20 Dry Camping Tips // Understanding What is Dry Camping and Boondocking // Truck Camper Living

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  • Опубліковано 7 лют 2025
  • If you've recently purchased an RV you may be wondering what is dry camping? Or maybe you've heard other people talk about boondocking and you want to know what is the difference between dry camping and boondocking?
    In this video, we help you understand that dry camping is simply being able to be self-sustained in your RV when you camp. Whether you dry camp in your family member's driveway for a night or spend two weeks camping on BLM land, the idea is the same.
    When you dry camp you do not require power, water or sewer hookups. Essentially you only need a "dry place" to park and camp for the night.
    Boondocking is the same concept. However, you may find yourself paying to dry camp sometimes. In places like US National Parks and forests, you will find that resources for campgrounds are limited. So you may end up paying to spend the night there dry camping with no hookups.
    On the other hand, boondocking is typically considered "free camping." We usually think of boondocking as camping off-grid in some beautiful place where there is typically nobody around. Think about vast desert areas, isolated beaches and campsites buried beneath the thick forest. This is boondocking.
    Thus you will dry camp when you boondock, but you may not necessarily boondock when you dry camp.
    In this video, you'll learn the difference between dry camping and boondocking as well as over 20 tips, tricks and suggested items to have with you when you dry camp or boondock.
    To be sure you have all of the dry camping essentials be sure to check out our Amazon Store:
    One of our favorite dry camping opportunities is through Harvest Host. With this membership, you will dry camp in beautiful places such as farms, vineyards, orchards and more! Use this link for 15% of your membership!
    harvesthosts.re...
    For more information on dry camping be sure to check out this post:
    calledtowander...
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    ✜✜✜ ABOUT CtW:
    We're passionate about helping people as we attempt to travel from Alaska to Argentina in our truck camper. It is our goal to inspire you to begin your next adventure and to provide you with the best information possible to help you prepare for the journey!
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КОМЕНТАРІ •

  • @cslay06
    @cslay06 4 роки тому +43

    Good stuff. Another great tip for re-using your same plastic dishware and cleaning them up quickly without running water - Bring a spray bottle of vinegar water (half white vinegar and half water) and just spray your dishes as soon as you are done using them and wipe them clean with a paper towel. Works great and you're not doing traditional dishes in the sink.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому +7

      That's a great idea! We've used a soap and water spray before but haven't thought of the vinegar. Will add it to our repertoire!

    • @cslay06
      @cslay06 4 роки тому +8

      @@CalledToWander Awesome. Of course, the key is to not let your dishes sit after use. Clean them immediately and its easy peasy.

  • @thomasking3939
    @thomasking3939 4 роки тому +52

    Recently came upon your videos. Simple, to the point and with salient information. Thanks for NOT having any mind numbing background music. We appear to have the same barber.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому +3

      Glad to help and thanks for the feedback! Thanks for watching and reaching out!

    • @ebart1984
      @ebart1984 3 роки тому

      I second this.

  • @mendyviola
    @mendyviola 3 роки тому +12

    Shower/bathing tip from the villages in the jungles of Borneo: get a collapsible laundry tub and dipper. Fill with warmed (or cool) water. Just fill the dipper, put it over yourself, and bathe. Having a mat to stand on to keep out of the dirt helps, if not, flip flops work to keep your feet clean. No need to buy a lot of expensive solar/electric powered equipment. I did that regularly (as did the locals) for many years when I lived in Sarawak.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +4

      Nice tips! We often use a gallon container and have a decent shower with water leftover! And we have a footwash collapsible bin we put water in by the door for last minute clean feet!

  • @JamesMulkey-g9w
    @JamesMulkey-g9w Рік тому +6

    Great video! I have just purchased a new cargo trailer slated for custom conversion. I also will be living full time (by necessity) bouncing to and from free camping in the Deep South, when I have the trailer suitable for occupying. I am relying heavily on UA-cam and people like yourself to draw from your experience and knowledge. Thanks for your generosity with your time and resources helping the rest of us enjoy the purity of freedom.

  • @Hail2MasterChief
    @Hail2MasterChief Рік тому +4

    Good practical tips. Would like to see more on 12 volt or solar system next video.

  • @robertard8957
    @robertard8957 4 роки тому +5

    Robert here. I'm100%disable medically retired from. U.S.A.F. First time I've commented on you and your wife. I really like your program. Hopefully you will have more episodes. I know I will.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Thank you for your service! And thanks for taking the time to check out our channel and videos! We've got tons of older videos from our first few seasons and we'll be releasing new videos in upcoming weeks/months as we're working hard to document our remodeling project! Thanks again for reaching out!

    • @jabreck1934
      @jabreck1934 3 роки тому

      You qualify for a California distinguished veterans pass.
      You can stay free at all state campgrounds.
      My son is halfway to retirement.E6 SF.
      There's nothing I can really do for him,
      But as a camp host, I can assist his brothers and sisters in any way necessary. You are family

  • @duckiegirl58
    @duckiegirl58 3 роки тому +7

    Great tips! I didn't hear you mention a solar or wind up weather radio. We saw them at Bass Pro Shop.. you never know when the weather is gonna turn evil! A good first aid kit, good cooking over a fire instead of the propane.. and family wireless entertainment.. get the kiddos unplugged! Withdrawals are unpleasant, but worth it! 🛻🚌❤️

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      Good tips to keep in mind! Though we must say we know nothing of these "kiddos" you reference! =)

  • @RandisAdventures
    @RandisAdventures 4 роки тому +6

    Great boondocking tips! Conserving water takes practice but it almost becomes a game!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому +1

      Yes it does! SO many great games to full-time RVing... how long can you wear the same clothes, how little can you pay in camping fees each month, how long before you have to dump the tanks... Thanks for watching!

    • @RandisAdventures
      @RandisAdventures 4 роки тому

      @@CalledToWander Indeed! 😁

    • @fishhuntadventure
      @fishhuntadventure 3 роки тому

      I have to admit the ‘conserving water’ thing boggled my mind. People have to think about this? I have a ‘stationary camper’ I’ve been using for over three years to save money in hopes of buying property. I’ve hauled water and had no grid power in all that time. You can shower daily, cook, take care of things with under 2 gallons per day.
      Good video. Probably useful to a lot of folks. It is just that a couple of things seemed unnecessarily inconvenient or - like the water- run-of-the-mill common sense.
      Growing up, we tent-camped everywhere we vacationed. From Florida to Nova Scotia and everywhere between. Dishpan dishwashing was the norm. There was no running water. A Coleman gasoline lantern.
      I’m not making fun; I was bemused. by the headlamp idea… I have 400W of solar and 450Ah of battery, 1200W true sine inverter. I have lots of 12V led light, no headlamps. I use an electric coffeemaker daily.
      Once my property is secured I’ll move it there. However, I’ve already started a few other minor mods that will let me tow anywhere I please without concern for hookups or electric- just like now. It’s 24’ so it’s not cramped- and completely configured for off-grid. I have no generator.
      Installing a new 32 gallon freshwater tank and not using the holding tanks (shower can go on the ground) I can be wherever if I want to boondock and have no constraints other than needing to be at work or maybe running out of water in 14 or 15 days.

    • @fishhuntadventure
      @fishhuntadventure 3 роки тому +1

      I have to admit the ‘conserving water’ thing boggled my mind. People have to think about this? I have a ‘stationary camper’ I’ve been using for over three years to save money in hopes of buying property. I’ve hauled water and had no grid power in all that time. You can shower daily, cook, take care of things with under 2 gallons per day.
      Good video. Probably useful to a lot of folks. It is just that a couple of things seemed unnecessarily inconvenient or - like the water- run-of-the-mill common sense.
      Growing up, we tent-camped everywhere we vacationed. From Florida to Nova Scotia and everywhere between. Dishpan dishwashing was the norm. There was no running water. A Coleman gasoline lantern.
      I’m not making fun; I was bemused. by the headlamp idea… I have 400W of solar and 450Ah of battery, 1200W true sine inverter. I have lots of 12V led light, no headlamps. I use an electric coffeemaker daily.
      Once my property is secured I’ll move it there. However, I’ve already started a few other minor mods that will let me tow anywhere I please without concern for hookups or electric- just like now. It’s 24’ so it’s not cramped- and completely configured for off-grid. I have no generator.
      Installing a new 32 gallon freshwater tank and not using the holding tanks (shower can go on the ground) I can be wherever if I want to boondock and have no constraints other than needing to be at work or maybe running out of water in 14 or 15 days.

    • @mb5ggX2SyFMM
      @mb5ggX2SyFMM 3 роки тому

      @@fishhuntadventure A good way to conserve water and get very clean is to use a few drops (10 or 15+ drops) of povidone iodine a.k.a Betadine (antiseptic/antimicrobial brown stuff) in about 32 - 40 ounces of water to completely wash your body.
      Use a bucket and washcloth to wipe down your entire body. Dip and gently wring the washcloth each time you wipe down body parts and limbs to not get sopping wet. No need to use a towel to dry off either. Half a gallon of water will clean 2 people.
      For a visual example, in the movie, No Country for Old Men, the evil hit man, Anton Chigurh created the mixture to pour on his thigh wound. He blew up the pharmacy in order to steal supplies to treat the wound.
      You'll get super clean. I will sometimes wash with the mixture whenever I don't feel like taking a shower, but need to do something to keep from smelling funky.

  • @daisybrown7644
    @daisybrown7644 Місяць тому +1

    To wash dishes I just use very little water in a dish pan because that’s pretty much the same as spraying it down with a bottle of water

  • @melloyello1616
    @melloyello1616 4 місяці тому +1

    Thought that was a snake at the end 15:08😦Great helpful video!

  • @robertshinazy3055
    @robertshinazy3055 4 роки тому +8

    Thanks Good video. 95% of my camping is dry camping Don't really care for campgrounds just have a little teardrop trailer .

  • @jasoncowling998
    @jasoncowling998 Рік тому +1

    Thank you for all your advice. I just bought a camper and new at it. I watch these videos to learn more. And i learned alot from you. Thank you

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  Рік тому

      Thanks for watching and taking the time to reach out! In the coming months we'll be releasing a series of videos aimed at beginning rvers so feel free to email any ideas you have for information you'd like explained. We'll do our best to work it into the videos.

  • @vincebarillaro7942
    @vincebarillaro7942 Рік тому +1

    Great tips, as I will soon start my own adventure of living in a truck camper

  • @toddsickinger3934
    @toddsickinger3934 2 роки тому +4

    Perfect list of things to consider, especially if you’re camping more than 3 days. We dry and boondock about 3 nights and 4 days, so we have more finite energy numbers which gives us more confidence. Everything you say is true, but for the days we are out we are not as worried about water, our grey and black tanks filling up or energy. So we may take showers more often unless we are at 5he beach where we swim and may have additional rinse options. That being said, focusing on all these items is key regardless of the days out. For example, we haven’t completely dialed i. The gas use of the generator over the days we are out. So we focus on how ,any gallons of gas we bring and may bring more than needed until we dial it in. Experience is the key AFTER you’ve gotten great advice from videos like these.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому +1

      Great ideas and thanks for sharing! We're constantly learning from others and trying to share what we learn!

  • @LilRuby1961Bonanza
    @LilRuby1961Bonanza Рік тому

    Yep, gotta have that cute adorable puppy or two above all else! 😂🐕🐕❤️🏕️ that’s my favorite part, and my two 4 year old heelers as well … brother and sister from the same litter.

  • @shoveljunk-americanpatriot7603

    Great presentation. Stayed on the topic with a life story and very good information. Thank you.

  • @LadyTam55
    @LadyTam55 2 роки тому +1

    I live off grid in the high desert. 16.5 years ago I move here. Set one wind genarator as there's wind all the time till you need it. Started with a 500gal water tank. As time went on I got solar as it was 10 times higher back 16 years ago. Just a little at a time. A bucket with a cabinet over it for compost. Use wood chips when you go. I dump my bucket into a 55gal drum and let sit a year or more then bury it the compost. It's been just a little more all the time but this is for living off grid full time. I have my water haul in now as I gotten older. But now I am set up where I can run a 7.5 cube freezer and a new refrigerator as the new ones don't pull much. All led lights now. You can do the same with,a camper one step at a time. I am getting ready to get a use fifthwheel to travel with. I will take all I have learn over the last many years. But if you try you can live on very little.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Those are some pretty creative ways to stay off grid! Not sure how much translates into the RV living space, aside from the low energy use. But let us know how things go with your transition into traveling! Thanks for watching and reaching out!

  • @paulywally1957
    @paulywally1957 3 роки тому +4

    Great information I just found your channel here and it's very helpful another suggestion that I actually use in my daily boondocking routine is having a spray bottle with soapy water and a spray bottle with just clean water and then I can just wash this by spraying some soapy water on wash them up and then rinse it with the spray bottle and you conserve water. And catching the water in a small tub that the size of the sink and using a biological friendly soap you can safely dump your dishwater in a safe spot. And save on the space in your gray tank.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      Thanks for watching and reaching out with that idea! We've since adopted it from time to time depending on where and for how long we're boondocking! But great idea!

  • @roymarchant6361
    @roymarchant6361 3 роки тому +1

    Yes! I’ll be watching!

  • @paulhudson8321
    @paulhudson8321 4 роки тому +6

    We just bought a truck/camper combo last September. Tried it a couple of times before the winter. Parks were closed so we managed to find somewhere to park for the night. We have an onboard propane generator if needed. I would rather dry camp boondock than go to a park full of people unless the park had some nice scenery. We like to keep moving around. I like the sound of that harvest property overnight staying idea. Thanks for the ideas. We have lots to learn. One thing I did do was switch our incandescent bulbs for led ones. It wasn’t cheap but they use almost no power for brighter lights. We reside in Canada so we have a huge province and country to explore.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Thats awesome that you're getting into the truck camper life! Everything you said is reasons why TC are great in terms of minimal needs for camping. And yes, LED lights help too. Here's our review of Harvest Host and a link for 15% off your membership if you do join. It's amazing and there are plenty of places to stay in Canada! Enjoy your travels! calledtowander.com/harvest-hosts-review/

    • @fishhuntadventure
      @fishhuntadventure 3 роки тому

      The 120VAC led’s are good. An improvement.
      I went none step further and eliminated the 120V lights altogether and use 12V led ceiling lights if I need a lot of light, and installed a bunch of milliwatt led floods for under cabinet, over stove, bathroom lights for regular use. I’ve accidentally left lights on all day before and the batteries don’t even notice.
      You should look into eliminating the 120V need (I say that but I use a 120V refrigerator:)…

  • @LivingInSantaClarita
    @LivingInSantaClarita 3 роки тому +3

    thank you very much. Very helpful information.
    Really like your straight to the point information. Not any fluff. Yes a pup is great to have!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Thanks! Hope you're able to enjoy being off grid!

  • @Tawnieandwayne
    @Tawnieandwayne 3 роки тому +1

    awesome tips! We have been boondocking for a year now and use the majority of these :)

  • @alvisjenkins1305
    @alvisjenkins1305 Рік тому +1

    I will have a homebuilt VAWT to use where there is ample wind, and it is usually windy in high elevations.

  • @hammer-r
    @hammer-r 3 роки тому +5

    Thanks for the video. We just bought a trailer and am in the process of fitting solar and batteries so we can boon dock on some friends land out west. Many of your suggestions we hadn’t thought of and will help. Thanks again

  • @sarahallgood798
    @sarahallgood798 4 роки тому +4

    Oh how cool. I'm close to go and really needed this video

  • @zebedeenahum3641
    @zebedeenahum3641 3 роки тому +1

    We were watching your video and our dog was going nuts prancing around the room looking for something. We figured it out that it was the chipmunk noise on your video that was making him do all that. LOL. He was looking for the chipmunk.
    Great advice though.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      That is awesome! Our pups loved chasing the chipmunks at that campsite in the NY Finger Lakes region!

  • @FidoHouse
    @FidoHouse 2 роки тому +1

    Glad to find your channel!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Thanks for subbing! Glad to have you along on our journey!

  • @deborahelliott833
    @deborahelliott833 3 роки тому +7

    I live in my stocked van. :0) When I get low in stuff, I go to the nearest town to replenish.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      We avoid towns like the plague and would rather stay set up camping in the wild. But agree when the time comes. Thanks for watching and reaching out!

  • @john-xo9vp
    @john-xo9vp 3 роки тому +3

    Love to hear a cost break down per month, just an average. Considering doing this with my family.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +4

      We spend less than $2,000 per month on everything except fuel. (Some months we had to spend a lot, such as to get from FL to CO and other months we stay put, such as in Baja). But the 2K includes everything from our personal and RV insurance to every other expense we incur. We're keeping a detailed public ledger for every dollar we spend, which you can find in this post. The post itself should give you an idea, but then click on any of the months to read the budget updates and you'll see notes on how we account for every dollar. Hope this helps! calledtowander.com/full-time-rv-living-cost/

  • @bruceprichard2996
    @bruceprichard2996 Рік тому +1

    Well done, thanks for sharing

  • @luiscepeda8110
    @luiscepeda8110 3 роки тому +1

    Muchas gracias. This video has great advice for us. We’ll try out your tips this thanksgiving

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      De nada! Thanks for watching and reaching out! Let us know how the camping goes!

  • @SheltiesRule49
    @SheltiesRule49 Рік тому +1

    Good info.. I’m new to camping. Ty very much.

  • @y0itsmarlin
    @y0itsmarlin 2 роки тому +1

    I just got my 05 Lance 845! I am trying to understand more about the heater for hot water and if it self ignites or needs to be lit from outside? This camper is identical to yours and very clean! A brief video on the water heat system/ propane in general would be great . I’m in Fort Myers I see you guys are from FL as well.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  Рік тому

      Thanks and hope you enjoy the adventure! Unfortunately we sold the TC over 2 years ago and can't put out that video suggestion. But someone has to have something on YT to help you

  • @JoseOrtega-xn4mj
    @JoseOrtega-xn4mj 8 місяців тому +1

    Great advice, thanks 🙏🏻

  • @Bornagain7202
    @Bornagain7202 2 роки тому +1

    you can dry camp or boondock on state lands completely free for certain period time

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Mostly for free, in most places for mostly certain time periods - yes! Thanks for adding that!

  • @IggnantOG
    @IggnantOG Рік тому +1

    Spray bottles for dishes and washing you hands saves lots of water supply and gray water.with a tub only drops go down the drain. Good video, thank you.

  • @brentmcmahon8188
    @brentmcmahon8188 Рік тому +1

    Yea I have the battery monitor it’s the round one and is cheap with 2 Battleborn 100 amp apiese they can run my AC all nite .

  • @LMarie-nu9tg
    @LMarie-nu9tg 2 роки тому +1

    Great info and thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences, give feedback and such; however, using wet wipes to wash up with, using paper plates and paper towels is creating more waste and single use. In a few of the below comments is the mention of vinegar to clean off dishes. Planning to eat 'finger' foods such as burgers, dogs, sammies, grilled chicken legs, etc require no plate or share a plate with your significant other. I'd rather use water to Navy shower every other day than to eat off a plate. Just my thoughts and not everyone's cup of tea. Again, thanks for sharing your stories. I have watched so many of them.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Thanks for the tips. We are also at a point in life where we are not trying to be extreme in how we handle life on the road. We shower when we want to shower and if that means heading back to town sooner than later, so be it. And we collect our trash and store it outside so whenever we fill up, we head into town. Some people take dry camping to the extreme. We balance it with comfort. Thanks for watching and offering extra tips!

    • @tennesseeterri
      @tennesseeterri 7 місяців тому

      Using paper plates and paper towels conserves water, and they can be used as a fire starter for your evening campfire.

  • @rubyokosi8377
    @rubyokosi8377 4 роки тому +13

    Spray bottle with vinegar and water works great for dishes. Spray bottle with plain water works great for after a bath.😄✌️

  • @Reneellinedance
    @Reneellinedance 3 роки тому +3

    Excellent video going camping or glamping for the 1st time in a rented camper this weekend. Getting the lay of the land because I’m retiring in 1 year and want to travel around the United States in either a RV camper or a converted shuttle bus. I love the truck campers especially the host camper Cascade but not sure about attaching/detaching.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      Thanks for watching and reaching out! You're going to enjoy getting out and traveling by RV! Whichever way you go with your RV of choice will have its pros and cons. But since we loved our 3 years in our truck camper we lean toward that and want to help you get over any anxiety about traveling in one. We have a whole section of our website dedicated to truck camper living - but here's the post (with video) specifically about loading/unloading the camper: calledtowander.com/load-a-truck-camper/ For other truck camper living: calledtowander.com/category/truck-camper-living/

  • @edyoung6573
    @edyoung6573 4 роки тому +2

    Great I informative video!! Love you two! Stay safe!!

  • @gratefuldude7511
    @gratefuldude7511 2 роки тому +1

    Great tips and tricks thank you

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks for taking the time to watch and learn!

  • @DLY0898
    @DLY0898 3 роки тому +2

    I think a hot sponge bath is a nice non-garbage-creating way to wash.

  • @fishhuntadventure
    @fishhuntadventure 3 роки тому +1

    6:22. A holding tank is for black or grey sewer… I hope your outdoor shower is actually fed from a freshwater tank not a holding tank.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      Slip of the tongue. Hope the rest of the info helps you out

  • @cherylroumillat3660
    @cherylroumillat3660 2 роки тому +1

    Beautiful Blessing Darling. ⚘🎚🍑⭐

  • @aztrails1
    @aztrails1 4 роки тому +3

    Happy New Year guys I look forward to another year of interesting videos and awesome photography.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Happy new year! Thanks for continuing to watch and for reaching out!

  • @barrywatler7482
    @barrywatler7482 4 роки тому +2

    Always interesting thanks for sharing stay safe cheers from Australia 🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺

  • @AmericanAztec88
    @AmericanAztec88 2 роки тому +1

    Hey thanks very good tips for us to use! Appreciated

  • @rubycrisp761
    @rubycrisp761 3 роки тому +4

    Excellent info! Thank you.

  • @ohmcintyre2067
    @ohmcintyre2067 3 роки тому +2

    Simple and practical. Thanks!

  • @coltwinchester6124
    @coltwinchester6124 2 місяці тому

    I use solar landscape lights. Set them out in the sun during the day to charge,
    and you will have hours of light at night.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 місяці тому

      If that's the way you want to go. We just keep a large lithium battery bank and enough solar panels for literal endless amounts of power for any lights or appliances we want.

    • @coltwinchester6124
      @coltwinchester6124 2 місяці тому

      @@CalledToWander nothing money cannot buy

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 місяці тому

      @@coltwinchester6124 Its choosing how to spend what you have for what comforts you want. Most of the America lives on more than we do. Some live on less. We don't have a lot of money but we use wisely it to support our way of life.

    • @coltwinchester6124
      @coltwinchester6124 2 місяці тому +1

      ​ @CalledToWander tip was for people who have a simpler set up, and less money. Like me, I have 2 100 ah marine batteries and 300 watts of solar.

  • @terrylkleier4311
    @terrylkleier4311 3 роки тому +1

    All great tips thank you

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Thanks for taking the time to watch and reach out!

  • @jozsefjamesofficial
    @jozsefjamesofficial 3 роки тому +2

    Nicely done....thanks for the tips!

  • @lhasaapso3360
    @lhasaapso3360 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for what I think is great and extremely necessary information. I've looked at dozens and dozens of set ups and how to build. But what happens when you actually get out there is very seldom discussed. One person didn't have a fridge, but is a survivalist and knows where to purchase foods that don't have to be refrigerated, another person carried jerkey and meal bars, while someone else used powdered products like eggs and milk and yet another relies on her Jackery and no solar. When you're really "roughing it," you've got to know what to do. I've not gone camping in a long, long time and we definitely didn't have all of this new technology ... but we survived. I would loved to go camping again, and learned how I can without purchasing or renting a vehicle or camper, but using my trusty little RAV 4. Thanks again. 5 thumbs up.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Thanks! We try to be authentic in everything we do. Those are the things we have and the processes we have used over 3 years of living in our tiny truck camper! Glad it was helpful!

  • @michellebentz3576
    @michellebentz3576 4 роки тому +1

    Great info! You forgot to block out your plate at closing 👍😊

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Sold the truck and turned in the plate to the state of Florida. Got lazy in the edit! ;) thanks for watching and pointing it out!

  • @judithkopchak2291
    @judithkopchak2291 Рік тому +1

    Good info.

  • @gregcampbell5530
    @gregcampbell5530 2 місяці тому +1

    Everybody says not to dump your gray tanks on the ground but you’re taking showers and washing your dishes on the ground, so what’s the difference?

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 місяці тому

      So on the surface, it appears to be apples-to-apples. And there are lots of people who have views about whether you should even shower outside and/or dump sink water from a bin onto the ground. Here's something to consider that we learned from a very seasoned RV repairman... bacteria is the enemy of any tank. He said gray water can be as bad or worse than black because people don't think about the fact that food particles are left to basically rot inside the gray tank. It's more than just soapy water. Its festering water that sits stagnant and bacteria can explode in it... So, apples to apples, it is probably only slightly better to shower outdoors/dump sink water directly on the ground. However, things are changing and this video is OLD. Newer BLM regulations don't permit dumping grey water at this point. It used to be, when we first started RVing, that even black tank was acceptable if you were X feet from the road/water and you dug a hole Y deep. That's not the case anymore. But still, someone needs to talk to/enforce all of the DIY builders who don't build vans/rigs with proper toilets and who still do their duty al natural. That's something we won't do and wont have any videos on!

  • @blessedveteran
    @blessedveteran 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you.

  • @alphaomeg1
    @alphaomeg1 3 роки тому +1

    Good tips!

  • @heiditaylor616
    @heiditaylor616 10 місяців тому +1

    Aldis shoppers! Yay

  • @RVingwithLuck
    @RVingwithLuck 2 роки тому +1

    Great advice.

  • @Jerseydaves
    @Jerseydaves 3 місяці тому +1

    Thanks for the info 😊5/25/25 hope to see you !

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 місяці тому +1

      Keep the dream in focus! God-willing it all works out for you!

  • @richardkoch8752
    @richardkoch8752 3 роки тому +4

    You forgot the number one most important thing to have: A First Aid Kit including a tourniquet. Little accidents and BIG accidents do happen. Also a bottle of uncoated aspirin. Important to take in case of a heart attack....can save precious time while waiting for EMS

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Great advice! We didn't think to differentiate between what RV items are necessities regardless of dry camping or not. Thanks for pointing that out for our other viewers!

  • @alfredstaude3955
    @alfredstaude3955 4 роки тому +1

    Good advises, thank`s ! Best Regards, Alfred

  • @drbrown2402
    @drbrown2402 3 роки тому +2

    I use LED lights on my solar panels at night and get the batteries charged while using less power.. I have amorphous panels they produce energy off Any light.... 25 watts used. 500 lumens produced get 90+ watt return to Batts....

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Thats a pretty nifty system! Thanks for sharing!

  • @PSD9737-ML
    @PSD9737-ML 4 роки тому +1

    Some great ideas. Thanks!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Glad you like them! Thanks for watching and reaching out!

    • @PSD9737-ML
      @PSD9737-ML 4 роки тому

      @@CalledToWander We've purchased a new truck camper and can't wait for the snow to melt and get boondocking. Thanks again. 🇨🇦

  • @alphatruckhouse8223
    @alphatruckhouse8223 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks for the info ! Don's forget to use your puppy poop bags .. Happy Holidays ~peace~

  • @ppineault
    @ppineault 3 роки тому +1

    great tips!...thanks so much for the video :)

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and reaching out!

    • @ppineault
      @ppineault 3 роки тому

      @@CalledToWander Very welcome and fingers crossed that you'll reach 5000 subscribers...woohoo!! 😉👍

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      @@ppineault 19 more to go! Thanks for your positivity!

    • @ppineault
      @ppineault 3 роки тому

      @@CalledToWander lol....HOORAY! 🤗

  • @olgaguer6443
    @olgaguer6443 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you!!

  • @louvasta6gmailcom
    @louvasta6gmailcom 3 роки тому +1

    more info on cell booster please

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      We used the WeBoost cell extender. It definitely helped us out a few times when we needed the extra cell service and it is incredibly valuable for us to be able to work on the road. Check out the different RV options here: weboost.referralrock.com/l/1CHRISTOPHE50/

  • @larrywiddis470
    @larrywiddis470 2 роки тому

    I have some concerns about dumping any water on the ground. In certain areas that are sparsely used and have certain soils, maybe. In heavily used areas and/or wet soils, I urge no dumping of water on the ground.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Good ideas but even BLM has guidelines for properly disposing of grey water.

  • @kr639
    @kr639 3 роки тому +2

    ....or let your dogs pre-wash your dishes! lol
    My doggies do a great job!!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      We have Chris for that. Dogs don't stand a chance against him at crumbs or leftover sauce. We're cheap. We can't afford to waste crumbs and sauce. ;)

  • @JarheadAndGingersJourney
    @JarheadAndGingersJourney 4 роки тому +1

    Very useful tips. Thanks for sharing.

  • @BradleyProulx
    @BradleyProulx 3 роки тому +1

    Great video ! Thanks.

  • @DigitalimageryTV
    @DigitalimageryTV 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you

  • @andrewm9207
    @andrewm9207 4 роки тому +3

    Really helpful video for someone like me with little experience just getting started. Thank you!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Glad it was helpful! Let us know anything else we can share that will help you on the road! Thanks for reaching out!

  • @nwyoda8792
    @nwyoda8792 3 роки тому

    can you show us how you mounted the bikes on the ladder? or tips on how to mount 2 kayaks?

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Hey sorry we sold the truck camper a few months back. But the ladder racks mount easily with 2 ratchet straps. Then the rack itself has two rubber bands that you slide over the bike frame and clip into place. We used a lock to lock our 2 bikes together to the ladder. And then the bikes still moved around a bit so we used a 3rd ratcheting strap to secure the bikes to the ladder directly... as for the kayaks, we have an inflatable kayak and inflatable SUP so we never had kayak racks. But depending on whether you want to put a rack on the roof or have a rear, bumper-mount you may be able to secure kayaks that way. Hope this helps!

  • @northerniltree
    @northerniltree 2 роки тому +3

    Saving water is the first priority. When I need to wash my hands, I'll take in a mouthful of water (in colder weather, I'll hold it for a minute or two) and then dribble it directly on my hands as needed while scrubbing. Usually, one or two mouthfuls does the job. Uses about 4-5 ounces of water. For showers, I use a 2 gallon garden pump sprayer with very warm water. This can be mounted at a regular shower head height. Usually, 1 gallon does it. Being bald helps. Now, the getting serious part of water conservation: Have a 5 gallon pail with a toilet seat that fits to the top with brackets.
    Put a quality 5-gallon wastebasket plastic bag into the bucket. Do your business, then place the bag into a separate 5-gallon bucket (Outdoors, it smells, so hold your breath) and "securely" snap down the lid. When full, duct tape it closed. Always have another spare bucket to replace the discarded one.
    This set-up works for 2 people for about a week. The bucket can be thrown away in a distant dumpster (carefully). It is not illegal to dispose of human waste in this manner. But, you absolutely have to be discrete. Place the bucket inside a regular garbage bag with other light garbage. This may seem extreme, but it saves a LOT of water, and keeps the black tank empty. Understandably not everyone will want to do this, as it is an extreme tactic in extreme conditions. But, it works if you run low on options.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Very creative!

    • @northerniltree
      @northerniltree 2 роки тому

      @@CalledToWander Necessity is a mother.

    • @heathertc9026
      @heathertc9026 Рік тому +1

      Please do NOT dispose of urine or feces in dumpsters, etc.! Urine, feces, & vomit are all categorized as bodily fluids and are considered biohazards due to the presence of bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Coming into contact with human waste can cause serious health risks such as norovirus, dehydration, and parasitic infections. There are dump stations, port-a-potties, rest stops, etc. that are equipped to handle your black water! When one camper is irresponsible and looks bad, we ALL like bad!

  • @FerMuBe
    @FerMuBe 3 роки тому +1

    That's an epidemic track!!!

  • @Jerseydaves
    @Jerseydaves 5 місяців тому +1

    Thanks for the tips my journey will start June 2025 PEACE ☮️

  • @Aeroguy-ob9eb
    @Aeroguy-ob9eb 7 місяців тому +1

    For water, get a portawell.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  6 місяців тому

      Not a bad idea if you are in a spot where you have access to water that you can filter

  • @annblair4459
    @annblair4459 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you
    How much solar do you have ?

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому +1

      Now with our class C we have 640W of Renogy panels. 4 x 160W. We connected 2 sets of panels in series and then tied them together in parallel before bringing them into our Renogy 40 amp MPPT controller which feeds our 420 ah AGM batteries. In this truck camper we used to have we have 300W solar only in parallel to the same 40 amp controller tied to 200 ah AGM batteries. All Renogy. If you go Renogy reach out via email and we'll send you a 10% off discount code!

  • @acceptingWhatIS
    @acceptingWhatIS 3 роки тому +1

    thanx!!

  • @jgpietsch
    @jgpietsch 2 роки тому

    Thoughts on these gas prices... $45 to drive a hundred miles with a big camper on back is cramping my style!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому +1

      No kidding! Travel slower, stay longer...

  • @joycejohnson1396
    @joycejohnson1396 3 роки тому +1

    You forgot Lucci lights they are great.

  • @slmjake
    @slmjake 3 роки тому +1

    Did you guys replace rhe truck camper with another type of rv?

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Yep! Here's the tour of our new home, a 31' Class C motorhome we completely remodeled. ua-cam.com/video/ytq0q5xeQ0I/v-deo.html

  • @bobbleheadwil5400
    @bobbleheadwil5400 4 роки тому

    We've been considering adding one of those solar-tube showers to our Arctic Fox 865 however, not quite sure where I can mount it where it's accessible on my TC.
    Being disabled, it's not always easy for me to be able to access the top of my camper. We've tried using a solar shower bag, that we used a command hook on the side of my ladder. We really liked it, but the capacity wasn't very useful for two people. This is why we've been considering installing a solar tube, giving us a greater capacity of water. May I ask, do you know anyone who has used one of these solar-tubes? And have you heard any honest bad/good feedback about using them? I was just curious.
    As usual guys, great video, lots of helpful information, thanks. 👍👍😁

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому +1

      We thought about adding one to our camper roof and realized the same incredible difficulty/inconvenience of using it (plus it would make us even more top heavy). So I (Chris) settled for the 1-gal container method for outdoor shower. And when Lindsay showers outside I crank on the hot water heater and give her the outdoor shower (she always gets the best!). As for our experience with the tubes, we've only really seen them in vans and the people who had them use them very efficiently (painted black, sometimes with a pump to help pressurize). But vans roofs are significantly lower and more accessible. I've also been in the middle ground between the gallon and the tube by using one of the scepter 5-gal containers and a hose. Lots of ways to be creative!

  • @ericbojiang4184
    @ericbojiang4184 9 місяців тому

    where is that scene with the lake in the desert , anybody knows?

  • @carlaifera5254
    @carlaifera5254 3 роки тому

    .... Nice channel... ✨

  • @Hm-bz4ps
    @Hm-bz4ps 2 роки тому +1

    You forgot to blur out your license plate at 15:05

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  2 роки тому

      Thanks! We long since sold the truck and turned in the tags!

  • @DanielGonzalez-un6rz
    @DanielGonzalez-un6rz 3 роки тому +1

    13:14 your tags aren't blurred

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Thanks! An overlook but we have long since sold the truck and camper and sent the tags back to the DMV. Thanks for looking out for us!

  • @truckcampertraveler7369
    @truckcampertraveler7369 4 роки тому +1

    well done!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks!

    • @truckcampertraveler7369
      @truckcampertraveler7369 4 роки тому +1

      @@CalledToWander im gonna hitbthe road for a mo next week leaving san diego to sedona in my lance 835 truck camper :)

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      @@truckcampertraveler7369 We did some great boondocking up against the red rocks just outside of Sedona back in the day. Our first boondocking experience... ahh the memories! Enjoy the trip! Stay safe!

    • @truckcampertraveler7369
      @truckcampertraveler7369 4 роки тому

      @@CalledToWander I might check that out thanks im looking for a place to ride my side by side while I boondock

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому +1

      @@truckcampertraveler7369 Check out Loy Butte Road to the southwest of Sedona. There are TONS of spots on iOverlander. We went to the furthest one along we could find, pretty much right up against a big red rock face. Tons of tracks to take your sidebyside. Far enough away from Sedona to feel out there but close enough to go in and enjoy a slice of pizza and a beer (that's all we did). GPS: 34.86817, -111.90397

  • @nancyst.john-smith3891
    @nancyst.john-smith3891 7 місяців тому

    Solar panels in the shade!😅

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  6 місяців тому

      We camped here for the beauty of the fall colors in the FInger Lakes not the video.

  • @larrysmith7118
    @larrysmith7118 7 місяців тому

    some places are ok with dumping your grey water. just crack the valve and let it leak out

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  6 місяців тому

      We've yet to find any advertisements saying "Feel free to dump your grey water while you camp!" However, there is an unspoken camping policy that supports your point that grey water tends to be less harmful (bacteria) than black water. But it can be full of equally bad bacteria and can stink as bad (but differently) and NOBODY wants to roll up on a campsite where someone just leaked out their grey tank and pulled out before you roll up. The best we've heard is that people have valves to drip grey water on the interstate as they drive, one drop every 88 feet at 60 mph is likely not going to do any damage to anyone. But note, even this is not something we promote.

  • @penntuckeybackwoods8201
    @penntuckeybackwoods8201 4 роки тому

    I grill every day I don't cook in my camper stock up on charcoal

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  4 роки тому

      Thats a lot of charcoal! Thanks for sharing.

  • @joehaines8585
    @joehaines8585 3 роки тому

    the end of your video your lic plate was exposed if wanted to know

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      Thanks! We’ve long since given the plate back to the DMV but yes, definitely saw that too late!

  • @Bakerman73
    @Bakerman73 11 місяців тому

    Good tips! Tho you are RVing not camping. You are sleeping in a building

  • @kennethwers
    @kennethwers 3 роки тому +1

    A composting toilet will eliminate most of your water use.

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  3 роки тому

      We actually built one into our new RV just for that purpose!

  • @captcooper5159
    @captcooper5159 Рік тому

    12:43. Look at your vehicle. Notice something?

  • @MannyWC
    @MannyWC Рік тому +1

    Just no generators!!!!

    • @CalledToWander
      @CalledToWander  Рік тому

      Generators are fine to use and part of dry camping/boondocking as long as you know how to be respectful in using it/not camping on top of other people

    • @MannyWC
      @MannyWC Рік тому +1

      @@CalledToWander alllll the boondockers that don’t disturb the peace or pollute disagree. If generator people would all stay together -away from the dry campers/ solar/battery sufficient peeps, then yeah, go for it!