After leaving Montreal and building a tiny camper trailer, I bought some cheap land in the middle of the desert to set up an off-grid home base "oasis" sort of thing. Then I started to go a little stir-crazy...
Just so brutally honest and humorous at the same time. Great video, perfectly done. Wow, life is hard especially in the desert. I wouldn't make it a day. Thanks so much for sharing.
Timing in life is crucial. I am 49 at the time of writing this and am pretty fed up with most people's lack of attention and awareness, including friends. By the time I am financially ready to go off grid, I think I'll welcome the isolation. If I had tried this in my '20's/30's, there would have been no way.
Absolutely. Timing, expectations, knowing (a bit) what you're getting yourself into and doing it intentionally, and knowing yourself better in these kinds of situations. I ended up returning to my property and continuing to develop it, but it's been a lot more of an enjoyable challenge this time around. Also knowing the signs of "oooookay, it's time to gtfo for a bit" so you can not get to another breaking point...
@@derekmctavish you never built a plumbing system for a home, and learned about moisture management and condensation. All the vents and pipes are condensing surfaces and it causes the wood to rot. Bathrooms are awful,.and cost a lot of money, and depreciate quickly. If you knew anything about building stick frame construction, you wouldnt complain about pooing in an outhouse. And if you're worried about bugs or snakes, just poo on the ground when no cars are around , shovel it into a bin. If you had any common sense, you would make a.shower tent. .so you could do yoga while you bathe..you could do hot yoga, and bathe.... which you can't do in a home. Rinse off with cold water. No heat. No cost. Just water. And you get to make your joints healthy. You need a reality check.
Before you park your hot box in the desert, build a cover, say 40' x 40'. Catch your water off your roof and put solar up there. Use evaporated cooling to save on the amps required. Suppliment your water deficit by hauling or a well. There is still land cheap and very scenic, but not where the sharks are trying to sell.
I did it too. But I went to do it in the Caribbean. I can do without people, but that’s because I’m a very private person. I do need the climate. That! Was my deal breaker outta NYC. 16 years waiting to miss NY or my busy social life. 😅 still waiting. But I can be by the ocean in 35 minutes by car or hike down my own mountain. But the desert 🏜️ is something to be reckon with. My respects and admiration for your resilience.
I think if you are a real independent person, you are at your physical strongest in your 20s and 30s, and are able to push yourself the most mentally as well. It is more enjoyable time to push more and explore limits. Sure, when you get older, you have the wisdom, but you no longer have the strength. I did all, or most the things I wanted to do when I was young. When I was strong, and independent. You make your own path, we all get old/older, and personal priorities change with family.
Let's talk about the elephant in the room that I have deduced after many years of observance. Some people - particularly many men can't stand to be alone. I have lived alone for 10 years without much interaction and it really doesn't bother me very much at all. To each their own.
@@omar-uu8qofor me it took about two or three years alone before I realized how blessed I was to do absolutely whatever I wanted whenever I wanted. Or to just do nothing at all. It all became good.
Pro Tip.....They sell things call "travel trailers" with all those things already included......actually there are thousands and thousands for sale as used for very cheap compared to what you would spend building them yourself.....
Bingo, I agree there are many different reasons that folks may want to do their own build, it's custom so you do it your way, the RV's that are out now have poor build quality and last you can save some money but I agree with you, why come on here and complain when you already knew the deal, like this whole video doesn't make sense but then again these you tubers got to get views, no hate just calling this out.
I bought an acre in Arizona last year, bought an old van fixed it up for camping and headed out. Didn’t take me long to realize that, that’s not what I want to do, at least for now, I still have the van and the acre of land so we’ll see.
I applaud you for giving it a shot, and also for recognizing that the idea wasn't the same as reality. Sometimes it's difficult to let go of something once you've invested time, money, etc. into it. Land is never a bad thing to have sitting around if you need it.
Living in the desert is not for everyone. No big deal. You came, you saw, it's not for you. That's cool. You're young, try some other or many other adventures. Personally, I moved to the desert and have been living off grid since I was 65. Just celebrated my ten year anniversary. I love it. Yes, one will endure hardship, set backs and every challenge imaginable and I'm sure there are more to come. Everything in life has a price. One just has to decide if the price is worth it. My home in the desert is an on-going work in progress but this is the life I chose ...it's home and I'll be here for the rest of my life. Happy Trails to you and whatever trails you pursue.
Thank you for the kind and supportive response. 10 years off-grid huh? That's pretty amazing! It's definitely a huge challenge, and I've found there are some pretty big rewards that can come with it, but yeah I think ultimately not for me. I have been back at the property mostly on and a bit off for the last 3 years, and... idk, I think I've definitely explored the experience for what it's worth to me. Ultimately not my thing, but as I am approaching plans to move on, I definitely don't regret the experience. Good luck with your continued off-gridding!
I did something similar…2021, left California & bought a piece of property on the side of a mountain in NW Montana. Here, I’m inside most of the 5 months during winter. Lived in my converted schoolbus, just generator electricity, no running water, wood stove heat. Legit snowed in last winter, right now welcoming the first melting. Down in the valley? No snow, life is running as usual. I love solitude, but love people, too. I’ll keep this place & continue to upgrade it…but looking for a location in the valley, and will spend 4-5 months a year on the road starting this coming winter. Good video!
It really gives you a perspective of what it was like for the Frontiers people. Youngster, you can't be alone right now. This is the time in your life to be clean and social. Enjoy you blessed life.
I've definitely come to realize how much more fun this would be with other people around. Traveling a lot to go see friends and meet new ones has been a nice balance. Thanks for the support!
Plant some native trees and some fruits such as Figs, Pomergrante, and Olive. Also passively harvest rainwater into the soil. This will provide you a purpose and a benefit to the land. 🙏 May you receive what you seek.
That's a great idea, and I appreciate the specific recommendations; certainly seems like you know what you're talking about based on the content of your channel. What funny is having grown up in Havasu, collecting rainwater never seemed viable. But like, I mean, it's literally raining right now. This winter has been a weird one.
@Derek McTavish Any bit of rainwater captured will definitely have a beneficial effect, focus it into the soil and get some pioneering trees such as Mesquite and Palo Verde planted out there. In no time you'll be chilling under some shade and have edible products off the trees.
@@RegenerativeMojave omg that would be just... amazing. Shade, and also the wind blocking aspect of it too. I really appreciate your advice, that's awesome. Honestly, I'd love to pick your brain/consult about some of this -- if you're up for it, shoot me an email? derek@mctavi.sh I'll certainly scour the contents of your channel, too. Based on the dirt/plants/etc It looks like I'm not far from your area of the Mohave. California?
@@derekmctavish Apologies for the late reply, I will be shooting you an email, I'd love to help where I can. You are correct about where my site is. I'm in the 29palms region of the Mojave desert.
It's good to get some news :) Also I can relate on a bunch of things. I though I'd be fine self isolating at home seeing that I'm pretty comfortable with myself. But not seeing anyone for more than a month was actually harder than I thought. Also I've been thinking a lot about tiny houses and stuff like that and I always come to the conclusion that I'd prefer a small appartment with all the comfort. Anyways, glad to see you're doing well.
It's surprising, isn't it ? While I spend most of my time alone anyway, I do think the human contact means that much more because it's so "infrequent." To not have it at all for days or weeks or months on end... And yeah, comforts like light switches are awfully nice to have. ;)
Wow-- I'm dazzled by your story-telling chops :) Your script-writing, your acting, your camera shots, your editing... Of course, we've known for a decade that you can do all this stuff masterfully, but you've put it all together again :) Even your own camera-laden drone! I'm glad you are in a more comfortable situation for now, and you're healthy and taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. Now, to the crux of the matter: It's time for me to mail cards. Whither?! Oops-- this is james holland lurking behind my nom de RU-vid ;)
I mean, when you asked where to mail the cards... like, who else asks that? "I know who this is!" tang through my head. And thank you for the kind words. :) Ask me again next October, and I'll try to reply in under 2 years.
I love hearing the real scoop about living in the desert! Your honesty is so refreshing! I watch several YT channels about people building their home in the desert and they rarely show the bad parts. I like how you shined a light onto those areas. Good luck to you.
You just don't know what the reality of living the life until you do it. We are social beings, and not everyone can live by themselves. There's no shame in realizing it's not the life for you! Good perspective, and thanks for sharing!
Thank you, that's very kind. I've gotta earn the trust of the YT algorithm by continuing to post videos more often than every couple years, then... maybe?
This is necessary. Thank you for sharing this reality. I've got some land and I'm hoping to make a hermitage, but I will be using it as a short term escape from my urban life, not as a living situation, in part because I don't think I could do well over an extended period of time living in the in-process build. Anyway, I really appreciate you sharing this and helping show some of the reality. I know these can be hard, and I saw the reddit holier-than-though crowd giving you crap, but this is amazingly valuable to people who are considering this. Thank you =)
Dude, thanks! This video was mostly meant as a fun update for friends, but I've been amazed/honored to hear how it's resonating with people. It's a really fun thing to do, and I'd totally encourage you to do it, especially as it sounds like you have a far healthier take on it than I did. Short-term escape is a lot different than full-time living, and I think that's probably the best way to step into it. I'd love to see progress on your project when you start. :)
@@derekmctavish Well, I got the land a few weeks ago (and I did go check it out beforehand) I think my next step is just spending some time camping on it and giving myself time to devise a site plan, so it'll be slow going, but I'll let you know how it goes. I think there can be value to going full time, but it's not the path that works for me right now. Thanks again =)
@@jamesbarros950 that sounds like a great first step and way to approach it. Not to mention seeing it first was probably a wise move. :P Please do keep me updated! Seriously. And I'd me more than happy to share whatever knowledge I've gained from my experiences.
Thank you for sharing your experience. You are So Brave. I’m glad that you are listening to yourself and taking good care of yourself. Do what’s best for you. Stay well. God bless you.💐
Always listen to yourself. Absolutely. Sometimes it’s just a matter of being able to quiet everything else down enough that you can hear yourself. Thanks for watching.
We've raised 5 beautiful children in the desert off grid. 3 of which are bi lingual and NEVER touched A dam cell phone. 4 of 5 speak 10 or more languages, it's by FAR the best decision we've ever made
That's the beauty of austerity. It helps us appreciate and actually "see" again. Like living in another country for awhile. Your antenna are fully functioning upon return. Gratitude for conveniences is good for body + soul. Hope you are enjoying life now. Loved the vid.
If you deal with chronic stress you will love to spend 90 to 100% of your time alone, trust me. I live in the state capital surrounding my neighbors, family, friends and I still spend 90 to 100% of time to myself so going out in the middle of no place will be lower cost of living and enjoy being out in nature, win/win situation! I am sure there will be hard times and failures living off grid however you will have that connected to the grid as well...thanks for sharing!
It’s definitely not something I’ll claim to understand. As it stands I already like spending a lot of time to myself, and as I’ve found some peace with living out here, I’ve come to understand that part of myself more. But sometimes… it’s still really nice to go back to Montréal or NYC and be around people and friends. But not all the time - at least for me.
I think I can relate. I bought 6 acres 4 yrs ago. There was potential gardening space. I spent 3 yrs burning & digging . . . I have a garden. Okay, the chickens did help some.
Oh man, yeah.. It's so much work, right? Like, it's one thing to make a garden in your backyard, but when you're starting from actual scratch? I think it's only no big deal if you 100% know what you're in for, which basically means you've done it before. How's your property, garden, and project going these days? Also, there's a comment somewhere in here -- something about a cat colony and the cats adopting you as one of their own. I understand the sentiment of it, but the self-fabricated image of an off grid colony of cats voting on whether you're allowed to join them is hilarious to me. I'm now imagining something similar with your chickens. But more something like a union of chickens. You've got the supervisor chicken making sure none of the other chickens are violating osha regulations. You're there just like "I don't know what's happening. I just wanted a garden." I kinda took off with this one. I'm gonna go away now. 😂 Thanks for watching tho. :)
Chickens are the best. Eggs are good, too. I turned a high Sierra forest property into a garden that grew corn and tobacco. Ever seen tobacco in the mountains of California? Me neither. Chickens.
I was right there mentally 2.5 years ago. I had spent 5 years building a Homestead in southern Colorado. We were pretty comfy after years of growing pains. But work on the homestead was never ending. We decided to sell because the market was fire and we stood to make enough money to get into a real (legal) house. So that’s what we did. Now we have lived in suburbia in western Colorado for 2.5 years. My take away is I still have to do all the tasks of the homestead but now I have to work a full time job to pay the mortgage. Is it nice not having to haul water? Yes very nice. Is it nice not having to chop a winters worth of fire wood? Yes very nice. But the lack of overhead on the homestead was pure gold. We could live comfortably on less than 1/2 our current income. We had money and time to travel. We got many visitors to the homestead, suburbs not so many visitors. Overall I don’t regret starting or selling the homestead. I learned a lot and I am planning on starting another homestead in the future. If you can survive the first two years the subsequent years will pay off. Just my .2c ❤
Thank you man, I appreciate it, this video has helped me to really re-think about my adventure going off the grid here is Southern CA even tho my 2.3 acres is located in a main Road, and only 10 minutes to the tourist Barstow Oulets, I bought this land with a cabin and a trailer and it does have a well that produces lots of fresh water, but the fact that it is the high desert and weather can be harsh at some points, watching your video regarding this is not just for everyone it kind of gave me a better idea of what some fears i kind of imaging when living this way. I just think that in order to live off the grid you need to have a back up plan and some funds and savings so you can snap out of it, when necessary, but not having neither or it can be devastating in someone's life, specially individuals like me that love AC and fresh running water without the hassles, lol! thank you for your honesty man, keep the good work and lets see if you go at it again and keep us posted how it go!
There are so many sides to alternate way of living. I love the idea of the freedom and flexibility one can achieve. But it comes with ups and downs, straight and curve balls, laughter and tears. Everyman must know their limit and it seems like you know yours. Its not all unicorn and rainbows.Thanks for sharing your reality.
Thanks for the supportive words. This experience helped me find my limit for this thing, and also to recognize the signs as I'm getting close to the limit. Now it's a lot easier to be here and know when to back off, travel, etc. I know some would expect a "purist" attitude towards living off-grid -- all or nothing- but I don't really stand by that. A break here and there is nice.
Wow, what a great dose of truth. Your video should be a “must watch” for anyone interested in off grid living. I tend to be introverted and enjoy being alone but often find myself in coffee shops gleaning social comfort through background conversations. At least you explored off grid isolation, and although it didn’t deliver the experience for which your expectations hoped, it was an extremely valuable experiment that helped to shape your future. Hats off to you! 😊
I can totally relate. I still prefer spending a ton of time by myself, but sometimes just going to a cafe or restaurant to be around other people is nice. This has been and continues to be a valuable experience, so... not what I expected, but perhaps more? Thanks for the encouragement!
I live in Costa Rica renting a 7 bedroo,/5 bath house with 4 car garage on 23 acres I rent for $163 a month. All the water/sewer and trash costs $6 a month. Electric between $12 and $15. Cellphone $4, Internet $12. Perfect weather, it has never been colder than 54F never hotter than 87F.
@@derekmctavish. On the land I grow enough food to feed over 150 people. Cultivated enough for a good 500. Course I have been living outside the US over 10 years and a rental like this won't be found for a while. Expect a 3 bedroom/2 bath house renting for $180 a month or less though. Biggest thing is freedom though. Americans will soon realize after a few weeks in practically any other country how little freedom you actually have. Crime and drugs are next to non existent. But choose that lifestyle all bets are off for being a victim. Mostly by other Americans.
@@derekmctavish Added advantages. With 335 days or more outside the US each calandar year, is a $107,300 US Income Tax Exemption. For $65 a month, botrh my wife and I have National Health Care covering 100$Practically all speak English, just shy and need more practice. Yes July and August in Arizona is hell on earth. Cheapest of all is Nicaragua where average household income is $150 a month. A 3 bed/2 bath house rents for #100 a month. A 60 hour a week, cook, maid will be $80 a month. If that's too much, room and board runs $40 a month, beakfast and dinner, you are on your own for lunch. US tells you of all the Freedom you have, but fact is you have none.
Holy crap, I didn't know about the tax thing. Interesting. Indeed, there's a lot going on here that directly or indirectly limits out freedom. By like, a lot.
Exactly. There are certainly moments where it's hard to remember the positives of living off grid and in a tiny space and all that, but... it gets easier and easier, and truth is there's some pretty great stuff about it. Thanks for watching. :)
Nice off grid property in the desert w/ either an established well, or a local HOA well can be found...Yeah, it costs a bit more; but can be done. Also, property in the higher level desert environment (5000' & up), is much more bearable in the summer. Think, Northern AZ/ Southern UT border area.
Yup. I'm at 3500 ft, and that 1500 ft difference up in the mountains is huge. I camped in summer in Northern AZ and Southern UT near Kanab and it was really pleasant.
I am glad you did it. And perhaps that was the biggest point of it all. Just having the fortitude to just do it. I have lived off grid in the desert for nearly a year straight. What got to me was my wonder-lust. My feet always itch to go to the next place. But, I don't hesitate recommending the off grid experience to young people. Try it at least once. Well worth the life experience.
I can totally relate to this. If I spend too much time here, I'm itching to go elsewhere. But it's nice to come back to and settle down for a couple months at a time. And it's such a fascinating learning experience, eh? What did you have going on in your off-grid setup?
Bro thanks for posting this! I have been planning already for over a year to do the same thing! I am born and raised in Springfield IL home of Abe Lincoln and I am tired of 6 months of cold/bad weather and so I am planning to relocate this fall to AZ, TX, FL or AL! I plan on getting an Eco line van with mattress in the back and drive until I find my perfect/cheap 2 to 5 acers! Wish me luck and I will be documenting all on RU-vid as well!
I’m glad it was useful! I think you plan sounds like a great idea. Go explore, go find *the* place, not a place. I’d love to see what you upload once you start - send me a link!
Hey man, It's been a while since the last time i saw you at the Ye Olde Orchard in Montreal ! Awesome projects you have there, And nice editing. Here's a comment to help with the algorithm Cheers from the North
Yeahhh, haven't been in Montreal for a year now, and I hadn't been going to YOO all that much. I'll give you a shout when I'm there again (borders open and all.) How you been?
Wow Derek, this video was very powerful, especially when I've not seen what came before and I've seen nothing since then. I will try to get filled in a bit, but I don't have time to bingewatch everything. You seem like a totally amazing man, Derek McTavish!
@@derekmctavish I try to be nice to people, unlike many commenters that get joy out of tearing people down because they think that they know better about everything.
I love this video. The funniest part was when you were talking about it being hot, and then you are in a pool.... I have thought about moving there as backup many times, but cannot get past the heat, and hardly any trees. And... I am old and lazy now too, but this was a nice balance to a lot of other videos talking about how great it is.
In sanders Arizona there is lots of trees .. if someone buys a lot look for one with trees to you can have a outdoor bed to relax on but screen it in cause flies and max tempts here are 99 degrees average is 90 degrees
I've a friend that lives in a great " TINY " little town ! He has to drive 125 miles to wal-mart ... I have 5 of them within 10 miles of my house... 2 are 2 miles away.
Ouch. 125 miles is a LONG ways. I'm about 25 miles each way, so it's not too bad. But you definitely had to do some planning. I used to be walking distance to a walmart.
Dannnng 125 miles 🤐🤐🤐 no way to me it is only 15 minutes walking to Walmart here, and even less to Target that's walking not driving which is less than 5 minutes, but tbh I think this Land owners like me should focus in fixing and preparing these places for Airbnb hosting, it is a great way to enjoy it, when not rented you can spend a weekend and relaxing away from civilization, the lot I owned is only 10 minutes to Walmart, Starbucks, Raining Canes and so forth, but when you drive into it, it looks like it is in an isolated area lol! but gosh man 125 miles to Walmart so help me God.....
eye opening. whats your advice to someone thinking about buying a house, and living in a trailer in the yard while renting out the main house? Do you think the isolation and claustrophobia would still be bad? I figure i could put in the lease that i can come in the house for bathroom/cooking -- assuming the house is structured in a way where it makes sense and is not overly invasive.
Thanks for watching! I think the claustrophobia depends a lot on the particular trailer (mine was 50 sq ft, unusually small) In terms of isolation, I guess that depends mostly on your lifestyle and where you want to do it; the isolation came largely from the fact I was in the middle of the desert. I'd always suggest trying it out; live in a trailer for a week, a month -- however long it takes to get a real feel for it. Then make a choice from there.
In most places in the USA, that is illegal. Besides, the renters will destroy your house and cause you misery, will not pay the rent and will lie, lie, lie before they move in. If you share the space you will find misery like you never knew. You will hate the renters with every fiber of your being. I've been through it all. It never works.
I did the same thing 2 years ago, I bought 8 acres of land in the Pinal Valley, But I live in a 16' Camper, to be fair though I lived in it for 5 years before this while I was a traveling tech for Indian Motorcycles, One of the first things I did was buy enough Camo Netting to put over the camper, Shade makes a HUGE different in tempature, somewhere in the 20-30 degree mark. I also have Solar power, Which I bought back in my traveling tech day and I live close to a reservior lake so When I need water I just put my Water Barrel in my truck and drive to the lake and fill it up and I have a cherry picker to unload it out of my truck. When dealing with extreme temps you gotta be smart. Build you a cover for camper and you'll see a HUGE difference. As for the "loneliness" I have friends in the area that visit my homestead plus I go into town every 3-4 days to get meat, I grow my own fruits and vegetables but I still need meat so I'll pop into town very days to get meat so I have an excuse to socialize.
That sounds pretty awesome! You're totally right, shade is... I mean maybe not *everything* but without shade everything else doesn't matter. Camo netting is a great idea too because it's durable and won't interact too aggressively with the crazy winds. Re: loneliness -- I did this all during covid when travel wasn't a thing, and since then I've have a bunch of friends visit and yeah wow that makes a huge difference. I may not have friends in the area, but it's like for every person I host for a week, I get at least 2 months of "oompf" out of that. That's really awesome that you have friends in the area though. Regular friend interaction is huge for this kind of thing.
Riiight? For some people it’s some other “luxury,” but I’m glad you get it. I hope things start to get better for you; feel free to reach out any time. I get it.
Working at Canadian canoe tripping camps in the Temagami Provincial Forest of northern Ontario made me over-confident about homesteading since our base camps in the northwoods or both Northwoods Camp and Camp Keewaydin had already been built between the 1890s and the 1930s. Plus, the authorities were extremely relaxed about septic tanks, electrification and even living in platform tents in the case of Keewaydin. If you could get away with doing whatever you wished it might be different but the county engineer always screws you up by insisting that you over build everything. So I gave up on the parcel I bought in Colorado and donated it to the Catholic homeless shelter in Alamosa.
I've definitely done stuff with the land. I posted a bit of an update, and I'll have some more that focus on the property. But hey, I've got a washing machine and a hot shower now, that's a big improvement!
Derek McTavish : I spend a bit of time in Death Valley camping and talking to people who live off grid in the desert and even the mid 50’s loner types with 10 plus years of living there have some sort of community in terms of gatherings, playing music etc . I know I couldn’t live on my own in the desert without some sort of connection with other like minded weirdos and artists to interact with. Good luck in your endeavour!
@@robford3211 Yeah man, I think you nailed it. Like I'm not literally in the middle of nowhere -- there are people around. But they're not really the same kind of like-minded weirdos as me. Like don't get me wrong, I've met some great people, but there's still a sort of gap. Thank you for the encouragement! :)
Last month i tried living in my SUV for a week in west texas. It was not comfortable. But it felt so good to do. If I did it right im sure i could do this.
"I LOVE YA" - You are LIVING the life we (MEN) need! You did not reach the 2 acer leavel - mentally - but you prove that the level of thinking has to be at lease 10 time higher or we as Men will fail to understand what our goal is.
Thanks for the support. It took a bit and a few other adventures, but I'm back on the property now with more of a "I'm ready for it" mentality. When I first came out here and did this it was almost an "accident." An impulsive endeavour.
Nice vid Dude. I just found you your channel. I get it. I liked your "turning on a light switch is magnificent" line. I live in the far East valley of Phoenix now on my own small farm, with running water and electricity - Ha. I owned some property in Crown King, over 7000 feet, though had to sell it 5 years ago. Recently Crown King has been calling me back up the hill. I hope you're doing well and are enjoying AZ Spring time.
Hahaha, thanks. I've returned to the property and have been managing it a lot better than at first. Also just leaving during summer has been working pretty well.
Need money to do that. I did the same and we built our house off grid in west Texas and we are happy there. Need a mini split, a lot of solar and lithium batteries
Derek, I had not rung the bell on your channel so RU-vid has not been recommending your videos to me until it decided to today! I now have notifications turned on. 4:34 You are wearing a tank top so that I can see your pretty incredible artwork on your arms! Have you ever done a video about how you came up with you own unique style and what meanings they hold to you? I really do watch van building, van life channels, sailing channels as well as hundreds more things like Electric vehicles and on and on...
I really appreciate comments like yours. I do think I need to follow up specifically on the content of this video; I made this video right in the middle of some pretty vulnerable moments, and while it's 100% accurate for how I was feeling at the time, I've also learned a bit more how to embrace the whole off grid thing. I've also learned when it makes sense to take a break from it, etc. So I hope it didn't discourage you from giving it a shot, more just give you another perspective for what it's like. :)
@@derekmctavish Actually you made me think more carefully about the transition. To develop a plan and have some knowledge of what I need to do to ensure that progression happens to minimize frustration. You remind me of me in some situations that I have approached w/ youthful exuberance! 😂
@@aswadmalik1740 I think that's a very wise idea. I think trying to identify your "required luxuries" and making sure your prioritize them is hugely important. For me, getting an on-demand hot shower ended up being something I should have done immediately. Many people would have chosen things like a larger space, solar, etc. But a shower for me makes everything else more tolerable. Also just getting out for a few days, taking a little break... It helps. A lot. In any case, good luck, and I'd love to hear updates if you pursue this route. :)
Strangely satisfying to listen to this guy. Quirky, but I like it! I'm pretty sure you have heard of Bob Wells? He can help alot with questions. Being an off-grid nomad is actually perfect right now considering the state of the world. 😮 Carry on.
how do you put up with the negative comments? and you are so kind to even give them the time of day and respond...and in a kind manner. I'd just delete/block them. PEOPLE....If ya don't like the content, no one is forcing you to watch it....move along little donkies....ahhahaha - great video! you are keeping it REAL!
Thanks for noticing that. It's easy to write replies to kind and supportive comments, but the negative ones take some effort. For the most part, I figure something about what they're saying is a truth for them, and it's not my place to invalidate it -- and more so it was strong enough for them that they needed to say it out loud. That's all cool. At that point it has nothing to do with me or my videos. :)
No water on site and land difficult to grow a garden put you at a disadvantage. All that said you learned from this and that made the experience worthwhile.
Oh yeah. Don't get me wrong, the desert is beautiful. With the off-grid stuff+the desert+summertime though sometimes those ingredients stack up to be a bit heavy.
Life of doing things old school.. cold turkey.. almost never works. See people move to Baja and Anza Borrego area and they are used to access, unlimited everything.." I will just run to the store".. and they seldom realize that they are not going to the store for anything in particular, instead to be around other people..The deserts of California Arizona, Nevada,New Mexico and Texas filled with abandoned everything.. people think they can just go Gilligan's Island and it seldom works.. have friends that went on propane or grocery runs in town and they stay gone longer and longer.. just a suggestion it's probably better just to leave a note encouraging whoever breaks into your shed and trailer to not trash it.. locking anything up in the desert is just a recipe for heartbreak.. don't leave anything you want..
If you don't know what you're in for... yeah, it's difficult. That's what happened here. Upon returning to the property, I was a bit more prepared and have managed to maintain a decent balance. And I've been fortunate to have neighbours that do a great job keeping an eye out for me when I'm gone.
I here that..13 yrs in this rain forest, man am I ready to find the busiest place with the most people and noise on the planet..can't wait . Finish this project almost there.
Bro saved me from buying 2 acres of land from in a desert, I would most likely react the same way since I used to live in a tiny mobile home, made music until I felt claustrophobic.
Unless you *really* know what you're getting into and are very OK with it, I'd say desert off grid is a bad choice. Being stuck inside during the summers is a surefire way to feel claustrophobic.
you remind me of me. similar things. i stopped the buying of "junk" land though. saving up for a real snappy home base. Might be New Mexico might be central Nevada.
Yeah, this was my first time buying land. Now I have a better idea of what I'd be looking for in the future. But hey, it was super cheap! Better to sketch on cheap paper than on an expensive canvas. :)
Everybody who wants to go to this should watch this, I feel you bro I feel you, I would love to have a mobile living place but I also love people and big cities and stuff so it’s the endless Conundrum
I appreciate that. I've found that this works a lot better if I make a point to leave and go travel, see friends, visit cities. Makes it a lot easier to appreciate the quiet.
The one thing you'll never hear RU-vid Van Lifer say is. I just punked you. I actually live in a luxury condo downtown... Where I sleep eat cook and edit the van life videos I make when I actually drive my van to places where I pretend to live. Yeah . They just don't tell ya that.
I’m happy to hear it was right for you! This video was two years ago, and since then I’ve managed to find more enjoyment and value in this project. You’ve done off-grid for 35 years?
@@derekmctavish By the way, loved the video, always loved the desert. My brother bought 20 acres Az., about 10 years ago, and I think he's regretting it. Mostly because the water issue, has to drive half a day for 500 gallons. But he loves the high desert, a bit cooler in the summer. Did you keep the land, I hope? Myself, I bought Sierra wilderness, which is now surrounded with flatlanders who don't appreciate what they have. Aside from winters, it's far cooler in the summer at least.🙂 I was torn between Nevada desert and Alaska, but found 10 acres with two creeks and about 30 springs for $28.000, even then it was half the price of land up and down the coast to Alaska, so I jumped on it impulsively, and glad I did. I'm in no way a religious man, but I asked God to direct me, and my life has always been a blessed one because I listened. Whatever you do, don't give up on your dreams and the land. Ya never know, you just might need it to fall back on if SHTF. By the way, I'm glad I retired in my early 40s, because now I'm dying of bone cancer, about a year left, so by the grace of God, I was able to live the life of an early settler. Life's short, live it your way! 👍
Wow. Thank you for sharing that -- all of it. It seems like you've made a point to love the life you're living, and that's really beautiful and inspiring. I'm sorry to hear you have bone cancer. But again thank you for sharing everything -- from all the comments I've gotten on these videos, yours and your positivity are going to stick with me. I have indeed kept the land. And I've returned to it, then left to travel, then returned, etc. 10 acres with water running through it sounds lovely. What did you build there? Also... I'm suddenly very happy about my water haul situation, as it's 10 minutes down the street, not half a day away. Yikes.
@@derekmctavish Thanks Derek. You sound like you have a good head on your shoulders and anything you set your mind to or dream, is going to come to fruition. Even hard times have a purpose, so embrace them, they make you who you are. Glad to hear your water situation is good because, of all the things that stresses me the most is water, I literally have a PTSD thing that happens when something goes wrong, from freezing lines for weeks at a time, to pumps etc. (many issues pumping water in my early days really stresses me out) I could go on for pages, but I won't waste your time. I built my own home all by myself, took years to complete, sometimes one board at a time, money was short. (Truly funny story there too) And still not really done, but again, another story. I own the forum these are posted on, it's a running thread where my wife and I post the trail cam videos from the property, so I linked a ways in because Flickr was messing up earlier, but the links still works, it wasn't until I discovered Rumble that we were able to load full vids. Anyway, if you're interested, here's the link. I subscribed to your channel, hoping to see an update on your land. Good luck, but I don't think you'll need it, you have a bright future ahead. Best wishes, Tom/Solar. conservativepoliticalforum.com/the-living-room/video-from-the-trail-camera/75/ Almost forgot, I've been posting my off grid story because my biz partner said it was important to people trying to decide if this is the lifestyle for them. I don't know if I'll post much more considering the toll it takes on me physically. Anyway, it's here for anyone interested. conservativepoliticalforum.com/solar-s-30-years-of-off-grid-living/
As frustrating as these last few years have been on the property at times, yeah, a lot has come of it. I've thought quite a bit about, if I could go back, would I not do it? Naw, I think what's come out of this has been really valuable. Maybe I would have picked a different location, but nowhere is perfect. I hear ya -- certain small things can be really triggering, things that most people would just shrug off. The sound of a generators running out of gas is it for me... Thanks again for sharing your experiences. I've got your links open in a tab to browse through this evening. I'll see what I can do about an update about the property video. :)
It takes a real man to admit when he is wrong... I'm glad to see that see that you are not fool enough to stay in a situation that was a mistake born out of a fad that wasn't working for you.
It’s definitely available, but from everything I’ve heard from people around, it’s a pretty expensive endeavor. Considering that water haul is pretty easy and infrequent, it’s not a priority. Electricity/solar/etc takes first place right now.
Looks like you're in Pahrump, NV? I was just tramping the desert out there yesterday looking for 1/2-1 acre to do exactly the same thing. I found out that the planning commission is cracking down on allowing people to put anything they want on their own land. They want a house there even though there's no electricity, water, sewer available. I think you can use a shed as long as it's used for clean up of the land, like tools, etc. Prices are outrageous now, $5,000-10,000 for 1/2 acre. (April 2023) Even a tiny home has to be a minimum of 700 square feet.
I like the idea, but I think I'd be miserable after a few weeks. Like how I liked the idea of working from home until I had to do it during the pandemic and realized how lonely it could be
Never buy land in the desert until you have stayed in the desert for at least 8 months this will give you enough time figure out if you can do it or not
hey you own it, keep everything in context,your safe haven is there waiting for youafter you live in city for a while you go nuts again and long to be at your simple little homestead balance is the key! some of this some of that....jb
Living in the desert, one should look at the Bedouin and the Tuareg Tribes. So if you have a dust storm, do what they do. Cover yourself and keep your mouth closed. Build, adapting their principles and garden by reclaiming the desert with prudent water capture and utilization. Marocco and Spain had some excellent methods of water conservation due to the Moor influence. Ancient Rome had some very good ideas.
Your advice is solid for like, existing. However keeping my mouth close for a video would be less than ideal. So a diet of a little sand is not entirely unreasonable. 😉 definitely a lot of interesting stuff I could do out here in terms of living/working with the environment. Let’s see how it goes. :)
Thanks bro I am thinking of moving out there. If you like living out there slowly build yourself a basic home. 1300square feet will give you enough room to move around and cook. praise
Love the compulsive brave! Yeah, personally I don't get the dessert off grid thing. Too hot, dry and isolated. Also dealing with water delivery and a gas generators sucks. I've been slowly building my Off grid home base in central Florida where most summer nights it gets down to a bearable 75F which is much cooler than coastal cities here. Standing on my property it's always lush and green, if you stick a tube in the ground you can pull water from it. I get 5 bars of cellular reception for my data plan. I can't see or hear humans or houses, yet it's 1000 feet from pavement and 3 miles from a Walmart, Home Depot, and Planet fitness. 100 miles from either coast and large urban centers I love to van life the weekend at. It's okay to some times take a break and get a hotel - like when there is a hurricane or 100 year flooding event! As I slow cook my site plan I keep realizing I don't want enclosed dwellings, just shaded outdoor living, working and storage spaces.. If it does not travel with me I chain it down, but since the property is pretty much secure and on a dead end blind corner street and you can't even see what's going on inside my property from the gate I've had no theft issues. IDK, maybe it's that my gate is decorated with bullet casings. The only way to even know I'm there is using satellite maps. My version of off grid.. sleeping in my van with only a fan, cooking outside using an air fryer , taking a cold rain water shower and napping under the trees.. but also some days taking a 1 hour hot shower at Planet Fitness followed by a 2 hour lunch at a restaurant with Wi-Fi and cold AC to get through the worst part of the summer day and then get back for the best part of the day. Ironically, IMO the nicest summer weather in Florida is when it's cloudy with light rain. The winter is straight-up paradise here with occasional 40F night.
That’s exactly what I want to do I can get 36 acres for super cheep for 28.900 Sell everything that I don’t want to bring and live cheep until we die but my wife isn’t Ready yet so now we wait but I really think I should just buy the property now before it’s gone what do you think ? I can sell two of my river lots here and have the cash I need to buy it right out decisions, decisions
Your story is very similiar to living on a boat ( utilities , fresh water , things breaking , food ) . It's been said living on a small boat is like being in prison except you can drown !
That's a understatement. I spent almost 5 years sailing the Caribbean and South America. The times when there were days with no wind. I would just float with nothing to do, would drive me crazy. I would still never trade that time of my life for anything though. To be honest I still miss those days.
It's an interesting experience to struggle so hard in the moment but then look back and miss it, eh? That sounds like an amazing adventure you did. Have you shared anything about it anywhere online?
@@derekmctavish Not really, other than some discussions on some sailing and Caribbean blogs. I'm more of a private person. I don't care for social media, other than watching RU-vid for entertainment or learning something new.
Totally get that. Despite making these videos (which really started as just a way to have some fun and keep friends updated on things) I tend to be the same way. Lot of stuff I don't even have many pictures from. Living the adventure, not documenting it. :)
I'm in western Arizona, just outside of Kingman. I do have to admit, it's not exactly ugly out here. ;) And especially over the last couple weeks there's been a decent amount of snow; seeing the regular desert scenery covered in a layer of white confusing cold stuff has been really impressive.
Yeah, you need to invite a few people to share and enjoy your dream. Work together on a main living area compound. Go underground if you can, earth bag home etc. Done right it can be a wonderful retreat area.
The constant dust and dirt and heat get old for sure. I like people too so I recreate in the mountains up high. Trailer camping is great except emptying the black tank.
I'm sure we could exchange countless horror stories about emptying blackwater tanks. Composting toilets -- even the more simple glorified bag-in-a-bucket kind are way easier to deal with.
How much is the land going for and where is it located at? I have to move from Ohio to the desert. It cold in this older house. I am seeking some land and two acreas is plenty. Let me know Paul
Definitely gone up since I bought land and moved here, though by the standards of basically anywhere else it's still super cheap. I think if you're after cheap land that's very raw and off-grid (and will remain so for a while) you're looking at about $10k for 2 acres. Do a search on Zillow, like 50 mile radius of Kingman, AZ. If you're willing to be fairly remote, places like Seligman are still pretty affordable and the summers are far more tame due to elevation. Otherwise you're either gonna spend a decent chunk during the summer on gas for a generator or on solar+batteries+etc for air conditioning. Feel free to find me on IG and shoot me a DM. :)
I have a 125 what solar pannel with the stuff to run it to two marine batterys. I just don't have the money for the land right now. Am 200 away from from 8 grand. Thanks for the location and I will try to ss if I can get me some land. Was hopeing I could buy one out. I will have to get storage and water and solars going too. Airzonia might not be to compost freindly for the toliets. I like Airzonia too. Stayed a hot summer in Tuscon Airzonia one time. People from California brought their businesses from to Phoniex, Airzona and then the land and rent rates when right up. I would like to go into the ground some and let the bottom of the cabin be cold at 50 degrees. About four feet about ground or so then the roof with heavey insulation and vents. Zillow has my house appraixed way too high. Yet this is what they do. I pay taxes in Ohio for 650 dollars of land and 1025.00 house. Zillow is trying to say that I am into the 20's or 30's. If they have cash I will sell it to them. Ha Ha Ha Cannot selll it to noone its in a doubble probate and it takes some typeing money and court appearances to get the deed was bougth on land contract and both parties passed on. I paid the land contract off years ago. @@derekmctavish
Actually, I am quite lucky that my parents live 20 minutes away. Most of my friends are still ehh, let's say at least 1,000 miles away if not quite a bit more.
Yes and no? I've (finally) been posting some more videos -- the first of which covers a bit of what I've been up to over the last while as well as the current project I'm working on. That being said, I still have to figure out how to make a detailed followup to this specific video. It'll happen, but in the meanwhile... go check out the other stuff. ;) btw thanks for asking. 😀
i walked away from one of my attempts but learned you must install the whole system- full solar array- very little need for generator- if filled in teh evening generator would run all night- or you can add another fuel tank to it, water line break- it happens even in apartments. dust- gravel or mix cement into the soil. howver it still sucks, teh isolation sucks. i finally got my place, and im in a trailer in tenn, with water, electric, gas fiber opttic internet and no restrictions. but the locals suck if you aint frum round here they take issue... so over two years there is no one to talk to. Unless i go to thier pagan chuches.
Man, I’m really hearing everything you’re saying. If I had put solar in from the start things would have been different. But it was always like “I’m not gonna invest because I won’t be here that much longer.” 4 years later… yeah. And yes, the isolation, the lack of like-minded and/or welcoming community is probably the most difficult. Have you found some sort of connection where you’re at?
