Saving on expenses

Sorry -- is this better ??

Look forward to shaking your hand on one of my trips --

We spent the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas last year selling Christmas Trees in central, coastal California. We worked 16-18 hours per day for $60 per day each, a full hook up on site, completion bonus and small commission. It was hard work but we survived and added to the checkbook enough to spend some time in San Diego and then go meet Larry in the desert. We'd recommend it but since we won't be back on the left coast this winter we will not do it again. If anyone is interested in it be careful--in fact, if you are interested, email us and we will send you the information on Hopper Bros and tell you how to contact them. Some of the other operators operate differently and you could loose money in the process.

During the week of Labor Day we work for O'Riley Raceway Park near Indianapolis during the MAC Tools Nationals of the NHRA. Again we work hard for pretty good money and overtime but camping is boondocking. Bev sells tickets and I take them. The best part of the week is the other workampers and the day after travel safely breakfast is a feast of food and friendship. Anyone who would be interested in joining us is welcome to contact us.

Two winters ago we did grunt work at a rural nudist camp. 20 hours per week for a full hook up and access to the Jaccusi. We enjoyed clearing brush and painting during the off-season. No pay.

Now we are at Fort Pulaski National Monument near Savannah working as VIPs (Volunteers In Parks). Four days on, three off for a full hook up. As I am a Civil War nut this is a perfect place for us and we will probably be here over next winter.

Workamping is a great way for fulltimers to suplement their limited income and do some things they like to do. Try it, find something that fits your interests and give it a shot.

Glenn

We just started extended-timing last Sep. We quickly came to the same conclusion as Larry's 2.2.3 rule. The only thing I would do is make it a 2.2.7 rule in order to get the weekly rates when possible. Frequent moves and fuel are what kills our budget. The 2nd most budget killer is food, so we rarely eat out -- the cost/benefit ratio isn't very good. However, we do eat real well at home (I like ribeye steak). When we are out sightseeing during the day, we usually pack a lunch rather than spend $6 on a hamburger.

If anyone wants to boondock in central Idaho, let me know. I have 36 acres of pasture land that can accomodate 50 or 60 rigs.

[code:1]I have two pads on my property. One for me that we live on in the rig, and one for quests.
So far, I've only been able to convince one of my friends to do that. Perhaps I need more friends. [/code:1]

Invite us and send us an address - we'll be there for as long you'll let us stay! Just kidding (mostly) But we do enjoy staying with friends that have the 2nd RV hook-up. It's a great way to help with the expenses, but it's also fun to be with friends.

As far as seasonal jobs (workamping) - this is our third season and 4th seasonal job. Three have been good, but not fantastic. However, we would go back to any of the three. Just expect to make minimum wage and ready to work. When we take a job, we both want 40hrs a week and a free RV site (FHU). Since many seasonal workers are a bit more elderly than us, they don't want to work much. We've never had problems finding seasonal work. I'm managing this year and still have an open position for a maintenance person, includes FHU site.

Larry I'm a good maintenace person and full timer, How long that offer will be available?

nomads,

Actually, we've expanded the open positions. We're looking for two couples (preferred) to work 40 hrs/week each. These positions will probably be open until filled, or until mid July. Compensation includes free site and all hours paid at $7.50 hourly wage.

Current positions open include:
1) Maintenance
2) Camp Host
3) Camp Host
4) Relief Camp Host & Minor Maintenance

This is at various Forest Service campgrounds around Huntington Lake in the Sierra NF, California. If interested, send me a private email for more details and application process info.

We are pretty new to the RVing. Our second year. Our interest is more into seeing the country and traveling for a month or two a year right now. We boondock two nights or three before checking into a campground to refill & empty & shower. I think the extra 100 miles of driving could be a little dangerous if you become tired. Walmarts, Crackerbarrels (our favorite), Lowe's, Home Depots and Kmarts very often will let you stay. We've had no problems with this routine so far.

We mostly are gone early enough not to interfere with their parking, and by the time we stop and see things, stop to eat etc., its usually 8 or 9 before we arrive at their parking lots.

Just our thoughts.