Wherever We Land

When you make a commitment to live more sustainably at home, something beautiful happens — it starts to show up in every part of your life, even when you’re away from home and out in the wild. That’s exactly what I’ve noticed in my journey toward simple, intentional living. The daily decisions I make at home, like unplugging appliances and conserving energy, have slowly and naturally trickled into how I camp and care for the outdoors.

Every morning at home, I make it a point to unplug small appliances when they’re not in use — the coffee maker, toaster, fans, even chargers. It’s a small habit that reduces phantom energy use, and over time, those little bits of saved energy make a big difference. I also open the curtains instead of flipping on lights, letting natural sunlight fill the space and connect me to the rhythm of the day.

When we’re camping, these same energy-conscious habits follow me. Whether we’re tent camping or in our van ‘GLO,’ I’m mindful of how much power we’re using, how long lights are on, and how we can enjoy nature without draining it. We use solar-powered lights and chargers, and we cook over a fire or with minimal propane when possible. It’s all about using only what we need and being thankful for every resource we’re given.

Another habit that’s crossed over from home to campsite is water conservation. At home, I reuse rinse water for plants and never let the faucet run without reason. When camping, that awareness is heightened — I always bring reusable water jugs, wash dishes in small bins instead of under running water, and use biodegradable soap to protect the land we’re so blessed to enjoy.

Packing light and creating less waste is another big one. At home, I recycle and compost as much as possible. On the road, we make intentional choices like using reusable utensils, cloth napkins, and containers instead of disposable ones. Not only does this cut down on trash, but it helps us leave every campsite better than we found it.

Living sustainably isn’t a big, dramatic change — it’s a lifestyle shaped by small, conscious decisions. And when those decisions travel with you into the great outdoors, they do more than just protect the environment. They deepen your respect for it. They remind you that God gave us this Earth not to dominate, but to steward with care.

So, whether I’m unplugging a blender or soaking in a quiet moment by the campfire, I’m thinking about the long-term impact. And I’m realizing that sustainable living doesn’t stop when we leave the driveway — it goes wherever we land.