I MOVED INTO A TRAILER PARK | Living In A Travel Trailer | Van Life

[@kellyjohnson3617]

I live in a mixed use trailer and Mobilehome park in Ventura. I love being here. Most people are here full time. My neighbor across from me is a snowbird so he lives over half the year here and half in Florida where his kids are. He has his site set up so nicely. I’ve been parked here about 18 yrs now. I can’t believe it. But it’s been nice having a stable place to call home.

[@albertshimelonis2009]

Take your time looking for a truck. Also get a pre-purchase inspection done by an independent shop. Your old truck still looks good to me and is less complicated and cheaper to maintain than a new diesel truck (which I don't recommend at all). Probably better off with a newer gas rig instead if you must change vehicles. Good luck. We always enjoy your Sunday videos.

[@nature10879]

Yeah diesel trucks especially the newer ones need more care, mm even older ones. I prefer gas as well but for heavy towing, a diesel is the way to go. The tundra 5.7 always looks attractive to me but it can't tow a lot. Dodge and ford gas powered are great too, newer ones though.

[@kensrealadventures9047]

I love how you are so good at explaining the pros and cons of living in your camper. Very helpful, I’m new to this lifestyle and have learned a lot from you!

[@Fancy1450]

I hope you can eventually find a piece of land for your home base. The peacefulness of quiet and solitude is priceless! We currently have a spot in an rv park, long term. I love being hooked up to water, power and sewage but it comes with a price. No privacy. Not to sound harsh, but when I’m there, I just want to chill or take care of chores, etc…the neighbors have school aged kids that are homeschooled, so they don’t have much interaction and they’ve taken a liking to me & my boyfriend. So anytime we’re outside, they’re right there asking questions 🤪. Sometimes I just need to get things done, ya know?! I’d love to just quit my job and travel full time, that’s definitely the plan for retirement, I know I shouldn’t wait bc you never know what will happen between now & then but that’s the goal. But I love seeing your videos on Sundays. ❤

[@chonkyb3134]

HAPPY THANKSGIVING and God Bless ❤

[@jennyfulcher8035]

Sounds like a smart move to move into a RV trailer park so that you can spend more hassle-free time with family. ❤

[@CheeseLayong]

Buying a piece of land and placing an RV on it to live full time is not that easy like some commenters suggest. Some ordinances only allow you to camp for 14 days a year on ur property. Check your local laws before buying a piece of land. You're better off buying a warehouse that your camper fits in. Privacy and security.

[@evalynlemon5045]

So true. Don't just assume you can do what you want because you own the land. Ordinances, zoning and land use laws vary widely from state to state.

[@krisg3984]

Where do you find a warehouse with open views ?!

[@gweger6425]

So true.. All it takes is 1 complaint from someone who sees it there. Everyone would opt for this simple solution otherwise.

[@nealamesbury7953]

I don't see buying your own land ,as a honest solution.

[@Seamus3051]

The greatest joy of being a nomad, being that if you are dissatisfied with your surroungings, you may, simply, move on. Stay well & safe. Cheers.😃😃

[@popeye8843]

Get yourself a fiberglass towable ie, casita, no leaks, no rot, no fuss!

[@michaelbales5602]

I spent 30 days in Patagonia. Rented a little camper van and went from Santiago Chile and drove to punta arenas where I dropped it off. I thought about much you would enjoy that adventure. Right up your alley, car camping, hiking, backpacking, new foods, etc... it was surprisingly affordable including air transportation. I did the same in New Zealand years ago.

[@conchscooter]

We’re retired driving South America in our Promaster and Patagonia is really wild and different even though the weather is equally wild unpredictable. It’s a great change from all the other countries we’ve driven through with open wilderness and summer is just starting…

[@TheMomentEnds1]

Travelled solo throughout Chile in 1997, from the Atacama desert all the way down to Punta Arenas. Things are just different in the southern hemisphere , would love to make it back some time!

[@jabreck1934]

For some people it’s about travel. for me it’s about finding Shangri-La. am a mobile prepper. 12 years full-time Travato 59K. In order to achieve my goal, I work as camp host at CA State beaches in order to make connections.(3yrs) Starting my third year parked on a 20 acre horse ranch in the hills above Santa Barbara,(with its own water well surrounded by national Forest) In exchange for taking care of seven horses I am provided everything. (zero debt and only monthly bill is phone) We provide riding lessons and equine therapy to special needs children and military veterans. This is the healthiest lifestyle I have ever had in 65 years…, mentally, physically and spiritually. Family… yes…. this location is is ideal for my children and grandchildren. (it’s their bug out location) Enjoy the journey!

[@MorganneLeighPhotos]

Happy holidays. As I've mentioned you before I have an ATC toy hauler 24 foot trailer. It's very good quality. I put it in a storage unit for 5 to 6 months between May and October and live in my Ford F150 super-crew four door 4x4 truck outfitted as a Overland vehicle I travel to 10 western states doing nature photography My Ford F150 is a 3.5 L V6 ecoboost which can tow up to 12,000 pounds although my trailer is about 8500 when it's full and loaded with water so your trailer would tow easily with this set up I'm 5 foot six and 114 pounds. I had all the seats removed and a platform built I'm able to sleep where the backseat was. I had a Maplewood box built where the passenger seat was, and there's enough room for me to squat and pee in the middle of the night. I love the convenience and safety of sleeping inside the vehicle. I have a 5.5 with a Lear camper shell and a truck vault slide out tray so I can reach all the containers in the back I have a second shelf with extruded aluminum bars I have a 37 quart freezer 1500 W power station and 800 W power station and two solar panels on the roof of the Lear camper shell that charge the power stations which charge the freezer I usually cook in my butane stove on the tailgate of the truck or a random picnic table With my set up, I don't have to pay anywhere to sleep by sleep VLM land neighborhoods parking lots five star resort anywhere I want no one knows I'm in the truck I traveled at 10 Western states do nature photography and have the convenience of moving quickly and going anywhere I want anytime following perfect weather Then I return to my trailer and October take it out of storage and bring it to Arizona for the winter I don't care for RV parks I'm in one for a few months during the winter in Yuma AZ to be warm and comfortable I wish you great success in finding your perfect truck and situation I think I found mine even though I don't like RV parks in the winter I Boondock for a couple months and then do the RV park for a couple months when it's cold windy and rainy My story about living in my Ford will be publishing OutdoorX4 Magazine in the January and February issues I hope something I shared is helpful to you Morganne

[@olliekane6463]

Cat, i bought a new chevy Silverado in 2002. It has over 350000 mi. I have boondocked in it, drove it to cali for work, my kids a used it. It needs a brake job. But i love my truck!!😂😂

[@bugsea54]

Im in a house and repairs are endless too, however i do them myself too. I dont get to travel much except weekends and inexpensive vacations. I do tent camping because i have small car and cant do rustic camping . So i have a lot of cons too. My pros a steady job and paycheck, organic gardening, building equity, and of course utilities like heat, water, and air. Now having said that if i lose my job and cant find another i will be on the road too. Thanks for your videos, i enjoy watching them

[@CheeseLayong]

Omg. Never buy from carmax. They have high prices, but I'm glad you got to return it.

[@jamesjameson2234]

I live in the desert on the outskirts of a small town. 2 1/2 hour drive to Big City. On a parcel big enough to keep neighbors a peaceful distance away. Water/Power/Septic. I am still close enough to visit family and get out of the city. Big relief. No gardeners or leaf blowers.

[@SmittyAZ]

I hate you!

[@johnnemery545]

I know what you mean. Back in the Navy days we called it dry dock, truckers and farmers call it overhaul. Ben Franklin called it a stitch in time saves nine. Whatever you call it, the repairs ain't gonna get cheaper so do it now. Good Luck, like your channel.

[@FiberTrek]

Catherine! Come to Maine! We live on the edge of Baxter State Park, my husband’s a ranger here..you can stay in our trailer😂😊we’ve been following along for a couple of years now, you’re a Sunday night ritual for us..whisky, woodstove and your adventures!! Fond wishes and happy trails. Ps we have an intech Sol Horizon…❤you really inspired us..

[@desertwaters_808]

I just love the logistics of it all...! As someone who has spent a lot of time on the road the past several years (I did over about 15 months without a legit home, just to see what it was like), it was very enjoyable to consider all the options and find flow about where to be when. Like you, the Eastern Sierra is always on the docket... and so many other beautiful spots I've found in California. I myself refuse to become a resident of CA but I spend a lot of time there because I love the land so much. You're so level-headed in how you decide to make your movements, I think that's really important so you don't feel like you're just out there being pushed around. Best of luck finding your next rig and cheers to more amazing adventures! 🥂

[@windybrown733]

Can’t wait to see what you get! Happy Holidays 😊

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

Happy holidays!

[@snowbirdlady7221]

Sounds like this is a perfect situation for you at the moment. Family time, break time, plenty of time to focus on finding the right vehicle and getting repairs taken care of. Enjoy the Boat Parade!

[@LoranPeterman]

Hope you have a great holiday time with family and get repaired and recharged for your upcoming adventures.

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

@@LoranPeterman thank you Loran!

[@DavidHaney1]

I stayed once in a RV trailer park for a short while. Other than access to the swimming pool and laundry room, I've found being stuck in one place not great. Even a 2 week camping time limit is too long for me. I like roaming around better, like 1 or 2 weeks at San Clemente State Beach, then 1 or 2 weeks at Skinner Lake in Temecula, or Paris Lake, or Palomar Mountain, or Yucaipa or Chino Parks, or Hemet Lake. There are an endless number of Federal, State, and County Parks, plus a massive amount of free BLM areas in southern California Between having a trailer, a RV, and a Van, I found my Van has the most pros vs cons, the most flexibility and the least hassle. Easiest to drive, park anywhere, virtually no advance planning where to park, least expensive to operate and repair. Our toy hauler trailer which we still use is great, and our old Winnebago RV was great, but hands down, my DIY custom camper Van has turned out to be the best all around rig. Its got almost 400k miles and if & when anything breaks, and everything always breaks, no matter if its old or new, its easy, fast, and cheap to fix. I'll never sell it. I drive it until the wheels fall off and just throw new ones on it. I've rebuilt the engine twice, the transmission three times, and at one time or another, have replaced just about every part once or twice. Its a GMC SAFARI VAN, getting 16 to 19 mpg, and it just runs & runs forever. For the past 7 or 8 years, I've been roaming around the 11 western states, always chasing the sun & good weather, so I'm usually in Southern California during the winter months where its always sunny & warm. I love staying in San Diego, San Clemente, Palm Springs, Malibu, Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach. There are so many great spots on the coast, and a lot of FREE dispersed camping and BLM areas in the desert. I usually come back to southern California in November or December and leave to stroll slowly north in April or May !!!

[@wempnerwanderings0612]

Tennessee is absolutely beautiful. There are great sites and amazing trails.

[@SnowboardJedi]

Tennessee and Kentucky summers and Winters suck... Much better year round weather out West

[@anncourter7715]

Tennessee is the best! Summer and fall are my favorites.

[@SnowboardJedi]

@@anncourter7715 You would be blown away by the Western states then! Tennessee is great but it's another level of awesome out West!

[@jennstuart2031]

Great next step. You have been talking about making changes. I also full timmed and eventually found a private campground where I own my own site to get off the road when I want and now also have a family place to land as needed. But I am still free to roam as needed as well! I wish you many more journeys. ❤

[@juliegiles334]

I love that you are giving yourself the flexibility to enjoy other options. Life is the journey! Wishing you a wonderful holiday season

[@z3r0trust]

It's good to change things up every so often and address concerns with our stuff. "Pay me now or pay me later" as the saying goes. Meaning, you can either take the time and money to repair something now or you'll end up paying in one way or another later either way. One way is less costlier than the other. Enjoy that quality time with your family.

[@tomkatusa912]

Time goes by too fast. I am glad you are settled for now. Family is precious and don’t look back.

[@nealhathaway2004]

You're still young Catherine. Lots of adventure ahead.

[@lynnemarieallan5013]

May your Holidays be filled with love, laughter and family. Hoping Joey is doing the same. And yes your truck is just a little tired, time for something new. Wish Chevy would sponsor you, what a thought. Blessings and Holiday wishes.

[@lyfandeth]

Thanks for the update. Enjoy your family time. No matter what you choose, I'm sure we'll all be curious to see what the new year brings.

[@sandrahoover3127]

Take care Catherine and enjoy the time with your family.

[@markmcla]

I think you will be happy wherever you stay because of your positive attitude. Btw, just in case you didn't know, Chantry Flats reopened recently. I hope to hike the Winter Creek Trail to Mt Wilson mid-week sometime in December. -And my suggestion for a summer adventure is for you to take your camping truck (not big trailer) to Mineral King!

[@elwoodblues9613]

I discovered Chantry Flats a few years before escaping this failing state. I *love* it! I don't know if the cabins are used full-time or as vacation spots, but it's such a peaceful spot with natural shade.

[@markmcla]

@@elwoodblues9613 I think many of the cabins burned down during the bobcat fire in 2020. But some Cabins must still be standing. I'll find out when I return. Also, from what I read, you have to arrive at Chantry Flats by 6AM on the weekends to get a parking spot. So I hope to hike mid week instead, and test my luck with arriving later. Maybe 8AM? 🙂

[@clarkleakins879]

Stationary for a brief time to reset in a safe location is wise. Maybe your trailer needs those wheels on the rear frame? Might have prevented the jack damage. Yes take time to be sure the next tow vehicle is the best investment for you. Reminder, every vehicle will have some time/thing that needs repair/attention. Reliability is the key factor. Low mileage, mechanically well cared for, dont be too concerned about style/design appearance. Think about a early 1980's Chevrolet/GMC truck restored/excellent condition. They will not have every new thing. But certainly easy to fix, very tough/reliable depending upon the model, not better MPG. Good quality will not be inexpensive. Consider a suburban type vehicle rather than a pickup truck? Enjoy the "hunt"! IMPORTANT: read and understand the recent court ruling about vehicle "lemon laws". Used vehicles on dealers lots may not be the best deal that they seem. CHEERS!

[@genev7855]

A full life is an adventure, and you are the poster child for that! In the end, it is within our struggles that memories are born. A new truck is a wise decision, use a family member to guide you. Establishing a " close to family" base camp is also wise decision. Your life compass is sound and it;s pointing you in the right directions.

[@MOTrav]

When you’re ready for a few acres of your own private land, you should look around Southern Utah. There is plenty of land out here in different stages of development. Keep planning and you’ll figure it all out.

[@mrakl3]

I'm sure that everyone who follows you - those who are stationary, living in one place - can relate to everything you describe here... How you've managed all these years to maintain such a good momentum while on the road is a strong tribute to your ingenuity and to the devotion you have to a life-style that all of us (me, at least) really admire... and yes, the nose we live in sucks. It's especially grotesque, given what you've become accustomed to over these years. Admiration, Catherine...

[@ljiljanamahmutagic6186]

Catherine,do what is the best for you! Only You! Do not rush into any truck investment. Narrow down your must haves and narrow down choices and take a look what people who own it have to say! Remember you are making a decision for the future. Some older,2019.-2022.models are better than new ones with new engines... ...and it was just enough to say..." my yearly check ups".. Good luck.

[@cyndib3587]

Two years ago, I got 3.5 off grid beautiful remote land with no neighbors in northern AZ. My 2018 TT is parked, skirted, wood stove there. Since getting mytruck bed shell 9 mo ago, I'm doing extended trips. Spent 6 wks boondocking around Duck Creek Village in southern Utah, including Blow Hard Mountain 😋 Right now, sitting in the rocky mountainous terrain, ALONE, between Bouse and Q, AZ for the perfect temps! My 2 dogs love the off leash exploring! (Btw, 400 watts solar on TT, 200 watts on bed shell.) Simple shell build out with a cargo hitched that holds 30 gal water bladder. Life is good!

[@industrialexitstrategist2022]

Solo empty nester. Full time RV Nomad since January 2019. I relate to your channel. Thank you for sharing your inspiration.

[@wh8085]

I noticed the little note from Mila , hanging in the trailer. Made me smile , that's sweet. Just what I have gleaned from watching the automotive channels that I watch on YT. Do your research before you buy a newer truck. They have a lot of problems , more than your older Chevy ! Ford trucks especially. The auto market is in a spiral right now and prices are coming down ,that's one good thing but they need to come down a lot more. I believe they will for a short term. Dealerships are having lots of trouble selling them so be patient and look in different areas , some areas are less affected , so far , but they are all feeling the bite . People just can't afford the crazy prices that have been in place the last few years . Good luck. Fwiw , I bought a new Ram 2500 Cummings 6.7L in 2016 . . . . knock on wood , I haven't had any problems except taking it in for the recall problems when I get the notice in the mail which were minor things that hadn't given trouble but the recall probably saved me from it. Good luck on your search ! You could probably have a new drive train set in that chevy for what you could buy a used , newer model . . . just a thought.

[@ClayLee-x1r]

Maybe consider a Chevy or ford full size van as a tow vehicle unless it has to be 4x4. Plenty of power to tow that trailer with a V8 and makes a great solo adventure vehicle

[@lynnb613]

Good for you Catherine! Enjoy the break from constant travel and the time with family and friends. Best wishes on finding the perfect tow vehicle for you.

[@JoeD.294.]

Good Morning Catherine. It makes sense to have your trailer stationary for a couple months just to save on wear & tear of always moving it. Have a Happy Thanksgiving !

[@barbaragarrison9133]

Happy Holidays, Catherine. Can't wait to see your new rig and the magnificent vistas that come with it.

[@blippacg]

I like your Springdale. It's a good size for traveling around. And I just moved into a trailer park (RV resort?). Kids are moving away for school and I'm not interested in maintaining a house or paying rent for an apartment. I'll buy again eventually but don't want to deal with it for now. This particular RV park is new with really nice amenities.

[@edwardhorvat2770]

Good morning Catherine we are longtime subscribers to your channel. We also have a 2003 Chevy Silverado Duramax diesel with the LS and automatic, but our vehicles are 2 Wheel Dr. I will continue putting Band-Aids on my truck. I have friends who have newer diesel pick up trucks and they keep saying how expensive it is to maintain the emissions on the newer diesels, always check engine lights. I’m glad you have someone that knows about tow vehicles to steer you in the right direction. I’m a retired truck driver and my last truck that I drove had that DEF fluid which was very expensive but I’m glad my company paid for itagain keep up your hard work. We love your videos and enjoy your holidays with your family and friends.

[@tracyk.8306]

Glad you found a temporary home base for the holidays. We full-timed for about 2.5 years but after having trailer woes, we decided to get a home base. We are in a park with a tiny home near Palm Springs. We have a new trailer that we tow with our GMC Sierra 2500. On the truck, we have a Four Wheel Camper Project M topper, which has a comfy bed, power, and lights. They start around 12-14K, I think. You can customize your camper and still use the truck bed for hauling stuff if you need to. FWC also has a shell model with heater, more like a truck camper with pop-up. Of course you've probably seen those on your travels. Happy holidays!

[@Pam_NV_Miller]

Sounds like a great choice for the holidays ... and California's rainy season. I miss SoCal (moved away). Hoping you find a good "new to you" vehicle in So Cal. Lots of nomads take time to do repairs and such, so just keep us updated... we understand the need to clean & do repairs in your home. 👋🏼 till the next video.

[@waynebucher5070]

2013 - 2019 Tundra 5.7litre,4x4 Check the reliability stats, both engine and transmission..... Keep your oil changed and it should last a long time. You may find something cheaper, but if you are sinking a ton of money into it it's not worth the headache. Good luck!

[@Mary-tj5qx]

You are such an inspiration, Catherine. Love your videos. Really great quality and you share a lot of great information for those of us planning to do something similar. Have a lovely time with your family!

[@madeleinerenteria2870]

I can see how living in a trailer park temporarily can allow you more freedom to just go places without having to worry about where your gonna park it. It also gives you more time to spend with family and friends for an extended period of time. Thanks for the update and Happy Thanksgiving Cat 😊

[@kiza4178]

Rest, refresh, repair! We all need a little time out.

[@johnjaco5544]

Watch all the you tube videos on problems with newer vehicles. It is super important you do your home work.Some have more problems than others.Good luck.

[@hdymn1925]

Hello Cathrine. First:If your truck's body & frame are in good shape why not consider a new engine and transmission ? Unfortunately your learning these newer campers are not put together very well. Anyway my wife and I enjoy watching your videos. We have followed you from. The beginning. I'm a self made person never buy new and a survivor. Take Care good luck to you. David & Kathy

[@sonja437]

So nice to experience the good morning chat with you. I’m glad that you get to visit family and have your home on wheels nearby to rest and recuperate. I know that Sedona AZ, is popular, but maybe not so crowded in Winter months. I would be interested in seeing hiking around there. I wish you and yours the best, and Happy Thanksgiving.

[@elwoodblues9613]

On the one hand, it's a convenient move. On the other hand, I've noticed with SoCal trailer parks, long-term rentals turn the place ghetto. I saw that with Travel Village near Magic Mountain and a defunct place just south of Pedoland - er, the Mouse Kingdom. Stay safe, Catherine, and leaving California was the best move I ever made! Hugs, and Happy Thanksgiving.

[@TheWanderingWulfs]

Good morning, Catherine! We'll be watching your video soon! ❤

[@Chimp_6]

My 2 cents ..... Get a 3/4 ton truck with a long bed if possible. Adventure rig - A pop top truck camper that fits to the end of the truck bed (no rear over hang). We had one for 25 years and never took it off (always ready to go)! They are fairly light so the 3/4 ton truck should be able to handle the camper and trailer together.

[@Starfish2145]

She already had a truck camper. A pop-up truck camper is not going to be warm enough in the winter.

[@gmv0553]

​warmer then what she has now! And the pop up truck capers have winter packages and have a heater, unlike a truck cap!@@Starfish2145

[@ericvanfleet9984]

I have been an auto mechanic for over 40 years, I would recommend that when you do find a truck that you take it to an auto shop and have them do a prepurchase. The dealer or private party doesn't want to then that should be a red flag.

[@johndagricola]

We are very part time and we have a trailer much like yours in length and construction. We take a few short trips each year and usually one long one (5-8k mi.). I know how to repair and maintain my rig and I spend a fair amount of time in my driveway fixing things that have broken on a trip. I can understand that you couldn’t keep up with the WORK involved if you’re constantly on the move. This sounds like a really great resting place for a little while😉

[@JABINVA]

If you ever want to make your way out to visit the East coast I have 57 acres surrounded by National Forest in the mountains of southwest Virginia. Total privacy but 15 minutes from all the major stores in town. I would be willing to reasonably rent space to park. I have outbuildings with power and water to park by. I have been considering putting Airbnb’s and potential rv sites on my property. Lots of hiking and other things in proximity. 15 minutes from where Dirty Dancing was filmed! 😆 Have a good holiday and safe travels!

[@GaryB94558]

I hope you have a nice Thanksgiving with your family. Family is very important

[@nkynightowl]

Great information for those considering this lifestyle! Of course you want to visit family over the holidays but still have your own place to come home too☺️ It sounds like exactly what you need! Hope you can relax a bit and take your time finding a new tow vehicle and repairing your home👍🏻😊✌🏻

[@hectorescobar7013]

Norco, CA, has lots of used/new truck dealerships and good mechanics. I speak from experience. Good luck and thanks for sharing your content.

[@Pam_NV_Miller]

The "Bob Wells - CheapRVLiving" bought a van in the Corona-Norco area ... and I use to live there & noticed all the trucks & vans for sale. 👍🏼

[@debrabalawajder2617]

Sounds like you have a good plan. I always enjoy your videos. Looking forward to what you finally end up with and your future adventures! Enjoy the holidays with your family!

[@joyces3550]

Great video Catherine! Very good thinking and planning! I don't, but many people need this kind of information desperately. Praying you will find the most perfect deal on the most fabulous tow vehicle you could have imagined. Praying all your physical exams turn out great. Happy Thanksgiving with family. Looking forward to your beautiful videos to come.

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

Thanks so much Joyce!

[@chriskeystoneadventures]

Your not alone with the poor construction of trailers my zinger light 18 ft. similar to yours began falling apart as well held by staples which needed re fastening with wood screws very bad for a 50 grand trailer up here in canada have a great day 👍👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌷🌷

[@chrisbuchanan1193]

Sounds like a good idea- winter is hard to travel, you can spend lots of time with your family and take your time finding a new truck with the help of family members. A friend of mine has a great set up with a place for their RV on a guys property. It's a large property and he has utilities for them but they have total privacy. This is in Georgia. You are going to find that kind of opportunity in less populated, less expensive area

[@jackiehorn3724]

I pretty much stay in a campground when I am on the road. Just to get my tanks good and rinsed out, really get a thorough shower. ( I have a shower in my class b, but the grey tank is so small, I can’t stay out as long, and have to carry more water , ). So I sponge bath, and wash my short hair in a basin. So getting into an rv park or state park or something like that with full hookups is important to me. I also do any minor food prep on that day. Getting ready for next week. I do a double check on my camper systems, and clean it out really good while in the park once a week. I now have a tiny studio mother in law one room apartment on some family property. As a home base. My van is down with major engine issues. Thankfully I think all will be covered under warranty. Because ten thousand dollars was an estimate I got. So I am doing some per diem work, and in early spring planning on being on the road again.

[@kenhuth1762]

Hi Cat, avoid turbo charged engines. Modern diesels are so expensive to repair. Used trucks have come down in price quite a bit recently so hopefully you find a good one. There are super light weight stand up truck caps out there which might be a good adventure option.

[@lynnemarieallan5013]

Merry Christmas Catherine

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

Wow! Thank you so much for the generous gift Lynn! A Merry Christmas to you too!

[@riskassure]

Been following your channel for a while… really enjoy it!! I know you did some videos of Hawaii a long time ago. I’d love to see more of that… but this time with doing more hiking and camping or RVing if possible.

[@thetravelingkittens1393]

Did something similar! I had an RV and sold it to buy a 34ft Jayco trailer to put in a park in Birch Bay WA near my mom. I’ve been here since May paying $500 a month plus utilities. Pretty good. But it’s winter and I am going to put trailer in storage for 95 a month. I bought a 2006 Town and Country van that has over 200k miles of it having work done to drive it to CA and AZ for winter. I’m getting the van ready to live in full time. I don’t have a truck to pull a trailer and don’t want to do that. I’d rather travel lighter in van but I do have a cat so will see how it goes. I have a motel 6 reserved at Xmas in Ventura as my son and wife live there. I too struggle with a permanent home. I’d like one and wish id had the means to buy a house outright before I retired but that would’ve meant working to 70! But this does give me freedom. I may even go to Europe this spring instead of putting trailer back in the park this summer. Thanks for sharing your story!

[@lulabelldesigns]

I can’t wait to see your new adventure rig and new adventures! Happy Thanksgiving!

[@lisapolanski9379]

You can fly nonstop to New Orleans in 3 hours from California on Southwest Airlines. You could then rent a car and explore the bayous.

[@dbkyhere9229]

❤May you have A Beautiful Thanksgiving with your loved ones Catherine !😊

[@Barnabas-r6k]

I’m glad you have a base camp so to speak while you look at options for trucks n travel locations.i hope yours find a reliable n safe rig ( definitely check for rust on undercarriage) if older vehicle. I’m glad you’ll be able to visit and spend time with your family and look forward to wherever you decide to adventure and whatever way you choose! Some of the vans are really nice n look forward to seeing your next adventure rig . Take care and have a great Thanksgiving! (Heather ) ❤

[@randywaller7685]

Catherine... good morning angel. Great video. I'm glad that you're considering a new tow vehicle. You've covered a lot of ground with your old truck. But three hundred thousand miles is quite a bit. Be vigilant with your decision. Have a great holiday with your family. Hope you get to eat some pecan pie. And your hair looks fantastic sweetheart. I love it. Be safe and have fun. Hope you can put up with the neighbors in your temporary home. See ya, bye. 🌹🎼

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

Thank you Randy!

[@bettyjorodgers8552]

Thank you for the update. Blessings

[@olddirtbiker5088]

Cat-one option to a diesel tow rig is a newish Ford f-250 4 wheel drive with the 7.3 liter Godzilla gas engine. I have a 2021 model with 29,000 miles and an extended warranty. The new diesels have higher maintenance costs than your old truck from what I hear. The aptly named Godzilla engine was designed to be sort of an alternative to a diesel for towing and there are many YT videos on it's towing ability. I no longer have an RV to tow but I have it set up to snowplow here in Colorado. My actual measured gas mileage is 17 MPG at 65 mph on a 100 mile trip not towing anything. Not crazy about all the electronics in the newer vehicles but that's life now in the future. Love what you do and your content.

[@lll-i4j]

Hi Catherine, I am in Texas and for many of the reasons you discussed on this morning‘s video I am actually interested in a camper van. Only one thing to maintain, and can park in a driveway still visit, but have my own space just a thought

[@marianfrances4959]

Sounds like a great set of choices, Catherine. We're with you.👍🇨🇦😎

[@texastwostep-js2gs]

Iceland is great to visit with a campervan. Many campervan companies over their to choose from.

[@MARKCANEER]

Good Sunday Morning 🌄 Thank You for sharing your travels again. Winter isn't far off now. Find a good place to stay Safe and Warm! Keep posting and I'll keep watching 🙏👍🐕‍🦺

[@johns1834]

Glad to see you settle down in one spot for awhile. At least for a little bit with winter coming right around the corner. Congrats.

[@marthabradas8873]

Very Smart , maintenance, preventative and repair are essential for safety and for economics. Stick built homes or mobile units of every kind need maintenance. And also our minds and bodies need time to engage in healthy maintenance. You are a pro in every sense of the word Catherine! Thank for sharing your knowledge as well as your adventures, you are so kind! Have a fabulous holiday season 🥰🥰

[@burncon2]

Sounds like a wise decision to pause, think and spend time near family. I towed with my built out Sprinter 4x4 and now my F-250 with an ikamper for roaming backcountry. That setup worked very well. Seasons determine where basecamp is and you can wander quite far. Consider an F-150 4x4 with the 3.5 ecoboost (great for those high passes) Maybe add overload springs (I did that also on a previous truck. No effect on empty ride but huge help with towing load and handling. Will be interested to see what you do next. Be safe!

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

@@burncon2 thank you Sid. The roof tent is something I’m considering.

[@burncon2]

@ they get a little noisy in high winds but otherwise work very well. A night of 50 mph winds at Deadhorse Point comes to mind 😉

[@ljiljanamahmutagic6186]

Cat, If you happen to look for a good investment RV the fiber glass is the only leak proff, for years to come investment for sure. Check out Cortez, small Oliver,older Casita and if lucky to find Snoozy ! Small but quality all the way. Our lunch time every Sunday starts with you and my other favourite " From She to me". Happy Holiday Season! Enjoy and be smart!❤

[@annsegler9189]

We have a truck with a Raised cap. Maybe this would be more roomy for your excursions when not using your rig. Can’t wait to see what you decide . Looking forward to Joey re-joining you. Your smile is brighter with him around 😎

[@desertschooner769]

A van would be my choice for the tow vehicle, also to go camping and exploring with only the van. I do this combo personally and now I'm old and we just stay home😁...enjoy your videos!!

[@maryhamilton2053]

My parents had a 31 ft MH. They would come to visit and stay in their rig in my driveway off to the side. It was really ideal. They would go off to their home outside after dinner time for some quiet private time and leave me to my quiet privacy and it was perfect. Their visit was always welcomed and it was less intrusive with their own rig. I’d forget they were out there sometimes. I do the same to go visit my daughter now. And it gives me a respite from the activity in the house. Ideal if they have the space. 👍

[@ShawnPatterson402]

All the best in your search for for new tow/adventure vehicle. I am sure you will find something that meets the need... and continued safe travels...

[@robertrhode6104]

Good Sunday morning to you Cat! How’s Joey? Is he still on his hike? So happy you’re getting to spend some time with your family for the holidays. I love the different looks you give us on your nomadic life style, so real and you always give me something to think about. You are such a treat to me as I sit here spinning my wheels, and my time goes by. I am much closer to the end than the beginning. Wishing you a great thanksgiving with your friends and family.😘 can’t wait to see what’s next for 2025. Your friend in Pennsylvania. Bob😘!

[@1020LAStep]

Will you go to Yellowstone National Park in the winter? And do cross country skiing? You said you wanted suggestions. ☺

[@user-hz7kv6js6l]

You are very wise not to share your location or information about the park. There are way too many unstable people/stalkers in this world. I would not have even mentioned that you are stationary right now. If someone figures out the town you are in, it wouldn't be difficult to locate all the RV parks in the town. I would not show photos of the outside of your camper either. Don't mention the fact that you may purchase land either. This may sound like paranoia, but recently, there was another female youtuber I won't mention her name that had been stalked by two different men. One came to her land to find her. It was a very scary and weid situation for her, causing her to vacate her property for safety reasons. Please be safe and have a blessed holiday with your family.

[@nealamesbury7953]

Just getting worse

[@gregorystinette8271]

In Amerika it's nearly impossible to own a piece of land that you can live as a minimalist because all institutions want you to be enslaved to debt ( mortgage & property taxes) not to mention no one can mind their own business & will always snitch you out.

[@franzperont5669]

Thanks for sharing. I was curious how much something like that costs. It's actually reasonable at least. Enjoy the holidays!

[@michellebentz3576]

Totally feel you being in the city. I take the toyhauler to Vegas for the holidays and it drives me batty lol! I love my family but can only tolerate a month of air & street traffic. Happy Thanksguving, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! Good luck finding the perfect fit Rig to go 👍

[@nickel19941]

I've seriously been thinking about buying land for my trailer as well (similar in set up to you size wise). Fortunately, when I do go home, my cousin has a piece of land where I park. I'm not ready to settle down again yet, though. I love the peace of the mountains, but ALL of the mountains so how do you choose just one?! Anyway, I think you found a great temporary option and wish you luck with your vehicle search! Happy T-Day and Merry Christmas!