The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous is an annual gathering of nomads and like-minded individuals who live a mobile lifestyle in vehicles such as cars, vans, RVs, and buses. It provides an opportunity for community building, sharing resources, and learning about the nomadic lifestyle.
Whether you’re curious about vanlife, already living full-time on the road, or just exploring new possibilities, the Rubber Tramp Rendezvous is your chance to learn, laugh, and be part of something bigger. Come for the knowledge, stay for the community.
2026 Rubber Tramp Rendezvous Dates
WRTR: January 7th -9th (Wednesday – Friday)
RTR: January 10th – 15th (Saturday – Thursday)
EVENT LOCATION
Quartzsite, AZ
Town Park Baseball Field
The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous will run right before the Big Tent RV Show this year, which is between 1/17/2026 and 1/25/2026. The Big White Tent (RV and Trade Show) is a good place for Nomads to find seasonal jobs.
Be part of what makes the 2026 RTR happen by volunteering your time and energy to support the community. Whether you take one shift or several, your help keeps the event running smoothly, creates a welcoming atmosphere, and ensures that every nomad who attends has a positive, meaningful experience.
Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (RTR)
The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous is open to everyone, whether you travel in a car, van, SUV, RV, bus, or something uniquely your own. If it has wheels and you call it home, you’re welcome here.
This is a free event hosted by Homes On Wheels Alliance (HOWA) to help new and experienced nomads learn, connect, and thrive in community. There’s no registration or ticket required, just show up, find a spot to camp nearby, and join in.
What to Expect
The RTR features a full schedule of presentations, demonstrations, and discussions covering the essentials of nomadic life:
- Living safely and comfortably in your vehicle
- Solar power, electrical systems, and off-grid setups
- Budgeting and earning income on the road
- Finding free campsites and staying legal while boondocking
- Building community, safety, and self-reliance
You’ll also find resource tables, volunteer opportunities, and spaces to connect with others who share the same independent spirit.
Camping & Location
The RTR takes place each January in Quartzsite, Arizona, a hub for nomads during the winter season. Camping is dispersed in surrounding Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, allowing plenty of space for everyone. There are no hookups, so come self-contained with your own water, waste, and power setup. If you are not self-contained yet, please look into the many campgrounds in the area.
Pets
Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome, and you’ll see plenty of them around camp! Please be respectful of others, clean up after your pets, and keep them safe around traffic and crowds.
Cost
The RTR is completely free to attend. Your donations help HOWA keep this empowering event open to all, covering permits, porta potties, trash removal, sound equipment, and other logistics.
Join the Community
From first-time explorers to seasoned nomads, everyone’s welcome at the RTR. It’s a place to gain practical knowledge, swap stories, and find your people on the road. You might come to learn—but you’ll stay for the community.
Women’s Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (WRTR)
The Women’s Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (WRTR) is a free annual gathering hosted by Homes On Wheels Alliance (HOWA) that creates a safe, welcoming space for women living or aspiring to live the nomadic lifestyle.
Whether you travel solo, with friends, or are just beginning your journey, this event is designed to help you gain confidence, skills, and community on the road, surrounded by supportive women who’ve been where you are.
What to Expect
The WRTR offers workshops, demonstrations, and discussions focused on the needs and experiences of women travelers. Sessions often include:
- Solo travel safety and situational awareness
- Vehicle setup ideas for small rigs and budget builds
- Basic maintenance, repairs, and DIY upgrades
- Health, hygiene, and self-care on the road
- Building community and finding support networks
This is a time to learn, share, and connect, no judgment, no competition, just women helping women find their freedom on wheels.
Camping & Location
The WRTR takes place in Quartzsite, Arizona, shortly before the main RTR. Camping is dispersed in nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, with plenty of open space for vans, cars, RVs, and tents. All setups are welcome, come as you are, in whatever rig you have.
There are no hookups, so plan to be self-contained with your own water, waste, and power setup.
Pets
Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome, and you’ll meet plenty of other four-legged travelers! Please be considerate of others and keep pets under control at all times.
Cost
The WRTR is completely free to attend. Your donations help HOWA keep this empowering event open to all, covering permits, porta potties, trash removal, sound equipment, and other logistics.
Join the Community
The WRTR is more than an event, it’s a space for women to connect, grow, and discover strength through community. Whether you’re brand new to vanlife or a seasoned traveler, you’ll leave with new friendships, practical skills, and the confidence to live life on your own terms.
CLICK TO READ RTR FAQs
Coming Soon!
Watch some of the past presentations on HOWA’s YouTube Channel!
Sponsorship Opportunities
Some Past Sponsors Of The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous
RTR Mailing List
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