Tips for making the transition from 9-5er to Dirtbag

There are few ways you can more radically alter your lifestyle, possibly besides having a kid, or getting plastic surgery. But just like those two events, this transition can be a little rocky, confusing, but exhilarating all at the same time. Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the past few weeks:

Get a van. Living out of a car is possible, and I’ve done it before for a few months. But just because something is possible doesn't mean it’s a good idea. See: Human Powered Hydrofoil.

“Living out of my car” has a certain rustic, stoic appeal to it. People admire the sound of it. “Living in a van” does not. And don’t try to stop your friends from all doing their Chris Farley impressions, cause you can’t. Let that run its course.

The most psyched about your decision will be:

• Close Friends
• Other Climbers
• People who wish they had done the same thing at your age

The least psyched will probably be:

• Your Mother (you know your mother. she worries.)
• Anyone you’ve broken up with in the past few months (They’ll think it’s about them. Let em, everyone can use a little ego boost.)
• Anyone you’ve just met (They’ll think it’s about them. Sit them down and listen to Freebird together.)
• Your Redneck Neighbors (Hey you should put a shower in that thing, if you’re gonna have a real camper.)

Temporary Health insurance isn’t as expensive as you might think. There are plenty of plans out there, just google it.

Sell anything you can before leaving. The things you own own you back twice as hard.

Watch climbing videos to stay psyched. As soon as you decide to go, the days just can’t seem to go by fast enough.

Know that while some things about this trip will be great, and others will suck, you’re about to have one of the best experiences of your life.