Moochdocking 101: How to Moochdocking Like A Pro

Moochdocking has become one of the popular terms in the RV world, but what exactly is moochdocking? For RVers or campers, moochdocking means camping for free on your friend's or family member's property. This type of camping is preferred, especially at times when it is tough to get reservations at campgrounds.

While moochdocking means free camping, it does not mean you don't need to pack the essentials for a comfortable stay. In fact, you need all the essential gear like sleeping bags, electric grills, and even a power source. Jackery Solar Generators are portable charging solutions with large battery capacity, making them ideal for outdoor adventures like moochdocking.

Products	Image	Capacity	Rated / Peak Power	Battery	Size
Solar Generator 2000 Pro		2160Wh	2200W Inverter (4400W Surge)	Lithium-ion	Height: 12.1 in (30.75 cm) Width: 10.5 in (26.9 cm) Length: 15.1 in (38.4 cm)
Solar Generator 1000 Pro		1002Wh	1000W Inverter (2000W Surge)	Lithium-ion	Height: 10.06 in (25.5 cm) Width: 10.32 in (26.2 cm) Length: 13.39 in (34 cm)
Solar Generator 500		518Wh	500W Inverter (1000W Surge)	Lithium-ion	Height: 9.2 in (23.4cm) Width: 7.6 in (19.3cm) Length: 11.8 in (30.0cm)

What Does Moochdocking Mean?

Let's start with: what is moochdocking? In simple terms, moochdocking means camping in your rig on a relative's or friend's property. This is why this type of camping is also known as driveway surfing, which means parking your RV on the street, in front of a friend's house, or at the back of the property.

Moochdocking vs Boondocking: What Are The Differences

When it comes to free camping, the two terms that come to mind are boondocking and moochdocking. While the names look similar, there are some main differences between RV moochdocking and boondocking.

Boondocking is done mainly on public lands and other commercial properties that permit dispersed camping. This is primarily a type of self-sufficient dry camping that often takes place in the middle of nowhere.

As mentioned above, moochdocking is similar and often takes place with the permission of your friend or relative. Though you shouldn't expect hookups when moochdocking, friends and family often offer kitchen, laundry, and bathroom facilities.

What Are The Pros & Cons of Moochdocking?

Now that you know the basic definition of moochdocking, you might be wondering why somebody would choose it over expensive campgrounds. Below, we will reveal some common reasons why RVers should try moochdocking once in their life.

• RVers or campers often constantly drive with no home base. Moochdocking gives you a break from the road so you can slow down a little and enjoy some free time.
• When you stay near your friend's or family member's place, you get occasional hookups to run some essential appliances like showers, cooking gear, TV, and more.
• One of the main benefits of moochdocking is that it is entirely free, so you can spend money on enjoying rather than campground fees.

There are no such cons of moochdocking as it is entirely free to get started and involves no extra work except packing the essentials.

Moochdocking Gear: What to Pack?

Those planning to hit the road for some off-grid living must pack some luxuries of their home with them on a wild adventure. Here is a list of essential things you should pack to make your moochdocking trip a success.

Water Filter: You'll need a way to filter the water and fill your fresh water tank. A portable water filter will help you make sure you've enough water for consumption.

LED Lights (Indoor and Outdoor): The next thing you'll be using during moochdocking is LED lights to illuminate the space in and around the campsite.

Space Heater: When you've parked outside in the open sky, it can get cold, even during the warmer months. A space heater will keep your space warm and comfortable for a stay.

Electric Grills: An outdoor grill allows you to cook under the stars and set the mood for camping trips.

Flashlight: All types of campings require a flashlight, and moochdocking is no different. Consider packing a flashlight to venture around in the woods and explore nature.

Emergency Kit: A first-aid kit with safety vests, emergency drinking water, foil blankets, extra power cords, LED road flares, and some batteries are essential gear for moochdocking.

Power Source: Lastly and most importantly, you'll need a moochdocking power source to charge all the small and large electrical devices during camping. Jackery Solar Generators are compact and portable charging solutions for small spaces like RVs.

For example, Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro can charge 96% of your outdoor appliances for long hours. It has a large battery capacity of 2160Wh that can provide stable and steady charge to most moochdocking devices.

Jackery Solar Generators for Moochdocking

Having your own power source can help you stay comfortable throughout your trip. You don't have to bother the site owner for a power supply, nor do you need to miss on the luxury. The amount of electricity you'll need for RV moochdocking depends on the electrical loads and the estimated running time of the electronics.

Jackery is a leading manufacturer of solar products, including innovative solar generators, power stations, and solar panels. The Jackery Solar Generators combine the power station and solar panels that work in tandem to collect, convert, and store electrical energy. The energy converted is then used to power most small and large outdoor appliances.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro has a colossal capacity of 2160Wh to power outdoor gear like RV refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, and more. The powerful solar generator is excellent for off-road camping, moochdocking, or boondocking. The best part is the solar generator can be recharged in only 2.5 hours using 6*Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels.

Customer Review

"I'm glad I bought this. I've been using this as a portable power station to power all of my tools, and it never ran out of juice. The option to charge via a 12V outlet makes this very convenient for camping or any outside activities." — Nguyen Huy.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

Also known as a "more than a fast solar generator," Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro can charge around 93% of your outdoor appliances. It has multiple ports like 2*USB-C and 2*100W PD ports to deliver steady charge to phones, CPAP machines, refrigerators, and more. With 4*SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels, you can recharge the solar generator in only 1.8 hours.

Customer Review

"I bought this because I love to camp. In the event of a power outage or unforeseen circumstances, this would be an absolute lifeline for me and my young family. It's a camp "toy" that I splurged on with zero guilt! I should add that it works flawlessly." — Aaron Prewitt.

Jackery Solar Generator 500

Jackery Solar Generator 500 has a battery capacity of 518Wh and features seven output ports to charge multiple tools at once. It is a compact power solution that weighs only 13.32 lbs, making it suitable for outdoor trips like moochdocking. Unlike traditional or gas generators, solar generators operate at less than 37.9dB and won't disturb your sleep.

Customer Review

"I bought the Explorer 500 power source and SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel for my CPAP when we go camping. Works perfectly. Use it for a night or two and charge it in the day. The built-in flashlight comes in handy, too." — Mark.

Moochdocking Tips: How Do You Moochdock?

There's no doubt that moochdocking is excellent for RVers and campers. The best way to go about the camping trip is by understanding the moochdocking etiquette rules. Here, we will discuss some important tips you need to know before embarking on a moochdocking journey.

Know the Official Rules: Before you choose the location to moochdock, make sure you know the official rules about parking an RV on the host's property. That's because many HOAs do not allow RVers to park and camp in the neighborhood. Consider all the rules related to camping before you park on your friend's land.

Discuss Length of Stay: It's best practice to discuss how many days you will stay and stick to it. Make sure you do not overstay at any land, even if it is free.

Ask Before You Use: Always seek permission before you use anything on your friend's land. This includes water, electricity, dumpsters, outdoor toys, and the Internet.

Find The Campsites: Not every site is ideal for moochdocking, so make sure to find free campsites that offer a comfortable stay.

Dispose of Wastewater Supply: While boondocking, it's not a great idea to dump waste water on the ground. Instead, use a septic cleanout or head to a nearby dump station to dispose of the wastewater.

Final Thoughts

Moochdocking or surfing a driveway can be an excellent way to reconnect with nature and spend time away from busy city life. Following a few simple etiquette and choosing the right place will help you moochdock safely and comfortably.

Another important thing you must do is pack the right gear and carry a Jackery Solar Generator for charging small and large appliances. It's a compact charging solution for outdoor gear, so you don't have to worry about missing out on the luxury.