Arizona adventurer

[becca]

I feel drawn to a more nomadic lifestlye but, like many of us, I allowed myself to get swept up in owning a house and buying stuff.  I find the “tiny home” movement fascinating and enjoy reading minimalist-inspired (and survivalist) blogs.  I've started the process of paring down the stuff and moving forward to a simpler life.  

My home on the road is a VW Vista (21’ Class C); although I have long wanted to do a cross-country trip, due to work and other obligations, my adventures have been limited to overnights and long weekends in established campgrounds in my home state of Arizona.  

My full-time management job is winding down, due to my employer’s decision to relocate several support functions to Southern California (they offered me a relocation package but after much thought, I politely submitted my resignation, agreeing to stay on until the end of July). 

A couple of weeks ago I downloaded Bob's e-book from Amazon and finished reading it while on a flight home from a business trip (am sure I will refer back to it often).  I have also been reading and learning from information here (and very much appreciate people's willingness to share and help others).

I am preparing for an August/September road trip -- on my schedule.  This trip may be my trial-run for a longer trip across the country to visit, and experience, the 36 states I have never before seen.  This will give me a feel for living in my Vista, and perhaps lead to a decision to live on the road on a longer-term basis.  Baby steps, right?

Here’s to taking that first step!

 

[Madpeep]

Welcome to the forum! There's a bunch of us (myself included) that are just getting started too. I'm still shopping around for the right vehicle. I have about two months until I hit the road

 

[DannyB1954]

Welcome to the tribe. There is a wealth of information here. And more advice than anyone could possibly want.
I say that in jest. You ever hear the saying that those who think they know it all really do upset those of us who really do know it all?
Lots of participation here, so if you do have a question, it will soon be answered.

 

[LadyJo]

Here’s to taking that first step!

The first steps are fun and confusing and a great learning process. When I first started planning I got so much info here I got confused. lol Still sorting things out. Hoping the end of July or some time in Aug is when I can begin my road journey.

 

[eDJ_]

Welcome to the CRVL forum    

I got my feet wet the same way you are doing now.  I was in College and got an old Van and later a motor boat that I could go to the state parks on the long week ends or to the nearby large cities on the regular week ends to shop and look around for opportunity.   I would stay in the Van overnight opposed to spending a bundle for a motel room. 

Some may never become full timers and go to the national meet-up's and still enjoy this way of life on the week ends or vacation breaks.   If you are working and tied to the seniority system & pension you may not have too much of a choice,  so any "get away from it all" you can get is significant. 

Those who are displaced from work and want to go full time will have options.   Such as becoming a "VA" (virtual assistant or as some call them "online assistants")   Here they can live in their Vans or RV's and make money online to fund their travels and expenses until such time they can find another job in a better economy than they were in.   It is one's taste in wine,  you drink what you like.

My two websites below showcase how I started with a converted Van,  and a more recent one is a portal of helpful info & links for those who are on the road and traveling.   Those who want to get a Van and start into this way of travel will benefit from giving these a look.  

Good Luck in your travels.

 

[becca]

Being able to research and learn here has been a huge help in keeping my attention focused on getting ready for what lies ahead, rather than lamenting the corporate bs that I am leaving behind.  

The people closest to me, while they are generally supportive of my interest in this path, simply don't "get it."  And I completely respect that.  I suspect at least a couple of them secretly wonder if I've lost it!  Admittedly sometimes I do too!   So spending time here has also given me the sense that while I am doing this solo, I am not alone in choosing this direction.

I am truly grateful to be in a place where I can explore this change in lifestyle and know that I am going to be okay, regardless of how far I decide to take it.  I have options.  While I am feeling a bit scared, I also see that as a sign that I am on the right course.

 

[DannyB1954]

People will often stay in a bad situation merely because it is familiar to them. That could be a bad job, relationship, or many other things. They fear anything that would be unknown or different. In hindsight, I am glad I am not one of those people. It is important to make an informed decision, ( not jump on a whim), but once I feel moved to do something, it is probably the thing for me to do. Some of the most interesting and influential people throughout history were not afraid to move or change their life.

When trying something new, it is probably best not to burn the bridges behind you if possible, (like tell the boss what you really think of them). Being able to go back doesn't mean you will want to, but I think it is a better situation than I couldn't go back even if I really wanted to.

 

[cyndi]

Becca! Welcome to the CRVL forums! I hope you'll consider heading for the RTR, in Quartzite, AZ, in January!

http://www.cheaprvliving.com/gatherings/

To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips & Tricks" post lists some helpful information to get you started. We look forward to hearing more from you.