February 2026

The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous! 

The first Rubber Tramp Rendezvous, held in 2011, was initiated by Bob Wells as a boot camp and support system to help people and to inspire them to happily embrace the mobile life instead of struggling to survive. Sixteen years and thousands of attendees later the RTR’s core mission remains unchanged.

In January HOWA welcomed experienced nomads, new nomads, soon to be nomads, and everyone curious about the lifestyle to nine days of fun and learning with informative speakers, music, games, crafts, food trucks, information, technical help, free cold weather gear and sewing services, and opportunities to meet people and make new friends.

Thank you to all the volunteers, attendees, speakers, sponsors, donors, and staff who helped make the 2026 RTRs a success!

In all the excitement of planning for the RTRs the Giving Tuesday update didn’t make it into the January newsletter. Thanks to your generosity, we didn't just meet our $10,000 match—we blew past it for a total of $20,954! Your donations will keep nomads safe, warm, on the road, and allow HOWA to continue with programs such as the RTRs, eFund, caravans, and mentoring camps.

Caravans Continue

The goal of the caravans is to help new nomads form friendships, become comfortable with dispersed camping, and learn from each other, however, all nomads are welcome. The caravan that took place in Quartzsite during the RTRs provided a perfect landing spot for nomads after a day at the RTRs.

Check the HOWA website on February 8^th for the next caravan location which will be held from February 9^th – 20^th.

Hele Box Program

Homes On Wheels Alliance (HOWA) is partnering with Hele Outdoors to bring the Hele Box Program to low-income nomads in need of a comfortable bed. Hele Outdoors is generously donating approximately five adjustable sleeping platforms to HOWA every quarter.

Specifically designed for small vehicles, these platforms feature adjustable legs to help level out uneven surfaces and maximize comfort.

Applicants for the program should:

• Be in need of a comfortable bed and unable to purchase a Hele Box
• Be a fulltime nomad
• Have a suitable vehicle. Check Here.
• Have a shipping address that will accept a 34" x 12" box

If you fit this criteria, please fill out an application. Hele Box Application

Are you new to nomadic life? Join a Mentoring Camp!

Mentoring Camps are relaxed, friendly gatherings much like an in-person caravan, but with the added bonus of experienced mentors on hand to answer questions and share knowledge about starting the nomad lifestyle - from understanding the basics of the vehicle you’re in to figuring out how to transform it into a comfortable, livable rig. The camps are designed specifically for those in their 1st year of nomadic living.

When: Mid-to-late April 2026.

Where: Pahrump, Nevada.

Applications: Opening mid-February. Check the website in mid- February for the link!

We Have a Winner!

Raymond Ward was all smiles as he drove away in the ambulance that Bob Wells had donated to HOWA to use as a fundraiser. Besides the ambulance Raymond also received a $10,000 check.

Thank you Raymond and everyone who donated to the fundraiser! The donations will be used to help and support nomads.

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