Alex Mercer 
I’ve done some questionable things for coffee on the road. Brewed grounds in a sock over a campfire in Big Bend. Paid eight dollars for lukewarm convenience store sludge outside of Amarillo. Once, in a moment of pure desperation somewhere along Highway 50 in Nevada—dubbed the Loneliest Road in America for good reason—I dissolved instant … Read more
Every year around this time, I start scrambling for the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Flowers wilt, chocolates disappear, and honestly, most moms I know — my own included — would trade every bouquet in the world for a weekend away from the daily grind. This year, Mother’s Day falls on May 11th, which means there’s … Read more
I’ve logged somewhere north of 2,000 miles on trails across North America over the past eight years, and if there’s one piece of gear that can make or break your day hike, it’s the pack on your back. Too small and you’re leaving essentials behind. Too big and you’re carrying dead weight. The wrong suspension … Read more
When you’re building out a campervan for long-term travel, the battery system is arguably the most critical component you’ll install. It powers everything from your refrigerator and lights to your laptop and coffee maker. But having a massive battery bank is useless if it’s not properly secured. A loose battery isn’t just an inconvenience — … Read more
There’s a moment about two hours east of Duluth when Highway 61 narrows, the birch trees crowd close, and Lake Superior opens up on your left like something out of a painting you didn’t know existed. I’d driven a lot of American roads by that point — the Pacific Coast Highway, the Blue Ridge Parkway, … Read more
Why Spring is Prime Time for Black Hills and Badlands There’s something magical about hitting the Black Hills and Badlands in spring. After months of winter quiet, the landscape transforms into a canvas of newborn wildlife, blooming wildflowers, and dramatic weather that makes photographers drool. I’ve spent years exploring South Dakota’s iconic destinations, and I’ve … Read more
Why Spring is Prime Time for Black Hills and Badlands There’s something magical about hitting the Black Hills and Badlands in spring. After months of winter quiet, the landscape transforms into a canvas of newborn wildlife, blooming wildflowers, and dramatic weather that makes photographers drool. I’ve spent years exploring South Dakota’s iconic destinations, and I’ve … Read more
Why Great Smoky Mountains is America’s Spring Wildflower Capital There’s a reason botanists and wildflower enthusiasts flock to the Great Smoky Mountains every spring. This isn’t just about pretty flowers—it’s about witnessing one of North America’s most spectacular natural displays. I’ve spent years chasing wildflowers across the country, from desert superblooms to alpine meadows, and … Read more
The Rise of the Dual-Vehicle Travel Lifestyle The open road calls to different adventurers in different ways. For some, it’s the freedom of a campervan that lets you wake up to ocean sunrises one morning and mountain vistas the next. For others, it’s the silent, smooth acceleration of an electric vehicle that makes every journey … Read more
Planning your first solo female road trip across America? This comprehensive 2026 safety guide covers vehicle preparation, route planning, accommodation safety, communication strategies, and essential gear for empowering cross-country adventures.