I agree with the idea of not buying a ton of stuff starting off. You tend to buy stuff you regret and that money is better spent on trips.

I also appreciate the desire to have an “Expedition-y” looking rig. If you are looking for a little “Farkel” (functional sparkle), a Yakima or Thule rack/basket would give you a place to put a Hi-Lift (get the wheel lift attachment), a jerry can, shovel, and a light bar. Look for used options on the rack on Craigslist or wherever and you can save a lot. Don’t cheap out in a on the Jerry can. Pretty much all cheap Jerry cans leak. Not worth it. There are also a couple companies that offer inexpensive puck-style lifts for the Outback. Some AT tires, maybe a couple sand ladders. You’ll look the part and have some useful tools when you run into some unexpected terrain out there. I’d avoid adding too much though. They aren’t built to have a bunch of extra weight thrown on/in.

If it is just you (and maybe someone you like to snuggle with), the Outbacks are big enough to sleep in.