About Us

Welcome to The Nerdiest Wanderer

Your ultimate guide to exploring the world with curiosity, passion, and a touch of geeky flair!

Who We Are

At The Nerdiest Wanderer, we celebrate the spirit of adventure, the beauty of nature, and the joy of discovering new places. Founded by me, Andrea Nadjarian, a dedicated traveler, nature lover, and adventure enthusiast, our mission is to inspire and equip fellow wanderers with the best travel guides, gear, and tips.

 

 

My Journey and Inspiration for The Nerdiest Wanderer Store

The Nerdiest Wanderer began as a small escape—a way to capture the magic of my adventures during those whirlwind graduate school days. As I progressed through my Biology graduate program, I often found myself daydreaming about the open road, reminiscing about those epic road trips where I chased the sun across the American West in my trusty Equinox, which I lovingly transformed into a cozy camper, complete with a pull-out kitchen and a bed perfect for a Wanderer. The world was my playground, and every horizon held the promise of something new.

 

 

As graduation neared, my dreams expanded beyond the pages of my travel journal, and I set my sights on something bold. I built my dream Overland Rig: a Gladiator Rubicon, complete with a half Rhino Rack and Tepui tent, the ultimate adventure rig. This rugged beast became my partner in crime, taking me from Michigan’s winding roads to Florida’s sandy beaches, through the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains, and across the wild beauty of the Upper Peninsula and the islands in Lake Superior. And, of course, every step of the way, I was joined by Marley, my loyal Lab-Border Collie mix, whose boundless energy and spirit mirrored my own. With Marley by my side and the Rubicon beneath me, the world truly felt boundless, and every journey was a new chapter waiting to be written.

 


 

However, in the fall of 2023, life took a turn. My beloved Gladiator was stolen in Detroit, MI, and as if that wasn’t enough, I found myself grappling with a knee injury—a lingering reminder of a ski accident from early 2023. The injury, downplayed for far too long by those who I trusted for medical advice, leading it to eventually require surgery in the Summer of 2024. Suddenly, it felt like everything I cherished had been stripped away—my mobility, my freedom, my very identity as a Wanderer.

As I sat in recovery, unable to walk, I found myself yearning for the open road, longing for the adventures that once filled my days. The hardest part was being separated from Marley, my loyal companion, who had been such a big part of my travels, always by my side, bringing comfort and joy. That’s when inspiration struck. If I couldn’t explore the world myself, I could help others do it. Out of this period of reflection and determination, The Nerdiest Wanderer was reborn—not just as a travel account, but as a store, a tribute to the wanderlust spirit that still burns brightly within me. And because Marley was such an essential part of my travels, I felt inspired to curate a selection of pet gear, ensuring that fellow adventurers and their four-legged friends could explore the world together.

I poured my heart into building this store while I healed from surgery, carefully curating products that I hope will inspire and equip other adventurers. Now, as I relearn how to walk and prepare for vet school in a different country, I’m excited to embrace the next chapter of my journey. Fingers crossed I’ll be back on my feet in time for the adventure! And of course, Marley will be right by my side, ready to explore the world together once again.

 

What We Offer

Travel Guides & Tips: Our comprehensive travel guides are packed with insider tips, detailed itineraries, and recommendations for both popular and hidden destinations. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, our guides will help you make the most of your journey.

Gear & Accessories: We offer a curated selection of high-quality camping gear, travel accessories, and pet travel essentials. Our products are chosen for their reliability, functionality, and affordability, ensuring you're well-prepared for any adventure.

Travel with Pets: Traveling with your furry friends? Our practical advice, tips, and product recommendations make pet-friendly travel smooth and enjoyable.

Inspiration & Stories: Follow my personal stories and adventures, learn from my experiences, and get inspired to embark on your own explorations. Our stories celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the joy found in nature and travel.

Our Vision

At The Nerdiest Wanderer, we believe in the transformative power of travel. Our vision is to create a community of curious and adventurous souls who share a love for nature, travel, and lifelong learning. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, we're here to guide, support, and inspire you every step of the way.

Connect with Us

Stay connected with us through our social media channels, and don’t forget to check out our blog for the latest updates, tips, and stories. Follow my adventures on Instagram @TheNerdiestWanderer and join our community of fellow wanderers.

Happy travels and wander wisely!