The way I understand it, overlanding is more about the journey – traveling through different terrains, exploring remote areas, and sometimes going for weeks or even months at a time. While boondocking, on the other hand, is just camping without hookups in your RV (typically for shorter periods) and doesn’t necessarily involve off-roading or long-term travel.
Overlanding is off-roading and exploring mixed with “car camping”. Boondocking is basically camping off-grid—no hookups, no amenities, and usually just parking your RV or van wherever it’s allowed.
I think everybody above kinda hit it on the head. I would just add, overlanding is about exploration, or even like @kdewall mentioned, the journey. Think of it as an off-roading adventure.
I have a buddy who has a pretty nice Toyota Landcruiser that he’s completely outfitted for overlanding. I know he’s done several excursions in Utah and Arizona. Sounds fun, but not sure i need any more hobbies. lol