Becoming a Nomad: Why More People Are Hitting the Road

Have you ever dreamed of leaving everything behind and hitting the open road? What if you could make a living while traveling across the country?

In her book Nomadland, Jessica Bruder explores the growing trend of becoming a nomad in modern America. She delves into the lives of people who've embraced a mobile lifestyle, working temporary jobs while living in RVs, vans, and other vehicles.

Keep reading to discover why more people are choosing this unconventional way of life and what it really means to be a modern-day nomad.

The Rise of Modern Nomads

Have you ever dreamed of packing up your life and hitting the road? You're not alone. More and more people are considering becoming a nomad, embracing a lifestyle of constant travel and temporary work. This growing trend, known as "workamping," has emerged as a response to broader economic shifts and a desire for freedom from traditional living arrangements.

Why People Are Becoming Nomads

The decision to adopt a nomadic lifestyle isn't always an easy one. For many, it's born out of necessity rather than choice. The decline of secure jobs, pension funds, and the promise of a comfortable retirement have left many older Americans struggling to make ends meet. Social Security often falls short, forcing people to seek alternative ways to supplement their income.

The 2008 financial crisis hit many hard, wiping out savings and leaving people like Bob, Patti, and Leonard "Scottie" Scott with few options but to embrace a life on the road. The collapse of the housing market and increased foreclosures only exacerbated the problem, making the traditional middle-class lifestyle unattainable for many.

But it's not all doom and gloom. For some, becoming a nomad offers a chance at freedom and adventure. People like Sameer have willingly adopted this lifestyle, rejecting the stigma associated with not having a permanent home and embracing the opportunities for exploration and personal growth.

The Workamping Lifestyle

So what exactly does life as a modern nomad look like? For many, it involves a combination of seasonal work and constant travel. Companies like Amazon have tapped into this growing workforce through programs like CamperForce, which recruits retirees and older workers for temporary positions during peak seasons.

Living in RVs, vans, and other mobile homes not only provides economic benefits but also the freedom to roam at will. These workers are often praised for their reliability and strong work ethic, willing to put in long hours even at an age typically associated with retirement.

Take Linda May, for example. She found work as a campground host, living in her beloved RV nicknamed the "Squeeze Inn." Despite the low pay and sometimes unpleasant tasks, Linda found satisfaction in her job and formed friendships with fellow nomads. She also worked at Amazon's distribution center, finding camaraderie among the wandering workers despite the repetitive and physically demanding nature of the work.

Building Communities on the Road

One of the most surprising aspects of nomadic life is the strong sense of community that develops among these wandering workers. Despite their transient lifestyle, nomads have created intricate support networks both online and in person.

Events like the Rubber Tramp Rendezvous in Quartzsite bring nomads from all walks of life together to share knowledge, skills, and build a strong sense of community. Started by Bob Wells, this gathering features workshops, shared meals, and opportunities for newcomers to learn from experienced nomads.

In the digital realm, websites like CheapRVLiving.com serve as hubs of information and connection. These platforms offer job listings, advice on stealth parking, and forums where nomads can share their experiences and find support from others living the same lifestyle.

Challenges of Nomadic Life

While the nomadic lifestyle can offer freedom and adventure, it's not without its challenges. One of the biggest issues facing older nomads is the lack of healthcare and benefits. The physically demanding nature of many temporary jobs can take a toll on aging bodies, and without comprehensive health coverage, injuries and health issues can quickly become major problems.

Linda's experience with a fractured rib highlights the vulnerability of these workers. Despite her injury, the need for financial security often forces nomads to continue working through pain and discomfort.

Another significant challenge is the lack of financial security. Many older nomads find themselves without adequate savings or retirement plans to fall back on. People like Don Wheeler and Linda May continue working well past traditional retirement age to manage debts and cover basic living expenses.

Planning for the Future

As nomads age, they often find it increasingly difficult to transition out of their mobile lifestyle. The physical demands of jobs like those in Amazon's distribution centers can become too much for older workers, forcing them to accept less desirable positions or retire due to physical limitations.

The cost of senior care facilities and assisted living is often out of reach for many nomadic workers. This has led to creative solutions, like Bob's innovative conversion of school buses into homes. Others, like LaVonne Ellis and Linda May, are working towards building sustainable living spaces like Earthships, highlighting the challenges of securing stable, long-term housing.

Linda's dream of building an Earthship in Arizona represents a common aspiration among nomads: to create a sustainable, independent dwelling that can provide security for themselves and their families, free from conventional financial constraints.

Becoming a nomad isn't just about embracing a life of constant travel. It's about adapting to a changing economic landscape, finding new ways to build community, and redefining what it means to have a home. While challenges remain, particularly for aging nomads, the growth of this lifestyle shows no signs of slowing down. As more people seek alternatives to traditional living and working arrangements, the nomadic community continues to evolve and support its members in their pursuit of freedom and security on the open road.