tenderfoot
New member
- Joined
- Jul 28, 2017
- Messages
- 4
- Reaction score
- 0
Hi folks! New guy here, with real motivation to take a leap of faith.
I have watched dozens of vids (thanks to all who bother to document their knowledge, and share it. You have created a valuable resource), and they have convinced me an enjoyable life can be had, even with physical challenges, if I start preparing now.
I have gleaned, from all the vids, that I would be better off starting small (vehicle size), and going up if it seems needed (the opposite approach looks like a good way to lose money). I love remote camping, but can no longer pack stuff in (not to mention that sleeping on the ground has slowly lost ALL it's appeal to me)... so, I'm working on converting a 2WD Astro van (with a possible AWD conversion, if it turns out I'm braver than the Astro is capable). My plan is to make it good for a week or so (self supported), and get and mod a small trailer to hold long term supplies, tools, my generator and convenience items (and, if needed, hold a campsite, while making town runs).
I have made some progress on the van. It's now good to go, as a vehicle, and I'm building a comfortable bed (Invacare power adjustable) that will also provide comfy seating (no room for my recliner in there). I did a full LED conversion on the stock lighting, in bright white, and have the parts and materials to set up a seperate warm white environment while parked. Plans are to set up a solar system independent of the vehicle's wiring, only linked by a solenoid for charging while driving. I have been ebaying all the parts, and being in no hurry has saved me some cash.
My only remaining concerns are security and comms. I have watched enough of Bob's vids (thank you, sir) to solve the latter, I believe (can't wait for the coming vid on cheap internet). The former can only be mitigated by my meeting you folks, and seeing your community in person... so, I'm trying to be ready for the next RTR. Frankly, I look forward to this part the most... more and more every day.
Again, thanks to all who take their time to educate us newbs. As Bob maintains, the psychological barriers appear to be a greater hurdle than actually gearing up. and mine are slowly melting away. You can all take some credit for that! I hope to eventually meet you all.
Eric
I have watched dozens of vids (thanks to all who bother to document their knowledge, and share it. You have created a valuable resource), and they have convinced me an enjoyable life can be had, even with physical challenges, if I start preparing now.
I have gleaned, from all the vids, that I would be better off starting small (vehicle size), and going up if it seems needed (the opposite approach looks like a good way to lose money). I love remote camping, but can no longer pack stuff in (not to mention that sleeping on the ground has slowly lost ALL it's appeal to me)... so, I'm working on converting a 2WD Astro van (with a possible AWD conversion, if it turns out I'm braver than the Astro is capable). My plan is to make it good for a week or so (self supported), and get and mod a small trailer to hold long term supplies, tools, my generator and convenience items (and, if needed, hold a campsite, while making town runs).
I have made some progress on the van. It's now good to go, as a vehicle, and I'm building a comfortable bed (Invacare power adjustable) that will also provide comfy seating (no room for my recliner in there). I did a full LED conversion on the stock lighting, in bright white, and have the parts and materials to set up a seperate warm white environment while parked. Plans are to set up a solar system independent of the vehicle's wiring, only linked by a solenoid for charging while driving. I have been ebaying all the parts, and being in no hurry has saved me some cash.
My only remaining concerns are security and comms. I have watched enough of Bob's vids (thank you, sir) to solve the latter, I believe (can't wait for the coming vid on cheap internet). The former can only be mitigated by my meeting you folks, and seeing your community in person... so, I'm trying to be ready for the next RTR. Frankly, I look forward to this part the most... more and more every day.
Again, thanks to all who take their time to educate us newbs. As Bob maintains, the psychological barriers appear to be a greater hurdle than actually gearing up. and mine are slowly melting away. You can all take some credit for that! I hope to eventually meet you all.
Eric