A friend of mine lives in his van full-time and does a lot of boondocking during the week. But what does boondocking mean? According to Wikipedia (yeah, I know), the term boondocks was introduced to the U.S. during the Philippines-American War. It derives from the Tagalog word “bundók“, which means “mountain”. Its more recent colloquialism refers to rural inland areas that were difficult to access, like the mountains.
Today, boondocking means camping in an isolated location, usually in your RV. Making your own private campsite is what is known as boondocking. It entails camping in remote locations without services such as electricity, water, or sewer connections. Boondocking is also known as wild camping or stealth camping.
Boondocking in an RV is a fun and rewarding experience. It lets you get away from it all while still having a comfortable place to sleep. Utilizing your car’s electrical systems and battery power effectively is critical. Follow along to find out more information and suggestions for finding the best vehicles and apps for boondocking.
More on Boondocking
Boondocking is excellent, especially for people who love adventure travels even though it can be challenging but also very rewarding. There are a lot of different vehicles that serve well as a base. You need to find the right car that works for you. A dependable gas-powered vehicle will work great, but you may also want to consider a small diesel van.
People choose to boondock because of various reasons. Some may decide that boondocking is budge-friendly. Or it is an excellent way to get some downtime and rest from all the traveling. While there is plenty of information out there, it is frustrating finding info on the process.
This article provides clarity.
What’s the Difference Between Boondocking and Camping?
Car camping is a more traditional kind of camping where you stay in one location. Typically, you have your own campsite and amenities such as toilets, showers, fire pits, and electricity.
However, boondocking is different. While you might be on the same campground as others, you will be off-grid and running your own power. The definition of boondocking varies depending on who you ask. Generally, it means running your electrical system via solar panels, hand cranks (old school) or propane generators.
The one notable distinction between boondocking and car camping is that car camping uses the electrical system at the campground and boondocking runs its own power system. With boondocking, you rely on your car’s battery system or an alternative power system. Often powered by Bluetti generators. That is where an excellent app comes in handy.
While some boondocking apps will help your car obtain power, they will not provide you with the information. You need a way to monitor your battery’s charge, wear, and system health.
Most tools will not only show off-grid information but also give you updates on battery levels and alerts when numbers are lower than expected. These tools are apps that work by sending wireless signals out over radio frequency signals. These wireless signals pass through walls and floors without obstructing them. The apps provide all the essentials required when camping, including finding campsites, water sources, and even extra storage.
Another difference between car camping and boondocking is the way to go about it. With car camping, you need to bring everything you need, find a spot, and set up camp. With boondocking, you drive to an area or park your car and leave it there.
What Are The Best Vehicles For Boondocking?
These are some of the best vehicles for your next trip.
Ford Ecoline
An excellent old station wagon-style vehicle often used for boondocking and camping trips. It offers much larger space than other station wagons on the market. That is why it is prevalent and common. The Ford Ecoline is perfect for camping and boondocking trips. They are convenient, safe, and comfortable vehicles.
Another thing that makes this vehicle very desirable is the price. It comes at a low cost, and it’s almost impossible to steal. Ford Ecoline is available in many variations, so you can choose the one you like.
Subaru Forester
It is another ideal vehicle you can try for boondocking. Unlike the Econoline, the Forester is a compact design and is more nimble. It is a safe, practical, and comfortable vehicle, and you can always buy it used or new.
The Forester has excellent gas mileage, safety ratings, and a cool look. Subaru Forester is a trendy choice for people who want to go camping and hiking. The characteristics of this vehicle and the price are what probably makes it popular.
Honda ridgeline
With Honda Ridgeline, you can have one of the most reliable and durable vehicles to use when boondocking.
The Ridgeline has a 4×4 drive system and takes some getting used to. Honda Ridgeline is available in many different colors for you to choose what your heart pleases.
Chevrolet Suburban
This vehicle is another perfect choice for fun on boondocking and daily use with a powerful pickup truck chassis. Chevy Suburban is popular for those who wish to cover long distances with their extended families. This vehicle uses gas engines but still has great mileage and fantastic acceleration. Making it an excellent choice for traveling through mountains. Also it is great at navigating tight gravel roads that may be difficult for other vehicles.
Chevy Suburban offers exceptional performance and reliability while being fuel-efficient, comfortable, and very reliable. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission system that requires less maintenance than other vehicles. Chevy Suburban has many safety features making it an excellent choice over other vehicles in its class.
What is the Best Boondocking App?
If you are looking for the ideal boondocking app, then Freecampsite.net is the app you are looking for. It is a perfect app for anyone who is camping without any electricity. This app provides all the necessary information about where you can find an excellent place for your next trip.
The Freecampsite.net app is entirely free, so everyone can use it without worrying about their communication and their safety while staying in the wild.
Freecampsite.net app does not require a data connection if you have a smartphone. You can use WiFi or 3G and keep your information on your smartphone without worrying about an internet connection.
Freecampsite App Features
- It does not require any personal information when using the app, so there is no need to register.
- You can access the app via WiFi, 3G, and even satellite data, allowing you to go wherever you want without worrying about internet coverage.
- It has all the necessary information about where there are good boondocking areas for your next trip. You can easily find an excellent place for your next trip without using google maps.
There are also other fantastic apps for boondocking, such as Campendium, FreeRoam, iOverlander, and Boondocking app. These great apps will help you find where to stay and communicate with other people staying around the same place.
Wrapping Up
Boondocking is an enjoyable alternative to staying in a hotel, but it can be challenging to find suitable locations.
If you want more, check out our Free Camping In The U.S. article here.
