How Our Off-Grid Journey Began: From Fast Food to Freedom
- Cara Kerouac
- May 9, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 26
Our Journey So Far
Hey there! We’re James and Cara from Kerouacs Cruising, and we’re excited to take you along on our journey into off-grid living and dispersed camping. This blog accompanies our podcast, where we share our experiences, lessons learned, and tips for those looking to break free from conventional living and embrace a life of adventure.
Leaving the Fast Food Rut for the Open Road
James spent 24 years in the fast food industry in Massachusetts and New Hampshire before setting his sights on the Southwest. He had always dreamed of exploring the Grand Canyon, and eventually, that dream led him to Tucson, Arizona.
I, on the other hand, was born in Philadelphia but moved to Tucson at ten. My childhood was spent in the city, far from the rugged landscapes we now call home. In 2009, our paths crossed when I became James’s assistant. We quickly bonded over a shared love for adventure, and the idea of building a different kind of life together began to take shape.
Building a Life Off-Grid in Northern Arizona
James had always wanted to live near the Grand Canyon, and in January 2017, we made it happen. We bought land in Williams, Arizona—a breathtaking 40-acre property that offered the freedom we craved.
Our first winter was brutal. We lived in a poorly insulated camper with a faulty heater, enduring the cold and learning hard lessons about off-grid survival. Determined to create something better, we built a one-room cabin from a shed, adding a kitchen, shower, and sleeping space. Small? Yes. But it is ours, and that makes all the difference.
Lessons from the Road & Dispersed Camping Adventures
With our home base established, we began traveling, seeking out the best-dispersed camping spots across the country. We quit our food jobs and started picking up seasonal work, allowing us to spend more time on the road. The pandemic reinforced what we already knew—life is too short to waste on things that don’t bring you joy.
Soon after, Kerouacs Cruising was born. We wanted to share our journey with others looking to explore off-grid camping, travel with dogs, and create a life outside the norm.
Our Travels & What’s Next
From the forests of Maine to the wild landscapes of Idaho and the stunning beauty of Yellowstone, our travels have taken us to some incredible places. We’ve road-tripped thousands of miles with our pack of dogs—Jewels, Bella, and Norman—who are just as adventurous as we are.
Next up? We’re heading to Sandpoint, Idaho, to welcome James’s new grandchild and explore more remote camping destinations along the way.
Join the Adventure!
We love connecting with fellow travelers, off-grid dreamers, and road-tripping dog lovers. Follow us on Facebook @KerouacsCruising, email us at Join@KerouacsCruising.com, and don’t forget to tune into our latest podcast episodes for more dispersed camping tips and adventure stories.
🎙️ New episode every week—subscribe and hit play!
🚐🏕️ Because life’s most extraordinary adventures begin where the pavement ends.
Thanks for reading, and happy trails!
<3 Cara
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