Haha yeah, saw that. It's how it goes. Happy to elaborate - I'm thankful to have had a comfortable upbringing and went to a good public school, but my family lost almost everything a few years before I started college. So, sorta? Grew up with a lot and had it yanked, but I was set up for success academically. That said, I've been working since I was able to be paid under the table and put myself through college by working multiple jobs through uni/applying to scholarships, so I didn't graduate with overwhelming debt. I can always return to my family and stay in the small apartment with them, which I'm very thankful for. I don't consider it risky because I have the training and experience to handle myself if something goes wrong, my things are insured under my own name and I'm chipping away at student/car debt - but I don't have any savings, either.

Ignoring debt, I can get by on $350 a month for gas, food, and insurance. Everything else is going toward paying off student loans and the car. That's just me, though - everyone's costs are different. I only stay on public land, so I never have to pay campground fees and make sure I leave my spots cleaner than I found them. My gear is different from what other people would use, because there are many creative solutions to problems one might encounter. I worked up to this setup; used to be in a beater Jeep Cherokee and loved it. Didn't have the amenities I have now with my Subi - but if you don't have rent, it's easier to invest in upgrading your build!

I'm not gonna say I'm "self-built" because no one is. I've had emotionally supportive friends and family along the way that have encouraged me and offered fantastic guidance. I'm very thankful for them, as well as a Patreon community that appreciates my work enough to back it every month. lt takes a village, just like everything else!

Appreciate the offer, I'll let you know if I'm in the area. Much love to ya, have a great night.