Technology Dependency

One of the most frustrating aspects of my journey has been technology.  Since I am still working and seeing clients, I am dependent upon technology and on the road, there are some real challenges.

I purchased a solar charging unit for my phone but it only actually worked once.  So that was a waste of money.  I have my car phone charger as a backup, but for some reason this is not working either.  So I become dependent upon Cafe’s and Campground lounges to charge my phone and my laptop.

When I am in session for five plus hours a day, I run the risk of my laptop battery draining.  I have a new Asus Zenbook which is supposed to have a good twelve hour battery, but I find I am lucky to get a solid six hours from it.  I find myself having to book a “charging break” in my day and go have a cup of coffee or tea in a place with outlets.

My morning coffee charging time is mandatory.  I begin each day with fully charged electronics and do what I can to conserve.

Now I understand why having solar panels installed on the top of one’s rig is important.  As I was watching all the youtube video’s of people who live in their Van’s or Rv’s, most will have a couple solar panels installed that keep not only their electronics charged but also their fridge.  I would have to choose between my roof cargo rack or solar panels.  It would make sense to pair down the amount of “stuff” I think I need to have, lose the cargo rack and install the solar panels.  That would be next trip.  I’ve already managed to get three weeks in and even with the electronics issue, I am managing.

Many travelers depend upon campground electronics.  Campgrounds charge very good money for “hookups.”  It is typical to pay anywhere from $40.00 to $60.00 per night for an RV hookup spot.  Even if one spent $45.00 per night, plus tax, on camping, they would be investing roughly$1500.00 per month on parking.  For some, this is simply factored into their budget, but for me, it doesn’t make financial sense.

What I have found about most RV parks and commercial campgrounds is they make the most of their real estate and don’t give a lot of space between units.

For me the whole idea of camping is to get out in nature.  Not to be so close the camper next to me that I can hear every word they say, smell their cooking, hear their music and in some cases, even hear them snoring at night.  To me, this is not my idea of a good time.

I understand that people with big camping rigs, just shut themselves in at night, like they would their homes, and turn on their television sets, their air conditioning and all the comforts of home.  They really don’t hear their neighbors.

The night I had to put in ear plugs because I could hear the camper next door snoring, was the night I decided I needed more space around me.

Fortunately today, the summer solstice, the San Juan National Forests are opening back up, and so I get to retreat back into the forest, where there is a lot more open space.  I also only take clients Monday through Wednesday, so I have some days free of electronical worries.

Overall I am so very grateful for our electronics, because it allows me to be “FREE!”  I can go anywhere and still work, as long as I can get a signal.  And this is why I am able to be on this “Flying Solo” journey.

Happy Summer Solstice!