This is the BIGGEST Threat to RV Boondocking

Free camping sites are shutting down! This week, we discuss the 9 rules of boondocking etiquette while traveling to our next spot in southeast Utah. We also drive through Monument Valley (and share our unpopular opinions about it) and end with a surprise discovery courtesy of our rescue pup, Trinity.
JOIN THE ALASKA POSCARD CLUB ⤵️
★ Sign Up Here: openroading.com/postcardclub
BOONDOCKING LINKS ⤵️
★ Our Boondocking Essentials: amzn.to/3VSnbQe
★ Harvest Hosts/Boondockers Welcome (Save 15% on a Membership): gr3f.co/c/53807/18w5v
★ Campendium: www.campendium.com/
WATCH THESE NEXT ⤵️
🍿 Free Camping is NOT Guaranteed: • Free Camping is NOT Gu...
🍿 Our RV DIY Decal Project: • DIY RV Decals Replacem...
🍿 Is RV Life Dangerous? Trip to Mexico: • Is RV Life UNSAFE? Mex...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
00:00 Who are Joe & Kalyn
00:42 Change of Travel Day Plans
05:04 Free Boondocking Spots are Going Away
08:40 Bisti Badlands
13:09 This is Illegal (& Gross)
20:12 Boondocking & Generators
23:13 Foot Bridge Road Dispersed
27:37 Forrest Gump Point
29:05 Monument Valley Scenic Drive
33:59 Trinity Escapes!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hey there! We're Joe + Kalyn!
As online entrepreneurs, we thought, "why not work from home... on the road"? So in 2019, we bought and renovated a 2005 Jayco Designer Fifth Wheel, which took us to every state in the lower 48. But the economy hit our business especially hard after the 'vid, spurring us to pivot in new directions and try different strategies, including various RV work camping jobs!
Follow our full-time RV Life journey as we build back our bank accounts in order to fund the biggest RV trip of our lifetime-Alaska.
WE SEND ONLY FUN STUFF ⤵️
bit.ly/OpenRoadingUpdates
REAL-TIME UPDATES + STORIES FROM FULL-TIME TRAVEL ⤵️
/ openroading
We participate in several affiliate programs. If you make a purchase through any of our links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!

[@OpenRoading]

Follow us on Instagram for more real time updates! ➡ instagram.com/openroading

[@cynthiaogrey4330]

Do not use Instagram

[@OpenRoading]

@@cynthiaogrey4330 Then don't follow us there! 😁 -J

[@cynthiaogrey4330]

@@OpenRoading HAHAHA 😂. So you will keep showing the same things on fb as you do on instagram????

[@OpenRoading]

@@cynthiaogrey4330 I think the stuff we post on IG automatically goes on FB. But we don't actively respond to comments or anything on Facebook. Too many platforms to maintain. 😁 So we are active here on YT comments and Instagram when it comes to interacting! -J

[@pdzh]

I live in Custer country SD, When I was moving here for work, I lived in my SUV and cargo trailer for 4 months while looking for a place to live in, its hard with that because of empty houses reserved for AirBnBs for seasonal rental. So I parked on a county road "almost" rest area. its like a large pull of the road that is totally separated from the road, but its not designated as a rest area, just open paved area. anyways, one of the nights I was woken up by state trooper, he said camping is not allowed there. I asked him if he remembered what that place looked like a week ago, he said yes, so I told him to look around again. he did, and he was like, what are you talking about, I then explained that I took about 40 bags of 33 gallon trash bags of garbage to the dump, last few day, cleaning this area up. I then Explained that I understand that they don't want campers there because of trash, but I was more than willing to stop by their statin or forest rangers and get a permit or agreement. next day after my shift at work, I went to the forest ranger station, started talking about the location. the ranger at the front desk was like, wait, that was you who cleaned up there? I thought it was a local YMCA. then I explained him what my situation was and he was like "hold on". he called someone, an old man came owner, who was some kind of boss there. he is like, "this guy"? -yeap!. so after some pleasantries he is like, "camp all you want, also let me get your plates and name so I can tell cops to leave you alone, I will tell them you are one of us" and he did. a year later I was stopped for speeding and cop ran my name, comes back and says, "why didn't you say you are one of us?" lol, they really put me in a system as one of cops, but to be fair I am actually now working on becoming a deputy reserve for assistance to them when they need extra people. so yes, stay good and hopefully we can turn camping community into a better picture from others point of view.

[@OpenRoading]

I LOVE THIS STORY!!! ALL OF THIS. I'm literally tearing up right now not just because of you, but because the people around you didn't just pass you off but took time to see that you were benefiting the community. THANK YOU for doing all of that and THANK YOU for sharing. -J

[@pdzh]

@@OpenRoading thank you. Yes I am trying to be a part of community

[@NayaStone_AWAKE]

Such an awesome story!

[@Hammer-jt6bz]

What a sad statement of what our society has become that you feel compelled to make a video about being polite and respectful. Great video and really liked the way it was presented. Hopefully it makes an impact. Have a great day.

[@OpenRoading]

It's true. Almost all of this stuff is just common sense type stuff...but I'm afraid we have a generation or two (my own included) that either wasn't taught it, or had just decided the message is for someone else and not them. -J

[@cathyjay2569]

Okay, this is just the opinion of an old widowed lady who lives in a fifth wheel with two pups. But, I THINK TRINITY COMPLETES YOU!!! What an amazing, beautiful addition to two amazing, beautiful people! Dogs are always worth the effort, time and money.❤TN Nana

[@OpenRoading]

Trinity has been such a blessing to our family. She may blast through some screens, have an independent streak, and take up too much room on the furniture...but she's where she belongs. And we got the better end of the deal. -J

[@cathyjay2569]

@@OpenRoading I just love watching her live her best life! Bunnies have a special place in my heart as well. I raised show rabbits back in the late 60s and early 70s. My favorite was a blue and white huge girl who won some blue ribbons for me at the fair. What sweet animals!

[@OpenRoading]

@@cathyjay2569 We do too. We were on a short "hike" today in some snow and just watching her have a blast running through the snow brought us so much joy. -J

[@user-zp8sp4hj3d]

Loved watching Trinity play in the maze. Forgive her for the door, she just wanted to come out and play with you both.

[@OpenRoading]

Haha - of course she's forgiven. She runs the place. -J

[@KarenGregory-ks8qz]

50ish years ago my folks joined NCHA which is the National Campers and Hikers Assoc. Even back then our motto was to always leave the place cleaner than you found it. I miss those days.

[@OpenRoading]

We've lost a lot of common respect over the years. -J

[@donjohnson2926]

That poor girl finally found a loving home and has separation anxiety now and trying to make sure you didn't just leave her like the last people ... she might also see that little bed as a temporary thing but the couch as a more permanent place to sleep. She's so happy now she has a family to protect and that loves and keeps her comfortable. What a beautiful creature. I live fulltime in my RV in a year round campground that has a lot of transient traffic here in Florida and I can't tell you how much it annoys me that complete strangers will just walk around my camper as if they belong right up in my grill. arrrgggg ... that and the dust storm that swirls by because they can't come off the paved road onto the limerock/dirt road and slow down to the posted 5mph. It's hard to not see an idiot as the idiot they portray themselves to be.

[@OpenRoading]

She's actually quite good on the anxiety front. We've left her in the RV for a while and she usually just sleeps the time away. Never chews on anything or goes crazy. I think it was different this time because we were visibly doing stuff outside....and she wanted to do stuff outside. 😂 And yeah - people walking through campsites...I just do not get it. It's like they think the personal space ends at your four walls. -J

[@eddiehagler6127]

Video idea for you. A video from the dog’s perspective. Trinity is a very lucky dog to be adopted by a young active couple that loves to travel. She gets to go so many places But doing a video for those who love to travel with their dogs would be a great area to cover.

[@OpenRoading]

Maybe someday! -J

[@alcoa1489]

I definitely have to say you guys are certainly "hitting your stride". Your energy is real and sincere. I really like your editing. You certainly don't make this appear that you have to work at creating a very entertaining video. Your message is so sensible, but, unfortunately, needs to be said. It's always the 1% who wreck things for the rest of us! Great job on this video. Safe travels. My son and I road our Harleys to Monument Valley from Wisc. in 2018 and stayed in Bluff. Loved every mile of that area. Safe travels!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! I so appreciate you taking the time to encourage us and I love that we make it look like it's not hard work. 😂 That's the goal! Now I won't tell you that I was up till 2am on Wednesday and 1am on Thursday finishing this one off. 😂😂😂😂😂😂 You are dead on with the 1% although I'm afraid that percentage is growing. We've been traveling now for 5 years and it seems like the problem is getting worse and not better. 👀 -J

[@TomPolifka]

Whenever I’m about to do something I think “would an idiot do that thing, and if they would I don’t do that thing” Always funny and entertaining you guys 😅

[@OpenRoading]

Dwight Schrute advice for the win! 😂 -J

[@aflyr]

Common courtesy/sense, not so common anymore but a good summary of respectful boondocking. Great video, keep them coming!

[@OpenRoading]

It's true. Common should probably simply be dropped from the phrase unfortunately. -J

[@CatMurray]

Trinity running to her said “yelling, I’m free!”

[@OpenRoading]

FREEEEEEEEEEEE 😁 -J

[@traci635]

Trinity was so proud of herself 😂 thank you for sharing another beautiful trip, plus all of those common sense tips that people tend to forget when they camp. Safe travels, can't wait for your next video😊 hopefully you have Trinity's DNA results by then, so many of us are waiting to see what she is 😅

[@OpenRoading]

I can confirm...Trinitys DNA results are in the next video. They are....surprising. -J

[@sherylspiller6003]

I love how you advocate for the respect of our beautiful natural resources. Love seeing Trinity and Cody!

[@OpenRoading]

They're here for us to enjoy not destroy! 😁 -J

[@shirleyharvey7376]

When boondocking, we save our dishwater in a bucket for the day and use that to put out the fire at night. Saves grey tank storage and fresh water. We put a screen door metal screen protector on our door when the grands were little. Cheep, simple from Lowes.

[@OpenRoading]

Awesome way to conserve your water! We checked out some metal at Ace hardware but it was more than we wanted to pay for a DIY option - however - we haven't looked at lowes yet! -J

[@7018bluegrass]

I love that you guys take great care of your pets... your vehicle & R V. Also the way you gently remind people to respect the areas they camp in. Pack in Pack out.

[@OpenRoading]

Ok... Craig from WildRVLife better not be drinking anything when he sees someone say I take good care of my vehicle....because if he does he's going to spit it out over his laptop. 😂 I'm trying to do better on that end. But the pets!! They rule the place. -J

[@Dana-.-]

There are metal screens for pets that you can attach to your screen door for pets like your good girl! Another great video y’all!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks for the tip! We've been looking into them because the last thing I need to do is replace the screen every 2 months 😂 -J

[@thinkingcloset]

Another awesome video! I love all your movie clips and soundbites… and the music in this one was 🔥! But the very best of course is Joseph, Kalyn, Trin, and Cody. Thanks for sharing from the heart-even with the sass-for the sake of being good stewards of what we’ve been given. ❤❤❤

[@OpenRoading]

I'm so sorry we don't have more videos for today's binge! 👀 I'm afraid you've caught up to us. lol. -J

[@mikeweis5925]

Loved your sassiness. Very good messaging. It’s sad to see the results of unthoughtful people. Don’t be too hard on Trinity. She just loves to be with you and acts out of natural instincts. 😂

[@OpenRoading]

Haha! We weren't hard on her. She's too cute to be mad at. -J

[@earlscheets7550]

Awesome again, hey if you stop by a Harbor Freight tool store, you can pick up a cordless 3/8 impact and a socket, that makes raising and lowering the trailer jacks much faster and easier.

[@OpenRoading]

haha! Right?! 5 years of doing it this way. Can you believe it?! -J

[@TravelingonAdventures]

Some great tips for everybody. It makes me sad when I see people abusing our camping places.

[@OpenRoading]

It seems to be getting worse unfortunately. -J

[@RVingwithLuck]

Being a full-timer RV’er, 99% of the time boondocking, I 100% agree with all 9 of your topics. I loathe litterbugs. Soooo much. The second is getting dusted out. Great video.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! -J

[@mum2jka]

Forget the gross aspect of not following the rules of burying poop, it is a serious health hazard and a common way for potentially dangerous diseases to spread.

[@OpenRoading]

Oh for sure!! Although I have a nephew that literally played in raw sewage once as a toddler (true story) and I'm pretty sure he's going to grow up to have superpowers. 😂 -J

[@mum2jka]

@@OpenRoading 😂

[@PlanetEarth3141]

We have enough silly Avenger characters. Poop Man isn't needed. 😅😅

[@OpenRoading]

@@PlanetEarth3141 LOL. Captain Crap? Super Septic? The Great BM? 😂(I probably shouldn't be responding to comments this late at night) -J

[@MyBackyardScience]

Some people are just pigs! You kept it family-friendly by using the word "idiot"! Anyway, it was great how you combined the advice with the awesome scenery of the parks you explored! And Trinity now owns the couch! We have two couches 🛋 in our living room, and we call one of them Max's couch! 😅 🐩 She wanted to be with you guys so much that she went right through the door! ❤ 😀

[@OpenRoading]

Family friendly is our MO! We felt like we were on the edge by saying idiot 100 times. 😂 -J

[@randyriggs4575]

On your trip to or from Alaska you will almost certainly encounter wildfires - mostly started by lightning (but not always). We were escorted thru a fire near the north end of the Cassiar Hwy with flames on the edge of the road! Scary. We also boondocked in the Bisti Wilderness Area a little north and west of where you were (I think) at Bisti/De-Na-Zin - absolutely beautiful. Your tips are absolutely rules that should be followed by everyone that uses public lands. I got a trash picker-upper that I take use every time we boondock. My old boy scout leader always said "leave it better than you found it". Thanks for the excellent video and for taking us along on your journey.

[@OpenRoading]

We we're near some fires 2 years ago outside of Crater Lake. We camped about a mile from the Firefighters camp. We talked to them and they were like - you're safe - but if we leave you should leave. 😂 Good advice I think. -J

[@randyriggs4575]

@@OpenRoading Definitely. When I worked back-stage at concerts the pyro guy would wear a shirt that said: I'm the PYRO tech - if you see me running try to keep up!" on the back.

[@OpenRoading]

@@randyriggs4575 That's spectacular. -J

[@susanbitner1103]

One of the better parts of a Friday. Yay.

[@OpenRoading]

So glad! And Fridays are supposed to be good so being a better part of a good day is high praise! -J

[@kathybrown2126]

Thanks for doing this video. People are so rude and disrespectful, but most of all ungrateful. It was nice meeting you today. maybe our paths will cross again someday. Safe travels.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so so much for stopping by and saying hi! We made it through our 500 mile trek unscathed the next day! 🙂 Do you mind if I share our photo in the KZbin Community? (if you could - I'd love the photo with Mike in it as well - you could email it to me at [e-mail]) - J

[@WanderingWedemeyers]

I was born in Farmington NM so I grew up hiking the Bisti Badlands and love finding the over 400 arches in that area as well.

[@OpenRoading]

So cool! We want to do more exploring there when we have more time. So many cool formations and we just went a couple hundred yards in like real tourists. 😂 -J

[@AuctionBoss]

Pack it in, Pack it out! When we hike/camp in the rockies or in the boundary waters of MN we lived by that rule! Have fun and keep up the good work!

[@OpenRoading]

It's so simple to clean up after yourself! But yet...it's getting less and less common. -J

[@ValerieCherylen]

Thank you for making this video. I found it helpful and it all needed to be said. I laughed when Trinity came running up, she was definitely proud of herself for getting out. It was her way of saying don’t leave me behind next time lol. I know you will get her spayed, thanks for doing that. Happy travels!🐇🐕‍🦺

[@OpenRoading]

She was sooooo proud of herself. 😂😂 -J

[@danettehead7353]

I don't understand why people are to lazy to put trash where it belongs. I get so angry and sad just driving on the highway and seeing trash people throw out of their vehicles 😡 probably the same people who can't return their shopping carts to the cart corral. Even though Trinity broke the screen im still leaving a❤ for her and Cody ❤

[@OpenRoading]

Haha - she's always deserving of a ❤️. -J

[@salliannebrown8129]

Really enjoy your videos. But, oh my dear young folks, the song you referenced is by The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. I know, I know..."ok Boomer", but I loved her as one of my favorite Motown artists. ❤

[@OpenRoading]

Yes indeed! We tossed Aretha Franklin's name up on the screen there while Kalyn said the wrong name 👀 Wanted to give credit where credit was due before I murdered the song. 😂 -J

[@salliannebrown8129]

@@OpenRoading, Sorry I was folding clothes and missed that. Check out some of her other songs like "Spirit in the Dark" and "Think" and of course her version of the great Carol King song, "Natural Woman". Kalyn, she'll change your life.

[@alcoa1489]

@@OpenRoading OMG - how funny! Perfect sync of the correct name popping up on the screen. I COMPLETELY MISSED TO BOO-BOO.

[@tobbywhitmore3721]

Thank you for saying what shouldn't have needed to be said. Simple campsite adequate

[@OpenRoading]

It's so simple - but I think every RV channel should do a form of this video (like many have long before us!). This message needs to be repeated over and over again from as many voices as possible. -J

[@glenna-jeanwilson5180]

Thanks for the vital reminders. Unfortunately, it is obvious common sense and mutual respect / kindness are not so common. I am from and living in NH, and the disrespect for the land saddens me. Thanks again. Have fun and safe travels to and in Alaska!😊

[@OpenRoading]

Love your state! The area we referenced was in/near the white mountains. We were there to hike the “prezies” -J

[@KAW5]

Great video! When we went to Monument Valley we got great views/pictures from the visitor center! No need to go on the dirt road! Love Trinity! He just wants to play ❤with you guys!

[@OpenRoading]

Yes - the best view is truly from the visitor center! -J

[@mum2jka]

We put locking/unlocking child locks on some of our cupboards. They’ve been great, very easy to use and work really well.

[@OpenRoading]

Nice! -J

[@brickworx8808]

You need the screen defender from Lippert. It will keep Trinity from pushing the screen out. Thanks for another great video!

[@OpenRoading]

On the shopping list! -J

[@mikeellindonut2004]

Yes it is important that we respect the free camping and others very good points, thank you

[@OpenRoading]

For sure! -J

[@thomasseals7670]

No excuses for trashing our beautiful world. Enjoy watching your videos. I rode my Harley through Monument Valley with no problems. Just take your time. ❤❤

[@OpenRoading]

It doesn't look like they allow motorcycles on their road anymore. 😳 They allow them through Valley of the Gods nearby but monument valley had a sign up and we didn't see a single motorcycle on the route. -J

[@kayemoore]

We all needed to hear this - I do good AND I can do better!

[@OpenRoading]

I'm trying to get in the habit of walking around our boondocking areas with a trash bag at some point before we leave. I'm currently doing it less than 50% of our locations but I want to bring it up to 100%. -J

[@FamilyGamersAA]

I've encountered still-smoldering campfires even at an empty site in a managed campground! It shocks me that anyone could leave a fire without making sure it was fully put out.

[@OpenRoading]

Right?? It’s the “it won’t happen to us” mindset.

[@mikesleigher932]

FYI that rubber line that divides , the top half from the basement. That is called belting you came get it Amazon. Sometimes it also called rv belting

[@OpenRoading]

Would you mind sending me a link to [e-mail]? (I have links turned off in the comments). When I search that I don't find what I have on here. And when I search Self Adhesive Automotive trim I only have choices of Red, Black, or Chrome so I must be digging in the wrong places! -J

[@sherrynorth1293]

Another good video! How is that smart girl Trinity liking the hammock in the truck ? Our dog loves it he feels more secure and comfortable .

[@OpenRoading]

She likes it better than the seat but we discovered that she needed more "softness" (because she's a princess after all 🙄 😂) so we put a fluffy blanket over it and now she loves it. It's also nice because it gives Cody his own space underneath! -J

[@cbob1]

Certain wood generates embers which (of course) can start an undetected (until it's too late) fire downwind, especially during dry season.

[@OpenRoading]

For sure! -J

[@judeskingsbury5549]

Well done. It’s all about RESPECT ❤

[@OpenRoading]

Just like Whitney Houston said! 😂 lol - That's gonna go down as one of our more "popular" errors. -J

[@johnsalmon2501]

Another great show!!!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for taking the time to watch! -J

[@dianesilverstein6475]

Excellent boondocking rules! Great video as always! ❤😊

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! -J

[@thewanderingshores]

Really enjoyed this video, so many great tips on how to be respectful and not to be an idiot. PS we had planned to stop at Bisti but got behind on our drive day so didn't make it. Looks amazing. - K and M

[@OpenRoading]

If you get the chance block off more time than we did! It looks like it's a pretty incredible place to explore if you can hike in a mile or 2! -J

[@carmenw.9617]

Did you forget your leveling blocks at 4:44? Also, just screw on some chicken wire on the inside of the door for an easy and cheap fix to keep Trinity inside! :)

[@OpenRoading]

Nope! The camera girl grabbed them after she got the shot. 😃 We’re hoping to get something more aesthetic for the screen…still shopping though!! -J

[@mariannejensen5244]

Love you, guys! Thank you!!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for coming back to watch! -J

[@mariannejensen5244]

You’re very welcome!

[@garykrissteiner1004]

Great message! Thank you!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for watching! -J

[@pupcamper58]

That’s all great information that can never be repeated enough. ❤🤗

[@OpenRoading]

For sure! -J

[@slcspomer]

We were just in Monument Valley last month! We camped nearby and had incredible sunrises and sunsets. It's beautiful but you're right....THOSE ROADS!!! I was just grateful we had a pickup and not a van or car! And all of your rules when boondocking are spot on. You would think they were all obvious, common sense things but they're not. #8 and #9 are my biggest pet peeves. We boondock along a lot of different forest service roads in Arizona and I'm always amazed at how many fires we have to put out. My kids have gotten really good at making a fire pit "soup" by pouring water in the smoldering ashes and stirring it all around until everything is dead out. They also know to leave our boondock site (and those nearby) even better than we found them but it seems each year we fill more and more trashbags full of other people's trash! Sadly...the people who need to hear your rules the most will never take the time to watch your video :(

[@OpenRoading]

I'd love to build a growing community of people like you who go above and beyond. We, of course, cannot get everyone to "behave" but the more people we can get to start leading by example the bigger difference we can make as a whole. -J

[@tmackley76]

great video!!!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! -J

[@cbob1]

And # 10 - don't let your dog run off leash with other campers around. I love to see Trinity in her happy place and run!

[@OpenRoading]

That's a pet peeve of mine as well. Out last boondocking spot had a bunch of "Free roam dogs" which was rather annoying because Trinity wasn't spayed yet so we had to be super careful on every walk. 🙄 -J

[@tomsibley5376]

Thank you for sooo much for your message. Simple respect goes a long way.

[@OpenRoading]

Just like Whitney Houston said! 😂 (Still can't believe we got that one wrong initially... Both of us were like "Yeah...Whitney Houston! RESPECT!" Then I looked it up and immediate 🤦🏼‍♂️ -J

[@cynthiamyers4265]

All such great advice! Your latest site is stunning.

[@OpenRoading]

The leaves were JUST starting to turn green when we left. I bet over the next couple of weeks the added color is going to really make that area POP! -J

[@rickphillips4966]

Great video and points. I agree with all except “dust out”. I don’t have an OHV, but that’s why they’re out there and they usually leave on Sunday I like your videos since you show rv-ing can be done cheaply. Watched a couple the other day that spent $76K in 2023.

[@OpenRoading]

So I'm going to make my case for the dust out - Where we are currently there are miles and miles of OHV trails with no campsites around. Camping areas are generally pretty congregated. Does it really ruin an OHVer's day if they slow down to 5-10 MPH past the RVs and tents before letting it rip? And when they are flying down the road and see someone running does it harm them all that much to be considerate for 10 seconds to slow down enough to kill the dust storm? Of course, like i said, I'm not going to be the dust police - but I do believe in courtesy and to me it says something about the person behind the wheel if they show zero consideration for the people they are ripping past. -J

[@markfields991]

Having fun at someone else’s expense is just an absolute lack of respect. There’s plenty of off-road trails for that where others aren’t affected by your choices. It all boils down to a selfish point of view that my fun is more important than someone else’s.

[@OpenRoading]

@@markfields991 Kalyn literally just got back from a run. OHVers sped up when they saw her creating more dust. She ended up about 30 feet off the trail and still got covered in dust. People genuinely get joy out of being disrespectful. -J

[@markfields991]

@@OpenRoading Well, I have to confess that I was once following a delivery truck in Florida after a big rain and the truck plowed through a big puddle spraying a lady walking down the sidewalk. She turned and started yelling at the truck and even though I knew I shouldn’t have, I just couldn’t resist the urge to plow through it again while her back was turned. 😔 I guess we’ll all have stuff to answer for one of these days. But sometimes, it’s hard to turn the other cheek.

[@cherylsalinas1548]

If you are traveling the Alcan to AK then you better be prepared for gravely rough roads. And narrow roads and 100’s of miles between stops. I haven’t traveled it in many many years but it’s rough in spots. Can’t wait to see how it goes. It’s beautiful and an awesome adventure for sure. ❤️❤️❤️

[@OpenRoading]

"I haven’t traveled it in many many years" I think you're in for a bit of a surprise when you watch our adventure this year. The roads are much much better now from what I have seen and according to the milepost guide there are a lot more fuel stations (although still decently spread out) -J

[@kevincoughlin4459]

The only "unpaved" (really underpaved) section of the Alcan was an area around Destruction Bay. Top of the world Highway and YT 9 south of Dawson City are gravel, but very well maintained.

[@OpenRoading]

​@@kevincoughlin4459 That's what I've been seeing! Which is great. -J

[@julier8106]

Well said! Respect is key. Thanks for sharing the fun stops!

[@OpenRoading]

(Not to sound like Forrest Gump) but my dad always taught me that there's always someone coming behind me. -J

[@scottwaitley6790]

You guys did a great job bringing these topics to light. I agree with all of them and as sad as it is, common courtesy isn’t common any longer

[@OpenRoading]

It's very true. Common courtesy has not been diligently passed on from generation to generation. -J

[@camrodger8638]

Regarding your upcoming trip north, here are two places in Canada that you absolutely must visit in the Yukon/BC. Liard Hot Springs Provincial Park (make reservations or use the overflow area) and the town of Dawson City. The territorial park is across the river from Dawson City on a free ferry. Unless you love bad gravel roads, resist the urge to carry on to Chicken, Alaska. Overall, we have found the Yukon to be more authentic and enjoyable than Alaska. The towns of Stewart, BC and Hyder, Alaska are also worth a visit. You will be able to cross from Canada to the US and back without going through US customs. While there, ask the locals for the story behind that story! Meridian Lake Provincial Park is a nice place to stay while visiting Stewart/Hyder.

[@OpenRoading]

I know we are hitting Dawson City and I do think we are going to be hitting up the Yukon at some point (but Kalyn does all the planning so I'm not 100% sure on that!) Thanks for the advice! -J

[@PlanetEarth3141]

There is a recent movie called The Marksman with Liam Neesom that was released in Jan of 2021. Some scenes were filmed in several places of New Mexico, one in the town of Belen, NM. Belen is just down the road a bit from Bisto Badlands where you two are out walking with Trinity. That Badlands matches a few scenes in the movie. Just Hollywood trivia for your channel to enjoy. 😊

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks! I love it! We love seeing if we can match up places to locations! -J

[@rosemariepeach2318]

Great reminder to all to be considerate of people and the environment. We need both to survive on this beautiful planet of ours. Love watching you guys

[@OpenRoading]

Glad you enjoyed it! -J

[@christaunton5675]

The number of times ive taken water in bucket off my grey water tank, to put out fire pitts that people just drive away from. They get up in morning, throw every piece of wood they have one fire have their morning coffee, then drive away. Grey water is your friend, i bucket it over and douse they're fires

[@OpenRoading]

Yes...the classic "let's get the fire going before we leave" 🙄👀 Not all heroes wear capes! Some carry a bucket of gray water. -J

[@user-rw9tb7ry9z]

Bravo!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks! -J

[@maryklouzek1802]

Beautiful scenery! Thanks for sharing. (Also, I love your floral cap!)

[@OpenRoading]

You're welcome! I love it when Kalyn wears that hat too! She got it on Mackinac Island in 2019! -J

[@GarrettKoval]

The area in and around monument valley is so beautiful, especially at sunrise and sunset. Glad you made it there.

[@OpenRoading]

Next week we drove another area around there and yes... we loved it! -J

[@lindamiller5489]

Those rocks around the campfire are wonderful

[@OpenRoading]

Nice little fire ring! -J

[@timothyallen2407]

Not sure if you have soft close hinges on your cabinet doors but that might help in keeping them closed during travel. Same goes for drawer slides.

[@OpenRoading]

Our drawers have very basic hardware but they do have a catch so they don't pop out (we have to lift the drawer before pulling to open). The desk doesn't have that but I have a solution I'm working on. The cabinets have a clasp that is supposed to hold them closed...and it does mostly a good job.... 😂 -J

[@NayaStone_AWAKE]

Fantastic Video 🔥🔥❤️ thank you for being responsible messengers 🙏💙

[@OpenRoading]

Glad you enjoyed watching! -J

[@destinysisco3142]

Its a rare video i see someone empty their tanks without gloves.

[@OpenRoading]

Well... you'll find that here often. We even made my all time favorite youtube short video about it a while back! kzbin.infod9MgSEc4FFg

[@brianr3424]

Lol….my dogs destroyed my screen door! U guys got off lucky😂😂😂😂

[@OpenRoading]

haha! I'm just glad she didn't hurt herself! -J

[@deborahreneelewis7280]

One of my favorite spots! Did not know you were so close in my home state.

[@OpenRoading]

KZbin is always a week or more behind real time due to the time it takes to edit the video. We are more "Real time" with our content on Instagram! -J

[@jeremyj612]

Well done guys! People have become so selfish culturally. So many don't even realize it. Just oblivious. It's what they've always known. Thanks for another great video!

[@OpenRoading]

"It's what they've always known." I think there is a mountain of sad truth that could be unpacked through that statement. - J

[@jeremyj612]

@@OpenRoading 100%, no doubt. Love that you guys get it. Really glad to find your channel through Craig and Victoria. Really looking forward to your adventure in Alaska. My first base was Eielson AFB, in Fairbanks. I lived in Alaska for 4 years. I've also been stationed in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico among other places. Your channel has been so fun to catch up on!

[@terrizseleczky9794]

Thanks!

[@terrizseleczky9794]

Next time lunch is on me (well, cheap lunch)😂

[@OpenRoading]

So sweet of you. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity! 🤗 I'm always humbled when people go out of their way to support the channel. -J

[@ohioclassCcamper]

I enjoy your video.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for taking the time to let us know! -J

[@movingthenest]

All good points for not only boondocking, but for camping in general. Thanks for sharing some great tips on how not to be an idiot.

[@OpenRoading]

Good point! It's all common sense stuff but as others have pointed out - common sense isn't so common anymore. -J

[@jasonwitters7860]

I see you spent the extra money on the pet exit screen door. Spendy. We went through Monument Valley about 5 years ago. Beautiful. We also did the mighty 5, and Colorado. We love it out West. Great video. Safe travels, and Thanks for sharing.

[@OpenRoading]

We still have some parks to hit in Colorado! -J

[@RV_twidlr]

We use baby cupboard safety latches. If the door comes loose the catch keeps them shut.

[@OpenRoading]

Nice! -J

[@justmeprematee]

R-E-S-P-E-C-T song was a great example. Aretha Franklin was the artist😊

[@OpenRoading]

Yep! We have a correction graphic up there! -J

[@denebrazzale]

Hubby and I really appreciate that you clean the camp areas. We also clean our camp areas. Our motto is to leave it cleaner than when we arrived. My biggest pet peeve is cigarette butts. And I’m a smoker

[@OpenRoading]

"Our motto is to leave it cleaner than when we arrived" I'm sure you have found that is a very easy motto to follow through on anymore. It's crazy how bad some places are. -J

[@anthonymartinez749]

Happy Friday 🎉

[@OpenRoading]

Back on your game! 🏆 -J

[@lornakay5976]

I don’t camp or RV but like watching your videos! This was very informative on what you should be doing. Vehicles need a “No Dust” rule similar to boats and the “No wake” rule.

[@OpenRoading]

I like it! I don't see it happening....but I like it! -J

[@millierader2517]

Thank you once again for another fun trip. I have been to Monument Valley. A friend and I thought it would be fun to mountain bike there. We didn't realize that it was all deep red sand. Not fun! I can't wait to see the new screen door guard.

[@OpenRoading]

Oh man! Biking through that would be tough! -J

[@DragonflightAdventures1]

Thank for a great video with a good message. Hey, I like sassy! 😅

[@OpenRoading]

Haha! We try to be super upbeat in all our videos. This one was upbeat with a side of sass. 😂 -J

[@robertluce9494]

As a deputy Sheriff in Colorado, who worked in National Forest areas free public camping (Boondocking) is great. However, we had numerous people pull in set up camp, trash the area and leave. Even leaving RVs behind for the state or forest service to clean up. It affects everyone unfortunately.

[@OpenRoading]

We just found a huge piece of someone’s awning at our latest boondocking spot. It’s so frustrating! We did find a National Forest campground who was willing to take it and break it down to put in their dumpsters. Thank you for all you do! -K

[@eddiehagler6127]

The common phrase in Alaska about a cracked windshield is “an Alaskan windshield” (expect to get a damaged windshield in Alaska)

[@OpenRoading]

Yep! We're expecting it. Although I think it's less common than it used to be! -J

[@markfields991]

Too harsh? I think you were being nice! Idiot is a much nicer word than what some of these people really are! Great video! Keep having fun with it.

[@OpenRoading]

Haha! We try to stay super upbeat in our videos. We don't want to become cranky "get off my lawn" people. 😂 -J

[@markfields991]

@@OpenRoading that might actually be a fun video to make: OpenRoading with the Cranks! 😁

[@OpenRoading]

@@markfields991 😂

[@barbaras676]

I really like the funny clips you’re inserting! Very cute😂

[@OpenRoading]

Yay! It's always tricky because I don't want them to interrupt the flow but at the same time they can be some good laugh out loud moments. So thank you for that feedback! -J

[@Theo8863]

Lippert makes a screen protector. Amazon carries it.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks! -J

[@chuckbrewington6817]

Good video.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! -J

[@pdzh]

nice job using a parachute on the downhill. (trailer brakes)

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks! My parachute is getting a little old. I'm hoping to replace the canopy at some point. -J

[@pdzh]

@@OpenRoading gotta be done on time, don't forget what the minimum thickness is allowed for the brakes, and add some more space. I make my employer, replace brakes on my truck before they get to the minimum.

[@OpenRoading]

@@pdzh I want to do whole new hub assemblies. These ones are original and I'd love to get brand new ones on there. -J

[@pdzh]

@@OpenRoading I would absolutely do that. I myself about to do some work on my 1999 GMC suburban, I need to redo my rear brakes, then on my trailer swap idlers into electric brakes. The more braking the better

[@PawsToJourney]

Your RV is so cute! Would love to see a full tour one day! We have opposing sides for the main living area: which is great for having TONS of space, but not so great if you want to get inside real quick on travel days 🫣 We can get inside and get to half of the fridge, the whole coffee bar (yay), the bathroom, and bedroom. But you’re definitely not chilling in the living space until a slide is opened 😅

[@OpenRoading]

We so want duel slides...but yeah...that part about them kinda stinks! There's always pros and cons to things! Tour is coming! We wanted to finish the decals first but the tour is now ON the content schedule! -J

[@sherryarcher4832]

Jockey 3000 solar generator. No noise at all and it can be charged 3 ways solar, 110 or 12v truck while driving.

[@OpenRoading]

That's a good option if you don't have a solar setup. For us if we run out of juice it means the hasn't been out for a while. So we have a generator for a backup charging source. If you already have a solar setup, I'd either recommend expanding the setup or getting a backup generator over a completely separate solar generator. -J

[@richardhoffkins9088]

When your setting up the camper, what product and/or app are y’all using to get the camper leveled? Also a great reminder to everyone to be considerate of the environment and other people to pack it in, pack it out!

[@OpenRoading]

We have a levelmate! We really like it. We have to do all the leveling - but it tells us how far off we are. -J

[@richardhoffkins9088]

@@OpenRoading Thank you very much for your response! I have a truck camper and this might be the product that I’m looking for to easier leveling. I’ll look on Amazon for it. Safe travels.

[@OpenRoading]

@@richardhoffkins9088 If you haven't found it yet: amzn.to/3QyHTl5 You have to set it up - but once you do it's good to go! -J

[@janehargis9301]

Grey water open dumping is hot button topic! After reading up about long term sequelae we decided to use biodegradable products whenever possible - soaps, toothpaste, etc. It’s a process for sure but we’ve achieved about 70 - 80% compliant products. Sometimes it’s time to celebrate the baby steps!

[@OpenRoading]

Yeah...I was not sure whether to toss it in here because I know it's a lightning rod for some. I know products matter but generally in places where I've dumped gray water I've seen plant life in that area (when we are there for 2 weeks) be noticeably greener than the plants around. So for me, I'm ok with it where allowed and yeah, do your best to make the water as good as you can - but I don't think I'll ever have a problem with someone dumping grays as long as they are doing it in a good manner (not dumping it all over the site). -J

[@Max-on-Tour]

I am sitting here laughing. At 32:20 you call out the girls. Take a close look again. I think you are lucky those guys were in a good mood. And now I laugh a little more.

[@OpenRoading]

I knew it! I KNEW I was going to catch (Well deserved) grief for this. 😂😂😂😂😂 I didn't notice it until it was already uploaded to KZbin this morning. 😂 -J

[@FryedTater]

Try a Smores with a thin Reeces peanut buttercup. Oh so good! Loved this vid!

[@OpenRoading]

Why a thin one! GIVE ME THE BIG CUP! 😂 -J

[@FryedTater]

@OpenRoading there ya go! Do it! Go Big or Go home right! Thanks for sharing y'alls journey! Safe travels!

[@chrisschiel6741]

If you install a soft start on your AC unit you can run it off a 2000 watt generator. I did with my 2000 watt Honda.

[@OpenRoading]

I'll have to give that a shot. I had a soft start given to me but I've never installed it because I knew we didn't have enough solar to make it possible for that application. -J

[@chrisschiel6741]

@@OpenRoading You don't need solar for the SS. That said, with it, it will greatly reduce the starting amperage which will reduce the battery draw down. I had a 15,000 AC unit and a 2000 watt Honda generator. I will not run. I added the SS and was then able to run it with the Generator.

[@OpenRoading]

@@chrisschiel6741 true true. I worded that very poorly. I just meant that I hadn't thought about using it for a generator. My thought was to install it if I ever got enough juice in my solar and battery setup to consider running it off that. 🙂 But now I may try to install it next winter knowing that I might be able to run it off my small gen! -J