Exploring the Open Road: Tim & Diane's Part-Time Adventures

For Tim and Diane, the beauty of van life isn’t about going full-time—it’s about the boundless freedom to explore, one adventure at a time. Their camper van gives them the perfect balance of extended travel and the ability to stay connected with family. Unlike larger campers that can limit travel flexibility, their setup allows them to go almost anywhere. One of the biggest perks? The ability to park their van at the airport, fly home for a visit, and return to their adventure seamlessly. This freedom to explore while staying close to loved ones is a game-changer for their travels.

National Parks, Big Cities, and Hidden Gems

Tim and Diane have a deep love for America’s National Parks, with Yellowstone National Park holding a special place in their hearts. The sheer size and power of the bison left a lasting impression on them, and they plan to revisit old favorites while checking off new parks on their list. Beyond national parks, they enjoy the diverse landscapes of the U.S., from the countryside to busy cities.

Speaking of cities, they recently discovered that New York City has a campground! From the grand wilderness to the energy of urban life, they embrace every new experience the road has to offer. Their next big stops? Key West for some well-earned relaxation and Michigan’s Lake Michigan shoreline. The western U.S. is also calling their names, promising even more adventure ahead.

Retirement and Military Camaraderie

Their trip to Key West marks the beginning of Diane’s retirement, a milestone that brings even more opportunities for exploration. Staying at a military campground, Tim looks forward to reconnecting with fellow veterans, soaking up the community that comes with shared service experiences. For them, the people they meet along the way are just as rewarding as the destinations themselves.

A Journey Guided by Locals

Tim and Diane don’t just stick to a rigid itinerary—they embrace the unexpected. One of their favorite parts of traveling is discovering hidden gems recommended by locals. Whether it’s a tucked-away scenic route or a small-town diner with the best pie, they make it a point to follow the advice of those who know the area best. And of course, no road trip is complete without a stop at Buc-ee’s!

Finding the Perfect Travel Style

When it comes to camping styles, Tim and Diane consider themselves somewhere between modern nomads and weekend warriors. They appreciate the dedication of weekend travelers who make the most of short trips, while their van life setup allows them to travel frequently without being tied down. Their approach blends the best of both worlds—extended road trips with the ability to return home whenever they choose.

Their travel style is a mix of planning and spontaneity. While they have a general idea of their destinations, they remain open to unexpected detours and last-minute opportunities. They document their adventures through @campervan.diaries and @travel.tim.diane, keeping track of future destinations and must-visit spots along the way.

Unforgettable Experiences & Lessons from the Road

One of their most surprising travel experiences? Staying at a campground next to a zoo, where they could hear the roar of a tiger from their campsite!

Van life has also come with its fair share of humorous moments, including their first attempt at YouTube content creation. While they had grand visions of documenting their travels professionally, their first video attempt ended in uncontrollable laughter—something they still chuckle about to this day.

A typical day on the road for them starts with a peaceful morning, followed by exploring new places, chatting with fellow travelers, and enjoying local cuisine. Whether they’re hiking, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the beauty of a new location, each day is an adventure.

Advice for Aspiring Travelers

Tim and Diane encourage anyone considering traveling to just go for it! Their philosophy? If you don’t love it, you can always go back to a traditional lifestyle. You don’t have to sell everything—rent an camper or van first and give it a test run. The freedom and experiences that come with this lifestyle are well worth it, and they believe it’s better to try and decide than to never take the leap at all.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, they wish they had known just how easy and rewarding van life could be. The biggest impact of their journey has been the realization that the world is full of incredible places and people—just waiting to be discovered. Their best advice? Stay open to the adventure, embrace the unexpected, and never hesitate to take the road less traveled.

For more about Tim and Diane and their adventures, follow them on social media:

Follow their journey on @campervan.diaries and @travel.tim.diane as they continue exploring, one road trip at a time!