Nomading Equipment

So, as you may have guessed already, I am not just wandering the desert in my skivvies. A change in lifestyle requires a change in the tools of life. Here's what I've done in my quest to be on the road.

I purchased a used 20' long travel trailer. I had thought about getting a class C RV with the bed over the cab of the RV, but a friend pointed out that should anything go wrong with the engine, I would be without a home until it was repaired. Also, when I arrived some place that I wanted to stay a while, I would be unable to leave my home plugged in and set up... every time I went to the store or wherever, I'd have to bring the whole shebang with me...or tow a car. Now it seemed a bit overkill to have two engines that might break down, so I decided the old ways were the best and got a used 2007 Keystone Springdale 179RD... Great layout and well kept up. I then needed a truck to to it since my old Dodge Caravan did not have the towing power. So... that was the initial investment...a small amount when you consider it is both home and transportation.

As a solo nomad, I considered what tools would make life on the road safer for all and more comfortable. Here's what I got:

1. Equalizer anti-sway bars for the tow hitch:
   This is an easy to attach gear that keeps the trailer from swaying in high winds, when a semi passes close by, or just in the course of normal driving. I've towed with and without and can say that this device is a must have! Driving is no longer perilous on an open stretch of windy highway.
   
2. Back-up trailer camera:
   Without another person to get out of the truck and spot for me, backing up the trailer to park or turn would have been much more difficult. The camera I bought mounts high on the back wall of the trailer and allows me to see behind the trailer, not just when backing up, but also when driving. this is a boon in heavy traffic when drivers can have a nasty habit of changing lanes from behind you just as you signal to begin a lain change. Knowing where drivers are is a great safety measure. And, of course, the camera keeps you from running over electric posts and small children and dogs.
   
3. Hitch lock:
   I was told that some people have been known to have their trailers stolen while attached to their truck in a parking lot. A hitch lock is cheap and prevents this nasty business.

There are some things I still need to learn. I filed my propane tanks, set my refrigerator to auto and assumed that when the electricity was unplugged, the frig would automatically switch to propane. This did not happen. I had to throw out food and the tupperware containers they were in due to stench. I'll find out where the error was in that thinking and report back.

All in all, so far life on the road is grand. I'll keep you posted.

© 2017 Joan Cichon All Rights Reserved