Introduction and Channel Update

Good morning, I’m Bill Lollar. I appreciate you taking the time to check out my journey. Let me update you on where things are now and what’s been happening in my life, especially with my recent adventures in Tesla travel.

Trading the Chevy for a Tesla

I recently made the leap and bought a 2022 Tesla Model Y, trading in my cherished 2014 Chevy Silverado High Country. While my Chevy was top-of-the-line, I realized it wasn’t truly meeting my needs, especially with its frustratingly short truck bed. After some negotiations with a local dealership, I managed to strike a deal on the Tesla without enduring sales tax on the trade-in. The excitement of having a low monthly payment and an environmentally friendly vehicle was just the beginning of my new adventures.

The Road Trip Begins

With my Tesla ready to roll, I embarked on a road trip from Pensacola. The itinerary led me west into Alabama, across Mississippi, and up to Memphis, Tennessee—mainly to catch up with an old friend. Although I left home later in the day, I embraced the journey, covering approximately 200 miles before stopping for a charge. This routine allowed me to stretch my legs, grab some food, and clean up the car before hitting the road again. My destination was Springfield, Missouri, but not without some challenges along the way.

Challenges with Charging Stations

As I planned my route, a crucial oversight became apparent: I lacked the necessary CCS1 adapter for some non-Tesla charging stations along my preferred route. To navigate this, I opted to stick with the Tesla Supercharger network and adjusted my path accordingly, weaving through Arkansas to finally reach Missouri. This hiccup taught me a valuable lesson, and while visiting my friend in Springfield, I ordered the missing adapter to ensure it wouldn’t hinder future travels.

Visiting Friends and Sightseeing

During my stay in Missouri, I enjoyed explorations in the Ozark Mountains and reconnected with old friends in the Branson area. My journey continued south, where I relied on the Boondockers Welcome network for welcoming overnight stays. These connections enriched my travel experiences, offering both hospitality and new landscapes. One memorable detour included an unplanned hotel stop in Jonesboro for a well-needed shower before visiting another friend in Memphis.

Planning the Next Big Trip

With the road trip serving as a valuable shakedown cruise, I’m now planning a major winter escape to either New Mexico or Arizona, aiming to settle temporarily in Quartzsite—a hotspot for nomads. I envision a travel pace of about 200-250 miles daily, aligning my travels with charging needs and the quest for captivating landscapes. The journey will likely include visiting my sister in Albuquerque, and map explorations from there to Quartzsite, avoiding crowded tourist attractions for serene adventures.

Future Plans and Reflections

Looking ahead, I’m working on housing arrangements, including selling my current shared house in Pensacola to invest in a modest RV site or a peaceful patch of rural land. I seek a simple, affordable place to unwind, pursuing my hobbies and music without succumbing to tourist-driven expenses. Ideally, I’d like to stay mobile enough to visit family during the holidays yet enjoy the solitude of a farmer’s land when I choose.

Thank you for accompanying me on this journey. I hope you look forward to future updates as I continue to explore and share my Tesla travels. Stay tuned for more adventures!