Rootless Living Issue 23 | July / Aug 2023

For generations, campers have lived out their travel dreams with Keystone Cougar. Explore the award-winning 2023 floorplans featuring Amy Gray Signature Series interiors, iN-Command control systems, SMART TVs, on-demand hot water, SolarFlex Solar power, and now shipping with Dragonfly Energy Lithium-ion batteries.

STOP SWAY IN ITS TRACKS

• Two distinct points of sway control, working together to keep trailer aligned

• Integrated sway control reduces sway and levels the vehicle and trailer

• Adjustable brackets provide fixed support unlike spring bar chain models

• Four points of sway control work together to keep trailer aligned

• Integrated sway control actively resists sway and levels the vehicle and trailer

• Welded head with cast pieces and trunnion-style forged steel spring bars

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DO YOU FEEL FREE, OR DO YOU FEEL STUCK?

It's a question I've been grappling with lately as my feet are firmly planted for the time being on acreage in Oklahoma.

Am I still Rootless?

Looking around at things we've acquired to manage life and current construction projects on the property, I feel stuck. Babysitting these things feels like the best option for now, but do I wish we could hook up the fifth wheel to the truck, head to a lake spot, or park on the beach in Texas for a week or two? You bet.

Roots are subterranean; they take hold beneath the surface. When I say "roots," I don't mean property or a house; I mean this: the thoughts that have dug deep and taken hold in your mind.

It's thoughts that keep us stuck, not things.

In my current season, circumstances dictate that travel involves an airplane, rental car, and hotel. Each of those experiences has left a lot to be desired. It makes me realize the benefits of traveling with my RV and how much I miss mine each time I travel without it. An RV will always be my preferred mode of transportation.

The life I'm managing now is leading me back to free. It's

bringing me back to a place to be able to unload the RV and be wheels up in 30 minutes or less. And not in the prepper way of running from zombies, but in a way that takes the biggest stumbling block out of the equation, in that I will always have the RV packed and ready to go.

No packing. No prepping. No being stuck.

This is the life I want and am working towards.

Until the next issue … stay Rootless.

Demian Ross, Publisher @demianross demian@rootlessliving.com

I have to admit that issues of Rootless Living that contain epic travel guides are my favorite. While this magazine is all about highlighting a variety of lifestyles and people who are going against the norm, sharing new and exciting destinations is what excites me most. In this issue, we cover coastal Vancouver right alongside mountainous Colorado and the Alaska Highway through Canada. To top it off, we even cover international vanlife in volcanic Costa Rica! No matter where your journey takes you this summer, I hope you enjoy this issue of Rootless Living. If you ever want to share your story with us, please email me at collab@rootlessliving.com

Jess Stiles Managing Editor

ON THE COVER:

Venturing down Route 66, Kayla and Katie travel full time in their Airstream. For more on their adventures, follow them on Instagram @_awilderlife

ROOTLESS LIVING

MAGAZINE

Issue 23 • Jul/Aug 2023

Publisher Demian Ross

Chief Editor Nikki Kirk

Managing Editor Jess Stiles

Editorial Assistant L. Merredith

Art Director Melinda Galjour

Operations Manager Jamie May

Copy Editor Kristin Skaggs

Advertising sales@rootlessliving.com

LET’S

@rootlessliving

/rootlessliving

@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 © 2023 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.

CONTRIBUTORS Contributor Spotlight

Chelsea Pambuka

DJ and Rachel Penrod

Katie Lahti

Kayla Gutierrez

Lia Eyre

Evan Lanier

Gretchen Watson

Julie Roberts

Erin Davy

Jeff Julian

Mel and Jay Hanley

Kristin Calzon

Kelley Hayes

Connor and Madison Welch

Caleb and Crystal Barnaby

Lacey Esposita

Rachel Skytta-Davis

Marie Casey

Ann Brampton

Kristin Halls

Marco and Kim Brugnoli

Rachael Lyons

Want to be a part of the next issue? Reach out to us at collab@rootlessliving.com

OLIVIA DE SORIA

@theboatnotes

Epic Breakdown on Monarch Pass

Going back and forth between their RV and their 38-foot catamaran, Olivia and her family enjoy traveling all over the world. She enjoys sharing both the highs and lows of their incredible journey on her blog, theboatnotes.com

SHANNON MURRAY

@snorkelsandsnowpants

Making Money on the Road

Shannon and her partner, Bobby, are traveling the world together, one exciting destination at a time. Initially, they focused on international trips, but recently they’ve discovered all that RVing has to offer. Shannon posts tales of their journey on her website at snorkelsandsnowpants.com

NICOLL DAVIS

@livingtinywithawolf

Summer In Telluride, Colorado

Nicoll and her husband, Jake, travel full time with their two dogs and a wolfdog. Passionate about living small, she enjoys inspiring others to do the same. Nicoll shares travel guides for their favorite destinations and tips for traveling full time while living tiny on her blog, livingtinywithawolf.com

KATHRYN FRAZER

@adventuresofaplusk

Driving the Alaska Highway

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, adventuresofaplusk

The whole point of weight distribution is getting the correct amount of weight moved from the rear axles to the front axles of your vehicle. Current weight distribution hitches take an all-or-nothing approach: loaded or unloaded. Our composite LITEFLEX® bars make it possible to fine-tune your setup with just the pump of a handle.

Our tapered composite spring bars made with LITEFLEX ® technology by Hendrickson cover 600 - 1,600 lb tongue weight.

Preset head angle works for every setup

Single pivot point eliminates noise and wear points

Unload the bars by simply twisting the needle valve knob.

Load the bars by pumping the handle until desired weight is transferred to the front axle.

Pressure gauge to ensure a repeatable setup

Setup is all done on the driver’s side.

Composite bars are lighter-weight and 5x more flexible than steel, but with similar strength.

Immediate and continuous friction sway prevention

“It will be a work in progress to find the best way to make our animals as comfortable as possible— these trips are as much for them as for us!”

“Geeked out while taking this drive south through Navajo Nation”

@theroadnottaken_bus

“We didn’t want to look back at this window of opportunity and have regrets because we didn’t try.”

@llamallamaadventure

“We were in a magazine! What are your thoughts on our office setup?”

FEATURED NOMAD

meet

Evan Lanier!

AFULL-TIME FILMMAKER AND photographer who is passionate about travel for work and pleasure, Evan has not one adventure vehicle, but two! “My family and I have been to 45 states and three provinces in our 1980 Airstream International,” he said. “I also travel often in my 2016 converted Mercedes Sprinter.”

These two vehicles are key for Evan, a self-proclaimed nomadic adventure lover. He started climbing, hiking, and backpacking as a teenager, and has now traveled to five continents, more than 20 countries, and all 50 states. In fact, he visited 45 states in 2022 alone! “I’ve always loved exploring new places, experiencing new cultures, and seeing unique things,” he said. “I love dining where the locals eat, driving around new areas, and finding places that are off the beaten path.”

Some of Evan’s favorite travel moments were hiking to the base of Tre Cime in the Italian Alps in the middle of winter and standing on top of Murchison Falls in Uganda.

Having a place to call home is important to him too, though, and this is why he’s chosen to stay where he grew up.

“I was born and raised in Alabama. There are many cool places in the state that people don’t know about, with mountain views, waterfalls, caves, and more.

I’m super thankful to have been raised around it all.” Evan and his family currently live in the Talladega National Forest in Munford, Alabama.

For more on his travels, follow Evan on Instagram @evanlanier and YouTube @livemore, or visit his websites, livemorecollective.com and livemoreweddings.com

BE IN YOUR ELEMENT, OUT IN THE ELEMENTS.

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Homeschooling Transformed

By Gretchen Watson

WHEN WE STARTED contemplating RV life four years ago, we never really worried about our kids’ educations, because we were already a homeschooling family. I never could have predicted how much being on the road would change the way I educate my kids.

For our first child, I used one curriculum—the same one I used when I was homeschooled. As the younger kids began school, I realized not all of my children learned in the same way, so I had to venture out and try new options. One new curriculum led to many, and we even tried some that were complete failures and had to change our plan mid-year. That was okay, because we had to find the right fit and what worked best for our children.

One issue we faced when hitting the road was realizing that taking all the books might be a little challenging, since we had to take weight and storage into consideration. I rethought our setup once again and added in some online courses.

Before traveling full time, we used to follow a strict schedule. At one point, I even had a school room and followed the clock, just like public school! After four years of traveling, we have now become a more relaxed homeschool family. We don’t stress over tests and paperwork as much as before; instead,

we value more natural learning. We plan school four days a week. Sometimes this looks like learning from the places we visit, and other times it looks like workbooks and structured lessons. Sometimes it’s doing school while moving the RV, and other times it’s making up some work on the weekends.

One of my goals behind traveling full time with my family was to give my kids opportunities they wouldn’t have otherwise. I dreamed about how they would learn from handson experiences and see all the things they had read about. Little

did I know this would shape the way we would educate our children altogether. Slowly, my method of just books, like Abeka and The Good and the Beautiful curriculum, turned to online classes via Teaching Textbooks, and even some

unschooling by allowing our children to lead their education from their interests and passions.

Our travel route is determined by many different situations. Sometimes our path is determined by work, sometimes by fun, and sometimes by the kids’ education! When we’re headed to a certain destination, I look around for places of interest, and historical or scientific places that we can visit while there, including national parks, national monuments, and museums.

National monuments are places that have historic or scientific interest and are located on land owned by the federal government. As such, access to national monuments is included with the America the Beautiful pass. Most of these include the Junior Ranger Program as well, which is a free resource that helps educate children about the monument and its history. We recently visited one of our new favorite national monuments, Fort Pulaski. Located in Savannah, Georgia, the fort shows how Confederate soldiers would have lived while waiting out the Civil War, and details the damage the fort undertook from the Union. No matter how many times we’ve studied the Civil War, each visit to a place like this adds more value to what we’ve already learned from books.

National parks are another way to help our kids learn. They are set up to preserve the landscape, plants, and animals of the area. We have been to 12 national parks so far in our travels, and our favorite is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for the wildlife and incredible hikes. We also enjoyed visiting Petrified Forest National Park, including the Painted Desert and the petroglyphs from Puerco Pueblo. Since national parks are known for their hikes, we also take advantage of these visits to get out the kids’ pent-up energy. The America the Beautiful pass covers the cost of national park entrance as well.

Visiting science museums, art museums, zoos, and aquariums is another way we allow for hands-on learning while we travel. We find these places allow for plenty of learning, and they usually offer interesting presentations and demonstrations.

Sometimes our travels allow us to find interesting stops that are off the beaten path, such as Old Fort Jackson, located outside of Savannah, Georgia. This fort is

not a national monument, but it’s definitely worth a visit. There are daily cannon firings and interactive programs for all ages, with a guide dressed up as a soldier from the era. Our kids were able to hold a cannonball and got a mini history lesson on how the fort warned oncoming ships of impending danger.

Lastly, one of my favorite ways we incorporate learning on the road is through book studies. While doing a book study with The Good and the Beautiful curriculum, we read about Helen Keller. After finishing the series, we realized we would be staying near the town where she grew up in Tuscumbia, Alabama, and could tour her childhood home. There is something so special about reading about a place and then visiting it in real life. We were also able to tour Fort Boonesborough while traveling through Kentucky, after we did a study on Daniel Boone. This state park offered craft demonstrations including wool weaving, candle making, and blacksmithing, which showed the kids what life in the fort would have been like.

When we set out in 2019, it was to create a life that was full of memories, but also a love for learning. Traveling has allowed me to realize that learning happens all the time in our children’s lives—not just at a table with a pencil in hand, but also when playing or exploring the world. I am thankful that traveling has changed who I am as my children’s teacher. I am no longer the rigid schedule follower I used to be, but have embraced the learning that happens as we travel this great country.

Gretchen and her family share their travels on Instagram @themindfulnomadic

GOING NOMAD

How We Transitioned to Full-Time RVing

By Julie Roberts

MANY HAVE ASKED us, “Why?” Why would anyone give up a big two-story house with a basement, a huge backyard, and an amazing screened-in back porch? Well, the answer is pretty easy for us. We now have the freedom to go anywhere we want while being comfortable in our own surroundings within our home. Our tiny home on wheels is a Grand Design Momentum 351M. We are a family of four—me; my husband, Jason; our 17-year-old daughter, Addison; and our 4-yearold Yorkie rescue, Maddie. We were weekend warriors for years, traveling all over Georgia and a few places in Florida. During the warmer months, we would camp every other weekend, mainly at campgrounds within an hour of home. It had been our dream to become full-time RVers once we retired, but then COVID happened and changed things for so many people. Jason has worked at the same company for more than 27 years, and when the pandemic began, his company gave employees the ability to work from home. At first, he couldn’t stand looking at the same walls every day and missing the in-person connection he had with his coworkers and staff. About three weeks in, he began to see the positives. He saved more than two hours a day not having to drive to the office, and rediscovered his love for running at our local park during lunch. As time went on, it seemed like they would be working from home forever, and eventually, that’s exactly what happened!

I had already been working at home for a few years, and our daughter was attending school remotely. We started to wonder why we needed to be in that spot instead of traveling. The camper that was sitting next to our house looked like a really good option.

Jason loved watching YouTube videos of people who had given up all of their material belongings to hit the road. He started getting me and Addison to watch these videos, and we formed a crazy idea in our heads. Many people wait until they’re retired and their kids are adults to hit the road in their RVs, but we started to think, “Why wait?”

Since our daughter was in her first semester of high school, it had to be a family choice. Did she want to see the country and continue with her school digitally, or would she prefer for us to wait until she was out of the house? She chose to get on the road now. She was already involved in a competition cheerleading team, so she asked if we could wait until her season was complete. We needed some time to sell the house and downsize anyway, so that worked out perfectly.

After months of downsizing, we started to feel lighter. But as a very sentimental person, I was struggling with getting rid of certain things. I ended up being able to give things away to family members while still being at peace with my decision. Each item is now looked after by other members of the family.

We listed our house and were under contract right away. A few hiccups later, we were under another contract that closed. Meanwhile, we continued to downsize to the point that we were ready to move into the camper.

We knew selling the house at the time we did was the right choice, as the market was higher than it had ever been. However, that left us with a camper parked in a long-term campground in the meantime, and we realized that although we’d been weekend warriors for years, we hadn’t necessarily made sure we were completely set up to hit the road. For Jason’s work and Addison’s school, we still had to make sure we had a completely mobile Internet setup so we could go anywhere and not lose access.

We’ve been full-timers for two years now. Is everything perfect? Of course not. Are we thrilled we made this choice? Absolutely! We had to learn to roll with the punches. We ordered the perfect RV for our family, and Addison changed her mind and wanted to go back to school in person. We agreed as long as we could still take lots of trips.

We found a nice, friendly RV park to use as a home base, and we are close to everything we need for now. Addison will graduate soon, at which point we’ll leave the security of our home base and hit the road traveling full time. We hope to see you out there!

Julie and her husband are on Instagram and YouTube @destinationfulltime and at their website, destinationfulltime.com

SOLAR POWER

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TRUCK CHARGING

LITHIUM BATTERY BANK

BAKING TINY

Trying Out the Brava Oven

By Erin Davy

ILEARNED ABOUT THE Brava oven at my first TinyFest in early 2020. I heard it made a great frozen pizza, so I wrote it off as something I didn’t really need. Instead, I went with a big, fancy toaster oven, which I thought would feel the most “normal” and would allow me to do all the cooking—both basic and fancy—I imagined would be a huge part of my vanlife.

I am a huge fan of real food and farmers markets, having worked in catering, restaurants, and in-home as a personal chef. My husband and I have been living and traveling in our van since early 2020, and for such a small space, we devoted a lot of it to a kitchen fit for a chef. After a couple of years of travel, we decided we wanted to upgrade our home on wheels, so in the spring of 2022, we started building out a box van. Almost doubling our living space means we’ll have a more robust solar power system, and I can possibly add a few kitchen gadgets I’ve been missing.

Which brings me back to the Brava oven! I tried one out at a recent TinyFest, using it to make chicken wings for a crowded potluck. They turned out so well that I decided I need to get my hands on one ASAP. I plugged it in and started cooking all of my favorite things.

The oven itself is pretty different from anything most folks are familiar with. It uses infrared light that is calibrated to perform a very precise cook. The oven comes pre-programmed with hundreds of different cooks for specific recipes. If you can connect it to Wi-Fi, you can access even more, and of course, you can program your own! There is also a Facebook group where users swap recipes and tips, which is pretty fun.

I started simple, with eggs in the egg pan—four concave spots in a tray, specifically designed to fit one egg each. You type “egg” into the touchscreen and it offers choices of different types of eggs—fried, scrambled, frittata, etc. When I chose fried, it offered choices for level of doneness, provided the steps for preparation, then cooked the eggs exactly as promised.

Once, I followed the pre-programmed recipe for a tri-tip roast, and it came out beautifully—absolutely juicy and delicious! Also, there is a probe that allows you to monitor and set your desired internal temperature, which I love. Talk about precision cooking!

There are quite a few accessories you’d want in order to enjoy a full cooking experience, and they’re sold as a convenient bundle. I do have some pangs of regret on occasion that I can’t use my own baking sheets and cookware that I’m so familiar with, but the pans that come with the Brava are very user-friendly, so it’s not a real hardship. I love the Dutch oven for braising and casseroles.

You may be wondering about power consumption, as many of us are off-grid. To my surprise, it’s exactly the same as my old toaster oven—1,800 watts. It does require a dedicated breaker.

I mentioned earlier that I thought I’d do more “fancy” cooking in the van, but the truth is we’ve been busy having adventures and being social, and when we’re not doing that, we like to relax. The Brava oven can cook all the same things I’m accustomed to making in the toaster oven, but with a little less hands-on time and guesswork.

CONS:

- Pulls a lot of power

- Requires Wi-Fi for full interactive experience, but is usable without

- Using the precise cooks means following directions to get the desired results. This is not a negative for most folks, but for me it was a bit of a challenge because I’m more of an intuitive cook. However, when I follow the directions, I get great results.

So, is a Brava oven something you need for your rig?

PROS:

- Simple to use and enables “set and forget” cooking

- Easy to cook smaller portions, great for couples or singles

- Does everything that a regular oven can

- Modern technology

- 100-day 100% refund gives you ample time to test it out and make sure it's a good fit for you

Personally, I love how easy it is to make both simple and fancy foods. For the two of us, it’s been great, and it has honestly inspired me to make more of an effort to try some new meals and a few old classics. So if you enjoy kitchen gadgets, and would like a small oven to make your kitchen experience a little more space-age, then yes, this is something you need!

Erin travels with her husband, Joe, and their dog Finn, and can be found on Instagram

@thebaconsrebellion

HOW TO SET UP A

virtualmailbox

THOUGH THE WHOLE world seems to be online and paperless, there are still occasions when you need to receive physical mail. One of the challenges of going fully nomadic is losing a home address for that physical mail to be sent to! Thankfully, there are virtual mailbox and mail forwarding companies that can solve this problem.

If this address will be your only physical address, it will also determine your state of residence, so it’s important to first assess which state will be most advantageous for you. Most nomads choose South Dakota, Florida, or Texas due to the lack of state income tax and the relative ease with which you can establish residency. If you simply need a virtual mailbox to handle your mail, read on!

HERE IS A BASIC BREAKDOWN OF HOW VIRTUAL MAILBOX COMPANIES WORK:

Physical Address: Provides a physical address to use for residency and for all situations where an address to a physical building is required

Mail Notifications: Sends instant alerts when you receive mail, including an image of the envelope

Mail Handling: Recycles, shreds, opens & scans, and forwards mail based on your choice for each piece of mail you receive

Generally, competing mail forwarding companies offer very similar services, but it’s important to assess which features are offered in order to find the best fit for you. Here are some things to consider:

Virtual Setup: Some companies require you to visit them in person to set up their service. Others allow you to set everything up remotely, managing your account completely online.

Price: Companies offer different levels of pricing, often including monthly or annual plans. They typically have price tiers based on the amount of mail you expect to receive per month.

Storage: If you want to pick up your mail or packages yourself, be sure

to consider which services provide storage, and the length of time they will hold things for you. These plans typically cost a little more than ones that do not include storage.

Locations: A few companies have locations throughout the United States, allowing you to ship items to any of their locations for pickup.

Business Versus Personal Use: Some virtual mailbox companies are set up to help small businesses rather than individuals. For example, Business Anywhere doesn’t charge extra for scanned mail, which can be a huge bonus if you expect to receive a lot of mail.

Virtual mailbox services have many benefits. They process your junk mail and can consolidate packages for forwarding in order to save on shipping costs. In addition, they can receive packages from any shipping service, whereas PO boxes don’t accept FedEx or UPS shipments. Virtual services can also sign for packages that require a signature upon delivery. And the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a secure place to send important mail is invaluable!

If you’re interested in setting up a virtual mailbox, here are a few companies to check out:

• Anytime Mailbox

• Business Anywhere

• iPostal1

• PostScan Mail

• US Global Mail

• VirtualPostMail

ALWAYS BE READY FOR THE ROAD.

TIRE LINC ® TIRE PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE MONITORING SYSTEM

Always be ready for the road. Upgrade your RV with the tire pressure and temperature monitoring system (TPMS), that sends you tire notifications directly to your phone.

• Monitors and alerts drivers of high or low tire pressure and temperature

• Easy, do-it-yourself installation

• Works with OneControl ® app on iOS and Android devices

• Kit includes 4 sensors and can also monitor up to 20 tires simultaneously

Download the Lippert OneControl app via the Apple App Store or Google Play and take control of Tire Linc technology.

Apple and App Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

MISHAPSSETBACKS

JEFF AND MICHELLE JULIAN

@jeffjuliankc

Jeff Julian and his wife, Michelle, encountered a mishap outside of St. Louis on Interstate 70. Traffic suddenly came to a grinding halt, and Michelle had to react quickly. Jeff said, “Michelle was able to bring our 2012 Thor Windsport— towing a Mini Cooper on a dolly—to a complete stop without changing lanes or hitting the car in front of us. But seconds later, our whole rig lunged forward, and in our mirrors, we could see a semi truck coming up the right side of the RV.”

Luckily, they were safe, but their cat, Finely, was scared due to items from the back being thrown forward. Compared to what could have happened, their RV suffered minimal damage. “When we stepped out to investigate, we saw our Mini Cooper had taken the hit and had become detached from the RV, but the main portion of our RV’s body had been saved.”

AND

Whether you’re a newbie RV driver or a seasoned road warrior, travel mishaps and setbacks are sure to happen. Here are a few stories from fellow RVers.

Tales of RV Misadventures OUCH!

MEL AND JAY HANLEY @homearoam

During their first full summer with their home-on-wheels, Mel Hanley and her husband, Jay, were traveling in Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada.

“While leaving our first campsite,” Mel said, “we brushed the top of our 2016 Tracer trailer on a low-hanging branch.”

They stopped to assess the damage, but their trailer appeared to be unharmed, so they continued on their trip. “Little did we know, the branch created small punctures in the rubber roof that went unnoticed until several months later. During our rig’s fall tune-up, we were told moisture had gotten under the rubber and created a soft spot in our roof.”

The repair shop was able to patch the holes, but getting insurance to cover repair costs was a different story. Finally, after phone calls, emails, and months of waiting, they got the all clear … but by that time, the soft spot had turned moldy.

“The repairs involved removing everything on the roof, including our newly-installed solar panels, our vents, and our existing rubber roof. Then they cut out the area that had gone bad and replaced it before re-applying a new rubber roof and re-installing our accessories.” This big job came with a big bill—about $6,000—but insurance thankfully covered it.

“We are now very aware of how delicate the roof of a travel trailer can be, and we take extra precautions to avoid low-hanging obstacles. We also carry roof seal tape, and we have a recurring reminder to inspect the roof every few months. Maybe we’re being extra paranoid, but we would rather be safe than sorry … again.”

KRISTIN AND BRETT CALZON

@kristinkellie30

Weekend warriors Kristin Calzon and her boyfriend, Brett Ripp, also experienced an RV disaster on the road.

Traveling with their son in their 1972 Winnebago Brave, the family was near Apopka, Florida, when they suddenly heard a loud bang and metal hitting metal, then felt some shaking.

They pulled over to inspect what happened, but all appeared fine, so they got back in. “We found that we could still drive at a very low speed, so we decided to crawl the last half-mile to camp,” Kristin said.

Getting a tow home proved to be a challenge—after 16 hours of waiting, they realized their roadside-assistance insurance never sent a tow truck. Further, in order to get a tow, they now had to pay out of pocket.

The bad news didn’t stop there, as they also discovered the damage done to their RV. “It turned out that we lost a driveshaft joint,” Kristin said. “Luckily, it didn’t break, and it was a cheap fix, so we were quickly back on the road!”

Overall, her lesson learned is to read the fine print on auto insurance policies and remember that mobile mechanics are options, too.

EPIC BREAKDOWN ON

MONARCH PASS MONARCH PASS

By Olivia de Soria

WE WERE IN Salida, Colorado, headed to Gunnison on the Monarch Pass, the sun low in the quiet dawn. My husband, Adam, and I, along with our two young children, Pepper and Emilia, sat quietly in our Lexus GX 470, pulling a 20-foot Koala Super Lite travel trailer. As we began the aggressively-graded ascent on the Monarch Pass, I looked out the passenger window and saw a young billy goat munching away at the base of the mountain.

I was gearing up for the long drive ahead of us, leaning back in the passen ger seat, sipping my coffee, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, when the check engine light made its silent appearance.

“It’s probably just a glitch,” my husband said reassuringly. Before he could get the last word out of his mouth, a sound like a bomb came from underneath the hood, followed immediately by a plume of white smoke.

We pulled over and, as quickly as our shaking hands could muster, pulled the kids and the dog out of the back seat to put some distance between us and the car in case the engine caught fire.

This trip was a shift from a normally watery lifestyle on our 38-foot sailing catamaran. We are used to traveling by sailboat in tumultuous oceans, where the weather can turn you upside down, or a faulty thru hull can leave you bailing buckets of water out of your boat. Compared to that, this coast-to-coast RV trip should have been

a breeze! Any calamities that might befall us on the road couldn’t hold a candle to the stresses of trying to keep everyone alive and safe on our boat, where anchors drag in the middle of the night and motors die in the middle of open water. I mean, at least if something goes wrong in an RV, you’re not going to sink, right?

A few terrifying minutes passed as the sun started to rise. As the smoke dissipated, we put the kids back in their car seats and ran through our options. Adam is a gifted handyman and can tackle just about any mechanical emergency, but a smoking car on the side of the road was beyond his scope. Since we also didn’t have cell service, it didn’t take us long to rummage to the bottom of our empty bag of choices.

As I stood on the left side of the pulloff, a huge RV veered dangerously close to our broken-down Lexus, and I started to realize the perils of our situation. The minutes ticked on as car after car passed without stopping. “Is anyone going to stop and help us?” I wondered.

As panic began to entwine its fingers around my gut, an old van pulled up and a middle-aged, long-haired hippie sauntered up to our engine with a joint hanging out of his mouth. His hands looked like they were born and raised inside of a car motor. No introductions necessary. After some tinkering and diagnosing, he started to explain to us what we needed to do to get rolling again, at which point, he dropped the radiator’s cap spring into the radiator … not a good turn of events.

Luckily, our good samaritan had another card up his sleeve—a phone with cell service! I got AAA on the phone, and when the dispatcher asked me, “Is everyone in a safe place?” I answered with a resounding “NO!” She said they would send a tow truck driver.

Our hippie friend went on his way, since he couldn’t give us a ride with our kids and car seats. A police officer who’d heard AAA chatter over the dispatch radio showed up in a truck. We had no way of knowing when AAA would make their appearance, so we opted to get the kids somewhere safe while we waited. The logistics of transporting the two kids with their car seats in a loaded-down police vehicle left us mentally drained and physically exhausted.

And the logistics of AAA were even worse. They’ll only tow your vehicle if you are with it, but they also can’t tell you when they’ll be there to tow you. And anyone who has ever used AAA knows that it usually takes forever. The police officer shuttled us to the nearest convenience store at the top of the Monarch Pass, and we shuffled into a little corner of the shop with two cumbersome, crumb-filled car seats, one dog, one hamster, one baby, and one toddler. Sheesh.

We still had no cell service, so we used the landline at the gift shop while AAA gave us the runaround. The gift shop employees didn’t want us to tie up their phone lines, so Adam intermittently used the tram to get to the top of the

mountain, where he would occasionally get one bar of service. On one of his trips, he called another tow service, since AAA is about as helpful as corn on a fishing line.

Because we had no way of knowing when the tow truck would arrive, I started to worry—would we have to sleep here on the dirty carpet of this store all night? I was almost panicking, and the gift store attendants were starting to give me the stink eye. While we waited, the cashier officially banned me from using their phone, saying, “We’ve been plenty helpful to you all and we don’t want you tying up our phone lines anymore.”

Tears began to stream down my face. Emilia, completely unaware of the drama and sunny as ever, was showing her hamster, Squeaky, to everyone in the store. Leave it to a toddler to turn a crisis into a hamster show and tell.

Like it or not, we were stuck in the gift shop, and they would be closing soon. Just then, the first tow truck driver

appeared, emanating angelic glory. Adam left with him to get the brokendown RV, and the second tow truck driver walked into the gift shop, asking around for a stranded woman and two kids. Yep, that’s me!

We made it back to Salida, to the kind and welcoming embrace of Riverside RV Park, where we took a few days to recover from the mental exhaustion of our 12 harrowing hours. I ran on Salida’s breathtaking greenway for miles and miles, and did some roller skating with Emilia. Adam went fly fishing in the Arkansas River, one of the best trout fishing rivers in the country.

I have a few takeaways from this calamity on the road. One is a common theme that comes up between myself and the naysayers among my friends and family who denounce our dangerous/adventurous traveling lifestyle— perceived danger versus real danger. In our sailboat, everything feels very unstable, and if you're a control freak, like me, it’s a very uncomfortable place to be. The RV trip definitely feels safer.

Hamster, 'Squeaky' is ready to roll.

But what is truly safe? Sailing might feel dangerous, but statistically, it's far safer than being in a car. In fact, for most of us, even fun-loving adventurers like ourselves, driving in a car on the highway is probably the most dangerous thing you’ll ever do.

The second takeaway is to have a satellite phone. We came across more places without cell service on this coast-to-coast journey than we did traveling down the Intracoastal Waterway on our sailboat from North Carolina to the Florida Keys.

Lastly, if you see someone in distress, ask yourself if helping them would put you in any danger. If the answer is no, then do the altruistic part of your brain a solid, and help a fellow human out.

For more on Olivia’s travels, follow her on Instagram @theboatnotes and on her blog, theboatnotes.com

The adventure continues to places like Joshua Tree National Park!

CAREERS ON THE ROAD

FINDING A WAY to fund travel is essential, and there are many different ways to make the full-time lifestyle work for you. From creative businesses to seasonal gigs to unique side hustles, our readers reveal how they make money on the road.

@fiftyandfifthwheeling “Driving trucks for wheat, bean, and beet harvest”

ON THE HUNT

Stressful Job Search Leads to Workamping Gigs

By Lacey Esposita

MY HUSBAND AND I are new to fulltime RV life, and to RV life in general. We jumped right in from our sticks and bricks home, having never taken so much as a weekend trip in an RV.

We didn’t work for the first three months because we wanted to enjoy the road, learn about our rig, explore, and relax. This break was really needed, because we were burned out after working overtime at our jobs along with renovating our house for the past two years. But even though we wanted to relax, I quickly felt the need to generate income.

I got online and spent hours researching. I found several websites that publish ads for workampers, which seemed like the best option for us.

Next, I searched for jobs in places where we wanted to be. I applied to several positions and got no responses. This went on for weeks. We were nearing the end of our last planned stop and had nowhere to go. I was about to lose hope of finding a winter job, or even a place to park and live long term.

We left our camp in upstate New York with no reservations and no prospects, and moochdocked at my parents’ house while continuing to look for jobs. From there, we went to my brother’s house. We were slowly making our way south, trying to stay ahead of the cold weather and hoping we would hear back from someone about an available site. Finally, we got a response from a park in the Florida panhandle. I felt lucky and so relieved to have a place to go.

The park was in need of office help—answering phone calls and emails, making reservations, taking payments, cleaning up the office, and keeping the park tidy. The job sounded easy enough. In exchange for 24 hours a week,

I was about to lose hope of finding a winter job, or even a place to park and live long term.

we had a site in a warm place for the winter. Even though this was an unpaid position, we considered it a positive. We learned campground master booking software, gained valuable experience, and hopefully will have a reference in the future.

After arriving, we wasted no time looking for our next job; we didn’t want to be down to the wire again when our time here ended. By the beginning of 2023, we had already secured a position with pay for the summer! In March, our commitment at our first park was fulfilled and we headed north to Michigan. My role is similar to the first park, and my husband is working outside, helping people back into their sites, cleaning the grounds between guests, cleaning fire rings, and delivering wood.

Only time will tell if we’re able to cover our cost of living, but I know this is a step in the right direction. Michigan is a brand new state for both of us—a place we’d never thought about visiting—which is perfect, because this journey is about traveling somewhere new.

For more on Lacey’s travels, follow her Instagram page @whatlaceyloves

Adirondack Mountains, Lewis, NY

Even though this was an unpaid position, we considered it a positive.

TAKING THE PLUNGE

Learning

By Rachel Skytta-Davis

IWAS TWO MARGARITAS deep on a weekday, crying inside our neighborhood Mexican restaurant. I had just walked out of my TV news station in Denver for the last time, leaving behind my career as a reporter to move into a renovated camper and travel the country. My husband and I were celebrating, and I was scared, overwhelmed, and exhilarated.

More than two years earlier, my then-boyfriend, Cole, and I took a deep dive down the YouTube rabbit hole of full-time RV life. We were intrigued, to say the least. At the time, he was a college track and field coach, meaning neither of us had a job that aligned with the digital nomad lifestyle. But we were determined to make it happen, even if it meant leaving the only careers we’d ever known.

I didn’t have a job lined up when I walked away from TV news, which partially explains why I was crying over my plate of tacos. Fortunately, over the course of the intervening two years, Cole and I had gotten married, and he had found a fully remote position, so we had made some progress!

WHAT WE DO NOW

Cole is a travel nurse recruiter, which is exactly what it sounds like—he recruits nurses and helps place them in travel

nursing jobs across the country. It’s a pretty typical 9 to 5 that requires a lot of time on the phone and in front of a computer. We took that into consideration while renovating our camper by trying to make our dining area as comfortable as possible for remote work.

I did not have a full-time job when we hit the road, but I do have several small sources of income—I do freelance voiceover work, freelance on-camera spokesperson jobs, and receive a little bit of ad revenue from YouTube.

WORKING ON THE ROAD

A strong Internet connection is the most important need for working on the road, and as it turns out, it’s not always easy to find in remote areas! Initially, we relied solely on a Verizon Wi-Fi hotspot, and when we quickly realized that wasn’t enough, we added a second hotspot from T-Mobile. Having two separate carriers acts as a safety net, since we’re often in an area where one carrier works better than the other. I rely on a few different apps to find campgrounds where our signal will likely be strong enough to support our

work needs. There are apps that allow you to filter by your specific cell carrier, but it’s good to read recent reviews as well, because the filters are not always the most reliable. In addition to checking apps and reading reviews, I also pull up our cell carrier’s coverage map and check our specific campground location.

Finding a quiet workspace can be a challenge. Our camper is tiny—144 square feet with two adults, two dogs, and no separate rooms. We learned early on that Cole works best with very few distractions. That means I’m often working out of the truck, which actually provides great sound for voiceover work! When the weather cooperates, I can set up an outdoor office in our screened-in tent.

MOVING WITH THE WORK WEEK

One of the greatest challenges we faced initially was packing up and moving mid-week, especially after a long workday. We often felt rushed and

distracted by the work that goes into breaking down and setting up our rig. A few months in, we decided to only move on weekends. Choosing to move with the work week improved our mental health and also gave us more time to settle into each site.

CONSTANTLY LEARNING

The nerves we felt jumping into full-time RV life have settled, but the learning never stops. If I could share one piece of advice with my former self, I’d say to slow down. The more we’ve slowed down our travel, the more we’ve learned what works for us as digital nomads. We’ve also discovered the value of looking to more experienced full-time travelers for inspiration and guidance in our own remote work setup.

For more on Rachel and Cole’s life from the road, visit them on Instagram @workinforthewild

M A N R V 1 0 1

f e a t u r e s a n i n l e t 4 f u n c t i o n ( 4 p o s i t i o n )

l o w l e a d b r a s s v a l v e t h a t i s u s e d f o r

f i l l i n g t h e h o l d i n g t a n k , p r e s s u r i z i n g

t h e f i x t u r e s w h e n y o u h a v e a w a t e r

s u p p l y , p u m p f r o m t h e t a n k d u r i n g

d r y c a m p i n g a n d h e l p y o u w i t h

w i n t e r i z i n g a n d s a n i t i z i n g y o u r u n i t .

M A N R V 1 0 2

f e a t u r e s a n i n l e t 4 f u n c t i o n ( 4 p o s i t i o n ) l o w l e a d b r a s s v a l v e t h a t i s u s e d f o r f i l l i n g t h e h o l d i n g t a n k , p r e s s u r i z i n g t h e f i x t u r e s w h e n y o u h a v e a w a t e r s u p p l y , p u m p f r o m t h e t a n k d u r i n g d r y c a m p i n g a n d h e l p y o u w i t h w i n t e r i z i n g a n d s a n i t i z i n g y o u r u n i t . T h e

M A N R V 1 0 2 a l s o i n c l u d e s a 3 f u n c t i o n ( 3 p o s i t i o n ) l o w l e a d b r a s s w a t e r h e a t e r b y p a s s v a l v e . N o r m a l p o s i t i o n w h e n t h e u n i t n e e d s h o t w a t e r t o f i x t u r e s . B y p a s s p o s i t i o n f o r m a i n t e n a n c e o n h o t w a t e r h e a t e r a n d t h i r d p o s i t i o n f o r s a n i t i z i n g y o u r f r e s h w a t e r t a n k

Making Money to

Fund Travel

By Shannon Murray

WHO DOESN’T GROW tired of two-hour commutes in standstill traffic? Who hasn’t daydreamed of working on the beach, under the shade of a palm tree? That daydream was ours for years, and it seemed about as realistic as winning the lottery. Then one day, it wasn’t a dream anymore!

My husband, Bobby, and I work remotely, but we have also developed a variety of supplemental income sources, building on our passions and our nomadic life. We want to encourage anyone dreaming of a freer lifestyle to explore the possibilities, and realize this crazy life isn’t just for retirees or the ultra-rich!

FULL-TIME REMOTE CAREERS

I had dreamed of full-time travel before I even had a career, but it seemed like something only a lucky few could achieve. We were both working corporate office jobs when COVID hit, and one of us went full-time remote, while the other lost their job. It made us stop and think about what we really wanted.

So, we sold our log cabin near Chicago and bought a 35-foot travel trailer. Three years later, I’m working remotely full time for a national medical association overseeing accreditation compliance in continuing education. Bobby works as an IT manager, which sometimes takes him onsite to different locations across the United States. When onsite work is required, we’ve planned our route to drop in where he is needed, which has allowed us to visit places we would not likely have seen otherwise! Obviously, Internet access is critical for our remote jobs. We have a T-Mobile hotspot, Starlink, and a Pepwave device

Remote Work Resources

• volunteer.gov for opportunities with the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other government organizations. Most offer park stays in exchange for work.

• istockphoto.com, gettyimages. com, and shutterstock.com to sell photography

• workamper.com for a wide variety of job opportunities

• rverjobexchange.com for many different work openings, from camp hosting to remote administrative jobs

that is a Wi-Fi extender and has dual SIM card access for mobile connectivity. We’ve tried just about every option available, and rely on Starlink most often.

CONTRACT WORK

Living a unique lifestyle has opened doors to other income as well. IT skills are in demand, and Bobby often finds IT contracting work with local businesses, and even with other nomads needing assistance. The jobs can range in complexity from installing a TV to setting up an entire network, and the pay might buy us dinner or double our income for the month. The bottom line is, no job is too small.

I’ve delved into social media management after gaining experience with our own accounts. Several RV parks have contracted with me to handle their Instagram and Facebook accounts, which includes creating engaging posts and sometimes taking photographs and videos. To do this successfully, you need to know their goals and expectations, as well as establish your rates up front.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography goes hand in hand with social media management, but it can be an income unto itself. If your photos are good and you have an eye for interesting scenes, consider selling some of your work online. You can set up accounts on stock photo sites, or you can charge for your photos and licensing rights in partnership arrangements, as we have done.

PARTNERSHIPS

We’ve run our travel blog, Snorkels and Snowpants, since 2018. I was fortunate to already have it in place, with an audience, when we hit the road. I was also running our Instagram in conjunction with the blog.

With that portfolio, we began reaching out to various organizations for partnerships and collaborations. Can you imagine my thrilled surprise on our first accepted proposal? We did not, and still don’t, have a million followers or the most beautiful website. We aren’t a massive account featured in worldwide publications. We’re just a real couple doing what we love, with an audience some businesses find relatable. This has led to rent-free stays at RV parks, no-cost professional photo shoots, and some paid gigs.

TRAVEL WRITING

If it wasn’t already obvious, I also write! I had been writing our blog for years when I started to wonder if I could write for someone else and be paid for it. With the number of online and print publications, there are many opportunities, though they won’t always be well paid, or paid at all! Until that book deal comes along, travel writing isn’t going to support us, but it does provide great supplemental income.

GO FOR IT!

There are plenty of options to support this lifestyle, whether it’s with a full-time remote job, as a handyman on the move, or as a photographer for hire. We’ve only scratched the surface; there are so many opportunities out there when you look. The National Park Service posts hundreds of temporary jobs throughout the year, and there are numerous organizations that list campground jobs, seasonal office work, and more. Some are paid, while others are in exchange for free stays or accommodations. I hope you’ll decide to go for that nomadic life you’ve been dreaming of!

Find Shannon and Bobby on Instagram @snorkelsandsnowpants or at snorkelsandsnowpants.com

Southern Vancouver Southern Vancouver ISLAND ISLAND

British Columbia, Canada

By Marie Casey

VANCOUVER ISLAND IS off the western coast of Canada and very accessible, with ferries to the biggest city, Victoria, operating daily from Port Angeles, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia. With the mildest temperatures Canada has to offer, the southern part of the island is a haven for outdoor activities year-round, with numerous parks, beaches, waterfalls, and hiking and biking trails.

Our base on Vancouver Island was Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina, overlooking the Salish Sea in the town of Metchosin. Victoria is a great day trip and only 40 minutes away—check out the Fairmont Empress on the waterfront, the BC government buildings, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Songhees Walkway, and the float homes at Westbay Marina.

At the opposite end of Victoria is the wild west coast, with the Coast Trail at East Sooke Regional Park and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail toward Port Renfrew. These trails can be hiked in portions rather than end to end. Getting to and from the Coast Trail was pleasant at either end, but tedious in the middle section—scrambling down the rocky oceanfront cliffs was challenging for us.

There are beaches to explore and camping opportunities westward along British Columbia Highway 14. We recommend exploring Mystic Beach, Botany Bay, Sandcut Beach, and Botanical Beach; camping at French Beach; and surfing and camping at Jordan River and Sombrio Beach. Exploring

out here requires a full day or two, as the drive can be up to 60 miles one way on the narrow winding road.

We especially recommend at least visiting Mystic Beach and Sombrio Beach. The hike to Mystic Beach is an easy 2.5 miles out and back, and you cannot miss the waterfall at the far end of the beach. The hike to Sombrio Beach is an easy 1 mile out and back, but finding the waterfall is a mission, so make sure you have an offline version of the instructions before leaving home. These falls are truly hidden and cannot be seen from the beach—you will walk right past the entrance if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

More Activities To Do

• Stroll along the Gorge Waters and see the Reversing Falls and cultivated gardens at the various parks along the pathway

• Hike the lake loop at Thetis Lake Regional Park

• Check out the island’s Niagara Falls, hike Gold Mine Trail at Goldstream Park, and catch the salmon run in the fall

• Swim in the Sooke River at Sooke Potholes Provincial Park and hike the Peden Lake Trail to Mary Vine Creek Falls at the adjoining Sea To Sea Regional Park

• Have a picnic at Esquimalt Lagoon and walk the beach to the west end, where dogs are allowed off-leash

Hidden falls at Sombrio Beach

Places to Eat

Sugar Shack: Just up the road from Pedder Bay is a very popular cafe with an attached bakery, aptly named Sugar Shack, with fresh items baked daily, ice cream, shakes, floats, and coffee. We were weekly customers for their amazing cinnamon buns (with coconut flakes!) and New Zealandlike sausage rolls. Be sure to visit the Critter Corner in the back of the property, with goats, donkeys, bunnies, and chickens to enjoy a picnic or ice cream with.

Finest At Sea: Coming from New Zealand, we are always on the lookout for good fish and chips, and this spot, just up the road from Fisherman’s Wharf in Victoria, served up the goods.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time on Vancouver Island, and if we had to spend another winter in Canada, southern Vancouver Island would definitely be our choice. Otherwise, the ideal time to be here is late summer to early fall.

Float homes at Westbay Marina

Overlooking Pedder Bay Marina from the RV park

More Activities To Do

• Ride or walk on the Galloping Goose Regional Trail—this well-maintained, 35-mile multiuse rail trail connects Victoria to Leechtown, north of Sooke

• Mountain bike at Mount Work Regional Park, which is a great network of trails for bikes only

• Go for an easy and shaded hike on Killarney Lake

Marie shares her adventures on Instagram @awesome.journies

Victoria Harbour

Sunset on Whiffin Spit in Sooke

VANLIFE INTERNATIONAL

A Costa Rican Volcano Tour

By Ann Brampton

ANY THINGS AMAZE me about Costa Rica, including its vast biodiversity and amazing beaches. But the thing that amazes me most is the number of dormant and active volcanoes. San José alone sits in a valley surrounded by four, two of which have erupted in the last two to four years. Even after 40-plus years of living here, I’m still blown away, and most of the population continues to live as if this was normal … because it is!

The volcanoes were my inspiration for a recent road trip. After living in my van for a year, I missed being on the road, and my bucket list item of trying to visit as many volcanoes as possible was looking like a great idea. My plan was to visit eight of the main volcanoes in just one week.

Parked just below Turrialba Volcano National Park

My journey started with the Irazú Volcano, the tallest one at 11,260 feet.

I enjoyed my breakfast at Restaurante Linda Vista, a spot I’ve visited since I was about 12. It’s a unique and eclectic eatery at the foot of the volcano, where Juan is always friendly and happy to tell stories about the area. The key ingredient to visiting any volcano in Costa Rica is patience. I stood next to the crater for part of the morning, waiting for the wind to blow, in order to see the majestic view, and when it did, I was even treated to a rainbow in the crater.

This little country never ceases to surprise me. Anyone who thinks Costa Rica is all about palm trees, flip-flops, and sunny beaches has never been to the volcanic areas surrounding the city. The following days were about 5 to 11 degrees Celsius, so I loaded up on blankets and warm drinks. I grabbed a hot chocolate just before driving to my next destination, Turrialba Volcano.

Turrialba is hands-down one of my favorite volcanoes to camp. Standing tall at 10,958 feet, it’s currently one of the most active volcanoes in the area. Fun fact—10-plus years ago, when I was supporting expeditions for Outward Bound, I was able to walk into the crater and sit there, as it was completely dormant. Today, it’s an active body of hot mud, rock, and steam. And I get to camp right below! There is truly no feeling like a relaxed morning with views of burned trees, rocky slopes, and ash from the consistent eruptions. And the cold nights are perfect for a bowl of “olla de carne,” the most typical soup dish in Costa Rica, kindly provided by the little campground store, and made with local produce. The morning was crisp with bluebird skies and the perfect backdrop for hot coffee and packing the van for my next destination—north across the San José valley, and up to Barva Volcano.

Barva is currently dormant, and just as stunning as the others, but in different ways. It doesn’t have a spectacular view, but the area is very lush and green. Unfortunately, access to the national park requires a fourwheel-drive vehicle. This is one of the few downfalls of vanlife in Costa Rica, but I am accustomed to making it work. I landed at Finca La Colasa, a new little campground at the foot of the volcano. As it was Sunday night, I had the place all to myself, perfect for a campfire and catching up with work before waking up early, watching the sunrise, and walking the trails.

Volcano waterfall at Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Cloudy van views of Arenal Volcano and lake at Mirador La Armonía campground

Morning coffee is one of my favorite parts of the day—there’s nothing like sitting outside to start the day with journaling and meditation. On this trip, even with the extensive driving, I made the time to enjoy my daily routine before any planning, hiking, or exploring. Next on the list is a short 2.5-hour drive to Poás Volcano.

Poás Volcano National Park reopened with limited access to the public in 2022, after the last eruption in 2019 caused damage to the park and the general area. I had arrived in the land of farmland, cheese, and strawberries. Poasito (little Poás) is a quaint town with farmers selling their products on the road, little mountain cabins, friendly folks, and stunning views. Because of the recent volcanic activity, there are not many campgrounds available. So

this time, I decided to moochdock at a friend’s farm just 10 minutes below the park.

What a spectacular day! Poás is one of the few volcanoes where you can stand at the crater’s edge. I hadn’t been there in years, and I was speechless at how the crater had changed. Standing next to the new fluorescent light blue lake was fascinating. The signs signaling safe areas, hazard zones, restricted access, and volcanic gas monitors were

Sunset views of the city of San Jose from Secret Garden Cabins

all reminders that volcanic activity could bubble up at any time. After a little hike to the lake, I grabbed a couple of hot chocolates and hopped in the van for my longest day of driving.

Costa Rica never ceases to surprise me, with its rainbows, wildlife, sunsets, beaches, and rainforests. But also, the weather! And that’s the story of my next three days. La Armonía Lookout is my go-to camping spot in the Arenal Volcano area. It’s quiet, private, and has stunning views of the lake and of Arenal, one of the few conically-shaped volcanoes in the world. After a quiet night, I woke up to one of the most amazing sunrises I’ve ever seen, and then the storm front rolled in, so I packed the van and switched out my hiking plans for a local farm visit. When I lived in the van, I always tried to talk to the locals, learn about the area, and make new friends, and I was often invited to come stay at these new friends’ farms! Between Arenal and my next stop, I decided to take a friend up on their offer.

After spending a few hours in Finca Las Damas for some horse kisses, I headed to volcano number six, Tenorio. Just 30 miles south of Nicaragua, Tenorio Volcano stands dormant and is most known for the “Río Celeste” area, a notorious and distinctive turquoise river. This area has been high on my

list for years, and it’s best to visit during the summer, which is why it’s among the least popular of all. However, the storm had worsened, and the volcano was not only clouded up, but the entire area was foggy, wet, and muddy. As the time came to find a campsite, I quickly realized I had nowhere to sleep. Costa

Leaving Irazú Volcano National Park

Laguna Botos, upper lake of the Poás Volcano

Rica has nearly no camping laws, so parking spots are usually easy to find, but that’s not the case in the less popular areas, e.g., dormant volcanoes high up north. I quickly realized this would be a brisk drive-through as I needed to make my way to camp before dark. And just like that, I arrived at my seventh volcano, Miravalles.

After all that driving, I needed a break! Luckily, just at the foot of the Miravalles Volcano, I found Yoko Termales, a local business with thermal pools and a campsite with a concrete slab. It was time to sleep, catch up on work, sit in the hot pools with a cocktail, order a pizza, and wait for the volcano to clear up. Two days later, I woke up to an almost clear volcano. Miravalles houses one of Costa Rica’s largest geothermal energy plants, and it’s illegal to climb. So I had to settle for a drive-by before heading to my last destination.

The storm cleared as I rolled

Morning coffee at Hacienda la Central with views of Turrialba Volcano

Fun stop at Finca Las Damas farm, an invitation from some local farmers in the Arenal Volcano area.

down the Pan-American Highway, and I was back to my summer days. This was the perfect backdrop for the last volcano on my list, Rincón de la Vieja. I crossed this national park on foot many years ago and have always wanted to go back, but after its latest eruption in 2021, the park has remained closed until recently. This made it even more special. As this area has been closed off for the past few years, nearby campsites have also shut down. This was the perfect excuse for one more night of moochdocking and catching up with good friends. Day eight arrived with perfect dry, sunny weather and the last volcano on my list. After the last days of rain, I was prepared to close this trip with a bang, and that’s exactly what happened. Rincón de la Vieja is stunning—a dry hike surrounded by mud pools, large areas of steam, and even a “volcancito” (little volcano) where you can stand next to a hole in the ground, listen to the rumble, and feel the hot, stinky steam on your face. What a wonderful way to end this trip, walking through tree roots, rivers, more mud pools, and one fantastic waterfall to seal the deal.

Ann shares her travels on YouTube and Instagram at @vanlifeann

Summer in

TELLURIDE, COLORADO

The Best Things to Do

By Nicoll Davis

TELLURIDE IS A charming mountain town in Colorado that has become one of the most sought-after getaways in the region. With its breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains and its smalltown feel, it’s no wonder visitors flock here from all over the world.

Despite its popularity, Telluride has managed to maintain its small-town charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed and intimate experience. The town’s picturesque setting, nestled in a box canyon, offers visitors a stunning backdrop for a variety of unforgettable summer activities and attractions.

HOW TO GET TO TELLURIDE

There are a few ways to get to Telluride, but the most scenic and adventurous is to take the San Juan Skyway. The Skyway is a 233-mile loop that connects Telluride with Durango, Silverton, and Ouray, and offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains.

Another option is to fly into Telluride Regional Airport, which is a 6-minute drive from the town of Telluride, with a direct flight from Denver that takes roughly an hour.

RIDE THE FREE TELLURIDE GONDOLA

Once you arrive, the first thing on your list should be the Telluride Gondola, a free transportation system that takes you from Telluride to Mountain Village. This 13-minute ride is a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The Telluride Gondola carries about 2.8 million passengers per year. It can accommodate bikes during the summer months, and there are pet cabins too, so furry friends can join in on the fun.

EXPLORE MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

After taking in the stunning views from the gondola ride, make your way to the charming Mountain Village for even more adventures. Take a stroll through the European-style village and check out the unique shops and boutiques. You’ll find everything from high-end clothing stores to handmade crafts and souvenirs.

HIKE TELLURIDE’S BREATHTAKING TERRAIN

Telluride has an abundance of trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to challenging ascents. One of my favorites is the Hope Lake Trail, where you’ll trek through pristine forests and meadows to reach the stunning Hope Lake.

Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Bridal Veil Falls hike, where you’ll hike to the end of the box canyon to reach the top of a 365-foot waterfall, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado. And if that’s not enough, head on over to the Bear Creek Trail, where you’ll traverse through breathtaking canyons and forests to witness the beauty of yet another waterfall cascading 60 feet.

The hike to Mount Sneffels via Yankee Boy Basin is a heavily-trafficked trail that offers great views of the San Juan Mountains.

ATTEND A VIBRANT FESTIVAL

Summertime in Telluride is festival season, with a variety of events to choose from. The Telluride Bluegrass Festival is one of the most popular, bringing together some of the world’s top bluegrass musicians for a weekend of live music and celebration. There’s also a wine festival, a yoga festival, and a jazz festival, just to name a few.

KAYAK OR PADDLEBOARD ON TROUT LAKE

Just 14 miles outside of town, Trout Lake is one of the most scenic and accessible alpine lakes near Telluride. This picturesque lake sits at 9,716 feet above sea level within Uncompahgre National Forest and is the perfect spot to enjoy some time on the water.

Bridal Veil Falls

DOWNTOWN TELLURIDE

Downtown Telluride is a vibrant and bustling area filled with a rich history. It boasts an array of activities and establishments that cater to all kinds of visitors, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor cultural experiences. The town center is home to shops, art galleries, and specialty boutiques. You can also spend an afternoon exploring the Telluride Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s rich history and the lives of the people who once lived there. In addition to shopping and museums, visitors can take part in experiences such as art walks and wine tastings.

EXPERIENCE THE VIA FERRATA

For those seeking a more thrilling adventure, the Via Ferrata is a must-try. Italian for “Iron Road,” it’s a European-style climbing route that is a mix of hiking and rock climbing, with iron rungs and cables providing a secure path across steep cliffs and narrow ledges. It’s an exhilarating experience that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

GO ZIP LINING

Experience the thrill of zip lining through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. And don’t worry if you’re a newbie—the friendly and knowledgeable guides at Telluride Canopy Adventure will show you the ropes and ensure your safety.

OFF-ROADING JEEP TOUR

Telluride was once a bustling mining town that left behind many mining roads that provide access to some of the highest mountain passes. Jeep tours offer an unforgettable experience for any adventure seeker. With options like Imogene Pass, Ophir Pass, or Black Bear Pass, you’ll experience breathtaking views on the same mining roads miners used more than a century ago.

DISCOVER THE HEALING MAGIC OF HOT SPRINGS

Looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience near Telluride? Head on over to the Ouray Hot Springs for a soak in the mineral-rich waters that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, check out Dunton Hot Springs, where you can relax in the serene and secluded waters. And for those seeking a more luxurious experience, there’s Orvis Hot Springs, where you can indulge in the ultimate spa day with multiple hot springs, a sauna, and even a meditation dome.

CAMPING NEAR TELLURIDE

You won’t find many campgrounds in town. In fact, there’s only one—the Telluride Town Park Campground. But don’t fret if you don’t get a spot there! Here are some of the best places to park your RV and set up camp near Telluride:

Matterhorn Campground

Sunshine Campground

Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

Alta Lakes Dispersed Camping

Woods Lake Campground

Travel Tips for Visiting Telluride

in the Summer

Stock up on groceries:

There is only one grocery store in town, so plan ahead and be prepared for the high prices of food at this popular tourist destination!

Drink lots of water:

High elevation can be harmful to your health if you’re not hydrated, so be sure to drink plenty of fluids before any outdoor activity.

Prepare for altitude sickness:

Altitude sickness, sometimes called mountain sickness, is an uncomfortable condition that many people experience if they don’t acclimate properly before going up in elevation. The CDC recommends ascending gradually and avoiding alcohol and heavy exercise for a couple of days after arriving. There is also medicine that can help, so you may want to check with your doctor before visiting.

Wear sunscreen:

Our chance of sunburn increases at high elevation because the sun is stronger.

Mount Sneffels

Visiting Telluride in the summer can be a truly unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, abundance of outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scene, this charming mountain town offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to hike through the mountains, attend a music festival, or simply relax and take in the scenery, Telluride has it all. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the best that Telluride has to offer.

Nicoll and her husband, Jake, share their travels on Instagram

@livingtinywithawolf

Hope Lake

Driving the Alaska Highway

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE • BY KATHRYN FRAZER

DURING THE SUMMER of 2022, we checked off a bucket list item that quickly became one of our favorite things we have ever done—driving the Alaska Highway! We experienced remote parts of Canada, saw gorgeous scenery, stopped at unique and beautiful spots, and formed new friendships with other travelers who were on the same journey.

There’s a lot to know before you decide to tackle the Alaska Highway, and in this guide we’re sharing our top tips, what to bring, our favorite stops, and so much more, to help you have a fun and safe journey!

ABOUT THE ALASKA HIGHWAY

The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan, runs 2,232 kilometers (1,387 miles) from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, through the Yukon, and ends in Delta Junction, Alaska.

While now known for being one of the few ways to drive to Alaska, the highway was actually created to protect the United States. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, there was increasing concern about how the U.S. could defend Alaska, which led to the decision to create a land route between the lower 48 states and Alaska.

The construction began in March 1942, and by June, more than 10,000 American soldiers had poured into Canada. With the help of 16,000 Canadian and American civilians, the highway was initially completed just eight months after construction started.

Things to know before driving the Alaska Highway

WHEN TO VISIT

While the Alaska Highway can technically be driven year round, it is best to travel between May and September, when it’s free of snow. Many businesses and attractions along the highway operate seasonally, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

HOW MUCH TIME YOU NEED

The Alaska Highway is a 23-hour drive without stops, but we spent seven full days along the road, which was a good amount of time to be able to experience its major highlights.

TYPE OF VEHICLE

Since the Alaska Highway is paved, minus construction areas, it is suitable for small cars and large RVs.

BUY THE MILEPOST

The MILEPOST is a large, annual travel guide to all of the routes to and in Alaska, with mile-by-mile descriptions and other information. It’s worth the investment to have an additional resource while driving the Alaska Highway.

Muncho Lake

Alaska Highway Packing List

Tire repair kit

Emergency tool kit

Spare tire

Plenty of food and water

The MILEPOST

Offline maps

Garmin inReach Mini

Hiking gear

Bear spray

Binoculars

Bug repellent

Swimsuit

Camera

Downloaded podcasts and music

Passport

Cash (both Canadian and American)

ROAD CONDITIONS

The Alaska Highway is a two-lane highway. Some sections are perfectly paved, and others are a bit bumpy, with potholes and frost heaves, which are like speed bumps that form from harsh winter condi tions. Most of these rough spots will be marked with an orange flag or cone, but not all are, so stay alert!

You will also encounter areas under construction, which can add delays to your drive. To see construction updates and road conditions ahead of time, check out 511 Yukon and DriveBC.

CELL SERVICE

Cell service is sporadic on the Alaska Highway—we sometimes went days with no service at all. As of 2023, Starlink works in this part of Canada, and we think it will make a huge difference with connectivity on the road.

But just to be safe, we highly recommend downloading offline Google Maps, AllTrails maps, and any other documents you may need. We also used our Garmin inReach Mini throughout the drive to text updates to family members

SERVICES ALONG THE ALASKA HIGHWAY Fuel

A general rule of thumb is to never let your tank get below half full. There will be plenty of opportunities to refuel, so the majority of travelers will be fine, but we brought extra fuel cans just to be safe. Thankfully, we never needed them!

Grocery stores

While there are some stores along the drive, we found the grocery stores in Dawson Creek and Whitehorse to be the best, so we’d recommend stocking up there.

Laundry

Campgrounds, plus the larger towns of Dawson Creek and Whitehorse, have laundromats. Be sure to have Canadian cash on you for these!

Places to stay

The Alaska Highway offers a variety of lodging, including paid campgrounds, free boondocking spots, lodges, and hotels. You should always be able to find somewhere to stay!

The best stops along the Alaska Highway

Mile 0 Sign

Your first stop on the Alaska Highway has to be the welcome sign, which reads, “You are now entering the world famous Alaska Highway.” This quick photo stop is located just off the main road in Dawson Creek.

Cinnamon Buns

Cinnamon buns are a very popular food item on the Alaska Highway, and some of the best can be found at the Tetsa River Lodge (Milepost 375). They are super tasty and huge!

Cinnamon Buns

Muncho Lake

Stone Mountain Provincial Park

Stone Mountain Provincial Park is full of mountains, rivers, and lakes. You can camp, hike, fish, canoe, kayak, and more! These were some of our highlights:

• Flower Springs Lake Trail

• Baba Canyon Trail

• Summit Peak Trail

• Kayaking on Summit Lake

Muncho Lake

Muncho Lake is a turquoise lake that gets its name from the Kaska language, where “muncho” means “big lake.” That’s accurate—the lake is 7.5 miles long and a mile wide, and is reported to be 730 feet deep at its deepest point. You can experience this lake by kayak, camping, or by visiting a viewpoint at Milepost 463!

Liard River Hot Springs

Liard River Hot Springs is a must when driving the Alaska Highway! These hot springs are the second largest in Canada, and the public portion, called the Alpha Pool, ranges in temperature from 42 to 52 degrees Celsius (107 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit).

• The park opens at 7 a.m., and we recommend going early!

• There is a small fee to visit during the peak season.

• Getting to the hot springs requires a short walk on a boardwalk. Bring bear spray!

• There are changing rooms and toilets by the hot spring.

Liard River Hot Springs

Muncho Lake

Sign Post Forest

One of the most unique stops on the Alaska Highway is the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory. The Sign Post Forest was created during the construction of the Alaska Highway by a U.S. soldier named Carl Lindley, who was tasked with repairing directional signposts. When completing the job, he added a sign that showed the direction and mileage to his hometown of Danville, Illinois. Others followed suit, and there are now more than 91,000 signs here from all over the world. And yes, you can add your own!

Miles Canyon

Miles Canyon is located on the Yukon River, which is the second longest river in Canada at 3,190 kilometers (1,982 miles) long. It has a suspension bridge you can walk across, as well as other trails that follow the canyon!

Whitehorse

Whitehorse is the largest city in the Yukon, as well as the capital. It’s named after rapids on the Yukon River, which resembled the flowing manes of charging white horses.

Sign Post Forest

Things to do in Whitehorse

• Whitehorse Millennium Trail

• S.S. Klondike National

Historic Site

• Yukon Transportation Museum

• Yukon Beringia

Interpretive Centre

• Eat at Klondike Rib & Salmon or Night Market

• Grab coffee at Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters

Long Ago Peoples Place

Long Ago Peoples Place is a re-creation of a traditional First Nations village, where you can learn the history and culture of the Southern Tutchone people. On the tour, we learned about different structures and tools, and got to try bannock and tea. Call ahead or email to book your tour!

Kluane National Park

Kluane National Park covers more than 20,000 square kilometers of mountain wilderness and is home to the largest non-polar icefields in the world, plus Mount Logan, the highest peak in Canada and second highest in North America, at 5,959 meters (19,551 feet).

Eating at Klondike Rib and Salmon

Things to do in Kluane National Park

• Fish or kayak on Kathleen Lake

• King’s Throne Trail

• Soldier’s Summit Trail

• Saint Elias Lake Trail

• Sheep Creek Trail

• Take a flightseeing tour

WELCOME TO ALASKA SIGN

You made it to Alaska! Be sure to snap a photo with the Welcome to Alaska sign before going through customs. From here, there is still more of the Alaska Highway to drive, but in our opinion, the best stops along the highway itself are behind you. Don’t worry though, Alaska as a whole will have many epic adventures ahead!

Kathryn shares more travel guides on her blog, adventuresofaplusk.com, as well as on YouTube and Instagram @adventuresofaplusk

BOONDOCKING

Spread Creek Dispersed Campground

Moran, WY

43.77090, -110.48813

We absolutely loved waking up to a view of the Tetons glowing red in the sunrise from our campsite in the Spread Creek Dispersed Campground.

Originally we planned to stay a couple of nights, but we fell so in love with our spot that we stayed an entire week. The entrance is only a six-minute drive from the Moran entrance to Yellowstone National Park, but it might be a bit of a drive to get to some sites. Be aware the back sites may be difficult for a big rig to turn around.

This campground can be crowded, but there is an overflow camping area to wait a night for one of the 14 designated spots to open. We made Site 13 (all the way in the back) our home, and had more than enough Verizon cell service to get work done.

We enjoyed exploring the forest on dirt bikes and being visited by wildlife in the mornings—though we were surprised to drive by a grizzly bear on our way back!

This spot is only about 30 to 45 minutes from the quaint town of Jackson, Wyoming. If we didn’t have a set timeline, we would have stayed for the entire 14-day limit. I still think back to this time as one of our favorite stays during our cross-country adventure!

Contributed by Kristin Halls @kristininmotion

BOONDOCKING

Emerald Oaks Farm

Fort White, FL

29.91949, -82.65299

This spot is free for five nights, with free water that actually tastes great, and a free dump station—a winner in our book!

When our travel partners suggested staying at Emerald Oaks Farm in Fort White, Florida, we were excited. We pulled in and were welcomed by the hosts, Bill and Deb, who directed us toward the spacious, flat, grassy field with a pond in the center. (They call this area the “race track.”) Parking was wherever we’d like.

It was mid-January—Florida’s busy season—and we were surprised by how quiet it was. Out of 15 available spots, there were only about five or six other RVs at any given time.

AT&T and T-Mobile were both fast for working and streaming. Plus, there was a wide-open sky, making it ideal for Starlink and battery charging for solar setups. Generators are also allowed!

The property has a nice trail through the woods, and the spot is also less than 5 miles from O’Leno State Park, where you’ll find 20-plus miles of hiking trails. Fancy a bike ride, too? There’s a 26mile paved trail that passes by the property. There’s great coffee in town, and we saw a super cute vegan-friendly diner as we drove through High Springs. We didn’t have the chance to stop in, but now we have a great excuse to come back!

Contributed by Marco and Kim Brugnoli @away_everyday

BOONDOCKING

Darby Well Road

Ajo, AZ

32.33930, -112.84950

The border town of Ajo is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s the ticket for adventurers seeking desert quiet among verdant green saguaros. Sites are so widely spaced that you might not even see your neighbor. Enjoy dark, starry nights, impossibly blue days, and rocky hilltops from your own private cactus garden.

Plenty of campsites sit along the branches and loops that fork off the main road. Many camping spots can accommodate any RV, but big rigs may want to park and scout ahead, because not all roads have space to turn around. Some areas have some cell signal, and others are out of range. Campers should be aware of possible border patrol activity, but overall the area is safe to enjoy.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, which is 20 minutes south, has a more magnificent display of cacti and desert beauty than the famous Saguaro National Park. The Victoria Mine trail is spectacular, and this park might take the prize for the best desert sunset.

Contributed by Rachael Lyons @thetasteforadventure

PODCASTS FOR THE DRIVE

The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe

From pop culture to politics, history to Hollywood, each mystery is a true-ish tale about someone you know, filled with facts you don’t.

Movies with Ron

This podcast is for those who want to catch up on films they would otherwise never see. Major spoilers ahead, so proceed at your own peril.

Planet Money

Explore the forces that shape our lives. Don't just understand the economy—understand the world.

So Ambitious

So Ambitious tells stories about what’s possible when Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs can build uninterrupted— against all odds, with authenticity, and in community.

The Bible in a Year

You won’t just read the Bible in a year; you’ll finally understand how all the pieces of the Bible fit together to tell a story that continues in your life today.

Ridiculous Crime

True crime is more than blood, guts, mayhem, and murder. Hear outlandish tales of capers, heists, and cons that shine a light on the absurd and outrageous side of criminality.

Discovery

BBC World Service brings you explorations in the world of science.

The Deck

Working with investigators and family members, The Deck details some of the coldest cases around the country in hopes that someone listening can bring these victims the justice they deserve.

Podcasts are listed as a courtesy to our readers and compiled from recommendations in various social groups. If you have a podcast you think we should include, email us at collab@rootlessliving.com

GEAR

GUIDE

1. TRIMAX WHEEL CHOCK LOCK

Whether you're at home or away, lock your wheels so you have peace of mind that your rig will always stay right where you put it.

2. LONESTAR TRACKING GPS

If you need to track down your RV for any reason, having this system installed will help. Subscription required.

3. STAYSAFE 5-IN-1 FIRE EXTINGUISHER

This fire extinguisher is great to keep on hand—it's compact, easy to use, and can help you handle many types of small fires.

4. FURRION BACKUP CAMERA

Furrion's backup camera will help you navigate with ease.

5. LIPPERT SOLID STEP

Don't fall or get injured by unstable steps! Instead, install Lippert's Solid Step, which is compatible with many RVs.

6.

RV PROPANE GAS DETECTOR

PANGAEA

When you carry propane, it's important to monitor for leaks! This detector can help.

7. KIDDE BATTERY POWERED CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR

A battery-powered carbon monoxide detector is a must. This one is easy to install.

8. PROGRESSIVE INDUSTRIES SURGE PROTECTOR

Have confidence when hooking up to electric with this 30-amp surge protector.

Have a product you love and want to share? Tell us about it! Email collab@rootlessliving.com for a chance to have your product review featured in an upcoming issue.