The Joys of Moochdocking

 

Boondocking is a term used by RVers, when they camp someplace free and not in an RV park or campground. Those of you who camp in BLM land or off Forest Service roads have seen those slightly out of place 40 foot motor homes (usually with a generator running).
Moochdocking is camping out in someones' driveway or backyard (or pasture).

Of course, Gus is made for boondocking. We don't need water or electricity. There isn't a lot of room for trash (possibly the biggest flaw of the truck's design), and the cassette toilet needs to be dumped periodically. But we are comfortable way off the beaten path.
But sometimes, it's nice to not have to keep one eye on the battery monitor or the water level, or turn on the hot water heater before a shower.

Some time ago, we attended an event at Anza Borrego, in California. We went knowing we would only know one couple there, which was ok. While there, we were pleasantly surprised to see another overlanding friend. We wound up talking with him a lot, about traveling, balancing work and life and finding the best place to live.
He shared with us how he and his wife researched to find a place to settle, which offered us some great perspectives about our search.

Weeks later, we were in Arizona, plotting out a route for the next few weeks, trying to balance cell service, warm weather, and places to camp. Our friend offered up his house as a place to hang for a bit. It took a second or two to say "yes".
We pulled up and used the trick wi-fi connected lock to get in. (I am definitely getting one of those someday!)
It didn't take long to get used to "regular" showers, a big trash can, and wi-fi.
It was really great to be in one place for a week (which made it a lot easier to work) and explore town. You know you are in a good place when after three days people greet you by name when you walk into a coffee shop.
We are back in our little camper and re-learning the choreography involved in making coffee, doing morning stretches, and getting dressed (none of these activities is simple in a small space).
And I'm back to keeping one eye on the battery levels. (Still stoked about the new solar panels!)

Comments

[Brandon Libby]

Hey guys,
You know you guys always have a hot shower and a warm meal when traveling through Wyoming.

Your friends,
Brandon and Gwen Libby

[Cliff]

Moochdocking, a great term I hadn't heard before but it fits!

I need internet too bad to worry about mooching or not and finally installed a winegard connect. http://www.winegard.com/connect

[LouP407]

Cliff, we have a Cradlepoint in the ER, which has been a big help in staying connected.

[LouP407]

Thanks, Brandon! I look forward to taking you up on that invite soon.

[Ari]

Just found your blog and absolutely love reading it. Planning on buying an Earthroamer and your thoughts regarding some of the unique challenges you've faced have provided real insight for me. Thanks and keep writing!