This is Kirsten's Story
She will be sharing more live on 4/17 @2:00 pm ET with
Finding Erika Live Broadcast:
Handling Health Issues While Fulltime RVing
Click Here to Tune In

On October 1, 2021, immediately upon arrival at Desert Eagle Fam Camp at Nellis Air Force Base, I found myself in a situation that no nomad ever wants to experience—I ended up in the hospital. A torn chest muscle from a kettlebell workout led to dangerously high blood pressure because I was off my meds and before I knew it, I was being rushed into medical care. It was a stark reminder that while the nomad lifestyle brings freedom, adventure, and exploration, it also comes with real-life challenges—especially when it comes to handling medical emergencies on the road.

Below are recommendations to help manage a health issue while on the road:

1. Have Comprehensive Health Insurance

Not all insurance plans are created equal, and when you're a nomad, you need coverage that works across state lines. Blue Cross Blue Shield (Florida Blue) has been a great option for us because it offers a broad network of providers nationwide. If you're choosing a plan, look for one that includes:

• Nationwide coverage or reimbursement options
• Telehealth services for minor issues
• Emergency and urgent care benefits in different states

2. Know the Nearest Hospitals and Clinics

Whenever we arrive in a new location, we make it a habit to identify the nearest hospital, urgent care, and pharmacy—just in case. A quick search on Google Maps or using apps like MyRadar (for emergency services) and GoodRx (for finding nearby pharmacies and medication discounts) can save valuable time in an emergency. We were lucky, the hospital on base was directly across from the RV Park and it accepted civilian wives.

3. Carry a Medical Binder or Digital Health Record

When I was admitted to the hospital in Vegas, having access to my medical history, medications, and previous conditions would have helped the doctors act fast. Keep a medical binder in your RV or use a digital health app like Apple Health or MyChart to store:

• Your insurance information
• Current medications and allergies
• Emergency contacts
• A list of any past medical conditions or surgeries

I really need to practice what I'm preaching🤣 I'm committing to ordering this by month's end 4.30.25 and completing it. Check it out it's pretty cool and anyone can benefit from having it not just RVers.

4. Set Up Telehealth Services

Sometimes, an ER visit can be avoided with telehealth consultations. Many insurance providers now offer virtual doctor visits, allowing you to talk to a healthcare provider from anywhere. Mack receives his medical care at the VA. He has used telehealth with VA and has visited hospitals in

• Birmingham, Alabama
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Orlando, FL (This is by far his favorite)

I have a doctor in Florida but I am currently in the process of finding a Telehealth Dr with Florida Blue.

5. Keep an Emergency Medical Kit

Your RV should be stocked with more than just band-aids. Here are essentials to keep in your nomad medical kit:

• Blood pressure monitor (which I now use regularly!) get yours here
• Prescription medications (and backups for extended stays)
• Pain relievers and muscle relaxers
• Basic first-aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic, gauze) you can find a comprehensive reasonably price kit here
• Electrolyte packets to stay hydrated. Don't over look this one, dehydration can come on fast. We use this

6. Have a Backup Plan for Prescriptions... We need help with this one

The prescription thing has been a challenge for me. I thought I had it resolved with Sam's Club by my last 90 day prescription went up $100 due to 2025 pricing. Now I'm just say'n this aint normal.

Running out of a necessary medication while traveling can be dangerous. We are still on the hunt to the solution for this, let us know in the comments if you have recommendations or a great pharmacy experience to share.

7. Stay in Tune with Your Body

One of the biggest lessons I learned from my hospitalization was that I needed to listen to my body before things got out of hand. Since then, I’ve been monitoring my blood pressure, adjusting my workouts, and prioritizing stress management. Preventative care is just as important as emergency care.

8. Know When to Ask for Help

As nomads, we sometimes pride ourselves on being independent, but medical situations are not the time to tough it out alone. If you’re traveling with a partner, make sure they know where your insurance information and medical records are. If you're solo, consider sharing important details with a trusted friend or family member.

My hospitalization in 2021 was a wake-up call—one that made me more aware of how vital it is to be prepared for medical emergencies while living a nomadic lifestyle. The road can be unpredictable, but with the right insurance, medical awareness, and preparation, you can navigate health challenges with confidence.

Being a nomad means embracing freedom, but it also means taking responsibility for your well-being. If you’re on the road, stay prepared, stay healthy, and most importantly, listen to your body—because your greatest adventure should always be a long and healthy one!

Have you ever had a medical emergency while traveling? What are your best tips for handling health care on the road? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your experiences!

Stay Safe and Healthy,

Kirsten & Mack

P.S. Be sure to tune into Finding Erika's Podcast on Thursday, April 17th at 2:00 pm ET Where Kirsten and Erika will be taking a deeper dive into Handling Health Issues While Fulltime RVing. Listen here

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