Striving to be nomadic

[VanCamper]

hi all,
I've been yearning to live a nomadic life for several years. I enjoy the postings on this forum, they are very informative. I have camped in my van many times, usually at races, both car and motorcycle. I have stealth camped in hotel and Walmart parking lots. I worked a full time job for decades until last year when I was involved in a work accident which resulted in the loss of my right hand. Now I'm on disability.
Don

 

[cyndi]

Don, welcome to the CRVL forums!

I'm sorry about the loss of your hand. That's got to be a huge adjustment (understatement, eh?)! I think van-dwelling/full-timing will be an excellent option for you. I have some mobility and problems with my hands. I started out in a Class C and downsized to a van because it provided a simpler life style and less maintenance. I hope you'll share your journey with us.

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.

 

[VanCamper]

Thanks Cyndi,
This has been a HUGE change in my life, but nothing I can't overcome. I hope to someday full time in my van, or maybe a class c RV, but for now I camp in my van whenever I over night somewhere. I haven't paid for a hotel room in a couple years. Some people think I'm crazy, but I enjoy it. 
Don

 

[eDJ_]

Welcome to CRVL,    

Sorry to hear of your misfortune,  but I'd bet you could turn the coming years into a brighter life than you
had before in your work-a-day livin for the weekend world.   That's what so many here have done and are gearing up to do now. 

I left the Corporate World and am now self employed.  Lots of tax advantages in it.  I'm landed presently
but am fixing up an extended E 350 Ford high top and am considering a 10 ft single axle trailer to tow
behind it as my mobile living quarters and office.  I work as a VA (virtual assistant or online assistant). 
Not sure what kind of work you did but there may be something you could do online on the side.

But this board abounds with talent, creativity, good will, and not to mention good advice.

Hope you can get on the road soon and begin enjoying a life you never dreamed of before.

 

[VanCamper]

eDJ,
I worked the last 20 years as a Maintenance Mechanic for a manufacturing company and was lucky to get 1 day off a week. Before that I spent 10 years as a Motorcycle Mechanic. I worked with my hands, so this is something new to me.
I travel and camp in a 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan. The headroom isn't too robust, but it gets great gas mileage. I have a single bed in it, and Rubbermaid Action Packer totes for storage. It works fine for me at this time. I can't travel much right now, I'm still dealing with Workers Comp. settlement issues. I would love to go to RTR next year.
Don

 

[akrvbob]

I'm so sorry about your hand. In 2011 I severely broke my right wrist and elbow and loss all use of hand or arm for 3 months and I found it devastating. For awhile it looked like it would never come back and I was really broken up. Fortunately I had an exceptional surgeon and physical therapist and eventually recovered nearly all use.

I can imagine just a little bit how hard this is for you so I must offer you my deepest admiration for your attitude--all I can say is WOW! You're a better man than I am!

I'm really glad you are here and we want to be all the help we can to you!
Bob

 

[Silver]

"20 years as a Maintenance Mechanic for a manufacturing company and was lucky to get 1 day off a week"

I thought my 2 days off / week wasn't enough.
I'd like to move to 3-4 day work week. Then Retirement.

Tough break with the hand. I guess some people have no arms . . so . .
I'm thankful