Why do I choose this lifestyle?
Simple - Minimum energy consumption and footprint. Efficiency is the name of the game.
I use about 90 Ah (12v) approx of my battery every day which results in a total of about 32 kWh of solar energy per month.
When I am not traveling, I use less than 2 full tanks of diesel per month which results in a total energy conversion of 1600 kWh approx (40 gallons).
I use about 120 gallons of water in 30 days (not calculating showers).
2025 - New solar setup
A new 12v air-conditioner was installed for Saya. That initiated a long awaited overhaul of the solar setup.
So now, we have;
600 ah battery + (previous 300ah for emergency)
600w fixed solar panels on the roof (with tilt mount)
400w portable solar panels as an add-on
20-40 ah dc-dc alternator charger
This complete installation was done by yours truly. It took me 3 weeks since I was waiting on parts and was technically as always on a vacation.
I have now acquired a new skill set.
2021 - Now
Mercedes Sprinter
This is my current Rig/Home:
Fullsize Bed
Shower/toilet
Office
Full Kitchen (Induction stove, Fridge, Blender, Toaster, Instant Pot)
60 gals fresh water/7 gallons hot water/20 gals grey tank
400w solar/300 AH battery/3000W inverter
Garage
Diesel heater
2017-2021 Ford F150
This was the first rig that I used to travel all over the West Coast of the US.
It had a simple single bed at the back, a small pull-out kitchen, and a fridge.
