What is a dirt bag, and is a Toyota a fit for that lifestyle?

Most of the time when you hear the word “dirt bag”, it’s assumed that it’s a derogatory term. However, the phrase has taken on a whole new meaning in recent years, and believe it or not, having the right Orlando Toyota could help you truly embrace the dirtbag lifestyle. Our Toyota of Orlando experts are here to fill you in.

A dirt bag definition: What you should know

As we said, dirt bag used to be an unkind term. However, it’s taken on a new meaning. Now, the dirt bag definition refers to an individual who’s decided to forego a so-called “normal” life to pursue an outdoor passion like climbing, hiking, etc. A dirt bag typically lives in their vehicle (which is why we mentioned our Orlando Toyotas) and spends their time traveling around, seeking out new adventures and outdoor experiences.

Dirt bags used to only refer to climbers who lived this unique lifestyle, but now encompasses hikers, rafters and kayakers, surfers, skiers, base jumpers, and anyone else living their life in pursuit of outdoors and adventure. As noted, they often live in their car or a tent, have few personal belongings, don’t occupy a traditional job, and value their time and nature more than anything. But where did the movement start?

A brief look at dirt bag history

Two of the “original” dirt bags include Yvon Chouinard and Fred Beckey, two legendary climbers and mountaineers. These adventurers put nature first, giving up ordinary lives to pursue their love of the outdoors.

Beckey climbed some of the tallest mountain peaks in the world and was able to claim many first ascents (the first successful documented climb to the top) for many of them. He never married, had children, or pursued a career to maximize his time spent in nature. In fact, Patagonia made a movie about him entitled Dirtbag: The Legend of Fred Beckey. 

Speaking of Patagonia, let’s talk about Yvon Chouinard. He’s the founder of the outdoor-driven brand, and in order to be able to pursue his passion for climbing, he learned blacksmithing and often made his own climbing tools. He also has several first ascents under his belt, climbed with Fred Beckey, and went on to eventually found the clothing and gear brand Patagonia. He’s also a proponent of environmental activism.

Is dirt bag camping for you?

Think you might like to get closer to nature and spend your time pursuing outdoor adventure? Here are a few tips to get you started.

Be prepared to live cheaply. A dirt bag lifestyle means living frugally, especially if you’re going to live it long-term. You won’t have a mortgage, but you will have to find shelter, buy food and water, and buy + maintain any equipment you need for your adventures.

Consider remote work. If you can find a remote gig and keep a laptop with you, you’re going to have an easier time when it comes to dirt bag camping. Having some sort of steady income can ensure you have a hot shower at least every once in a while and can keep your car fueled up and your food supply steady. Don’t forget, places like Starbucks and public libraries have free wifi.

Look for the roads less traveled. Staying in high-profile campgrounds and national/state parks can be pricey. Look for lesser-known campgrounds or dispersed camping that are close to where you want to adventure.

Meal plan. Be organized about your food and water situation to be able to stick to your budget. You need energy to seek out adventure.

Become a part of the dirt bag community. Talking to other dirt bags is your best bet on finding hidden gems, lesser-known campgrounds and parks, and learning the tools and tricks of the trade. Immerse yourself into the lifestyle and let others’ wisdom help guide you.

Which Orlando Toyota fits a dirt bag lifestyle?

Being a dirt bag means you’re going to be on the go and often off the beaten path. Here are some characteristics you’ll want to look for in a new Toyota:

• Fuel efficiency. You’ll be on a budget, so why waste money on gas if you don’t have to?
• Off-road capabilities. Finding new adventures and hidden gems often means getting out of civilization – have the right tools to do it safely and efficiently.
• Interior space. If you’re going to camp inside of your car, you want the space to get comfortable, especially if you’re going to live the dirt bag lifestyle long term.

So which Orlando Toyotas fit the bill? Here are our recommendations:

2024 Toyota RAV4 Adventure or TRD Off-Road. Both offer Dynamic Torque Vectoring all-wheel drive, and the TRD model has a TRD-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires suited for getting off the pavement.

2024 Toyota Tacoma. The Tacoma is one of the most versatile trucks in the lineup. You can opt for a hybrid model thanks to the new redesign (which means better fuel efficiency), and you’ll have options like manual transmission, skid plates, and multi-terrain select in the TRD Off-Road model. Plus, the bed is perfect for camping.

2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. This new crossover is affordable and fuel-efficient (you’ll get 45/38 mpg) and has plenty of interior space for you to stretch out and get comfortable, as well as store your dirt bag camping gear.

Embrace the dirt bag lifestyle in the right Toyota

Ready to get off the grid and into the wild? Shop our new Toyotas at Toyota of Orlando for the perfect solution. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Mall at Millenia!

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