A Year Backpacking the United States

Hello, my name is Cleanshave.

Not your usual type of name, it's more of what some people would call a trail name.

I got the name when I thru hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2011. I was one of the only guys who wasn't using their time in the woods to grow out their beard. In fact I shaved almost every day.

Since 2010 I have taken between 3 to 6 months off of work each year just to travel. I'm not rich, far from it actually, I just like getting out and seeing new things. But on July 20, 2015 my whole world changed. I walked away from my apartment, my relationship and my job.

I had no money saved, I had no plan. I was attacked by bears, snakes and even cows...

And yet here it is, almost a year later, and I am not only still alive but I am happier for the experience.

I took a few things in my backpack and hit the road.

It wasn't like all those peppy, upbeat videos on YouTube where everyone makes it seem like nothing can go wrong.

This was real.

I was broke and basically homeless.

I hiked, and hitchhiked my way across the country. I figured out what I needed and what I could do without.

And I not only survived but I had the time of my life.

I look forward to sharing some of those experiences here on Steemit for people who maybe want to travel but don't have the money, or perhaps for those of you who feel like your life has become a dead end road and you just need a change.

A person can make the change that your heart desires.

If you have wanted to travel but hesitated, feel free to hit me up here and ask any questions you can think of. What to pack, where to go, how to get money, whatever.