Some people choose to embrace a less than traditional lifestyle. Not everyone is looking to own a house in the suburbs, drive a nice car, or work 9-5 Monday through Friday. While there are a number of "subcultures" out there, the one I've seen the most of (and may or may not be a part of) is that of the dirtbag. While they're certainly not the flashiest or most luxurious of people, they may just be the coolest people you'll ever meet. There's a lot of similarities between your average Joe and a grade A dirtbag, so these don't necessarily mean that anyone who exhibits any of these characteristics truly is one; with that being said, here are a few indicators that whether you realize it or not, you just might be a dirtbag.
1. You climb, kayak, mountain bike, or backpack.
Oftentimes, these sports act as a gateway to the dirtbag culture— these alt-athletes tend to appreciate the outdoors (and being dirty in them) more than anyone else out there. Everyone knows people who like outdoorsy sports tend to be a bit of a different breed, anyway; who else wants to climb up massive rock walls, paddle through scary rapids, ride their bike up and down massive hills, or walk through the woods for miles on end carrying everything they need to survive?
2. You have a pet.
I only say "pet" and not "pets" because everyone knows dirtbags typically can't afford to own more than one pet (or have the room or time for them). You get bonus points if your pet is named after something outdoorsy; for example, a good friend of mine's pooch is named "Dagger", after a popular brand of whitewater kayaks—total dirtbag move.
3. Cheap meals are the best meals.
This one may seem obvious, but allow me to explain. Ramen noodles? Not all that. I almost never eat Ramen noodles when I'm at home, or at school, or just about anywhere other than the middle of the woods— I'd almost go as far as to say they're hard to stomach. With that being said, have you ever had a hot bowl of ramen noodles after a 10-mile hike, a long day on the river, a butt-kicker of a mountain bike ride, etc.? It's the most beautiful thing in the world, especially if it's out of a jetboil or similar portable mini-stove. Gourmet is what the dirtbag makes it.
4. Most of your vacations are spent in the mountains.
The beach is cool and all, but if you're a real dirtbag, odds are most of your vacation time is spent in the mountains. In addition, it's pretty likely you'd choose a tent over a condo or beach house.
5. You're an environmentalist.
It doesn't matter how many of these characteristics you exhibit— if you don't take care of the natural environment around you, you aren't a real dirtbag. It's only natural that those who spend most of their time in the outdoors have a deeper sense of appreciation for it.
6. Shoes are always optional.
While in more traditional society this may not be the case (though probably due to other's' expectations), dirtbags often love being barefooted whenever the situation allows. Strolling by the river, taking a dip in the lake, playing frisbee in an open field—whatever the case may be, one of the most liberating feelings is that of the earth between your toes. If they're somewhere being shoeless is inappropriate, catch them in some Chacos, Tevas, Birkenstocks, or just about any other open-toed shoe, because "shoes are just foot prisons, man".
7. You have a dirty car.
Nalgene in the floorboard, gear in the backseat, empty Gatorade bottles throughout, perhaps even a bag (or bags) of fast food trash that hasn't been disposed of yet—dirtbags aren't typically the tidiest of people. On the outside, who knows how dirty one's car may be from riding down dusty old gravel mountain roads; it adds character, though, am I right?
8. A van is your home.
Is Van Life the life for you? Is your home a 10 square foot box that you can drive around wherever your heart so desires? There's only one type of person who could make a permanent residence out of a van, and it's a dirtbag. To some, it sounds crazy, but to others, it'd be a dream come true. Plus, who needs a real shower when you could just drive to the lake?
9. Nature is your shower.
If you've ever used a dip in a river or lake as an excuse for skipping out on a shower, odds are you're a dirtbag, plain and simple.
10. You listen to the "Grateful Dead".
"Grateful Dead" and jam bands, in general, can be enjoyed by all with their "good vibe" tunes, but for some reason, they seem to be especially appealing to dirtbags. Maybe it's their easy-going way of life that presents itself through their music— that's something many a dirtbag can relate to.
11. You frequently smell like a bonfire (and love it).
Are quite a few of your nights spent huddled around a bonfire with some of your favorite people? Do your clothes frequently smell like burning wood? Would you choose that over cologne any day of the week? If so, you're probably a dirtbag.
12. You like bugs.
This may be the most polarizing point of discussion in this whole article. Not to say that if you don't like bugs that you aren't a dirtbag, but it always seems that dirtbags are typically the ones less bothered by spiders, insects and other creepy critters. After all, it's their earth too.