Hello

[Outcast2576]

Hi all,

Just watched nomadland for the 5th time and am still crying. My heart aches for the road and the life i wanted 34 years ago. I am 53 a year from retirement from a 30 yr and out job I've hated for 29 years 364 days. I want this life again. I'm scared loneley and have no idea where to begin. several things have happened recently to bring the pain back up. the Movie, old friends reached out and i met a couple in their very early 20's who reminded me so much of me and my girlfriend when i was 19. we both never wanted to stay in one place. I did the responsible thing got the perfect job married divorced re-married raised a family. Lost myself in alcohol and drugs for awhile,gave up on so many dreams of the road that i wanted to show wife and kids.now my kids are grown, wife is very distant and soon to be seperated. in 18 months my career will end ......... Is it my time now ? could really use some advice.

 

[mattvei]

I hear your pain and uncertainty. As many here have commented, you just have to step out into uncertainty. No other choice. You'll never know enough. Find somewhere to start that will allow - cook, eat, clean, sleep, relax, potty, drink, stay dry and comfortable. Have an emergency fund. Then use caravan or similar meetups and throw yourself on the mercy of the participants. Helps if you have a useful skill you can offer. The rest will work itself out. Be vulnerable, not needy, and others will help.

 

[vgilbert]

Hello and Welcome!!
Me: 53 year old retired Firefighter/Paramedic in early retirement. Decided about 7 months ago to live life and enjoy as much as this country has to offer. Built my rig (26 ft. shuttle bus conversion), first overnight was Aug. 2nd, 2020 and I have slept in it every night since. 18 states later I am so very happy that I first found the hashtag vanlife on Instagram, then Bob Wells and his youtube channel. 

It has been a happy life out here so far. However, this week has brought its first major challenge.... Currently sitting at a transmission shop in Yuma Arizona most likely looking at a major repair. I knew or at least expected something at some point, 14,000 miles in 7 months is a lot. The good news in this- I have met some amazing people this week who have came along side to help figure this out. I, nor you, will be alone out here. (my experience).

Being out here is life, for me its been a good life, but life has its ups and downs.
The best advise I have heard since planning my rig is this "wherever you go, there you are". Only you can know if this lifestyle is right for you. Do your research, decide what you want to do with the experience, make a plan, HAVE A BACKUP PLAN, and set your dream in motion. 
I encourage you to post your questions, PM me if you like, and take your time.
Good luck
God Bless

 

[nature lover]

Your question “is it my time“ he’s one that only you can answer. You don’t have to jump in over your head. You can stick your toe in and test the water a little bit and then keep going if it suits. I part-time for many years and now I’ve been full-time since June 1, 2020. I’ve had so many problems and missed so many things I wanted to do in this last year but I still wouldn’t change it I wanted to do it I was told I couldn’t with my health. But I went out and did it. I may be proved wrong but I’ll have a smile on my face and I won’t be locked in that retirement home anymore until I can’t function at all. Welcome to the forum in the community. I hope you find what you’re looking for, God bless you.

 

[landyachtman]

Welcome to the CRVL forums! To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips, Tricks and Rules" post lists some helpful information to get you started.

Most of our rules boil down to two simple over-riding principles: 1) What you post should provide good information (like your introductory post), and 2) Any response to someone else's post should make them feel glad they are part of this forum community.

We look forward to hearing more from you.

 

[Outcast2576]

Hey folks,

I didnt mean for my first post to sound so negative I'm just a worn out individual. The original retirement plan was to hike the entire pacific crest trail from mexico,Pick up the pacific northwest back to montanna then down the continental divide back to mexico. Physically i dont see this happening. I'm ready to hit the road, I'm an advid hiker/camper, have backwoods skills, was a paramedic and I am an awesome gardner. I just after 34 years of the rat race wanting a much more simple and free life.I'll be in a good position as i will have atleast 3100$ a month pension and have many skills to earn extras. I'm in the beginning of the process to put things in place so when i make my move it will be a good one

 

[cyndi]

Make a plan and go for it. I've been on and off the road a half dozen times due to health and family issues. The plan can always be adjusted. After almost two years of being tied down, I'll be back out in a few months. It's the only life for me!