Have you ever dreamed of hitting the road solo in a camper van—but thought it was too late to start? In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott sits down with van lifer Charlie Grace to talk about what van life over 50 really looks like: the independence, the unexpected costs, the safety concerns, and yes, the joy of living on your own terms.

Whether you’re an experienced camper or just van-curious, this conversation is packed with real-world advice for women ready to explore van life after 50.

Charlie didn’t grow up camping—but after raising kids and juggling a traditional life, she was ready for something different. After trying both a 24′ and a 30′ Class C RV, a Dodge Ram ProMaster van, she finally transitioned into a 2025 Winnebago EKKO. It gave her the perfect blend of freedom, comfort, and dog-friendly flexibility.

Today, she’s 54 and spends 8–9 months a year traveling across the country—often solo, always with her pup.

Charlie admits her biggest fear wasn’t driving or camping—it was boondocking. Learning to live off-grid was a challenge, but it gave her the independence she craved. She now has enough water and power reserves to go off-grid for up to 14 days.

Her biggest tip? Don’t try to learn everything at once. Take it one skill at a time and build confidence through practice.

Van life means embracing a minimalist lifestyle. For Charlie, that meant fewer clothes, collapsible gear, and smart storage solutions. One rule she swears by: everything you bring should do at least two jobs.

She also emphasized choosing a van layout that matches your mobility and lifestyle. Think about whether you want a permanent bed, where the bathroom is located, and how often you’ll be cooking or entertaining.

Safety is a top concern for many women considering van life over 50. Charlie’s advice?

Think van life is cheaper than traditional living? Sometimes—but Charlie warns new van lifers to budget an extra $2,000–$7,000 for unexpected add-ons and upgrades. Plus, factor in maintenance (especially if you own a diesel like a Sprinter van), campground fees, and insurance.

Still, many women offset these costs with remote work or seasonal jobs. Charlie recommends platforms like Workamper News or exploring digital nomad gigs online.

Van life can be isolating—unless you intentionally seek out connection. Charlie encourages women to attend van life expos, Girl Camper Camporees, or join online communities to meet like-minded travelers.

And as she says: “If not now, then when?”

Whether you’re interested in full-time van life or simply weekend adventures, Charlie Grace proves that age is no barrier to freedom. With the right gear, support system, and mindset, women over 50 can thrive on the road.

Huge Thank You to Go RVing for sponsoring this episode! Need more tips and advice to get started RVing? Check out Go RVing.

If you’ve been curious about how e-bikes fit into your RV or camping lifestyle, this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast is for you. Host Lesa McDermott chats with Cameron Hahn and Hannah Woolery from Buzz Bikes, a trusted brand backed by Huffy’s 130-year cycling legacy. Whether you’re running to the camp store, exploring trails, or hauling firewood, e-bikes are quickly becoming a favorite among campers—and Girl Campers are leading the way.

E-bikes bring convenience, fun, and freedom to your outdoor adventures. With pedal assist and throttle options, you can ride farther without wearing yourself out. Models like the foldable Centris are compact enough to fit in RVs or car trunks, but tough enough to handle gravel and dirt trails.

Buzz Bikes stand out from the crowd thanks to:

They’re also legal on most trails and roads when you choose Class 1 or 2 models (max 20 mph). Just check your local regulations—and always wear a helmet!

Girl Campers are already putting e-bikes to good use—zipping around campgrounds, commuting to festivals, or riding scenic trails in national parks. One Buzz ambassador even used her bike to safely skirt a wild buffalo encounter!

Buzz Bikes use UL 2849-certified lithium batteries and recommend:

Bonus: They even fit in a plastic bin for mess-free hauling.

Want to try one yourself? Buzz Bikes often attends events and RV shows (including Girl Camper gatherings!) so you can test ride before you buy. Or use promo code GIRLCAMPER20 at BuzzBicycles.com for 20% off any e-bike or accessory.

🎉 Win a Free Buzz E-Bike!
Now through June 1, 2025 enter to win your own Buzz e-bike on GirlCamper.com. Click the “Giveaway” tab on the homepage to get started!

🎧 Listen to the full podcast to hear more insider tips, stories, and how-tos.
📺 Watch the episode on YouTube to see the bikes in action!

There’s no wrong way to camp like a girl—but having an e-bike sure makes it more fun.

Want to learn more about E-Bikes? Check out our article “All About E-Bikes” or our previous podcast episode, “All About E-Bikes“.

Special thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Go RVing. Check them out for tips on buying your first RV.

Affiliate Disclosure:
Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, Girl Camper may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely use and love. Thank you for supporting Girl Camper!

When Hurricane Helene struck in the fall of 2024, few expected the western North Carolina mountain town of Spruce Pine to be in its path. But when the storm moved inland, it caused catastrophic flooding, washing away roads, damaging homes, and flooding every storefront on Main Street. Months later, this resilient community is still working hard to recover—and Girl Campers are stepping up to help. We are hosting an event where you can volunteer while camping to help rebuild part of North Carolina.

This August 8–11, join Girl Camper and Alabama guide Shari Sullivan for a special volunteer camping event at Spacious Skies Bear Den Campground in Spruce Pine, North Carolina. The event, titled “Girl Campers Lend a Hand,” combines camping, community service, and sisterhood in one meaningful weekend.

Volunteers will help with recovery efforts such as:

Work will be assigned based on ability—from physical outdoor tasks to light indoor organization—so everyone can participate meaningfully.

Spacious Skies Bear Den Campground—now fully restored—is offering Girl Campers a 10% discount on campsites and cabins. The event includes:

Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or cabin, this is a family-friendly trip. Bring a teen who needs service hours or a partner who wants to help. Everyone is welcome, but space is limited.

Let’s show Spruce Pine that Girl Campers don’t just go places—we give back. 👉 Click here to register and reserve your campsite today.
📩 Questions? Email Shari at [email protected]

Special thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Progressive Insurance.

Getting a good night’s sleep can be a challenge—especially when you’re camping or RVing. On a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott sat down with Hailey Sousa from RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding to talk all things sleep wellness and how to sleep better in an RV.

Whether you’re drifting off under the stars or parked beside a noisy neighbor, quality sleep impacts everything from your mood to your energy level. Hailey reminds us that sleep isn’t just about quantity—it’s about creating the right environment for true rest.

Let’s face it: most RV mattresses are just not built for comfort. Hailey explains that RV manufacturers expect owners to upgrade their beds, which is why many stock mattresses are thin and unsupportive. Replacing them with a high-quality mattress can improve your sleep dramatically.

From soft to firm, Hailey shares how choosing a mattress based on your sleep position, height, and weight makes a big difference. Side sleepers often need softer support, while stomach sleepers benefit from something firmer. And if you’re a hot sleeper, look for a mattress with built-in cooling technology.

Cooling sheets, bamboo fabrics, and breathable mattress toppers can make a huge difference in temperature regulation. Hailey also recommends portable fans, sound machines, and red-light alarms to help cue your body that it’s time to rest.

If your RV layout doesn’t allow for a full mattress swap, don’t worry—toppers can still improve your sleep. Hailey cautions, however, that they’re a temporary fix if your mattress is sagging or worn out. She also suggests using a mattress encasement to protect against moisture and wear.

Noise and light can wreak havoc on your sleep. Hailey recommends blackout window covers, white noise machines, or even sleep masks and earplugs to create a quiet, dark space. Recreating your at-home sleep setup on the road can go a long way.

Girl Camper listeners get 30% off and free shipping on any product from RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding with the code girlcamper (one word). And now through May 14, 2025, enter to win a free mattress of your choice—any size or style—on the Girl Camper facebook page!

To hear the full conversation packed with tips, check out the episode on the Girl Camper Podcast. Thanks again to Hailey Sousa for sharing her sleep expertise—and to RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding for helping us all catch better ZZZs on the road.

And remember: There’s no wrong way to camp like a girl—but sleeping well makes every adventure better.

Big Thank You to this episode sponsor: Progressive Insurance! Check them out for all your insurance needs.

Want more tips on how to get a good night sleep? Check out our Sleep Hygiene 101 article.

The Art of Campfire Cooking with Rome Pie Irons

If you love campfire cooking pie irons as much as we do, you’re going to love our latest Girl Camper Podcast episode! Co-host Lesa McDermott had the chance to sit down with Michael O’Russo, president of Rome Pie Irons, and chat about one of the most iconic brands in campfire cooking — a name that’s been around since the 1960s and is still going strong today.

Rome Pie Irons has a rich history rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. Michael’s dad and grandfather started out casting farm bells, and that creative spirit eventually led to the first pie irons we know and love. What began as a simple idea has become a campfire staple for generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

Michael shared some tips for getting creative with your pie irons. Sure, you can make a gooey cherry pie or the perfect grilled cheese, but that’s just the beginning! He recommends using classic cast iron for durability, trimming your bread for that perfect seal, and not being afraid to experiment with new ingredients. The beauty of campfire pie iron cooking is that it’s both fun and delicious — and every meal feels like a little adventure.

Think pie irons are just for campfires? Think again! They’re awesome for backyard grills too. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dessert or a full meal, pie irons open up a world of possibilities. Michael even suggested getting creative with wonton wrappers, tortillas, and more. Just don’t forget to properly season and care for your cast iron — treat it right, and it’ll last a lifetime of camping trips.

You can find Rome Pie Irons at outdoor outfitters and gourmet kitchen shops, but for the full lineup (plus some really fun accessories), head over to their website at pieiron.com.

Rome Pie Irons are changing the game for campfire cooking, giving you endless ways to make your next trip a little tastier. Whether you’re perfecting a classic pudgy pie or inventing your own campfire creation, a pie iron is a must-pack item. Need more ideas and inspiration? Come hang out with us at Girl Camper Events — we’ve got all the recipes, tips, and encouragement you need.

Happy camping, and happy cooking!

Also can check Rome Pie Irons out on Amazon:  https://amzn.to/3GtBoh2

For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance.

Need a new brake controller?  Take a look at Curt’s Echo Mobile Brake Controller. 

Looking for more cooking inspiration?  Check out our Camp Cooking page on our website.   

Hey there, Girl Campers! Dive into the world of RV tank maintenance on this podcast episode. Lesa McDermott is your host and she explores “the proper care of your gray and black tanks.” Joined by Matt Foxcroft, founder of Liquified and Matt’s RV Reviews, they unlock the secrets to keeping your tanks clean and odor-free.

Matt reveals some big blunders RVers often make. Leaving tank valves open can lead to unpleasant issues, while using too little water creates bigger headaches. The key? Balance—enough water to prevent “poop pyramids” while steering clear of harsh chemicals that disrupt beneficial bacteria.

Don’t want to tackle deep cleaning your RV tanks or maintenance yourself? Matt partners with Tank Rangers to ensure you’re covered. If DIY is your route, Matt & Lesa talk about several ways you can thoroughly clean your tanks and the tools you’ll need. They also discuss how RV toilet treatments can work for gray tanks too!

Hydrate your tank post-dump (never leave it completely dry), add enzyme treatments for breakdown, and avoid baby wipes, feminine products, and heavy-duty toilet paper. Got a dreaded clog? Matt recommends their Tank and Sensor Cleaner for a DIY fix, alongside using toilet wands for tougher cases. No…. the ice cube method does not work as proven by The Fit RV. You can see their video HERE.

Hot climates? Double up on treatments, especially in sweltering regions like Arizona. Keeping your tanks fresh in any weather is a must to avoid odors that escalate in the heat.

Beyond just RV tips, Girl Camper is a community for women adventurers of all kinds. Whether it’s camping, hiking, or sports, there’s no wrong way to “Camp Like a Girl.” We hope you enjoyed this podcast episode and learned something new on maintenance for your tanks on your RV and thank you to Matt Foxcroft for being our guest.

Don’t miss your chance to enter to win an Alliance Delta SLE ML206 RV from Liquified! You have until May 31, 2025 to enter on Liquified’s website and no purchase is necessary. Thank you to this podcast episode’s sponsors: Go RVing & Progressive Insurance.

Looking for more RV Maintenance advice? Be sure to check out our articles in our Camping 101 section.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott visits with Susan Lanier Graham, a seasoned travel writer and full-time RVing enthusiast, about the joys and challenges of living and working on the road.

Susan is the founder of Wander With Wonder and a managing editor for both print and digital publications. With her husband Bill, she’s embraced the digital nomad lifestyle, traveling the world in their customized 37-foot fifth wheel.

The allure of full-time RV living is the incredible flexibility it provides. Susan has enjoyed breathtaking views from the Puget Sound to the Florida coast. The ability to work from anywhere is appealing, making every location feel like a prolonged vacation.

Despite its advantages, full-time RVing comes with its own set of challenges. Navigating logistics like healthcare, mail forwarding, and maintaining reliable internet are hurdles. Tune it to learn what Susan relies on for connectivity while acknowledging backup plans are essential.

Susan advises renting an RV for an extended period as a trial. Emphasize personalizing your space without the need for all-plastic kitchenware, as comfort is key. She also uses RV Life’s Trip Wizard to plan routes and avoid potential road hazards. (use coupon code GirlCamper for 25% off)

For those considering this lifestyle, tools like Work Camper and RV Trip Wizard are invaluable. Susan shares her adventures and tips on Instagram and Pinterest at Wonder With Wonder, offering inspiration for future road trips.

Susan’s insights provide a compelling glimpse into the full-time RV life, balancing travel’s romanticism with reality’s demands. Whether you’re considering this lifestyle or simply curious, it’s clear there’s much to learn and enjoy on the road.

Special Thank You to this episodes sponsors:  Progressive Insurance and Curt Quick Pin Coupler.

Here at Girl Camper, we love sharing the stories of women who inspire us to try new things, embrace adventure, and build community. Lisa Dempsey, one of our amazing Texas Girl Camper Guides, is the perfect example. Her journey from non-camper to leader and advocate proves that it’s never too late to start something new—and that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you never saw coming. She inspires women to camp.

Lisa grew up in California and eventually made her way to Houston, Texas. Camping wasn’t on her radar—until a connection with Texas Parks and Wildlife lit a spark. Lisa began exploring the outdoors through cabin stays and quickly caught the camping bug. That spark turned into a full-blown passion, and before long, she had her own cozy teardrop trailer, tricked out with all the creature comforts.

When Lisa discovered Girl Camper, she jumped in with both feet. She loved the way it brought women together and encouraged even the most hesitant adventurers to step outside their comfort zones. Her very first Girl Camper event sealed the deal—she found her people and never looked back.

Lisa didn’t just find community—she became a leader. As a Girl Camper Guide, she now helps other women discover the joy of camping, connection, and confidence. Whether it’s a weekend retreat or a one-on-one chat, Lisa is all about lifting others up and showing them they belong in the outdoors.

Lisa also runs the Forgotten Wishes Foundation, an initiative that brings joy to people with disabilities through simple, heartfelt gestures like handwritten cards. It’s another way she spreads light and love wherever she goes.

Lisa’s story reminds us that every camper starts somewhere—and that community can change everything. Ready to find your people? Come camp with us and see where the journey takes you.

To Join Lisa’s Southeast Texas Group, check out her page on our website: HERE

Thank you to this episodes sponsors: Progressive Insurance and Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller.

In this episode of the Girl Camper podcast, we dive into the world of work camping, offering advice for anyone wanting to hit the road but still have an income. Co-Host Lesa McDermott and special guest Jody Anderson Duquette, Executive Director of Workamper News, explore work camping opportunities and how you can turn your travels into a working adventure.

Work camping involves doing any kind of work while living in an RV, although there are some jobs that providing housing or tent sites. It’s not limited to campgrounds; opportunities range from retail shops, lodges, and tour companies to unique gigs like manning lighthouses or seasonal jobs such as the sugar beet harvest.

Start by joining Workamper.com, a resource for finding work camping jobs . Jody suggests identifying your skills and flexibility – from customer service to maintenance tasks. An open mindset is key since most positions are entry-level, requiring willingness over specific experience.

Jody highlighted the variety of jobs available, from golf courses to historic sites. Although predominantly individuals 55 and over dominate the field, there’s a growing number of younger families embracing this lifestyle. If you value community and flexibility, work camping might be your ideal match.

Many work camping positions provide compensation packages including pay, RV sites, and various amenities. It’s crucial to understand different pay structures and legal requirements before diving in. With the right approach, work camping can be both fun and financially rewarding.

Work camping is a gateway to seeing the country and meeting new people. Whether seeking adventure, community, or a traveling home, this lifestyle offers endless possibilities. For those intrigued, explore resources on Workamper.com to find what work camping opportunities are out there or connect with fellow enthusiasts to find your path.

Special thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Progressive Insurance and Curt Manufacturing Rockerball Trailer Ball

Looking for ways to improve your fuel economy? Check out our article Simple Steps To Improve Fuel Efficiency.

Welcome to the world of outdoor culinary adventures! Recently on the Girl Camper podcast, hosts Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott welcomed Chef Steve Corso of Outdoor Eats—a trailblazer in outdoor cooking innovation. In this episode, Chef Corso shared his expertise on transforming simple outdoor meals into gourmet experiences and highlighted the mission of Outdoor Eats: encouraging people to eat well while enjoying the great outdoors.

From Simple to Gourmet

Chef Corso’s journey began with his personal passion for hiking and a realization: typical outdoor meals lacked variety and excitement. Through Outdoor Eats, he has introduced over 300 trail-tested recipes fit for all types of adventurers, from novice campers to seasoned backpackers. Whether it’s a quick Pad Thai or beef stroganoff made with jerky, Chef Corso’s recipes promise flavor and ease.

The Weasel Bag and Beyond

One of Chef Corso’s unique contributions is the “Weasel Bag,” a collection of small, easily transportable packets of condiments, sauces, and seasonings that elevate any meal. He also discussed the versatility of ingredients like coconut milk powder, which can transform a simple dish into a tropical delight with minimal effort.

Cooking Gear Tips

The right tools can transform your outdoor cooking experience. Chef Corso shared his favorites, such as the MSR wind burner and foldable camp chef’s knife, emphasizing that the key to choosing gear lies in understanding your trip’s demands. He also recommended refillable butane lighters over traditional Bics.

Outdoor Eats TV

Chef Corso’s adventures don’t stop at recipes. He’s brought the Outdoor Eats concept to television, blending a food show with travel and adventure. From cooking alpine fondue in Switzerland to creating unique dishes across the U.S., each episode combines culinary art with exploration.

For more information, tips, and recipes, visit OutdoorEats.com or check out Chef Corso on social media. As Janine and Lesa suggest, it’s time to explore the possibilities of gourmet trail dining. Happy trails!

Want more cooking tips? Check out our Cooking 101 section of our website.

Learn More About Chef Corso:  https://outdooreats.com

Get An Insurance Quote From Progressive Insurance:  https://www.progressive.com/GirlCamper

Check Out Curt’s QuickPin Coupler:  https://www.curtmfg.com/quickpin

Knife link:  https://amzn.to/4kLvGqD

Anthony’s Coconut Milk Powder:  https://amzn.to/4hjY8gc

MSR Windburner Stove:  https://amzn.to/4hjZpnu

Flexible Cutting Board: https://amzn.to/4bQ0BxN

Butane Lighter:  https://amzn.to/4icLLnr

Opinel Trail Kit: https://amzn.to/4bQdAzG

Mini Spatula Kit:  https://amzn.to/4iEF65i

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you! This helps support Girl Camper and allows us to continue creating content.  We only recommend products we personally use, trust, or believe will be helpful to you. Thank you for your support!