Seek Up Adventures

Family travel is all about making memories, and sometimes, the most unexpected experiences become the most unforgettable. Recently, our family embarked on a unique adventure that combined the charm of a brewery with the rustic simplicity of boondocking, all orchestrated by the wonderful network of Harvest Hosts. This particular trip stood out not just because of the destination, but also due to the challenges we faced, like dealing with a hot night without air conditioning.

Harvest Hosts: A Unique Way to Travel

For those unfamiliar, Harvest Hosts offers a network of wineries, breweries, farms, and other unique locations where RVers can park overnight. It’s a fantastic way to support local businesses while enjoying some off-the-beaten-path experiences. Our choice for this trip was a quaint brewery, Crying Eagle, known for its craft beers, food, and live music.

The Brewery Experience

Arriving at the brewery, we were immediately struck by its welcoming atmosphere. The owners were incredibly friendly, we tasted some of their finest brews and great food! As evening approached, we settled into our spot in the brewery’s lot, ready for a peaceful night and a good nights rest after a long day of travel.

The Challenge: Boondocking Without AC

As the sun set, we quickly realized that the night was going to be much warmer than anticipated. With no hookups available, we were boondocking—essentially dry camping without access to electricity, water, or sewer connections. This meant no air conditioning on a particularly hot night.

Making the Best of It

Despite the heat, we found ways to make the experience enjoyable. Here are a few tips we discovered for surviving a hot night without AC:

1. Strategic Ventilation: We opened all the windows and vents to allow for maximum airflow. Positioning fans near windows helped pull in cooler air from outside.
2. Cool Cloths: We soaked small towels in cold water and placed them on our necks and foreheads. This simple trick provided immediate relief.
3. Hydration: Staying hydrated was crucial. We made sure everyone had plenty of cold water to drink throughout the night.
4. Nighttime Activities: To distract ourselves from the heat, we played card games and shared stories. The brewery’s outdoor seating area provided a lovely spot to unwind.
5. Sleep Arrangements: We used lightweight, breathable bedding and wore light, loose-fitting clothing. The kids found it fun to camp out on the couches near the open windows where it was coolest.

Embracing the Adventure

While the lack of AC made for a challenging night, it also added to the adventure. There’s something about facing a little discomfort together that strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories. By morning, we were tired but in good spirits, ready to continue our journey.

Reflections

Our night at the brewery reminded us why we love family travel so much. It’s not always about the perfect conditions, but about the experiences and the time spent together. Harvest Hosts provided us with a unique and memorable stay, blending the joy of discovering new places with the thrill of overcoming unexpected challenges.

If you’re considering a family travel adventure with Harvest Hosts, don’t shy away from the unknown. Embrace the quirks and the hurdles—they’re all part of the story you’ll tell for years to come.