Van Life 101: How to Find Other People When Living in a Van

[@warreneisenburg5649]

Bob I'm 73 years old and I've always been a nomadic person. I'd work a while and roam for a while when money got low and I wanted to keep roaming I'd sell the car then HOBO for a while and enjoy the beauty of our COUNTRY, stopping of for a couple of days for crop harvest or day labor and I was very happy with life. Then I got married and life became a living HELL. any way when I no longer had the NIGHTMARE of a wife I became a drifter once again. I lived in my astro van on the river bank for 6 summers in a row and worked then rented an apartment in the winter. I had some MEDICAL issues and had to live in an apartment for three years and my savings were soon gone. I just got a clean bill of health from my VA doctor to go back to traveling again as I told her of my life style. Anyway I just got my first smartphone 6 months ago and learning how to use it has been a challenge for me. I accidentally came across you on KZbin and it blew me away. You sir are the GODFATHER of nomads, as James Brown is to soul music. You are a blessing to me Sir and I'm moving back into my Astro Van July 1ST as I'm putting money back to replace all 5 sensors new in it. iv been spending money on getting I mechanically sound. I'm moving out of housing July 1ST live on the river untill Aug 1ST then I'm going to SD and get the mailing address set up like you suggested. Thanks for your knowledge. My niece is going to show me how to log into your website in July. I will be at the 2019 RTR. Hopefully with the money to buy a hightop like you suggested. I'LL rough it out in the old Astro untill I can afford a good old hightop in good shape and low mileage. Again if you get this COMMENT I want to thank you for removing all my fears of bondockin. Like I said SIR your a blessing to us.

[@stoneyrunva]

"I hope that doesn't sound egotistical." Sir, I've watched enough of your videos that I think it's safe to say you have more humility than most humans possess in a lifetime.

[@Qmountainkid]

Agree 100% we need more people like Bob!

[@knokname6466]

not to mention long-winded. He can sure obscure the point of his story.

[@elcubanito2442]

@@knokname6466 🤡

[@YeahNah100]

Absolutely. Bob is a true gem. 💝

[@gwendolynfloccari4927]

1111111

[@Mrlrobertson]

I just have to tell of this experience. My son, step son and I did an impromptu camping trip for an overnite at Mammoth cave KY and just packed the bare essentials. we had pretty much what we needed but being just a quickie over niter we didn't really stock pile the food (we had enough though) and the camper neighbors either saw we were roughing it or just had fixed way too much breakfast stuff, but they sent over the biggest bunch of grub with OJ and milk at that. The father and son (I assume) came over asked if we could use some extra fixings and so we said sure and thanked them very kindly. This was many years ago and have never forgotten that kindness. So I always look around to see if there is a little something that I can help with be it firewood/charcoal , water, fishing doodads or maybe what they may be lacking. The generosity and kindness is out there, so just smile and say hi and you probably will meet some the nicest people .

[@cdd4248]

I am social worker/ therapist listening to this in 2021 and couldn't agree with you more! How nice of you to address this-

[@natureeagle6756]

"fear keeps you in your house and in a miserable situation." that comment sir was the most concise phrase that sums up my current situation. I am currently looking for a vehicle as we speak. I am miserable living in a city and with a person, I can't stand. Thank you for making these videos.

[@CheapRVliving]

You are welcome. I hope you are able to find happiness and a life you love! Good luck.

[@dibbleTax]

Hi Bob my name is David and I came across your videos some time ago. I walked from the US Capitol to a bit past Denver Colorado carrying a 75 lb backpack. I did so for PTSD awareness. I'm a Navy veteran at 59 years old. I had four heart attacks on the journey so your videos were very much welcomed. I am getting a bus, 5 window fixing it up to live in. Thank you for all the info and I will see you on the road!

[@yolandav2784]

Thanks so much Bob.. For 35 years i have been with my late hubby . care taking him from dementia, so i didn't get out much. My life was just work and back. He passed 2 years ago. Now i want to go on the road.. Nothing holding me back .. I will purchase a van soon. And preparing to go!!. You have eased the fear that i had to go out and Travel.you have insipred me. I will be taking a big step . just to drive far places. But i have to do it to beat that fear.God Bless You😊. I will start off going to RTR. Hope to see all the tribe. In cluding meeting you!😊and regular youtubers!! Yay!! im excited.thank you for the map to quartsite..A leap of Faith..Thx Bob.😊

[@schauneille]

Yolanda Ventura So sorry for your loss. I pray that your new life adventures are all you hope for and more. God Bless and be with you in your travels!!

[@yolandav2784]

Shnell Alln awhh ..Thank You for the Sentiment.. I hope to meet such caring people like YOU. Along my new jourmey.😊💝.. Lord bless You as well. Made my Day!!

[@yolandav2784]

raleighman3000 Thank you. For word of encouragement. Bless you!!

[@stanleysteele6653]

So sorry to hear! Bless you!

[@yolandav2784]

stanley steele Thank You so much for the Heartfelt words .. God Bless You!!☺🎶🌞.

[@lisabooker6405]

Bob you have the biggest heart ❤️ on KZbin!!! God Bless you and Thank You for all you do! ~Lisa

[@cindyann8314]

Omg Lisa glad you posted I just watch him and wonder if hes so busy, lol I mean with women. Ive liked him since I first seen and heard his voice. I agree Lisa, I really like him.

[@rickycook6881]

Odd birds

[@mercibeaucoup2486]

Odd Ricky cook

[@Steelhorsecowboy]

Bob I have been binge watching your videos and you have captured the culture I remember as a kid in the early 1960s. My Dad converted a VW van in 1963 to a camper we took on weekend trips and vacations. Back then we ran into people who converted all kinds of vehicles (buses, box trucks, mail trucks, etc.) or were really innovative tent campers. Campers/RVers are the best. They loved showing each other the innovations, work arounds and inventions they came up with to make life on the road more comfortable. They reveled in helping one another and found joy not in how much money they had to spend, but how little they spent and how far they could make it go. There was a great sense of kinship. Great people!

[@jaimhaas5170]

That would be a pretty cool way to spend free time...among fellow creative types....count me in!

[@SparklingGems]

You are such an amazing asset to the community, Bob! Thank you for all you do!!!

[@ralphwilson.]

Will you be there later this year 2022 Bob ? I'm in Arizona now. Husband passed away recently. You're a breath of fresh air. Leading many to the promised land. Thank You 💖

[@AD-xt9og]

Here is a suggestion. A camping group I meetup with sometimes uses the yellow happy face so we can find people in the group we do not know yet. We put it on our rig or by the road next to our camp. I have a yellow plastic plate I drew my happy face on. If someone else just happens to have a happy face they just get to meet new friends too. Some time the happy face is just made on a white paper plate.

[@annsayger5842]

☺ REALLY? Ha ha ha

[@JohnDoe-rx3vn]

People at huge concerts do this to find their friend groups, they call them "totems"

[@Paeoniarosa]

This is a really nice idea.

[@allisonwerth8848]

This is one of my favorite videos that you've done. I think so many of us have some level of that primal social anxiety of sorts. One of the first things I thought of after deciding to go to the 2019 RTR was "OMG! How am I going to do the initial awkward meet people thing?!!!?" But after watching this video I feel a lot better about it. Thank you for everything you do. :)

[@therealMelB]

Ahhhhhhh.....the age old dilemma....how to make friends. Humblness is #1. Learn to listen more, talk less. Offer to help others, be generous & kind. Do not expect everyone to like you & learn bodylanguage. If you feel awkward around a group after an hour or so its probably because thats not who you gel with. Move on to the next group until you feel comfortable. Its ok, theres plenty of vandwellers out there! Good luck!!!

[@daviddionne8296]

There is a reason why we have two eyes, two ears, and only one mouth....

[@davidmears6639]

Something we used to do at rallys was have a welcome sign, a ribbon on a door handle, a rope tied on a bumper or anything simple that a stranger could recognize as an ok to approach. Mine would be out all day until supper when it was our time the i would just remove it. Fairly simple and makes it easier for a strager to say hello.

[@StudioTrev813]

David Mears Good idea. Somebody should sell those. RTR “Meet Me” Door knockers $4.99! Hmmmm

[@VickyGeagan]

Heck in my area a lot of people down on their luck that are able to help others would have a rope tied from their trailer hitch on their rear bumper or just any where their. It means come of over I am in the tribe.

[@zenrascal]

Bob, you touch many lives. I'm not an RVer but let me join the chorus who thanks you. Your videos are inspirational and uplifting. This is your best IMO.

[@roslynwrenthwaite1149]

Reminds of 30's depression era language of hoboes sharing wisdom of the road by leaving a 'sign' on a fence or tree, code for " Nice Lady Will Offer Apple Pie Here" or " Bad Dog, Do Not Approach", " Can Sleep In Barn " ....

[@louisejones6239]

Reminds me of my granny. We began to think that someone put out by word of mouth about her sharing heart. Because seems like someone was always coming from the trains to her house. Or normand's that had build a tiny home on the back of their trucks ( known as gypsy wagons) to get something to eat. And she was blessed, because all these people ( males, families) always looked out and shared with my granny. Whether they sharing with whatever they could or by only telling good folks about her. Her heart 💓 was big. Granny transitioned many years ago. But this reminds me of her loving Spirit. We are blessed with many great memories and have great funny stories ❤️

[@johnbergholm]

Boy Bob, you hit the fear-nail right on the head! Maybe we can take a lesson from AA and introduce ourselves with: "Hi. I'm a friend of Bob." Or put a similar sign on our rig or at our camp?

[@nurscathwill]

John Bergholm that's a cool idea! I am a friend of both Bob's. Lol

[@SN-qu2gz]

You are a good man Bob. On the path of a true human being.

[@Paula-is1jb]

Thank you Bob, I've been seriously thinking about hitting the road. Yes it scares me, as I would probably be alone. Watching your videos, has been so helpful. I love seeing all the different types of people boondocking, and enjoying the great outdoors! I'm now saving money to purchase a van. I'm getting so much valuable information about setting it up, and what my needs will be. Maybe I'll get to meet you and some of the wonderful people, you have been interviewing.❤️ Take care and God bless you all.🙏🏼

[@sunshinemodels1]

Bob, we're a young couple (in our 30s) and want to join.. so thanks for keeping us posted. You bring up some good points. We believe its healthy to meet new people, especially of different ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. One rule we follow that helps break through the fear of meeting strangers that always work for us is "do unto others as you would want them to do unto you"

[@olene6199]

sunshinemodels1 Very informative as usual. Awesome

[@karenmelton1033]

Thank you so much for this great video. Everything you said hit home for me. I am a shy person and love to be by myself, but there are times I need to be around people. I would love to go to the RTR. Maybe you will see me there. Thanks again!

[@TheNat2974]

hope to see you im the same way

[@philguzman6932]

I went to Quartzite last year with the intention of going to the RTR. When I saw how many people were already in town, I was immediately intimidated and turned around and hung out in Ehrenberg for a week. Maybe I'll give another try this year and won't chicken out.

[@SharonGulezian]

my first time this year. go and don't be intimidated. we can say hello.

[@valerieviramonte2052]

Can always count on you to help folks feel comfortable and welcome.

[@CaptCutler]

If you're boondocking in camper as a lifestyle, you're probably not all that interested in being around people. However, we're people, so when we realize that we need SOME human interaction, it induces a little panic when you think about going out and meeting strangers. Good questions.

[@gator5566]

I have panic attacks when I'm around to many people. I hate the way this world has become I wanna move to Alaska and live in the wild if I can

[@CaptCutler]

I'm the same way, and observe the same world. I hope you can make it out to Alaska if that's what you want to do. I'm currently trying to find a remote webmaster job so I can boondock in a van/camper in the PNW.

[@OnTheHighWatch]

Don't eat the berries and the Alaska story never ended well for anybosdy well no matter what!

[@terrieross3051]

Capt. Cutler. Good Luck! Best wishes! Prayers sent... It's beautiful country! 💙

[@OnTheHighWatch]

Have you seen the movie? The guy dies alone in a broken down school bus. STOP NORMALIZING Homelessnes and poverty. Don't #Resist, #REVOLT!!!

[@isabellel7677]

I love your thoughts. Thank you Bob!

[@just82much72]

You are awesome Bob. Thanks for taking the time to make such a helpful video. -Mark

[@WeAreCreators]

You are just the best type of a human being, Bob!

[@lindagailsch]

Bob how amazing that you share that info with everyone & are willing to help everyone. It is truly your calling helping others. I hope some day to be able to meet the tribe.

[@Musicescape17]

Its my dream way of living. so happy I found your informative channel in March. I love to see all the adventure and so much good info.

[@ChrisRI1000]

I remember the video you did on the Ehrenburg location. You are so precise in your directions I could find it in the dark during a sand storm. Really good info on the area, time of year and the RTR. Thank you Bob.

[@tayloredtravels5271]

Thanks so much Bob. I'm really hoping to make it to the RTR this year! I may not be living full time in my car by then, but I can hardly wait!

[@revddtunivesralbroadcaststash]

thank you for posting these...they are really inspiring and clear and informative ...bless you brother!!

[@feliciabutler4625]

Once again Bob, your video is full of GREAT information and welcoming SPIRIT. I am SO Blessed with the HOPE you emit from every pore.

[@GypsyFeet316]

I just found your channel and just love it!!! Four years ago I was plucked out of the work force by a drunk driver. A year later I found myself living out of my truck. I did that for about two years. I look forward to getting back into the swing of boondocking and love your suggestion about practicing boondocking for short spurts in order to work the kinks out. Since I can't work anymore the nomadic lifestyle seems like it would be the best fit for me. Thanks for what you do...great channel 💖

[@LadyPenelope]

You always speak from the heart, Bob. That is something I really appreciate and value in a person. Thanks for your gentle and compassionate spirit...

[@pepperh3697]

Thank you for another great video, Bob. What you do for the tribe is incredible!

[@davidhollifield4794]

Thank you Bob..I see this growing way larger than you could ever have dreamed..

[@NoProGoPronto]

Great info Bob! This is so wonderful. I guess if I had a like minded tribe around me, I wouldn't be sitting here watching this video from the comforts of my home. LOL!

[@dianesisk8038]

NoProGoPronto u

[@allisonwerth8848]

LOL!!

[@nitefox4411]

Bob, thanks. Your social network is a blessing. As an introvert/loner I was still wondering this very question. You are awesome dude! I won't choose to be living out of my car or van, but if I do, it is not the end of the world. In fact, I am learning joy can be found inside of a car. Wow!

[@misfitgypsy6669]

Thank you Bob for these videos. You are helping greatly in getting prepared mentally for the RTR. As an introvert that has a hard time stepping out of what's comfortable for me your words are comforting and helpful. I have work commitments where I'm currently at till Christmas. Then I'm on the road full time, for the first time in January. Safe travels tribe! Hope to meet some of you in January at the RTR!

[@robertvandenbrink6187]

Bob. ... I liked you from the first video I saw that you did. ...and right on to today. ..You have been a great inspiration for me. ... I am in the process of building a van right now.

[@stinger4583]

Outstanding video Bob. This lifestyle is fascinating to me. You give so freely of your life experiences and thoughts and philosophy that is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I like that. Your YT videos, that you work so hard to make, is a very honorable and noble service that has enriched so many lives. Thank you so much. I hope to meet you one day.

[@williammedford5891]

Thank you, Bob, for holding the space for all of this. I recognize that you are a rambling introvert, and that you have to step beyond your natural inclinations to do what you do, and that is a valuable thing.

[@thanhhoale3886]

When I was in my younger years my friends told me that " only a loser would go to a theater or go eat in a restaurant alone". Despite of what they said I took my gut to do whatever they think is odd, so I one day I went to a restaurant to eat by myself, the next day I went to the theater just to see how it was like. I felt normal even some people were looking at me, but I didn't care " what's wrong if I go by myself " ? It's just how you think and how you deal with the things you want to do despite of what other people say or look at you. A strong mind person doesn't always need another person in his/her life to be able to have a "normal" life as the majority of other people. That's how it makes you unique and it helps you to be strong in the most difficult situation. I am a kind of person that if you tell me something that I should not do then I would love to do the opposite. Sometimes I know it would hurt me but I will do it anyway just to show someone that I don't like to be in controlled by someone.

[@saradanser894]

Your hair and beard look Glorious. Also LOVE your heart to help people- there's no substitute. Can't fake it. People can feel and sense when someone cares.

[@jamespowell740]

Much appreciation and respect to you Bob. As someone who is new to this and seriously starting to consider this lifestyle...your videos have offered me a ton of valuable information. You are a true inspiration and a valuable resource for this community. Thank you for all your efforts, and keep up the great work

[@adoseofjosh9300]

Thank you for your awesome videos! I appreciate the effort you put into these. It has opened my mind to many things. Keep it up!

[@waltobringer2928]

Bob, I like who you are. Thanks.

[@sallysavage3879]

Thank you so much, Bob, for all the suggestions and useful information - it's much appreciated :D

[@Qmountainkid]

Great and timeless video, couldnt be more on point! Just retired and will begin my journey this Fall, cant wait to meet you Bob! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@cherimonteith7068]

Thanks Bob, for this video. We are excited about the RTR, and had the very fears you discussed. We feel this event will change our lives forever. We no longer want to be prisoners of the "established' norm. And our family thinks we're nuts.

[@jefffarwell5062]

Thank you Bob for all your videos. Your heart is bigger than the land you camp on!

[@timothytesch6681]

Bob I am retired Army, planning to get out full time RVing in the near future, enjoy your videos, big fan

[@marilynstarck6310]

Bob, you are a gifted inspirational teacher! Thank you for sharing, educating, and motivating us dreamers!

[@Takpay]

I'm sorry Bob, I'm here I have been walking around. The first place I walked by I waved I spoke out Hi!. This place has a sign. It says main camp. It has cones to block it off. 3 people sitting there NOT one waved or said hi back!. I'm a newbie here and I would have thought the MAIN Camp , would have been the place to go and meet greet and just find out where things are. You are a great person for all you do and have done for everyone. I thank you for all I have learned. I hope I get to meet you and learn more from the tribe.

[@glennleatherman2843]

thank you Bob for taking the time to explain all of this

[@Scott_B1029]

I'm sure you've thought of selling a CheapRVLiving.com window sticker. It would be a cool way to meet people, even if they're 2,000 miles from Arizona.

[@londoncalling8121]

Hey Scott. That's a fab idea!

[@AdventureNomadforNature]

I have one on my van window. Quite a few of us do. Bob will have them at the RTR.

[@AdventureNomadforNature]

But he doesn't ask for money. He might accept a donation, not sure though.

[@Scott_B1029]

Nice, thanks.

[@wendyfinerrn442]

Bob, you are so real. I love your empathetic heart and logical mind. I don't even know you, but you are my tribe.

[@ZiggZagg11]

You talked me into joining your forum... 😜

[@mlcarroll8409]

oops.... sorry,,, hit wrong button!

[@ritabruce758]

How does one join the forum?

[@linechouinard628]

What is the link to the forum? I didn't find it..😕

[@treybeckwith5312]

My wife a few months ago started watching your videos and we had just our truck at the time and I was working fast food like 60 hours a week so we started saving my money and bought a slide in truck camper so we can try the work camper thing a friend decided to join us and we're headed to the eye this year to go to the big tent and attend your seminars before we start this big adventure. You've been very enlightening thank you

[@mildredlackey1938]

Very good video Bob, very informative and very useful, thanks,

[@cyndifoore7743]

Another great video Bob. I can talk to anyone so that’s not a problem for me, I need to get a vehicle and get out there, I can’t wait to meet you snd others. Safe travels Bob.

[@malcolmnicoll1165]

Thanks ever so much for posting this video, Bob. I look forward to meeting up with you, and the tribe.

[@BillGAndrews]

Thx Bob. I don't like looking bad. I hope that is not what motivates me though. I work at surrendering fear. I was afraid to reduce my things to what fit in my 28' Class A and my 10' trailer. I was afraid to vacation by myself. I go in spite of fear and it has been wonderful. Some of my fear is not rejection but that I might be accepted and have a new friend, with that comes a level of responsibility. That's scary. My favorite saying is "It's all good". I'm in Pahrump. Vegas late November, then on my way to Arizona mid December. Look forward to my first RTR.

[@janicehart5397]

Where do you stay in Vegas?

[@BillGAndrews]

I have the 1st to the 15th reserved at Thousand Trails. I'll be attending a convention one weekend then my son's coming to visit during that next week. He likes the TV show "Game of Thrones" so I'm taking him to Tournament of Kings in Vegas. He hasn't seen it, I know he'll love it.

[@mcdowell356]

Boondocker Bill l

[@martywilsonlife]

Isn't that SO true about the level of responsibility of a new friend? This is part of the reason we 'vet' each other so heavily. But, in the long run how things pan out has, to some degree, to do with whether or not we believe that people are basically good. 'Sometimes we need to do our best to accept the flaws along with the pleasures of having a good friend who 'gets us.'

[@tamelanelson1667]

Boondocker Bill read your comment and agree. Love having part time associates but don’t enjoy full time friends, I love my space. So funny gotta say I live in Pahrump and I love it! We have a 5th wheel trailer and don’t use it much, be glad when we are retired to go more! Take care and have fun on your travels! 👍

[@julieowen5874]

Thank you so much. You are such a kind man. Please don't stop inspiring people...

[@BillyJones-mf3ev]

A very thoughful, thank you! You spoke of yourself how I feel about myself in the terms of fear of being rejected. Being a gal looking to get into this lifestyle you give me inspiration! Thank you!

[@sunshinechaser]

Thank you Bob! This was so well said. Thank you for your honesty and truth about you life experiences. It really does all boil down to fear and from fear stems all the other issues and problems we create in our minds. Sometimes just hearing that someone else has experienced similar stuff makes us feel less alone & that right there is a beautiful thing. So thanks for your wisdom.

[@Oldesouth]

Come to Alabama in the November time. One can grow your own food and I have 40 acres, a well and electricity.... The winter is great here, the summer is hell...

[@vickief.schoeneberg9839]

Where in Alabama are u located ?? It's sounds great I doing that & inviting folks on & to ur land ! God Bless U ! I hope I can come camp there in the near-future ! I'm in Northwest Florida is why I'm asking where ur located cause it wouldn't be far for me to go. Thank u !

[@crippyandkaatje]

@@vickief.schoeneberg9839 Right? I want to go too! 😃

[@hkulmn3720]

More info ease I'm from FL and just starting out. Would love to spend time I. Alabama.

[@yelenakozorezov717]

Nice

[@floridabells]

@@vickief.schoeneberg9839 I’m also nw Fl. Building out my van now.

[@rawfoodphilosophy7061]

just an FYI, I was headed down to Tucson, AZ and it is WAY TO HOT!!! it's in the high 80's and my body isn't adjusting and my van is scalding hot, sweating at night. I'm gonna go back up to prescott, a little higher altitude and cooler at night.

[@laurencegoldman4639]

How can I contact you? I'm raw food vegan setting up nomad existence. I have questions about fresh veggie storage and prep off the grid (How much fridge, how much water to make it work to limit shopping trips? If man made it, I don't eat it). Plus I have questions running a Vita-Mix/ Norwalk Juicer and maybe dehydrator)

[@none6299]

Hi Bob, I don’t have my RV yet. But 2018 is my year to fine one. I’ve been saving. After my dad passes, it’s my plan to be a full timer. Your KZbin S and Carolyn’s too. I’m 60 and this gives me hope. I gave everything up to be dads caregiver, and he has Parkinsons and Dementia. Dad is physically healthy at age 87. I look forward to joining the nomad movement. Peace and love! ✌🏽💓

[@vickibedford55]

New attitude, new freshness... what an enlightening philosophy!

[@marsharoach8621]

Will I'm not afraid, to met people myself, and if your travel alone, remember your not alone there's a whole world of people that have the some life styles, and it's the most awesomest way to life. true freedom!!

[@roadrunner17lee66]

Thank You, for answering those questions. I was wondering how to ask those questions without looking stupid.

[@maxxmaxwell9051]

Last year I chickened out heading west beyond my "comfort zone" of Texas. As I know no one it was a daunting feeling. My sister is in Oregon and I will be heading that way this April / May. Watching these videos has given me some viral courage and I now look forward to this new adventure (still somewhat skittish it gives me a new perspective).

[@joanhazelgrove9444]

Thanks, Bob, for such a great, informative video. I am already planning my trip to join the tribe (I love that word) next year. I have been tracking the weather so I know where I can go where it is not too hot or too cold, but I will also be flexible on the road. For me, it is fun planning out the basics ahead and takes out some stress. This will be my first extended trip on my own, so I look forward to meeting some people. The info you provided is so helpful.

[@FidoHouse]

Looking forward to this!!! Enjoying Ehrenberg and especially today's break in the heat. Good information, Bob. Collated it with maps from Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce so feeling more confident about where to go for the RTR....and have already met 3 people here who are also looking forward to it. We have enjoyed some great conversation. It's nice to not always feel others regard us as strange or eccentric for stepping away from the Race. Hope you're enjoying a lovely weekend.

[@stephenwalling5878]

I lived in Baghdad, az. For five or six years, on solar panels, batteries and a generator. And on the Navajo reservation for five or six years before that. I found homes for 235 dog's, 125 cats, and 1 rooster.

[@danothemano4129]

Thanks Bob for your genuine kindness and sharing your vast knowledge about our natural world. Just subscribed to your channel and just can't get enough of it! We have a few more years to go until retirement and hope to meet you someday soon!

[@elainejohnson3936]

I've been watching your videos for 6months and now planning a trip to Quartzite this coming January. This video was so incouraging! I can do this!!! Thanks!

[@valamonica]

Dear Bob, your channel and videos have given me the focus and courage I needed to ease into retirement. Am 65 and still working, bought a used RV, and will see you and the Tribe at the 2018 RTR. When I return to Los Angeles I'll put my Townhouse on the market, retire, and thereafter I'm on the road full time. Thank You 😎

[@opalcoastal-ld5kd]

Thanks Bob!!! Great video as always!! Looking forward to meeting everyone at the RTR!!

[@takayama1638]

I ain't nary tribe member. And, I come right up to you and start talking. Hey, we all humans. To meet people, just say, Hi. How you. Just talk. I never meet a stranger, unless they're rude. Respect, that's the ticket.

[@taylormohr5780]

I'm a huge fan! You have so much wisdom and experience. Thank you for sharing! I am currently in the military but will be separating in the next year. I am planning on going off grid and living the van life. I am looking forward to meeting the tribe!

[@barackmycat9448]

You sir are a kind human. Good luck to all. I wish I could join you..........

[@kathrynkenyon785]

Dear Bob, thanks for this video. I am so looking forward to meeting you and attending my first RTR. Just got home from the Van Build Party and it was a wonderful experience!

[@kellydoyle]

Thank you! For years I've watched van dwellers on KZbin never thinking I'd ever be one of them. Then boom!- My life turns upside down and suddenly I'm out here! Crazy! Thanks for the info!

[@Onlinesully]

Kelly Doyle How's it going out there kelly ?

[@justinfisher5175]

I’m so so glad Bob to find this lifestyle I bought my first minivan nothing fancy but I’m hoping to come to the next RTR!!!!

[@suzanpeters4709]

I'm researching alot these days, for I hope to live off grid F/T in about a year. Thank you, for your channel. You are #1!! I will be watching all of your video's. Xo Susan. I am also an introvert.

[@arlettewhite8046]

Hi Bob, watching your videos one thing stands out. You look so clean from your hair to your nails and that's terrific. Some people I've seen in these videos look grimy like they need a good bathing so I see that living out of doors, and on the road really has been good to you. I mean honestly, your hair looks wonderful and healthy. I think that might be a good video too--something along the lines of caring for yourself while RVing.

[@fabulousfoundations3507]

You just make it so welcoming !! What a wonderful guy u r :)

[@beelierver]

Thank you so much.... Very encouraging video... you are a true inspiration!!!!

[@jojowallace5098]

Bob, you nailed it....thanks expounding on this topic. Wish I could meet you and the tribe this year. Love, Jo.

[@nomadrvmontreal2733]

Thanks thanks THANKS for allllll those infos Bob, you have no idea how precious they are for me !

[@pjmartin6690]

I hope someday to meet you!!!! You have amazing social and management skills to organize this for years!!! You have made being a Nomad a positive option for so many!! I hope you are having a blast at the RTR!!!

[@gregorygiarrusso]

Dido, to all the kind words...184,000 strong now...8-9-2018 - My friends in our tribe: Please never mistake kindness for weakness...Bob your are the Father and maybe the Grandfather of Van Dwelling!! Keep up the great work!!!

[@carolinefreeebyrdacw13ly]

Thank you sir for another extremely informative video. I really do appreciate the time, commitment, and knowledge you contribute to this community/culture/life.

[@deevanlife4049]

Exactly!! Thank you covering this subject Bob.

[@tinysolarshack9615]

Hey Bob, great video. You answered some questions I hadn’t asked but was about to. 😂 thanks for reading my mind. This video is so important perhaps the most important of all the videos of your I have seen. I probably won’t be on the road “full time” until I turn 62 in 6 yrs, but I’m looking and planning ahead. This really helps! Thanks

[@janapr6425]

Thanks for the gentle way you explained how to integrate into the tribe. One of these days my husband and I will make our way to the RTR from the east coast and introduce ourselves to the gang!