I Crashed My Defender TWICE | Truck Camping Full Time

[@sodbuster518able]

Maria you should look into the big 3 truck stops TA Petro,Pilot Flying J and Loves get yourself there Rewards card for points and free showers with all your Diesel purchases. Just a thought worth looking into. Love your ch and what you do stay safe.

[@battshytkrazy156]

SHARP

[@patlsmith404]

Love those truck stops. Best coffee ever is Circle K! Let the good times roll!,🥰🐕🎣🚵🏻‍♀️🏕

[@CurtisDrew1]

Good Tip. I've used the truck stop showers for years before I bought a Class A RV and just started flat towing my 4x4 rig.

[@oscarsylvia]

It happens..."what happens?"...S*!t happens! Stay positive. You're living OUR dream.

[@Get_Knotted_Designs]

You can get cages for the lights I think...gives them some protection. As for the handbrake thing...well, I was taught to leave in a forward gear if you are nose up an incline, and in reverse if you are nose down, that way if the brake fails, or you forget...you don't roll far at all. Hope you get the parts soon though, I'm sure you'll get used to the dimensions now you're out there 🙂

[@saltyone8843]

Also turn your wheels

[@neilchilds7555]

Both are are correct

[@Get_Knotted_Designs]

@@saltyone8843 definitely, I remember my dad telling me that. Also seem to remember him telling me in his first van as an apprentice, he'd also have a brick or two in the back to use as chocks too...

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

Yeah definitely leave a defender in gear when parked.

[@GrannyGusBear]

@@Get_Knotted_Designs I have to use bricks😳

[@teresap.5991]

When my kids were 13 and 11, my first husband who passed away had bought a 47 willys Jeep and rebuild it top to bottom. That thing was made of solid steel and sure could pack a punch. Your vehicle reminds me of it just a larger version. Looks like solid steel and you would probably survive a crash with no problem LOL 😆‼️ thanks for a new video Maria I was looking for you a couple days. Give blue a hug for me please 💌😊💕🐕🐾🐾😍

[@livingwithbae]

When you almost ran over your camera I actually jumped 😂 love it!

[@roamingreckless]

I didn’t realize how close I got til I was editing 😂

[@amischair]

You’ve got a great community here, Maria. ❤ Don’t be too down on yourself for crashing Poe. Glad it wasn’t major damage. It happens and that’s how we learn. Hope Blue bubby starts feeling better. See ya soon!

[@umop3plsdn]

clicked on this soooo fast!! are you used to driving on the wrong side of the truck yet? Don't be so hard on yourself the neutral accident could have been MUCH worse Poe could have went down a hill or in a ditch or even worse! gotta look at the brightside at least

[@JOJO-ig1op]

i really enjoy taking these trips!!! ty for the invite!!!

[@themondem1792]

"To be expected when you're roaming reckless" 🤣

[@finallyawakened3350]

I've done what you've done when I first got my van. Happens to many so please don't feel bad. It's practically normal. How is Blue now? Love that little guy. I hope you get that sorted and he stops throwing up. Sending him love ❤️

[@deeannabrowning3464]

Why are you in such a hurry? I thought your purpose was to travel all states enjoying your life of travel, seeing what each state has to enjoy and taking us on the journey. Slow down, try to relax and enjoy your travels. Go back thru AR it's got lots of beautiful wilderness.

[@onmyway7363]

Rough roads Tear up your vehicle 😢

[@MOTH-PREPARDNESS]

Your smile is Electric

[@felinetherapy4782]

I find after you stuff up you tend to be so more aware and don't make more mistakes. So its worth the little things to avoid the big ones!

[@angeliekedwards2281]

New to your channel and I love your videos. You are doing great.😊

[@amandadownard7968]

When you're filling Poe do you let the pump just click off automatically or do you top it up after the click. The overspray could be from over filling if you continue to fill after the pump shut off automatically

[@TheRock-xj7hs]

Some days cherries, sometimes pits. You two are safe and Poe has been christened. Moving on…

[@landy531]

The worst is you having to run after your car 😆

[@RikRok-r7n]

I’m curious about something. You say it’s a 50 state road trip….well Alaska is not a problem, but Hawaii could be a bit of a challenge with the Pacific Ocean between California and Hawaii 😂. That’s what the dog said, “these last few days have Ben ruff!” 🤣

[@robned2442]

U Live, U Learn. That's Life. Sometimes it's a harsh wake up. What counts, is one learns from their mistakes.

[@stevestott1514]

Aw the Land Rover right hand drive learning curve . Keep up the positive thoughts and you will do awesome . Liked you showing the drive threw shots . Cheers from Steve Stott in Sutherlin Oregon U.S.A.:) 🐕:) 😁👍🏼

[@wyattoneable]

Minor damage to Po, major stress to self. I've been there myself and hope you are well on your way to repairs and positive adventures ahead.

[@r.mcmickens7349]

It just takes a while to get used to Poe. Everything is larger. You'll get used to it Maria. You are doing a great job.

[@kgsavedbyfaithgrace1603]

Well hopefully the worst is behind you now.. God bless you and yours and all my brothers and sisters! 😇

[@fireiswithinme]

One of the simple pleasures in life is being able to drive through puddles like a boss. Whenever I see a puddle, I just gotta. Poe is being broken in the Roaming Reckless way 😅. Great video!

[@jillwilliams3981]

I can’t get enough of your videos ❤ you look like Alanis morrisette ❤ your smile and personality are truly amazing and beautifully made ❤❤😊 stay safe ❤❤

[@binyamj]

I’ve seen people in rhd vehicles go through drive throughs. They go through in reverse. As long as you’re competent enough, it makes it so much easier.

[@Bunnybones87]

Damn 3am!? That’s hardcore lol I have been watching these vids all week at work, thanks for the company Maria

[@tamararummel2027]

I'm glad that you enjoyed the exploring the Arkansas Ozarks. You'll have to come back through when everything is green. It's really beautiful. I live in Central Arkansas and love the Northern part of the state myself.

[@chez099]

Omg. Smashed lights happen. Btdt more than once.similar circumstances too. It does kinda suck that you missed the Ozarks. Spent a lot of time camping and exploring in the Missouri Ozarks. If you can find a way to get back do it. One of the best places to be outdoors in the country.

[@kimthompson9194]

Maria oh so sorry to see that happened, yep life is just like that whether you're on the road or not unfortunately. Im happy its pretty minor and nobody got hurt! And thank you for sharing the good bad and the ugly, real life stuff, that's why we love you. Sending you and Blue (and Po!) Love and healing energy!

[@mikeydog1000]

I had the same issues with my dog, the vet said that he was lacking in some nutrients, you might want to take him in to the vet. All dogs are different but that's why is always wanted to suck on rocks.

[@lesbrown253]

I am a UK mechanic .it is a very easy job to convert from right-hand-drive to left-hand-drive on a land rover it will just unbolt and move over it will make your life a lot easier . love the channel

[@Crazy-s8s]

That bites about Po’s lights. It happens and fortunately it wasn’t any worse than it was. Hope blue gets to feeling better soon. Take care and safe travels 👍🏻😃

[@maggar56]

Maria, regarding Blue feeling sick. It could be the spray you used in the truck. They can be toxic to dogs. Also could be the kibble. Not sure what you used but if it’s blue buffalo, that stuff is really bad for dogs. Sorry not trying to be negative. Trying to help. I love your channel and adventures and your beautiful dog.

[@finallyawakened3350]

Agreed. Some or most of those sprays are really toxic. I can't stand them. Even the so called 'pure' ones.

[@peterdiebel7372]

Maria , stuff happens to all of us . I suggest a brush guard for the front with yellow fog lights , they work really well on dusty roads as well as fog. Keep on truckin Babe & Blue.

[@judithmitchell4667]

I know exactly what you mean about having to get used to the spatial relationships with Poe as well as driving on the right side and visual limitations. You will work it out. The important thing is that you, the lady, and Blue are all ok. This will be the first adventure story with Poe. That's it! You should do a written log of this trip and then make a book of it. You have a great expressive positive way of looking at things. It could be in the point of view of Blue. I would buy that in a heartbeat. Just an idea, my friend. Have a great day Maria. Blessings from Michigan - Judith 🎵🎭

[@JustMe-ye5cv]

Give yourself a break hon! It happens to the best of us. You do such an awesome job of everything. God bless and travel safe. ❤️❤️

[@JRods2]

Listen, if you never crashed your defender...you had no business owning one. Sometimes you just gotta send it and see what happens. You're a true roaming warrior now.

[@donnamarie5395]

Got my Maria RR fix! My black cat Sage is in love with Blue..lol....dramady at its finest! i laugh i cry ...its all i need. :)

[@Carol-vv5cm]

Stay safe Maria. I hope Blue is ok. Maybe he's stressed because you have been stressed. Fun to see you traveling again. You're one of my favorites.

[@tammyinman1699]

Girl you are so amazing! I’m 62 and I’d fall apart in some of your circumstances lol Love seeing you back on the road to 50 states. I hope you get a chance to come back to Arkansas! I’d love to meet you. Take care! Love you and Blue… hugs and prayers ❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@femalesoliderforjc1970]

I would get a rearview camera that would be a very smart thing to do👍

[@Northanteus]

Maybe look into buying a backup camera! 😁 A dash cam is also good to have. Never know when you'll need it in an accident!

[@Sunsetschano]

You could always go thru the drive thru backwards, Lol

[@grendle81]

Ha! Maria you're a goof. Yes you need a back up camera. It's a game changer.

[@grendle81]

@@user_abcxyzz I was going to insult you back but then I saw your name. I don't need to.

[@dmcresins]

i feel so bad for you. You must be gutted. I think it's the only time I've seen you almost defeated, in the sense you are always upbeat and positive. I feel your pain, I put my Honda on its roof last week. That was bad enough, if it was your awesome machine, Poe... I would be REALLY PISSED. Most importantly. You, Blue, or anyone else were not hurt in the making of this video. Any vehicles can be fixed or replaced. I'm glad you two are OK. The intro was like, wtf happened??@!!! Noooooo!! We do worry about you even though you're more than capable of looking after yourself. Take care ☘️

[@Krystof.Veritae]

Nice Rig \_/ just got back from Ozarks last week…. Cool trails and water crossings wasn’t to bad or snowy….. following Matt with Ozarks Overland lots of cool trail info there

[@jasonsandifer3250]

I have noticed that many vehicle dwellers, RV, campers, car lifestylers, have a Safety concern about people approaching their vehicles when they are sleeping, or just inside of their vehicle. To assist with your Awareness for your vehicle, There may Be the option to utilize and install a camera system outside of your vehicle. How to Do this... There are RV backup camera systems available including online including Amazon Some systems include 1 or multiple cameras in a set, about 4 and may include a visual display monitor. Some of these Backup camera systems include this separate video display monitor, to view all of the installed cameras, and some of these monitors include various multiple functions, including a recording feature, dvr type functions and touch screen display, among other functions. Your cameras can Be utilized to view around your entire vehicle, including front, rear and sides. The cost I have seen has been around low 2 hundred and mid 3 hundreds, prices may vary. I have actually seen this shown online where the system was installed and a entire 360 degree view was available on a RV. Please Do your own research on the Best options for you. Hope this information may Be Helpful. God’s Blessings to you, and your viewing audience. Safe, Happy Travels Author Advocate, Activist for Humanity, Jason Sandifer, Michigan, 4/18/2023

[@RonsWorld5]

Yep! We all make mistakes. I have a long list of them. I applaud 👏your attitude in handling adversity.

[@jaluswarrior6418]

You could always try to go through the drive thru backwards, problem solved.😆

[@gilbertquintanar7160]

Maria, these things happen in life, and we learn from our mistakes and press on with life. I love your positive attitude and your amazing sense of humor. I am looking forward to you hitting two of my favorite states New Mexico and California. Thank goodness Po is indestructible. I look forward to your next video. Please be Safe and Well. .

[@ashIeymarie]

Hoping blue feels better soon or has started to feel better by the time we all watched this! Don't stress too much over the crashes, you're learning and you're evolving like a roadtrip pokemon and it's challenging but incredibly fun I imagine! You got this!

[@belindacarinaboco6410]

Hey Maria and Blue...happy driving...crashing is part of driving sometimes...

[@dannydaugherty527]

keep your head up things like this happen just remember stress does no favors to anyone, I'm going through some health issues and enjoy watching your videos and try to use humor to help keep my spirits up and I know you can do it too

[@Maru-wl7ud]

I hope you get better!

[@ckhorrordict5851]

Hey. New to the channel and enjoying all the videos. hope you enjoyed my home state. don't know if you've been to Hot Springs or not. beautiful area and historic

[@bottletop101]

The saying "you wait ages for a bus, then two come along at once" sounds a perfect analogy for your bumps. Anyway, no one was injured so it's all good. Great channel.

[@RolandoNispiros]

Oh hope that temp fix helps. You got this 🙏🏽

[@geridabooyens5910]

You can buy steel covers for your Defender’s lights. It is almost like a “cage cover” that goes over them. I have on all of my Defender’s lights.

[@jillwalls9330]

Definitely look into those metal cage things that go over the lights to protect them and I would definitely instal a backup camera. My son put one on his car and it just went over his license plate and you couldn’t even tell it was there. Kids are so spoiled they can’t drive without them. They can’t use their mirrors. Anyways it would all help in a big beast of a vehicle like that. 😊

[@Veteran22out]

Maria and blue be safe we are your youtube family love watching the videos

[@treelimbtlc]

Glad Poe is okay and sorry for the "bumps". Hope Blue feels better soon. You stress me out watching you tap the gas pump on your gas tank. Your tapping metal on metal and could cause a spark and light that gasoline up. Try not to tap it. Just hold it a sec and pull it out of the tank. At least that is what my Dad taught me. So happy to see you back out on the road. Keep it up girl!

[@troykajun]

Hi Maria & Blue. Your drive thru experience was great. I think it would be funny if you drove in reverse next time! Ha Ha. BTW, they make a drop step bumper that attaches to your rig. It would protect your lights from those trees that sneak up on you! Thanks for sharing. 🌲

[@katelyn371]

Girl you were in a small car for years. Of course being in this big tank of a car would have set backs. Glad you and blue are okay! I hope he feels better and don't worry, you'll get used to Po!!

[@edwil111]

X-actly!

[@robertnachtsheim3594]

Ps. Be super careful getting Blue into and out of Poe. I once was in a hurry and accidentally clipped my dogs tail in the door,Ouch! Yes, an instant regret.

[@alexanderweaver7066]

Getting to know your vehicle, it's quirks, the negatives and positives, will take time and experience. It took me a couple weeks with my GMC Savana cargo van. Now we are a team and she takes good care of me and I reciprocate. I just finished an adventure and everything ran like clockwork.

[@seandadon4884]

You are roaming but… You’re definitely not reckless 😮

[@ItStartsWithYou2Day]

You definitely should get a backup camera and side view cameras, plus have a additional monitor in the back and you can use them as security cameras. I'm sure there's diy vids and products shown on YT by other van dwellers.

[@jonryan5339]

Poe will survive and so will you. Getting a backup camera would be a great investment. Good luck

[@Stealthnomad007]

You have a wonderful attitude. Even with 2 wrecks, you march on! Good video, thanks for the "good, bad and ugly" of van life.

[@tonyh4528]

Hi Maria, I Just Wanted To Mention That Your Buddy Heater Should Have 2 Slots On The Back That Are Made To Be Hung Onto 2 Screws Which Will Keep It Safe As You Drive By Having The Screws Stick Out Just Enough To Slip The Heater Slots On The Screws And Push It Down Snug So It Stays Safely In Place. If You Have A Space To Put It Against The Back Door Or Your Side Shelving Where You Can Put 2 Screws Almost Tight So There Is Just Enough Space For The Slotted Grooves On The Buddy Heater To Slip Onto And Push It Down So The Heater Stays Safely In Place And You Can Fold The Handle Down So It Doesn't Get To Hot As Well. That Is How I Store And Use Mine. I Would Recommend Though That You Have A Diesel Heater Put In As That Will Give You Nice Dry Heat and Will Run On A Small Dual Battery That'll Be Isolated, Yet Charges As You Run And Drive Poe.. Hope That Helps, Stay Safe & Warm !

[@felixcat9455]

I accidentally left my car in neutral when parked at a gas station and I saw it start to roll backwards. Crashed into a gas pump and fuel begin leaking everywhere. Was pretty terrifying 😮

[@jessiegirl4ever]

Glad you lived to tell.

[@audrey136]

I gotta give you lots of credit for being able to leave the tire on your hood. I would have been distracted right away and hit something 😂

[@audrey136]

Also, when I used to drive manual back in the day, I always put it in reverse when I would park it? That’s what they taught me. Just a suggestion? Happy travels

[@meggggg]

Okay that was my very first thought as soon as the video started lol there is noooo way I could leave the tire there, it's all I'd ever look at!!

[@ThiaTruth]

Thank goodness nobody got hurt. Safe travels sweetie ✌

[@VanWestBrookMusicStudio]

Don't feel bad about leaving your car in neutral, I did the exact same thing to my Honda van. Left it in neutral without the brake and it rolled and backed into a pole while I was in auto zone too. The exact same thing. I noticed we have had a lot of similar adventures. We like a lot of the same foods too. Cool! 😁

[@thereseshine7506]

Glad you and Blue are okay, though, and the woman you hit.

[@skyblue2636]

Look what you started. There was a few girls with dogs and vans (or subarus) that they have named, traveling around camping and going to scenic places and videoing the ups and downs of being a lone girl who lives out of her vehicle, editing and posting on YT. The thing that makes me sub is that you mostly have bubbly, happy personalities. And the gift of gab.:D But now there's a plethora of yous, an epidemic in the USA and the UK, even a girl who named her van Gloria.:) (not that there's anything wrong with that) I respect girls who are strong minded and independent, and cheerful, so I sub and wish you the best on your journeys. When I see you have a new vid out, I feel better. That dog of yours is a real love puppy, and you treat it so good.

[@Leon-uj7pc]

Actually the best way to go into a drive thru is to back up through it so that you are on the side of the order/payment window. It is actually much easier then one thinks since most drive thru are set up so a driver has to go slow through it. I used to go through them with my Toyota Century (Japanese market full size luxury car)that way. As I tended to go to the same exact restaurant drive thrus all the time, it stopped being a shock to the staff quickly. Just remember that if you do this at night, only have the running lights on and no headlights or else the person behind you will not be happy.

[@philgibbons7108]

Keep your head high as these things happen 👍 You can buy metal protectors for the rear lights which are inexpensive from e-bay.You will get used to the size of the truck 👍

[@rokasrerroca7399]

Sometimes the locking mechanism on a gas tank cap can cause a small space between the cap and the lip of the gas tank. Might explain diesel spray; also, generally no one should overfill a gas tank. It's a learning curve; keep smiling...you're going great!

[@lukegonzalez7750]

Almost ran over your camera there, glad everything is well! Keep grinding! Love the vids!

[@aniellove]

I wonder if Blue is having a bit of motion sickness. Poe is a very different ride than the Ru-ster in noise and ride quality. Just a thought. Whatever it is, hopefully his tummy will soon settle.

[@mattwags4521]

Wow so cool. Nothing like that in New Zealand where I live. Love watching your adventure , Save travels

[@streetwork5069]

I saw the rover and clicked,I once traveled around in a 1970 ex mod series 2a military ambulance. Miss that truck dearly..

[@carlsadventures2361]

You'll be fine don't worry about the dents and scrapes you'll get on Po as these Landy's are tough as old boots

[@SuperMegaWoofer3000]

Here in Australia the 'Landrover Defender' is the 'Landcruiser 70 series', and there are many stories of the handbrake not holding the truck. One ended up in a river only a week ago here due to 'trusting the handbrake'. They just don't hold! If you're parked on a steep incline or decline it might even be worth chocking the wheels.

[@richardsracingmad]

You can get light guards….check it out. They are metal, kind of like a gate style.

[@daveb3855]

👍👍👍 You’re SO lucky. I’m a die hart Toyota guy but If I could find a way to buy a Defender I would in a heart beat. Best vehicle in the history of motorized transport! 👍👍👍

[@anthonykellum9501]

Your getting used to a totally new setup maria. Poor baby, good thing you are a Roaming Reckless Warrior !! 💘

[@AnomaLeOverT.I.M.E]

Crashed but still wreck-less Things aren't completely ruined, not wrecked Now, you know how to move better Safety checked Cold coffee, Chitown cap and an inquisitive Blu Life on the road, learning as you go, Keep you, you 💚💚💚💚💚

[@RigiLiquid945]

You can for sure get a backup camera for not a lot of money, and maybe if you can get a custom bumper extension that sticks out as far as the ladder to protect the lights and provides a step to get into the back door. Also, it seems like you should have a cover for your spare tire on the bonnet to protect from the sun.

[@northwestitude]

Maria LOL!!!!! I haven’t watched yet I’ve just read the title, seriously hope everything’s ok 🤍

[@ShannonLeeAcoustic2112]

Awwww, Maria. I feel for you!! Things will get better. You're still learning a very new and BIG vehicle.

[@sukottora]

A few tips that may be of help from someone who has owned and driven Defenders for over 18 years.. When you park, always leave it in gear. It won't roll away if you forget the handbrake or the handbrake skips (As they do). I wouldn't bother carrying the alternator and starter with you - there is just no point. I have never had either of these fail. Sod's law says that if something fails, it will not be something you have with you anyway. Remember, people travel the world in their Defenders and only take a few tools and common parts and service items. Carry a pack of zip ties, a roll of electrical tape, a handful of fuses, a little emery cloth... and a basic tool kit. I have mine in a leather roll I keep under the seat. Almost every electrical problem on a defender of that age will be down to oxidation of the copper connectors.. it is a natural chemical process that happens after a few years and it can kill your electrical systems. A little polish of the oxidized parts with the emery cloth and all will be well again. Get used to using your door mirrors as truck drivers do. You will soon get used to the size of things and will be able to judge width and distance with great accuracy. I have driven left, and right-hand drive vehicles everywhere from Scotland to Malaysia, Canada to Mexico, and it will help you get used to the size of your vehicle very quickly. And finally, Service your Defender regularly. Keep an eye on the brake callipers universal joints and of course engine fluids. Those old engines can lose oil very quickly. Have fun! Today's adventure is tomorrow's cool story, and life goes by very quickly.

[@gasdorficmuncher9943]

RIGHT handed drive threw horrors ? image the unspeakable nightmares of ordering drive threw food

[@jillmiller5134]

Backing into trees in the forest...been that, done there. So far only dents to show for it but I'm more cautious now and my 7 point turns are epic!

[@SandySellards]

I think I'd crash too with the tire on the hood and steering wheel on wrong side😬I would look into mounting on the back..cant wait to see all the traveling you are going to do..stay safe out there!

[@jfinke373]

Great way to look at things. I totally jive with the way you feel. It is hard. You are smart, you are wise. Shit happens, all you can do is learn . Silly stuff.. shake it offf an keep on. Many loves.

[@Stevenwyattcsdar]

If you ever make it back to Arkansas , I would be glad to show some of the highlights in the Ozarks you missed. Enjoy your channel and keep Blue safe .

[@tonyzam66]

Can you install sensors and/or backup camera on Poe so when you're about it hit something it will beep or at the very least, you'll be able to see whatever is back there? Glad to hear no one was seriously injured or damaged bad!

[@JaneDoe-ov1hb]

Ohhhh, Noooo!! I sure hope that Blue is OK and not sick!😰 I'm sorry about your crashes but being in such a larger vehicle will just take some getting used to! 😱 So awkward at the drive thru but you handled it well!!