We’re two weeks into our 42-day boondocking off-grid adventure in our big rig, and we’ve got so much to share with you! From finding the perfect spots to managing our daily work routines, we’ve been learning and adapting every step of the way. Our 44-foot Alliance Valor toy hauler has been our home base as we explore the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado, and we’re excited to give you an inside look at what life is really like when you’re living off the grid in a big rig.
How Do We Find Perfect Boondocking Spots for Our 44-foot Big Rig?
Finding the ideal boondocking spot for our 44-foot Alliance Valor toy hauler requires careful planning and research. We’ve developed a system that combines multiple resources to ensure we find locations that can accommodate our rig and meet our needs for work and relaxation.
Our process typically includes:
- Using RV Life Trip Wizard for overall trip planning (get a 7 day trial)
- Checking Campendium and iOverlander for potential spots and recent reviews
- Consulting Facebook groups like “Boondocking for Big Rigs” for insider tips
- Watching videos from fellow RVers who’ve visited the area (We love The Wandering Shores)
- Scouting locations in person before bringing in our big rig
We often stay at a campground for a night to dump tanks and fill fresh water before heading to our boondocking spot. This strategy allows us to arrive at our off-grid location fully prepared for an extended stay.
What’s Daily Life Really Like for Working Nomads Living Off-Grid?
Contrary to what some might think, our days aren’t filled with constant exploration and leisure. As working nomads, we maintain a structured routine that balances our professional responsibilities with the joys of RV life.
A typical workday for us looks like this:
- Barry starts early, around 4:30 AM, to align with Eastern Time work hours
- Darlene begins her day at 6 AM, mixing client work with managing our YouTube channel
- We use Starlink to ensure reliable internet connectivity for video calls and uploads
- Evenings and weekends are dedicated to exploring our surroundings, hiking, and fishing
Living off-grid doesn’t mean sacrificing modern conveniences. We still stream movies, work out, and enjoy our hobbies. Barry is even teaching himself to play guitar, practicing every morning and evening. The key difference is the breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings that serve as the backdrop to our daily activities.
How Much Does Boondocking Actually Cost? Our Two-Week Expense Breakdown
One of the biggest advantages of boondocking is the potential for significant cost savings. We’ve carefully tracked our expenses during our first two weeks of this 42-day boondocking adventure. Here’s a breakdown of our costs:
- Propane: $118 (used for cooking, heating, and occasional generator use)
- Laundry: $10
- Dump station fee: $20
- Gasoline for generator: $45
- Total: $193 for two weeks, averaging $13.79 per day
It’s worth noting that our costs were significantly higher than usual due to some solar panel issues that required more generator use, and way more gasoline. Under normal circumstances, we expect our daily expenses to be about HALF of this amount.
What Challenges Do We Face When Boondocking and How Do We Overcome Them?
Boondocking, especially in a big rig, comes with its unique set of challenges. During this trip, we encountered a few hurdles:
- Solar panel malfunction: We discovered one whole array wasn’t working, requiring a replacement part
- Generator issues: We had to troubleshoot and repair our generator
- Limited resources: Managing water, power, and waste requires careful planning
To overcome these challenges, we:
- Always have backup power options (like our generator)
- Carry essential tools and spare parts for quick repairs
- Constantly monitor our resource usage and plan accordingly
- Stay flexible and adapt our plans when necessary
Is Boondocking Worth It? Balancing Freedom, Nature, and Convenience
For us, the answer is a resounding yes! Despite the occasional challenges, boondocking offers unparalleled experiences and benefits:
- Spectacular views: Our current spot offers stunning vistas of Colorado’s mountains
- Peace and quiet: Especially after staying in busy campgrounds, the tranquility is priceless
- Cost savings: As our expense breakdown shows, it’s significantly cheaper than most campgrounds
- Connection with nature: We’re surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife
While we do sacrifice some conveniences of full-hookup campgrounds, the trade-off is more than worth it. The freedom to wake up in remote, beautiful locations, the sense of self-sufficiency, and the money we save all contribute to making boondocking an integral part of our RV lifestyle.
THIS Is our Why- for boondocking
As we look back on these first two weeks of our boondocking adventure, we’re reminded of why we chose this lifestyle in the first place. Sure, we’ve faced some challenges, but the rewards far outweigh any temporary inconveniences. The peace and quiet, the stunning views, and the sense of freedom we experience daily make it all worthwhile. We’re excited to continue our journey, learning and adapting as we go, and we can’t wait to share more of our experiences with you. Whether you’re a seasoned boondocker or just curious about the lifestyle, we hope our insights have given you a realistic peek into the world of off-grid living in a big rig. Here’s to the next leg of our adventure – may it be filled with even more beautiful sunsets, peaceful mornings, and unforgettable memories!
