UPDATE: I'VE LEARNED A LOT AFTER THREE YEARS ON THE ROAD. DON'T POINT THE BACK OF YOUR RIG INTO THE WIND, POINT YOUR NOSE INTO THE WIND. IT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE!!!
no brainer on that one. always point your nose into the wind, that is basic storm chasing 101, Park where nothing can blow at you is a second one , don't park under things that can fall on you and avoid high power lines.
Yeah Carolyn! You recognized your fear, sought out information from the community, addressed your fear, and enjoyed the beautiful views. That's what life is about!
I just love the way you embrace every challenge that comes your way! It's the only way to get through it, in my opinion. Your attitude and outlook on life is brilliant... thanks for sharing it with us all
When the wind picks up you sometimes get sandstorms. The wind will pick up sand and it will grind away at your rig. I have seen paint jobs and windshields pitted by the sand. If you are pointing your windshield at the wind you might want to put something over the windshield to protect the glass. What might work is a tarp or a blanket that you can fasten so it won't blow away. Thanks for sharing your good advice on how to keep from blowing over. I only added the sandstorm comment because I've been hit with a sandstorm in CA and it did a job on my windshield while driving.
Get yourself a piece of yarn and try to tie it to the FORD sign so it will blow towards the windshield or towards the drivers side or the passenger side or from blown away from the hood. A piece of yarn won't harm anything but it will let you know how the wind is blowing. You can even shine a flashlight on it in the dark and see the direction of the yarn at night.
Just imagine what strong windstorms in the desert in a Conestoga Wagon, on the trail, in the 1800s would have been like to experience... We could all learn much from the old pioneers working their ways out west and around the country... You did well Carolyn... :-) Keep Safe...
Wow Carolyn, Thank you for this video. I have 3 huge fears in my RV. Fire, flood and wind/tornadoes I have a 26 foot Travel Trailer and the wind really rocks it. I was recently in a state park by a river and had a knock on the door in the late evening from a park ranger that told me to get out of the park now or I would float away. In the 40 minutes it took me to get my rig hooked up, the water had gone from nothing to ankle deep and it ultimately got much deeper. While the rain at the park was lite, it was a typhoon miles away up river and all that water came my way. Of course I very much appreciated your videos on the washes in the desert. The only nice thing about the wind is it's great if you have a wind turbine on your RV. Lastly, I keep waiting for a video on your solar. Best wishes Carolyn.
I used to pick up hitch-hikers, preferably with lots of bags and a big dog. The additional weight would help keep the van on the road, If the wind is hitting the back of you RV, all you need to do if pack a lot of boyfriends in for extra weight Bla ha ha ha, Sorry, I couldn't resist. I am an artist and cartoonist and I really do see everything like a comic strip. People with no sense of humor don't like me much. LOL
Carolyn's RV Life about the wind most RVs have a large fuel tank in the back keep that thing full my RV has a 49 gallon fuel tank in the back of it when that thing it weighs about 500 pounds so engine in the front of the RV and a 500 pound fuel tank in the back that should help by adding weight down low on an RV like water tanks fuel tank all that stuff you are helping to make the center of gravity lower on the vehicle and less chance of it getting blown over in a windstorm
My water tank across the rear is 100 gal which would be 800 lbs if it was full. I would still head into the wind if possible though as everything on the roof is aimed to the rear. My windshield would take the brunt of it as it is like a bus. Putting an exterior windshield cover on would help protect the glass but I don't have one and being alone I would have a hard time getting it on or off. Using common sense and facing whatever comes your way is all you can do on the road. Hang in their Carolyn. There are more good days than bad days as you and I both know!
Carolyn's RV Life Hi Carolyn I am going through a big wind storm right now out in the New Mexico desert. I am up on a high mesa-like place which is even more exposed. Wind is supposed to be 30 mph with gusts to 50 mph but up here on this mini-mountain I bet it is gusting 55 to 60 mph. I think it is hitting me at an angle on the rear end and on one side. I cannot turn into the wind as you did because I am hooked up. This 36' bus-like moterhome is rocking and rolling and I don't like it either. Choice is get off this mountain top and drive down the road but decided to stay one more night as wind is supposed to subside tomorrow. Do not want to drive with so much wind. I am hearing crazy noises like inside my washer combo. I think it is the vent louvers, flapping. Sounds like stuff on my roof is coming loose. My dump bay door sounds like it is banging and other rumbling sounds which make me nervous. The whole rig is rocking side to side. Oh boy! Hope I don't get damage from all this wind. Going outside to see if I can close the dump bay door by putting the cord down through the hole in the bay floor. Maybe if I take the surge unit off, I can fit it in the hole. Life on the road!!!! Fun fun fun!!!
I just found your videos and still trying to watch all the older ones, but they have helped me plan for my next trip. I would feel more comfortable if I could travel with someone for a week or two, because I'm not the most mechanical sort, but your vidoes help me to understand some things on my RV. I still haven't tried the propone for the frig and stove, I might need to find someone local that can just be there, so I don't blow myself up. Thank you for your wonderful vidoes.
So glad you're safe now. I live in a house in the desert southwest, and that kind of day or night can keep you alert, that's for sure. Great job on protecting yourself and making this video.
When you are traveling you need a few extras. #1 a weather radio. Pay attention to the weather you need to know in advance what is down the line. #2 A drill if you plan on sitting it out you need a drill why ? For #3 #3 Auger you need to drill at least 3 anchor points you want to park where you will nose into the wind you also want to try to park where you are not going to suffer flood but not where you are in that tunnel. Your best bet is to get out of the zones where wind is going to cause you to blow over. Stake out points so you can judge the wind direction helps to know these things.
Hi C, you drive your RV on the road at 55 or more all the time. You'll be fine. Keep the hatches battened down and thanks for this wonderful view into your daily life...
I love your videos. I've been wanting to off grid for a while. it wasn't till my son who was terminally ill passed away , that I got the burning desire to just go. I had taken care of him for 29 years. one of these days I'll be able to do it. I started An ebay Store to start earning some extra money. I've been on disability since 1997. raising 4 kids alone since 1995. they are all out of the nest now. I was raised camping an fishing an I love the out doors . its not like Arkansas nothing but fields an tree lines on the farms. i was raised military so it's in my blood. finding myself at 52 years old. best wishes. . I hope I'm in an RV this time next year. keep up the good videos of your rv life. I want to go to the north east where our country began. in the fall when the colors of the trees change . its breath taking.
High winds are one of my biggest travel concerns so thank you for this video. My son's pickup was totaled after he parked next to a big box truck and it was blown over onto it. You just helped calm one of my fears and now I see the wind being manageable.
I really enjoy watching your videos. maybe someday ill be able to do what you do and take to the road. you seem to enjoy your life so much and have such a positive attitude, I really admire you. stay safe
I love the wind! Absolutely revel in wind storms. Living in soCal, the Santa Ana winds come every year, and since ANYTHING other than sunshine is rare here, any weather that breaks up the monotony of constant sunshine is welcome. See you in the next vid!
Got a kick out of this one. The wind. Last fall I spent about a week in Wyoming in similar conditions except horizontal sleet in addition to the wind - in a wall tent. I've been using one in remote areas for years and know how to set it up so it'll stay upright (faced obliquely to the prevailing winds and LOTs of well-staked guy lines) but even so it was tough sleeping. Lots of canvas flopping about. Being in wind like that is very fatiguing. I think many people who have not experienced high winds in the western states just have no idea what it's like. Several years ago I went to a favorite spot at about 6K feet on the west slope of the Bighorns. I got there too late to set up the tent and slept in the back of my 4-Runner. I woke up in the middle of the night to what sounded like a jet engine running just outside my rig. What it was was the wind rushing through the radiator of my vehicle. I had pointed it uphill right into the mass of air moving down the mountain as the temperature dropped. Just roaring. I've mentioned that to other people and they look at me like I'm nuts. Loved the storm moving across the landscape in the distance. I had a similar experience in the flats at the base of the Bighorns. Except with lighting flashing and dark rain falling. The Bighorns and foothills in the background. The clouds, rain, and lightning moving slowly across the landscape. Probably ten miles away. One of those times when time simply stops. An epiphany of sorts.
Doors and wind are a big consideration for me. Twice I've opened a truck door and had it ripped from my hands and bent back into the front fender. That's an expensive mistake. In 75 mph (120kph) winds I'm not able to hold onto the door. Holding a door at 55 mph is possible, but that's still a lot of force.
Carolyn, your videos are great, I enjoy them...Don't worry about the wind. Sailboarding, and kiteboarders search for and chase gale force winds all over the world. We use RVs in high winds without a problem. In the Columbia River Gorge we regularly see 50 mph, even gusts to 70 mph. Yes these winds we love to sail in will clear your picnic table, but never tip an RV. For comfort in high winds jack up all 4 corners of your RV using screw adjustable jack stands on the frame or auto leveler jacks. Your RV will rock on the springs in wind unless you have it resting on jacks on all 4 corners. Happy Travels
Yes, nose into the wind. Keep in mind that at frontal passage the wind will shift 90 deg. I sometimes park quartering in anticipation of that shift. Often, right at fropa the wind will fall calm, then within minutes rise from the new direction. Usually, after fropa the wind starts to diminish. For the cold front a week ago (the front that came to your area) the wind started from the SW, then turned to NW. The plot of predicted wind on Weather Underground shows the wind shift clearly. You were fortunate to be surrounded by sage and scrub; no loose sand and no people with loose chairs that can smash into you. I love the violence as well as the peace of the desert. And the purple mountains at sunset are a special treat! Glad you're enjoying the desert, Carolyn.
Wunderground is my GO TO for all my weather, you can see the entire country, radar, severe alerts, they have it all. Talked my sister out of driving toward a tornado she was about to encounter because Wunderground radar is so good! Best on the web!!! Great that you got thru it and Capone looks like "hey Mom, why the big deal?" Another great and instructive video!!!
Carolyn, I loved this video, although all of your videos are great, this was as though I was experiencing the wind with you. Thank you for your time and work in sharing your life. Take good care.
In 1969 I was living in a one bedroom cottage a half block off of Rt 90 and the Gulf of Mexico. In August Hurricane Camille came through and we were all sent to a hotel right on Rt 90!!! I was on the second floor balcony, overlooking the lobby, when the Gulf burst through doors and flooded the first floor.... Everyone jammed the stairs to go back upstairs. We could feel the building moving!!!! It was many many years before I could sit through an ordinary thunderstorm... BUT, even having gotten over that if I had been in Matilda, I would have been OUTTA there!!!!!!!!!
I live in a mobile home,when Hugo came up on land and the high winds I was terrified! The top of my trailer sound like it was gonna ripple off at any time. I did lose some roofing from my porch. Most storms in my area don't scare me, but that one did. Glad you're ok. Stay safe out there you have friends that love you. Hugs
Nice video! When you think about it, just driving down the road the RV goes through 60mph winds or 70 depending on the speed limit. So, they are made to withstand lots of sustained wind by definition. Really nice to think about if you're stuck in a wind storm- or tropical storm as we are here in Texas. 😊. Be blessed...
I heard you say the other day how nervous you were about the winds that were predicted so I am glad you made this video so I know you made it through ok. Makes sense to point nose in the wind. When I sit by the harbor where I live and watch each tethered sailboat, they will all be facing into the wind. If the wind changes, so will they. Path of least resistance. Nothing like the colors in the desert, they were beautiful and everything look refreshed. Thanks!!
What an exciting adventure. Figuring out how to still boon dock and coexist with that wind. I loved it!!!! One of the super cool advantages of the C class is how easily you CAN move it in an open space like that And those skies.... wow!!!!!!
BREATHTAKING VIEW! Nice shot of the Virga (rain that doesn't make it to the ground) too! Thanks for bringing some freedom, hope, and joy into my life and I'm sure the lives of many. YOU ROCK!
If it's not the wind, it's the cold. If it's not the cold it's the rain or the snow or the desert heat. I never have any of those problems, God must really got it in for you! Watching your bin blowing away was a hoot, best part of the video.
Carolyn, I enjoyed this and happy you did well, my first thought was hope it dies down by dark...You are amazing and to see you enjoying life is wonderful. I'm 75 and traveling with you...from home. Much love and safe travels. Pat
For AZ'S infamous dust storms, the dust is very very fine and will come right inside. For that, you'll want a NIOSH 95 face mask. I don't know if anyone has mentioned sage brush and tires...if you need to drive cross country, avoid running your tires directly over mature/old sage because it can break off close to the ground and puncture your tires.
I wish I knew where you were in this video...I was right there when you looked and stopped to give the clouds their do...the beauty is overwhelming isn't it!
Hi Carolyn, I sat this storm out in a 20 ft travel trailer at Lavic east of Barstow. They forecast 20 mph then later upgraded it to 70. Visibility went to a few hundred feet. I parked with my back to the wind so the truck engine wouldn't fill with sand. Put the corner jacks down plus the tongue jack. Kept the trailer connected to the truck. First storm in the desert, I'm new to camping. Love your videos. Charlie
We were used to 25 to 35 mile an hour gusts all the time in the Panhandle of Texas. Its really flat here and the wind blows most all the time. Be safe out there Doll. Love ya.
Carolyn, for most of my life I dreamed of doing what you are doing, but never could, and so I enjoy your videos tremendously, and love your strength, sparkle and generous personality. Thanks for letting us ride along!
Pointing your rig into the wind is #1 thing to do. If you also put a stabilizer jack in each corner you will get rid of most of the rocking if not all of it. I rv'ed the NM high desert for many years and never flipped.
Believe it or not, if you are carrying full tanks in the RV, your weight in back is approaching that of the front. Combined weight then becomes heavier than most travel trailers and fifth wheels. You are less likely to topple than they are. But you did it right. "Head into the wind". Good job kiddo! Keep it up.
Sailors have the "10mph Rule". Whatever a weather station anemometer reports, add 10mph to that when in open areas like marshland, open seas, and deserts(?).
Another great video! Thank you for sharing your life with us! I'm glad everything turned out ok! Safe travels my friend! :-) And such a beautiful view!
I recently stumbled upon your channel and have been viewing as many as possible. And have enjoyed every one I've seen thus far. A heart felt thank you for allowing us to be part of your amazing adventures. Your videos and story(yes, I read your blog) are truly outstanding. Thank you! :)
Good thing is you don't have falling trees to worry about. I always made a practice to place all my belongings inside and never leave "anything" out at night. just in case a fast exit needs to be made in the middle of the night. I don't know if it would make any difference to place a tarp under the hood and tie it down to the bumper to help keep the sand out of the motor compartment and may help keep some of the dust from getting inside.
Sometimes a ribbon or string tied to the top of the grill or to the hood latch/spring, so it blows up the hood will help let you know which way the wind is blowing and you can untie it when you start to drive.
A wise person once observed that experience is something that you don't get till just after you needed it. I tend to agree. Thanks, Carolyn for sharing your experience for the benefit of those of us (like me) who haven't had to deal with many of these situations before.
We own a 2012 wilderness trailer, we got 75 mile hour gusts our first year in MT and it moved our trailer diagonally 18 inches, I never prayed so hard.. I knew it was going to flip [scared me to death] it broke all the stabilizer jacks and blew off the lid to our water supply.. my husband ran out to fix it and got hit in the face with the board, 1/8 of an inch closer to the ear and it would have killed him, it knocked him senseless and scared the life out of me! Glad you stayed safe! Lynn
I have been through many windy days and nights. look for ankers that screw into the ground and a strap that hooks to your frame and rachet it down. These ankers are about 18 inches long.
i am fascinated by rv life, i have not seen one of these in the uk, usually its only caravans here, but i do like RV's, much more practical, i have seen motor vans in a similar shape, but much smasller than yours, i guess being a small island, RV's may not be seen as needed here, but i like them very much... i love the sound of the wind, but it has in the past ripped the roof off of the large out house, also took off the roof tiles and damaged my chimney, of my home, very costly repairs that was, so i do feel trepidation nowadays being a widow... your a brave girl Caroline
Hi Carolyn. In a relatively open area like that you can fashion and plant 2 or 3 "flags" which will help you judge your line up when re-parking your rig with the nose into the wind. Position the flagpoles about 20 feet from where you want the front of your rig to be and put them in a V shape with the point to windward. You'll be able to see the wind direction as you reposition your rig.
Thanks for sharing the information on wind storms and rigs. Glad you came out okay, and had no damage. I always watch and enjoy our videos, while I'm trying to get my stuff together to go on the road. You inspire and encourage so well! Be safe,
Sailors have known to put her nose to the wind for centuries. Also, red sky in morning, sailor's take warning. Red sky at night, sailor's delight. So that beautiful morning sky predicts more storms. Stay safe. Jon in BC, where we get wind gusts up to 100 km/h. Things fly off the balcony if not tied down ... or fly on. I received several seedling starter pots. Empty, of course.
All I could think of was the wizard of oz!!! Carolyn and Capone ,the new Dorothy and toto."There's no place like home". Always beautiful after a storm!!!
My wife and I had to replace a slide topper on our RV after a wind storm in January. I even have a video on my channel of an RV smashed in the same time frame in San Diego when we left the desert for a week. Be careful of what you choose for a wind break, the results may not be what you were expecting! The desert is windy much of the time, but turning into it is a perfect solution, after all, you drive 60 or 70, into the wind.
why don't you have someone mount the solar panels on the roof of your RV? so you don't have to mess with them much? or you can mount them on the side and make them to be able to tilt up toward the sky, then fold them back down when your drive. Just a thought.
I'm so glad you got such a great tip and that you were safe - that first windstorm was scary! Living in tornado alley here, I wish I could face my condo into the wind. lol That sky and those mountains - OMG Like a gorgeous painting!
We live in a mobile home and last week the wind really hit here and we a anchored really good and you could feel the walls move. kind of spooky. Man were the clouds so magnificent in all their splendor. It is so amazing how the desert has different sunsets depending on where you are located. Great video again. So glad that this storm was easier. Stay safe and happy trails. Love Joyce
Since your campsite had the metal sign, you might tie a piece of yarn or rope to it and let it act as a windsock to provide a visual of the wind direction. A piece off your side mirrors could help with that as well.
Being afraid of wind makes two us ... we drove in 60 mph gusts (in spite of many strong suggestions to my trucker husband to pull off and park ... men!) .. the wind was so strong it unraveled the awning (twice), blew off two light covers, and peeled off a fiberglass fender skirt (costing $400 to replace both) ... all because "somebody" had to prove a point ... UGH ... Rule #1, "don't drive in high winds!"
Oh my goodness, so beautiful, I know you hated to leave! Glad you and Capone rode out the wind with no problems, it was a bit scary but you did well, my friend!
Video/photography tip of the day......hang a canvas bag from the bottom center of the tripod and add anything heavy, like rocks or canned food, to weight down and offer stability. Tripod won't blow over. Carry 4 ground augers and cargo straps. Anchors and straps attach to frame of RV for additional stability in heavy winds.
Thanks for this advice. I’ve been rocked to sleep many times in my motorhome but never once considered which way it was pointed. It sure makes sense...
Thanks Carolyn. Been wondering what it is going be like in the wind when we go full time. Thanks for the info! AND WOW! The scenery is spectacular!!! Like a painting!!
Hi Carolyn, I noticed you put your solar panels on the ground. I've installed them as window awnings with temporary hardware and take them off when driving. I have two permanent on the roof and two temp as awnings. they block the sun from the windows and are angled to capture max sunlight. Also you might want to vacuum or change your air filter in that wind.
Beautiful scenery! A Totally worth all that wind. Thanks so much for sharing your travels and trials. Hoping to join you out there in the wild soon in my own class c! Keep being the incredible woman you are!!
Thank you for sharing some important information - I love your down to earth presentation, it is "conversational" and not directive if it was, more hurt feelings from some hhahaha. Some have mentioned to cover your windshield, I would say if you do maybe some kind of canvas tarp or better yet, maybe a thin foam pad like for back-packing this way it is dual use and not just extra weight to haul around, I would reinforce the corners and use bungee cords fastened side to side and routed through the cab so that the foam isn't interfering with the door. A small air compressor would be nice to blow out dust in the air filter and might have additional uses - air tires up at any time. Some folks forget that you just can't buy anything you want or have heavy items because everything adds weight and diminishes your MPG. You are doing as my Father taught me: "Improvise, Adapt and Overcome!"
UPDATE: I'VE LEARNED A LOT AFTER THREE YEARS ON THE ROAD. DON'T POINT THE BACK OF YOUR RIG INTO THE WIND, POINT YOUR NOSE INTO THE WIND. IT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE!!!
Carolyn's RV Life thank you!
no brainer on that one. always point your nose into the wind, that is basic storm chasing 101, Park where nothing can blow at you is a second one , don't park under things that can fall on you and avoid high power lines.
Yeah Carolyn! You recognized your fear, sought out information from the community, addressed your fear, and enjoyed the beautiful views. That's what life is about!
When i was watching this, I was just imagining how difficult the early settlers must have had it when they were traveling in covered wagons
You were imagining early settlers in covered wagons.....lol
I just love the way you embrace every challenge that comes your way! It's the only way to get through it, in my opinion. Your attitude and outlook on life is brilliant... thanks for sharing it with us all
Thank you very much Tray!! It's all part of the adventure and it's what keeps life interesting !IMHO!
I was in a storm one time. They said there was 90 mile/hr straight winds. My motor home was rocking and I was on the floor praying.
Lucy, holy cow.. I bet you were. That sounds terrifying. Glad you made it through!
When the wind picks up you sometimes get sandstorms. The wind will pick up sand and it will grind away at your rig. I have seen paint jobs and windshields pitted by the sand. If you are pointing your windshield at the wind you might want to put something over the windshield to protect the glass. What might work is a tarp or a blanket that you can fasten so it won't blow away. Thanks for sharing your good advice on how to keep from blowing over. I only added the sandstorm comment because I've been hit with a sandstorm in CA and it did a job on my windshield while driving.
Richard, that happened to me, too. Driving in the Mohave in a windstorm cost me a new windshield! 60 mph sand blowing is like.....well, sandpaper.
Get yourself a piece of yarn and try to tie it to the FORD sign so it will blow towards the windshield or towards the drivers side or the passenger side or from blown away from the hood. A piece of yarn won't harm anything but it will let you know how the wind is blowing. You can even shine a flashlight on it in the dark and see the direction of the yarn at night.
Just imagine what strong windstorms in the desert in a Conestoga Wagon, on the trail, in the 1800s would have been like to experience...
We could all learn much from the old pioneers working their ways out west and around the country... You did well Carolyn... :-) Keep Safe...
Wow Carolyn, Thank you for this video. I have 3 huge fears in my RV. Fire, flood and wind/tornadoes I have a 26 foot Travel Trailer and the wind really rocks it. I was recently in a state park by a river and had a knock on the door in the late evening from a park ranger that told me to get out of the park now or I would float away. In the 40 minutes it took me to get my rig hooked up, the water had gone from nothing to ankle deep and it ultimately got much deeper. While the rain at the park was lite, it was a typhoon miles away up river and all that water came my way. Of course I very much appreciated your videos on the washes in the desert. The only nice thing about the wind is it's great if you have a wind turbine on your RV. Lastly, I keep waiting for a video on your solar. Best wishes Carolyn.
Stunning views! The colors of nature are amazing. Will have to use the sky/cloud colors for my next yarn dying binge!!
Ooohhh! The colors of that sky! Wow!!! Love it! Looks kinda like a Bob Ross painting. :)
I used to pick up hitch-hikers, preferably with lots of bags and a big dog. The additional weight would help keep the van on the road, If the wind is hitting the back of you RV, all you need to do if pack a lot of boyfriends in for extra weight Bla ha ha ha, Sorry, I couldn't resist. I am an artist and cartoonist and I really do see everything like a comic strip. People with no sense of humor don't like me much. LOL
ha ha.. I totally get it.. i see everything as a story or a headline! lol
yeah.. that joke about boyfriends.. too heavy for me man! :-p
Carolyn's RV Life about the wind most RVs have a large fuel tank in the back keep that thing full my RV has a 49 gallon fuel tank in the back of it when that thing it weighs about 500 pounds so engine in the front of the RV and a 500 pound fuel tank in the back that should help by adding weight down low on an RV like water tanks fuel tank all that stuff you are helping to make the center of gravity lower on the vehicle and less chance of it getting blown over in a windstorm
My water tank across the rear is 100 gal which would be 800 lbs if it was full. I would still head into the wind if possible though as everything on the roof is aimed to the rear. My windshield would take the brunt of it as it is like a bus. Putting an exterior windshield cover on would help protect the glass but I don't have one and being alone I would have a hard time getting it on or off.
Using common sense and facing whatever comes your way is all you can do on the road.
Hang in their Carolyn. There are more good days than bad days as you and I both know!
Carolyn,
This was such a great video and I now never miss one episode on your channel. Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you Bob and I appreciate you being a loyal watcher!!
Bob Ayrsman - You are right. 😀 Every video is a treat. They keep me going and make my day!
Carolyn's RV Life Hi Carolyn
I am going through a big wind storm right now out in the New Mexico desert. I am up on a high mesa-like place which is even more exposed.
Wind is supposed to be 30 mph with gusts to 50 mph but up here on this mini-mountain I bet it is gusting 55 to 60 mph. I think it is hitting me at an angle on the rear end and on one side. I cannot turn into the wind as you did because I am hooked up.
This 36' bus-like moterhome is rocking and rolling and I don't like it either. Choice is get off this mountain top and drive down the road but decided to stay one more night as wind is supposed to subside tomorrow. Do not want to drive with so much wind.
I am hearing crazy noises like inside my washer combo. I think it is the vent louvers, flapping. Sounds like stuff on my roof is coming loose. My dump bay door sounds like it is banging and other rumbling sounds which make me nervous. The whole rig is rocking side to side. Oh boy! Hope I don't get damage from all this wind. Going outside to see if I can close the dump bay door by putting the cord down through the hole in the bay floor. Maybe if I take the surge unit off, I can fit it in the hole. Life on the road!!!! Fun fun fun!!!
I just found your videos and still trying to watch all the older ones, but they have helped me plan for my next trip. I would feel more comfortable if I could travel with someone for a week or two, because I'm not the most mechanical sort, but your vidoes help me to understand some things on my RV. I still haven't tried the propone for the frig and stove, I might need to find someone local that can just be there, so I don't blow myself up. Thank you for your wonderful vidoes.
Wow that sky looks like a painting! Thank you for sharing! ;-)
So glad you're safe now. I live in a house in the desert southwest, and that kind of day or night can keep you alert, that's for sure. Great job on protecting yourself and making this video.
When you are traveling you need a few extras.
#1 a weather radio. Pay attention to the weather you need to know in advance what is down the line.
#2 A drill if you plan on sitting it out you need a drill why ? For #3
#3 Auger you need to drill at least 3 anchor points you want to park where you will nose into the wind you also want to try to park where you are not going to suffer flood but not where you are in that tunnel.
Your best bet is to get out of the zones where wind is going to cause you to blow over. Stake out points so you can judge the wind direction helps to know these things.
Hi C, you drive your RV on the road at 55 or more all the time. You'll be fine. Keep the hatches battened down and thanks for this wonderful view into your daily life...
I love your videos. I've been wanting to off grid
for a while. it wasn't till my son who was terminally ill passed away , that I got the burning desire to just go. I had taken care of him for 29 years. one of these days I'll be able to do it. I started An ebay Store to start earning some extra money. I've been on disability since 1997. raising 4 kids alone since 1995. they are all out of the nest now. I was raised camping an fishing an I love the out doors . its not like Arkansas nothing but fields an tree lines on the farms. i was raised military so it's in my blood. finding myself at 52 years old. best wishes. . I hope I'm in an RV this time next year. keep up the good videos of your rv life. I want to go to the north east where our country began. in the fall when the colors of the trees change . its breath taking.
High winds are one of my biggest travel concerns so thank you for this video. My son's pickup was totaled after he parked next to a big box truck and it was blown over onto it. You just helped calm one of my fears and now I see the wind being manageable.
"14 mile an hour winds my ass!" -- I am laughing so hard! As always, thanks for sharing.
:-) I love it when people enjoy my raw and uncensored personality. thank you
I really enjoy watching your videos. maybe someday ill be able to do what you do and take to the road. you seem to enjoy your life so much and have such a positive attitude, I really admire you. stay safe
When you said "14 MPH wind, my ass!", I could only think "That's a good 40 MPH (67kph), if not more!" Glad you're safe.
no winds your standing in right now....lucky !its beautiful...their ...where is the location with the beautiful blue water....happy times...
😂❤️
I love the wind! Absolutely revel in wind storms. Living in soCal, the Santa Ana winds come every year, and since ANYTHING other than sunshine is rare here, any weather that breaks up the monotony of constant sunshine is welcome. See you in the next vid!
Got a kick out of this one. The wind. Last fall I spent about a week in Wyoming in similar conditions except horizontal sleet in addition to the wind - in a wall tent. I've been using one in remote areas for years and know how to set it up so it'll stay upright (faced obliquely to the prevailing winds and LOTs of well-staked guy lines) but even so it was tough sleeping. Lots of canvas flopping about. Being in wind like that is very fatiguing.
I think many people who have not experienced high winds in the western states just have no idea what it's like. Several years ago I went to a favorite spot at about 6K feet on the west slope of the Bighorns. I got there too late to set up the tent and slept in the back of my 4-Runner.
I woke up in the middle of the night to what sounded like a jet engine running just outside my rig. What it was was the wind rushing through the radiator of my vehicle. I had pointed it uphill right into the mass of air moving down the mountain as the temperature dropped. Just roaring. I've mentioned that to other people and they look at me like I'm nuts.
Loved the storm moving across the landscape in the distance. I had a similar experience in the flats at the base of the Bighorns. Except with lighting flashing and dark rain falling. The Bighorns and foothills in the background. The clouds, rain, and lightning moving slowly across the landscape. Probably ten miles away. One of those times when time simply stops. An epiphany of sorts.
Doors and wind are a big consideration for me. Twice I've opened a truck door and had it ripped from my hands and bent back into the front fender. That's an expensive mistake. In 75 mph (120kph) winds I'm not able to hold onto the door. Holding a door at 55 mph is possible, but that's still a lot of force.
Carolyn, your videos are great, I enjoy them...Don't worry about the wind. Sailboarding, and kiteboarders search for and chase gale force winds all over the world. We use RVs in high winds without a problem. In the Columbia River Gorge we regularly see 50 mph, even gusts to 70 mph. Yes these winds we love to sail in will clear your picnic table, but never tip an RV. For comfort in high winds jack up all 4 corners of your RV using screw adjustable jack stands on the frame or auto leveler jacks. Your RV will rock on the springs in wind unless you have it resting on jacks on all 4 corners. Happy Travels
Great video Carolyn!! Stay safe!
when I see beautiful skies in the southwest desert I literally tear up
Yes, nose into the wind. Keep in mind that at frontal passage the wind will shift 90 deg. I sometimes park quartering in anticipation of that shift. Often, right at fropa the wind will fall calm, then within minutes rise from the new direction. Usually, after fropa the wind starts to diminish. For the cold front a week ago (the front that came to your area) the wind started from the SW, then turned to NW. The plot of predicted wind on Weather Underground shows the wind shift clearly. You were fortunate to be surrounded by sage and scrub; no loose sand and no people with loose chairs that can smash into you. I love the violence as well as the peace of the desert. And the purple mountains at sunset are a special treat! Glad you're enjoying the desert, Carolyn.
Wunderground is my GO TO for all my weather, you can see the entire country, radar, severe alerts, they have it all. Talked my sister out of driving toward a tornado she was about to encounter because Wunderground radar is so good! Best on the web!!! Great that you got thru it and Capone looks like "hey Mom, why the big deal?" Another great and instructive video!!!
Beautiful scenery! At 13:45 it looks like a painting-- your rear window is reflecting that scenery!
Carolyn, I loved this video, although all of your videos are great, this was as though I was experiencing the wind with you. Thank you for your time and work in sharing your life. Take good care.
Thanks Carolyn. I was supposed to take off south today but tornados, floding etc made me wait. Hearing more from you has made up my mind.
In 1969 I was living in a one bedroom cottage a half block off of Rt 90 and the Gulf of Mexico. In August Hurricane Camille came through and we were all sent to a hotel right on Rt 90!!! I was on the second floor balcony, overlooking the lobby, when the Gulf burst through doors and flooded the first floor.... Everyone jammed the stairs to go back upstairs. We could feel the building moving!!!! It was many many years before I could sit through an ordinary thunderstorm... BUT, even having gotten over that if I had been in Matilda, I would have been OUTTA there!!!!!!!!!
I live in a mobile home,when Hugo came up on land and the high winds I was terrified! The top of my trailer sound like it was gonna ripple off at any time. I did lose some roofing from my porch. Most storms in my area don't scare me, but that one did. Glad you're ok. Stay safe out there you have friends that love you. Hugs
Great video, lots of helpful tips. Wonderful colours in the sky!
Nice video! When you think about it, just driving down the road the RV goes through 60mph winds or 70 depending on the speed limit. So, they are made to withstand lots of sustained wind by definition. Really nice to think about if you're stuck in a wind storm- or tropical storm as we are here in Texas. 😊. Be blessed...
I heard you say the other day how nervous you were about the winds that were predicted so I am glad you made this video so I know you made it through ok. Makes sense to point nose in the wind. When I sit by the harbor where I live and watch each tethered sailboat, they will all be facing into the wind. If the wind changes, so will they. Path of least resistance. Nothing like the colors in the desert, they were beautiful and everything look refreshed. Thanks!!
What an exciting adventure. Figuring out how to still boon dock and coexist with that wind. I loved it!!!!
One of the super cool advantages of the C class is how easily you CAN move it in an open space like that
And those skies.... wow!!!!!!
BREATHTAKING VIEW! Nice shot of the Virga (rain that doesn't make it to the ground) too! Thanks for bringing some freedom, hope, and joy into my life and I'm sure the lives of many. YOU ROCK!
So glad all turned out well.
Thanks again for sharing your journey.
And that sky!!!
Hugs from Maine.
Awesome video and such a great tip! That sky was absolutely gorgeous!!
Beautiful sky!! Glad you are safe!
If it's not the wind, it's the cold. If it's not the cold it's the rain or the snow or the desert heat. I never have any of those problems, God must really got it in for you! Watching your bin blowing away was a hoot, best part of the video.
I can't tell you how useful this info is! I like the less edited video's :) Thanks again for being awesome and inspiring!!
Carolyn, I enjoyed this and happy you did well, my first thought was hope it dies down by dark...You are amazing and to see you enjoying life is wonderful. I'm 75 and traveling with you...from home. Much love and safe travels. Pat
Fab! I feel like I'm in a John Wayne film watching your videos ;) Thank you Amazing landscape x
For AZ'S infamous dust storms, the dust is very very fine and will come right inside. For that, you'll want a NIOSH 95 face mask. I don't know if anyone has mentioned sage brush and tires...if you need to drive cross country, avoid running your tires directly over mature/old sage because it can break off close to the ground and puncture your tires.
I wish I knew where you were in this video...I was right there when you looked and stopped to give the clouds their do...the beauty is overwhelming isn't it!
Hi Carolyn,
I sat this storm out in a 20 ft travel trailer at Lavic east of Barstow. They forecast 20 mph then later upgraded it to 70. Visibility went to a few hundred feet. I parked with my back to the wind so the truck engine wouldn't fill with sand. Put the corner jacks down plus the tongue jack. Kept the trailer connected to the truck. First storm in the desert, I'm new to camping.
Love your videos.
Charlie
Beautiful sky! thanks for the vid
We were used to 25 to 35 mile an hour gusts all the time in the Panhandle of Texas. Its really flat here and the wind blows most all the time. Be safe out there Doll. Love ya.
Carolyn, for most of my life I dreamed of doing what you are doing, but never could, and so I enjoy your videos tremendously, and love your strength, sparkle and generous personality. Thanks for letting us ride along!
Pointing your rig into the wind is #1 thing to do. If you also put a stabilizer jack in each corner you will get rid of most of the rocking if not all of it.
I rv'ed the NM high desert for many years and never flipped.
Believe it or not, if you are carrying full tanks in the RV, your weight in back is approaching that of the front. Combined weight then becomes heavier than most travel trailers and fifth wheels. You are less likely to topple than they are. But you did it right. "Head into the wind". Good job kiddo! Keep it up.
Sailors have the "10mph Rule". Whatever a weather station anemometer reports, add 10mph to that when in open areas like marshland, open seas, and deserts(?).
Another great video! Thank you for sharing your life with us! I'm glad everything turned out ok! Safe travels my friend! :-) And such a beautiful view!
I recently stumbled upon your channel and have been viewing as many as possible. And have enjoyed every one I've seen thus far. A heart felt thank you for allowing us to be part of your amazing adventures. Your videos and story(yes, I read your blog) are truly outstanding. Thank you! :)
Thank you for being here Randy !!! I appreciate your kind words and support..
Good thing is you don't have falling trees to worry about. I always made a practice to place all my belongings inside and never leave "anything" out at night. just in case a fast exit needs to be made in the middle of the night. I don't know if it would make any difference to place a tarp under the hood and tie it down to the bumper to help keep the sand out of the motor compartment and may help keep some of the dust from getting inside.
Sometimes a ribbon or string tied to the top of the grill or to the hood latch/spring, so it blows up the hood will help let you know which way the wind is blowing and you can untie it when you start to drive.
A wise person once observed that experience is something that you don't get till just after you needed it. I tend to agree. Thanks, Carolyn for sharing your experience for the benefit of those of us (like me) who haven't had to deal with many of these situations before.
Love this video! What a gorgeous, gorgeous spot! Great tips, you are so fun to watch.
We own a 2012 wilderness trailer, we got 75 mile hour gusts our first year in MT and it moved our trailer diagonally 18 inches, I never prayed so hard.. I knew it was going to flip [scared me to death] it broke all the stabilizer jacks and blew off the lid to our water supply.. my husband ran out to fix it and got hit in the face with the board, 1/8 of an inch closer to the ear and it would have killed him, it knocked him senseless and scared the life out of me! Glad you stayed safe! Lynn
I have been through many windy days and nights. look for ankers that screw into the ground and a strap that hooks to your frame and rachet it down. These ankers are about 18 inches long.
i am fascinated by rv life, i have not seen one of these in the uk, usually its only caravans here, but i do like RV's, much more practical, i have seen motor vans in a similar shape, but much smasller than yours, i guess being a small island, RV's may not be seen as needed here, but i like them very much...
i love the sound of the wind, but it has in the past ripped the roof off of the large out house, also took off the roof tiles and damaged my chimney, of my home, very costly repairs that was, so i do feel trepidation nowadays being a widow...
your a brave girl Caroline
Dearest Carolyn, I absolutely loved this video. Well done! Best wishes to you, MM 👸🏻
Hi Carolyn. In a relatively open area like that you can fashion and plant 2 or 3 "flags" which will help you judge your line up when re-parking your rig with the nose into the wind. Position the flagpoles about 20 feet from where you want the front of your rig to be and put them in a V shape with the point to windward. You'll be able to see the wind direction as you reposition your rig.
Wow...beautiful scenery thanks for letting us watch as you learn.....take care!...
Amazing sky view and background scenery. Love your videos. Safe travels.
Thanks for sharing the information on wind storms and rigs. Glad you came out okay, and had no damage. I always watch and enjoy our videos, while I'm trying to get my stuff together to go on the road. You inspire and encourage so well! Be safe,
If you think about it, when you drive, you are moving through air pretty fast sometimes. So facing the wind if you can mimics driving.
Sailors have known to put her nose to the wind for centuries. Also, red sky in morning, sailor's take warning. Red sky at night, sailor's delight.
So that beautiful morning sky predicts more storms. Stay safe.
Jon in BC, where we get wind gusts up to 100 km/h. Things fly off the balcony if not tied down ... or fly on. I received several seedling starter pots. Empty, of course.
All I could think of was the wizard of oz!!! Carolyn and Capone ,the new Dorothy and toto."There's no place like home". Always beautiful after a storm!!!
"auntie Em!" :-)
Hi Carolyn, wind has always scared me, I'm glad you made it through the storm. Take care.
Good video. Keep doing what you're doing. I enjoy your honesty and down to earth being.
My wife and I had to replace a slide topper on our RV after a wind storm in January. I even have a video on my channel of an RV smashed in the same time frame in San Diego when we left the desert for a week. Be careful of what you choose for a wind break, the results may not be what you were expecting! The desert is windy much of the time, but turning into it is a perfect solution, after all, you drive 60 or 70, into the wind.
why don't you have someone mount the solar panels on the roof of your RV? so you don't have to mess with them much? or you can mount them on the side and make them to be able to tilt up toward the sky, then fold them back down when your drive. Just a thought.
I don't want them on my roof and will cover my reasons in a future video.
Stunning sunset shots. Thanks for sharing.
Quite an education! beautiful scenery. thanks for sharing.
Wow that place is so beautiful! I love seeing the places you go.
I'm so glad you got such a great tip and that you were safe - that first windstorm was scary! Living in tornado alley here, I wish I could face my condo into the wind. lol That sky and those mountains - OMG Like a gorgeous painting!
We live in a mobile home and last week the wind really hit here and we a anchored really good and you could feel the walls move. kind of spooky. Man were the clouds so magnificent in all their splendor. It is so amazing how the desert has different sunsets depending on where you are located. Great video again. So glad that this storm was easier. Stay safe and happy trails. Love Joyce
Again great video and info, what a ride glad you made it thru the wind great view of the mountains loved every min. of it. Peace Suzanne
Carolyn, that scenery was so incredibly beautiful. I think that you are lucky to get to see all of that countryside.
Since your campsite had the metal sign, you might tie a piece of yarn or rope to it and let it act as a windsock to provide a visual of the wind direction. A piece off your side mirrors could help with that as well.
Being afraid of wind makes two us ... we drove in 60 mph gusts (in spite of many strong suggestions to my trucker husband to pull off and park ... men!) .. the wind was so strong it unraveled the awning (twice), blew off two light covers, and peeled off a fiberglass fender skirt (costing $400 to replace both) ... all because "somebody" had to prove a point ... UGH ... Rule #1, "don't drive in high winds!"
what a gorgeous spot!
carolyn and capone ,please be safe and careful. i have been tru bad winds before over seas. besafe
Oh my goodness, so beautiful, I know you hated to leave! Glad you and Capone rode out the wind with no problems, it was a bit scary but you did well, my friend!
Video/photography tip of the day......hang a canvas bag from the bottom center of the tripod and add anything heavy, like rocks or canned food, to weight down and offer stability. Tripod won't blow over.
Carry 4 ground augers and cargo straps. Anchors and straps attach to frame of RV for additional stability in heavy winds.
I've just started following you videos. The beauty of that sky are moments I live for. thank you for sharing.
Wind is scary even in a house. Love your videos. This one in particular is like a storm chaser video.
Those pictures are beautiful. I'm glad you figured it out, you need to stay safe out there.
What a heavenly sky...sooo beautiful!!!
Thanks for this advice. I’ve been rocked to sleep many times in my motorhome but never once considered which way it was pointed. It sure makes sense...
Thanks Carolyn. Been wondering what it is going be like in the wind when we go full time. Thanks for the info! AND WOW! The scenery is spectacular!!! Like a painting!!
The wind is my favorite! I love a good storm.
Hi Carolyn, I noticed you put your solar panels on the ground. I've installed them as window awnings with temporary hardware and take them off when driving. I have two permanent on the roof and two temp as awnings. they block the sun from the windows and are angled to capture max sunlight. Also you might want to vacuum or change your air filter in that wind.
Hurricane Katrina broke a wind gauge at 165 mph as it came onshore in southeast Louisiana. That's why it brought the Gulf of Mexico with it.
Beautiful scenery! A Totally worth all that wind. Thanks so much for sharing your travels and trials. Hoping to join you out there in the wild soon in my own class c! Keep being the incredible woman you are!!
Thank you for sharing some important information - I love your down to earth presentation, it is "conversational" and not directive if it was, more hurt feelings from some hhahaha. Some have mentioned to cover your windshield, I would say if you do maybe some kind of canvas tarp or better yet, maybe a thin foam pad like for back-packing this way it is dual use and not just extra weight to haul around, I would reinforce the corners and use bungee cords fastened side to side and routed through the cab so that the foam isn't interfering with the door. A small air compressor would be nice to blow out dust in the air filter and might have additional uses - air tires up at any time. Some folks forget that you just can't buy anything you want or have heavy items because everything adds weight and diminishes your MPG. You are doing as my Father taught me: "Improvise, Adapt and Overcome!"
Watching this during a windstorm in my wildwood rv.
thanks for the reassurance! :)