L HEMI V8 engine has 410 hp, 429 lb-ft of torque, a towing capacity of over 17,000 lbs, and a more than 4,000-lb payload to fuel your adventures. Want more pull to get over rocks? Find a used 2500 Power Wagon with a Cummins 6.7L turbo-diesel engine with 850 lb-ft of torque.
Beyond this, the Ram 2500 Rebel has a lift kit plus off-road-tuned shocks and springs. Be sure to look for a used model with the optional Warn winch. As a high-level Ram trim, it also gets the best infotainment tech to help you navigate or enjoy some music.
Toyota Tacoma
Not every adventure-ready truck needs to be a full-size pickup. Sometimes a midsize model is best for navigating tough terrain and enjoying highway pep. The Toyota Tacoma is among my favorite adventure trucks regardless of size, and I’m not the only one, as it’s been one of Toyota’s best-selling models since its 1995 debut. These trucks are reliable and practical, but they know how to have a good time, and the smaller size may be just right if your idea of adventure is narrow backcountry roads and trails.
The fourth-generation Tacoma was introduced for the 2024 model year, but there’s still a lot of value in third-generation models, as they’re known for having great off-road performance. I’m particularly enthralled by the V6 Tacoma, which offers 278 hp and enough towing for plenty of goodies. Unlike many other midsize trucks, the Tacoma has multiple bed lengths and body styles for the personalization you crave. It’s also known for great off-roading performance and safety equipment.
The trim lineup has evolved over the years, but I recommend looking for any Tacoma with “TRD” in the name. As a part of the Toyota Racing Development family, trucks like the pavement-defying Tacoma TRD Off-Road, street-smart TRD Sport, and sophisticated TRD Pro remain frontrunners on the adventure truck landscape.
Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and Overland
As another impressive midsize truck, the Gladiator is based on the Jeep Wrangler, so you know it has a strong adventure foundation. While all used Jeep Gladiators offer fine adventure performance on-road and off-road, look for the Rubicon and Overland trims. The Rubicon continues its tradition from the Wrangler of being the ultimate hardcore off-roader, sporting extra-large all-terrain tires, a special crawling gear ratio, protective skid plates, rock rails, a front sway bar disconnect, and other ways to link with nature. Meanwhile, the Overland trim offered until 2023 combines woodland exploration with on-road style and added tech features like rear USB ports.
In any Gladiator setup, you’re getting a tenacious truck. Its V6 engine generates 285 hp, which is plenty for a midsize pickup and is still available with a manual transmission to please the diehards. Some used models can be purchased with an EcoDiesel turbo-diesel engine to give you extra torque. The Gladiator has a towing capacity of over 7,600 lbs for powersports equipment and small campers, and it has a lot more headroom and rear legroom than some rivals to keep everyone comfy. Add Jeep’s fabled customizability and durability for a remarkable adventure pickup with a foundation that should give you many more years of fun.
Chevy Silverado 1500 with Z71 Package
Any used Silverado 1500 is a solid adventure truck, but one sporting the legendary Z71 off-road package is the ultimate edge. The package may vary a bit from year to year, but you can count on special off-road shocks, a locking rear differential, larger wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates to be among the treats. Traditionally, it’s been an available upgrade with the Silverado LT and LTZ trims. You’ll know a used truck has the package if there’s a Z71 badge on the left front fender. In 2019, Chevy added the Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss, which include the Z71 loadout, giving used adventure truck buyers even more choices.
These trucks will be the stars of on-road adventures, too. The Silverado is known for having a plethora of powertrains based on whether you want to maximize power, torque, towing capacity, or payload. The best configuration for each can let you haul over 13,000 lbs or load at least 2,250 lbs of cargo, setting you up for road trips, vacations, and even summer-long camping getaways. There are also three bed and three cab choices that can be combined in many ways. Even audiophiles and sports enthusiasts can find a used Silverado they like, making it a versatile choice with great value.
Honda Ridgeline Black Edition
I’m sure a few purists are pointing their noses at the idea of a unibody truck being adventure-ready, but hear me out. Not every adventurer needs a midsize truck that can go on expert-level rocky trails or tow a giant utility trailer. Some want a truck that balances light and moderate off-roading with a great driving experience in town.
This is where the Ridgeline is primed for memorable exploits. It offers some of the smoothest, softest driving dynamics of any truck on the market, which is a godsend for hours-long rides. At the same time, it uses torque-vectoring AWD to direct power when the terrain gets slippery or rough. The 5,000-lb towing capacity is more than enough for a pop-up camper or a couple of ATVs, and the tailgate folds down to give you an extra two feet. There’s even a lockable bead storage compartment to protect everything from generators to ski poles.
It can be difficult to combine the best aspects of a car and an adventure truck, but the Ridgeline pulls it off. The Black Edition, which has premium speakers, more USB ports, ventilated front seats, and other creature comforts, will maximize your used-truck budget.
Pay Less for Adventure
You don’t need to get the newest truck on the lot to experience the best adventure the world has to offer. These used midsize, full-size, and heavy-duty pickups are like getting a discount on a ticket to paradise. Over the road or off the road, by yourself or with friends, hauling suitcases or side-by-sides, you can find a used adventure truck you’ll love. Any season can be adventure season, so take the plunge on a new-to-you truck and plan your next trip (or wing it if you prefer).
