It's been 6 years since I've filmed a Q&A video, so I figured I might as well make it a long one! Again, feel free to jump around in the video and watch as much or as little as you want. And let me know in the comments here if you have a question I didn't answer, and I'll try to answer it. Now let's get another 200,000! 😄 Thanks for watching! Tristan
I live high in the mountains of Northern New Mexico not that far from many of the places you visit, maybe a moderate day or two's ride from here at best. Every time that I say to myself "there is nowhere new left to explore out here in the American West", I just go watch another SUV RVing video and then put that new place on my bucket list. So much beautiful country out here in the vast American West. Thanks for sharing some of it with all of us. You do a mighty fine job of it. Your enthusiasm for getting out and just exploring an area off the beaten path is extremely contagious. It does wonders for the soul.
I so totally agree. I travel by myself, and on almost all the solo women van camping type groups, the biggest topic is safety. Almost all of them carry mass quantities of weapons and seem to me to be so fearful that I can’t understand why they’re out there in the first place. I’m going onto my fourth year of doing this, and have never had a single problem. On my last trip, I purchased motion detector lights because I thought I could use them outside my van at night to feel more protected in case someone approached my van. But every darned mouse or small critter that passed them, set them off -even just the wind blowing set them off, and I couldn’t sleep. And I never used them again. I am careful, and I do trust my gut, and if I feel weird about a place, I will leave. But mostly, I camp far far away from anyone else, and I make sure I’m not followed on my way to a camping site far far away from anyone else, and that’s it. I really appreciate how Tristan is so matter-of-fact about it, although at first I thought, well, he’s a man, he doesn’t need to worry about that stuff so much. But really, I don’t need to either. I have so much gratitude for Tristan, because his videos are the ones that got me started on these trips, and my life is immeasurably improved by having the time alone and just enjoying nature in all its beauty.
I always try to park where I can’t be seen…. Animals aren’t a concern…. Humans are! If I’ve done my job in picking a good spot I’ll hear them Before I see them. It’s amazing how much better you can hear without the sound of “civilization” encroaching on your every sense.
The world is actually more scary than I thought it was for younger women camping in remote areas. I just watched a RUclipsr video about her scary encounter. Obviously the three men were up to no good, and there were women in the comments who shared their scary stuff, kidnappings, murder of her daughter. Really no joke. Women need to take safety seriously. Definitely this should not be belittled. I think if you're a young woman on the road full time, the likelihood of you encountering bad men in remote areas is naturally higher, versus if you were just going camping for a month or two. Especially if you're a RUclipsr, you are going to be a target.
Tristan, you are not a boring person. You don't make click-bait videos but instead they are full of interesting content and always enjoyable. I started watching years ago, bought your SUV-RVing book and we've not missed a video since. Congratulations on over 200K subscribers, you certainly deserve them. 😀👍
Congrats on 200k! I'm shocked that you haven't hit 1M yet, though--I've been watching you for almost 5 years now, and your top quality videos merit a huge audience.
One of the reasons that I like your channel is that you show people that exploring & traveling the backroads is not scary or dangerous. As you can tell from the questions you get there is a lot of fear out there. You are setting a great example of why one should let go of the fear. Thank you for this public service.
Thanks, Tristan, for generously sharing so much of yourself - your real, undramatic, unadorned self here, especially the bits where you "admitted" to having seen no UFO's, not finding yourself in danger (much), wearing ordinary socks, shoes, etc. So refreshing. I've grown tired of RUclips because so many VanLife/RV videos are done with insincere affectation designed to create (fake) drama. Even though I'm getting too old to clamber to many of your destinations I will keep watching for the trustworthy info ...and host.👍
There's an audience for all of that stuff you mentioned, but it's definitely not me or you. My philosophy has always been to make the kinds of videos that I would want to watch, and I have no interest in any of that stuff! Thanks Paul.
We listened to this podcast-style driving across the Mojave Desert on our way home from seeing the eclipse. It gave us a lot to talk about on the rest of the drive! We've been mainly tent campers, but recently have been using our Forester as an expedition vehicle and your videos have been very inspiring. Thanks for sharing all of your insights and experience.
Please do more in Mexico! Lots of elderly Americans retire in Mexico, or think about doing it. Showing people what Mexico is like would be helpful and interesting, and would dispel the false idea some people have that it's all dangerous.
It's certainly has a reputation of being very corrupt and lawless. I'm sure it's not all drug cartels like sometimes portrayed in the media and has tons of good hearted, genuine people, so it's a shame how many view Mexico...nevertheless I feel like it would be naive to think that the realities of the "3 world countries" don't play into the decision making of these youtube travelers...
we lived in Mexico for 7 years and go back every year for several month. Love it! We just spent a month in Mexico City. It's amazingly (even for this old expat beautiful, clean and safe - three things we don't see in large U.S. cities.
@@SUVRVing I would not go down into Mexico unless it is the Baja area. My friend has his new Chevy Pickup stolen at gun point while going to see his family. He is a dual citizen. But if you go, make sure your suv looks "cheap"! Enjoy your videos.
Enjoyed your Q&A. I think the hardest question must have been about your favorite place. While you answered it right away, you've shared some amazing places. Thanks for continuing to make the videos!
Great for you! I love your videos. I am stuck in the midwest, disabled and broke so now I get to see your adventures. The petroglyphs are the best! Congrats on 200K! You so deserve it and more.❤❤
Thanks, Tristan for answering all those questions. You have a lot of patience. I'm 77 and you helped fill an afternoon for this injured old lady. Torn muscle, very painful. Stay safe, healthy and happy.
I’m a solo elderly woman car camper. I agree it’s not scary out there. Wonderful sights and people once you get out into nature. I love that Cassie is working with teens at church. I’d love to attend a meet & greet but until then enjoy your vids.
I'm a solo middle age woman camper too and have not had bad encounters, though i hear stories from other women travelers. I think there are a lot of factors involved, as to what is actually dangerous v what people perceive as dangerous. I'm not a fearful person, so I don't perceive too much as being scary. Happy camping to you!
I am surprised you do not use the tracking option on your Garmin. It relays your position to a website so your wife (or anyone you gave the info to) can follow your travels and send your last location to search and rescue in the event you are injured in a manner that prevents you from using the sos button. Many years ago I was a member of a search and rescue team in southern CA and knowing where to start a search was a great help. At age 72 I backpacked the John Muir trail from Mt Whitney to Yosemite valley and it was a great comfort to my son and daughter-in-law to watch my progress on a daily basis.
Honestly, I just don't want to deal with keeping the thing charged that much 🤷♂ I think a good medium is a nightly "Here's where I'm camped" message that my wife can see, plus I leave a detailed itinerary with her about where I'll be and what I'll be doing each day.
I miss the days when I didn't have a cell phone. I'd get off work and browse a couple of stores to find a gift for my wife or just clear my head. Now I get a phone call or text if I happen to be 5 minutes late.
When I saw that your video this morning was an hour and 40 minutes, I said "What???? I never watch videos that long!" But once I started it I couldn't stop (and even had to tell my wife to quit interrupting me a few times) and finished before I knew it. It was SOOO interesting - every section.
Congratulations! Thank you for answering all our questions. I just ow for my husband and me we look forward to your weekly posts! Love how mindful and caring you are with Cassie and Bowser. Enjoy your life! Congrats again!
Tristan, thanks for this video. Long time subscriber soon to be a member. Really enjoyed listening to your story. Lots of work answering all the questions. Fantastic work. Take care out there
Safety and encounters: I've heard many people talk about the "presence of something" at Chaco Canyon. I know you have been there and have probably heard similar accounts. I've camped and hiked there on ten occasions and have never felt anything approaching that. The only experience I've had there is a slight caution for mountain lions when hiking away from the crowd since elk are in the region. The hike was on the backside of the South Mesa Trail. That trail was, in fact, closed for awhile when an elk carcass was discovered that appeared to be a mountain lion kill. Love the channel Tristan, never, never miss an episode.
I greatly appreciate your videos. I finally moved out to the Southwest in my 50s (from the East Coast). I hike, mountain-bike, and xc ski in NM. I love the land and the adventure in the SW. I’m rooted to a traditional job (teaching), so, if I can’t get out, I’m tuning in to your channel. Keep doing what you’re doing. I wish you all the success-much deserved.
Thank Tristan for taking me to places I can't go to anymore. I am 74 years old and have very bad knees. One got fixed poorly and the other needs fixing. I really enjoy your enthusiasm and I wish you only good luck.
Hiking the places you do such as Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, ..are great areas. We are very careful with our hike selections in Southern California. Since constantly our cars have been broken in. No matter what kind of precautions we take. Sorry for the bad news but it is a bitter reality. It was not like that before.
Tristan thanks for your patience in letting us learn more about you and your plans. Helps me understand a little more about your focus and why you concentrate on certain landscapes and experiences. Good luck with your travels!
What you said about towns is what I always try to tell everyone. It's funny you mentioned Kingsland because I had a conversation with someone not too long ago and they said the most horrible town they've ever been to in America was Kingsland. I explained to them that there are countless thing to do in the area and you're close to some of the most beautiful nature you've ever seen. To them, it was a desolate wasteland. I use cities and towns as like a "hub" to explore the area. There's beauty in every nook and cranny in America. You just have to get out and look
Your choices of Grand Junction & Kingman are interesting & your reasons make sense. As I'm not a millionaire Sedona is out! At least I saw the total eclipse in upstate NY last Monday....awesome thing to experience!
Congratulations on 200K subscribers. You are my absolute favorite RUclips channel which I’ve mentioned in many comments. You have inspired me to get out there and go for it. Thank you for all of your adventures!
Re: The question about alternative SUVs to the Toyotas. I also wanted a Land Cruiser, and I've always been faithful to Toyotas, but, to be frugal, I got a second generation Honda Pilot, and absolutely love it! It's a big box that feels like a condo inside to sleep in, 20 miles to the gallon on the highway, and super reliable. Thank you Tristan for the inspiration.
Two good Salt of the Earth people, y'all remind me very much of the good folks I live around here in small town Texas. Love the channel, congratulations on 200k. Looking forward to what you have coming in the future.
I’ve never understood that phrase. Salt the ground and it kills everything. Salty is used to say being mean. How is salt of the earth a good thing. I guess it used to be more valuable so it’s like saying gold.
@@BeefNEggs057 lol, I hear ya. I've grown up hearing that from the older generations. I think it's more a reference to taste. For example, bland food made better with salt. Although probably not healthier 😂
At 1:04:55. You make a great point about the wide variety of places to visit. I lived several years in the AZ White Mountains. A friend and I often opined that we could literally spend the rest of our lives exploring within a 50 mile radius of our home town. There is SO MUCH to see and do in the west. It is hard to imagine running out of adventure spots, or shining too much light on any specific location. Those who have not experienced the west first-hand cannot even imagine the amazing scale it offers.
Thank you for all the years of sharing! Yes, years ago we explored 4 Corners area, Idaho, Nevada etc. I love guessing where you are. Keep on being safe! Greetings to your family!
Congrats! 🎉. Your channel is in my top 3 favorite channels of all time on YT. I watch your videos every Saturday morning & look forward to them! Thank you for allowing me to see so many places I can’t get to myself! ❤
Dude, how you don't have more subscribers is beyond me. Love your videos!!! I am going to be doing this myself one day. All around the United States and Canada. Debating on if it's safe enough to do in Mexico, because I sure would like to go down there. There is a lot of history to see in Mexico. Anyways, keep up the videos. Love from Casper, Wyoming!
Thank you for your insights into so many of the what's, how's and why's of your process, and your life on the trails and off. This was, as always enjoyable because of your refreshing honesty. Looking forward to many more seasons of your adventures, to the trips with Cassie too and thanks for taking us along.
Thanks so much for taking the time to answer so many questions from a wide variety of topics including my questions. Your channel is one of my favorites. I found it when I was recovering from COVID in 2021 and easily became addicted watching as many as I could find. I have been planning to purchase your SUVRVing book for a while and now that you're working on an updated version, I'll probably buy 2.0 to have a hard copy of your latest. I also can't wait for your gear channel. I've watched other channels review gear, but I've become fond of the Osprey daypacks and have been inspired by your previous reviews of equipment. I plan to be around when you reach 400,000 subs. I can't wait to view your coast to coast trip. I hope it's a great experience.
Congrats on reaching 200,000! Your channel is great, and deserves to reach as many people as possible. I am a retiree who hopes to do some camping and hiking in Mexico in the next few years, so I for one would love to see you make some videos there. I appreciate that you are considerate of your audience, but it is disappointing that so many would be made uncomfortable or turned off just by viewing a video of such a fascinating place. But whatever adventures you decide to go on, I am grateful for the entertaining and informative content you provide for us all.
Congratulations and many many thanks for all the great vids! We love the lesser known spots to which you introduce us. Sometimes it feels like we're chasing around the SW after you - albeit months or years after you. We especially love your scrambling, route-finding adventures with few or no other people! To quote Charles Bukowski's main character in the play Bar Fly: "It's not that I don't like people... I just feel better when they're not around!" I hope you found your sunglasses!
Good job, Tristan, and I don't just mean on this Q/A video. Everything you do, is done well. If you're ever your own biggest critic, as I often was in my life, remember to grade yourself on a curve, versus the general population instead of versus perfection. I'd bet you're 99th percentile at most of the things you care about. It's even OK if you're bottom or second quartile at a thing or two, though I doubt that you are.
Congratulations! I started watching your channel because I was considering camping out of my SUV. I kept watching for the adventure. I find you very easy to listen to. You keep up a good pace in your delivery. You are matter-of-fact and informative. And your joy of exploration comes through. Thanks for all your travels and hard work. Come see our ditch here in western North Carolina (the Linville Gorge). I think you'd enjoy it.
Hi Tristan, first off I enjoy watching your videos. I think I started watching at the 30 K mark. I see where Cassie gets her beauty, her Mother is beautiful! Congratulations on your 200 subscribers!
We enjoy traveling and are in our 70s. We didn't have children for 13 years so we got to have lots of adventures. Love Kindle reading. Good job answering questions. Some were a little personal.
Toyotas are popular and expensive for a reason. They're just unstoppable and can handle abuse. Good deals are available if you think outside the box. My son just bought a 2005 Sequoia with 160000 miles for 6000 dollars and aside from some cosmetics, is in great shape. It is just a Tundra suv and will go anywhere the truck will. Also, if you take out the 3rd row seats, you have 6 ft. of floor and can stiil use the back seats. New Toyotas are no more expensive than other makes, and have more value if you shop around and aren't picky.
To strengthen your knees, ride your bike or better for your schedule, put it on an indoor trainer. While home, you can always find an hour or two to ride. Watch TV, following training bike rides on the net, etc. to make it less boring!
Great video. And totally agree with you that all this land should be available to everyone who can take it all its wonders ! Sharing this information is a good thing !
Congratulations on 200,000 subscribers Tristan. I have been watching you for a very long time now. And will continue to watch as long as you put videos out. So happy and proud of you. Your loyal Toyota FJ cruiser pal from Michigan. ❤️
Tristan...congrats! Very happy for you. Love the candor and honesty. Would love to hear the meeting Cassie at a church in Cambodia story in a future video. Perhaps on a trip where Cassie is with you????
Two comments after watching... 1- As far as airing down tires, I have been 4-wheeling for 50 years and where Tristan drives the only benefit he would get would be a smoother ride. The roads he drives arent difficult enough and he isnt on them enough to warrant the time/effort of airing down/up each time. 2- As far as Versus-ty70d's question, I have been exploring the western US, the same as Tristan does, and him highlighting lesser known places is good primarily for the fact that he is drawing people away from the busy places, and as Tristan hinted to, there are so many lesser known places that he features that another visitor or two in each of those places wont make any difference in them, but it would help the busy places be less busy for those who want to go visit them.
Congratulations on 200K! Got my notebook out and in August of 2018 I wrote down 11K for SUV RVing. Super fortunate to have been part of your tremendous success almost from the start on RUclips. Many Thanks Tristan.
I appreciate your answering all these questions. I especially like your undramatic, matter-of-fact answers to the fear/safety questions. I similarly have not had negative encounters, for the most part. Except an armed a$$ barged into our campsite one afternoon, without being invited, arrogantly unaware that he is the type of person that is threatening to others, especially women.
Finalizing some plans for my trip in June and finally getting to this video Lol Thanks for getting to my question and for all the advice, Tristan! You have been a huge help! 🤙🏼
Tristan, your videos are the BEST 😊 Enjoy all of them & have definitely learned a lot about our country from them. Looking forward to the cross country trip😮 Hope you found your glasses as a girl from a family of optometrists would say. 👍🏻🙋🏼♀️
When you and Cassie visit Chicago, you may want to consider visiting Indiana Dunes State Park and Dunes National Park (which is within a few miles of the State Park). Both are within a hour and 10 of Chicago. Keep up the great work! Your “shower making” video is one of my favorites!
Nice video! Got to get more questions i had about camping answered. Thats nice your wife is part Filipino! I am too! Will be tuning in to catch up on your past videos. Thanks for sharing your passion of camping and helping others navigate thru their challenges.
Great video so far I’m at 15:23! Thank you & congratulations on 200k subscribers! The more subscribers you have the quicker it will be to the next milestone!! Thank you again!
Keep it going the linguistics really paying off I like your pace and style just love listening to all your unique info in the background really truly a wealth of knowledge
Hey there! I saw you in Bandelier last week. My wife and I were checking out the cool dwellings and passed you on the trail. We travel in a lifted Sienna van.
Great video. You are much more patient than I am. People are soooo.... nosy! I always enjoy each video and cheer you on. More Saturday Adventures!!! I'm looking forward to the next video.
Congratulations on the 200,000 subscriber milestone. It's a rare thing for me not to be here at 9:00 a.m. Saturday morning to see the new video. I've been to a few of the places you've featured in your videos. Oftentimes though, I'll see a video of a place I've been near and wish I'd known about some things you feature in your video. I'm also using your videos for information on places to go when I get on the road full time.
I hope nothing "unlucky" ever happens to you...many times when you are climbing the more crazy ones I have watched you do, I think "if that foothold or handhold gives this time, if his toe or hands slip this time...he is a goner" I hope it never happens...I hope the "boring" never becomes "exciting" for the wrong reasons. You're my favorite YT channel and of the dozens of subs I am pretty faithful as far as watching to support the channel...yout 2 channels and one other creators vids are the only channels that I watch every week (except for the vehicle/rig reviews...I sometimes miss those) and I hope you are able to keep it up. I do really hope someday that you branch out and do some of our great, amazing and beautiful eastern US adventures.
Tristan - I've been watching this video off and on all day, and I'm only 17 minutes in... I keep stopping, shopping, learning and going to the items you reference - either web sites or resources on Amazon. This is the ultimate newbie guide to SUVRVing!!!! Thanks so much! Heading out to Anza Borrego State Park next week and I'm just soaking up your tips and tricks! I've been watching your channel for years and I even have your book, but this is just an awesome resource! 👍
Another great car is a Toyota Sequoia. Extremely reliable, roomier, comes 4wd, great car for camping and cheaper than other toyota suvs such as landcruiser but still expensive.
I think so many folks ask about be scared, etc because they just haven’t developed a nature sense of adventure. I’m over 70 years old nowadays, and I don’t do a lot of the things I used to do, simply because I’m not in the kind of shape I used to be in, back when I was in my 30’s, etc. I grew up mostly in Texas and spent most of my adult life in the military and I’ve lived way too many days, weeks, months in adventurous environs. I had times that I might get a little spooked by a situation; BUT, I went into the wilderness, the mountains, etc to have that kind of experience. I believe too many people have grown up with overly protective parents that scare their children to never try something new and adventurous. I’ve had many friends who had parents that gave them free rein to do what comes naturally to them. One in particular, was a friend’s two year son was climbing up the fireplace bricks to see what was up on the mantle. Instead of freaking out and yelling at the boy and saying things like ‘you’re gonna break your neck’, etc…my friend went over to where his son was climbing and kinda guided him up to the mantle and encouraged the boy with positivity. Most of these kind of things are innate in our natural mental and physical make-ups. I always told my kids and my friends and comrades, that being worried or afraid was a choice, but if they chose the worrier direction, they probably would lead boring lives…and probably wouldn’t have any scars or stories to share regarding their lives… “Ol’ Scooter” in East Texas…
Thanks for the video Tristan ! I appreciate your no/low-drama approach to exploring. Based on the limited clues I'm guessing your spring trip will be to take a dual sport motorcycle across the country via dirt and backroads on The TransAmerica Trail. This is something I have considered myself. BTW, I have an around the neck phone holder like yours. My wife got it when it was closeout priced at $6 at a truck stop, She thought it was an auxiliary speaker. I started using it so I could see Google Maps better while I'm driving. I use mine a lot too.
It's been 6 years since I've filmed a Q&A video, so I figured I might as well make it a long one! Again, feel free to jump around in the video and watch as much or as little as you want. And let me know in the comments here if you have a question I didn't answer, and I'll try to answer it.
Now let's get another 200,000! 😄
Thanks for watching!
Tristan
Thanks again for your work, and the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, your mother in-law is also very beautiful!😊
This was surprisingly enjoyable to watch. I hope you enjoyed making it.
🍾🍻🎉🎉🎉
Congratulations on 200,000! 🎉😊
Thank you Tristan.
You are NOT boring! You are calm and intelligent and great at explaining what you are experiencing.
Thank you 😁
I live high in the mountains of Northern New Mexico not that far from many of the places you visit, maybe a moderate day or two's ride from here at best. Every time that I say to myself "there is nowhere new left to explore out here in the American West", I just go watch another SUV RVing video and then put that new place on my bucket list.
So much beautiful country out here in the vast American West. Thanks for sharing some of it with all of us. You do a mighty fine job of it. Your enthusiasm for getting out and just exploring an area off the beaten path is extremely contagious. It does wonders for the soul.
That's really nice of you to say! Thanks for watching and for the great comment.
“The world is not as scarey as most people think it is”…. Very true! It’s amazing to me how much people fear remote areas. I prefer it.
I so totally agree. I travel by myself, and on almost all the solo women van camping type groups, the biggest topic is safety. Almost all of them carry mass quantities of weapons and seem to me to be so fearful that I can’t understand why they’re out there in the first place. I’m going onto my fourth year of doing this, and have never had a single problem.
On my last trip, I purchased motion detector lights because I thought I could use them outside my van at night to feel more protected in case someone approached my van. But every darned mouse or small critter that passed them, set them off -even just the wind blowing set them off, and I couldn’t sleep. And I never used them again. I am careful, and I do trust my gut, and if I feel weird about a place, I will leave. But mostly, I camp far far away from anyone else, and I make sure I’m not followed on my way to a camping site far far away from anyone else, and that’s it.
I really appreciate how Tristan is so matter-of-fact about it, although at first I thought, well, he’s a man, he doesn’t need to worry about that stuff so much. But really, I don’t need to either.
I have so much gratitude for Tristan, because his videos are the ones that got me started on these trips, and my life is immeasurably improved by having the time alone and just enjoying nature in all its beauty.
I agree with you, and " paranoia will destroy you".
I always try to park where I can’t be seen…. Animals aren’t a concern…. Humans are!
If I’ve done my job in picking a good spot I’ll hear them
Before I see them. It’s amazing how much better you can hear without the sound of “civilization” encroaching on your every sense.
The world is actually more scary than I thought it was for younger women camping in remote areas. I just watched a RUclipsr video about her scary encounter. Obviously the three men were up to no good, and there were women in the comments who shared their scary stuff, kidnappings, murder of her daughter. Really no joke. Women need to take safety seriously. Definitely this should not be belittled. I think if you're a young woman on the road full time, the likelihood of you encountering bad men in remote areas is naturally higher, versus if you were just going camping for a month or two. Especially if you're a RUclipsr, you are going to be a target.
same here….I just want to be in nature with no people distraction taking away from the experience
Tristan, you are not a boring person. You don't make click-bait videos but instead they are full of interesting content and always enjoyable. I started watching years ago, bought your SUV-RVing book and we've not missed a video since. Congratulations on over 200K subscribers, you certainly deserve them. 😀👍
Thanks for the kind words!
Congrats on 200k! I'm shocked that you haven't hit 1M yet, though--I've been watching you for almost 5 years now, and your top quality videos merit a huge audience.
I appreciate that! 😁
No click bait for his videos, no scantily clad girlfriend in his thumbnails, other ways some RUclipsrs get more views.
One of the reasons that I like your channel is that you show people that exploring & traveling the backroads is not scary or dangerous. As you can tell from the questions you get there is a lot of fear out there. You are setting a great example of why one should let go of the fear. Thank you for this public service.
Rather live free than stay home being afraid. Fear is the greatest enemy of joy.
Thanks, Tristan, for generously sharing so much of yourself - your real, undramatic, unadorned self here, especially the bits where you "admitted" to having seen no UFO's, not finding yourself in danger (much), wearing ordinary socks, shoes, etc. So refreshing. I've grown tired of RUclips because so many VanLife/RV videos are done with insincere affectation designed to create (fake) drama. Even though I'm getting too old to clamber to many of your destinations I will keep watching for the trustworthy info ...and host.👍
Thank you Tristan for all the great info about your trips and your life. I really enjoy all your videos!! Great hiking and love the scenery!! ❤
There's an audience for all of that stuff you mentioned, but it's definitely not me or you. My philosophy has always been to make the kinds of videos that I would want to watch, and I have no interest in any of that stuff! Thanks Paul.
We listened to this podcast-style driving across the Mojave Desert on our way home from seeing the eclipse. It gave us a lot to talk about on the rest of the drive! We've been mainly tent campers, but recently have been using our Forester as an expedition vehicle and your videos have been very inspiring. Thanks for sharing all of your insights and experience.
Awesome, I appreciate you guys watching/listening! 😁
Please do more in Mexico! Lots of elderly Americans retire in Mexico, or think about doing it. Showing people what Mexico is like would be helpful and interesting, and would dispel the false idea some people have that it's all dangerous.
It's certainly has a reputation of being very corrupt and lawless. I'm sure it's not all drug cartels like sometimes portrayed in the media and has tons of good hearted, genuine people, so it's a shame how many view Mexico...nevertheless I feel like it would be naive to think that the realities of the "3 world countries" don't play into the decision making of these youtube travelers...
we lived in Mexico for 7 years and go back every year for several month. Love it! We just spent a month in Mexico City. It's amazingly (even for this old expat beautiful, clean and safe - three things we don't see in large U.S. cities.
I appreciate the input. I wouldn't mind doing one or two Mexico videos a year. Thanks for watching!
@@SUVRVing I would not go down into Mexico unless it is the Baja area. My friend has his new Chevy Pickup stolen at gun point while going to see his family. He is a dual citizen. But if you go, make sure your suv looks "cheap"! Enjoy your videos.
Enjoyed your Q&A. I think the hardest question must have been about your favorite place. While you answered it right away, you've shared some amazing places. Thanks for continuing to make the videos!
Great for you! I love your videos. I am stuck in the midwest, disabled and broke so now I get to see your adventures. The petroglyphs are the best! Congrats on 200K! You so deserve it and more.❤❤
Thanks!
Amen to what you said about locals and their beautiful places. They are OUR beautiful places; some just don't have to drive to enjoy them.
Congratulations !!! You were born for this !😊
Thanks 😁
Thanks, Tristan for answering all those questions. You have a lot of patience.
I'm 77 and you helped fill an afternoon for this injured old lady. Torn muscle, very painful.
Stay safe, healthy and happy.
Thank you!
I’m a solo elderly woman car camper. I agree it’s not scary out there. Wonderful sights and people once you get out into nature. I love that Cassie is working with teens at church. I’d love to attend a meet & greet but until then enjoy your vids.
I'm a solo middle age woman camper too and have not had bad encounters, though i hear stories from other women travelers. I think there are a lot of factors involved, as to what is actually dangerous v what people perceive as dangerous. I'm not a fearful person, so I don't perceive too much as being scary. Happy camping to you!
It's great to hear your point of view on the subject. Thanks for sharing, Susan!
Your channel has been my favorite since the first one I watched. Thank you for all the hours of enjoyment Tristan.
Thank you for all the hours of watching!
I am surprised you do not use the tracking option on your Garmin. It relays your position to a website so your wife (or anyone you gave the info to) can follow your travels and send your last location to search and rescue in the event you are injured in a manner that prevents you from using the sos button. Many years ago I was a member of a search and rescue team in southern CA and knowing where to start a search was a great help. At age 72 I backpacked the John Muir trail from Mt Whitney to Yosemite valley and it was a great comfort to my son and daughter-in-law to watch my progress on a daily basis.
Honestly, I just don't want to deal with keeping the thing charged that much 🤷♂ I think a good medium is a nightly "Here's where I'm camped" message that my wife can see, plus I leave a detailed itinerary with her about where I'll be and what I'll be doing each day.
I miss the days when I didn't have a cell phone. I'd get off work and browse a couple of stores to find a gift for my wife or just clear my head. Now I get a phone call or text if I happen to be 5 minutes late.
When I saw that your video this morning was an hour and 40 minutes, I said "What???? I never watch videos that long!" But once I started it I couldn't stop (and even had to tell my wife to quit interrupting me a few times) and finished before I knew it. It was SOOO interesting - every section.
Thanks Michael, I'm glad you liked it! And I wouldn't have blamed you if you'd stopped partway through, either 😁
Congratulations! Thank you for answering all our questions. I just ow for my husband and me we look forward to your weekly posts! Love how mindful and caring you are with Cassie and Bowser. Enjoy your life! Congrats again!
Cassie is pure good, and Bowser is just innocent sweetness. They're easy to love 😁
Tristan, thanks for this video. Long time subscriber soon to be a member. Really enjoyed listening to your story. Lots of work answering all the questions. Fantastic work. Take care out there
Safety and encounters: I've heard many people talk about the "presence of something" at Chaco Canyon. I know you have been there and have probably heard similar accounts. I've camped and hiked there on ten occasions and have never felt anything approaching that. The only experience I've had there is a slight caution for mountain lions when hiking away from the crowd since elk are in the region. The hike was on the backside of the South Mesa Trail. That trail was, in fact, closed for awhile when an elk carcass was discovered that appeared to be a mountain lion kill. Love the channel Tristan, never, never miss an episode.
I greatly appreciate your videos. I finally moved out to the Southwest in my 50s (from the East Coast). I hike, mountain-bike, and xc ski in NM. I love the land and the adventure in the SW. I’m rooted to a traditional job (teaching), so, if I can’t get out, I’m tuning in to your channel. Keep doing what you’re doing. I wish you all the success-much deserved.
Thanks! And at least you've got summers off to explore (depending on what kind of teacher you are, I suppose). I appreciate you watching!
I agree with your description of your channel as a adventure channel over a hiking channel. I enjoy your adventures very much.
Thank you!
Thank Tristan for taking me to places I can't go to anymore. I am 74 years old and have very bad knees. One got fixed poorly and the other needs fixing. I really enjoy your enthusiasm and I wish you only good luck.
Hiking the places you do such as Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, ..are great areas. We are very careful with our hike selections in Southern California. Since constantly our cars have been broken in. No matter what kind of precautions we take. Sorry for the bad news but it is a bitter reality. It was not like that before.
I have to tell you, I sure have enjoyed not only your rv adventures but also your fishing adventures. So a big thank you!
And thank you for watching!
Hanging bag type Damp Rid is helpful when car camping. I hang it near my head at night and notice a difference in condensation.
Good tip.
Damp Rid works well the hanging bag and the kind that sits on the floor (of my basement laundry room).❤
Good to know. Thanks for sharing!
Tristan thanks for your patience in letting us learn more about you and your plans. Helps me understand a little more about your focus and why you concentrate on certain landscapes and experiences. Good luck with your travels!
Thanks!
Congrats on 200k!! Well deserved Tristan!!! 👍
Thanks!
Congrats on passing 200,000 subscribers. 😎👍
Also, what a treat to have a 1:40 minute video this Saturday morning!
As a new englander I love Rhode Island. Beautiful beaches everywhere!
I've heard good stuff about Rhode Island. Haven't heard much of anything about Delaware 😄
What you said about towns is what I always try to tell everyone. It's funny you mentioned Kingsland because I had a conversation with someone not too long ago and they said the most horrible town they've ever been to in America was Kingsland. I explained to them that there are countless thing to do in the area and you're close to some of the most beautiful nature you've ever seen. To them, it was a desolate wasteland. I use cities and towns as like a "hub" to explore the area. There's beauty in every nook and cranny in America. You just have to get out and look
Well said!
Your choices of Grand Junction & Kingman are interesting & your reasons make sense. As I'm not a millionaire Sedona is out! At least I saw the total eclipse in upstate NY last Monday....awesome thing to experience!
Congratulations on 200K subscribers. You are my absolute favorite RUclips channel which I’ve mentioned in many comments. You have inspired me to get out there and go for it. Thank you for all of your adventures!
Thank you for the support! 😁
That was ALOT of questions!. You're a good sport Tristan 👏. Thanks for being so honest with us. Much appreciated!! Looking forward to more.
Thanks Cheryl!
5* knowledge, Great Information , Thanks
Re: The question about alternative SUVs to the Toyotas. I also wanted a Land Cruiser, and I've always been faithful to Toyotas, but, to be frugal, I got a second generation Honda Pilot, and absolutely love it! It's a big box that feels like a condo inside to sleep in, 20 miles to the gallon on the highway, and super reliable. Thank you Tristan for the inspiration.
I've never been inside one or driven one, but they seem like great vehicles. Good suggestion!
I keep waiting for you to run into skinwalkers in the Uintas. 😆😆
This was very interesting, not your typical video. We enjoy your channel and getting to know you and Cassie through your videos.
Two good Salt of the Earth people, y'all remind me very much of the good folks I live around here in small town Texas. Love the channel, congratulations on 200k. Looking forward to what you have coming in the future.
I’ve never understood that phrase. Salt the ground and it kills everything. Salty is used to say being mean.
How is salt of the earth a good thing. I guess it used to be more valuable so it’s like saying gold.
@@BeefNEggs057 lol, I hear ya. I've grown up hearing that from the older generations. I think it's more a reference to taste. For example, bland food made better with salt. Although probably not healthier 😂
Thank you! 😁
At 1:04:55. You make a great point about the wide variety of places to visit. I lived several years in the AZ White Mountains. A friend and I often opined that we could literally spend the rest of our lives exploring within a 50 mile radius of our home town. There is SO MUCH to see and do in the west. It is hard to imagine running out of adventure spots, or shining too much light on any specific location. Those who have not experienced the west first-hand cannot even imagine the amazing scale it offers.
I wish that I had explored the West when I was 60yo. Twenty years later is too late for me, so I enjoy watching your adventures. Thank you.❤
Well said! Thanks for watching.
At exactly 11 minutes a dark cloud passed over Tristan as he said he doesn't feel fear when climbing. No better way to go than doing what you Love.
Really enjoy your fishing and Suvrving, thanks for sharing.😅
Thank you for all the years of sharing! Yes, years ago we explored 4 Corners area, Idaho, Nevada etc. I love guessing where you are. Keep on being safe! Greetings to your family!
Congrats! 🎉. Your channel is in my top 3 favorite channels of all time on YT. I watch your videos every Saturday morning & look forward to them! Thank you for allowing me to see so many places I can’t get to myself! ❤
Thank you for the support!
Dude, how you don't have more subscribers is beyond me. Love your videos!!! I am going to be doing this myself one day. All around the United States and Canada. Debating on if it's safe enough to do in Mexico, because I sure would like to go down there. There is a lot of history to see in Mexico. Anyways, keep up the videos. Love from Casper, Wyoming!
Dont go to Mexico if you dont speek Castillion or similar Spanish.
Thank you for your insights into so many of the what's, how's and why's of your process, and your life on the trails and off. This was, as always enjoyable because of your refreshing honesty. Looking forward to many more seasons of your adventures, to the trips with Cassie too and thanks for taking us along.
"It's not dangerous". Simple as that. More people should realize this.
Thanks so much for taking the time to answer so many questions from a wide variety of topics including my questions. Your channel is one of my favorites. I found it when I was recovering from COVID in 2021 and easily became addicted watching as many as I could find. I have been planning to purchase your SUVRVing book for a while and now that you're working on an updated version, I'll probably buy 2.0 to have a hard copy of your latest. I also can't wait for your gear channel. I've watched other channels review gear, but I've become fond of the Osprey daypacks and have been inspired by your previous reviews of equipment. I plan to be around when you reach 400,000 subs. I can't wait to view your coast to coast trip. I hope it's a great experience.
I have 3 or 4 Osprey packs at this point. Great bags! It's hard for me to go back to other brands. Thanks for watching!
Congrats on reaching 200,000! Your channel is great, and deserves to reach as many people as possible. I am a retiree who hopes to do some camping and hiking in Mexico in the next few years, so I for one would love to see you make some videos there. I appreciate that you are considerate of your audience, but it is disappointing that so many would be made uncomfortable or turned off just by viewing a video of such a fascinating place. But whatever adventures you decide to go on, I am grateful for the entertaining and informative content you provide for us all.
SO INFORMATIVE! THANK YOU for doing these videos and sharing these amazing places!
Congratulations and many many thanks for all the great vids! We love the lesser known spots to which you introduce us. Sometimes it feels like we're chasing around the SW after you - albeit months or years after you. We especially love your scrambling, route-finding adventures with few or no other people! To quote Charles Bukowski's main character in the play Bar Fly: "It's not that I don't like people... I just feel better when they're not around!" I hope you found your sunglasses!
Thank you for sharing ✌️💖🤟✨️🧚♂️
Good job, Tristan, and I don't just mean on this Q/A video. Everything you do, is done well. If you're ever your own biggest critic, as I often was in my life, remember to grade yourself on a curve, versus the general population instead of versus perfection. I'd bet you're 99th percentile at most of the things you care about. It's even OK if you're bottom or second quartile at a thing or two, though I doubt that you are.
Congratulations! I started watching your channel because I was considering camping out of my SUV. I kept watching for the adventure. I find you very easy to listen to. You keep up a good pace in your delivery. You are matter-of-fact and informative. And your joy of exploration comes through. Thanks for all your travels and hard work. Come see our ditch here in western North Carolina (the Linville Gorge). I think you'd enjoy it.
Canada and USA blogs are interesting to me.❤
Great video, Tristan. I'm glad you've had so much success with your channel, and that it has enabled you to buy your property. 🙂
Thank you! I know you've been a long-time viewer and commenter, and I want you to know I appreciate it 😁
@@SUVRVing You're so welcome. I love your channel and am so grateful to have come across it. 😊👍
Congratulations on 200,000 subscribers! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🌟
Hi Tristan, first off I enjoy watching your videos. I think I started watching at the 30 K mark. I see where Cassie gets her beauty, her Mother is beautiful! Congratulations on your 200 subscribers!
Thank you for all you do!
We enjoy traveling and are in our 70s. We didn't have children for 13 years so we got to have lots of adventures. Love Kindle reading. Good job answering questions. Some were a little personal.
Toyotas are popular and expensive for a reason. They're just unstoppable and can handle abuse. Good deals are available if you think outside the box. My son just bought a 2005 Sequoia with 160000 miles for 6000 dollars and aside from some cosmetics, is in great shape. It is just a Tundra suv and will go anywhere the truck will. Also, if you take out the 3rd row seats, you have 6 ft. of floor and can stiil use the back seats. New Toyotas are no more expensive than other makes, and have more value if you shop around and aren't picky.
Congrats Tristan on the 200K mark! 🎉
Always look forward to Saturday mornings to see your videos...without a doubt the best on RUclips!
Congrats on 200K. It is a pleasure watching your travels. I learn so much. Thanks
Thank you for sharing this Q&A video. Congratulations on reaching these milestones. Look forward to watching every week. Take care!
To strengthen your knees, ride your bike or better for your schedule, put it on an indoor trainer. While home, you can always find an hour or two to ride. Watch TV, following training bike rides on the net, etc. to make it less boring!
Great video. And totally agree with you that all this land should be available to everyone who can take it all its wonders ! Sharing this information is a good thing !
Congratulations on 200,000 subscribers Tristan. I have been watching you for a very long time now. And will continue to watch as long as you put videos out. So happy and proud of you. Your loyal Toyota FJ cruiser pal from Michigan. ❤️
I know the viewers who have been around for a long time, and I know that you're one of them. Thank you for the support through the years!
Tristan...congrats! Very happy for you. Love the candor and honesty. Would love to hear the meeting Cassie at a church in Cambodia story in a future video. Perhaps on a trip where Cassie is with you????
Two comments after watching...
1- As far as airing down tires, I have been 4-wheeling for 50 years and where Tristan drives the only benefit he would get would be a smoother ride. The roads he drives arent difficult enough and he isnt on them enough to warrant the time/effort of airing down/up each time.
2- As far as Versus-ty70d's question, I have been exploring the western US, the same as Tristan does, and him highlighting lesser known places is good primarily for the fact that he is drawing people away from the busy places, and as Tristan hinted to, there are so many lesser known places that he features that another visitor or two in each of those places wont make any difference in them, but it would help the busy places be less busy for those who want to go visit them.
Yay! Congratulations, Tristan! Well-deserved…..you make such great videos. You also introduced me to Tenkara fishing!
Congratulations on 200K! Got my notebook out and in August of 2018 I wrote down 11K for SUV RVing. Super fortunate to have been part of your tremendous success almost from the start on RUclips. Many Thanks Tristan.
I appreciate your answering all these questions.
I especially like your undramatic, matter-of-fact answers to the fear/safety questions. I similarly have not had negative encounters, for the most part. Except an armed a$$ barged into our campsite one afternoon, without being invited, arrogantly unaware that he is the type of person that is threatening to others, especially women.
Finalizing some plans for my trip in June and finally getting to this video Lol Thanks for getting to my question and for all the advice, Tristan! You have been a huge help! 🤙🏼
200,000!!!!!!!!!!!! The locusts one was one of my favorites too. Garnett and Hood were two others I can think of.
Tristan, your videos are the BEST 😊 Enjoy all of them & have definitely learned a lot about our country from them. Looking forward to the cross country trip😮 Hope you found your glasses as a girl from a family of optometrists would say. 👍🏻🙋🏼♀️
I did find the glasses 😁
When you and Cassie visit Chicago, you may want to consider visiting Indiana Dunes State Park and Dunes National Park (which is within a few miles of the State Park). Both are within a hour and 10 of Chicago. Keep up the great work! Your “shower making” video is one of my favorites!
Congrats on 200,000! Thank you so sharing great info on your trips and your life!! Really enjoy the hikes and scenery!! Cant wait to watch more!! ❤
Congratulations!💚💚💚💚
Nice video! Got to get more questions i had about camping answered. Thats nice your wife is part Filipino! I am too! Will be tuning in to catch up on your past videos. Thanks for sharing your passion of camping and helping others navigate thru their challenges.
Great video so far I’m at 15:23! Thank you & congratulations on 200k subscribers! The more subscribers you have the quicker it will be to the next milestone!! Thank you again!
Excellent. Thank you!
Keep it going the linguistics really paying off I like your pace and style just love listening to all your unique info in the background really truly a wealth of knowledge
Tristan has definitely come a long way from the first time I saw one of his videos a few years ago.
Watched from start to finish and thank you for giving us a bit of an insight on you and your business. Many happy trails! :-)
Kingman is a good city. And your correct lots of places to explore. if your near look me up. ill ;take you to some places to explore.
Hey there! I saw you in Bandelier last week. My wife and I were checking out the cool dwellings and passed you on the trail. We travel in a lifted Sienna van.
Great video. You are much more patient than I am. People are soooo.... nosy! I always enjoy each video and cheer you on. More Saturday Adventures!!! I'm looking forward to the next video.
Some people are nosy and some people just care. You feel like a friend even though it is all one sided. Thanks for being open with us.
I get where people are coming from. I want to know more about the RUclipsrs I follow, too!
This was great. Lots of things I had wondered about. Thank you for answering all the questions.
Fascinating video... thanks for sharing and answering the questions.
Congratulations on the 200,000 subscriber milestone. It's a rare thing for me not to be here at 9:00 a.m. Saturday morning to see the new video.
I've been to a few of the places you've featured in your videos. Oftentimes though, I'll see a video of a place I've been near and wish I'd known about some things you feature in your video.
I'm also using your videos for information on places to go when I get on the road full time.
I hope nothing "unlucky" ever happens to you...many times when you are climbing the more crazy ones I have watched you do, I think "if that foothold or handhold gives this time, if his toe or hands slip this time...he is a goner"
I hope it never happens...I hope the "boring" never becomes "exciting" for the wrong reasons.
You're my favorite YT channel and of the dozens of subs I am pretty faithful as far as watching to support the channel...yout 2 channels and one other creators vids are the only channels that I watch every week (except for the vehicle/rig reviews...I sometimes miss those) and I hope you are able to keep it up.
I do really hope someday that you branch out and do some of our great, amazing and beautiful eastern US adventures.
Tristan - I've been watching this video off and on all day, and I'm only 17 minutes in... I keep stopping, shopping, learning and going to the items you reference - either web sites or resources on Amazon. This is the ultimate newbie guide to SUVRVing!!!! Thanks so much! Heading out to Anza Borrego State Park next week and I'm just soaking up your tips and tricks! I've been watching your channel for years and I even have your book, but this is just an awesome resource! 👍
That's great to hear! I appreciate you watching 😁
Great video. Interesting with all the questions and history of your life.
Enjoyed this immensely. Thank you.(always like seeing Cassie)
Another great car is a Toyota Sequoia. Extremely reliable, roomier, comes 4wd, great car for camping and cheaper than other toyota suvs such as landcruiser but still expensive.
I think so many folks ask about be scared, etc because they just haven’t developed a nature sense of adventure. I’m over 70 years old nowadays, and I don’t do a lot of the things I used to do, simply because I’m not in the kind of shape I used to be in, back when I was in my 30’s, etc. I grew up mostly in Texas and spent most of my adult life in the military and I’ve lived way too many days, weeks, months in adventurous environs. I had times that I might get a little spooked by a situation; BUT, I went into the wilderness, the mountains, etc to have that kind of experience. I believe too many people have grown up with overly protective parents that scare their children to never try something new and adventurous. I’ve had many friends who had parents that gave them free rein to do what comes naturally to them. One in particular, was a friend’s two year son was climbing up the fireplace bricks to see what was up on the mantle. Instead of freaking out and yelling at the boy and saying things like ‘you’re gonna break your neck’, etc…my friend went over to where his son was climbing and kinda guided him up to the mantle and encouraged the boy with positivity. Most of these kind of things are innate in our natural mental and physical make-ups. I always told my kids and my friends and comrades, that being worried or afraid was a choice, but if they chose the worrier direction, they probably would lead boring lives…and probably wouldn’t have any scars or stories to share regarding their lives…
“Ol’ Scooter” in East Texas…
Thanks for the video Tristan ! I appreciate your no/low-drama approach to exploring. Based on the limited clues I'm guessing your spring trip will be to take a dual sport motorcycle across the country via dirt and backroads on The TransAmerica Trail. This is something I have considered myself. BTW, I have an around the neck phone holder like yours. My wife got it when it was closeout priced at $6 at a truck stop, She thought it was an auxiliary speaker. I started using it so I could see Google Maps better while I'm driving. I use mine a lot too.