A Better Alternative

As eager as I am to leave Texas to travel the states, I know there's a lot of preparation ahead me that could save us a ton of headache on the road. The first bit we've tackled is looking for a vehicle to take us away.This poses a small problem, because my girlfriend, Kayla, wants something BIG and LUXURIOUS to travel in STYLE with, while, you may know from my last post, that I'm all about the SELF-BUILT CAMPER VANS.

Buying a big, luxurious RV means a little more room and comfort on the road, I understand that, but it also means more working to save up for a pricey vehicle and more working to save for travel expenses, which I hate. Having to work more means having to stay in Texas longer in the summer heat, which I hate. Having an enormous RV means more gas guzzling and shorter travel, as well as bigger travel expenses, which I could do without. All in all, wouldn't you agree the camper is a better choice?

While I'm at it, I thought I'd mention that the gas guzzling thing is one of my pet peeves and I am more than willing to put in extra TIME and EFFORT into my project if it means having a better impact on the environment. One of the options I was looking at for a conversion vehicle was an old ambulance with a diesel engine. It had plenty of room for all the amenities and ran great, and also had potential in another way.

Biofuels are starting to gain speed in America, and by providing a clean and economical alternative to petroleum diesel, bio-diesel fuels can help improve our world for future generations. Hemp, arguably being the most versatile plant in the world, can be used to produce one of the purest forms of bio-diesel. It's just a matter of time before we start having to use alternate forms of energy, and hemp bio-diesel is one of the best choices, in terms of our economy.

Through a relatively simple process, you can turn any kind of vegetable oil into a bio-diesel fuel that can be used with any diesel engine. This fuel is a clean alternative to petroleum diesel, and is completely safe to use. If things go as I hope, I will be producing my own, environmentally friendly fuel as I travel the country, doing my part to push for new energy sources.

Here's a video on how to make bio-diesel:

4 Reasons To Live In a Van

Feeling a loss of excitement in your daily activities? Have you been urging to see new places and different faces? Do you catch yourself bored at times and glued to the television autonomously? If so, then you can use some adventure! Traveling gives us a way to spice things up and discover more about ourselves and the world, and there is no better way to cure boredom!

For me, traveling provides an opportunity to experience nature and the beauty of the world up close. I've always dreamed of being in the center of Earth's natural wonders, and the best way I can think of experiencing that would be to live in it! I'm joining thousands of others across the world in a movement to see the world from a new perspective, building my own DIY camper van and taking it all across the country.

If you're curious why someone would go through this trouble for a life on the road, here's a few good reasons:

1. Self-build Camper Vans Provide Ultimate Freedom

Not many things can provide internal fulfillment while also removing us from stressful attachments in our lives (mortgages, car payments, 9-5 jobs, etc.). Camper vans are the ultimate release! By choosing to build and live in your own mobile home, you can experience an enormous weight being lifted as you enjoy life as it should be, one with nature.

2. It's Your Home, With a Personal Touch

How many people get to say they built their entire home from scratch starting with just a rusty old van? There's a powerful sense of joy in finishing something that is meaningful. Especially if it can change your life in new ways. Why not make it a way to express yourself while you're at it? Whether its those solar panels on top, the hand-painted paint job, or the hidden hammock, what makes yours special?

3. Mobility

RVs are luxurious, but not very practical for a long trip around the country. Having a compact home means cheaper travel and more access to beautiful places. While it does require more mindful thinking about what you carry with you, camper vans are the best choice for long travel.

4. Excitement Around Every Corner

Adventure can be a little alluring these days with technology ruling most of our life. Bring back your sense of excitement and meet new people while discovering different cultures! It's not until we put ourselves in new situations that we find our true potentials. Take a trip, and you come back more experienced. Who knows? Maybe you'll find something you've always been looking for.

So would you ever consider building and living in your own travel home? That's one lifestyle I'd love to live! Leave me your thoughts in the comments below. Thanks for reading!