Shopping for a minimalist is not easy. And boondockers definitely fall into that category. Sure, even while they get away from it all, they too want to enjoy their creature comforts. The things is that boondockers are very specific about what those comforts are. They only take what is essential. So, if you’re buying gifts for boondockers, they need to be things they can’t live without. (Yeah, no pressure.)
Since 2012, we have boondocked all over the North American continent in our tiny vintage camper trailer and have tested our off-grid system to its max. We’ve done it in every season. And we’ve done it in every type of environment — from the deserts to the mountains to the coast.
So, take our word for it when we tell you that these 10 gifts for boondockers are perfect for your favorite picky, minimalist camper.
A Robust Solar-Powered System
The Ultimate Long-Term Cash Saver
Where would we be without the energy we get from the sun? We roam nearly reservationless — camping in thousands of low-cost and free places, all completely off-grid. Our small and robust Renogy solar system powers our life and mobile business. So, we don’t have to rely on campground electrical outlets. This means that we can be more flexible, make fewer reservations, and boondock on public land. Giving the gift of solar also helps save money down the road. We have literally saved over $200,000 on camping fees since 2012. (You can also arrange a free solar consultation with us, as we are solar experts and offer free coaching services.) By giving solar power, you’re also giving one the best gifts for boondockers — the ability to live more with less.
12-Volt Chest Fridge
Extra Cold Food Storage — Without the Energy Drain
Most small RVs have a tiny built-in fridge. But these 12-volt chest fridges can expand your cold food storage space significantly without draining the house batteries — especially if you set it up via a DC to DC charger and dedicated battery in your tow vehicle. We absolutely love our ICECO 12-volt fridge. It just sips at the energy, and it can last up to 10 days on a single charge (100Ah LiFePO4 battery).
A Quality Foldable Grill
For Camp Chefs Big on Taste and Short on Space
Ever have a love affair with a piece of camping gear? When we saw the OTZI grill advertised online, we had to give it a try. Over the past decade, we have tried several other portable grills, all with varying degrees of frustration. Designed to pack away flat in a durable carrying case, and made of durable alloy, this innovative grill is perfect for those camp chefs who are big on taste but short on space! We make everything from pizza to paninis and brownies to burgers with this cool little wood (or charcoal) fired grill.
Better RV Levelers
It Just Might Be a Marriage Saver
See that red thing under our trailer’s tire? This easy to use method to level the camper side-to-side has (literally) saved our marriage! It’s so simple, quick, and robust. Anderson levelers should be standard issue with every RV ever sold. They’ve done their job in thousands of not-so-level camping areas and still look like we bought them last week. Simply drive up until you’re level and then chalk the wheel.
Upgraded Trailer Tongue Lock
Peace of Mind While Your Away
Leaving an RV parked at a boondocking area while you go adventuring can be a little unsettling, especially if there aren’t any close by neighbors. While there are no guarantees in life, locking the tongue of your trailer with a more robust trailer tongue lock is worth the peace of mind. Our Reese Towpower Coupler Lock has been very effective and is easy to install. Honestly, this is one of those gifts for boondockers that hardly anyone thinks of, but will be really appreciated.
5-Gallon Buckets + Lugaloo
A Little DIY Business Startup
These are helpful for all kinds of things, from collecting firewood to hauling water from a creek for washing or for filtering drinking water. Both are easily acquired from any hardware store. And if you need an easy off-grid toilet, they are compatible with the Luggable Loo seat cover/lid. We have a bucket dedicated to clean things (filtering water) and one dedicated to gross things (waste/trash). Add some bags, kitty litter, cedar mulch, whatever, and presto! An easy, cheap, no-fuss boondocking toilet that won’t fill up your black water tank!
Gravity Water Filter
On-Demand Fresh Water Replenishment
A quality water filter is a must! Filtering wild water allows boondockers to use local creek or lake water as drinking water without having to boil. You can stay out on public land longer, without having to leave and find a water fill-up. Our Sawyer water filter is small, easy to use and can be assembled in under a minute.
Shower Tent + Electric Shower Sprayer
Helping Conserve Your Water Supply
Being able to shower outside while boondocking allows you to use local creek and lake water then heat it up with the sun or on a propane stove. Doing this won’t drain your RV water tank, nor does it fill up your gray water tank. A good quality shower tent will last for years, and if you add an electric shower sprayer (with USB rechargeable pump) and a clean 5-gallon bucket to the mix, it’ll almost feel like home!
Outdoor Propane Stove
Kicking the Cooking Outside
Sometimes, it’s too hot to cook inside your RV. A small, lightweight propane stove can make it more pleasant and fun to cook outside. We’ve had a couple of different stoves over the years and have finally settled on a Primus Tupike. It’s built to last a lifetime rather than just a few camping seasons. It can be used with either the little green can or connected directly to an external propane tank.
12-Volt Air Compressor + Tire Repair Kit
Your Back-on-the-Road Device
When you are away from it all and get a flat tire, it can really put a damper on your plans. Having a handy 12-volt air compressor and a tire repair kit at the ready can have you back in business in no time. Also, if you lower your tire pressure to drive in the sand or soft off-road areas, a compressor is a must so that you can return your tires to their regular pressure when you hit the pavement again. Note: If you repair a tire on your own, it’s always good to have a professional look at it upon return to civilization.
*****
Even the most-dour minimalist will love any of these 10 gifts for boondockers. They will help keep your favorite boondockers happy, safe, and sound for many years to come — wherever they camp.
Leave a Reply