My WORST Storm EVER! Facing Fiona in a Small Camper

The full-length finale to my 6-part Atlantic Travels series goes out with a roar! Although completely unplanned, my camping trip had to be cut my trip short with news that a hurricane was on the way. It was a frantic run from Labrador to Newfoundland, and finally to Nova Scotia just as the remains of Hurricane Fiona hit the Eastern Coast of Canada. Although not as severe as when it hit the Caribbean, it still packed a wicked punch and in 2022 was Canada's most expensive weather event of all time.
The video starts off in Newfoundland and follows my attempts to escape the worst of the storm and find a safe camping spot in western Nova Scotia. It didn't go as expected of course!

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[davesimmons]

We have a saying in my family of origin:
"Adventure is never fun while it's happening."
But adventures become the stories we tell later around campfires.
Glad you weathered the storm, glad you learned from it.
And I'm glad you have a story to tell around a campfire.

[mariondudek]

Having lived in Florida for over 50 years and experiencing many hurricanes, your experience was frightening. We lost our house in Miami during Andrew in 1992. Unless you experience a hurricane, it is difficult to explain the fear. And after the experience, you will never forget. They always seem to hit at night. Glad you made it through. Now you are hurricane educated.

[SheridansSojourn]

Who knew watching a video of someone sitting around in his camper all night could be so riveting? Seriously glad you made it through the storm. Thanks for letting us join you on your adventures.

[nancymcneill]

You were safe, warm and dry through the most severe weather. Speaks volumes about the construction quality of the camper.

[jessig]

As a Floridian who has gone through several hurricanes, let me add one thing I did not hear you mention in your storm preparedness items - -CASH. If the power is out, even though stores may be open following the storm, they may not be able to process debit/credit cards. I always make a trip to the ATM when I fill up my gas tank so if worse comes to worse, I can leave town to seek shelter with relatives. I have never had to evacuate but, at least, I know I can if need be. Nicole is visiting today. Lots of rain, wind, but not bad.

[krhode]

So few people turn the camera on themselves through an experience like this. Your video drives home the message to avoid hurricanes much more powerfully than those that just show the storm.

[denisefarmer]

Slim, you were very courageous. In a tiny trailer just the sound of the wind is frightening enough. I've been through 5 hurricanes and I could feel every emotion you went through. An excellent video, and thanks for sharing your fears and being so open. The force of nature is a marvelous thing not to be taken lightly.

[karlbaschal]

Glad you made it safely. Honestly, you could see the fright in your face. The assurance you made it through gave us some comfort. It takes a brave man to admit he made a mistake. And a wise man to learn the lesson. Glad you are safe.

[wendyrobertson]

As a born n raised Floridian I've been through so many storms in my 62 years that I wanted so badly to tell you to keep going inland until you couldn't go any more. The further inland you go, especially in mountainous areas the less wind damage you'll have. While I'm grateful that I decided to leave Florida almost a year after Irma, I still worry for my family, especially after Ian! I'm so glad you're ok but I know how freaked out you can get from the wind and rain

[noahcount]

As intense and nerve-wracking as your experience with Fiona was, Slim, you were fortunate to be traveling with your little Trillium OutBack travel trailer. Your former travel trailer, "Ol' Abner" the Aliner, would probably have been disintegrated by the high winds. Glad you made it through in good nick, and like you, my heart goes out to all who suffered damage from the wrath of Fiona.

[GenderSkins]

Having waited quite a few hurricanes and tornadoes out in Texas, I got a couple of tips for you slim. Invest in 4 to 8 trailer house tie downs, and some chains to attach to the tie downs. As well as have some anchor points added to your trailer frame. Second tip, don’t tow a trailer while in a storm, as you are safer just staying put in one spot. As the wind will always change directions in a storm. And no you are not stupid or crazy Slim, as you do not wanna be caught on the road pulling a trailer. So staying put as much as you did was the right thing. Tie downs even if they are ratchet straps will help keep you safe.

[MrLossiemouthrust]

This chap has to be one of the best of those who travel around by motorhome (RV) or trailer (caravan) and video their journey. He is not only a natural and engaging broadcaster, what he says is, actually, informative. If you contrast him with the those younger - wannabe T.V. stars types - who will do anything for publicity then he stands in an, even, brighter light
More power to your elbow, Slim Potatohead!

[judyrobinson]

What a frightening experience! Glad you made it home safely and hopefully no damage to camper or Jeep. You may have misjudged the storm, but used good judgment in filling up with gas, having power sources, food and turning the camper to face the storm. This one had me on the edge of my seat. Take care.

[celestryalcelestryal]

I love that you kept your sense of humor and irony through it. Having lived in Florida for 5 years, and through Super Storm Sandy in New Jersey, I am very aware of how a storm can change on a dime and the power of mother nature should never be underestimated. After many a storm I had no issue with lifting everything off the ground in my home, locking up, and getting out of dodge with the dogs and the birds and just driving in any direction that was going to get me out. With hurricane Michael gas stations were running out of gas, restaurants along the route were running out of food and there were no rooms to be found. You just have to be prepared and follow your instincts which is exactly what you did. Glad you are doing well.

[alkaiserkain]

I was always trying to find van lifers or trailer lifers videos that are in the middle of a storm to see how they prepared for it and how they saw it through and here you are making that content. Thank you for risking your life to do this. A lot of people would learn from your experiences and tips. Always stay safe in your travels.

[jlhenderson]

I'm glad this guy pulled through the storm in one piece, but watching him sit in his trailer while that horrific storm whirled around him kind of had a Blair-Witch/ horror-story feeling to it.

[Janer-]

I can only imagine the amount of stress you must have felt reliving this when editing. Thank you for going ahead and posting what must have been a tortuous night. I always appreciate your videos, and am so glad you got through this without blowing away! May you have some uneventful days and a good beer.

[pambaxter]

I always think about the ones who don't have any place... Even the sanctuary of a tiny camper like yours, to be during these amazing, awe inspiring acts of Mother Nature! 🫶🏼❤️😀

[nmrn]

You're a great storyteller. Your voice is calming, and the way you share your adventures is extremely informative and entertaining.

[dennisp]

Slim---you were SO fortunate to come thru Fiona, in your camper, unscathed. As you saw
afterwards, the damage was extensive. We live not far from where you overnighted and it was likely the best spot that you could have been in, despite how terrifying it was for you.
You were also lucky that that hydro pole by your camper did not come down. The camping gods were looking out for you. Wise decision to not put yourself in that position again.