February '25 Canlife Correspondence: Words of Wisdom, Ways to Advocate, Winter Wonderland, & RV Wine Tours!
"That's genius!" Hutch exclaims, "why haven't we done this before?" Every single day on the road for the past 12 years, 5 months, and 26 days, we have learned something new -- about ourselves, each other, our communities, our beautiful country, and how to make the everyday things we do just a little bit easier. It's just like any life, really, except ours moves around a bit more. Monday at this time, we were leaving a cute Air BnB above Blake's Tavern in Lil' Rhody and getting an Uber to go to the Providence airport. Today, we are back in our normal habitat, sitting outside of Hamlet along a beautiful lake in an off-grid campground in central North Carolina with thousands of birds chattering away in the distance. The city is a mere 7 miles up the road, but it feels like a world away.
When we give in-person seminars at RV shows in various cities across the country, we meet people who are trying to absorb as much as they can before they even take their first RV road trip. Before and after our sessions, we get bombarded with questions -- some directly pertaining to the seminar topic and some absolutely unrelated. We happily answer them all, no matter how trivial they seem because we know they are important to you.
Your questions and comments tell us that you have BIG dreams, and that you are also a bit WORRIED. You are EXCITED to explore, but FEARS of the unknown keep bubbling up, holding you back. These questions tell us that you've probably seen too many movies and watch too much TV news. Life outside of the crazy city and crowded suburbs is different; being out in nature is life's little secret -- people tend to get along, treat each other with respect, and take care of our wild places. Yes, there are a few idiots out there, but only a few.
As experiential educators for a collective 58 years, we know that life's most important teacher is simply experience itself. Nothing can replace simply doing it. Some folks are able to dive right into the deep end, but it may not be right for everyone. So, you follow some travelers on YouTube, you read up on RVing magazines, and you come to seminars like ours -- thank you very much by the way! Take your RV out on a short trip, maybe even just 20 miles from your home. Then, maybe go a bit further the next time. Later, take a 2-3 week regional trip, then, head across the country. Before you know it, you'll be writing to us from somewhere in Alaska in your solar powered joy wagon!
As experiential educators for a collective 58 years, we know that life's most important teacher is simply experience itself. Nothing can replace simply doing it. Some folks are able to dive right into the deep end, but it may not be right for everyone. So, you follow some travelers on YouTube, you read up on RVing magazines, and you come to seminars like ours -- thank you very much by the way! Take your RV out on a short trip, maybe even just 20 miles from your home. Then, maybe go a bit further the next time. Later, take a 2-3 week regional trip, then, head across the country. Before you know it, you'll be writing to us from somewhere in Alaska in your solar powered joy wagon!
We had a lot of backcountry camping and traveling experience before going full-time. After spending 1.5 years of nights and weekends bringing Hamlet back from a beat up hunting trailer to a cute little tiny house on wheels, it may surprise you to learn that we spent only 2 nights in Hamlet in our driveway before hitting the road. We drove half way across the country during our first week. There were some hilarious moments along the way, including when our homemade awning tarp collected enough water for a small swimming pool during an overnight thunderstorm. One snapped pole was all it cost us to learn that we needed to tweak our set up.
One month and day into our new life we totaled our truck, through no fault of our own. An impatient driver on the Trans-Canada Highway, eager to finish his shift at his carpet cleaning job, thought it prudent to pass 4 cars in the rain on a busy 2 lane highway, and nearly T-boned us on the driver's side as we were slowing down to make a left turn. That happened October 4, 2012, and is burned into our memories. Hutch hollering "Watch out!" and Shari's fast reaction at the wheel are probably the reasons we are able to write this to you today. But, that accident could have happened any where to anyone at any time.
We were rattled for sure, but no one was hurt, Hamlet wasn't even scratched, and the rest was replaceable. Many of our friends asked if we were planning to continue, if we were giving up and going home? Hell NO! We had planned and worked too hard for this dream to turn back at the first hiccup. But it did teach us some valuable lessons, and forced us to trust the wonderful community in North Bay, Ontario who overwhelmed us with generosity as we worked to purchase a new truck and get our life back together. It only took a total of 2 weeks, and a few grey hairs, to have us back on our way again.
A Few Words of Wisdom from Hamlet
Real life is the best teacher. Resourcefulness will get you everywhere.
Be prepared for everything, it will probably happen. Make plans, then stay flexible.
Find your happy place, and another. Mother Nature is the best therapist.
Trust strangers AND your gut. Explore beyond your comfort zone.
Keep learning...do as many new things each year as the age that you are.
We are forever grateful -- not only for their help, but in us learning to trust the strangers in a foreign country. And, our parents who both pitched in to help us locate a new truck in the United States and deal with all the paperwork involved with filing an insurance claim on the old one. Since then, we've had our fair share of truck engine breakdowns and occasional mishaps, but every single solitary time, someone came out of the woodwork to help us if we needed it.
Simply because we've figured out how to turn a tiny vintage camper into our solar powered home for the past dozen years, and have explore over 200K miles of this beautiful continent of ours for a fraction of what our previous "2 career, 1 home, 2 car" life used to cost, doesn't mean that we've got it all figured out. We're always learning, adapting, and making changes along the way.
Simply because we've figured out how to turn a tiny vintage camper into our solar powered home for the past dozen years, and have explore over 200K miles of this beautiful continent of ours for a fraction of what our previous "2 career, 1 home, 2 car" life used to cost, doesn't mean that we've got it all figured out. We're always learning, adapting, and making changes along the way.
Keep in mind as you are dreaming about your own life on the road...you'll never have it completely figured out, you'll never be completely "ready" to hit the road, and you will probably try to bring way too much stuff with you. None of that matters. What truly matters is that you follow your dream and give it a try. You only have one chance at this life...get out there and live it!
Oh, and that genius idea that Hutch was talking about, it was a new mattress cover bed heater for winter camping -- oh, what a game changer!
In Front of the Mic: Vintage Camper Trailers ONLINE "Boot Camp" -- March 1-2!
Sat, March 1 @ 7pm Eastern, "Solar 101 for Your Vintage Camper"
We'll see you on the road...
Sat, March 1 @ 7pm Eastern, "Solar 101 for Your Vintage Camper"
While we have finished our "in-person" RV Lifestyle Seminar tour for the winter season, we have 1 more ONLINE option for all you vintage enthusiasts diving into your own restoration, but don't know where to begin. VCT Boot Camp might be just the inspiration you need!
Meet experts from the around the country who will discuss everything from how to replace your vintage trailer axle, to the perfect vintage paint job, and much more about bringing these beauties from the past back to life. While the live broadcast is free, a small registration fee of $38.50 gets you access to all of the online content -- to watch and rewatch at your leisure.
App of the Month: How We Find Fun Trails!
In addition to using apps to find camping like The Dyrt PRO, we use apps to find beautiful trails near where we are traveling. Whether you are looking to hike, mountain bike, cross country ski, or simply walk the family pooch, All Trails is an incredibly helpful app that makes finding and navigating trails super easy, whether its right around the corner or near the the next stop on your road trip. There's a free version and pay version, depending on what features you need and want.
"Recipe" of the Month:
Parting Shot -- Shari in Volunteer Ranger Uniform during National Jr. Ranger Day!
Meet experts from the around the country who will discuss everything from how to replace your vintage trailer axle, to the perfect vintage paint job, and much more about bringing these beauties from the past back to life. While the live broadcast is free, a small registration fee of $38.50 gets you access to all of the online content -- to watch and rewatch at your leisure.
Use our link to register for this fun event!
RV Lifestyle Hacks & Tips: 10 Things Every Boondocker Needs to Have
Since 2012, we've boondocked all over North America in our tiny vintage camper trailer, testing our off-grid system to its absolute max. We’ve camped off-grid in every season and and every type of environment — from the deserts to the mountains to the coast. We've found these 10 things to be absolutely essential to our comfort and safety!
Since 2012, we've boondocked all over North America in our tiny vintage camper trailer, testing our off-grid system to its absolute max. We’ve camped off-grid in every season and and every type of environment — from the deserts to the mountains to the coast. We've found these 10 things to be absolutely essential to our comfort and safety!
Blog of the Month: Affordable & Accessible RV Wine Tours (You Can Design Yourself)
Even if you are not a wine enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with some of the big names among the grape growing regions in the U.S.. Names like Willamette Valley in Oregon and the world-famous Napa Valley in California. But you might be surprised to know that some of the best wine destinations aren’t even on the West Coast. They are, in fact, all over the country -- from the Southwest to the Smokies and up to the peninsulas of Michigan. There’s as much diversity in American wine as there are places to park your RV! Which means that no matter where you’re starting from, you have a ripe selection of RV wine tours from which to choose. Check out our recent article in RV Trader to begin planning a unique RV wine tour near you!
Even if you are not a wine enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with some of the big names among the grape growing regions in the U.S.. Names like Willamette Valley in Oregon and the world-famous Napa Valley in California. But you might be surprised to know that some of the best wine destinations aren’t even on the West Coast. They are, in fact, all over the country -- from the Southwest to the Smokies and up to the peninsulas of Michigan. There’s as much diversity in American wine as there are places to park your RV! Which means that no matter where you’re starting from, you have a ripe selection of RV wine tours from which to choose. Check out our recent article in RV Trader to begin planning a unique RV wine tour near you!
Video of the Month: AirSkirts Insulation Makes Winter RVing More Comfortable
Punxsutawney Phil was right! Winter isn't letting go anytime soon -- it's been a long and harsh one for many people around the country. After getting caught in 2 snowstorms and 1 massive ice storm (all in the southeast), we are more than ready to see some spring flowers pushing up! There are many things you can do to help make winter RVing a more fun and comfortable experience, but nothing is more simple and energy efficient than starting with insulating the space which is robbing the heat from your rig -- the underbelly! That constant cold air exchange under your rig is what makes your floor freezing cold, causes your pipes to freeze, and requires the use of large amounts of propane to heat your rig. So when the temperature drops below freezing, we have found that our AirSkirts make an immediate difference, in the floor temperature and our rig maintains its heat significantly longer. Check out our review video for details and get a $100 off a custom kit with our link and promo code CANLIFE.
Punxsutawney Phil was right! Winter isn't letting go anytime soon -- it's been a long and harsh one for many people around the country. After getting caught in 2 snowstorms and 1 massive ice storm (all in the southeast), we are more than ready to see some spring flowers pushing up! There are many things you can do to help make winter RVing a more fun and comfortable experience, but nothing is more simple and energy efficient than starting with insulating the space which is robbing the heat from your rig -- the underbelly! That constant cold air exchange under your rig is what makes your floor freezing cold, causes your pipes to freeze, and requires the use of large amounts of propane to heat your rig. So when the temperature drops below freezing, we have found that our AirSkirts make an immediate difference, in the floor temperature and our rig maintains its heat significantly longer. Check out our review video for details and get a $100 off a custom kit with our link and promo code CANLIFE.
In addition to using apps to find camping like The Dyrt PRO, we use apps to find beautiful trails near where we are traveling. Whether you are looking to hike, mountain bike, cross country ski, or simply walk the family pooch, All Trails is an incredibly helpful app that makes finding and navigating trails super easy, whether its right around the corner or near the the next stop on your road trip. There's a free version and pay version, depending on what features you need and want.
Creative Charcuterie to the Rescue!
This month's recipe is less of a prepared dish, and more of a creative idea. You know those days on the road when you finally get to where you are going, want to eat something healthy, but don't feel a bit like cooking anything? Charcuterie to the rescue! We take 10 minutes to pull out all of our jarred things (sundried tomatoes, olives, artichokes, pesto), slice some cheese and bread, grab hummus, carrots, apples, olive oil, and whatever savory spreads we happen to have. Within minutes, we have a platter full of tasty goodness that always feels fancy and pairs well with a bottle of wine. Light some candles, and waallaaah, a fancy dinner in minutes! Best part...clean up is a cinch.
Big News for RVers: Harvest Hosts* and Escapees RV Club are Combining Forces!
Two of our favorite membership clubs are combining their resources and working to make benefits even better for their members. Here are some things to look forward to:
Become an Advocate for America's National Parks!
If you've been following us on social media for awhile and/or recently joined us at one of our Tips and Tricks for Exploring America's National Parks seminars, you know just how passionate we are about our national treasures. If you have heard the rumblings about all of the changes and staff cut backs happening within the National Park System, and are feeling frustrated or helpless by the news...please read on.
Two of our favorite membership clubs are combining their resources and working to make benefits even better for their members. Here are some things to look forward to:
- Escapees RV Club - The Escapees RV Club name, membership, and benefits remain the same, but the website experience is getting a fresh new look.
- Expanded Campground Discounts – 3x more campgrounds offering exclusive savings!
- More Member Discounts – More ways to save on the road!
- New & Improved Member Dashboard – Easier navigation and better access to benefits!
- Escapees and Harvest Hosts memberships remain separate, but you’ll soon have the option to add Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome to your Escapees plan when the new website launches in early March!
*Save 20% of a NEW membership with our link and promo code CANLIFE20!
If you've been following us on social media for awhile and/or recently joined us at one of our Tips and Tricks for Exploring America's National Parks seminars, you know just how passionate we are about our national treasures. If you have heard the rumblings about all of the changes and staff cut backs happening within the National Park System, and are feeling frustrated or helpless by the news...please read on.
We are gravely concerned that these sweeping changes will have very negative consequences for our public land, the Park Rangers who watch after them, and those of us who absolutely love them! The National Park Service already operates on a 1 paid staff member to 20 volunteer ratio, continuously struggles to keep up with visitor numbers, and has an enormous backlog of maintenance projects. Bottomline...the NPS simply cannot afford more staffing cuts at this time!
Did you know? In 2023, 325 million park visitors spent an estimated $26.4 billion in local gateway regions while visiting National Park Service lands across the country. These expenditures supported a total of 415 thousand jobs, $19.4 billion in labor income, $32.0 billion in value added, and $55.6 billion in economic output in the national economy. (NPS Website)
Did you know? In 2023, 325 million park visitors spent an estimated $26.4 billion in local gateway regions while visiting National Park Service lands across the country. These expenditures supported a total of 415 thousand jobs, $19.4 billion in labor income, $32.0 billion in value added, and $55.6 billion in economic output in the national economy. (NPS Website)
It's up to ALL of us to STOP this chaos! Here are a few tangible ways to stay informed and become a part of the solution:
- Read: Read articles written by the National Parks Conservation Association, NPR, and USA Today.
- Connect: Join the Facebook group Alt National Park Service or on Instagram at Resistance Rangers and National Park Travelers to connect with others who are passionately speaking out about our public lands and keeping American's informed of recent changes.
- Protest: Participate in group protests happening at NPS sites across the country! These protests are also often announced on the social media groups listed above.
- Volunteer: Check out some of the great opportunities to give your time and skills to the NPS and other underfunded federal agencies. It's up to us to preserve these places for our grandchildren's grandchildren. WE own them, NOT our government!
- Advocate: Contact your U.S. Senators and U.S. Congress Members to advocate for your parks by expressing your thoughts and opinions about these current events.
- Share: Tell others about what's going on and provide tangible ways they can help out.
- Donate: If you have the financial means, please consider donating to the National Park Foundation and/or the National Park Conservation Association. These nonprofit organizations support national park programs and visitor services.
- Protect: If you visit a national park during this chaos, take extra special care, be extra patient with rangers and other visitors, pick up any trash, clean up after yourself at campgrounds, in restrooms, and simply Leave No Trace.
Parting Shot -- Shari in Volunteer Ranger Uniform during National Jr. Ranger Day!
Volunteering Your Time Pays WAY MORE Than You Might Think!
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