Planning my Grand Teton trip

Fifth Water Hot Springs has become one of Utah’s most famous soaking spots, thanks to its milky blue water and easy access from Salt Lake City. But with popularity comes crowds, and not everyone loves what it’s turned into. Some say it’s overrun with influencers, drones, and too many people, while others think it’s just part of the deal with well-known outdoor destinations. If you still want to visit, here’s how to avoid the madness and get the most out of your experience. How to Get to the Fift...

When I first tried to insure my van, I thought it would be simple. Call an insurance company, explain my setup, get a policy, and move on. Instead, I hit roadblock after roadblock, denials, high premiums, and confusion over what was actually covered. Turns out, insuring a converted van, especially a DIY camper van conversion, is way harder than I thought it would be. Some insurance providers won’t touch self-built vans, others won’t cover full-time van lifers, and most policies leave gaps that c...

Is Van Life Really As Cheap As it Sounds? Van life can be as cheap or expensive as you make it. Gas and groceries are obvious, but what about tolls, paid campsites, cooking fuel, and health insurance? Those costs can honestly add up so fast. Some people make van life work on a tight budget, while others spend as much as they would in a house. This guide breaks down the real expenses: what to expect, what most people forget, and how to keep costs under control. The Big Expenses You Can’t Avoid Bu...

Dispersed camping means you’re finding your own spot on public lands instead of staying in a developed campground with picnic tables and bathrooms. BLM land, national forests, and other public lands make this possible, offering millions of acres where you can camp for free. But as more people head off the grid, some areas are cracking down with new restrictions, fire bans, and stay limits. I know this topic can be a bit confusing so I wanted to break it down in this post! We’ll cover how to find...

As winter starts to loosen its grip and the first signs of spring emerge, it’s the perfect time to begin preparing for your upcoming camping adventures. Getting your gear ready now not only ensures a smooth start to the season but also gives you peace of mind as you head into the great outdoors. Taking the time to inspect, repair, or upgrade your gear will help you avoid last-minute surprises. Here’s a checklist of essential tools and gear to check before your first spring camping trip. Tent Che...