Category: Interviews

Here is the interview we did with Chuck on handhelds

Here is the interview on George’s passion: Photography

GRAY: Can you tell us about your journey and what inspired you to live as a nomad?

GABRIELA: I have a bit of Romani heritage, according to my Grandmother, which my father confirmed later through his family genealogy research. Growing up, my family moved frequently, never staying in one place for more than two years. I guess I inherited that wanderlust, as I could never stay put either!

GRAY: Describe your rig.

GABRIELA: I’ve had two rigs designed for off-grid living. My first was a 14’ Bumper Pull, which I renovated myself with a friend. It was a gut job. I replaced parts of all three supporting walls and the entire back end. In the end I made it fully self-sufficient.

My second rig is a 25’ fifth wheel with dual slides and tall ceilings, offering more comfort. It was in great shape when I got it. It’s an RV, so it has most everything you need. I started with 200 Watts of Solar and 200 amp hours of battery and of course I had a hotspot for internet. I was definitely not left wanting. 

GRAY: What routines did you adapt to?

GABRIELA: Living on the road means different chores. I don’t have to mow a lawn or pay utilities, but I manage water and waste differently. I kept extra water containers to extend my supply and used a high-efficiency shower head. I also had a composting toilet, which made waste management easier. 

GRAY: How do you decide where to park?

GABRIELA: I use apps like Overlander and Campendium, along with Google Maps, to find safe spots. I prefer to park where I can see others nearby, avoiding isolation.

I also looked for what I call “Crop Circles” on google maps. I would hunt for all the donuts from rigs turning around to see where someone had been before, so I knew it was possible to get there. To be on the safe side you always scout ahead before pulling your rig into an unknown area.

GRAY: What’s something you needed but didn’t have when you started?

GABRIELA: A jack made for an RV. There are wrong ways and smart ways to change a tire.  So having the correct tools for emergencies is key. I watched a lot of YouTube.

GRAY: Describe a time when you were really happy on the road.

GABRIELA: The first year was full of discovery and joy. I loved being surrounded by nature and exploring with my dog. The solitude was refreshing, with people respecting each other’s space.

GRAY: Describe a time when you were worried on the road.

GABRIELA: During COVID, I was concerned about supplies, but I had enough food stocked for six months. I adapted by using Walmart’s pickup service, which I still use.

GRAY: What was the best place you stayed and why?

GABRIELA: very place in my first year felt special, but American Girl Mine Road just over the Arizona state line near Winterhaven, California stood out for its space and proximity to amenities.

GRAY: What interesting things did you see?

GABRIELA: I enjoyed breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, but my favorite moments were the peaceful views from inside or just sitting outside.

GRAY: What made you start this lifestyle?

GABRIELA: I’ve had gone through some tough times. I got my rig and it gave me peace of mind. I was something that could not be taken from me. Living nomadically also gave me the freedom to explore while also providing a safe space where I didn’t have to worry about what others might want from me. It helped me break free from expectations. Since I moved around a lot as a kid, I got used to change, so it felt natural. I guess it is in my blood too.

GRAY: What made you stop?

GABRIELA: After a while, I felt I had experienced enough. When my truck broke down and I had to replace the engine, I decided to return to Tennessee. I might go back to nomadic life someday, but for now, I’m settled.

GRAY: If you were to do it again, what would you change?

GABRIELA: I’d add more solar power for comfort and the option to run AC, just for the flexibility.

GRAY: What would you recommend to someone wanting to try the nomad lifestyle?

GABRIELA: Join forums and social media groups for nomads to ask questions and make friends before you start. Renting a vehicle to test the lifestyle for a few weeks is also a great idea.

GRAY: What are some misconceptions about nomadic living?

GABRIELA: Many think it’s like being homeless, but most nomads make the best of their situation and enjoy the freedom it brings.