How-to Choose an Inverter for a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post & calculator will teach you how to properly size an inverter for your camper based on YOUR needs.
read moreHow-To Wire Lights & Switches in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
These wiring diagrams will show you how to wire 12v lights & switches into your campervan. 2-way switches too!
read moreHow-to Wire 12v Accessories in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This tutorial will teach you how to wire 12v accessories & plugs in your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Size Fuses in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This guide will instruct you how to accurately size fuses for your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Choose Wire Sizes DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post will teach you how to choose the proper wire sizes for your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Install a Battery Monitor in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This article will teach you why you need & how to wire a battery monitor in your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Charge a Camper Van Electrical System with the Alternator
This guide will teach you how to charge your camper house batteries with your engine alternator.
read moreHow-to Choose a Battery Isolator for a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post will teach you how to choose the proper battery isolator for your camper electrical system.
read moreHow-to Choose a Solar Charge Controller for a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This guide & calculator will help you accurate select the proper solar charge controller for your campers electrical build.
read moreHow Many Batteries are needed in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post will teach you how to size the battery bank in your camper according to YOUR needs.
read moreHow Many Solar Panels are Needed to Power a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This tutorial will instruct you on how many solar panels you need for your camper electrical system based on YOUR needs.
read more36 Things to do in Steamboat Springs in Winter
There's more to Steamboat Springs than just skiing. Here's some ideas you may have not thought of:
read moreRV Parks & Campgrounds near Ski Resorts
Camping in the ski resort parking lot is generally a thing of the past. Here are some known, legal places to park the RV nearby and set up camp.
read moreInteractive DIY Solar Wiring Diagrams for Campers, Van's & RV's
These interactive solar wiring diagrams are a complete A-Z solution for a DIY camper electrical build.
read moreGoal Zero vs Kodiak vs DIY Camper Van Solar
Here a 5 questions to ask yourself when trying to decide on a DIY vs Solar Generator solution for your camper electrical build.
read moreBasic Parts of a DIY Camper Solar Setup
This post outlines all of the main parts and components of a DIY Camper Solar setup.
read moreHow Much Does Van Life Cost?
The price of Van Life varies DRAMATICALLY from person to person, but this blog post shows OUR actual average cost per month from the last 12 months.
read moreBooks to Read for Travel Inspiration
Looking for a new read to spark some travel inspiration? Check these out:
read moreBody Glove Dynamo Ribcage Water Shoe Review
We tested the Body Glove Ribcage water shoes. We travel light. When space is a premium means multi-purpose, high-performing gear is a priority.
read moreGoPro HERO 7 vs HERO 6 Stabilization Comparison
The GoPro HERO 7 is labled as the Gimbal Killer. Is it? Here is our side by side comparison so you can see for yourself.
read moreApps to Save you Money while Traveling
Traveling can be expensive. These apps can help you find savings around every corner so you can travel longer and spend your money on things that ACTUALLY matter.
read moreHow to Design and Install Solar on a Camper Van
Learn EVERYTHING you need to know about designing and installing a solar setup on your camper van, RV, or truck camper.
read moreIs Nomadic Life for You?
Living a Nomadic Lifestyle isn't all sprinkles and unicorns. Can you give make these sacrifices for a life of “Freedom”?
read moreIdeas About How to Make Money on the Road
Not having a job tie us to physical locations gives us the flexibility to work from anywhere. Here are some of our best ideas for making money while traveling:
read moreGoodbye Adventure in a Backpack – Hello EXPLORIST.life
Looking for Adventure in a Backpack? You're in the right spot. We've just got a new name that doesn't make people think we sell backpacks.
read moreThe Hardest Part of Building a DIY Camper Van
Insulation? Solar? Heating? Maybe not. THIS is what we think is the hardest part of building a DIY Camper Van Conversion.
read moreChoosing a Solar Battery Bank for a DIY Camper Van Conversion
Lithium vs AGM. As technology gets better, the prices get higher. Is the added cost worth it? Here's our thoughts:
read moreHow-To Change The Oil in a 2007 Sprinter Van
Changing the oil in a Sprinter is a straightforward process. Save some $$$ and do it yourself. Here's how:
read moreWhat's included in a Sprinter Service A and Service B
Sprinter Service A? Sprinter Service B? What is included in those? This blog post will outline what's what so you can take it in to the dealer or do it yourself.
read moreHiking Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons in Escalante Utah
One of our favorite adventures of all time. This one is quite out of the way, but the effort is rewarded with the COOLEST hike in one of the more remote areas of the country.
read moreHow to Replace the Shocks on a Sprinter Camper Van
Rock and roll. Good on the radio. Not so good for camper van handling. Here's how to replace the shocks on a Sprinter Camper Van:
read moreThings to do at Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is a geologic playground just outside Las Vegas. It's a dog friendly state park with some awesome hiking trails. Here are our recommendations:
read morePlasti Dip Review after One Year on the Road
Plasti Dip is essentially a spray on vinyl wrap. Here's how it's held up after a year of abuse on the road:
read moreThe Outdoor Gear Builders of Western North Carolina
North Carolina is home to many outdoor gear companies. We spent a weekend in Asheville to tell their story of “Extraordinary Gear made Here”. (This is one of our favorites)
read moreHow to Get Mail While Traveling Full Time
Getting mail while traveling isn't as simple as a post office visit. Here are the hoops we have to jump through to get mail and packages while on the road:
read moreWinter Van Life at Mammoth Mountain
Season 1, Episode 8 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Mammoth Mountain to ski prime spring conditions and find campsites with hot springs just steps from our door.
read moreInstalling a 4g Cell Signal Booster on our DIY Camper Van Conversion
Since we work from the road, having a strong cell signal is vital. Here's how we get faste enough 4g to upload videos, have skype calls, and all the other business logistics:
read moreWinter Van Life in Squaw Valley
Season 1, Episode 7 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us back into the US where we visited skied at Squaw Valley and Hiked at Lake Tahoe.
read more2WD vs 4×4 Camper Van – Which is Necessary?
Nobody is questioning if 4×4 is more capable than 2WD… but is the added cost absolutely necessary to have an adventure camper van? We say no, and here's why:
read moreWinter Van Life at Revelstoke, British Columbia
Season 1, Episode 6 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Revelstoke BC to ski the 5,000ft vertical this INCREDIBLE mountain has to offer.
read moreDometic Origo 3000 Camper Van Alcohol Stove Review
The Dometic Origo 3000 Alcohol stove is an alcohol fueled stove that doesn't have pressurized containers which makes is a good option for cooking in a camper van.
read moreWinter Van Life in Lake Louise, Alberta
Season 1, Episode 5 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Lake Louise where we skied beautiful terrain and walked across frozen Lake Louise to frozen waterfalls.
read moreHow to Get Insurance on a DIY Camper Van
Getting insurance for a camper van is a pain and it varies from state to state, but here are some tips to get your DIY camper van conversion insured Properly
read moreWinter Van Life in Banff, Alberta
Season 1, Episode 4 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Banff to ski at Sunshine Village and Soak up the sights in this beautiful town.
read moreWinter Van Life in Bozeman, Montana
Season 1, Episode 3 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Bozeman where we batted van breakdowns, getting stuck, and awesome skiing at Bridger Bowl
read moreHow to Read and Clear the Check Engine Light on a Sprinter
Check engine lights are part of #Vanlife. Here is how to read and clear a check engine light on a Sprinter.
read moreWinter Van Life in Sun Valley, Idaho
Season 1, Episode 8 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to
read moreEspar D2 Diesel Heater Review
As temps plummeted to sub-zero temps with wind forcing it's way into every seam, we were ultimately impressed with it's performance.
read more7 Can’t Miss Winter Activities in Jackson Hole
There's more to Jackson Hole Wyoming in the winter than just skiing. Here are a few extra ideas if you decide to take a ‘day off'.
read moreBackcountry Skiing near Park City, Utah
We met up with some of our friends (who just happen to be Backcountry ski guides) for an awesome day of walking uphill and skiing back down. (1st time backcountry skiing!)
read moreHow to Prepare a Camper Van for Winter Living
Our camper van wasn't 100% ready for winter time living when we ‘finished' it, so we had some adjustments to make. Here's what we changed:
read moreWinter Vanlife in Park City, Utah
If you need a day off from skiing in Park City, here are a few suggestions for fun things to do in Park City in the winter:
read moreEspar D2 Diesel Heater Installation
The Espar D2 heater is the diesel powered heater we use to heat our van in frigid winter conditions. Here's how to install one:
read moreBest Things About Living in a Van
Living in a van provides extreme flexibility. Here is our list of the things we like best about living in a van.
read moreSurf Trip to the Baja California
This is the story abou the time we took a guided trip down into the Baja California into mexico in search of tacos, surfing, adventure, and tacos.
read moreWhy You Should Visit Sequoia National Park in the Fall
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. These two reasons and more are why you should visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park in the Fall.
read moreBeginner Rock Climbing in Joshua Tree
It's easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of climbing available in Joshua Tree. Here are some of our ‘Beginner Friendly' areas:
read moreWhy we “Sold it All” to Live in a Van
Everbody has their own reasons for moving into a van. Here's ours:
read moreTop 7 Things to Do when Driving Hwy 1; The Pacific Coast HWY
Sure, hwy 1 has beautiful views… but it's still a LONG road that needs to be broken up. Here are some things to do to get out and stretch your legs.
read moreGoPro Hero6 Black Review: Initial Impressions
The Gopro 6 introduced the highest frame rates available in the Gopro Line. Here are our initial thoughts:
read moreTop 10 Van Life Must Haves
We aren't talking about “Lights” or “Insulation”. These are the items that turned our DIY Camper Van into a Home.
read moreVan Life Safety – 6 Tips for Protecting Yourself and Your Stuff
Safety & Living on the Road. Do these go hand in hand? Maybe not, but here are some considerations to stay safe while living in a van in the middle of nowhere.
read moreThe 6 Ways We Make Money While Traveling Full-Time
There are literally hundreds (thousands?) of ways to make money while traveling. Here are our 6 income streams we have for life on the road:
read more12 Money Saving Tips to Help you Travel Longer for Cheaper
For life on the road, you don't have to earn as much if you can spend less. Here are our money saving tips for traveling longer and more often.
read morePCT Days – Pacific Crest Trail Celebration
PCT Days is an awesome event every summer that's a celebration of one of the premiere long hikes in the US. The Pacific Crest Trail.
read moreCave Hikes at Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho
Craters of the Moon is an out-of-the-way National Monument that has one of the most interesting landscapes in the world. Here are some caves to explore on a day trip:
read moreCamelBak Pursuit Series Review
A summer camp for adults led by pro adventure guides and athletes where you can learn that new activity you've been wanting to try and hone skills on your favorites.
read moreTop 10 Things to do in Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa is a great city with something always going on. Here are 10 ideas for adventure in and around Ottawa.
read moreFree Dispersed Camping near Lake Ontario in the Winona State Forest, New York
This free camp site is a great stop if you are headed north through New York before entering Canada. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreVan Tour of Our Complete DIY Campervan Conversion
Our custom DIY camper van features 800+ watts of solar, a composting toilet, full size bed, custom cabinets, fully insulated and much more. Read more about the nitty gritty details here:
read moreFree Dispersed Camping in Cherokee National Forest near Asheville, North Carolina
This free campsite features an awesome swimming hole with natural rock waterslide within walking distance. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreFree Dispersed Camping Near Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
This free dispersed camp site near Taos features a snow fed creek and close proximity to the town of Taos and the ski resort. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreInstalling Full-Body Plasti Dip on our DIY Camper Van Conversion
Plasti-dip is essentially a spray on vinyl wrap but is 10x cheaper. It's was a big job, but here's how we did it:
read moreFree Dispersed Camping Near the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
This free camp site is great spot near the Great Sand Dunes National Park at the foot of the 14,344 ft tall Blanca Peak. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreBuilding DIY Camper Van Cabinets
Building the cabinets & storage in our Camper Van was a huge challenge, especially since it was our first time. Although, not necessarily a in-depth tutorial, here is how we built them:
read moreHow to Build a Ceiling in a DIY Camper Van Conversion
The Ceiling in our van is made from an old fence, sealed, and attached to furring strips. Here's how we made and installed it:
read moreHow to Install Walls in a DIY Camper Van Conversion
The walls in our van is made from dry erase board so we ALWAYS have something to keep notes on. Here's how we installed it:
read moreHow to Install Insulation a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We insulated our van for both hot and cold weather with rigid foam and expanding foam insulation. Here's how we did it and why we chose what we did:
read moreHow to Install a Maxxair Roof Vent Fan in a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We have two Maxxair vent fans on our roof which can exchange all the air inside the van once every 20 seconds to keep us cool. Here's how we installed them:
read moreHow to Soundproof DIY Camper Van Conversion
Without soundproofing material, our van was like a tin can driving down the road. After… it was like a much quieter tin can. Here's how we installed it:
read moreHow to Remove the Door Panels in a Mercedes Sprinter
If you need to access the inner workings of your sprinter door for speaker installation or insulation, you'll have to remove the door panel. Here's how to do it:
read moreHow to Remove the Headliner in a Mercedes Sprinter
There is a huge open space behind the sprinter headliner that needs to have sound deadening applied and insulation attached. Here's how to remove the headliner:
read moreHow to Remove the Seats in a Mercedes Sprinter
You'll need to remove the seats in your sprinter to install swivel seats or acess the nice hidden ‘storage' area for, perhaps, a heater install. Here's how to remove them:
read moreHow to Prep the Floor for a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We took the stock floor of our van since it used to be a plumbing truck (that floor = gross). Here's how to remove it:
read more5 Reasons We Traded Our RV to Build a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We sold our 40 foot class-A motorhome to build a MUCH smaller camper van. Here are a few reasons we downsized:
read moreEco Hostel in San Juan del Sur Nicaragua – Casa Oro
Walls made from trash and food scraps used to grow more food. This hostel in Nicaragua aims to be a totally closed loop of sustainable business practices:
read moreMango Rosa Nicaragua Adventure & Surf Resort Review
Finding an ‘Adventure Resort' that can keep up with us is a tall task, but on our visit, we were met with more hiking, surfing, volcano viewing, and cultural submursion than we could ask for.
read more6 Things To Do in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua
San Juan Del Sur in southern Nicaragua is one of our favorite places we've EVER been. Here's a few things to do there that makes this place an explorers dream:
read moreHotel Camino Real – Best Hotel near the Airport in Managua, Nicaragua
Flying to Nicaragua is typically an all day ordeal. This hotel is directly across the street from the hotel and makes for a great first and last night pit stop before exploring the rest of the country:
read moreAn Adventure in Traveling Nicaragua
Nicaragua is filled with adventure. This trip with some friends was one of the best weeks of our lives. This video is the story:
read more5 Things to Do during 24 Hours in Seattle
Seattle is home to some iconic landmarks. Here are 5 things to do on a short stop-over in Seattle:
read moreFree Boondocking Campsite near Lillooet, British Columbia
Lillooet is just north of the pass from Whistler. It's a rugged canyon with a beautiful lake and frigid stream and a free, established campground:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Seward, Alaska
Seward Alaska is home of Exit Glacier. Here is a free campsite in the area. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreExit Glacier Trail Hiking near Seward, Alaska
Need to see the results of climate change for yourself? Exit Glacier is a great demonstration with year markers noting where the glacier was in past years:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Peterson Lake, Alaska
This free camp site on the Kenai Peninsula is right next to a beautiful lake that's perfect for paddling. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreWhere to Stay and Things to do near Homer, Alaska
You want to see bald eagles up close? Anchor Point near Homer Alaska is your spot. Here's where to stay (and some other things to do once you get tired of taking pictures of eagles from 10′ away)
read more6 Things to Do in Whittier Alaska
To get to Whittier Alaska You've got to drive down a one-way road – through a tunnel – straddling the train tracks – because you're sharing the road with a train:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Portage Glacier in Alaska
The road leading to Portage Lake in Alaska has all kinds of free camping. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreKayaking in Portage Lake to Portage Glacier in Alaska
We kayaked across an ice cold lake to a glacier, back across the lake and down a river, then rode our bikes back to the lake. Oh, the things that can be done with 24hrs of daylight in Alaska:
read moreHiking to the Winner Creek Trail Hand Tram in Girdwood, Alaska
A hiking trail that features a hand powered tram suspended across a raging Alaskan river. This is one of our favorite hikes:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Denali National Park
Nabbing a camp site inside of Denali National Park is tricky. Here's where we stayed for free on forest land just outside of the park. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read more2 Day Itinerary With RV Camping in Denali National Park
Denali national park is rugged and HUGE. Two days doesn't do it justice but here are a few things to do to get the most bang for your time on a quick trip into Denali National park:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsites and Cheap Campgrounds near Fairbanks, Alaska
There is plenty of free and inexpensive camping near fairbanks. Here is our list of the places we saw or stayed at. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreRV and Van Life with Dogs – Things to Consider
Van Life with dogs can be a great experience, but it can also be a traumatizing experience for all parties involved. Here are a few considerations:
read moreKayaking Lake Mcdonald & Mcdonald Creek in Glacier National Park, Montana
One of our FAVORITE Adventures: Kayaking in Glacier National Park in the crystal clear Mcdonald Lake, down Mcdonald creek to the Flathead river then bike shuttling back to the lake:
read moreFree Campsite Near Yellowstone National Park
This free campsite is a free county camp ground featuring a lake and more bird species than we could count. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking to Lone Star Geyser in Yellowstone National Park
Old Faithful was crowded and featured a boardwalk and a fence making it seem more like a man-made water fountain than a natural geyser. Here is a better alternative:
read moreThings to See in Yellowstone National Park in One Day
We only had one day to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Here are some of the hot spots (geo-thermal joke) to see when time is valuable:
read more7-10 Day Southern Utah National Park Road Trip Itinerary
This road trip Itenerary through southern Utah includes 5 National Parks, free camp sites, supply refill points, and adventure ideas. This one one of our favorites:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Zion National Park in Utah
There is plenty of BLM land for free camping near Zion National Park. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park: Things to Know
Angles Landing in Zion National Park is the most popular hike in the park. Dealing with an over-crowded trail was scarier than the 1,000+ foot sheer drop on each side:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Bryce Canyon National Park
There is free camping in National Forest land right outside of the Bryce Canyon National park gates. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking Fairyland Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park
This is a necessary hike if you are going to Bryce Canyon. It's a longer, more challenging hike which means it's less crowded, but it accesses some of the best scenery in the park:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite in Escalante Utah
Escalante Utah is one of the most ruggedly beautiful locations in the US. There is unlimited potential for adventure. Free camping is easy to find in the area, but here is a good spot. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking Cottonwood Narrows near Cannonville Utah
Cottonwood Narrows is a good hike for someone who wants to see slot canyons but may be a bit claustrophobic as these sandstone canyons are a bit wider.
read moreHiking the Peek a Boo and Spooky Gulch Slot Canyons near Escalante Utah
Hiking Peekaboo and Spooky Slot canyons is one of our favorite hikes ever. Deep in Southern Utah, this loop hike is a must-do:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Capitol Reef National Park
Just outside of Capitol Reef National Park is this great free campsite on BLM land next to a river. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking the Grand Wash Trail in Capitol Reef National Park
Grand Wash is a good hike for someone who wants to see slot canyons but may be a bit claustrophobic as these sandstone canyons are a bit wider.
read moreBeginner Rock Climbing in Moab Utah
There is so much rock climbing in Moab that it can be pretty overwhelming. Here is a beginner friendly area for rock climbing in Moab:
read moreWhere to See Dinosaur Fossils in Moab Utah
*Peddle, peddle, peddle* …”Hey, are those Dinosaur Fossils”? That's a normal thing in Moab Utah:
read moreBest Beginner Mountain Biking in Moab
There is so much mountain biking in Moab that it can be pretty overwhelming. Here is a beginner friendly trail away from the crowds on the more popular trails.
read moreHiking to Corona Arch in Moab Utah
Corona Arch. All of the arch, less of a crowd. This arch is not inside Arches National Park so you won't need a parks pass either:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite in Moab Utah
Moab is home to plentiful free camping. Here is an awesome spot. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreThings to See in 1 Day in Washington, DC
Washington DC is a deceptively big place where we ended up walking nearly 20 miles to see everything we wanted to see. Here were our favorite things we saw:
read moreHow to DIY Mount Snow Ski Bindings on Snow Skis at Home
Stubborn and like to do thing yourself you should probably leave up to a professional? Yeah, me too… Here's how to mount bindings onto snow skis at home:
read moreSnowmobiling in Grand Lake Colorado
There's plenty of snow in Grand Lake colorado, but no ski resorts. This makes it a PRIME destination to rent snomobiles for a good day of going off into deep snow, getting terribly stuck, and getting help from a half dozen icelandic guys (PLOT TWIST!!)
read moreBackpacking Eagle Rock Loop in the Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas
This was our very first overnight backpacking trip. It's an awesome 27ish mile loop trail through the Ouachita Mountains:
read moreDickinson P12000 Propane Heater Installation and Review
In our RV we installed this propane heater that vents to the outside, which decreases moisture while efficiently using fuel to keep costs low and temperatures up:
read moreTest Page
How to Score Big at an REI Garage Sale
An REI Garage Sale is where REI re-sales all of their gear that has been lightly used for STEEP discounts. It's a great event to score deals, but there's some stuff to know before you go so you don't waste your time & effort:
read moreCamping at Cathedral Lake near Aspen, Colorado
Cathedral Lake is a lake above treeline outside of Aspen Colorado that features a beautiful lake in a meadow of wildflowers below towering spires:
read more6 Steps to Find Amazing (and Free) Camp Sites
Here is how WE find all of our free campsites. Give a man a fish and you'll feed him for a day. Teach a fish to find free campsites and… well, you know how to old saying goes:
read moreHow-To Add Shore Power to a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This guide will teach you how to add shore power to your camper to charge batteries & power devices when you've got access to on-the-grid power.
read moreHow-to Choose an Inverter for a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post & calculator will teach you how to properly size an inverter for your camper based on YOUR needs.
read moreHow-To Wire Lights & Switches in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
These wiring diagrams will show you how to wire 12v lights & switches into your campervan. 2-way switches too!
read moreHow-to Wire 12v Accessories in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This tutorial will teach you how to wire 12v accessories & plugs in your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Size Fuses in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This guide will instruct you how to accurately size fuses for your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Choose Wire Sizes DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post will teach you how to choose the proper wire sizes for your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Install a Battery Monitor in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This article will teach you why you need & how to wire a battery monitor in your camper electrical build.
read moreHow-to Charge a Camper Van Electrical System with the Alternator
This guide will teach you how to charge your camper house batteries with your engine alternator.
read moreHow-to Choose a Battery Isolator for a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post will teach you how to choose the proper battery isolator for your camper electrical system.
read moreHow-to Choose a Solar Charge Controller for a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This guide & calculator will help you accurate select the proper solar charge controller for your campers electrical build.
read moreHow Many Batteries are needed in a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This blog post will teach you how to size the battery bank in your camper according to YOUR needs.
read moreHow Many Solar Panels are Needed to Power a DIY Camper Van Electrical System
This tutorial will instruct you on how many solar panels you need for your camper electrical system based on YOUR needs.
read more36 Things to do in Steamboat Springs in Winter
There's more to Steamboat Springs than just skiing. Here's some ideas you may have not thought of:
read moreRV Parks & Campgrounds near Ski Resorts
Camping in the ski resort parking lot is generally a thing of the past. Here are some known, legal places to park the RV nearby and set up camp.
read moreInteractive DIY Solar Wiring Diagrams for Campers, Van's & RV's
These interactive solar wiring diagrams are a complete A-Z solution for a DIY camper electrical build.
read moreGoal Zero vs Kodiak vs DIY Camper Van Solar
Here a 5 questions to ask yourself when trying to decide on a DIY vs Solar Generator solution for your camper electrical build.
read moreBasic Parts of a DIY Camper Solar Setup
This post outlines all of the main parts and components of a DIY Camper Solar setup.
read moreHow Much Does Van Life Cost?
The price of Van Life varies DRAMATICALLY from person to person, but this blog post shows OUR actual average cost per month from the last 12 months.
read moreBooks to Read for Travel Inspiration
Looking for a new read to spark some travel inspiration? Check these out:
read moreBody Glove Dynamo Ribcage Water Shoe Review
We tested the Body Glove Ribcage water shoes. We travel light. When space is a premium means multi-purpose, high-performing gear is a priority.
read moreGoPro HERO 7 vs HERO 6 Stabilization Comparison
The GoPro HERO 7 is labled as the Gimbal Killer. Is it? Here is our side by side comparison so you can see for yourself.
read moreApps to Save you Money while Traveling
Traveling can be expensive. These apps can help you find savings around every corner so you can travel longer and spend your money on things that ACTUALLY matter.
read moreHow to Design and Install Solar on a Camper Van
Learn EVERYTHING you need to know about designing and installing a solar setup on your camper van, RV, or truck camper.
read moreIs Nomadic Life for You?
Living a Nomadic Lifestyle isn't all sprinkles and unicorns. Can you give make these sacrifices for a life of “Freedom”?
read moreIdeas About How to Make Money on the Road
Not having a job tie us to physical locations gives us the flexibility to work from anywhere. Here are some of our best ideas for making money while traveling:
read moreGoodbye Adventure in a Backpack – Hello EXPLORIST.life
Looking for Adventure in a Backpack? You're in the right spot. We've just got a new name that doesn't make people think we sell backpacks.
read moreThe Hardest Part of Building a DIY Camper Van
Insulation? Solar? Heating? Maybe not. THIS is what we think is the hardest part of building a DIY Camper Van Conversion.
read moreChoosing a Solar Battery Bank for a DIY Camper Van Conversion
Lithium vs AGM. As technology gets better, the prices get higher. Is the added cost worth it? Here's our thoughts:
read moreHow-To Change The Oil in a 2007 Sprinter Van
Changing the oil in a Sprinter is a straightforward process. Save some $$$ and do it yourself. Here's how:
read moreWhat's included in a Sprinter Service A and Service B
Sprinter Service A? Sprinter Service B? What is included in those? This blog post will outline what's what so you can take it in to the dealer or do it yourself.
read moreHiking Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons in Escalante Utah
One of our favorite adventures of all time. This one is quite out of the way, but the effort is rewarded with the COOLEST hike in one of the more remote areas of the country.
read moreHow to Replace the Shocks on a Sprinter Camper Van
Rock and roll. Good on the radio. Not so good for camper van handling. Here's how to replace the shocks on a Sprinter Camper Van:
read moreThings to do at Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is a geologic playground just outside Las Vegas. It's a dog friendly state park with some awesome hiking trails. Here are our recommendations:
read morePlasti Dip Review after One Year on the Road
Plasti Dip is essentially a spray on vinyl wrap. Here's how it's held up after a year of abuse on the road:
read moreThe Outdoor Gear Builders of Western North Carolina
North Carolina is home to many outdoor gear companies. We spent a weekend in Asheville to tell their story of “Extraordinary Gear made Here”. (This is one of our favorites)
read moreHow to Get Mail While Traveling Full Time
Getting mail while traveling isn't as simple as a post office visit. Here are the hoops we have to jump through to get mail and packages while on the road:
read moreWinter Van Life at Mammoth Mountain
Season 1, Episode 8 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Mammoth Mountain to ski prime spring conditions and find campsites with hot springs just steps from our door.
read moreInstalling a 4g Cell Signal Booster on our DIY Camper Van Conversion
Since we work from the road, having a strong cell signal is vital. Here's how we get faste enough 4g to upload videos, have skype calls, and all the other business logistics:
read moreWinter Van Life in Squaw Valley
Season 1, Episode 7 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us back into the US where we visited skied at Squaw Valley and Hiked at Lake Tahoe.
read more2WD vs 4×4 Camper Van – Which is Necessary?
Nobody is questioning if 4×4 is more capable than 2WD… but is the added cost absolutely necessary to have an adventure camper van? We say no, and here's why:
read moreWinter Van Life at Revelstoke, British Columbia
Season 1, Episode 6 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Revelstoke BC to ski the 5,000ft vertical this INCREDIBLE mountain has to offer.
read moreDometic Origo 3000 Camper Van Alcohol Stove Review
The Dometic Origo 3000 Alcohol stove is an alcohol fueled stove that doesn't have pressurized containers which makes is a good option for cooking in a camper van.
read moreWinter Van Life in Lake Louise, Alberta
Season 1, Episode 5 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Lake Louise where we skied beautiful terrain and walked across frozen Lake Louise to frozen waterfalls.
read moreHow to Get Insurance on a DIY Camper Van
Getting insurance for a camper van is a pain and it varies from state to state, but here are some tips to get your DIY camper van conversion insured Properly
read moreWinter Van Life in Banff, Alberta
Season 1, Episode 4 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Banff to ski at Sunshine Village and Soak up the sights in this beautiful town.
read moreWinter Van Life in Bozeman, Montana
Season 1, Episode 3 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to Bozeman where we batted van breakdowns, getting stuck, and awesome skiing at Bridger Bowl
read moreHow to Read and Clear the Check Engine Light on a Sprinter
Check engine lights are part of #Vanlife. Here is how to read and clear a check engine light on a Sprinter.
read moreWinter Van Life in Sun Valley, Idaho
Season 1, Episode 8 of Winter #Vanlife is MORE than Skiing Powder took us to
read moreEspar D2 Diesel Heater Review
As temps plummeted to sub-zero temps with wind forcing it's way into every seam, we were ultimately impressed with it's performance.
read more7 Can’t Miss Winter Activities in Jackson Hole
There's more to Jackson Hole Wyoming in the winter than just skiing. Here are a few extra ideas if you decide to take a ‘day off'.
read moreBackcountry Skiing near Park City, Utah
We met up with some of our friends (who just happen to be Backcountry ski guides) for an awesome day of walking uphill and skiing back down. (1st time backcountry skiing!)
read moreHow to Prepare a Camper Van for Winter Living
Our camper van wasn't 100% ready for winter time living when we ‘finished' it, so we had some adjustments to make. Here's what we changed:
read moreWinter Vanlife in Park City, Utah
If you need a day off from skiing in Park City, here are a few suggestions for fun things to do in Park City in the winter:
read moreEspar D2 Diesel Heater Installation
The Espar D2 heater is the diesel powered heater we use to heat our van in frigid winter conditions. Here's how to install one:
read moreBest Things About Living in a Van
Living in a van provides extreme flexibility. Here is our list of the things we like best about living in a van.
read moreSurf Trip to the Baja California
This is the story abou the time we took a guided trip down into the Baja California into mexico in search of tacos, surfing, adventure, and tacos.
read moreWhy You Should Visit Sequoia National Park in the Fall
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. These two reasons and more are why you should visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park in the Fall.
read moreBeginner Rock Climbing in Joshua Tree
It's easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of climbing available in Joshua Tree. Here are some of our ‘Beginner Friendly' areas:
read moreWhy we “Sold it All” to Live in a Van
Everbody has their own reasons for moving into a van. Here's ours:
read moreTop 7 Things to Do when Driving Hwy 1; The Pacific Coast HWY
Sure, hwy 1 has beautiful views… but it's still a LONG road that needs to be broken up. Here are some things to do to get out and stretch your legs.
read moreGoPro Hero6 Black Review: Initial Impressions
The Gopro 6 introduced the highest frame rates available in the Gopro Line. Here are our initial thoughts:
read moreTop 10 Van Life Must Haves
We aren't talking about “Lights” or “Insulation”. These are the items that turned our DIY Camper Van into a Home.
read moreVan Life Safety – 6 Tips for Protecting Yourself and Your Stuff
Safety & Living on the Road. Do these go hand in hand? Maybe not, but here are some considerations to stay safe while living in a van in the middle of nowhere.
read moreThe 6 Ways We Make Money While Traveling Full-Time
There are literally hundreds (thousands?) of ways to make money while traveling. Here are our 6 income streams we have for life on the road:
read more12 Money Saving Tips to Help you Travel Longer for Cheaper
For life on the road, you don't have to earn as much if you can spend less. Here are our money saving tips for traveling longer and more often.
read morePCT Days – Pacific Crest Trail Celebration
PCT Days is an awesome event every summer that's a celebration of one of the premiere long hikes in the US. The Pacific Crest Trail.
read moreCave Hikes at Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho
Craters of the Moon is an out-of-the-way National Monument that has one of the most interesting landscapes in the world. Here are some caves to explore on a day trip:
read moreCamelBak Pursuit Series Review
A summer camp for adults led by pro adventure guides and athletes where you can learn that new activity you've been wanting to try and hone skills on your favorites.
read moreTop 10 Things to do in Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa is a great city with something always going on. Here are 10 ideas for adventure in and around Ottawa.
read moreFree Dispersed Camping near Lake Ontario in the Winona State Forest, New York
This free camp site is a great stop if you are headed north through New York before entering Canada. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreVan Tour of Our Complete DIY Campervan Conversion
Our custom DIY camper van features 800+ watts of solar, a composting toilet, full size bed, custom cabinets, fully insulated and much more. Read more about the nitty gritty details here:
read moreFree Dispersed Camping in Cherokee National Forest near Asheville, North Carolina
This free campsite features an awesome swimming hole with natural rock waterslide within walking distance. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreFree Dispersed Camping Near Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
This free dispersed camp site near Taos features a snow fed creek and close proximity to the town of Taos and the ski resort. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreInstalling Full-Body Plasti Dip on our DIY Camper Van Conversion
Plasti-dip is essentially a spray on vinyl wrap but is 10x cheaper. It's was a big job, but here's how we did it:
read moreFree Dispersed Camping Near the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
This free camp site is great spot near the Great Sand Dunes National Park at the foot of the 14,344 ft tall Blanca Peak. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreBuilding DIY Camper Van Cabinets
Building the cabinets & storage in our Camper Van was a huge challenge, especially since it was our first time. Although, not necessarily a in-depth tutorial, here is how we built them:
read moreHow to Build a Ceiling in a DIY Camper Van Conversion
The Ceiling in our van is made from an old fence, sealed, and attached to furring strips. Here's how we made and installed it:
read moreHow to Install Walls in a DIY Camper Van Conversion
The walls in our van is made from dry erase board so we ALWAYS have something to keep notes on. Here's how we installed it:
read moreHow to Install Insulation a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We insulated our van for both hot and cold weather with rigid foam and expanding foam insulation. Here's how we did it and why we chose what we did:
read moreHow to Install a Maxxair Roof Vent Fan in a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We have two Maxxair vent fans on our roof which can exchange all the air inside the van once every 20 seconds to keep us cool. Here's how we installed them:
read moreHow to Soundproof DIY Camper Van Conversion
Without soundproofing material, our van was like a tin can driving down the road. After… it was like a much quieter tin can. Here's how we installed it:
read moreHow to Remove the Door Panels in a Mercedes Sprinter
If you need to access the inner workings of your sprinter door for speaker installation or insulation, you'll have to remove the door panel. Here's how to do it:
read moreHow to Remove the Headliner in a Mercedes Sprinter
There is a huge open space behind the sprinter headliner that needs to have sound deadening applied and insulation attached. Here's how to remove the headliner:
read moreHow to Remove the Seats in a Mercedes Sprinter
You'll need to remove the seats in your sprinter to install swivel seats or acess the nice hidden ‘storage' area for, perhaps, a heater install. Here's how to remove them:
read moreHow to Prep the Floor for a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We took the stock floor of our van since it used to be a plumbing truck (that floor = gross). Here's how to remove it:
read more5 Reasons We Traded Our RV to Build a DIY Camper Van Conversion
We sold our 40 foot class-A motorhome to build a MUCH smaller camper van. Here are a few reasons we downsized:
read moreEco Hostel in San Juan del Sur Nicaragua – Casa Oro
Walls made from trash and food scraps used to grow more food. This hostel in Nicaragua aims to be a totally closed loop of sustainable business practices:
read moreMango Rosa Nicaragua Adventure & Surf Resort Review
Finding an ‘Adventure Resort' that can keep up with us is a tall task, but on our visit, we were met with more hiking, surfing, volcano viewing, and cultural submursion than we could ask for.
read more6 Things To Do in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua
San Juan Del Sur in southern Nicaragua is one of our favorite places we've EVER been. Here's a few things to do there that makes this place an explorers dream:
read moreHotel Camino Real – Best Hotel near the Airport in Managua, Nicaragua
Flying to Nicaragua is typically an all day ordeal. This hotel is directly across the street from the hotel and makes for a great first and last night pit stop before exploring the rest of the country:
read moreAn Adventure in Traveling Nicaragua
Nicaragua is filled with adventure. This trip with some friends was one of the best weeks of our lives. This video is the story:
read more5 Things to Do during 24 Hours in Seattle
Seattle is home to some iconic landmarks. Here are 5 things to do on a short stop-over in Seattle:
read moreFree Boondocking Campsite near Lillooet, British Columbia
Lillooet is just north of the pass from Whistler. It's a rugged canyon with a beautiful lake and frigid stream and a free, established campground:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Seward, Alaska
Seward Alaska is home of Exit Glacier. Here is a free campsite in the area. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreExit Glacier Trail Hiking near Seward, Alaska
Need to see the results of climate change for yourself? Exit Glacier is a great demonstration with year markers noting where the glacier was in past years:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Peterson Lake, Alaska
This free camp site on the Kenai Peninsula is right next to a beautiful lake that's perfect for paddling. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreWhere to Stay and Things to do near Homer, Alaska
You want to see bald eagles up close? Anchor Point near Homer Alaska is your spot. Here's where to stay (and some other things to do once you get tired of taking pictures of eagles from 10′ away)
read more6 Things to Do in Whittier Alaska
To get to Whittier Alaska You've got to drive down a one-way road – through a tunnel – straddling the train tracks – because you're sharing the road with a train:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Portage Glacier in Alaska
The road leading to Portage Lake in Alaska has all kinds of free camping. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreKayaking in Portage Lake to Portage Glacier in Alaska
We kayaked across an ice cold lake to a glacier, back across the lake and down a river, then rode our bikes back to the lake. Oh, the things that can be done with 24hrs of daylight in Alaska:
read moreHiking to the Winner Creek Trail Hand Tram in Girdwood, Alaska
A hiking trail that features a hand powered tram suspended across a raging Alaskan river. This is one of our favorite hikes:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Denali National Park
Nabbing a camp site inside of Denali National Park is tricky. Here's where we stayed for free on forest land just outside of the park. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read more2 Day Itinerary With RV Camping in Denali National Park
Denali national park is rugged and HUGE. Two days doesn't do it justice but here are a few things to do to get the most bang for your time on a quick trip into Denali National park:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsites and Cheap Campgrounds near Fairbanks, Alaska
There is plenty of free and inexpensive camping near fairbanks. Here is our list of the places we saw or stayed at. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreRV and Van Life with Dogs – Things to Consider
Van Life with dogs can be a great experience, but it can also be a traumatizing experience for all parties involved. Here are a few considerations:
read moreKayaking Lake Mcdonald & Mcdonald Creek in Glacier National Park, Montana
One of our FAVORITE Adventures: Kayaking in Glacier National Park in the crystal clear Mcdonald Lake, down Mcdonald creek to the Flathead river then bike shuttling back to the lake:
read moreFree Campsite Near Yellowstone National Park
This free campsite is a free county camp ground featuring a lake and more bird species than we could count. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking to Lone Star Geyser in Yellowstone National Park
Old Faithful was crowded and featured a boardwalk and a fence making it seem more like a man-made water fountain than a natural geyser. Here is a better alternative:
read moreThings to See in Yellowstone National Park in One Day
We only had one day to spend in Yellowstone National Park. Here are some of the hot spots (geo-thermal joke) to see when time is valuable:
read more7-10 Day Southern Utah National Park Road Trip Itinerary
This road trip Itenerary through southern Utah includes 5 National Parks, free camp sites, supply refill points, and adventure ideas. This one one of our favorites:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Zion National Park in Utah
There is plenty of BLM land for free camping near Zion National Park. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park: Things to Know
Angles Landing in Zion National Park is the most popular hike in the park. Dealing with an over-crowded trail was scarier than the 1,000+ foot sheer drop on each side:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Bryce Canyon National Park
There is free camping in National Forest land right outside of the Bryce Canyon National park gates. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking Fairyland Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park
This is a necessary hike if you are going to Bryce Canyon. It's a longer, more challenging hike which means it's less crowded, but it accesses some of the best scenery in the park:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite in Escalante Utah
Escalante Utah is one of the most ruggedly beautiful locations in the US. There is unlimited potential for adventure. Free camping is easy to find in the area, but here is a good spot. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking Cottonwood Narrows near Cannonville Utah
Cottonwood Narrows is a good hike for someone who wants to see slot canyons but may be a bit claustrophobic as these sandstone canyons are a bit wider.
read moreHiking the Peek a Boo and Spooky Gulch Slot Canyons near Escalante Utah
Hiking Peekaboo and Spooky Slot canyons is one of our favorite hikes ever. Deep in Southern Utah, this loop hike is a must-do:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite near Capitol Reef National Park
Just outside of Capitol Reef National Park is this great free campsite on BLM land next to a river. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreHiking the Grand Wash Trail in Capitol Reef National Park
Grand Wash is a good hike for someone who wants to see slot canyons but may be a bit claustrophobic as these sandstone canyons are a bit wider.
read moreBeginner Rock Climbing in Moab Utah
There is so much rock climbing in Moab that it can be pretty overwhelming. Here is a beginner friendly area for rock climbing in Moab:
read moreWhere to See Dinosaur Fossils in Moab Utah
*Peddle, peddle, peddle* …”Hey, are those Dinosaur Fossils”? That's a normal thing in Moab Utah:
read moreBest Beginner Mountain Biking in Moab
There is so much mountain biking in Moab that it can be pretty overwhelming. Here is a beginner friendly trail away from the crowds on the more popular trails.
read moreHiking to Corona Arch in Moab Utah
Corona Arch. All of the arch, less of a crowd. This arch is not inside Arches National Park so you won't need a parks pass either:
read moreFree Dispersed Campsite in Moab Utah
Moab is home to plentiful free camping. Here is an awesome spot. Remember to bring a trash bag and clean up after yourself AND others:
read moreThings to See in 1 Day in Washington, DC
Washington DC is a deceptively big place where we ended up walking nearly 20 miles to see everything we wanted to see. Here were our favorite things we saw:
read moreHow to DIY Mount Snow Ski Bindings on Snow Skis at Home
Stubborn and like to do thing yourself you should probably leave up to a professional? Yeah, me too… Here's how to mount bindings onto snow skis at home:
read moreSnowmobiling in Grand Lake Colorado
There's plenty of snow in Grand Lake colorado, but no ski resorts. This makes it a PRIME destination to rent snomobiles for a good day of going off into deep snow, getting terribly stuck, and getting help from a half dozen icelandic guys (PLOT TWIST!!)
read moreBackpacking Eagle Rock Loop in the Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas
This was our very first overnight backpacking trip. It's an awesome 27ish mile loop trail through the Ouachita Mountains:
read moreDickinson P12000 Propane Heater Installation and Review
In our RV we installed this propane heater that vents to the outside, which decreases moisture while efficiently using fuel to keep costs low and temperatures up:
read moreTest Page
How to Score Big at an REI Garage Sale
An REI Garage Sale is where REI re-sales all of their gear that has been lightly used for STEEP discounts. It's a great event to score deals, but there's some stuff to know before you go so you don't waste your time & effort:
read moreCamping at Cathedral Lake near Aspen, Colorado
Cathedral Lake is a lake above treeline outside of Aspen Colorado that features a beautiful lake in a meadow of wildflowers below towering spires:
read more6 Steps to Find Amazing (and Free) Camp Sites
Here is how WE find all of our free campsites. Give a man a fish and you'll feed him for a day. Teach a fish to find free campsites and… well, you know how to old saying goes:
read more