Why is Everyone Quitting RV Life? A SHOCKING Admission
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 10 ก.พ. 2025
- A Shocking admission about my 7 years of RV Life.
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Great video with a lot of reflections. We are in our second full-time year, and I know it won’t last forever. Still not bored, but we need to find the right location to settle in. Thank you for sharing! ❤
Well said, I totally agree!
Hello Carolyn,
I absolutely agree with you that we all tend to become bored and complacent with our everyday life. And we go through different phases and stages and levels of maturity and things that we once love to do become a little bit more challenging and less exciting.
That’s why SOME people buy homes, get married, start new careers, go to school again, travel, start crossing things off that bucket list, decide to start a family, volunteering and giving back, relocate to a different location open their own business for something NEW and starting the NEXT chapter of LIFE it’s very HEALTHY to do those mind stimulating parts of life you feel alive.
I also think it’s wonderful to have that sense of security of knowing you have someplace to retreat to and call home be it a piece of land you can park your RV and as you say start planting a garden maybe some fruit Trees would be phenomenal and build a small place for you and Sadie girl if you grow to like it there. I’m SURE you thought of this and contemplated on where, that just right elevation.
I really enjoyed this video, I’m sure you got a lot of people thinking.
Take care of yourself and Sadie along your adventures 🌲🍀🌻🐾
Can I ask you what type of internet do you use for your RV? We are looking at getting our own for our rv and don’t know where to get one just for our rv. Tired of using others Wi-Fi . Thanks for any help anyone can give us .
@@shannonyep3547 Carolyn’s video on Starlink should answer your question.
m.th-cam.com/video/XbDvSsWiU7Y/w-d-xo.html
Even after 30 years on the road I am not tired of the lifestyle. However, that doesn't mean I never get in a rut. Everyone finds their own way to live. Your honesty sets a wonderful example.
Ruts happen no matter your lifestyle👍 It's not about the lifestyle it's about the person.
Are you feeling greatful lately? You're so blessed❣ Roleplay...I'm Carolyn and I'm greatful for my health, my vibrant and giving personality, my intelligence for sure, my geekiness😂, SADIE GIRL, my Mom, all the people "out there" that care about me & Sadie, my business, my income, my rv that's still running and not leaking, my working frig, my curiosity, my abilty to take on difficult challenges like writing a book, cookbook, my businesses, therapy etc. My abilty to inspire others, be genuine and helpful. My pretty face and hair, my healthy eatting habits and my SOBRIETY cuz being clean keeps me alive. I'm greatful I woke up today and am here to take care of my beloved Sadie. I'm greatful that ...
Everyone gets in a rut no matter their living situation. I've been in a HUGE RUT for over a year but it's due to no physical energy/health problems.
@@csmoothsk8ter17 I know exactly what you mean about the rut because of no physical energy and health problems. I live with chronic fatigue and other symptoms/conditions that are chronic. I have so many ideas for so many things I want to do, if only I were able. I also agree that Carolyn is all of those wonderful things you’ve described. It’s true too that we can be grateful and still feel stuck in a rut. I wish us all health and happiness 💗 satisfaction, progress and inspiration and the ability to do, for us doers out there! 🤗
@@csmoothsk8ter17 What a great way to change ones perspective. I hope Carolyn gets it that her life is truely fulfilling and useful. Life just gets routine.
@@csmoothsk8ter17 A lifestyle that never changes can get boring for most of us.
I was on the road for 5 years and followed you for almost a year before I hit the road. We have shared a few campfires together at gatherings and I have always had great admiration for your honesty. I did love it but I get the boring theory and think you are spot on. I recently got off the road because of so many homeless newbies. I am in my 70’s so maybe I have grown less brave but It did not feel as safe, it did not feel the same in many ways, and it may sound silly, but I got tired of cleaning up after them and started losing some love for my fellow man. Landed in a good place and this spring I planted a garden. Wishing you all the best.
This is really the sad truth of things. These days are not the same & evil has found a way to invade that once 'little slice of heaven' people could find with living on the road. The freedom I'm sure it brought to many adventurous hearts just couldnt last forever; as is much of anything GOOD in this world. As soon as something great is being enjoyed someone(s) will want it for their own & refuse to consider others, which can definitely become a safety concern. Living that lifestyle presents more risks than necessary as someone gets older... esp if traveling solo. Since so much has changed it takes the fun out of it. Instead of adrenaline of excitement, it becomes adrenaline from dread & stress! Always thinking about who/what u may have to encounter, robs the joy.
Unfortunately there are sum who stay lost trying to let that dream go, or sadly don't have anything left to go back to. Kudos to u for not becoming trapped, u were apparently blessed to realize a change was necessary before it was too late. 👍🏼😊
Could I ask what the differences in expenses are between van life and so-called ‘sticks & bricks’?
I did summers in a hi-top conversion van with my girl as soon as she was potty trained till she was 11 and wanted to spend the summer with school friends…but that was back in the 80’s.
Thanks in advance, Linda
This could be a seasonal thing.. also has gas is expensive across the country..."! Wear and tear on your vehicle. Stress across the board...
@@coldfact. Like the Eagles said: "call something paradise kiss it goodbye!" If only people wold respect the landscape and the inhabitants of the landscape. What Carolyn said about selfishness resinates with me. I have seen it in my travels and it seems to be getting worse. I hate to blame anything on homelessness, but to be honest, all the broken down campers and trash that litter the towns and roads on the West Coast has an element of selfishness. People leaving their trash for others to clean up is so selfish. Many of these people ruin it or others who are respectful living the RV or Van life.
@@LindaM.DicksonMay22
I can only give an example from one couple, us.
We had a 40 acre property in south east Arizona. It was a small town that we moved from So. California to. It was cute, a totally new lifestyle, a great adventure for us with the main, 2 acre lot right in the middle of it safe with fencing protecting us from any of the critters that live around us with a 2400 sqft garage/shop for me, a 36x36 garden that couldn't walk through without watching our step, pet chickens along with the cats and dogs as well enjoying the space.... I loved it! So did she until one morning she woke up, walked to the living room where I was watching TV and informed me she wanted to sell. It was only 2 years after paying cash for that property. No mortgage. Only electric and propane periodically were our bills living off her disability as I was in a motorcycle accident leaving me damaged enough not being able to work with the disability taking all this time to not approve as of yet. I asked why she wanted to do so saying "We Just Bought It!". She told me
she was "bored". I couldn't argue the point. After all, moving from So Cal to a tiny ghost town of less than 2000 population and no place for me to do my Stand Up routine at an open mic kind of place within more than 100 miles from our location, I could relate. They say "people move there for one of two reasons... Running from the law or just looking for somewhere to waste away to die". It would be a long time for someone to find us in ether one of those examples too!
Now....
We took our profit on the sell of the property, making a decent profit, doubling our initial purchase price +. We bought a used 5th wheel and a near new pickup truck. Had to invest some into the trailer and pay for the living on the road as money tends to rapidly disappear doing so.
Back to the single disability and on the road/hanging out for my back surgery in a couple months and paying space rental now at a lower priced place/places but now.... RENT. Something we hadn't had with owning the property before. Now nearly half our monthly income pays for rent at these bare basic RV "parks", essentially a dirt lot with hookups.
Then comes the seemingly constant situations that arise with the trailer maintenance/repairs. The boredom of no longer having a professional shop to play with the vehicles I no longer own. To create the garden she was so proud of. The pets that are no longer with us. I miss what was there and have been wanting to say these things for quite a while for someone who is thinking of doing this little "adventure" that sounded like it was going to be so much fun. Then the winter months and now being what they call "Snowbirds". We have to go west for the winter months just to be comfortable. Last year we tried the Quartsite thing. It was pretty boring and much less than I ever expected. I thought it would be a bunch of us full timers, hanging out, "partying"/enjoying each other sort of thing as it always was when we had our "weekender" travel trailers sort of thing.
Sure, there's plenty of great people out here. Many, as I'm use to meeting with our same interests. Just good people to talk with and enjoy, for the most part only it's much different than it was like when we went to the beach for a week back in Cali.
We can't afford the things that others may be able to. Just the fuel is something that keeps us within so many miles of driving before it totally wipes our funds out. Money is our biggest situation. Not the same as most, I'm sure. Just another point I've been wanting to mention for those thinking about doing this....
So, if you own your home. If you have the comfort of the property. If you like where you live with people and friends around you. If you have a limited income. If you might miss what you have at your home.....
maybe I was of any slight information you are requesting here. I can only hope maybe I did and didn't just babble on, wasting your time.
I believe that every kind of life ends up becoming boring. No matter what. Whatever your life style... You can be a billionare, who lives traveling around the world, staying in the best hotels, eating the best foods... One day comes when nothing makes sense anymore 😢.
As an OTR with 20+ years out here, I can relate to the repeatitiveness. How many Walmarts in day do I see and scenic sights. One has to be on a spiritual mission as a goal. As I'm Christian, I prep for the Great Tribulation in Revelations and the immediate Marxist Democrat overthrow of our nation at hand. Includes alien the Middle-East terrorists, foreign dangerous mental patients released in here, drug cartel experienced killers, and Chinese troop combat aged men and the desperate for survival to take what you have. Sure your traveling dream has a stress element added onto it. I certainly would buy the self-sealing bullet proof vest and the helmet with goggles ( As Sleepy Joe would say, "I'm not kidding").
Im starting soon so im listening.
For me I move around alot . Always have always do.
I write i play guitar Im friendly and like to meet new people .
With the internet information is what i
ask. Its A Adventure
I will search and go.
Well I got a 2019 Mini Winnie Winnebago only as 15000 miles on it. I'm sixty seven years old, retired a couple of months ago and i'm leaving next month.
Honestly
, I'm looking forward to it. I'm gonna get old I have my health now You should know by now. Everything gets old. Telling you appreciate it that matters.u😊
Are there alot of singles on the road.
LMK WE CAN TALK
@@denisebranquinho2377 There is a another world in Christianity than the store box church on the corner sells. Earth is in the time frame of the largest event, not since this world began. We refresh our minds and accept the mission for what is coming. Our boredom is the wait also. However, we get the eternal reward. Like James Bond titled; The World Is Not Enough.
I want the universe and enjoy all HIS people. Sad to read your comment. Let the dead bury the dead?
You express great insight. Thanks!
@denisebranquinho2377 Love refreshes life eternal. Boredom should be short termed, not in a rut. The End Times are coming. Not since the beginning of this earth age will it be so fantastic. Who is bored? Who is without faith? Who has no fight in them? What side are you on? The enemy is building up.
I'm 4.5 yrs in my rv fulltime. The past 6mths I now feel completely comfortable with it. I realized it's just normal living. It is what you make it. But a big thing you didnt mention was health. I feel thankful every day that at 66, I have no health issues.
All the things you mention are true, but if I am tied to a house & a wacko neighbor moves in -you're stuck. I believe the things you mentioned I also experienced when I owned my home. It made me think of the saying. " whereever you go....there you are." You go through stages in life, and after 50+ you reassess. I knew I would downsize & not be able to afford my house when I retired & probably go into an apartment. I knew I would miss gardening, making home improvements. So I now modify my rv, redecorate it, and I carry hand pruners, a rake, garden gloves & clean up where I go. I'm looking into local garden clubs to help with spring & fall cleaning as I travel. I'm also looking to invest in a small vacation rental with my daughter so I can winter there, and she can rent it out when I travel. Of course I can't do this forever, but I ran into a couple who had the same rig as mine this week ( you don't see them often) and they were 86 & 91!!! So who knows how long this can last. Boredom and stagnation is not a matter of location... it is a matter of mindset.
What a wonderful idea doing spring cleaning along your travels, I'm turning 60 this year and am planning and building out my van to be full time, I've thought of things as well to do along the way like volunteering at senior homes or hospital. Good luck and safe travels ❤❤
I understand you are getting bored, but wouldn't it be more boring to be stuck in the same place/home for the rest of your life?
Brought my dream place over 30 years ago, & a couple of years after paying it off, a 24-hr casing crew (oil field) set up next to me, then an RV park (after removing all trees, including 100+ yr old oaks) across from me, & most recently, acres & acres of massive power lines directly behind me. Starting looking for a new paradise when the casing crew was moving in, but I guess either I’m spoiled or the whole world has gone to 💩, bc everywhere I go, I think, I’m so grateful that I don’t live there!
I now know how my my neighbors of 20 years felt when they said, “We’re tired the upkeep, tired of mowing, tried of paying property taxes… we’re tired.”.
Exactly what I was thinking and was going to say.
Awesomeness!
I’m a truck driver and I will tell you it is really gotten worse. People do not respect each other. They don’t even know what the word means.
respect for one another is the biggest problem the world faces IMO.
Hello there. Just wanting to say hi. Yes I agree, my husband is also a truck driver for almost 40 yrs. The stories he tells me are eye opening. You name it. Anyways keep safe out there. Take care.
Been thinking about Van life for a little while now....just traveling up and down and Arizona....have no real interest in going all over as I am not a huge traveling fan, nevermind the price of gas. Sheran is there a way to make this visible on a fixed income??
Probably a silly question, but worth asking in my mind anyways....
Anywho happy travels
@@davidschmidt270 David, you can do a search for Bob Wells...the guru of van/rv life. (read up on his backstory). He interviews SO many nomads that have fixed incomes. In many cases, $800 or less/month. The interviews and tours of the vans are very educational, truthful and eye-opening if you've never live the RV life before. Best of luck to you as you make your choices.
Hola, hello beautiful world God Almighty bless all ❤️🦋❤️not only their isn't Respect their isn't any Love !!!! God bless you thanks be safe and bless 🦋🌈🦋
Lone female, retired, Van Life with my dog. Once I built out the van and put 800 watts of solar on it, it started to be a grind. My day was spent looking for water or gas or a laundry mat. I did enjoy traveling with other people sometimes. I enjoyed driving to a new location, but to sit there for 2 weeks was not for me. I wanted to go/do something. I wanted to go to museums and national parks and art shows with someone else. I boondocked but was ready to move on in 3 or 4 days. I stealth-camped in cities. Van life is super isolating. No room for arts and crafts, no seeing friends every week, no close relationships. RV parks are expensive, gas was over $5/gallon. And more and more 'predatory elements' started popping up in van living. I felt less safe and more cautious of people. I bought a house and the van is parked in front. I have not taken a trip in over a year.
Thanks for sharing. I am in my 70s and I too, live alone. At my age, I still wish for adventure(s). So at times I have wished, I could sell my house, get out of debt, and go do the Nomad life, and find that adventure I so crave. So, I really appreciate all the comments about the reality of the Nomad life. However, at my age, I have felt as if my adventure days are numbered. Since the pandemic days, I have done a lot of praying and meditating about my situation. Heck, the Covid pandemic was nearly 4 yrs ago, now. Well, recently with my prayers and meditation, I have come to see my house as my new adventure. It is old, (probably as old as I am). And because I have come to see my house as my new challenge (my new adventure), I have a new bounce in my step lately. I am bound and determined to fix it up to the best of my ability, and after that, continue to live here or sell it. It is all very challenging on a fixed income with lots of debt, but it wouldn't be an adventure without adversity!!
In my 60's, had two motor homes, traveled the world - To me, the best life is to have a home (a home base) then just travel every couple months on 2 to 3 week trips. I've been doing this for three years now and it's a great BALANCE of enjoying all that life can offer. When I'm home I can do all kinds of non-travel things and then when I'm on a trip I can enjoy new adventures! It's a wonderful way to do retirement!
We do much the same, but being in Europe, there is a hell of a lot more regional variation in sites to see, and we sometimes do it by train when our destinations are mainly urban. I used to live in America, but frankly, US small towns and even cities seem too much the same. US nature, of course, is beautiful and variable.
This is basically what I do, have a home base in AZ and travel 2-6 months of the year to varous places.
1 Some benifits is I can travel lighter often just a backpack because I don’t have to bring my home along with me
2 can fly to very different places, I have what I need at home and select gear based on where I’m going
3 stability, have a mailing address, doctors, etc all setup. I’m not constantly trying to reinvent life.
Not to mention be around for family events.
I agree having a home base especially if you are freehold like myself it gives you a lot mire balance and options,and you enjoy getting away and also enjoy coming home.
@@spacelemur7955I agree, if you see one poor American town or city you've seen em all.
And Europe has that Old Architecture. Even if it hasn't been maintained in many years it still stands. You guys have pubs that have been open longer than we've been America lol
For what it is worth: I started following your channel in 2019 because I was new to RVing, and although married and a homeowner, I needed to save myself by going into nature. I did it by myself, he was never part of that. Your channel gave me strength to be brave, be alone as a female traveller. . Unexpectedly, I divorced in 2021 and then had a vision issue which resulted in my selling my RV. I totally understand needing a home base. I can only imagine the trips I took, although solo, without having a place to go that you own and that has no rules about how long you can be there, and how long a shower you can take. Thank you for the inspiration you gave me. I wish I could still be out there, but I am grateful I have a permanent home.
Happy you have a home. That's good. Terry sager
@glennbeadshaw727 IMO, you are assuming an awful lot.. she said that she unexpectedly divorced and, unless you know this lady, you are doing an injustice to her by your statement.
The reasons for her divorce are none of our business, of course, and she appears to be doing just fine on her own, so why the judgemental, negative comment?
@@Linnie1021 thank you for your comment. I didn't respond to the person. Your response said it all.
@@glennbeadshaw727 Nah. People can say what they want. I really dont give a shit
@@terrysager1091 You are very welcome!
“Been there, Done that.” I understand. I’m getting that way. Only been on the road about 5 years. Starting to think I am tired of having to shuffle stuff around just to use my shower, having to pack and unpack my art supplies every time I want to paint, struggling to bake sourdough bread because I don’t have enough fridge room to cold ferment, having to watch my water usage and tank tending. I’m 75, female, traveling alone. So much of my time is spent on basics that I could use pursuing the things that bring me joy. I’ve loved these past 5 years, and seen so many wonderful places, met a great bunch of people, but l’m about done.
We were full time over 3 years and loved it. Then a couple things happened - a dear friend with dementia needed care, and the social & political & climate upheavals blew up. We have been at our home base for 10 months now and are going back on the road for a 6 week trip. The best of both worlds for "us". Love to you all
And that is Perfect being able to have that ability and lifestyle. Have your sticks/bricks along with the RV with the freedom in life! Perfect!
= because you have a base and are a couple. Sharing a life is healthy.
We understand. After 25 years of camping/traveling - weekends to 5 months at a time,
working up to 60 hours per wee we have learned this - unless you have a high tolerance to “pain,” maintain a home base. We have friends who talk of selling everything and “going on the road.” We always tell them to “Start slow, set an anchor to return to. DON’T BURN YOUR BRIDGES!”
I agree, if they have the funds, get a small apartment then go camping. Always nice to be able to go “home” to your own shower and kitchen.
That has always been my philosophy... "DON'T BURN YOUR BRIDGES"... it has worked well.!!!!!
Agree but selling your home and moving into an RV isn't burning your bridges. One of the main reaaons my son and I went f/t RVing after I sold our home was to pick a new place to live. People generally just need to find their own formula that works for them.
Elections have consequences and the Homeland has never been more dangerous than it is now so unless you have some kind of deep underground bunker not a whole lot you can do and it's getting worse options are good but know this there are those who l o r d over us work against your ability to have options it's the way it is "I don't like it anymore than you". Cool hand luke.
What do you mean by burn you bridges?
I think the best option is to have a piece of land with a good shed, so you have a home base.
You can live in your RV on your piece of land, and then travel maybe 6 months if the year.
Too much of anything gets tedious after a while. And I think the impermanence of the lifestyle would start to make life feel a little aimless, ironically maybe a little pointless.
This is the difference I think, in Canada you cannot live in your RV on your own piece of land for very long, only to build what society deems a regular house. I have been saying for years this needs to change , most of us can't afford to build the acceptable house any longer. My extended family would love nothing better than a few acres and be able to put our rv/tiny houses on it. If your happy living this way why does it have to be anyones' business?! So far no luck.
Here in NY, even if you own a piece of land, you can only camp on it for three months out of the year. And the other nine months is way too cold and snowy.
@@debbietodd8547 It's like that in most of the US too. You'd think that with the housing shortage, especially in California, they'd allow people who buy acreage in a rural area to live in an RV provided they install a septic system, but no. Course that doesn't stop some people...
Very good video. I’ve been following you since the beginning. You inspired me to make changes that I wanted and needed but hadn’t seen anyone else do. I retired as a college professor, sold everything and hit the road living in my van. 2 yrs later I became a 48 state long haul truck driver while living in my truck on the road. It’s been 5 1/2 yrs in the truck. My sticks and bricks life was successful but monotonous and boring as to why I needed change. Adventure and sightseeing and all things new was the answer. The mastering of adventure and projects leading to boredom is so true. Not able to add to the places where I go is the downside. Conquering boredom is a life project. The fewer the people, the more repetitious, the deeper the memory, the more limitations and the more perfection of the repetition leads to boredom. Quick mastery also leads to boredom. The way I handle this is to become a top pro at something different while leaving my adventurous lifestyle the same. Challenging myself competitively at a high standard as a pro doing competitions gets rid of my boredom because I need to practice and master the challenge. It’s something to keep my brain busy since it doesn’t have muscle memory on the new thing.
I have divided my life into categories.
1. Things that stay the same and are fixed ( daily living),
2. work (income stream),
3. Things that don’t have to be fixed…lifestyle- either nomadic non fixed and changing with a small foot print not changing or altering my surroundings but able to go where ever I want or big fixed foot print (sticks and bricks ) able to alter and change surroundings but can’t go anywhere
4. New things to master or become a pro at doing. In my case it is photography.
Category 4 is what keeps me going because daily living, work and lifestyle are monotonous and repetitious. I dilute the old monotony with new monotony. Lol
Didn’t mean to be long winded. Usually I’m quiet but this topic is passionate to me. I’m so glad you brought it up. I get it.
Same
I've always liked the way Carolyn's videos make me put my thinking cap on. At least you only posted 1 long one. I did like 3 or 4 because my brain wouldn't stop😂😂😂😂
I *wish* we had a "sticks and bricks" to be bored about and deem too easy a life! It's no fun being unhoused, even technically! I wish I could get bored hiking and camping in a different beautiful spot every day! Sounds good! But I think I get it - you want a permanent home.
@@denisemayosky1955 Denise I know how you feel....really....I am trying to save up $$ to get a small spot of land to crash on...things are so expensive these days....I will live in a tent on my own small piece of land if I can only get the land.....
I did the vanlife in the 00's touring all the European racetracks in my sprinter with my 2 dogs and motorbike for a year, on top of this I lived away from home for many years while working around the world, I now live on a small holding in the Spanish countryside with more dogs growing olives and vegetables, I'm now 70 divorced and content, no more looking over your shoulder when leaving all your possessions in a carpark, I'm free to lay in or get up early, the silence of a traffic free environment and tranquility is mentally soothing !!!
What you say is true. I came in from living on the road (motor home-big slide out trailer-custom built step van. I lived in them all and more) but while in between rigs I got an apartment again and realized too, just what you are saying. I wanted more. I wanted security, a place of my own that was always there waiting for me when I came home from the road. I didn’t want to buy. I didn’t want to homestead. I just wanted a solid home base without being tied down to it necessarily either. So I rented while I got my next rig idea worked out. I got half way there. I bought a Ford 350 van and was looking to custom build a fiberglass trailer exactly how I wanted it and use both units together in their own way. But then I contracted cancer and suddenly I needed to be close to a medical support team. An was able to move into a "little cabin down by the deer corn field" (I like to say.) Next door to my sister who is a retired RN. My condition has put me in a wheel chair now. I could hardly get in and out of the van I had bought and customized. So I sold it. Now I’m content, this is me now. Things change, situations and people change. I cherish the days I had on the road. But I’m glad I’m home now, in my little cabin.
I hope you find healing....please look into all the natural cures for cancer....CHEMO kills faster than cancer does....I was in a wheel chair and bedridden a few years ago.....I now can run and play again...but fear that life coming back....I hated being so very sick...I thank GOD that I am somewhat better now.....
My heart goes out to you! My situation is similar, but the order reversed. I have always been adventurous and married someone similar - or so I thought. Truth be told, she wanted hotels and finery, and was not really interested in the outdoors other than scenic overlooks. So, I was never able to pursue my interests on and off the road. Then the wife departed, and the kids are grown with lives of their own, and I settled into the corporate grind. Then Myelodysplastic Syndrome hit, a rare form of bone marrow cancer with a high mortality rate, connected to my Marine Corps service during Desert Storm. Reality hit that this may be it and I may never get the chance to pursue my life of adventure. God lit a fire under my backside and let me know He wasn't finished with me yet. I started planning a rig, trips, etc. while I was bedridden and wheelchair bound, praying and trusting God more and more, and hoping for another chance. My own illness gave me much more empathy, and planning adventures kept my interests piqued. I became downright upbeat and optimistic to the point of inspiring medical staff and patients around me, even when flat on my back in a hospital bed. Then, by the grace of God a bone marrow stem cell match was found in the Netherlands bone marrow registry, and I am well down the road to normalcy. Several years from the start of all of this I'm out working on my rig almost every day with newfound energy, and I am looking forward to hitting the road "soon." I, too, am currently tied in close proximity to a medical facility, but that dependence is dwindling. My adventure is just beginning!
@@thomasbordelon4149 I often say at least we have our memories you take care
You are brave to admit the boredom. I live in a sticks and bricks, and I get bored too! I was bored with my job, so I retired to move on to the next stage of life. We all need a new challenge, a new reason to get out of bed in the morning. I hope you find a path to new adventure. Onward and upward!
Someone mentioned u always want what u don't have and that's my take from your boredom comments. I find that is so true as we all make our way through this very complicated life we live in. Every person's journey is different and we all need to do what makes us happy. A little boredom in life is part of existing on this planet
Happens to all of us. 😮
I retired at the beginning of the year, sold my condo and bought a 30' travel trailer and moved into a 55+ mobile home park beginning of April. So far I love it! This might be an idea for other RVers who are bored. I planted a garden and am enjoying to know my neighbors. I have a Dodge Caravan that I can take camping and for traveling. Hope this is helpful.
This is actually a good idea..if lot fees aren't too expensive.
I never had the desire. I like my cozy life of luxury and amenities. I like watching these camping videos in the comfort of my home. Life is great!
Same. The videos by CheapRVLiving and other nomads make me appreciate my home and safety. I live vicariously thru some videos with great videography/photography, but will never consider becoming a nomad if I can help it.
It's just glorified semi homelessness, and greatly over rated.
Life can be great living in a RV or home. I think it depends on the person and situation. Myself, I could not do RV living because I'm not much of a nature person. I could not even live in a home out in the country unless there were cities in a fairly close proximity. But others love country living.
@@jamesrecknor6752 semi homelessness? Bro, an RV is a home on wheels lol. Landless yes. No mortgage/rent(if paid for), utilities, HOA and property taxes. I spend $50 a week to live in mine. The average rent in Maryland for a 1br is $1,600 a month. I barely need to work at this point lol. Y'all can have that stationary overpriced lifestyle where you gotta work 60 hours a week and you're barely home. An RV can cost just as much as a regular home. So yes, it is glorious to live comfortably for close to nothing and get to live wherever and whenever you want. Most people can't afford one, that's another reason why it's glorified. This is not meant to disrespect you in any way. You can't say it's overrated if you've never tried it. Most people just don't understand.
@@deacon2796 Well said. Yes, the "semi-homeless" comment was rude and wrong. Even homeless people deserve dignity and respect. Instead, the privileged spit on them.
Over 8 and 1/2 years I've been on the road, yes I did get bored but then I realized is because I missed hands in the dirt, building something, using my creative energy and expressing it from all the beautiful things I saw on the road. So I bought the land and I plan on doing something beautiful for the nomads that want to stay somewhere just a little different than what we were used to.
That is awesome.
Debbie, it would be so much fun to follow you - - even a journal with a few pictures as you make your dream come true.
This seems like the best solution, and one that I have seen other longtime fulltimers venture into. They buy land, allowing them to build and nourish something, but they still (most of them) RV for part of the year.
I could not agree more than I do! Having somewhere to do exactly as you said here!
When we had our 40 acres prior to selling to go full time we also offered someplace to stop for how ever long anyone wanted with my shop/garage with tools to make repairs they may need to do. Then in the shop to repair/maintain any truck or toad. (Oil change. Repairs. etc). Then, if they wanted, wash everything. I'm anal about my stuff being clean and knew others are as well. I had a 'few' visitors during our time of ownership in SouthEast Az. It was always nice meeting people and helping them out.
If needed I was able to let them utilize electric, plenty of water and even dump. (most of them got a nice BBQ steak/chicken dinner while they were with us as well!)
Exactly. And I’d love to help !
I travel 1500 miles and was TIRED from driving around, over mountains and down highways . I saw some beautiful things, but find I like to LAND for 2-3 months.
This place I’m currently at, I arrived at a time that weeds were a problem. I picked baby weeds and shared stories with this old woman about life and interesting things . For weeks ! It was good to get out in the newness of the mornings and have a different kind of day . And knew it helped her out tremendously. 💕
You are 100% right. More adventures coming up for you because that’s you. Congrats for knowing that change is exciting in our lives and to know when it’s time. I’m 76 and didn’t start traveling until I was 70. As soon as I get home, enjoy my house again…it’s not long before I look at my suitcase and start thinking where I’m going next. Remember you are so young and so much is ahead.
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love , and peace all over the world . I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Frank Lange from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask
Pay no attention to Frank, the scammer who is replying to everyone over 70.
@@sunshine3914😂😂
Would have been funnier if you said Boston Massachusetts, Frank. They are known for baked beans there and you can’t have beans with out the Frank. Frank and beans.
Next time you go streaking through your apartment to jump in the shower remember this and think of me laughing and saying Hey! You dropped your Frank and beans. Let me know if you look down or behind you.
Your friend,
Rats
@@FrankLange-wz5bdOops. I forgot to tag you in my prior comment. Please scroll up and read it, Okay? Thanks.
Your Good Friend,
Honest Rats
In 2017 I bought a medieval apartment in a medieval village in Italy. The original idea was a family vacation house, but US properties where we'd all love to visit frequently were too expensive - I am an English instructor. So we looked further afield, North Africa, Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy. This apartment in Italy, 55 sq. meters [ 1 queen-size bedroom, 1 single bedroom, a soggiorno, entry, and bath], cost the price of a used car. Taxes are < than $200 per year, with water and together about the same. With no car and no temptations to shop, I live on max $150.00 per week. I have the same view out my windows every day, but they are extensive and glorious, with vineyards and olive trees, plus the hills of Umbria and the Tiber River in the distance. The best things about spending months in this village are the people - I know more people here than in my home city. Village life isn't adventurous per se, but it is fascinating - getting to know people, their families, their idiosyncrasies, their ailments, and sharing who I am with them. After seven years and probably 24 months in residence, I count this purchase as one of the best decisions of my life.
You are very wise, this is contentment.
Great comments, Carolyn! At 70, my husband and I are ready to convert an ambulance into our off grid home and travel, but I think we would also want an acre of land just to park sometimes! We want the best of both worlds.
An ambulance! Very fwd thinking. If anything happens, help has already arrived. 😄
I agree with what you're saying. At almost 80 I'm enjoying my yard, my raised bed garden and my swing on the porch, walking the little dead end street i live on. I feel safe, have great neighbors. We left our camper on an older mans farm, and we enjoyed it for several years but my husband had a serious illness and we sold it. It was great for our etage of life the, as midde age retirement couple. Now we enjoy short trips, eating out, church, family and friends. You reach an age where you don't have enough energy for that lifestyle. I know you're still young and working but I can sense you are needingvthat next chapter in your life,. Will be praying for you and I know youvwillmmake the right decision. Take care.
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love , and peace all over the world . I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Frank Lange from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask
I had so many challenges as a single parent with a baby, having left a violent husband. I rendered when my baby was 16. I have what many people think of is a boring life. And i love it. I can pursue my hobbies. I don't have to worry about anything except the cancer i be was diagnosed with. Life is good.
I'm not an RV'er or a nomad. I have been watching van life videos for over 5 years now, thinking one day I would like to travel too. But that has changed for me now. I agree with your assessment. People are moving on to buying their own land and homesteading. Their van life videos have now become their house building and homesteading videos. After a while, people get tired of digging holes to take a crap in the woods. I live in SW Florida. I'm retired. I live in a mobile home community. I have a garden that I started 3 years ago, and it has become my project. This fall, I would love to do some car/tent camping 8n Florida. There are some places I'd like to go explore here in my own home state. I think if you could settle down for 3 to 6 months in an RV park, you could easily grow a small garden in grow bags while you work from your RV. I also have 2 etsy shops. I'm a creative person. I love to garden, sew, and craft. I have to stay busy.
I'm in my mid 50's own my house and am getting tired of it. Bored. I've done a lot of rustic camping in my life and enjoy it. I'm at the point where I'm think of converting a less than full size bus and hitting the road. My skills are with my hands and know I need to work somewhat a regular job at least part of the year. What I'd like to do is travel around the country until I can find a little piece of land where I can live in my house on wheels , grow the garden, build a little workshop and spend the summer making money and growing my garden then hit the road 6-7 months out of the year boondocking and exploring. I've thought a lot about it and came to the realization that I'd probably enjoy full time for a couple years but would feel the need to put roots back down and build. It seems I'm not the only one who wants the grand adventure but eventually I want to go home wherever that may be.
I know exactly what you mean. I've been in a 5br house for 20+ years and work in an office. I built a van 5y ago that's a daily driver. Been out 2 weeks at a time to know what it feels like - and it feels great. Not into camp sites so I bought off-grd land I spend 4 consecutive nights a month. I keep moving stuff to it. It's both in the middle of nowhere and between my favorite places. Now working remote full time and close to retirement I think about nomad off grid life van all the time. It's hard to commit, downsize and run away for normal life. I worry mostly about it being too lonely and hot.
@@12vLife how much was the land $$$ ???
Land is still a very good deal around Sebring Florida.
I agree with you. Also add in as we age, health issues take over. Hard to heal in RV when you are really ill or had surgery.
You fight to stay warm and you fight to stay cool in this brutal heat wave. Heat index is 103 to 113 this past week.
We went stationary due to health, but still deal with most RV life issues.
Many I speak to have become more of introvert lifestyle bc people have become mean and rude. Etc
They are not introverts but they don’t want to be around people or big crowds or new people every week etc.
At least in a house or apartment you have more room to stay indoors for whatever reasons. Weather, health, work, watching baseball on the big screen tV etc.
add in pets or a few dogs and life is easier in a house with a yard and fence.
RV life is stressful even when things go right. It’s fun. But lots of work. Preventative maintenance all the time etc. all good when you are healthy……life changes in the blink of an eye !
I totally understand what you're talking about. I did it for a couple of years in the mid 70's, but didn't do it for adventure, I did it for survival. I was a tree planter who wasn't going to rent an apartment while I was out in the bush. And since I was out in the mountains, I wasn't going to be taking walks after work, I was going to be inside where the damn bugs couldn't get me! And I wasn't in a class A, B, or C, I was in an old 65 split window VW van, peeing in a jar and digging poop holes. When Vanning became all the rage a while ago, I knew it would time-out in due course. The ones I doff my cap to now, are the elderly who don't have a choice and are making the best of it, many with the guidance of Bob of Cheap RV Living. And then there's Glorious Life on Wheels...
First time I've seen you. Good honest talk, lady!
All the reasons you stated for leaving fulltime rv is how I felt in my house. Repairs, stuck at home, a$$hole neighbors, but you're stuck. I'm a homebody so I'm good and I do alot of different crafts. ❤ to you. You are awesome❣️ I am fulltime.
So true...
Being stuck with ahole neighbors is the #1 reason i stay with vanlife😅
@@limitedtime5471. At least in the van you can get in and drive away.😅
Ahole neighbors suck🤬 I have one now and I can't just move like I could in my rv. I was saving for a newer rv but now fixing the one I have so I can at least take off when I want...for now.
HI CAROLYN AND MISS SADIE
W O W NEVER THOUGHT YOU WOULD
SAY THIS ALWAYS SEEMED YOU
LOVED RVING ON THE ROAD
NEW ADVENTURE'S BUTIF THAT IS HOW YOU FEEL YOU HAVE TO DO
WHAT IS GOOD FOR SADIE AND YOU
IT WAS MY DREAM TO HAVE MY
AND MY FURBABY RV HOME IT IS
VERY COSTLY FOR ANY REPAIRS
BUT SO ARE STICKS AND BRICKS
THE GREAT THING IS FREEDOM
TO NOT BE STUCK ANYWHERE YOU
DON'T WANT TO BE AND ALWAYS
HAVING NEW ADVENTURE'S WE
LOVE IT THIS IS 4 YEARS NOW AND
WOULD NEVER TRADE IT FOR
ANYTHING IT IS CHALLENGING AND
STILL LEARNING IT HAS CHANGED
DRASTICALLY IN LAST FEW YEARS
LIKE YOU SAID SO MANY RUDE
MEAN PEOPLE OUT THERE NOW
BUT IT IS EVERYWHERE I AM LIKE YOU
I TRY TO BE KIND AND NICE BUT
ALOT OF TIMES THE MEAN RUDE
NO RESPECT MAKE ME LIKE THAT
I HAVE TO SAY NO DO NOT GIVE THEM
THAT RIGHT ANYWjAYS LOVE YOUR
VIDEOS AND MISS SADIE 🐕 🐾 🩷
I get it. It's like the saying goes about buying a house. You buy the house, you exert so much energy, time and money making the house exactly to your liking. When you've finally gotten the home to your exact liking, you're ready to sell it and move on to another project. It makes total sense Carolyn.
I am not a full time RVer but have thought about it. I had seen one person getting out of it recently and it was because of the lack of RV mechanic shops. It never occurred to me that the RV lifestyle would simply get boring. I think you have saved me from leaving my land behind. I can't imagine not being able to garden or build what I want. Thank you, and good luck!
Carolyn I have watched your videos several times in the past and do find your honesty refreshing and relatable.. I am out of the loop on camping and RV life since throat cancer changed my life and I no longer am able to speak, able to eat solid foods or smell, among other things.. so I now am spending most of my time at home and watching tons of TH-cam videos.. I must say I do feel like I can relate to you and your feelings.. thank you for being such a good person, I enjoy watching you and listening to your thoughts.. randy❤
🙏♥️🙏♥️🙏♥️
i wish you well randy, that cant be easy, sending many blessings..kaz
WOW! What a timely episode… I’ve only been on the road about 3 1/2 years and I’m not looking to give it up completely, but I was thinking about renting something for six months just to figure stuff out.
People have really ruined this experience for me. The whole me me me thing is so overwhelming this past year. Between people just being A-holes and finding trash everywhere I go, that in addition to everything being so much more crowded than it used to be. This just isn’t the awesome adventure I had hoped it would be.
Wonderful and insightful video! It’s always nice to not feel so alone in my frustrations 🤗
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love 💚 , and peace all over the world 🌏. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Gabriel Wood from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask?❤???
The trash thing is awful. Tahoe needs an army of volunteers to keep cleaning up.
We bought a 33 fr gas powered motorhome in 2005 and traveled for seven years. The frustration of finding an RV spot that lets an older RV stay more than one became tough. Then there is the cost of has doubling and insurance and maintenance! Was it boring? Only at times did we become bored. When this happened we moved to a different environment. What I missed was not having a shop to work on things and build things. When the real estate market crashed in south Florida we went and looked. We found a place and bought it for less than one third of its price the previous year. We have not regretted this move but we miss traveling. So we bought a van camper that we take treks in. Cheers!!!
I stopped rving in January after seven years. I was in my late 60’s & was tired of traveling. I bought a stationary fifth wheel with a lovely fenced in yard in a 55 + community. I started traveling in my 20’s in a VW camper van. I was hooked my first trip. I worked between trips to make enough money just so I could hit the road again. I never imagined losing that adventurous gypsy spirit. But I did. I used to crave constant change & adventure. Now I long for peace and quiet most of all. Also it got too expensive, too many people on the road, too many jerks. I started traveling solo in the 80’s when most people my age were buying homes, getting married & having children. I had the road mostly to myself; traveling was cheap….I was young…those years were the best. After selling my motor home, I wondered if I would miss the open road. And honestly there are times I do. If I could afford it, I’d buy a used camper van & travel when the spirit moves me. With gas being over 4 bucks a gallon, I can barely afford driving my economy car. I already did the homesteading thing in my late 30’s. Owned a cabin on 130 acres. Lived on Kauai, HI, for six years before the islands got so expensive. I’m 66 & feel I’ve packed many lifetimes into this one. Not sure how long I’ll stay put. But this works for now especially since everything is so expensive. Wishing you the best on the next part of your journey.
@skylar7171 so what will you do now if you have a medical emergency, or a long term medical issue?
You are fortunate to experience traveling so much early in your life.
great stuff :)
what will you do if you have one? that an odd question. @@gavnonadoroge3092
I'm only part way through your video where state all the things things you miss. Guess what, they are all things I want out of my life.
I live in Europe, in France to be precise. Sadly my wife has serious health issues which are terminal. When she has gone. I
Carolyn this was honest video .I’m a 70 year old man that lives by myself on a 11 acre homestead here in Missouri. I have it up for sell and heading back to California to live with my youngest son who we’re looking forward to. I have high blood pressure, sleep apnea, shingles, gout, and getting over Covid a week ago . My well broke down Friday. I’m too old to plant anything. I’ve doing good financially so I have other options like living on a live aboard at the harbor in Ventura or finding a place in assistance living . I do know I want to be by the ocean by Ventura where I’m from for a long time . Santa Maria, California was named after the family Ranch . Stay save .
It's funny how we each have our own path. We live in northwest Arkansas and are looking to buy land in Missouri. I hope you find someone that will appreciate your homestead!
May all blessings find ways to you for this ocean view ❤
I loved going to the beach in Ventura as a kid with my family! I’m a 4th generation Californian, now living in OR.
Where are you at in Missouri?. I have been looking for property in that state. I'm originally from southern Illinois along the banks of Mississippi river.
@forestraven I wish you success in your sale. I feel being around your son will feel so good that you will be able to relax; eat better to improve your gout; and feeel better so your shingles resolve. Shingles are awful. And being near the ocean, who doesn’t feel better by the ocean? Best wishes!
I have never RV'd, but follow many of you enviously on occasions. But one thing you mentioned I would terribly miss if I would be on the road permanently is my garden. I also enjoy the sense of being grounded, and the proximity to medical care. I have access to many family, friends, to community, and many other urban living benefits. I also volunteer, and would be limited to do while on the road. Best wishes to you wherever you are and go.
This September makes 8 years of full time, solo RV living for me. Not bored yet. 😊 Still appreciate the solitude and freedom. Thanks for sharing. Safe journey fellow nomad. ☮️
I think you hit the nail on the head. Whatever you do, it gets boring after a while. Even while hiking the Appalachian Trail, we thru-hikers got so used to beautiful, amazing views, we would tongue-in-cheek say to one another, "Oh, look, another amazing view." Change is the spice of life.
Thank you for this video and your honesty. As soon to be retired, I think at some point as we get older and break free from the daily grind, we all want to set out on an adventure. However, I can see the inner struggle that comes from on one hand not wanting to give up the roots we have established, the creature comforts, the friends, an d all the rest of the trappings that come from a full life of being settled: but the allure that we have missed things along the way. The fact that we want more out of life and quite frankly the fact that our mortality comes more into focus as we age. I believe our decision to RV travel a couple of months and home base a couple of months for a few years is what will suit us best. Not the option for everyone, but completely giving up the home base is not on our bucket list. Thanks again for sharing your experiences and RV lifestyle wisdom.
It has been great following your travels. You are full of courage. I'm old and in poor health, bored a lot as my Dr. wants me to stay away from the public because if I get Covid it will be the hospital and possibly worse. I'm grateful to sit on my porch, see the beautiful out of doors, explore Utube, listen to scriptures, pray, watch TV or a movie but I must say the greatest gift of my life is my posterity, their children and spouses. Family and God is where it is at.
The real journey is within. As Carolyn says it all becomes boring eventually. Enjoy your peaceful communion with spirit.
Carolyn, you are correct.
So many RV'ers and digital nomads lose their curiosity to explore and want to discover the details about an area they visit, living a mobile life. Many do not hike, backpack, or enjoy a hobby and the solitude of nature while lacking the desire to explore.
Many prefer to avoid driving from one destination to another and never learn to pace themselves, as many TH-camrs are buying land, which has become the newest fad.
We live on a planet with so much to see, learn, and discover to live and enjoy for a lifetime, one moment at a time.
I'm a full-time RV'er, and I just discovered Iowa's fascinating State Parks as I drive to Missouri to drop off my RV for warranty work. So, I'm off the road for two weeks and will be back on the Appalachian trails searching for wildlife to photograph.
Carolyn, you and the fur baby stay safe, healthy and continue to enjoy the journey. ✌🏾😊👨🏾🦲👍🏾👌🏾
Well said! So much to see, learn and explore on this planet and just take it one moment at a time, pace yourself. I needed this today. Thank you. 💜🌞
I believe you are right! I have a neighbor who explained it almost the same way you did. After a few laps around the country everything begins to feel the same. They were full time for maybe 5 years, wrote the book and bought a condo in Nashville, TN (to then exhaust cruising trips). There comes a time as we get older I think, when we can be happy and content just being. This might be a good time to widen a circle of friends or plant a garden.
I like keeping my world small. It's a must in order to live a quiet, peaceful life, drama free living, no matter what kind of home I live in.
Quality over Quantity.
Same here; small is good!
Hi Carolyn, I have never been an RVer and am the biggest homebody you’ve ever seen. I have my books and my dogs and my garden and pool and I never want to leave. I force myself once or twice a year to go on a bigger vacation. This year we went to Spain, Amsterdam and Belgium. And yet, I love watching your channel because it’s so opposite of me. I would love watching you do a homestead too.
But some land put a snall house on it.
If possible, code it for other drop in van lifers to stop in and stay for a bit.
Amsterdam...the netherlands, did you liked it? Pissing rain or was it sunny ?
Greetings from the netherlands
This is CRITICAL for me! THANK YOU!!!
Comments from your friends are very helpful also. I have been you-tubing for 3 years in planning for solo female as retirement.
NO NONE HAS MOSTED THAT I HAVE SEEN.
yes i subscribed.
I "get" where you are, Carolyn, at this point in your travels. I watched your videos when you first got started in the lifestyle. You, Bob and others inspired me to guy an RV and get on the road. I loved it! I caravanned with a girlfriend that I met at the RTR and WTR of 2019. I was 74. I had been taking care of my mother-in-law until she passed in late 2018. My friend and I travelled, camped and boondocked until the Covid lockdown when we went to her home in Minnesota. I had no home base. As soon as the lockdown ended, we got our RV's out of storage and got on the road again. We managed to travel through the Deep South where I had never been, seeing things I had never seen in person. Loved it! Then we ended up in Arizona staying on a girlfriend's property near the foothills of the Superstition Mountains. I don't know exactly why I decided to buy a home - there was no real forethought. So now, I am in my own home, sold my RV, and haven't looked back. It's odd how I didn't question my decision to buy a home. However, it was a good thing because, health problems started to appear. I had experienced exceptionally good health until them. I look back on the short time I lived full-time in my RV, and have no regrets except for the "wish" I had had more time to visit more places on the East Coast (having lived my whole life in the West).
About 7 years ago we retired, sold our house, and hit the road in an RV. We were on the road about 3 years but had to head back west about 3 or 4 times due to 2 close family members health issues and sometimes we were on the other side of the US. Wasn't in our plan but glad we could be there for them. Three things that bothered me was when snow birds left to go home to their primary homes towards spring/summer and we had no "home" to go back to do the same. Second, we missed our family and friends who we had a long history of living by and interacting with at the spur of the moment. Third, we met many wonderful people on the road and would begin friendships and never see them again. We hadn't planned if, when, or where we would ever buy another stick house. We were on the coast of Oregon to get away from the Arizona heat about 4 years ago and just happened to see a little stucco house about 600 steps up the hill from the Pacific Ocean. That was it. We bought it and still have our travel trailer, sold the RV, to continue to travel when the mood hits us. We had moved from many years in Nevada and family and friends are not too far away. My husband enjoys gardening and I enjoy walks on the beach as well as other activities we both enjoy in this area. We so enjoyed our time on the road and happy we did it. Everyone has to make choices which help them feel fulfilled. Life's too short to do otherwise. Kathleen
I'm a 2 years full-time vandweller. I am an urban city dweller in the North Bay Area. I wish I had done it sooner. In the future, I want to do a lot of traveling across the country. So far, I am happier than ever, and I don't miss working 12 hours a day, 6 to 7 days a week, and struggling to make end meet!
Move out of CA and buy a home. You're welcome to come to Charlotte, NC as long as you leave your politics be hind.
After nine years on the road I spent the past year and a half in one place, helping out my best friend with cancer. After he passed away I took charge of cleaning out his place. Despite having the luxury of plumbing and climate control, I was antsy to get back out in my natural habitat. I leave tomorrow. But part of me wonders how I'll view nomadic life now. Will I be bored? Perhaps part of what's bugging me is the lack of my friend. Will I make new friends? Will I have a best friend again? I'm a loner but... We'll see.
Thank you so much for sharing this part of your life
@@alchristensen8121 how has it been?
@@downnout9893 - I settled back into my nomad life rather quickly, confirming to me it's the way I want/need to live. It also helped with my grieving process.
I really like the ones where you talk about your feelings on a subject. You are a clear thinker and you organize your thoughts well. I think you are very right here but as a home owner (1.83 acres and several small buildings) I can tell you that this too gets old! I have been to every place within 100 miles several times and no longer take day trips. I sit and read most of everyday. Luckily I love reading or I would go crazy!
I read a lot too. It takes you to other places, other adventures.
Nailed it! After you've gone around the country a few times, seen the United States & Canada, visited everyone you know... you get tired of your own company and it's no longer a challenge! Started traveling the world for part of the year and getting ready to nest again. Have plants and a place i can host friends. Looking forward to taking my things out of my storage unit and using them 😀
I noticed that during Covid, many full time RVers got nervous about not being able to store food.... or grow food.... or that small towns did not want outsiders in their town, or they did not want outsiders buying up their supplies.
It was a strange time for all of us. And i noticed a big transition at that point for RV life.
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love 💚 , and peace all over the world 🌏. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Gabriel Wood from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask?❤???
@@mixedmediaartgirl300 What do you think is about to happen?
I think you are so spot on Carolyn!
My wife and I have been on the road for 5 years, but the past 3 years we have used a 6 month seasonal campsite as our home base in the town I work in. We love the space, the safety, some community, a little extra storage, & my wife gets to GARDEN! She says if it weren't for that seasonal site stability, she'd be over the mobile living life long ago.
Thanks!
Thank you for the super chat!!
I think the central challenge for most of us is to stay excited, passionate, and invested in our lives, regardless of our living conditions. As Yeats writes in Ulysses, " I cannot rest from travel, I must drink life to the lees.....how dull it is to rust unburnished , not to shine in use .... "
Everyone is different and every person had different wants and needs in life and sometimes those wants and needs change. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Tennyson wrote Ulysses
James Joyce wrote Ulysses
I watch your videos with awe! I love the adventures, but can see how the repetition of every day can get boring. Over 7 years, that's a long time. I don't know if planning to be a camp host for a summer could help you. You might be able to plant a small garden, do some maintenance be around people more. (Unless this isn't appealing 😂) There is also some work camps that might break up the monotony for you.
I live in an RV but it's stationary and I work full time. I can't say I know what it's like for you, but I do get it. I hope you can make adjustments to keep the spark for this lifestyle going.
Love your channel!!
Yes, even those with glamorous lifestyles can get bored and complain about traveling the world, e.g., rock stars, professional sports players, etc..
I lived 1 1/2 years in a van w 2 cats. I worried about where I was going to sleep at night. I worried about the cats getting away. I compromised and bought an old camp in the woods. I still do trips in my van and I still use all my VanLife skills yet it’s nice to have a home base. And, I Have a Garden…. which was very important for me.
how much $$$ was the camp ??? I am in desperate need of a home of my own even a shack on a little land or just land...
Wow I needed to listen to this. I'm retired, have been since August 2021 and was fortunate to find an affordable apartment that fits my budget. I love that it's turn key essentially because I can go traveling and not worry because it's not a home I own. But having said that despite it being affordable and I don't work I get bored and thought for many years I wanted to do the nomad life for the challenge of all the things you mentioned basically to keep me busy. I have gone on 5 to 13 day car camping trips going as far as 2500 miles. It's was fun and exciting trying it out doing it very minimal in a car camping on public land to avoid fees, making my own meals with a small camp stove. After coming back it's nice to have my apartment with running water etc . But my mind after sitting here in my apartment makes me want to be a nomad again. After hearing you it confirms what I logically know is we can get bored wherever we live no matter the dwelling if we don't find a hobby or something to keep us from boredom. Especially those of us who are doers. Nicely done totally agree. For now since my rent is so affordable and turnkey I will hang onto it and just go on my trips as I feel like. But I got to get a hobby because it can get real easy to just watch TV, TH-cam 😂 all day and think what am I doing???
I just absolutely love your honesty Carolyn. It is such a treat. I think if you could swing buying a piece of property somewhere while not selling the RV ( maybe living in it ), then you will have a sense of home - with a garden - and still have the RV for the odd trip, whenever wanderlust calls.
5 years on the road - I have never expected rv living to be my life, just the way that I live. I found new challenges that work well with RV life I got my ham radio license - I challenge myself to a higher fitness level, and I set photography goals so my life isn't all just about the RVG & travel, Sometimes I'm in a beautiful place, like Jasper National park, and I don't run myself ragged sightseeing - I like just being here, and that is good enough and I do my other things.
Thank you for talking through this very confusing topic. I'm constantly going back and forth about what my next step will be. I like my apartment very much but it's expensive and not sustainable for my retirement which is imminent. I've come to realize that I'm not as brave as you, and that's okay. I don't want to drive through desolate places on my own. I did that a few times when making cross country moves and it was scary. Yet I love traveling. It gets more confusing as we get older because there are then more limitations for most of us. And I like meeting new people so have to figure out how to socialize and travel at the same time. Thanks for creating a space for us to ponder these big life changes.
Just as in nature, there are seasons in the lives of human beings. Perhaps you're just entering a new season with new and different adventures.
We are only part-timers and I know myself well enough to know that this is all we will ever be, as far as RV-ing goes. As time goes by and the number of years we have left to enjoy things dwindles I really start to appreciate my little home and the joy each season brings. My maple tree turning colors in the fall, sitting by the fireplace in the winter and watching the snow fall outside, the perennials I've planted over the years popping up in the springtime, my gardens in the summer, the mama bears and cubs and does with their fawns----I know and love these few acres and all of this is a comfort to me.
Wishing peace to you and Sadie as you travel and as you ponder the next stages of your life. It will all work out the way it was meant to be.
You’ve articulated why I finally decided NOT to sell everything and hit the road. Ironically -and it’s such an irony!- I intuited that RVing is more LIMITED and circumscribed than having a genuine home base. With a home, you INVEST in a PLACE -- a locale, a block, a city or town, a congregation, a community. Doing this over time creates such a rich tapestry of meaning and belonging.
I’m staying out, and going out for travel. It’s the best of both worlds.
I think you're correct. I started Rv life in Jan 2016 because of you. I lost my wife and decided I need to take some time to understand myself. My dog Cricket and I moved out of my house and rented it out. We hit the road in a 1995 Georgie Boy Swinger class A. It was the most fun I had had in quite some time. I retired when my wife died so I didn't need to work. My hobby of being an artist became my career without any income. It was my love and I really didn't want it to become a business so I would paint pictures and give them away. Hence the name "Starving artist". How do you sell your own creation? I couldn't sell my dog much less a work of art. Creativity is too valuable to sell. It needs to be shared in love. So, in 2019 I had something tell me to find a base to work from. I sold my house and bought a park model RV and put it on a lot I found that was perfect. Beach property on Whidbey Island Washington, a piece of heaven. Then Covid hit. I think someone up above is watching over me. I am now looking for about 10 acres to build a tiny home community. Former RVers are going to Tiny Homes in my area. I plan to set it up like a condo system where you own your home and a lot in the park. But like I said, I think you estimate of the situation is correct.
This is a very timely subject for me. I’m 74, been on the road alone for 4 years and am beginning to feel less satisfied with the lifestyle lately. Sometimes I get frustrated that everything is a challenge. If I want to take a shower, I have to move the laundry hamper, the trash can, the pump sprayer and the 3 plastic bins out of the shower stall in order to get in it. And I have to turn on the water heater ahead of time, be sure I have sufficient water, and that my gray tank has the room for the shower water. I can’t take a nice long hot shower, but have to be conservative with my water usage. When finished, the stall must be wiped down to dry it so I can put everything back in. The reason I am so descriptive is because every common day to day thing I do requires an effort that sometimes just gets old. Every time I want to enjoy one of my interests it’s becoming a pain to me to just get set up to do it. I like to play piano. I have a keyboard, but I have to move it from its night time home in the kitchen to the couch. Then the power supply, pedal and earphones are stored under the table in a bin, plus the music stand is also under the table. I get it all hooked up, dig some music out of another bin piled between 4 others on the living area floor. I play a while, then have to put it all away again. The same goes for my art supplies, my sourdough bread making, my quilting, etc. In my home, I had dedicated areas for all that and it was easy to just get to and start doing what I wanted to do. I know a lot of us dreamed of a simpler life when getting on the road. What I have discovered is the normal day to day tasks take up so much of my day, that I have less time to pursue some of the things I like to do. Also, I no longer have the desire to see a bunch of new places. Kinda been there, done that. That’s not to say I haven’t loved these past 4 years. I have met some great folks along the road, seen some marvelous sights, and enjoyed some great boondocking in the Arizona desert. I just think I see an end to the travel coming in the future. And I would love to have a garden again.
Thanks for sharing I thought of doing this but as a senior md female alone I don’t think it’s safe but I really wanted to travel
Exactly! I’m single, late 50’s and have been considering the van lifestyle. Been following various channels and this channel is the first so far which discusses the boring aspect of it! Something to truly consider! Thank you so much.
Hope you found your place. Gardeningbis fun but hard work in your 70s chances are where you can afford to live..probally not condusive. I live in Texas for no because my duplex is only 600 a month. I hate the the weather my family is not closeand the rent goes up every year( but no improvements) if it goes up any more I wil have to live in my truck..oh well maybe I will be closer to death.
Yes, that's the same as being homeless in my opinion. Nothing is just easy. Just shows how smart our old homes already were!
I don't garden or tend to high maintenance yards.
...I won't work for free..
.and I'm tired of the cost of living continuing to outpace my Social Security.
So I work for a living at a professional practice and plan to work until my time on earth is done.
I don't want a "TRAVEL" lifestyle or an "RV"/Recreational lifestyle...I want a flexible working lifestyle. Stable/Steady work that I do on my own time and get paid very well for the end result...the quality of work...not only by the hour.
Chronologically, I'm approaching 70, but mentally and emotionally I'm approaching 30...Just beginning my quest for whole life...the perfect lifestyle for me. Fortunately, I have all that history to draw on. It's a wonderful time to be living every moment as the first moment toward the rest of my life!!
Thank you for your honesty! It’s videos like this (and the horrible water damage of used RVs in our budget) that helped us decide on buying land as a home base and traveling from there. Four years later, now the issue is state and county permits and regulations. Always something. Whether on the road full time or off grid homesteading, we’d still choose it over the city life we were living.
Thanks Carolyn for sharing the unappealing aspect of a nomad’s existence. I’m an adventurer too, and own a bad-ass van equipped for long excursions. I’ve often grown tired of the “sticks and bricks” life and wanted to sell it all to become a wanderer. However, hearing truths like yours just reaffirms that my 8 acres, shop, garden, access to everything (sorry to gloat) is exactly where I’m meant to be-the grass ONLY looks greener on the other side.
You should do both ... enjoy your land/home during the seasons .... take off and explore in your van. Best of both worlds.
Six years on the road, and I could not agree with you more, nailed it. Allow me to add the ridiculous increases from RV parks to repairs and of course fuel. Even boondocking, which is 90% of my camping it's more difficult to find spots, and privacy. Can't tell you how many times I've camped miles from the road desert or forest, and RV pulls up 30 feet from my rig, just ignorance.
@@RetireandGo I think you have the right idea, a Van would be the way to go, just keep it simple.
There's different etiquette in different places. Mainly, there's more pressure on the recreational areas. People see a TH-cam video and get the urge to see the great outdoors. All kinds of reasons someone might think that's a good idea (camping on top of you). Arguably, it puts less pressure on the wildlife in the vicinity and it gives everyone more places to explore without encountering humans away from camp. There will also be people gaming the camp sites, trying to pressure you to leave, and immediately making it impossible for anybody else to do what they did, by spreading out.
I know I've gone up on the river, planning on a particular favorite spot, but someone already beat me to it. I'd set up at a backup site, and sort of monitor the primo spot on my daily fishing excursions. When they'd start breaking camp, I'd prepare to swoop.
There's been so much more pressure as time went on, some of my favorite camp sites are now day-use only, and they used big boulders to block vehicular access. It's kind of sad. All it takes is one group to leave a big mess and the Forest $ervice has an excuse to lock it down.
@@branmichaluk445 ... or a teardrop trailer.
Well, now you know how the indigenous felt.
I decided to retire in August 2017 and travel the states living in a van that I had converted to a camper van. My main goal for this was to break out of the social moulds and to learn more about myself. Find out who I really was without the common lifestyle restraints. I always thought that I might do this for the rest of my life, or maybe I would end up as a homeless person on the street, but I have basically trusted things to work out the way they were going to and to be okay with it. I moved out of my van and bought a vintage RV a few years ago, and for about a year now, I have been camped on a close family member's property as a more or less permanent solution.
I left being on the road, not the RV life, for several reasons. Attitudes have changed towards full-time RVers and it's been a very negative downturn. Parks, public lands, and recreational sites are less hospitable. RV parks require scheduling weeks or even months ahead and their prices are astronomical. The weekenders, what I call those who have high dollar rigs and tons of toys that come out to public lands to play on weekends and holidays, have become almost hostile towards anyone that lives in their RV. Businesses, cities, municipalities, and even highway rest areas that once were open to allowing things like overnight parking have begun to close off that option. Traveling across country became much more difficult to find spots where you could simply stop and rest for the night. Full time RVers are most often mistakenly labeled as homeless people, even by park rangers and weekenders, which we know also has a very negative connotation which equates to unfair or unjust treatment at times.
I agree that boredom can be a problem, but I guess it depends on the reasons that a person chose this lifestyle to begin with. I chose to be alone, to live in solitude for years, that is what I wanted, so boredom wasn't something that I experienced as often. Others who may have thought that this life is full of excitement, and it can be, some good and some bad, might not appreciate the solitude as much as I did.
I had zero problem in an RV park living there. It’s a wonderful community that is clean and look out for each other.
Truck stops is the answer. Stop at Flying J, TA, & Petro. These 3 have lounges (where you can watch tv), laundromat, shower. Pilot & Love's are smaller & do not have all of these amenities. Open 24/7. Nobody will kick you out like Walmart. If you need a free shower, ask any trucker nicely, as a co-driver.
@@Vagabond_Etranger That is true, truck stops are actually one of my favorite places to overnight when on the road, but there are quite a few states where these types of truck stops don’t exist. I found that out the hard way.
Well said.
Couldn't agree more.
Wow, you are right.
I am quite surprised to hear that people get "bored".
I have been looking at different campers during the last week or so.
But, nobody told me what you have just told me.
It is a revelation that full-time RVers realize in time that they can not act/control things around them.
I am 71 and can understand when you are saying your world is getting smaller.
You made me think of my life.thank you very much!
I have been on the road 5.5 years now and I have to agree with you about being bored. I do miss being able to plant a tree or a bush and watch it mature. I went with my friend this past Dec to look at an off grid piece of raw ground. He bought the 40 acres and next year will probably settle down out on the homestead. I will probably purchase a home base with in a few more years as well and still travel😊
There are parks everywhere that are always looking for people to help with maintaining nature trails. Planting trees is one of the many tasks that are a wonderful way to get that green thumb bug satisfied. Just an fyi... peace!
I think being bored can happen to anyone. Doesn't matter if you are on the road or settled in a home. Boredom happens to the best of us but it's how u deal with it that can make or break u.
I can absolutely see the "been there, done that" aspect affecting RVers. I started following several channels during the pandemic, as a lot of people did, and I'm getting bored watching some of them for that same reason! Same thing different week! What keeps me coming back is that you start to care about the people and tune in just to see if all is the same with them! Many have gotten off the road, mostly to build homes, cabins etc. and I generally still follow most of them.
I absolutely love your show. I have learned so much from you. You have opened my mind to new ways of thinking. Listening to you explain life, society, politics, and other issues, you have helped me think about subjects in ways I have never thought of them before. I am also a trauma survivor and have overcome. I have also decided to live alone and left society and their bullshit standards and unrealistic expectations.Thank you, Carolyn. You have helped me see life in a new light. 😊
I agree 100%! I am currently on my 4th year full time RV living and am feeling like I am recently saying "What's next?". I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one. I truly do enjoy this lifestyle but like you said, it IS like a project and I surely have mastered it!
I’m dealing with sort of the same journey now Carolyn. I’m An RVer and went different places and worked and stayed in my RV and I would take day trips. Then I got cancer and had trouble RVing full-time, so after treatment I made friends with some campground owners in Montana. I could stay in their campground for a set rate, any time from April to October. But In 2019, they retired and sold their campground, which threw me into a tailspin. It’s a side effect from some of my cancer treatment, I’m not as adventurous as I was and I have a lot of anxiety about going to unknown places even if I really want to visit. So I was loving having a homebase and being able to take day trips or two or three day trips somewhere else, or even doing advance scouting. Thanks to them selling to Campground and Covid, I’ve been stuck in an apartment for three years, and I’m about done. I’m starting to toy with ideas for getting out and exploring again while dealing with my travel anxiety. Interesting combination, huh? So maybe the answer is something we all got into RVing for in the first place. A change of pace, a change of scenery, a change of life style. I changed back to the stick and brick, and now I think I’m ready to change back to RVing again, but it took a break to get me there. Also that urge to travel gets to gnawing at you again. But you’re right. Things and people change and I think most of us in this lifestyle are pretty adaptable so maybe you just need to trust your gut and possibly even take a break!
You know, I totally get where you're coming from. 10 years ago I bought my dream boat. Refurbishing it for the first 3 years was thrilling because I had a challenge and dreams to look forward to. I still love it, don't get me wrong, but it can also be the loneliest place in the world during the winter months. Getting away from the world also means getting away from restaurants and good food. It can feel like a prison. I've gotten into the habit of driving back into town just for a good meal and a little conversation with the waitress. I'm not leaving it any time soon, but I get ya! It does become your normal life with ups and downs.
I think you nailed it----most of us want something around our home that is our "own space"---to make a garden, put down roots, or whatever! I know I sure do!!
I can totally relate to your statement of my life has gotten to small. After living in my home with 13 acres here in Vermont for 22 years I sold it 2 years ago. I'm now "stuck" in a apartment building with 62 other dwellers as neighbors. I have been seriously considering trying out the RV life and looking at different types of RV's. What I truly miss is my land, playing in the dirt, the wildlife and my privacy. What I miss the most is it was my retreat from the rest of the world. At this point in my life it's a weird place to be. Owning land can be very therapeutic it was for me.
Move to Texas tons of land with house s in small town very cheap under $50,000 you could garden and do what ever ,
$50K? Maybe 20 years ago you could… even my 700 sf shack is valued at $197K. Do you know how much a water well cost? Texas property values have been rising like mad & property taxes have more than tripled in the last 7 years. It’s been over 100°F every day in Texas for over 45 days, & damn near impossible to find someone who knows wtf they’re doing to preform work on your house.
listen to ur heart kenneth. go back to the land. playing in the dirt is the most awesome thing i get to do. when i was working i used to say my garden was the reason i hadnt shot anybody yet lol. if it's above freezing and no precipitation it's spring and i belong outdoors. in the south i think it's easier to find a piece of land. my daughter has a few acres but yeah, we have neighbors. it's not quite the city and not quite the woods lol. u can always do some day tripping. i like to ride my motorcycle to surrounding states. i think about getting a very tiny camper ready van. and then i dont lol. or maybe something to sleep in that i can pull with the bike. really though if u want to be happy u have to do what makes ur heart sing. best wishes.
@@rosemaryus-ct6151 Hello Rosemary thank you for the kind words. I never owned a gun for the similar reasons lol. Working in education and social work all of my life my home and land was my sanctuary. I've been so disconnected with life since I'm not working the soil or my land these days. Apartment living is certainly not for me. I am working part time these days as a way of trying to stay connected. I've also been exploring the RV, van life also. Real estate ugh! I am keeping my eyes open but as we all know it's almost becoming unreachable. Fortunately, I am financially secure but whew do I want to buy land at today's prices. My heart says go explore and I'm working on making that leap. Thank you again for your words of encouragement.
@@kennethmaskell8522 i was a nurse for the Dept of Children and Families for 17 yrs. i miss working as an RN although i keep my license current. i live in a house in my daughter's backyard lol. it's a big backyard. i'm not happy unless i have dirt under my fingernails. a friend of mine recently bought land. i think maybe kentucky. land in the boonies is generally cheaper. do what u must to make ur heart sing. dont give up.
My mum traveled and lived in Africa. Towards the last decades she said. Daughter dirt is dirt people are people. It’s all the same in the end.
I am not gonna lie. I am pushing 71, recently widowed and just bought a 25ft Class C. Dreaming on long trips but not full time living. I am nervous about going out solo in case I cannot handle anything major that comes up. Getting my feet wet in RV parks until I really get to know my rig, then hopefully doing some boondocking. However, although I enjoy my own company, I worry about being lonely. My kids think I'm nuts. I think I'm nuts! I enjoy listening to you. Whatever you decide to do, keep us in the loop!
Loved your comment. There's nothing wrong with venturing out and taking things slow. Sounds like you have a good plan. Much success!!
I love to watch RV living videos..I’m fascinated with that type of living experience and all that one must go through to live it, the challenges and the reward of it all. I’ve never attempted it myself, and at my age, I certainly wouldn’t now. Everything you said resonated with me as a home owner, a recent widow, still with a mortgage..that no matter the type of walls surrounding us, we all get bored, yearn for other adventures, wonder what is next, feel stifled in our daily grind. I say if you need a change, make that change if possible. Life is short..enjoy it!
I understand. Thanks for your honesty. You brought up several points I had not thought of. I do enjoy sitting on my porch in the morning with my hot cup of tea and enjoying knowing "This is my land, My yard. This is MY home. I can plant a garden or do anything I want here because I'm not renting someone else's property. I enjoy my bird feeders, etc. I live near the ocean. Thank you. I've been contemplating going into great debt for a vehicle to travel in. But I could simply camp in my van close to home. :) I'm 80, so you have helped me to make up my mind. :) God Bless you. :)
You nailed it, I hate to admit similar feelings. At 80+ years, homesteading is not physically possible. The thought of moving into an apartment or house after all the adventures of the past six years is unthinkable- but eventually it’s a decision that will be made. Thanks for putting into words what I have been thinking. It’s clarified my thoughts about this.
Some homesteaders are willing to provide RV parking with utilities to supplement their income. That could be a very good solution to someone wanting a more permanent place to live without a huge overhead or up-front costs.
I've always wanted to do what you do, but it's just not safe anymore to venture out too far.
Totally agree with your thoughts on boredom, makes sense and you probably nailed it for others.
Good luck to you on your journeys.
I’ve rehabbed 5 houses and lived in them during the renovation. I now own a 5 bedroom outright and sleep in whatever bedroom I choose and it’s mine for the time being.
People have been more afraid since covid and it seems it has affected everyone’s moods. I long for a friendly open place, and I think it’s something we each create every day (or don’t)! Thank you Carolyn for sharing your truth. I have appreciated your videos over the years and still plan to get a van and go in the next few years! Maybe have some land for friends to come and live with me? We can be nomads and come together to help one another. At least that’s my dream. I think it’s hard to do anything alone all the time. Wishing you all the best in your life. Maybe see you in person on the road some day. 🙏 life is unlimited. ❤stay blessed!
I’ve been living in my van for six years. And everything you said is exactly on point. I go to new exotic places, and it looks like the other exotic places. It’s time for me to make a change. Thank you for this video.
I fully understand... Dr William Mount
This video resonated with me even though I’ve only been on the road for just over four years now. It has made me pause and do some real soul searching. It also makes me wish at times that I had someone along who could help with planning, driving etc as I near 74 years old and my knees need replacing. I did buy a small house and have been renting it out. Come December when my renters lease expires I will make a decision. I will never stop traveling completely but it would be nice to create a lapidary shop out of the garage for all the rocks I’ve collected along the way. Until then I continue to explore and seek out new adventures.
Boondocking is getting harder to find as places close due to the selfish yahoos leaving trash behind.
I own a home as well and have been thinking about becoming a part time van lifer. I like the idea of hitting the road for a few months and than going back home. I am retired as well. I have been giving some serious thought over the last year......I have even checked out some vans..
This makes sense to me. I am planning on my RV lifestyle, and I am in the research phase. I am a retired flight attendant, who took the early retirement offer after Covid 19. People asked me how I could leave such an exciting job, getting to see different countries and cities while getting paid. For me, it got old after 21 years of no gardens, pets, or stability. I couldn't take a dance class or pottery, or create a monthly poker party. I was always looking to the future month and future "where am I going to go next month" and I wasn't living in the present moment. I think for me I will always have a home base even if it's in an RV community.
I am in the planning phase too! Do you plan on traveling long term or specific spots? I plan on traveling all of 2025 to celebrate my 50th year of life! 😊
I am never bored no matter where I am. I read books and magazines. Never a dull moment.
This was an amazing, candid, and vulnerable video. You speak from the heart. It almost seems like your next chapter in life could be getting a small cottage somewhere, setting down roots, plant a garden, and then doing the RV life a couple months out of the year. Heck, sell the RV and get a teardrop instead.
I built my own home long ago and have been retired for a decade and i am never bored because I have hobbies inside and outside. Now and then I travel and that makes me love my home even more. I have absolutely never wanted to be an RVer no matter how much of a fad I think these you tubes advertise. Same with the tiny house movement that has people paying as much as for a regular house and I have to Wonder what people are thinking.
I agree. And about the tiny house thing. At first--they were actually economical--and I considered it myself. Once it became "a THING"....that went out the window. As you say, now they are over-priced...on par with a regular sized house. I now think a person would be crazy to pay those inflated prices for something not much bigger than a shed. The price of homes is normally based on price per square footage. They threw that rule out with tiny homes---and are acting like the tiny home is comparable to a big home. Once again--greed sets in.
People need to stop buying them at these new, ridiculously high prices. They are only feeding the problem. Let the market for them dry up--and see if sanity returns.
My thoughts exactly. My roots are set so deep in my home and land that I never tire of it. There is always so much to do and plenty of maintenance in a home to keep us busy. And no end to the hobbies that I can do right here. I do love going other places at times for a change of scenery and to experience the culture. but at the end of the trip I realize why I like home so much and find I can't wait to get back here. My home is where I find peace and contentment. I also find that when we do travel, we end up going to places that give us the same kind of vibe that our home does. LOL
Eager to get on the trend so they can say look at me too. Sadly they are not trendy just sad little follower and copycats.
We just started our RV journey last month. We are both very excited because this has been the plan for the last 20 years. Now we get to do it!
Thank you for bravely posting your honest thoughts. Reading the comments, I see you are not alone in this. I started watching channels like yours during lockdown because it helped me feel less "trapped." Lately I find myself less interested because it does start to feel repetitive. I can see how that would be even more true for those who are on the road. I'm sure you'll get inspired and take off on your next evolution.
Thanks for sharing!!
I completely understand when. Say that. You feeling bored I felt the same way but I had to finely give up do a health problem. But still enjoy seeing other people who out on the road. Thank so much for program and your very good advice! Very Best Wiishs to always Jame Young
Just purchased a House on Bankhead Lake which actually is an intercostal waterway stretching across the state of Alabama. We watch the Tugboats and barges they push throughout the day and night. We love it! Most of the properties are owned by large Corporations and leased lands are mostly what people get, but we searched for 5 year’s until this deeded property came available. I refused to improve property that a Corporation would eventually profit from. We have a boat house as well on the Big River and the House sits on an acre for my soon to be garden. Across the River has tens of thousands of land that provides Hunters the opportunity to use by way of Corporations allowing the State Conservation Department to Manage and oversee. I can’t tell you how many projects you can find to do living on this River! I love watching people in their boats to canoeing and kayaking with families. It’s heaven on earth! It’s never a dull moment here. We are an hour from a town or city and wouldn’t have it any other way. I worked 30 years in the City and dreamed of this being my retirement place. I’ve traveled a lot fly fishing in Montana and still own a home in Okeechobee, Florida, but this is my all time favorite spot. Sweet Home Alabama is where I want the good Lord to lead me to my Eternal Home!
Come to Alabama and find you some land on this River, you’ll never be bored again, I can promise you.
Wherever you decide hope you find it! Love your video.❤️
As a retired truck driver, I’m not really interested in being on the road all the time but I see where you’re going. I drove a truck for 24 years before I tried retired and I’ve taken to camping again. We put a trailer about 45 minutes away from our house in New England and we stay there three or four months at a time it’s close enough to our home so we can see our granddaughter. We spent five days a week at the Camp and come home to do laundry babysit the Young one and go back to the camp for another five days . We were three months this year. It’ll be four months next year. June to the end of September anyways that’s how we had it. Y’all be safe.
sounds perfect
I think you hit the hammer on the nail: boredom can easily be resolved by splitting your time between nature and yourself and loved ones. I'm not sure if Carolyn has that option, sadly.
I got bored with RVing 30 years ago and you summarized it very well. There's no one particular aspect except getting tired of being anywhere for more than a couple of days. Heat and humidity compounded the boredom exponentially. In addition, I'd ask myself, "why am I dragging a house behind me?"
For the most part, the people who seem to enjoy RVing the most are those who take a few weeks or months to tour around or those who like to go to the same place to be with friends for a couple of weeks. Then pack it up and go home until the next time.
I'm in a little bit different frame of mind now, in my mid 70's. I'm really tired of 55 years of working to keep and heat a house and mow the lawn and plow the driveway, but it seems that is normal. I just want to keep things very simple and very affordable. I want my rig to be small and economical. I would like to have the option of leaving a small appartment behind, and knowing where "home" is, and to be able to go where I want and when I want. To me, it boils down to, "there's no place like home🏡. "AND.... I don't want a house to drag around.
Edit. I'm a new liker and subscriber.....thank you.
Hi Carolyn, I'm a long time admirer, but seldom have commented for a few years. Here's me: I had been a full time RVer from 2013 to 2019. Not long after I started on the road I discovered your TH-cam channel and kept watching your posts. I wonder how right you are about fulltimers getting bored. I honestly don't think most fulltimers whom I met were that mentally challenged. It seemed to me most of the ones I knew left to set up house near family, grandkids and such. I quit because I couldn't afford to keep my old RV together -- too much expense for my retirement budget. I seldom made additional income as you did. However, I was not a constant boondocker like you. I occasionally spent a night or two boondocking but I was never as adventurous as you. After my tour around the lower 48 I started living in state or federally owned campgrounds, almost all of the time "volunteering" -- where I was given a campsite in return for working for 20 to 24 hours a week. This was okay for me because there are lots of places to do this, the Park Services and USACE. (Though you may have moral or political objections to these places, as many do. Even so...) I'd typically stay in one spot for a few months until I got bored with the job, or to stay through the winter in the southern states where campgrounds stay open all year.
When I first started listening to this video my first thought was you must be bored because you're not being as creative as you can be -- even though you have had a very creative life while on the road. It's obvious to me that you are super intelligent and a very creative person. That means you set your own challenges, work toward, then accomplish them. The smallness of your world could be a result of the awareness of your vulnerability in your RV home. When I'd leave my trailer for several days in a campground I felt it was pretty safe; there were neighbors and rangers -- not like being in the wilderness where your vulnerability is high risk. So your reluctance is completely credible, smart. Your discontent comes from, as you said, the challenges on the road just aren't as challenging as they had been. Your creativity now sounds like it's expanding toward creating a home space for yourself. It's completely understandable. I'd prophesy that you'll be able to set your home space, then enlarge your world from there.
Where ever you go and whatever you do, I'll still be looking out for you now and then on TH-cam. You've been a help, a muse, a counselor, and guide to many of us. As ever, I hope for your happiness and contentment.
I'm coming.up on 6 years (5 of which were full time) in my RV. I have followed you probably from close to your beginning (bought my RV in 2016, but didn't start full time until 2017). I've visited 40 states, 5 Canadian provinces, including PEI and Nova Scotia. Last year, I purchased a "park model" in a small, established RV park in rural Arizona and is now my new winter "home base" to set down some new roots......yes, I began to miss the "this is mine." Then, on a whim, this year, I decided to purchase a vehicle to tow behind me.....whole new learning curve, but I'm doing it (at the ripe young age of 71). With all that said, I find the word "bored" popping into my head more and more. Having the side vehicle has allowed me to explore certain areas in more depth, which has been awesome. But, this year, I'm just sort of wandering with no particular destination in mind and looking forward to when I can return to my "house" in Arizona, when Arizona is no longer sizzling! I don't want to give up my RV life completely, but the life is definitely evolving......I just need to remind myself that it is still an exciting life! Thank you, Carolyn, for all that you do for your subscribers! And, thank you for Sadie!
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love , and peace all over the world . I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Frank Lange from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask
Thank you for sharing the reality of full-time RVing. Over 35 years ago, my late husband and I decided to travel the country in an old 35' bus we converted to a motorhome. We set out with our 3 dogs and traveled everywhere. Not having enough money to go to RV parks and campgrounds every night, we would pull over just about anywhere scenic and stay for either one night or several weeks. That was definitely a different time - we'd never be able to do that any longer, unless we stayed on public lands like you have done. We never, ever stayed in shopping mall parking lots.
After several years of traveling, we also wanted to have a place of our own so we could concentrate on things we truly wanted to do. So we found our beautiful spot on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State and never looked back. Now that I'm by myself and one dog, I have a class B that I use to mainly go out photographing for the day or weekend. I enjoy it, but it's always great to return home.
Thank you for all the adventures you share with us. May you find a permanent home soon and enjoy it just as much!