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Apple and App Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.19 Bus Turned Tiny Home A multi-year project turned reality
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It’s Snow Problem: Winter RV Renovation
Couple shares their winter RV renovation
40 Military Family Camps
How military members can take advantage of these resources
The Takacs’ family are weekend warriors with an epic twist. Throughout the week, they are hardworking students, teachers and scientists, but when the weekend hits, they transform into explorers. Their family truly takes advantage of every weekend they can and hits the road to find the best trails and moonlit skies. When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t end for this adventurous family - Alison and Jason capture stunning astrophotography to share with their followers! Follow their journey on Instagram; they truly are one-of-a-kind.
WELCOME TO YEAR FOUR of Rootless Living magazine! This has been such a journey, and I want to thank you for joining us along the way.
Back in 2016, when I was researching the idea of going full time, I was shocked to learn how many people were traveling full time while still working. Of course, I knew about people who retired, sold everything, and jumped into an RV, but I had no clue younger people and families were doing it as well.
I assumed that if this many people—already more than 1 million at that point—were RVing full time, there must be a magazine about this lifestyle. Well, there wasn’t, and I put a pin in that idea until just a few years later.
In 2019, Nikki and I decided to launch a magazine about full-time RVing / traveling while working / the digital nomad lifestyle, and we couldn’t have predicted the community that would grow with the magazine. We’ve heard many stories now of people who decided to give this lifestyle a try because of Rootless Living— finding a story in the magazine of someone they could relate to made them realize they could do it as well.
Our goal in 2023 is to continue to inspire people to make the leap and take control of their most valuable assets—time and experiences. We would love to share your story as well. And if you’re thinking, “There’s nothing unique about my story,” I can tell you for sure that you’re wrong.
Something new you will see in 2023 is how we divide the magazine. Since the beginning, our focuses have been TRAVEL, WORK, and EXPLORE. The original idea was that the TRAVEL section would be more about the types of RVs, and how or where you were traveling. But this would sometimes get confused with EXPLORE.
So we have decided in 2023 to segment our content with LIVE, WORK, and EXPLORE as the main themes instead.
LIVE will encompass the lifestyle aspect. We will dive deep into the many different kinds of vehicles that people choose to make their home, and also into how people travel full time. We will help you find out where to go and how to get there with the latest products and RVs. This is also the section where we will introduce you to people who have taken the leap and tell their stories.
WORK will be about how people are making money on the road and how they are actually getting that work done—especially if it is remote or digital work. In addition to work options for digital nomads, you will also see us reporting on seasonal jobs and creative ways to make a living while on the road—think more hands-on or traditional work.
EXPLORE will be about the amazing things you can experience while on this journey. We want to make sure people see and understand how it’s possible to truly achieve work-life balance, and have time for exploring, hobbies, and trying new things. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day of LIVING and WORKING and forget to actually ENJOY life, even in this lifestyle.
I hope you are excited about these changes. We have a few more coming your way, and I’ll bring you up to speed on those in the next issue.
Until the next issue … stay Rootless.
Demian Ross, Publisher @demianross demian@rootlessliving.com Nikki Kirk, Editor-in-Chief @nikkirk7 nikki@rootlessliving.comIf there’s one thing Rootless Living readers have in common, it’s the ability to think outside the box. This issue is exciting because it showcases that mentality through many different perspectives. From a tiny trailer that’s pulled behind a vespa to RVing on less than $1000 per month, our authors share their various methods of ‘living rootless.’ I hope the articles within these pages inspire you to disrupt your perception of RV living, traveling full time and working on the road. There’s no one-size fits all approach, but there is always a way to make your dreams a reality. If you have an article that you want to share with our readers, please email us at collab@rootlessliving.comwe’d love to hear from you!
Jess Stiles Managing EditorPublisher Demian Ross
Chief Editor Nikki Kirk
Managing Editor Jess Stiles
Editorial Assistant L. Merredith
Art Director Melinda Gonzalez
Operations Manager Jamie May
Copy Editor Kristin Skagg
Director of Advertisers & Sponsors Richard Kirby
LET’S
@rootlessliving
ROOTLESS LIVING MAGAZINE PO Box 437, Jennings, OK 74038
Disclaimer: One of the great things about digital publications is the ability to link you directly to the products or services you want to hear more about. Some of the links in this issue are affiliate links where we earn commissions on goods or services you buy. These commissions help us to continue to publish the magazine. Rootless Living is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@rootlessliving. com
Copyright © 2022 Blue Compass Media LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions.
Dana Carpenter
Gretchen Watson
Ashley and Colin Warren
Katelyn Newstate
Tom Burick
Cameo Swanson
Ryan Gower
Patty Gill
Melissa Lahr
Amanda Boles
Olivia Sain
Celeste Orr
Erika and Ryan Fullerton
Jared and Rebekah Wells
Trevor and Rae Smithson
Ashley St. Germain
Jo Brown
Angie Lea
Brandon and Kristine Wing
Ronnie Dennis
David and Lauren Robinson
Greg Williams
Kate Flemister
Want
@trekersorg
Part of the Team: A Great Park Hosting Gig
Ari and Jessi enjoy traveling the country one hike, paddle or adventure at a time in their 4-wheel drive Class B van. Always happy to share their experiences and what they’ve learned along the way, you can read their travel guides and tips on their website trekers.org or on their YouTube channel Trekers.
@pennypinchingglobetrotter
How to RV on $1000 per Month
Before becoming a full time traveler Melissa spent twenty years as an executive in the nonprofit world. It’s those experiences that taught her how to be a penny pincher. She has been traveling full time with her husband Wade for over five years and they do it on a budget. In addition to traveling in their RV they grab their backpacks and travel abroad as often as they can. They share tips on how to travel on a budget at pennypinchingglobetrotter.com
SOPHIE DARSY
@ryan_and_sophie_sailing
Working While Sailing Around the World
Sophie is one half of the YouTube channel Ryan and Sophie Sailing. Ryan & Sophie share the realities of living on a sailboat, including their relationship and the challenges they face together and apart; Sometimes, that means photos of sherbet-colored sunsets and dolphins in the bow wave. Other Times, it means almost breaking down mere hours into an Atlantic crossing and sharing their anxiety in facing the challenges ahead.
KATHRYN FRAZER
@adventuresofaplusk
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Adam, Kathryn, and Kona are an adventurous married couple and their pup living on the road in their self-converted sprinter van! Find them driving all over scoping out the best coffee shops, eating tacos and ice cream, and enjoying nature. For their detailed travel guides, check out adventuresofaplusk.com and their YouTube channel, Adventures of A+K
“Every
“‘National
“We
“It’s not about getting rid of the madness altogether—it’s about finding a healthy replacement.”
“I
SO YOU’VE DECIDED to make a lifestyle change, joining approximately 1 million other travelers who are living life on the open road. While the choice to RV full time brings elements of adventure and excitement, the reality of significantly reducing your living space also comes with a new set of challenges, both physically and relationally. You’re probably asking yourself questions like, “Where do I put everything?” and, if you’re traveling with a partner or family, “How are we really going to live together in 300 square feet?” Here are a few tips as you begin your tiny-space transition.
Space. When it comes to making the most of limited space, 3M products (or similar) are your friend. RVs do not take kindly to hammers and nails, so the invention of removable hooks is a game changer. There are a variety of options, and the strongest ones can hold up to 5 pounds of weight. Whether you need to hang a purse, jackets, a broom, or keys, you will find a hook that gets the job done.
Storage. Most newer RVs have maximized storage options. Cupboards and closets are helpful, but being able to both view and access your belongings isn’t always easy. Containers, baskets, and organizers come in every shape, size, and material. Not being a natural organizer, it took me several attempts to find a system that wasn’t too overwhelming while also making sure everything had its place. Our largest closets had a rod that spanned the entire width of what would be a pantry, and we added a board for separation to create a part closet, part pantry solution. It’s not pretty, but it does the trick, and we can always improve the aesthetics later.
Get creative. If an RV has any storage on either side of the bed, it’s usually a small closet with no shelving.Consider adding hanging bins, which come in every height, width, and depth imaginable, and essentially give you an easily-accessible dresser. You can also store items under the bed, but holding up the mattress while retrieving what you need is usually a two-person job. Hydraulics were our solution—we installed a set that can hold the bed up indefinitely, which also helps our backs.
Now, let’s talk about the reality of sharing these small quarters with other people! The adjustment does not happen overnight, and the novelty often wears off as tension rises. Escaping to the basement or bedroom for some solitude is no longer an option. So how do you navigate a transition when you’re suddenly spending every waking moment together?
Stay positive. Think of this experience as an opportunity, not a sacrifice. Because you have shed the commitments and responsibilities of your stationary life, you now have the time to explore, create new memories, and reconnect.
Patience. Resist the desire to comment on every single action you observe in your partner or family. Being in view of one another 24/7 makes this a natural response, but it serves no purpose and can often lead to arguments. Remember they are adapting too. A little patience with each other’s quirks goes a long way.
Time alone. When the circumstances and weather allow, give everyone regular, dedicated time to be alone in the RV. Just because you are always together doesn’t mean you have to do everything together! Knowing you have a few hours to yourself, even if it’s only once a week, will add to your supply of patience.
Make a bucket list. Do you want to visit every national park, or maybe all the MLB or NFL stadiums? Perhaps you are foodies and want to sample the culinary offerings each state is famous for. Having something to look forward to at each destination helps stave off the monotony.
Remember your why. Whether this decision to RV full time is a permanent or seasonal one, something—or several things—motivated you to do it. Write down your reasons and keep the list in view. If you’re tempted to give up on the road life, it will remind you why you’re here in the first place.
As with any lifestyle change or new habit, adapting is never smooth, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But it will happen. And when it does, you will be the veterans giving your sage advice to the novices.
Follow Dana on Instagram at @themobileemptynest
By Ashley and Colin Warren
WE WERE IN a much different place a few years ago. We had a beautiful house in the mountains of North Carolina that was way too big for the two of us. We had steady jobs as a kindergarten teacher and a welder/ironworker. We adopted a sweet pup to love. We had everything we needed, but it felt like we were missing something, and we realized what we were missing was happiness. We were drowning in the “American Dream” and had lost ourselves along the way. We missed our time. We missed each other. We missed doing the things we loved and what brought us together in the first place.
All of this led us to the crazy idea of turning a retired school bus into our home on wheels. Colin had always dreamed of building a home, so we went for it. We bought a 1999 Bluebird school bus in 2019. Soon after, we sold our house and most of our belongings, packed up the bus with all we had left, and moved to Florida to be with family and start this project. We have spent two and a half years converting this bus into our home. We completely tore it down to the bare metal and rebuilt it to what it is now. Many people ask us why our conversion took so long, and the simple answer is balance. During those two and a half years, we had a baby boy. Colin worked 50-plus hours a week, leaving only the weekends to devote to the bus, and not much free
time for anything else. Plus, we did this all while still trying to be a new mother and father, son and daughter, and wife and husband. The balance was, without a doubt, the most challenging part of the process.
After spending years building out our bus, we were so ready to take the leap, move in, and hit the road. So we did, with our son, Zephyr, our pup, Banjo, and our cat, Kitty. We were bright eyed with this dream and very much caught up in the idea of “bus life.” You see these gorgeous homes on wheels online, with peaceful music playing over the walkthrough video and the doors opening to epic views. It seems silly to us now that we thought that’s how it would be. While it definitely can be a reality, it’s certainly not the reality 24/7. Bus life for us meant constant
work, from getting water, to keeping such a small space clean, and getting from one place to the next.
Within our first week of moving into the bus, we had damage from two severe storms, got stuck in soft mud, spent a night on the edge of a cliff terrified of rolling down and losing all we had built, and ran out of water way too fast. The job we had lined up to keep us going fell through. We were stressed beyond measure to make the lifestyle, which we’d expected to be a chance to get away from the stress, work for us. That is the honesty of our reality. Beyond all the hard work, we’ve had many irreplaceable moments as well. Those moments we dreamed about while building the bus did become a reality—our son taking baths in our kitchen sink, the slow mornings of sipping coffee on the couch with the wood stove burning, and the time spent outside exploring and watching our son take in the world around him. This lifestyle is hard. Tiny living is hard. The adjustment was hard, especially with a wild toddler and a large, clumsy pup. Then again, doesn’t any change or move have its difficulties?
This bus has taught us many lessons we needed to work through. Reading this may make you think this lifestyle isn’t worth all the hard work. We are here to tell you that it is absolutely worth it. No matter where you are in life, personal growth is a necessity, and turning this bus into our home has been nothing but personal growth. It has led us to learn what we value, what we cherish, and what we want out of life. And even more importantly, what we want for our son.
It is truly amazing to look back and see that there are many rivers, but they all lead to the sea. We all take our own routes and flow our own ways, but the destination is always the same—happiness, love, and a life spent living. We don’t know how long we will be in this chapter, but we know we wouldn’t trade this bus or all we have been through for the world. It’s given us some of our best lessons and most unforgettable memories, and has made us realize the value in “there’s no place like home.”
Follow Ashley and Colin on Instagram @strayleif
IT’S FUNNY HOW much things can change in 48 hours. We were having an average day, then we found a stray dog in a ditch, became extremely attached, and gave him away—all in less than two days.
A few years before we moved into our van, we had to put our 16-year-old dog down, and we were convinced the void would be impossible to fill. Travel-hungry and ready to explore, not having a pet in the van allowed us to be completely untethered. However, the years without a dog were becoming more and more heartbreaking. We love dogs and miss having one.
Anyone traveling full time with pets will tell you that it’s a sacrifice, but always worth it. Since we started van travel without a dog, we knew exactly what we would be giving up if we kept Buddy, a lost beagle we found in a remote wooded area of West Virginia. We were driving in a secluded section of New River Gorge National Park when I suddenly saw the head of a small dog pop up out of the ditch. I approached him slowly, not wanting to scare him away, but he came running up to me and jumped into my arms. He was skinny, and his whole body wiggled with affection.
It was obvious we couldn’t leave him there. We sidelined our plans to explore the national park and headed toward the local humane society. They weren’t able to take him, so we headed to a vet clinic
nearby to see if he was microchipped. Unfortunately, he wasn’t, and we needed to figure out what to do with him. He was underweight, covered in ticks, and desperately needed a bath. As we drove around gathering supplies for him, he was like velcro to my chest.
We gave him a bath in a parking lot and removed several ticks, a process we would have to repeat a few times. I immediately started calling and emailing dog rescues in the area, an effort that was a complete dead end. Shelters and foster homes were full, leaving us thinking we might have Buddy longer than we expected.
On our second day of caring for Buddy, we were cooling off at the river and trying to see if Buddy was a water dog. (He wasn’t—he would only swim if someone carried him out into the river, and then he would only swim to shore!) While we were there, a group of recent college graduates came by and were admiring our newfound hound dog. One of the young women was especially taken with him, and we offered her the opportunity to adopt him. She said, “Are you serious?” We confirmed we couldn’t keep him and she immediately accepted! It was obviously meant to be and we are happy it worked out so well.
THIS STORY COULD have ended much differently, though! Katelyn and Howard Newstate (@NewstateNomads) were traveling through Mexico in March of 2020 with their two puggles, Piper and Ella, and adding more paws to the RV was the last thing on their minds. When the pandemic hit and Mexico
issued a national stay-athome order, they were lucky enough to find a beautiful RV park to quarantine in. Street dogs are common in Mexico, and it can be hard to resist the urge to rescue them all, but Katelyn and Howard already had two dogs in 200 square feet. But as they say, dogs choose you, and that’s what happened on day two of the Newstates’ beach quarantine.
A skinny, dirty white dog with black spots ran down the beach, and there was an instant connection. Scout was playful and loved attention, but she was covered in fleas and ticks and had abrasions down her side, plus a broken tail. After two months, which included a bath, flea treatment, tick removal, veterinary care, and one too many nights of Katelyn crying to Howard about leaving
the dog on the island, they formulated a plan to bring her back to the United States. Even if they didn’t keep her long term, it would be an opportunity to help her find a forever family. The next big hurdle was getting her to wear a collar and leash! On the first day of training, she ran away down the beach, and that’s when they discovered Scout, formerly Pinky, actually did have a family.
After the emotional discovery, there was a conversation with the dad, who graciously asked Katelyn and Howard to take the dog if they loved her. She had been gifted to the family as a puppy and they already had another dog. Ultimately, feeding and caring for her was a financial burden, and he recognized that she would have a better life with Katelyn and Howard.
It wasn’t a decision the Newstates made lightly, but two years later, Scout has changed their lives for the better. And they saved hers—she was heartworm positive and had a tick-borne illness, but today, she is happy and healthy and has traveled to three countries and more than 25 states. Adopting a third dog while living on the road hasn’t been without its challenges, but every day they’re so thankful to have their little beach dog as part of their adventure family.
IF YOU COME across a stray animal, you may have time to make a decision about their future, or there may be no time at all. L and Andy (@soulofaseeker) learned this when they found a stranded kitten on the side of Interstate 95.
“There's a cat there!” Andy immediately pulled over, allowing L to dash from the car. The frail, bony kitten struggled to walk; his back leg hung lifeless behind his body, dragging along the grass. The kitten was exhausted, and collapsed when L approached. They picked him up and focused on finding help. As I experienced when trying to find a home for Buddy the beagle, many shelters and clinics were full and could not help with the injured kitten. L and Andy finally found a clinic that could help and rushed to the emergency veterinary hospital, where they were given
two options: pay for the medical attention the kitten needed or forgo medical treatment.
L and Andy decided to try to save the kitten’s life, so he was scanned for a microchip and examined. He had a broken leg that needed to be amputated. Unfortunately, the clinic didn’t have a surgeon available right away, so L and Andy had to take the helpless kitten home. Knowing they could not afford to pay for the amputation, they focused on finding an organization that could facilitate treatment and adoption. Numerous calls ended in voicemails with no calls back, until a local humane society finally came through.
The kitten was taken in for immediate surgery, then placed with a foster mom who fell in love with him and ultimately adopted him. The best advice L and Andy have for those who find an animal is to not give up. There are people out there who can help, so keep calling and reaching out until you find a solution, because that animal can have the best second life.
Expandable Solar
Scalable system designs
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SOMETIMES LIFE SURPRISES you. Or in my case, “blindsides” might be a better word.
I’m a special needs school teacher, and about a year ago, I decided to make a little foam camping trailer I could tow with my 1962 Vespa motor scooter. The project started out as a surprise for my students. I teach a camping club on Fridays, and I thought it would be fun to build a disposable foam teardrop trailer for my students to play with. I wanted to make it functional, so the students could cook out of the galley and use it like a real camping trailer. My intention was to knock it apart and recycle it at the end of the school year.
I started by gathering some friends to help with the project—Rob is a talented CAD guy, Lucy an expert woodworker, and Jesse a skilled welder. Rob and I designed the trailer from a photo I found of a 1940s teardrop made in Canada after World War II. We used the photo to create cut files and built a miniature model out of wood.
Jesse and I built the frame of the teardrop out of scrap aluminum. Lacking a proper workshop, we built it in his backyard—two days of fabrication and welding in the blistering Arizona sun!
I transported a truckload of scraps and materials to my friend Lucy’s house for the final assembly. Lucy is an absurdly talented
woodworker and crafts person, and she graciously donated the full use of her shop for the project. This is where a minor miracle occurred and the project changed direction.
As Lucy and I started to assemble the trailer, passersby would see us working with the garage door up. They would smile and approach us, asking tons of questions about the trailer. As more people viewed the project, I realized this little teardrop was far more than the sum of its parts—it had become a conduit of joy and human connection. Every time someone approached, the
whimsical little camper completely disarmed them. It allowed people to approach me in a way that immediately fostered joy and created a space for real conversation. I could feel mutual joy in a tangible way. It was magic.
We all felt it—Lucy, Jesse, Rob, me, and everyone else in the orbit of this oversized toy. Because of this, we began to put more thought, effort, and craftsmanship into the trailer. The idea of disposability was quickly discarded, and in the end, we created a beautiful vintage-inspired teardrop trailer that was fully functional and weighed only
170 pounds! The main body structure was built out of extruded sheet foam and the outer skin was painted canvas. Best of all, my vintage scooter was able to pull the camper quite easily.
On its maiden voyage to a local campground, it literally stopped traffic. People were pulling over to take photos and videos, some even following me for several miles. The teardrop received the same attention at the campground—I was trying to record a video to post on YouTube and I was comically interrupted every few minutes. I’d never really experienced anything like this in
my life. It made me feel so connected to everyone around me. Building on that feeling, I started a YouTube channel in order to reach out to the world and share my adventures. I purposely don’t speak in my videos. Instead, I provide closed captioned commentary in every major language around the globe. I was hoping for a few thousand views when I posted my first video, but to my shock, it’s gotten about 3 million, and it’s still going strong. The cultural exchange from the channel has exceeded my highest expectations; I have viewers-turned-friends in every corner of the globe.
I’ve been traveling about a year with the little trailer attached to the back of my scooter, and it’s been glorious. It’s changed my perception of the world and the people in it. We all share a lot more common ground than we realize. There’s a real alchemy here—we turned foam and fabric into unexpected joy and human connection. Or maybe it’s an unintentional circumstance transformed into purpose and awakening. In either case, could I have asked for anything more?
You can watch Tom’s Vespa/teardrop adventure unfold on his YouTube channel, The Tiny Side of Tiny. A full time lapse video of the build is available on Lucy’s YouTube channel, The L Wood by Lucy.
WHEN YOU SEE how easily things in your life—or even your life itself—can be lost, it makes you face one big question: How do I want to live?
At a time in my life when I was the happiest I had ever been, a collision set me off in a whole new direction to living the life of my dreams and traveling full time. But it didn’t come without struggle. It took time to bring my dream to fruition, even after I made my decision.
After growing up in the Midwest, I followed my dreams out West and found ample opportunities in the corporate world. On my morning commute one day, traffic slowed, but the truck and trailer behind me didn’t. The driver slammed into my car and took off. I spent a day in the emergency room, years recovering, and tens of thousands of dollars trying to get my life back. Nearly everything I had was taken away in an instant, but I still had my life, and for that I was grateful.
But after the hit-and-run, I was terrified of driving! I almost died on the road, so why would I want to live on it?
Well, at that time, I didn’t. In fact, all I wanted to do was stay home and stay safe. But the seed was planted with me then that maybe I didn’t want to try to gain back all I had lost, and maybe there was a simpler way to live. Maybe
I wanted to do more than pursue the version of the American Dream I’d had before, and instead create my own definition of the American Dream and what it meant for me.
Ultimately, the way I decided I wanted to live looked nothing like the way I was living before.
With therapy, I was able to begin driving again. A little more life happened,
and I still had a feeling that I wasn’t being true to myself. I continued on in a painful marriage that I didn’t want, living a life I didn’t want, until one day I decided to break free.
I was now freelancing for work. I had converted a cargo trailer that only needed a few minor upgrades to make it livable. So when everything in my life opened up for me to go, I hit the road.
With a simpler life and less to maintain, I had more time to write, more time to travel, and more time to visit people I loved who lived far away. It was my “now or never” moment, so I took it and ran with it.
Once I got out on the road, I quickly found ways to make this lifestyle work long-term, which I didn’t know was an option before. I found support on the road and other people like me. Most importantly, I faced all my fears, and nothing bad happened. I traveled for nearly a year by myself, and it was one of the best experiences of my life.
Life moves at a different pace when you’re on the road. Being detached from the world I was so attached to before gave me a peace and calm I never want to let go of.
My days were no longer dictated by a clock or a to-do list, but instead followed the rhythm of sunrises, sunsets, and seasons. I became in tune with nature in a way I’d never been before, and felt foolish for
just now seeing these things that were always there for me to see, but that I had never taken the time to look at.
My travels took me through 20 states. Sometimes I would travel with friends I made along the way, but most of the miles I logged were on my own.
Now that I’ve overcome my fear, the road feels like home to me. The road lets me be me, gives me the freedom I have always longed for, offers amazing views, and is a place where I will always be at peace.
After the car accident, I could have
never dreamed that the open road would do those things for me. Now, I could never imagine missing out on all of those experiences. It has helped to make me into who I am today as a mother, a partner, and a person.
Follow Jamie at @jypsythreadsTo read the full story, find The Proving Ground: A 12-Month Solo Road Trip Across America on Amazon in paperback and for Kindle.
By Cameo Swanson
DO YOU EVER wish you could live at the base of some of the best mountains in the United States to hit the slopes anytime you want? We are a Pacific Northwest couple that does just that. Ryan and I currently live full time in our RV named Marty and travel from ski resort to ski resort. Born and raised in Washington, we both grew up with a love for the outdoors. Knowing we wanted to customize and upgrade our RV for our specific lifestyle, we decided to do the renovation ourselves.
When brainstorming about keeping the RV warm, the first and most important improvement we made was a cheap DIY skirting. Skirting works by blocking the RV undercarriage from the wind, helping it retain heat. A professional RV skirt can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, and that simply was not in our budget. After some research, we found that used billboard vinyl, which is very similar to actual skirting material, can be purchased for a fraction of the price. We bought a 10 foot by 40 foot used billboard for about $60. We cut that in half lengthwise and had plenty of material to wrap the entire perimeter of the RV.
Taking into account how often we travel, we decided to use snaps so we could easily take the skirt on and off, instead of a more permanent fixation method like a heavy-duty tape. We had two options—adhesive snaps or drill-in snaps. Adhesives have the advantage of not having to drill into the sides of the RV, but the downside is extreme temperatures can make them fall off fairly easily. For that reason, we opted for the drill-in snaps.
The next logical step was to add additional insulation to the floor. We completely gutted the RV during our renovation, which gave us the chance to add 1/2-inch insulation under our new vinyl flooring. We opted for the highest-end foam board insulation for two reasons. First, it had the highest R-value, which is a rating for how much heat transfer a material allows. Second, it was the densest, which was important because we were laying our floor directly on top of it and needed the rigidity.
After laying out all the insulation on the floor and securing each sheet together with aluminum foil tape, we realized we had a significant amount left over. Instead of returning it, we decided to add insulation to the two corner walls our bed sits against. With the addition of the thinnest sheet of compress board we could find, our walls stay nice and warm.
After a couple of drives in the RV, it was easy to hear some whistling coming from areas around the door. Upon further inspection, we found significant air gaps, making it difficult to keep a regulated temperature inside. We filled every tiny crack we could find using a can of expanding foam, eliminating as much draft as possible. This went a long way toward making the RV airtight, which helps with heat loss but unfortunately comes with another problem—condensation.
We noticed moisture building on the windows, but when we realized our mattress was starting to collect mold on the underside, we knew something had to be done. The only way to fix this is airflow. Under the bed, we added a firm, porous sponge material that allows air to circulate below the mattress. We tried an electric dehumidifier, as well as calcium chloride moisture removers, but neither made a dent. We found the only way to control
moisture was to leave a small gap in one of our vents combined with fans to circulate the air.
One of the biggest problems was inside the cabinets. Due to lack of airflow and low temperatures, moisture had nowhere to escape, and this led to mold. Our fix to that problem was an aesthetic upgrade that served numerous purposes. We cut out the centers of all our cabinet doors and replaced them with burlap. The burlap is secured with contact cement. The small holes in the burlap allow air to constantly circulate through our cabinets without the doors needing to be open. In addition, removing the wood centers eliminated about 150 pounds of weight in the RV!
We read that the best option for summer and winter heat transfer in RV windows is to upgrade to a double pane. Unfortunately, just like our skirting, this was way out of the budget. Double-pane windows work by adding a small air gap between each pane, which is a great insulator. To get that same effect on a budget, we covered all of our windows with Reflectix, which is a silver roll of bubble wrap. The air bubbles work in a similar way to doublepane windows. The silver material is meant to be reflective and helps keep the hot air inside the RV. We added this material to every window in the RV, including the windshield, and secured it with adhesive velcro so we can easily
take them on and off. They also block out 100% of the light at night, making sleeping in the RV incredibly comfortable.
Since we planned on being plugged in all winter and do not have a very large propane tank, electric heaters are the best option for heat. We have a 1,500-watt wall heater on the wall by our bed that keeps us warm at night. We recently added a small 750-watt heater under our dinette to keep the floor warm while we’re working during the day.
Even with all our upgrades at the begin ning of winter, it was a constant battle to keep our internal water lines from freezing. Unless we had a string of three fans creating circulation in the tight places the water lines run, they would freeze at anything less than 20 degrees, so we were waking up with no water due to frozen lines. Finally, we found the magic solution we were looking for. Adding one more 750-watt heater under the RV kept our water lines anywhere from 50 to 60 degrees, even on our coldest nights at 20 below zero. We keep track of the temperatures in crucial parts of the RV using a wireless thermometer with three different reading points. It also gives the relative humidity in each location, which helps us monitor how much moisture is in the air.
Follow Cameo and Ryan Gower on Instagram @canwebarkhere
WHEN MY HUSBAND, Shane, was in the Air Force, and we were stationed in North Dakota, we bought a travel trailer to take our boys camping for the summer. This was our very first camper, and we were young and didn’t have much money to travel. I found out about military campgrounds, which allowed us to travel to some great places inexpensively. Once Shane retired and we decided to RV full time, we knew we had to stay in military campgrounds as much as possible—not only because they keep us on budget, but also because the beautiful campgrounds just feel like home to us.
Each base has different types of recreational services, such as tennis courts, swimming pools, and rock climbing walls. Some have campgrounds— usually called FamCamps. These campgrounds are great for camping families like us, as well as families moving to the base who need a temporary place to
stay. Some of these campgrounds are so popular you need to make reservations a year in advance.
FamCamps are our favorite places to camp while we travel in our RV.
I use Allstays’ “Military FamCamp Campgrounds” app, which shows all the FamCamps in your area or on the route you’re traveling. The app shows you the campground’s name, address, phone number, website, photos, and amenities, plus information about the campground, like who’s allowed to stay there and even which gate to use when you get there. It can be a bit tricky to get in and out of the gates at each installation— especially in an RV—and sometimes you will need to go to a different entrance. So even though the app tells you which gate to use for entry and exit, we still call ahead to make sure.
Some of these campgrounds are not even near a military base—a couple of the sites we’ve visited were located right on a beach or a lake. The campgrounds themselves usually only have a few amenities, such as a bathhouse and laundry, but the military installations have all the amenities you’ll need—like pools, golf courses, dog parks, gyms, grocery stores, and even liquor stores. Military bases are just like little towns, so you usually don’t even need to leave
the base unless you want to. They’re also usually located in a town that has sites or parks to visit while you are camping. Most of them also have cabins, trailers, or houses you can rent for yourself or family and friends who want to come along.
The most frequent question we get when we talk about FamCamps is, “Who can stay at the military campgrounds?” Our advice is to call the base campground office, because the rules vary. Eligibility covers a range of requirements, including an active-duty member, a retiree, other uniformed service members, veterans with 100% service-connected disability, Department of Defense civilians and federal employees, veterans awarded a Purple Heart, Medal of Honor, or Prisoner of War medal, and families, guests, and caregivers of the members. Just be sure to call the specific installation you want to visit first to verify your eligibility, because base commanders can make their own rules about who they will allow, even if the regulation states you are eligible to camp there.
From a remote beach to large cities, and even some near national parks and monuments, we have been to nearly 20 military FamCamps. They are located all over the United States, and we continue
to be amazed at their beautiful campsites and amenities. Call for yourself to see if you are eligible to stay, and make your reservations as soon as you can— you will not be disappointed. They are just like any other campground, except they are located on a military base! You might even hear Reveille and Retreat played a few times a day while you’re camping.
Patty shares her travels on Instagram at @gillsonwheels
Just like every great road trip, sometimes life takes you in a new direction. At Heartland, we’ve launched a new journey to make our RVs better than ever. We’ve doubled down on seeking out the highest quality materials, creating fresh and inviting interiors and giving every unit the kinds of finishing touches you’d find in a new home.
Every unit goes through a top-to-tails inspection with a quality assurance expert—in fact, we have an 89,000-square-foot facility dedicated to walking each RV through a series of checklists to ensure it works exactly as it should. And with updated floor plans incorporating features our customers love best—spacious bathrooms, designer kitchens, furniture meant for cuddling up together—we’re confident every trip in a Heartland will be a happy one.
After all, that’s what RVing is all about: hitting the road with people you love, having adventures, making memories. So when you buy a Heartland, just focus on taking the journey of a lifetime. We’ll take care of the rest.
Experience the all-new Heartland online and check out 360-degree model tours, detailed floor plans, all-new features, galleries of updated decor and more.
Just visit HeartlandRVs.com.
FINDING A WAY to fund travel is essential, which is why this is the number one most-asked question. The answer, however, is not so simple—from creative businesses to seasonal gigs to unique side hustles, our readers reveal how they make money on the road.
@livewild.air
“Consultant for a remote tech company”
@naturegirlangie
“I’m a curriculum developer/writer!”
Photo by @rollinboles@airstream_nuts_and_bolts “Consulting”
@the.wandering.wings
“I do remote accounting work, and Brandon is a recruiter.”
@adventuringrobinsons
“Travel/remote nursing and online ski/gear sales”
Here are other interesting jobs from our readers: Virtual bathroom designer
Major gifts officer for a national nonprofit Power lineman
Freelancing Nonprofit consultant
Share your job by emailing us at collab@rootlessliving.com
IRECENTLY COMPLETED MY first gig as a state park host—a positive experience that I would repeat in a heartbeat! Experiences can vary widely among different states, parks, and assignments, so read on for some things you’ll want to consider if you’re thinking about signing up.
My park host experience was at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site in Stonewall, Texas. It’s a day-use park, and I served on the maintenance team for 24 hours per week. In exchange, we were provided with a full-hookup, 50-amp campsite.
After three months, I really felt like part of the team! I worked hard to show I was committed to serving, not just doing the bare minimum to earn the campsite. The crew at LBJ State Park struggles with low staffing levels and abundant projects, and they appreciated my work, making a point of saying so regularly.
Be warned that this may not be universal! Our neighbors shared that when they served at another state park, the staff demanded more work than seemed appropriate, and weren’t very appreciative of their efforts.
The hours and the work can vary significantly, so be sure to find out what’s required before signing up, even if you’ve worked in other parks before. We learned that the national park right across the road required almost fulltime hours!
Texas state parks require 24 hours per site, and ask for a three-month commitment if it’s your first assignment. If you return, they’ll take two months, and some people are even booked for one month—most parks seem happy to have quality workers back for whatever time they can offer.
One specific thing to check in advance is whether the time required is per site or per person—you may be
able to split your required hours with your significant other! When I signed up, we assumed I would cover the total 24 hours each week because my wife, Jessi, didn’t think she could find time away from her job to volunteer. That changed once she realized she could spend her Saturdays working at the living history farm at the park, helping with the animals and demonstrating farm life from the early 1900s while serving as an interpreter for park guests. She loved it, and the park was willing to count her hours toward our commitment. I did still work my full 24 hours per week after I saw how backlogged and short-handed they were, but we were able to use some of Jessi’s hours to take a short getaway to explore the Hill Country region of Texas.
One thing I was warned about by others who had been park hosts in various places was “mission creep,” which is when additional (often unpleasant) tasks are added to your plate that you
hadn’t agreed to initially.
As part of the maintenance team, I cleaned the Visitors Center bathrooms, picked up trash, mowed grass, blew leaves, helped clear away fallen trees, and more. I consider all these things routine, and volunteers were not asked to do anything that full-time staff wasn’t also doing. The team I worked with was also outstanding about offering choices to their volunteers for assignments, which is how I managed to get away with not having to paint anything for three months!
That said, you don’t need to shy away from things you haven’t done before. I learned how to use lawn equipment I’d never used before, such as commercial-grade zero-turn mowers. That was a way for me to help the team while building my resume.
But if you find yourself noticing mission creep, you’ll want to nip it in
the bud quickly before you end up with a long list of responsibilities you never anticipated or signed up for.
When I told Jessi about my plan to be a camp host, she assumed we’d be in a campground. When I explained the situation, she asked how I managed to land a job as a camp host with no campers. I told her I must be lucky!
When looking to volunteer, consider whether the park is day-use only or if it provides overnight camping. From what I’ve been told, mission creep is a lot more common at campgrounds, partly because campers these days just seem to be messier than they used to be. That means there’s a lot more work to be done to keep things clean and orderly.
Being a host doesn’t always mean you get a prime spot, either. We visited
a state park in Texas where the two camp host sites were adjacent to the dump station! Because we didn’t have campgrounds at LBJ, we ended up in one of four host campsites. Bathroom and shower facilities weren’t conveniently located, and there wasn’t much shade—not ideal with the summer Texas sun!
In addition to paying attention to your campsite itself, consider the park’s location. What else can you see and do in the area? Being stationary can be monotonous if there’s not much to do outside of the park you’re in. Think about your wants and needs—are there towns nearby with large stores where you can buy groceries, stock up on supplies, or find repair parts if necessary? Are there other natural features,
museums, or tourist attractions within a day’s drive so you can break away from your worksite and experience a change of pace?
And what about the weather? We had the Texas sun in mind when we signed up—I was offered April through June, or June through August, and we opted for springtime in Texas rather than the middle of summer. We’re so thankful we did!
Nearly everything I’ve mentioned above can be reviewed online before committing to an assignment. Search Facebook for park host groups to join. There is one for Texas State Park Hosts, for example. I joined it to learn about what people were experiencing at various Texas state parks, keeping track of positive and negative comments for the different locations in case we decide to volunteer in a different Texas park.
Don’t be afraid to ask the volunteer coordinator precisely what you’ll be expected to do as part of your assignment, and determine if there are different assignments within a park and whether you’ll be able to move around. For example, at LBJ, you can work on the maintenance team, at the Visitors Center, or at the farm, and I know at least one host who switched from maintenance to
the Visitors Center while we were there.
As with any job, you are making a commitment in exchange for compensation. While many hosting gigs don’t provide a salary, they almost all come with a campsite. It’s up to you to determine if that campsite is worth the cost of your time and effort as a host. But once you commit, do your best to fulfill that commitment—work hard, take your assignments seriously, and remember that parks are generally understaffed and genuinely need your help.
If this sounds like something you’re willing to take on, I encourage you to try it at least once! I came away from my experience with a new appreciation for state park employees, and working on the maintenance team gave me a built-in exercise regimen that got me in the best physical shape I’ve been in for years. We enjoyed the experience so much that we are actually already booked to host at LBJ again! While park hosting may not be for everyone, it was a good fit for me, and it might be for you, too. Find out more about Ari and Jessi’s work and travel on www.trekers.org
THE DREAM OF traveling the world in an RV might seem out of your budget, but with proper planning and prioritization, you can RV for as little as $1,000 a month. The keys to RVing cheaply are owning your RV outright, budgeting, boondocking, saving on common RV expenses, and keeping entertainment costs down. Personal expenses, like health insurance and cell phones, are not included in this calculation.
If your goal is to stick to $1,000 a month, it’s pretty essential to own your RV outright—it’s just not an easy number to hit if you have an RV payment. But don’t be discouraged if you are still making payments! You might not be able to meet this specific budget quite yet, but there are many ways you can keep costs down on your RV adventure.
Whether you have a payment or not, traveling on the cheap starts with making your RV ready to camp without hookups—this is known as boondocking, dry camping, or dispersed camping. It’s important to have a solar setup and a dual power refrigerator that can run on propane. Solar-powered systems do require an initial investment, but not having to find an RV park everywhere you go will completely change the way you travel and save you a ton of money in the long run!
Many people don’t like the idea of dealing with a budget, but it’s necessary if you’re trying to RV on $1,000 a month. Your budget can be as simple as tracking expenses on a piece of paper, or as complex as QuickBooks—the key is knowing where you are spending your money. Everyone’s budget will be different, and budgets will vary from month to month! Here is a sample budget for two people RVing on $1,000 per month.
RV BUDGET: $1,000
CAMPING: free
PROPANE, WATER, LAUNDRY, EMPTYING TANKS: $65
FOOD: $325
GAS: $460
RV INSURANCE: $65
ENTERTAINMENT/MISC: $85
Finding places to stay for free is of course the best way to keep your costs down, so let’s start there. Free camping is available on most Bureau of Land Management land, in most national forests, and sometimes even in city parks. You can also stop overnight at most Wal-Mart, Cracker Barrel, Cabela’s, Camping World, and Bass Pro Shops locations, as well as some casinos. You can use apps and websites like FreeCampsites.net, iOverlander, Campedium, RV Parky, FreeRoam, and Boondocking to find these free spots.
Workamping is another option! We have spent three wonderful summers working in our national parks that offered pay and free or reduced camping, enabling us to easily live on less than $1,000 a month and even put some money away.
There are also paid memberships that give you access to no-fee camping, including Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome. Thousand Trails has a higher membership fee but is a good option for stays at privately-owned campgrounds. National and state park campgrounds are also an option and are usually more affordable than RV parks.
When you RV without staying at campgrounds, you will need to seek dump stations to ensure your black and gray tanks are empty and your water full. You can often find free places to do this using apps and websites like iOverlander and Sanidumps, but sometimes you may have to pay $10 to $15 to take care of business.
Propane is also a varying expense for many RVers. Because propane prices vary from place to place, you can search the Internet for the latest prices and call area propane suppliers looking for the best deal. Rather than waiting until your tank is empty, refuel when you find a good deal.
This is where a lot of people will run into trouble. It’s tempting to try new restaurants everywhere you go, but preparing your own meals is your best bet to save money on food expenses. We shop at discount grocery stores, plan meals around what’s on sale, use apps and coupons, and eat leftovers. When you do want to
eat out, look for happy hours and menu specials, eat lunch instead of dinner, and consider sharing a meal!
Gas budgets can vary a lot. The main determining factors, of course, are how often and how far you travel. You can use apps like Upside, Gas Buddy and TruNow to save on gas. You should also fill up when you find a good price, not just when the tank is empty. Proper tire inflation and maintenance can also save on fuel costs. Keep in mind that this is an expense you can control from month to month—if you find you’ve overspent in another area, find a nice spot and stay put a little longer.
If you are full-timing in your RV, it’s important to have full-time RV coverage. To find the best deal, check with several providers to find the best price and coverage for you. Then see what discounts they offer. For example, some providers offer a discount if paid in full, or for setting up automatic payments.
Many RVers enjoy just being out in nature. But when you want more, look up free things to do in the area you are traveling, or ask at the local visitor center. Many museums have a free day or free time.
Another good investment is the America the Beautiful National Park Pass, which costs $80 annually and covers entry to more than 2,000 parks and monuments. If you are disabled or a senior, you can purchase a lifetime pass for $80.
Enjoying RV life on a budget of just $1,000 a month really is possible! Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work for your situation or if you go over your budget sometimes—$1,000 a month can also be a goal to work toward as you adventure.
Melissa and Wade share their RV tips and adventures on pennypinchingglobetrotter.com and on Instagram @pennypinchingglobetrotter
Nate and Christian, the husband-and-wife duo Project Trek, are full-time RVers who love to experience the outdoors with their two kids, Ella and Andersen.
After suffering from the financial collapse of a failed business, Nate and Christian decided to take matters into their own hands and began the process of pursuing financial freedom. After completing their debt-free journey, they realized there was still something missing. They had a deep rooted desired to travel and spend more time with their children. Inspiration for full-time travel came from a week-long trip in a borrowed RV. Shortly after, the family dove head first into full-time RVing in April of 2017, when they hit the road in their Open Range Fifth Wheel by Highland Ridge RV. They have no plans of going back to the suburban life! Follow along with them as they navigate road schooling, healthy living and forming a community for other full-timing families.
You may have noticed rectangular and round dishes popping up on the roofs of RVs everywhere. This is Starlink—their high speed Internet is a great option for RVers because it enables you to access service in remote areas where regular hot spots and cellular signals just don’t work. With more families working from the road than ever before, having a reliable Internet solution is very important. This service is best for those who like to camp in remote locations, but it can also be good for campgrounds without great Wi-Fi. You’ll be able to work from your RV without having to drive to coffee shops and clubhouses.
Over the past year and a half, Starlink has expanded its service both in the United States and globally, with new and better service options. Until early 2022, RVers had to change service address locations as they moved. With the addition of portability, the service is becoming easier to use and more mobile for those RVers who move frequently and travel full time. You can even take your dish across borders into Canada and Mexico for up to two months at a time.
Don’t let the options overwhelm you when it’s time to choose what’s best for your family. The two options for RVing at this time are “Residential plus Portability” and “Starlink for RVs.” Both cost exactly the same—hardware is $599 and service is $135 per month.
Starlink for RVs: This is a great option for RVers. It gives you service everywhere Starlink can reach, but you will always be a lower tier of data priority. With Starlink speeds, though, you may never even notice when they throttle you. You don’t have to update your service address with this choice.
Residential plus Portability: This is our preference. We have used
this service since we got our Starlink in June of 2021. To use the Residential service in an RV, we simply update our service address to wherever we camp. We turned on the Portability option, as some places we camp may be at capacity or not providing service in the area at the time. Turning on Portability acts just like “Starlink for RVs,” giving us potentially throttled service. We chose this option so that we do have the choice of updating our service location to our campsite to get the fastest speeds, while with “Starlink for RVs,” you’re stuck with a potentially degraded service.
There are a few other options for Starlink, including a Business plan and a Maritime plan, but these options are not applicable to the RV community.
Initial setup is easy and straightforward. If you need to change your service address, that can be done through the website. Starlink has yet to come out with a truly mobile version
that can stay attached to your RV while on the road, so you’ll need to bring the dish—affectionately referred to as “dishy”—in and out each time you move. You will likely want the flexibility of moving your dish when needed anyway due to obstructions at different campsites. Most of the time, placing it on top of a slide or on the roof will give you great connectivity.
You will need to figure out how to run the ethernet cable through the walls of the camper, as the dish is waterproof, but the router and power supply are not. Some people use a bay, or a window, but a new, dedicated waterproof ethernet connection is optimal. We sacrificed a cable TV coax cable connection to install the ethernet connector.
You will have to park your RV without obstruction. This means being aware of tree cover and moving your dish around to get the best view of the sky. If you rely on video conferencing for
your profession, you may sometimes drop off the video due to the Starlink jumping to a new satellite during your call. Also, Starlink, for the most part, is not supposed to be used while en route. There have been successful attempts by savvy engineers who were able to figure out how to secure the dish while traveling, but we’ve found that simply stowing it and setting it up at your next location is a safer bet. If you must work on the road as a passenger, you will have to use your cellular plan until Starlink comes out with mobile equipment.
If you have zero issues with your current Internet solution, then Starlink probably isn’t necessary for you! But for those of us who have struggled for years with having to use various, inconsistent Internet solutions on the road, you will love the speeds and the ability to work from anywhere without the headaches of other providers.
Mel and Luke share their adventures and RV tips on their website lahrswithlatitude.com and on Instagram @lahrs.with.latitude
By Amanda Boles
OR THE PAST 14 years, my husband, David, has worked on an ocean-going tug and barge. He works a schedule of three weeks on, three weeks off, so he lives and works on a boat for half of the year. His company pays for his flights to and from the boat, so as long as our RV is near an airport, we can be anywhere in the country when it’s time to go back to work.
Seven years ago, we bought five acres in Nashville, built our dream home, and thought we’d live there forever … until we got a travel trailer. We always strive to maximize David’s time off work, so when he was home, we’d constantly be out traveling and exploring, and never home in our big house. Eventually, we figured, why not take full advantage of his very unique work situation? So in 2018 we sold everything and hit the road, and we honestly haven’t looked back. It’s been the best decision of our lives and has allowed us to blossom through adventures and traveling the country.
David lives on a 543-foot boat for half of his life, and in a 40-foot RV the other half. Including David, there are nine crew members on the boat—the captain, two mates, three engineers, two tankermen, and a deckhand. They take turns cooking nightly, so David cooks one night a week. They get a grocery allowance of $3,800 for three weeks, so they eat very well—lobster, steaks, and prime rib aren’t an unusual meal. This has allowed David to really practice his cooking skills and it’s something he has come to love and does very well. His captain often jokes that he should quit tugboat life and open a food truck to tow behind
the RV.
The boat David mainly works on is an asphalt-carrying barge. Since asphalt is stored at a high temperature, the boat is always extra hot, and super steamy when it rains. Sometimes you can find David laying on the deck to keep warm when it’s 25 below zero outside. He has to wear special heat-resistant boots so the soles of his shoes don’t melt and his feet don’t get too hot.
Ultimately, whatever contract they are under dictates where the boat travels. Contracts are typically with Shell, Marathon, etc., as asphalt is a petroleum product. In the last year alone, David has worked on boats that have gone to Colombia, South America; New Brunswick, Canada; all along the East Coast; the Gulf Coast; and the West Coast. Sometimes there’s frozen sea spray covering the boat in icicles, and other times he’s dripping in sweat as he works under the blazing sun. He also, unfortunately, ends up in 17-foot seas at times.
His tugboat pushes the barge, which carries 2.94 million gallons of asphalt in a single load. David is the tankerman on the boat, and he is in charge of loading and discharging the asphalt to and from the boat and onto the dock. When out at sea, the crew catches up on maintenance, cleaning, rust chipping, and painting.
But for the big maintenance projects, the tug and barge go into the shipyard twice every five years to have upwards of $3 to $10 million worth of work done. At this time they undergo upgrades and changes based on new Coast
Guard regulations. These shipyard visits typically last one to three months, depending on the scope of work.
David obviously doesn’t get to choose when he works, but we do at least know his schedule a year-plus in advance, because it never changes. Three weeks on, three weeks off, rinse and repeat, so we can plan our RV park bookings way ahead of time. But that also means we don’t get to choose when he’s home, so he often misses birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. One small consolation is that he gets double pay day for all major holidays he’s on board for. So when he’s not home for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Years, he gets paid twice the normal amount for that day.
His company has great benefits— health insurance, 401k, and a pension. David is also a part of the Seafarers
Union.
Overall, we both love David’s career. It sucks when he’s gone, but he loves his job, being at sea, and not having to commute every day or sit at a desk all day long. And we both love having him home for three weeks straight without having to worry at all about work. Now that we’ve been RVing for the past four years, we’ve grown to truly appreciate his career and the freedom it has given us.
It’s definitely not your typical 9 to 5, but we couldn’t imagine our lives any other way.
Amanda and David have been married almost 10 years and both love hiking, offroading, kayaking, boating, hot springs, and any sort of adventure—land or sea. Follow their travels on Instagram @therollinboles
IN 2015, MY new boyfriend, Ryan, and I were working in the corporate world. Ryan read an article about a couple who had quit their jobs, bought a boat, and traveled the world by sea, and all of a sudden, he wanted us to do the same thing. The idea felt nearly impossible, as neither of our jobs seemed like they translated well to remote work, we had no idea how to sail a boat, and we weren’t in the financial position to buy a boat in the first place!
At the time, Ryan and I both worked in sales. I was a pre-sales consultant for an HR-tech company, and Ryan was the commercial director for a small aviation startup. We weren’t working remotely, and most companies weren’t even open to considering it.
But in 2018, after a few years of saving and learning how to sail, we left the dock of Stockholm on what was meant to be a six-month adventure. Four years later, our lives look drastically different than they did back then. Thankfully, we’re still living on our boat and we’ve never looked back.
So what did we do about our jobs, and how do we make it work financially? This has changed a lot over the years, so it’s easier to give you a timeline of our income sources, starting in 2016. Buckle up, because it’s been a bumpy ride!
Two years before we left the dock, Ryan quit his commercial director position to set up an aviation consultancy, which he planned to do remotely. He also started working more with Clean Republic, a company he helped fund ten years earlier, that initially manufactured and sold electric bike conversion kits. He and his partners had a desire to branch out into lithium batteries, and Ryan helped raise some capital for that. That year, Dakota Lithium (which boat people may have heard of) was born. Fun fact—I designed the logo at our kitchen table in five minutes right before his first investor meeting.
At this time, Clean Republic wasn’t in a position to pay Ryan for the work he was doing. Luckily, this would change going forward.
We hadn’t left the dock, but it was my turn to quit my job and try setting up a consultancy! Initially, I offered web design and social media services in the Stockholm area. We were one year away from departure, and while Ryan had managed to secure a strong portfolio of remote clients for himself, I realized that mine would most likely not follow me on the remote bandwagon.
decided to make it my full-time job. What was originally a six-month adventure turned into, “we’ll sail for as long as we can afford it, and as long as we enjoy it.”
2019
Dakota Lithium was in good shape, and for the first time, Ryan was getting paid on a regular basis to work with Clean Republic’s investors. The company decided to further develop its activities while Ryan continued to work with his aviation consultancy clients.
I launched a Patreon page, which allowed our viewers to make financial contributions so I could continue making YouTube videos. Initially, all of the income from the channel was invested back into it in the form of gear replacement or upgrades. I continued to live off savings while taking on odd jobs here and there, such as translation or social media work.
2018
We began our adventure in June of 2018. Ryan’s aviation consultancy was healthy, and he had secured a teaching gig with an international aviation organization that required him to travel every few months to conduct training courses.
As I suspected, building a remote client portfolio in only a year didn’t work so well for me, so I decided to take the year to focus on a project close to my heart—filmmaking and photography. I gave myself one year to live off savings, tap into my creativity, and see where it took me. That’s how our YouTube channel, Ryan and Sophie Sailing, was born! Every week, I would write, record, edit, and produce a video update of our adventures, and a year later, I
As with everyone else in the world, our lives were thrown upside down by COVID, and we seriously thought it would be the end of our remote lifestyle. Ryan’s aviation consultancy gigs all disappeared overnight, and we did not expect Clean Republic to come out of it unscathed.
Making videos during the pandemic became too painful for me. We had a horrible experience during our confinement, which triggered a depressive episode. I was not in a state to share our stories publicly and face the reaction from the world. Ultimately, we had to leave the boat for a few months in hopes that the pandemic would calm down, and I took a break from YouTube. I tried focusing on a new venture, but it sadly ended up failing.
Dakota Lithium turned out to be one of those companies whose performance increased during the pandemic, and
Ryan became chairman of the board.
The pandemic was still in full swing, but we were back on the boat and I was feeling much better. I decided to give YouTube another go, which paid off—I was enjoying it more than ever and we had lots of new subscribers and patrons! But despite our apparent success, my income was so dependent on our lifestyle that it was hard for me to be consistent with producing videos, and I struggled to make ends meet in the months I couldn’t produce four videos.
Ryan, on the other hand, had completely stopped his aviation consultancy and was focused solely on developing Dakota Lithium, which was now a full-time job.
A friend of ours overheard me talking about how I was having a hard time making a consistent income, set up a call, and offered me a consulting gig teaching employees of big companies how to create training content. Thanks to this job, I can work remotely a few hours per week while continuing to work on our YouTube channel.
At the same time, Ryan and I decided to develop an online course about how to get started in sailing life, which we sell through a platform called Bright Trip. The course went live in the fall of 2022, and we hope that the sales can supplement our income.
The bottom line is that we’ve never
had it 100% figured out. Some months have looked better than others in terms of income, but we also have a lot of variability in terms of expenses, which could be the subject of another story altogether!
A big myth about sailing the world is that the way you support yourself needs to be set by the time you leave the dock, but that’s not how we did it! We had some savings from our corporate days, and we took a chance. This led us to adopt entirely new careers, which we have never looked back on.
As I mentioned, we adopted the motto that we will be sailing the world for as long as we can afford it, and as long as we enjoy it. While the road to the “affording it” part has never been a straight line, we love our lives, we love our jobs, and if we were to do it again, we wouldn’t change a thing!
Find Sophie and Ryan’s YouTube channel at Ryan and SophieSailing
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FROM A BASE in Fortuna, California, we spent three months exploring the redwoods and the Lost Coast, one of the state’s most remote and beautiful regions. Fortuna is an amazing location for anyone who wants to spend quality time exploring coastal Northern California.
Fortuna is a very nice small town featuring a few restaurants and an amazing park. In both directions, there are several miles of walking trails so we could meander and explore along the river and by pastures. There’s also an animal sanctuary where you can catch a glimpse of a camel and many other animals.
Most importantly, the location is perfect for visiting the redwood trees. At the north entrance of Avenue of the
Giants, there is a gorgeous scenic drive under some of the largest redwoods. There are multiple areas to pull off and enjoy small hikes along the entire avenue, too. Driving along the Avenue of the Giants will also take you to Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which has miles of hiking trails. This park features some of the oldest redwoods on earth, and there is a unique majesty in walking among trees that have towered over us for millennia. It feels otherworldly—so much so that this location was even used for some scenes in “Return of the Jedi.”
Going north on Highway 101, you’ll arrive at Redwood National Park, which has more hiking trails and groves. I highly recommended a short off-road drive that calls for traversing a small creek to Fern Canyon. Here, you can experience a gorgeous hike up a creek surrounded by walls of ferns with a prehistoric feel, which makes sense, as this spot was used for scenes in “Jurassic Park.” You will need to get a permit for this hike, as it has gotten extremely popular in recent years.
Eureka is a larger city near Fortuna and definitely worth a visit. We had wonderful experiences here, including a hike around Sequoia Park Zoo, which now has a Redwood Sky Walk that allows visitors to walk among the trees. Depending on the time and how long you’re passing through, there are various restaurant options.
A few minutes north of Eureka is a small college town called
Arcata. It’s a very well-kept area with several fun places to go. Our favorite stop here was Cafe Mokka, a Finnish bath house where you can soak in a lovely wooden outdoor tub in private bliss. It is highly recommended to call a day in advance.
Ferndale is another small town nearby, accessed by the narrow Ferndale Bridge, which transports you back in time to an adorable Victorian town. There’s a lovely downtown area, plus incredible hiking trails at nearby Russ Park. Ferndale’s main street is filled with Victorian-style storefronts.
This town is considered the “Gateway to California’s Lost Coast.” Driving along the Lost Coast Scenic Drive on Mattole Road will take you up gorgeous mountaintops and down to the ocean. This area of California is considered one of the most remote in the state due to the lack of access.
If you continue on the Lost Coast Scenic Drive, you’ll drive parallel to King Range National Conservation Area and down to the small quaint town of Shelter Cove, which has unique beaches with small dark pebbles and crashing waves. The total time for this drive is about three hours one way, so be prepared for an all-day excursion.
The entire area seems like it’s straight from a fairytale. From small town welcomes to great outdoor adventures, you will get lost among the redwoods and all the area has to offer. Cheers to exploring California’s most beautiful and remote places!
To learn more about Olivia’s travels, visit @ourescapadelife
This park features some of the oldest redwoods on earth, and there is a unique majesty in walking among trees that have towered over us for millenniaAvenue of Giants Humboldt Redwoods State Park
DID YOU KNOW there are more than 850 listed waterfalls in Tennessee?
Some are small and on private land, but there are also plenty that are accessible to the public, including more than 80 at Tennessee state parks. We put together a list of must-see waterfalls, many of which include epic hikes. During our adventure, we even found one that seemed to only be known by locals. Each waterfall we visited was unique, and we learned lots of interesting facts along the way.
Great Falls, located in Rock Island State Park, is a 30-foot cascading waterfall located below a 19th-century cotton textile mill. It is controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and was inaccessible at the time we visited, so we would definitely recommend checking the TVA schedule in advance. But even if the waterfall access is closed, there’s a great lookout point.
Also nearby is Twin Falls. This waterfall is located outside of the park and can be accessed via a walking trail. If you take the trail a little farther, it will lead you to a smaller waterfall with a hidden cave behind it. We were able to walk into the cave and even play in the smaller waterfall. Rock Island State Park is definitely worth a visit, and their nice, quaint campground has RV sites.
Ozone Falls is a waterfall we stumbled upon during a stay at the local KOA in Cumberland County. Located in the 43 acres of the Ozone Falls State Natural Area, this waterfall is 110 feet tall and flows over sandstone cap rock into Fall Creek. It also appeared in Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” We did have to research this waterfall to find out exactly where it is located and how to access it. There’s a small parking area next to a bridge where you can take two paths—the path next to the bridge takes you to the base of the waterfall and the other path takes you to the brink of the waterfall. There is plenty of room to
swim, along with rocks for children to climb on. If the crowds are too much for you, you can follow the creek down a bit and find little pools, and even some cool rock furniture.
Cummins Falls, located on the Blackburn Fork River, is one of the eight largest waterfalls in Tennessee, falling 75 feet into a large gorge. This waterfall is accessed through Cummins Falls State Park, and there is a fee to reserve gorge access passes. After registering for the hike, you will need to check in at the state park office and watch a short video for safety. They do suggest hiking shoes, and all children 12 and under are recommended to wear life vests. This 1.5-mile hike consists of dirt paths,
rocky terrain, and even two crossings over the river before getting to the gorge. It was quite a challenge trying to get five children to the top of the waterfall, but definitely worth it. This waterfall allows swimming at your own risk, though there are some rangers on standby. This was probably one of our favorite hikes as a family because of the change of terrain and large swimming hole.
Burgess Falls, near Cookeville, consists of four falls that create a nearly 250-foot drop in the Falling Water River. This hike is accessed through Burgess Falls State Park. It is free to enter, and the park even has a butterfly garden you can visit. The waterfall does not allow
swimming due to the rough waters, but you can kayak to the base of the largest cascade. The 1.6-mile hike is pretty moderate and leads to several overlooks with views of each cascade. As you approach, they get larger and grander in scale until you access the last one, which is surrounded by 100- to 200-foot limestone walls. There is a very strenuous, steep hike down to the base of the last cascade, which we chose not to try with the kids. I would definitely recommend the overlook hike for families with smaller children, as it is pretty moderate and easily accessible, with great views of each waterfall.
Fall Creek Falls is the largest and most breathtaking of the three waterfalls in Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer. The 1-mile trail to the base of this 256-foot waterfall is steep and strenuous, but we saw people of all ages making the trek. There are steep steps, rocky terrain, and some drop-offs. You can swim in the gorge beneath the waterfall and even access the area behind the waterfall for amazing views. This hike was our favorite due to the sense of accomplishment it gave us.
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains. This 2.3-mile round trip trail was created in the 1930s to provide access to Cove Mountain in the event of a fire. In the 1960s, it became a popular hike, which led to erosion of the trail, which was eventually paved. The 314-foot elevation gain takes you to a bridge in the middle of Laurel Falls for great views.
Burgess Falls
Twin Falls
Fall Creek Falls
You can also access the bottom of the falls and swim at your own risk. This is a very popular hike and parking can be an issue, so be sure to arrive early to grab a parking spot.
Abram Falls is located in Cades Cove, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can access this free hike by taking Cades Cove Loop Road—there’s a parking area that includes a bathroom. This popular 5-mile round trip hike was the longest one we did as a family of seven, and we needed quite a few breaks along the way, but a 20-foot waterfall with creek-like features was waiting for us at the end. Swimming is discouraged here since the current from the waterfall is strong and has resulted in injuries. Be sure to take your time with this hike and take plenty of photos of the ever-changing scenery along the way. You’ll want to spend a good bit of time at the base of the waterfall before ascending back to the top.
There are so many waterfalls around our country, but don’t forget to check out the ones in Tennessee!
See more of Gretchen’s family travels on her blog themindfulnomadic.com or on Instagram @ themindfulnomadic
Laurel Falls
Abram Falls
IT’S NO SECRET that national parks are becoming more and more crowded. Like most people, we tend to visit the parks during the peak season, when the snow has melted, trails are fully accessible, and the weather is the best. And while visiting during peak season has serious perks, it does come with one big downside—lots and lots of people. For us, really heavy crowds can sometimes take away from the experience.
Last spring, we decided to try something a bit different and visited Lassen Volcanic National Park in the
offseason. And we have to say, it was pretty magical! Although we couldn’t access everything we would have been able to in the summertime, we were able to enjoy smaller crowds, see the park with snow, and experience the park in a way many don’t get the chance to. It was a ton of fun and made us want to visit more parks in the offseason!
Offseason visits do require a bit more planning, though, so in this guide we’re sharing everything you need to know to visit during the winter or spring!
About Lassen Volcanic National Park Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in Northern California, about an hour east of Redding and less than three hours north of Sacramento. It definitely isn’t the most popular of California’s nine national parks, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s any less epic
than the others. The scenery here is out of this world!
The park is known for hydrothermal activity, lakes, gorgeous peaks, and all four types of volcanoes found in the world. In fact, one of the park’s most popular features, Lassen Peak, is actually the southernmost volcano in the Cascade Range, last erupting in the early 1900s.
The park almost felt like a miniature Yellowstone National Park to us, with lots of steam vents, mud pots, and other unique features to see!
Although Lassen Volcanic National Park is at its prime in the summer, when the snow has thawed on the trails and roads, the park is pretty special in the winter, too, with snow-covered peaks and extra-steamy hydrothermal features.
The winter season at Lassen Volcanic typically runs from November through May, with the exact dates varying year to year, depending on the snow levels. The majority of the park is closed during this time, but there are two areas that remain open—the Southwest Corner by the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Manzanita Lake.
These two areas are normally connected by the main park road and easy to go between, but the road is closed in the winter, so visiting both requires driving around the park, which takes about an hour and a half. You could visit both areas in a day, which is what we did, spread them out over two days, or just visit one area. We suggest visiting both if you can, as they each offer a different type of scenery to admire.
As for weather, you can expect temperatures to range from the teens to the mid-50s, with many sunny days to enjoy. During our visit in April, we had sunny skies and temperatures in the upper 60s, which made the weather feel pretty warm, despite there still being some snow on the ground!
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The park is located in Northern California It has all four types of volcanoes The park is home to the southernmost volcano in the Cascade range
The campgrounds inside the park are closed in the winter, but the park does offer a camping opportunity for those in RVs or tents. If you’re in a self-contained RV, you can pay $10 to sleep in the Kohm Yah-mah-nee
Visitor Center parking lot or tent camp in a designated snow area. The visitor center offers 24/7 access to water and a bathroom as well.
Camping overnight in parking lots at national parks is typically prohibited, so doing so at Lassen Volcanic was a nice perk to visiting in the winter season. It made exploring the southwest area of the park very easy!
If you’d rather stay in more traditional lodging or want more camping options, Redding is anywhere from 50 minutes to an hour and a half from the park, depending on what area you’re visiting. In Redding you can find hotels, Airbnbs, as well as some other camping options. We stayed at the Oak Bottom campground at Whiskeytown Lake near Redding, which had some nice walk-in tent sites and an RV parking area.
Entrance fee
It only costs $10 to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park between December 1 and April 15, which is cheaper than during the rest of the year.
Dogs are not allowed on park trails or snow covered trails/roads in Lassen Volcanic National Park. They are allowed in parking areas and are allowed to be walked along the paved roads.
The Visitor Center is only open Wednesday through Sunday during the winter and spring months, so be sure to visit on one of those days if you’d like to speak with a ranger or visit the park store!
There is definitely a lot more to do during the summer, but the winter and spring still give you the chance to see everything the park is known for, including mountains, hydrothermal features, and lakes, with a peacefulness that is hard to find during the busier months.
Manzanita Lake Loop Sulphur Works• Enjoy the snow!
• The biggest perk of visiting the park in the winter or spring is seeing the park covered in snow, so there is no better activity than playing in it!
• Depending on snow levels, you can sled, snowshoe, or cross-country ski at Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. Both open areas of the park offer opportunities for all three, with the Southwest Corner having steeper slopes for sledding, the Manzanita Lake area having more opportunities for snowshoeing, and the closed park road being a popular route for cross-country skiing.
Sulphur Works, located in the Southwest Corner, is the most accessible hydrothermal area in the park and is the only one accessible in the winter. Many years ago there was a volcano called Mount Tehama located nearby. It was an 11-mile-wide, 11,500-foot-tall volcano, and its eruptive period ended about 360,000 years ago. It has been broken apart and carried away over time by erosion and has left a large basin, and Sulphur Works is in the general location of its central vent.
Here you can find steam vents, which look extra beautiful on a winter or spring morning against the cold air, as well as bubbling mud pots.
In the winter, this area can be accessed by a 2 mile (round trip) walk or snowshoe from the visitor center, if the road has yet to be plowed, or by a short walk from a parking lot, if the snow has been plowed to this point.
The star of the Manzanita Lake area of the park is its namesake, Manzanita Lake. This is a beautiful lake with an epic backdrop of Lassen Peak, which towers over the lake and reflects onto its surface.
Visiting the lake is very accessible, as it’s just a short walk from a parking area. There is a 2 mile (round trip) trail that takes you around the lake, which not only gives you views of Lassen Peak, but also Chaos Crags. This is a perfect beginner snowshoe route, as it’s very flat!
The Chaos Crags are a cluster of six dome volcanoes that last erupted about 1,000 years ago, and on a 4 mile (round trip) snowshoe or hike, you can get to the base of these craggy peaks, as well as to Chaos Jumble, a huge field of boulders that are the remains of a rock avalanche. There are also some nice views of the surrounding area, including the mountains!
We did this hike in April and had quite a few snowy areas to cross, but we did not need snowshoes. Earlier in the season this is a great snowshoe route that is more challenging than Manzanita Lake. Be sure to download the trail map beforehand, as the trail can be hard to follow in the snow!
Whether you decide to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter or spring or try out a different park, we highly recommend visiting a national park during the offseason or shoulder season. Not only will you get to experience it without the crowds, but it’ll give you a unique experience that not many get to have!
Read more about Kathryn’s adventures and National Park Guides on her website adventuresofaplusk.com and on Instagram @adventuresofaplusk
Here is what we’d suggest checking out if you visit in the offseason.
Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, and this holds true for RVers. This boondocking spot was one of the many amazing places we camped on our Alaska trip. Located in a river bed, this spot may be inaccessible during high water, but by early July, it was perfectly fine to drive anywhere you wanted to camp. There are usually many people camping here, as campgrounds in Alaska require reservations months in advance and tend to be expensive.
This boondocking area doesn’t have any cell service, but what it lacks in Internet connection, it more than compensates for with its views, nearby hiking, and bald eagles commonly seen along the riverbank. Just up the road, you can visit Kenai Fjords National Park, which offers hiking and some of the most iconic views of Alaska.
We took trips into the town of Seward for groceries, the famous Fourth of July fireworks show, and an epic hike of Mount Alice that gave us sweeping views of the fjord, Resurrection Bay, and the mountain ranges that surround Seward. You can visit the Seward Harbor, take a fjord tour, and try some of the infamous halibut that coastal towns are known for in Alaska.
Contributor Greg Williams @drifter.journey
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Have you ever stayed somewhere that was very last-minute, but totally impressed you? That was our experience at Silurian Dry Lake Bed in Baker, California. This location was beyond our expectations.
We needed to find a dry camping location for a night, as we were adjusting our route due to wildfires. After a quick search, we discovered this spot through Campendium, and it came with several reviews that appealed to us.
While it was absolutely in the middle of nowhere, it was exactly what we needed. It’s pitch black at night, so we could see every star shining in the sky, plus the most amazing sunset and sunrise over the surrounding mountains. The location was easily accessible for rigs of all sizes from the paved road, but give lots of warning, as you’re exiting a two-lane highway. We were able to park our rig on an angle to maximize our solar exposure, as we had as far as the eye could see to ourselves. Cell service here was good, but the wind can be strong at times, so keep that awning in and know there will be dirt. Our kids had a blast playing with the chunks of dry lake bed, and our dogs enjoyed the freedom to explore off leash.
While this was just a transition spot for us, there are some amenities, such as gas and fast food, up the road in Baker if you need them. It's a great location to stay a while or stay for a night. The location is also close to Death Valley, Las Vegas, and the Mojave Preserve, while still being far off the beaten track.
Contributor Kate Flemister @moresunsetsplease
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