I got a permit for the Lost Coast last year and actually liked having a planned spot. It meant no stress about finding camp at sunset. The rules keep the place quiet and clean, which I value more than random luck.

So when @ninabutler says your mileage may vary, what's usually the thing that changes? Is it the type of ingredient you start with, or maybe how long you let it sit? Seems like getting that tang just right would depend on a few big factors. Always tricky to nail a flavor on the first go. What would you say is the main variable that makes results so different for people?

My version of networking like skyler_nelson10 is just texting college friends to see who has a washer and dryer. It mostly leads to me buying them pizza for the chance to do a load of laundry in their basement, which is still cheaper than a hotel.

You said your few buckets never collect much, but maybe that's because of where you put them, @richard_king. If they are under a tiny part of the roof or a spot that doesn't drip much, they won't fill up. A bigger barrel right where the water pours off the gutter can get a good amount really fast. Sometimes it's not about having more buckets, it's about putting the one you have in the right place.

But can't those tiny watts add up over a long ride?