I done goofed, snowbird circuit edition
One thing I like about writing is is forces me to think through my assumptions and re-examine previous conclusions.
I was writing a comment on reddit and linked to a post from last year.
I wrote “reduce my expenses” and stopped. I corrected that to “reduce my travel expenses” and stopped. I left it that way but now I’m questioning my previous assumptions.
actual reduction in travel expenses on the larger loop
I looked at the El Paso -> Quartzsite mileage again and estimated costs. The there-and-back cost would be just under $200 in fuel. That’s really not much for an annual expense.
non-monetary benefits of boondocking in AZ
Solitude, which I value highly. Slightly warmer than ELP on average: 66/40 vs 58/33 Fahrenheit. Saguaros.
expenses while stealth camping
If all things were otherwise equal then the reduced snowbirding loop would be slightly less expensive. But all things are not equal.
I can stay under my $500/mo budget quite easily while boondocking. On good months it’s down around $425. But one of my (many) human failings is that I struggle to keep the $500 limit while stealth camping in cities. Because fresh groceries and other treats are highly available I tend to spend ~$625 in cities.
non-monetary benefits of stealth camping in ELP.
Daily showers at PF. Water harvest at PF. Daily access to wifi at PF and at at municipal wifi points. Access to fresh foods and discounts. Slightly better insolation in ELP, a little more than +8%. Active dog parks for Muffin. I really like El Paso.
where do we stand?
If I were to leave El Paso after my last appointment I’d have about 3 months in the Yuma-Quartzsite-Havasu area. If I’d spend an extra $375 stealth camping then the $200 in fuel starts to look better. I’m not including wear-and-tear on the vehicle here.
But I think the costs will be close enough that I could choose based on other criteria. Will ponder. I have until mid-December to figure it out. Even if I do head west I’ll still have a month in ELP before departure.