How To Make Money Traveling (7 Proven Ways)

How To Make Money Traveling (7 Proven Ways)

by | Money, Travel

Make Money TravelingWhether you’re wanting to make money traveling full-time in an RV or traveling full-time Internationally by plane, being able to earn an income is essential.

With today’s technology, the possibilities of making money online is almost endless.

However, many are still so skeptical about whether they can really make money online so they can travel full-time. I get it! Especially when college and careers are pushed on us almost our entire lives.

We are trained to think that we need to get a job, work 9-5, commute to and from, and that’s just the way everyone is supposed to do it.

Well, I believe things are changing for the better. People are wanting freedom from the mundane 9-5 commuting jobs so they can travel full-time.

This current generation who grew up with technology are opening doors to a whole new “work environment”. People are demanding more at home jobs, more freedom with their schedules, and they desire the ability to travel and explore while making money online.

Through so much research and desire myself to earn in income from home, here are 7 proven ways you can make money to travel the world.

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1. Find a Remote Job and make money traveling

This is exactly what I did, after I started my own business.

I started my own travel agency and affiliated with Avoya Travel as my host agency. Then, when there became a Remote Employee position available within the company, I applied.

I applied for two positions. One I was denied, and the other took 3 weeks of interviews before being hired.

Due to becoming an employee, I could not affiliate my Travel Agency with them. So, I chose to liquidate my business and work as an employee. After all, all I wanted was a job so I could work from home. Therefore, I took the steps to make it happen.

Maybe you have a job now that could allow you to work from home. It wouldn’t hurt to ask and investigate it. A lot of companies now are opening Remote Employee departments.

I suggest looking at Indeed (for example) to search of positions.

If you have a company in mind that you are interested in working for, check out their career page and see if they offer remote positions.

2. Start your own online business to make money

Before I became a Remote Employee for Avoya, as I said, I owned my own Travel Agency. It was great because Avoya Travel provides Leads for their Agents that affiliate with them. If you’d like more info on Starting your own Travel Agency, check it out at Joinavoya.com.

Maybe selling Travel from home isn’t your ideal, that’s okay. There are so many other types of businesses you can start!

Think about your strengths or maybe what you went to school for. You could be a Virtual Fitness Coach and start online personal training sessions.

Maybe you’re an Accountant or Book-keeper? You can start your own business by offering your services.

These are just a couple of ideas to get you started in brainstorming.

3. Start a blog to make money while traveling

I know, blogging is probably the number one that people say you can earn an income doing and they’re right!

If you choose to start a blog, you can earn income from Advertisements, Sponsorships, and affiliated marketing.

I have been blogging since September of 2018. This is when I purchased the Course from Heather and Pete Reese, Blogging Blastoff. Before I took their course, I read blog post after blog post on how to write and start a blog. I got to a point where I just felt stuck and lost in the blogging world.

I knew I needed to invest in a training, and through months of contemplation and getting serious about wanting to blog, I purchased their course. After all, I wanted to make money and have the freedom to travel in our RV or purchase a plane ticket.

It was the Best Decision I made in my blogging career.

They cover so much material including all the different ways to earn an income, how to promote your blog and how to write your blogs to appeal to your audience. Heather and Pete also cover how to pitch brands for sponsorships, tips for SEO, Pinterest, and all the other Social Media Platforms to get your name out there.

If you’re interested in starting a blog and serious about making money to travel, then you can start by taking their 5-day email course. After that, you’ll be set to enter the Blogging Blastoff course. If you would like to start the Free 5-day email course, here is my affiliate link.-> BLOGGING BLASTOFF Free 5 Day Email Course

4. Affiliate Marketing

There is a huge potential to earn an income at home by affiliate marketing. All you do is take someone else’s product, market it, and when someone purchases the product or service from your affiliate link, you then earn a commission. You can do this with or without a website.

Many Bloggers who have websites are also Affiliate Marketers. They write blog posts as reviews for a specific product or service, market it, and earn commissions. I am one of those bloggers, however, I have learned that it really takes time and understanding your audience.

Affiliate marketing is a beast, which is why I loved taking the course my Michelle Schroeder, “Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing”. Her course is a lifesaver when it comes to understanding who your audience is, how to locate the right products to market, and how to market them. She goes over so much and is so helpful.

She averages now over $50,000 a month with Affiliate Marketing Products.

YES, THAT NUMBER IS RIGHT, $50,000 A MONTH!!!

If she can make money traveling, so can you!

Ask yourself, what would you do if you were able to make that kind of money?

If you’re interested in taking her course and learning exactly how she does it and how you can too, here is my affiliate link for her course -> Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing by Michelle Schroeder

5. Drop-Shipping

Many people are making thousands, if not millions, by owning a drop shipping website. These sites are usually found on Shopify. They are great if you’re wanting to earn money online and travel the world.

Drop Shipping is similar to starting your own business if you had tangible products to sell. However, this system is a supply management method where you do not keep the goods you are selling in house, but instead you transfer all customers ordered to a manufacture who distributes the product for you.

6. Freelance Writer

If you love to write, but the idea of having a blog is just not your cup of tea, then maybe becoming a Freelance Writer is for you. There are so many online blogs and magazines that are looking for writers to help them with their content. The best part is they are wanting to pay you to write for them. This gives you that opportiunity to make money traveling because as a Freelancer, you work when you want.

You can also check out websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or People per Hour to find jobs. You can even start a business, build a website, and with time can really make money online. There are some Freelancer writers making $30-100K a year. All depends on you!

7. Virtual Assistant and Make money Traveling

This one is very similar to Freelance writing, but instead of writing blog posts or articles you are helping others with their daily tasks. This is something I have always been so good at. I enjoy helping others be successful because in turn, that made me successful.

If that sounds like you, you can become a virtual assistant by being hired with a company, or you can freelance. If you really are wanting a free schedule, then freelancing is the way to go. Usually companies have set schedules and times they need you to work.

As a Virtual Assistant, the tasks you can help with are endless, so I would narrow down a just a few tasks that you are good at and market those. For Example, If you’re great at scheduling, keeping up with emails, and proofreading material then let your prospects know.

Some websites to check out are

–Upwork.com
–Taskseveryday.com
–Peopleperhour.com
–Indeed.com

So, I know there are a ton of articles stating what you can do from home to earn an income. While there are many other options, these top 7 are legit ways you can leave the 9-5 job and travel by RV on the road or international and make money traveling.

I don’t want to overwhelm you, because starting anything and trying to make money online is overwhelming enough. Pick one that works for you and run with it.

I do have to say it will take some work. Not one of these options is going to get you rich quick, so if that’s what you are looking for then starting a blog or business just isn’t for you and that’s okay.

For me, finding that Remote Job was my goal, then I work on my blog on the side. Maybe that’s the route for you as well. There are many companies looking for remote employees.

So, if you’re willing to put in the time, want to set your own schedule and travel the world, then you will succeed!

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12 of the Best Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in San Diego

12 of the Best Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in San Diego

by | Hiking, Travel | 35 comments

The Sunny City of San Diego has more to offer than just some gorgeous beaches. This city is home to beautiful natural hiking trails that will get you and your family outside and breathing that fresh air.

Hiking trails in San Diego are plentiful with the hill and mountainous terrain. The best hikes are those that get you close to nature and experiencing the beauty of the land. I also believe that hiking is a wonderful activity for kids to explore, learn, and exercise all at the same time.

So, get your hiking boots, camelbacks, and sunscreen ready, because the views while hiking in San Diego are spectacular!

 1. Cowles Mountain Trail (Mission Trails Regional Park) Best Hiking Trails In San Diego for Families

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3 Miles
Elevations: 908 Feet
Route: Out & Back 

This beautiful trail is one of the top scenic hiking routes in San Diego. The Cowles Mountain gives you spectacular 360 panoramic views of Downtown San Diego, Mexico, North County, and Orange County. 

The Cowles Mountain Trail is perfect for all ages! It is a moderate trail that is great for running, mountain biking, hiking, families, and dogs as long as they are on a leash. The trail is a bit rocky and little to no shade spots to rest, so maybe bring a hat and of course water!

2. Los Penasquitos Canyon TrailBest Hiking Trails In San Diego for Families

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7.4 Miles
Elevation: 147 Feet
Route: Loop 

The Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail is wonderful for the whole family because it’s mainly flat. This is a great trail because you can choose to make your hike/walk/run as long or as short as you’d prefer. You may see many bikers, runners, and even horse-back riders along this trail. 

This hike is popular because of the gorgeous waterfall and beautiful bridges. There is one precaution, however, and that is to be careful during the wet season. The trail tends to have muddy areas but it’s nothing that can’t be walked around. 

3. Sunset Cliffs Park Trail (Sunset Cliffs National Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.7 Miles
Elevations: 150 Feet
Route: Out & Back

A very popular trail that is year-round and great for all skill levels to enjoy. This trail gives you an opportunity to see local wildlife and sandy beaches. Sunset Cliffs Park Trail is perfect for the whole family including dogs on leashes. 

This hike is considered to be one of San Diego’s best hikes to watch the sunset over the coast. It is also a beautiful place for a romantic stroll.

4. Lake Miramar Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.9 Miles
Elevation: 98 Feet
Route: Loop

Lake Miramar Trail is the perfect place to enjoy nature and still have the luxury of modern paved walk-ways. The trail is great for families of all types and is stroller/wheelchair friendly. Dogs on leashes are also welcome to enjoy a stroll. 

Be cautious because it is a heavily tracked trail but it does provide bathrooms through the 4.9-mile loop. 

5. Oak Canyon to Grasslands (Mission Trails Regional Park)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.7 Miles
Elevation: 344 feet
Route: Loop

Oak Canyon to grasslands is a heavily trafficked trail great for kids and dogs on leashes. If you enjoy hiking with great views, nature, birds, and more then this trail is for you. 

It’s considered a moderate trail because some places are a bit rocky and may require more solid shoes like hiking boots or tennis shoes with good traction. The Oak Canyon to Grasslands trail is a nice and peaceful hike but not much shade so bring a hat. 

6. Seven Bridge Walk (Balboa Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.6 Miles
Elevation: 485 Feet
Route: Loop

The Seven Bridges Walk is wonderful for everyone of all ages. The best times to go is between April and September. There are plenty of open fields that you may want to rest, so bringing a towel or blanket to sit on is recommended. 

The trail is not shaded so a hat and water is a must to bring along. The trail does run through the city and it has stopping points with crossing streets, so keep the kids and pets close! 

7. Visitor Center Loop Trail (Mission Trails Regional Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.4 Miles
Elevation: 160 Feet
Route: Loop

This looping trail is great for the kids and pets. It is another heavily trafficked trail that many enjoy running and even horseback riding along. This trail is located partly along a river so you and the kids can stop and skip rocks or relax by the water. 

The views are gorgeous and the walk is nice and peaceful. It’s a short loop to get out for a quick walk or run. 

8. Tecolote Canyon Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.7 Miles
Elevation: 538 Feet
Route: Out & Back

This trail is a long hike but you can turn back at any time. It has stunning features and is accessible year-round. The trail is pretty easy for children to walk along and is dog-friendly. 

You may want to avoid this trail, however, if it’s been raining as it can obtain mud and puddles during the wet season. 

9. Bayside Trail (Cabrillo National Monument)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 Miles
Elevation: 205 Feet
Route: Our & Back

If you’re looking for the perfect family-friendly trail that gives you spectacular views of the coast, this is the one! This trail is easy and has access for strollers and wheelchairs. 

This trail also located at the Historic Monument that commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo who was the first expedition to land at the San Diego Bay. Great historical learning site for the kiddos. 

10. Nighthawk Trail to Black Mountain Summit

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.9 Miles
Elevation: 846 Feet
Route: Out & Back

Nighthawk trail is a wonderful options for families who enjoy a little challenge as is can be quite rocky with a steady incline. However, the views and wildflowers along the trail are spectacular. This trail can also be made in to a loop if you desire to hike down Black Mountain Service Road.

The trail is also pet friendly with dogs allowed as long as they are leashed. You may even see some mountain bikers on this trail so keep an eye out. Shade is non-exsitent on the trail so you may want to wear a hat or sunglasses.

11. Point Loma Tidepools and Bluffs Trail (Cabrillo National Monument)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1 Mile
Elevation: 45 Feet
Route: Out & Back

This trail is wonderful for all skill level hikers looking for a quick outdoor adventure. It has beautiful beach and wildlife scenery and is open year-round.

If you plan on bringing the kids, watch them closey as it could become slippery.

12. Mission Bay Trail (Mission Bay Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.3 Miles
Elevation: 52 Feet
Route: Out & Back

Mission Bay Trail is popular amongst the locals. It is used heavily for running, hiking, and biking. The trail is open year round and is pet and kid friendly. The path is paved the entire way which makes it great to bring along stollers or those in wheelchairs.

This trail also has great views of the Bay and you may even see ducks along the water. It is the perfect place for a morning or evening stroll.

I hope you enjoyed this great list of the best kid-friendky hiking trails in San Diego that you can explore with your whole family. Feel free to check out more options at alltrails.com. Thanks for stopping by!

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Top 10 Budget-Friendly Things To Do in San Diego for Families

Top 10 Budget-Friendly Things To Do in San Diego for Families

by | Travel

Sunny San Diego, California! I dream about this place because it was the first trip my husband and I went on together as a couple. It is also the place my husband was born and revisited every year when he was a kid.

I love enjoying everything this city has to offer, especially if it’s free or budget-friendly.

In case you’re wondering, this picture of us was at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. That day we saw the seal lions on “seal rock” and I can’t stop thinking about how great of a time we had.

So I’ve put together 10 fun things to do for the whole family that is looking to stay on a budget.

1. Pacific Beach Boardwalk

This beach is great for all ages. You can soak up the bright culture of So Cal while taking a stroll along the boardwalk. There are great places to grab a bite and listen to music. You can also build sandcastles, surf it up, or fish along the pier. This beach has it all!

2. Children’s Pool at La Jolla Cove

Children’s Pool received its name for the low waves after a wall barrier was built to protect the sandy cove.  While swimming during the season, parents don’t have to worry about large waves or rip currents.

However, Children’s Pool does have an offseason. This happens from December 15th through May 15th when newly born seal pups are born. During this time the cove is closed and usually covered with sea lions.

If you do go while it’s open to the public, and you still want to view the natural wildlife, the sea lions like hanging out on what the locals call “seal rock” not far from the children’s pool.

3. Old Town San Diego Historic State Park

The park connects you to the past of Old Town San Diego. It was California’s First Spanish settlement! You and your family can enjoy great hiking trails, Souvenir shopping, exhibits and museums fun for all ages.

4. Birch Aquarium at Scribbs

Who doesn’t love a good aquarium visit when you’re so close to the ocean? This is a great way to get the kids safely involved with their surroundings. The whole family can enjoy feeding times and shows daily for one admission cost per person. It’s only $15 for children and $19.50 for adults. Also, don’t forget to check out Groupon for extra savings!

5. All Famous – San Diego Zoo

This one is my favorite and a definite must-go for the whole family while in San Diego! We went and loved every minute of it! You’ll experience about 3,500 different animals across the 100 acres. It is one of the world’s largest Zoos and also the home to the Giant Panda. Their is an admission cost and it’s worth every penny!

6. Waterfront Walkway

If you love history and enjoy taking your kids places where they can learn, then the waterfront walkway is a great place to take a stroll. Here you can find the Maritime Museum, Cruise ports, Navy Ships, as well as, the Famous WWII Unconditional Surrender Statue. 

7. Gas Lamp District

This area is great for families during the daytime. In the evenings it turns in to more of the nightlife crowd. However, during the day families can enjoy the historic ventures of the town, dine at Michelin Star Restaurants, and shop at great boutiques.

8. Little Italy

This lively neighborhood is great for families to stroll through during the day. There are cute cafe’s, pubs, art galleries, boutique shopping, and an italian Market place to explore. You will definitly want to dine and enjoy some amazing Italian cuisine.

9. COranodo Island Dog Beach

Calling all Dog Lovers!! This beach is perfect for the whole family, including the 4 legged ones with waging tails. This Beach is beautiful with white sands, furry friends, fire pit rings, and more. Even if you’re out of town and had to leave your furry friend at home, you can still enjoy the beach.

10. PetCO ball park

For the sports fanatics, watching a live Padres Baseball game at Petco Park is a great way to spend the day! Kids are free under 36 inches with a valid adult ticket.

We enjoyed our San Deigo trip and I have no doubt that you and your family will too!

Which one of these things do you plan on doing while in San Diego? Leave a comment!

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Family Vacation: Why its Important Save and Plan for One Every Year

Family Vacation: Why its Important Save and Plan for One Every Year

by | Travel

Planning a Family Vacation can be difficult when your life seems so busy. The days just fly by with everything from work, kids, after school programs, trying to stay in shape, family, friends, and so much more.

All of this makes taking a vacation difficult! We get it! 

On top of the busyness of life, you then have the expensive prices of traveling with airfare, hotel stays, and the cost of experiences when you get to your destination.

Everything combined seems to make the idea of taking a family vacation even more impossible. With all these factors in place, before you know it’s been years since you’ve taken a vacation. It’s time to stop letting that happen! It’s time to start saving and taking those much-needed vacations! 

If you ask me, I think taking a vacation should be required at least once a year for every family.

Now, we get that it can be difficult to leave your job for a week when all you can think of is “I need the money” or “I can’t leave my work because I’m afraid to get behind”. 

Just know anyone can make up their own personal excuses as to why they can’t take a family vacation. But we are here to tell you why you NEED to take a vacation and how saving and booking in advance ensures that you do! 

why it’s important to save for your vacation

Many people don’t have the capacity to just book a flight and take a two-week vacation at any time. If you’re like us and you want to take a vacation, it can take time to save up the cost to truly afford a trip and have a great experience. 

You need to save for your vacation because if you don’t, you may end up going years without dipping your toes in the sand or skiing down those slopes. Those years just end up going to waste along with all the Paid Time Off that you may have accrued.

So, whatever your ideal vacation is, start saving and searching now! Don’t let another year go by without taking the time off for yourself and family.

Another reason to save for your vacation is so you can enjoy your vacation while you’re there. Knowing you set aside money to spend will help you have fun without stressing on how much you’re spending.

It will also prevent over-spending and using money that should be used towards other important bills.


why it’s important to plan

Scheduling your vacations ahead of time gives you and your family something to look forward too.

As a kid, I remember when my parents would tell us months in advance when we were going to Hawaii or Disney. I looked forward to that time! I couldn’t wait until our family vacation.

Depending on your type of vacation, if you book early you can actually save money! Vacations like cruises for example.

Many cruise lines love to give out promotions to cruises a year in advance to get things booked up. Plus, by booking early you have the option to make payments throughout the year.

Another reason to book early is you’re more likely to go through with actually going. By booking early, you have the time to put in for PTO and schedule things in advance.

Plus, it also allows time for any family member to ensure that their documents, like passports, are up to date. The last thing you want is to pay more for a rushed passport because they can be up to $200 dollars.

Tips on how to budget for a yearly vacation 

Figure out how much your vacation is going to cost because the price is going to vary depending on where you are going and what you will be experiencing while you are there.

I like to schedule a year in advance because it gives you more time to save and pay it off. However, if you can afford and budget for a vacation sooner than a year away, then go for it!

Once you’ve broken it down, then add it in your budget. Look at it as a necessity like your mortgage/rent payment. After all, taking a vacation should be a priority for everyone! 

I hope this has inspired you to start searching, saving, and even book your next family vacation because you deserve it! Your family deserves it! 
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How to Find Free Camping in the USA

How to Find Free Camping in the USA

by | Camping, RV Tips, Travel | 12 comments

Free Camping! Doesn’t that sound amazing?

Well, if you’re here you either love to camp or maybe you actually live full-time in an RV like us. I am sure you have come to notice that camping in many places can either cost you $10 a night for a tent camping site or the upper cost of $110 for a full hook-up RV site.

When you’re on a budget, like we always are, finding anything for ‘free’ is a huge win!

Now, can you imagine being out on the road and spending on average $20 to  $35 for a full hook up for your RV? That’s about $1000 a month and for us, that was a month’s rent on a 1 bedroom apartment. We moved into an RV to eliminate those costs. We were tired of spending over $1000 a month to live in a 700 sqft apartment. It made us feel stuck and we were working to just pay the basic rent and food. I don’t know about you, but for us, that just wasn’t worth it.

Therefore finding camping spots for free was a no brainer for us. But how is that possible? Is it possible?

It totally is possible!!

You just have to research it out. Luckily we have put together our knowledge from our research right here for you! Whether you are looking to boondock in your RV, van, car,  or bus aka dry camp or enjoy the week or weekend tent camping.

You can camp for FREE!

Option 1: National Parks

 As of 2019, America has a total of 61 National Parks. The newest national park added to the list is the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan. If you’re objective or goal is to see them all, just know you only have to go to 29 states and two U.S. territories.

Within these National Parks, you will find the beauty of this Great Nation, amazing Wildlife, Mountains, and Beaches. In order to camp for free, be prepared to boondock or dry camp. National parks do not have the same amenities as RV parks such as your full hookups. That means no running water and no power.

Also, if you are in an RV and plan on finding a spot in a national park to stay it is advised that you plan out your route. Many places in the parks can be tight fits, winding and/or narrow roads. Also, keep in mind the size of your RV, this will help determine where you can go in the park with your rig.

Although camping is ‘free’, many National Parks may not allow Dispersed Camping, meaning camping outside of a designated campground area. To determine designated campsites there will be fire pit rings and/or picnic tables. Check the website for the park you are going to be visiting to see what that specific park allows and ensure yourself that you know the rules.

 

What kind of camping is allowed: RV, Tent, Van, Car, or Converted Bus
How long can you camp: The length of dry camping in one site on National Park land is 14 days.
How you can find National Parks and get more details just visit: https://nps.gov

Option 2: Bureau of Land Management or BLM

What is it? BLM or Bureau of Land Management is defined as undeveloped public land. They are great camping spots for your campers who love solitude and enjoys the great outdoors. The majority of camp spots found on BLM is dispersed camping sites.

However, if you’re lucky you could find a spot someone has camped before by simple markers like a fire pit ring. Every free campsite on BLM grounds is first come, first serve. This is your true 100% boondocking on remote sites. This allows you to find some hidden gems and explore areas many people don’t even think about.

If you don’t like the first come, first serve option you can reserve a campsite on the BLM land for a price at recreation.gov.

 

What kind of camping is approved? RV, Tent, Van, Car, or Converted Bus
How long can you stay? The maximum time one can stay on BLM land is 14 days.
How you can find BLM camp areas: BLM areas include National Wild and Scenic Rivers, Historic Trails, Landmarks, Recreation Trails, and National Wilderness Areas. You can find BLM campsites at recreation.gov

Option 3: Parking Lots & Small Town Venues

There are many different options you can stay at if you are in a Car, Van, or an RV. These are free short-term overnight options and we highly suggest always asking management before spending the night. Another great tip to find free overnight rest areas when traveling in an RV, Car, or Van is to stop by the local Sheriff office.

Also, keep in mind these are free one night stays, so don’t set up camp, and leave your slides in (if possible). If you have a fifth wheel, bumper pull, or towing anything keep everything hooked up. Also, always park in the far back away from general parking or traffic.

Here is a list of potential parking lots you could stay overnight at:

  • Truck Stops
  • Casinos
  • Walmart
  • Nightclubs
  • Cemetery
  • Fairgrounds
  • Parks
  • Churches
  • Hotel Parking Lots
  • RV Dealerships
  • Cracker Barrel
  • Movie Theaters
  • Highway Rest Stops
  • Big Box Retailers: Sams Club, Costco, ect.
  • Roadside Parks and Picnic Areas


What kind of camping is approved?: RV, Car, Van,  or Converted Bus …. Sorry no tent pitching
How long can you stay?: 1 night (Depending on Management)
How can you find these spots?: Google Maps or stop by the local Sheriffs office.

Option 4: Google “Free Camp Spots Near Me”

I know it may seem obvious but I’m serious, sometimes just googling something can bring up places that you never even thought of. For example, I just googled “Free Campsites in Texas” because that is where we live and actually found a free RV site with hookups. Those are completely unheard of, but it has great reviews and can exist anywhere.


Here are some Online Resources to find great camping spots for free:

There you have it! If you enjoy camping, are on a strict budget, and don’t mind “roughing” it, then Boondocking aka dry camping is right up your ally. If you have an RV, investing in solar panels is a great idea if you still want electricity and don’t want to burn up a loud generator and gas.

To sum this all up, if you don’t want to spend over $1000 a month just to stay at the campsite every night, you don’t’ have too. You can travel the nation and visit all the amazing scenery and not pay a single dime on a site. It does take some planning and adjusting to the Boondocking lifestyle, but the amount of money you will save is amazing.


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Tips on Making Your Camping Trip Fun with Your Dog!

Tips on Making Your Camping Trip Fun with Your Dog!

by | Adventures, Camping, Dogs, Travel | 32 comments

Camping with dogs can be either an extremely fun and enjoyable experience, or it can be a stressful disaster. We have 3 dogs that we love taking everywhere with us, especially on camping trips. However, when we take them into a new environment, they get curious. Their curiosity causes stress because the last thing I want is to lose one of my pets.

So, I searched for many ways of training dogs, so I can stop worrying about them in areas that are unknown. My goal was to trust my dogs that they aren’t going to run off, disturb any nearby neighbors, or become so distracted that they don’t listen when we call.

I wanted to know the best ways to keep a dog distracted and exhausted, so they don’t do something during a family camping trip that causes frustration or fear. Therefore, I’ve put together our favorite things we have tried that helps keep the family and the pets having a fun and adventurous camping vacation.

1. Give them a job

You’re probably wondering, “what, give your dog a job”? “How do I do that?”

Surprisingly, when you put a dog backpack on your pet, this stimulates that dogs’ brain that they are working. They are carrying their own water, food, or toys. Dogs love being useful, especially if you have a breed like a Labrador, Collie, or Shepherd to name a few. These breeds are working dogs and enjoy the brain stimulation a job gives them.

2. Bring the treats

If you have a pet that is food motivated, like our three pooches, then bringing the treats is the greatest idea. When we go on camping trips we bring not only small quick treats, but also larger chew toys like deer antlers or a stuffed Kong to keep them busy.


3. Go on a hike

This is great when camping because you’re going to be out in the wilderness anyways. Why not take a day and explore the area? Plus, your beloved pets will absolutely love it! This is a great time to put on that dog backpack for them as well. Not only are you giving them a job, but you’re also releasing all that energy most dogs have during the day so they can relax and sleep later by the fire. Plus, they are carrying their own water and food.

If you need any recommendations on dog leashes or harnesses check out my post on the Gentle Leaders here. We use them for all three of our dogs, it keeps them from pulling during walks/hikes.

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4. Take a swim

I only suggest this is you are by a lake or pond while camping. Our dogs love to get in the water and cool off. Taking a swim is a great way to exhaust them and keep them cool in the summer heat, depending on where you’re camping. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings while your pets are swimming.

5. Play their favorite game or learn a new trick

Does your pet love to play fetch or frisbee? One of our dogs literally lives to play fetch. We can carry a ball with us anywhere and he will follow us until we throw it for him.

If fetch isn’t your pets ideal game but running around and playing with them is their favorite bonding time, go for it!  Camping trips are great to just play and have a good time. It’s is also a great time to also teach them a new trick or game as well.

I hope you enjoy your camping trip with your beloved dogs. I know we love taking them camping and they love it too. Plus, camping and hiking creates a stronger bond between you and your pets as well as builds your pets confidence levels.

If you have anything you enjoy doing on your camping trips with your dogs that keeps them having fun, please share! We would love to hear!

Don’t forget to share this your pet loving friends and family who also love to camp!


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