EP 54: Camper Van Life: Expert Tips, Community & Benefits for Veterans
Have you ever dreamed of hitting the road in a camper van, leaving behind the chaos of daily life for the open road? In this episode, Eric Raszewski, founder of Family Trucksters, shares his insights into the transformative experience of camper van travel. Whether you're a travel enthusiast, a veteran, or simply seeking a change, camper van life might be the adventure you need.
The Joys of Camper Van Travel: Slowing Down and Embracing a New Travel Style
Camper van travel offers a slower, more intimate way to explore the world. Instead of rushing through airports or sticking to strict itineraries, you can take your time and savor the journey. Imagine waking up to a serene lakeside sunrise or cooking breakfast with a mountain view as your backdrop.
The Benefits of the Camper Van Community
One of the most beautiful aspects of this lifestyle is the camper van community. Eric highlights how fellow travelers often go out of their way to help one another, whether it's lending a tool or offering advice on the best campsites. It's like being part of an extended family that spans the country.
Finding the Right Camper Van: Researching and Choosing the Perfect Fit
Finding your dream camper van isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Eric emphasizes the importance of researching different models, layouts, and features. Are you traveling solo, with a partner, or with your family? Each scenario calls for a different setup.
Essential Features to Consider
When choosing a camper van, think about essentials like storage space, a comfortable sleeping area, and a functional kitchenette. For longer trips, consider vans with a built-in bathroom and off-grid capabilities like solar panels and water tanks.
Veterans and Camper Van Life: Benefits for Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Life
Veterans often face unique challenges when transitioning to civilian life. Camper van travel can serve as a therapeutic bridge, offering a sense of freedom and purpose. As Eric explains, it allows veterans to reconnect with nature, gain clarity, and enjoy a structured yet flexible lifestyle.
Using GI Bill Benefits
Surprisingly, some veterans can utilize their GI Bill benefits to support aspects of their camper van journey, such as enrolling in educational programs that enhance their skills for this lifestyle.
Mental Health Benefits of Camper Van Travel
The mental health benefits of camper van travel are immense. From reducing stress to fostering a sense of accomplishment and independence, this lifestyle can be life-changing. Being close to nature, away from urban noise, helps you recharge mentally and emotionally.
Conclusion
Camper van life is more than just a travel trend; it's a way of life that offers freedom, community, and countless personal benefits. Whether you're seeking adventure, a supportive community, or a fresh start, the open road awaits. As Eric says, “The journey is as important as the destination.” Ready to embark on your camper van adventure?
Quotes from the episode
“It really helped us to slow down. It helped us to kind of just take in everything.”
“There’s this connection about everybody that’s trying to do this kind of travel and like, oh, you know, I’ve been there, oh, flat tire, like, yeah, I’ve been there, let’s help these guys out.”
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