By Beau Martonik 

From the steep ridges of Montana bear country to remote eastern whitetail spots, having a truck that’s reliable, tough, and well-equipped is non-negotiable for my lifestyle. Since upgrading from the old heavy Chevy to a 2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Sport SR5, I’ve built it out to suit long-haul travel, overland hunting, and emergency preparedness. Below is a full breakdown of my setup — gear I trust and use every day.

---

 

The Truck Platform: 2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Sport (SR5)

I chose the 2023 Tundra for its reputation for reliability. While I originally wanted the TRD Off-Road, I saved money going with the Sport and added aftermarket upgrades. With 40,000+ miles already on it, it's performed everywhere I’ve needed it to go.

---

Exterior Upgrades & Recovery

• DiamondBack HD Bed Cover – Lockable and durable, folds open for easy access. For extended hunting trips where I'm camping, I will use the Yakima Overhaul HD bars and a GFC Rooftop Tent on top of the Diamondback.
  

• Westcott Designs Leveling Kit – Keeps a factory-like ride while allowing 35" BFG All-Terrain T/A KO2s (my go-to tire for longevity and performance).
  

• Toyota Predator Rock Sliders – OEM sliders from the TRD Pro for frame and side protection.
  

• TRD Skid Plate – For additional underbody protection.
  

• Airlift LoadLifter 5000 Rear Airbags – Essential to counter the Tundra’s rear coil spring sag when loaded with gear.
  
  

---

Bed Storage & Toolbox Setup

Everyday Essentials:

• Tool Bag: Flashlights, Allen wrenches, tire pressure gauges, crescent wrenches, and more.
  

• Straps: 4 ratchet straps, bungee cords, and 30 ft of heavy-duty lifting straps.
  

• Tow Recovery Gear: Multiple tow straps, including Uncharted Supply Extractor.
  

• Greenworks Pro 16” Electric Chainsaw: Lightweight, clean, and powerful.
  

• Hi-Lift 48” Jack: Also used with a come-along for self-recovery.
  

• Shovel: Military-style foldable shovel.
  

• Hoyman Tree Saw & Drop Hitch: For cutting limbs and towing versatility.

• Estwing Fireside Friend Axe - splitting, hammering, etc.

• Miscellaneous Gear: Chain oil, cot, YETI coolers, gaiters, and a scouting pack.
  
  

---

Emergency & Survival Gear (Inside Cab)

Stored behind the passenger seat in a Sitka Drifter 50L Duffel, this kit ensures I’m always prepared:

• Uncharted Supply Zeus Air Jump Starter/Inflator: Inflates airbags and tires; jumps batteries; recharges devices.
  

• Heather’s Choice Dehydrated Meal & snacks.
  

• Jetboil Stove Kit with coffee & spork.
  

• Sawyer Tap Filter + Sawyer Squeeze Filter – For clean water anywhere. Stored inside a MTN OPS Flash Bag

• Fire Extinguisher

• MTN OPS Headlamp + Zippo Paracord

• Garmin Montana 750i GPS with inReach for mapping and emergency comms.
  

• Uncharted Supply First Aid Plus Kit – Fully stocked, waterproof, MOLLE-compatible.
  

• Sitka Lowland Puffy Jacket, CVA Beanie, extra gloves – Cold weather backups.
  
  

---

Connectivity & Power

• Jackery Explorer 1000 Power Station – Charges laptop, phones, and powers my Starlink system.
  

• Starlink Mini System – Packs into a small backpack; gives me internet access even in remote locations for uploading content and staying connected.
  
  

---

 

Comfort Kit (Under Seat)

• Sitka Kelvin Aerolite 30 Sleeping Bag in Marmot waterproof compression bag.
  

• Blanket, Bobos Emergency Bars, Sitka Stratus Gloves – Always ready for a cold night or breakdown.
  
  

---

Cab Gear & Final Touches

• Turtlebox Speaker – Nicest waterproof speaker I’ve used
  

• Maven 8x30 Binos – My go-to for glassing during spring scouting.
  

• Cut-Resistant Leather Gloves – For winching, sawing, or loading sharp gear.
  

• Sawyer Picaridin Spray – Bug protection, always within reach.
  

• Sitka Drifter Hip Pack – Holds pistol, keys, and earbuds for quick runs or hikes.
  

• Streamlight Flashlight – Bright, durable, and perfect for blood trailing.
  

• Case Trapper Knife, 2-way Radios – For comms on the road or hunting with friends.
  
  

---

 

Stay Connected

Like this setup? Be sure to subscribe to the East Meets West Hunt Podcast and follow me on YouTube and Instagram for more gear breakdowns, hunt recaps, and behind-the-scenes content from the road.