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  1. Groundscore

    Setting/asserting boundaries in your home (on wheels)

    If people don't respect you or your property, they aren't your friends, nor are they anyone you should associate with. People like that will try to bring you down, bust up things, steal stuff, etc. There is FAR too much bad shit in this world to allow negative disrespectful people into yours...
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    Are tires cheaper depending in what region you get them replaced?

    No matter what tires you get, unless they are run-flats make sure you get a good patch kit, and a small 12-volt DC powered air compressor, along with an air gauge. While you're at it, make sure you have a flashlight or headlamp, as the one time you don't is the one time you will have a flat in...
  3. Groundscore

    Best boots for walk long distances

    Danner boots are some of the best you can buy, but they aren't cheap! They are VERY well made, extremely comfortable, and very durable. No matter what boots you get, also get some thin socks, put those on, then put on your regular socks. You'll get few, if any blisters ever again.
  4. Groundscore

    Any of you travel without a sleeping bag? If so whats your alternative?

    If a sleeping bag is too bulky, and it's not insanely cold, a simple lightweight fleece blanket is very useful, and cardboard can be found near almost any dumpster or behind stores for use as insulation from the ground and for providing basic padding. A space blanket is cheap, very small and...
  5. Groundscore

    Ground sheets, are they necessary?

    Get the ground sheet; it's worth the protection. The first time you end up with a tear in the floor of a tent and spend time patching it, you'll wish you had gotten a ground sheet. Save yourself the stress. If you can't find one specific to your tent, compare dimensions with others; see if you...
  6. Groundscore

    Sleeping pads, inflatable or foam?

    Inflatable is just not durable enough; one mistake and it gets punctured. Plus they tend to get cold easily. Go for the foam; it won't let you down when you need it, and can easily serve you for years.
  7. Groundscore

    What are some good tips for tramping on a motorcycle?

    The best you can do is deter theft. Small locks, cable locks, etc. Those will stop the typical grab and run thief, which most are. Obviously, those are easily defeated by even the smallest pair of bolt cutters, or oftentimes wire cutters, etc. For a while I had a cable lock with a...
  8. Groundscore

    News & Blogs [cw] RIP in San Diego: 3 dead, more injured, camping in tunnel

    Quick tip on most paywall sites: Whenever you hit one, close your browser to start with a new one and hit the "x" or "stop" button as soon as ANY text starts to load. This will allow you to bypass most paywalls, as long as they come after the article starts loading. - You won't get photos...
  9. Groundscore

    Your ideal final exit off the road?

    When I die, I want to die like my grandfather who died peacefully in his sleep. Not screaming like all the passengers in his car. Sorry, I couldn't resist that one, as I suspect this thread could use some levity, as it's a pretty heavy topic... Anyway, as for me, peacefully in my sleep, of...
  10. Groundscore

    Knives for the road

    I use the Gerber Gator fixed blade knife, it's lightweight at just over 5 ounces, tough as nails and is built to last. When it comes to pocketknives I use the Victorinox Swiss Army "Farmer" Pocket Knife. As for multi-tools, it's hard to beat a Leatherman, a bit pricey, and sometimes hard to pick...
  11. Groundscore

    Good suggestions for a decent knife?

    I use the Gerber Gator fixed blade knife, it's lightweight at just over 5 ounces, tough as nails and is built to last. When it comes to pocketknives I use the Victorinox Swiss Army "Farmer" Pocket Knife.
  12. Groundscore

    Question where to charge your phone when everything is closed?

    Start looking for covered outlets outside of buildings; usually on the backside you'll find some. Just be warned that unless you ask you could be charged with theft of services. Usually if you ask nicely and explain you just need to charge your phone and/or laptop most will give you the okay.
  13. Groundscore

    the key to hydration

    Being that it is heating up, this thread should be bumped up, as having one of these handy tools can truly be a life saver. It's also surprising how many people don't know about them.
  14. Groundscore

    Question Reliable Radio scanner suggestions?

    Another vote for the Uniden Bearcat scanners; most any of them will work great and last a long time. Just keep fresh batteries in it; and if you're not going to use it for a while, take the batteries out just in case they leak. I once ruined a nice little shortwave radio by forgetting to remove...
  15. Groundscore

    Finding places to park?

    Hospital parking lots usually have plenty of vacant spaces around the back, and few people will notice you there.
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    Anybody feel like theyve been deemed expendable by society???

    It doesn't matter what society thinks of you, it's what YOU think of yourself.
  17. Groundscore

    News & Blogs The latest trend in RV'ing: Getting way off the grid

    Most of those cost more than a house. I know not everyone wants (or can) build out a van, box truck, cargo trailer etc, but if you can or even rehab a good older RV you would be much better served. Plus it would be your layout. The downside to more mainstream RV users and coverage is more trash...
  18. Groundscore

    pandemic reality shift - change is coming

    More and more people are seeing the light, realizing that housing is over-priced and you can easily end up trapped in a home/prison with a mortgage that can go underwater with the economy, or just lose the home due to something as simple as a virus and subsequent job loss. Plus, as jobs dry up...
  19. Groundscore

    Walking shoe recommendations?

    I will cast another vote for Danner, as I've had mine for years and they still look great and have been over some rugged ground. If you plan on walking a lot (like most do), don't forget some sock liners to prevent blisters. Those are lifesavers on longer walks/hikes.
  20. Groundscore

    Campervan or 4x4 truck and camper?

    A truck camper will be a lot less stealthy than a cargo van, but LEO's typically know what vehicle belongs where and which ones are out of place. Of course frequently it's the "concerned citizen" that calls the LEO's to begin with, and a truck camper will draw more of their attention in a city...
  21. Groundscore

    How Has Government Lock-Down Affected Your Travel?

    I ran into the fee for a carry-on bag thing before, and I didn't want to pay it, as that's just ridiculous. Hopefully my solution will help you and any others with the "no carry-on allowed" issue. The trick to getting around having to pay for my carry-on was to eliminate it first, and buy a...
  22. Groundscore

    What to look for when buying an RV?

    Water damage is probably the main thing to look for, that and any mechanical problems of course. Most RVs are not well built; frequently 1x2 wood stapled together. Now imagine that going down the road with lots of vibration; like a mini-home going through constant earthquakes, with sub-par...
  23. Groundscore

    Where do you like to sleep?

    I mostly rubber tramp now, but rooftops during good weather have always been a favorite of mine. During windy weather or rain look at the storage sheds outside any Home Depot or Lowe's. It's almost like getting your own home for the night. Just be gone before any employee gets there in the morning.
  24. Groundscore

    Staying Sane and Mental Escapes During the Last Days. How's the apocalypse treating you?

    I will second the book suggestion. Try to pick something that takes you away from reality that you find interesting. If you end up bored with your first choice try another book. I've found that books are a great way to get pulled into another world where all the stress and crap in this one...
  25. Groundscore

    Getting a vehicle for around $3,000?

    I'm sorry to the OP; I totally forgot to address your post. I would say yes, you can get a good vehicle for around $3,000. I've seen them as low as $1,500-$2,000, but you really need to look them over well and ask a LOT of questions. If the seller seems shady, doesn't know a lot, can't tell you...
  26. Groundscore

    Getting a vehicle for around $3,000?

    I have to echo Coywolf's warning on this as well, as years ago I worked at a car dealership in the auto-detail section, and saw firsthand some of the tricks done to used vehicles were. A few highlights were cars bought at auction (who knows how they were taken care of), and were driven to the...
  27. Groundscore

    Looking for cheap cost of living with a strong economy

    Absolutely; almost everyone struggles to pay rent every month, and mortgages are even worse, as while you are theoretically getting something, it's only if you live long enough to pay it off, and it has a way of tying you down and draining you financially. Vehicle dwelling isn't without...
  28. Groundscore

    Books vs. Digital Information - specific resources

    Anything that you consider to be essential (within reason) you should have a physical copy of, just in case the 'net goes down where you are, no service, broken device, etc. Something such as maps are extremely valuable and handy to have on hand, as compared to recreational reading, which could...
  29. Groundscore

    Advice for rubber tramping with no AC

    A roof AC unit is going to need power, and that will need to be from a generator or shore power. If you're off-grid or in a parking lot shore power probably won't be an option, and generators are noisy and aren't cheap. Work on keeping the heat out by insulating your windows and get a small...
  30. Groundscore

    News & Blogs Why a Converted School Bus Makes a Great Home

    I've thought about upgrading from my cargo van to a school bus, but the windows hold me back a bit, as there's a lot to insulate. I do love how well they are built however. I keep toying with the idea of a box truck as well, as I really would like more storage and the ability to stand up. So I...
  31. Groundscore

    Clothing for 50+ Windy weather

    Use layers; something like a windbreaker over a fleece over a wool sweater over a good shirt if it's really cold. Don't forget a wool cap, gloves, and of course long-johns under your pants. Also keep a couple off extra pair of wool socks. ALWAYS have extra socks... One step into a puddle at...
  32. Groundscore

    Photos Remodelling Inside My Van

    Windows are the bane of vehicle dwelling. Sure, they can give a nice view, but that's what outside is for. As is they are heat loss magnets during the winter, and heat amplifiers during the summer. Try a layered approach to insulating them, Reflectix and foam, along with heavy fabric.
  33. Groundscore

    Cheap/free source of foam bedding?

    Don't just check the furniture store dumpsters; go in and ask if they have any scraps. You will be amazed at what some places will give you when you ask! While you're at it, check any place that does upholstery work. Frequently they will have things like memory foam. Also keep an eye out...
  34. Groundscore

    What's going on for 2019 Halloween where you're at?

    That is exactly my plan! Would be even better if it fell on a Friday or Saturday, then again those are always good times to search for dropped stuff around the bars and such.
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    Photos I pulled the trigger....

    Sounds like you'll be built-out in no time. Stay in it before finishing the build; you might find you want things laid out differently than you originally thought after a few nights of staying in it. In addition for the contractor look, I would avoid a fake decal, as in some places you might...
  36. Groundscore

    The balancing of life,

    Life is probably best when balanced; I know mine has always been that way. If I do too much of this, too little of that, it is as if my soul gets out of alignment or something. When I do what makes me happy life is WAY better. Congrats on doing what makes you happy in this stage of your life...
  37. Groundscore

    Personal rules, morals, whatever ya call it on the road

    I always try to treat others as I wish to be treated. I also am big on respecting the choices of others.
  38. Groundscore

    dumb traveler names

    For whatever reason I always seem to find a lot of lost stuff, and am constantly picking things up from the ground that are of value (coins, cash, jewelry, tools, etc.) When I found $200 in cash on the ground, right after finding $40 in cash on the ground, some friends started calling me "Ground...
  39. Groundscore

    I want out

    I would keep your fall back plan idea in place, as that would allow you both storage and time; time to think while you get out into the wilderness. In a year you may be so in love with living off the land you will decide to get rid of the place, or you may decide to move into it. While in a...
  40. Groundscore

    grey man/anonimity

    There is something to be said for blending in, as most people will leave you alone if you do and since you're not drawing attention you'll have more freedom to explore.
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    On Selling Out

    Go and do what makes YOU happy. I don't view it as "selling out" if you're listening to your heart/soul/gut. Maybe see if you can strike a balance between a home life with work and travel. If you decide to make any major change in your lifestyle maybe try wading in first to see if it's for...
  42. Groundscore

    Seeking Help StP HQ / Punk Rock RV Park

    Those amenities sound fantastic. Hopefully zoning laws and permits won't get in the way. The idea of a blacksmith shop is ingenious - not only is that a great skill to have, so are any that can be shared among travelers. I remember some of the early days on the 'net where I learned some basic...
  43. Groundscore

    Internet in squats.

    If you are close enough for free WiFi there are range extenders and antennas that can pull in signals from quite a distance. Just don't get caught putting up the antenna if you go that route. I have a mobile hot-spot on my cell which works great and keeps me from having to keep charged and pay...
  44. Groundscore

    Anyone ride motorcycles?

    Pack light and tight, and make sure you have the ability to keep things dry. - That includes yourself. Take a few short trips first, to get the feel of what you need/don't need and see how things ride. You'll quickly learn better ways of packing stuff from experience. Bungee cords are your...
  45. Groundscore

    lighting a fire in the WET!!

    Look for dry wood and dry pine needles - they'll be under the wet stuff or under the edge of a log. - Make sure you prep well with a decent air space for the oxygen to get in, have extra kindling and wood set aside (under something that will block rain), so once you get things burning you can...
  46. Groundscore

    Alone

    Knowledge and preparation are key. Most people fail on one or both accounts. And whenever you are alone you have to think about what will happen if you get hurt and can't get to help easily. I can't count the number of times and places I have been in where no one knew where I was and that was...