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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Full-Time RV Living: Complete Guide Must Read!
Anyone who likes adventure and excitement will have considered whether they could live in an RV.
It gives a person the freedom and flexibility often lacking in home living. Living in an RV can open your senses to new experiences and allow you to do the things you have always dreamed of.
- RV living: Year-round choice over homes.
- Freedom, flexibility, travel in the RV lifestyle.
- Challenges: Maintenance, space, and weather issues arise.
- Mobility: Move anywhere, any time.
- Cost Efficiency: Lower expenses than homes.
- Simple Living: Embrace a minimalist lifestyle.
- Limited Space: Challenge, especially for families.
- Maintenance: Regular upkeep, repairs, and essential tasks.
- Weather: Exposed living impacts conditions significantly.
However, there are also many adjustments that a person would have to contend with. This guide will show you the basics of full-time RV living and the lifestyle adjustments you must make.
We have packed this guide with exclusive tips and included some examples of those who have made a success out of it. Alongside essential maintenance tips, we show you the best ways to make money on the road to ensure the lifestyle remains sustainable.
Keep reading to discover how you can make full-time RV living a reality and also get the answers to almost any question.
What’s it like full-time RV living
There are many things to consider when living in a full-time RV. Some of these are obvious, such as variable costs. However, others, such as maintenance, can be more difficult to figure out. It is important to remember that full-time RV living presents a massive difference to the day-to-day. The guide below details everything you must consider when living in a full-time RV.
Full-time RV living consists of adventure and new experiences. It provides you with a chance to embrace the new. However, it doesn’t require you to give up home comforts.
Modern RV living is so sophisticated that, in many ways, it can be compared to traditional living. There are, of course, other considerations that you will need to take into account, such as jobs, kids, and registering a permanent address.
However, US states are more friendly towards this lifestyle than ever before, which means that it is easier than it has ever been to pack up your things and embrace the full-time RV lifestyle.
How much does it cost to live in an RV
The costs are among the most important factors when living in a full-time RV. These costs will depend on your lifestyle and the RV you choose.
The general range of RV living can be $1300-$3200+ a month. This shows how the differentiation in factors can significantly impact costs. However, there are some available types of expenses to keep in mind. You can see the breakdown of some of the most essential costs below.
Cost of the RV
The most significant initial cost will be the RV itself. This cost can range widely and determine whether you pay outright or take a loan.
Many people choose to take out a loan since the cost can be substantial. Therefore, you must account for the initial cost and loan repayments. You must be sure that whichever you choose to fund your RV is sustainable and affordable. You can read our guide to the best RV loan providers here.
Rent
Although RV living allows you to be free, this does not mean you can live freely anywhere. Unless, of course, you decide to try your hand at Boondocking. You will most likely stay in a campground for most of the time, and these come with rental fees that you must consider.
The fees for campgrounds can depend on location and the amount of time you intend to reside. Additionally, the time of year can also influence the cost. The busy seasons will usually cost more, and you can get a better rate during the quieter seasons.
Your choice of campgrounds is important since rent will be a consistent expense for which you must account. The rent of campgrounds can also cover utilities such as internet and electricity. It is worth researching different campgrounds to understand prices before you embark on your journey.
Gas
Another core cost will be gas. Once again, this is another highly variable cost, depending on your vehicle and how much you use it. This will depend upon how much you want to travel in your RV.
Some people will stay on a site for months, whereas others will be on the road weekly. It would be best to plan for the months ahead to ensure you can afford the gas required for your journeys.
Insurance
You will need to consider both health insurance and vehicle insurance. Unless you have a job covering health insurance, you must pay out of pocket.
The cost will depend on your current health condition and the required coverage. Typical health insurance for healthy adults can range from $100-$250 per month. You will also need to insure your RV. This cost is usually reasonably manageable, and you can expect to pay around $550 annually to insure your RV.
General Utilities and Groceries
There will be certain general costs that are unavoidable. This includes your weekly groceries and fees for utilities.
Unlike home living, utility costs will be far lower. Your primary expense will be propane. The amount you spend will depend on the temperature outside and the regularity you cook. You will most likely need to refill the tank once every two months.
A 20-pound tank costs around $20. Other utilities include electricity and internet at your campground. However, these are usually covered in the rental cost. Your grocery bills will depend on the type of food you buy. Fresh and organic food will increase these costs; however, home cooking is still considerably cheaper than eating out.
Repairs
At some point, you will require a repair of some sort. The cost of repairs can vary. However, it is essential to set some money aside to be prepared for the prospect of breakdowns. Keeping this money ready rather than a repair blowing your budget is always good. We will discuss RV repairs and maintenance in more depth later in the article.
General Lifestyle Costs
The RV lifestyle allows you to change what you do daily drastically. This means that you can explore more experiences. The costs associated with these experiences will depend on the type of activities that you engage in. Therefore, the costs for this can vary considerably based on what your lifestyle will consist of.
It is vital to balance work and play when living in a full-time RV. It can be easy to overly focus on one of these aspects, which can be unsustainable. It is essential to have a steady work routine. However, it is also crucial to have regular work to ensure that you can adequately de-stress. The whole point of full-time RV living is to experience new things and live a more accessible lifestyle.
You’ll also want to consider some essential RV accessories to make your time on the road easier.
Budgeting Tips
It is essential to have a budget when living in a full-time RV. It is straightforward to rack up the costs. There are many ways to live cheaply in an RV without sacrificing necessities. It is crucial to be aware of how you can limit your spending. This will allow your experience to be far less stressful.
Choose Cheaper Campground Locations
One of your main fixed costs will come from campgrounds. You can keep these costs down by picking locations wisely. If you reside in the US, you will find that the West Coast tends to have far cheaper campgrounds. Additionally, long-term stays tend to offer more value for money.
It is essential to research different campgrounds before you set off correctly. There can be significant discounts for booking early compared to paying nearer the move-in date. It would be best to avoid busy seasons to save on cash. The full-time RV living lifestyle gives you more room to maneuver with dates. This allows you to plan on staying in the cheaper months.
Plan Your Long-Term Route
There is an element of freedom with RV living. However, that doesn’t mean that you should scrap any planning. Planning a route for weeks or months can save a lot of money.
This will allow you to see the sights you want and have the experience you want in a more budget-friendly manner. You will also have to drive less, which saves on gas.
It is essential to research your route properly rather than traveling without plans. It would be best to ask for advice from friends who have been on the route and are experienced RV travelers. They can provide exclusive tips and guide you on the best way to reach your chosen destinations. You can also utilize RV trip planners to help plan your journey better.
Cook Meals
It can be tempting to rely on takeout food. It is more convenient. However, the costs can quickly rack up. It is far more cost-effective to cook meals and leave eating out occasionally.
You should invest in a recipe book that will show you how to cook easy meals that are both nutritious and delicious. You can save a lot of money by learning how to cook. It is also far healthier for you and everyone else traveling with you. A cookbook can be used on an e-reader to save space.
Stick to a Budget
It is also crucial to stick to a budget. You don’t have to be exact. However, you should know how much to spend every month. This will help you to come on top of your finances. Additionally, it would be best if you also tracked your spending so that you can see where your money is going.
It is easy to lose track of finances on the road, so it is crucial to remain organized. This will allow your lifestyle to be sustainable, and you can get the most out of your money. You should closely track your income and spending and record this data on a spreadsheet. This is an easy method for staying on top of your finances.
Full-Time RV Living with Kids
The RV lifestyle would seem to suit single people without many obligations. Therefore, those with children may feel that full-time RV living would not do them. However, there are several ways that full-time RV living can be successful for an entire family. There are some factors to consider if you are thinking of a full-time RV living with kids.
One of these involves keeping a set routine for children. This includes mealtimes and sleep. Most children thrive from a set routine, and it can be harder to keep one when dealing with the freedom of full-time RV living. It is, therefore, essential to take steps to ensure that kids have a sense of order. This will ensure that their physical and mental health is unaffected by the drastic lifestyle changes.
Alongside basic housing and feeding, the other major factor involved will be education. Your child will not be able to attend school full-time. Therefore, there will need to be some homeschooling involved. You must create a homeschooling program that works with your full-time RV living lifestyle.
An RV creates some difficulties compared to homeschooling in a typical home. However, it is still very manageable. The benefit of an RV is that you can provide a real-life education through hands-on experiences. These cannot be found in the typical classroom. The intense life experience that your child gains from full-time RV living will benefit them throughout their lives.
Regarding homeschooling, you must be efficient with the space you use. You must adequately plan courses to ensure that you will be able to teach your kids properly. Traveling can be extremely tiring, and kids will feel this.
This makes it even more critical for them to get regular sleep. You should contact the advice of other RV’ers with children to get a clearer idea of what you should expect regarding educating on the road.
Socialization is vital for children. While full-time RV living, kids will not have the same amount of contact with their peers since they are not in school. Interactions with other children are a vital part of development. Therefore, you must ensure that your children get the correct interaction with other children their age.
This cannot be easy when traveling. Therefore, planning some social activities while on the road is crucial. You should find locations where your children can interact with their peers. This will allow them to pick up vital social skills.
Another thing to remember with children is always to have spare clothing available wherever you are. You cannot predict when a change may be required, and being prepared means you can deal with accidents far better. Therefore, you should bring a complete change of clothing for every child.
Your kids’ diet is also essential. It would be best to minimize eating out and instead focus on nutritious home-cooked meals. Additionally, these should be supplemented with healthy snacks and vitamin boosts. Snacks will keep your kids happy during your travels and are a cheap way to remain full between meals. Vitamins will boost your kids’ immune systems and reduce their chances of illness.
Your family will be exposed to many new pathogens and environments, making it crucial to remain healthy.
Finally, it would be best if you used the opportunity of full-time RV living to find new playgrounds. Children love finding new spots to play, and by traveling, you can ensure that your children have a fun new place to play. These free places provide an easy way to keep your children entertained and active on your travels. Playgrounds also provide an excellent opportunity for your children to interact with others their age.
Full-Time RV Living Tips
Below, we list some of the essential tips for full-time RV living. These will help you start your RV adventure and overcome some of the initial hurdles that can arise.
Packing Tips
The first part of your RV journey will involve packing. Knowing if you are packing too much or too little can be difficult. It is essential to have the basic items with you. However, it is just as crucial not to go overboard with packing.
The first tip is to avoid bringing items with you which are readily available on the road. These will take up space, and bringing them along is unnecessary. The exception to this tip is if the items are essential for you.
Otherwise, you can make do with buying them on your travels. It is easy to overpack, but remember that forgotten items can always be re-bought. It is more difficult to offload items that are not essential. A cramped RV is not ideal for anyone.
You can also bring home comforts that make your living situation easier. These are items that may not be necessary. However, they may carry high sentimental value. The road can get lonely sometimes, and these items can reinvigorate a sense of nostalgia and make you feel at home in your RV.
If you are on the fence about packing these items, you should remember that usefulness in terms of emotional comfort is still essential.
The clothing you pack will also be necessary. You should make sure that you have clothes for all weather conditions, which can be tailored depending on the type of area you intend to travel to. You should always be prepared for a rainy day or adverse weather conditions. The weather can quickly change, which is something to remember.
There will not always be opportunities to buy new clothes quickly once you are on the road. You should find solid garments that work well with multiple aspects. This is a ‘capsule wardrobe,’ which should be filled with flexible essential items.
Most of your clothes should be stapled pieces that can be easily worn and always in style. This will save you valuable space. Regarding kitchen appliances, you should bring the minimum, and remember that sink space will be limited. Dishes will be washed after use, which means there isn’t a requirement for many spares.
Set Yourself A Departure Date
This next tip may seem pretty obvious. However, it can help tremendously to set an exact departure date. It is easy to assume that you will be a full-time RV living some time in the future; however, without specifying a date, it becomes easy to become unorganized.
Setting a date means you are committed to the new lifestyle, allowing you to focus on your preparation correctly. It prepares for more urgent. Commitment allows you to take your move into RV living seriously and means you can plan for the change much better.
Create Manageable To-Do-Lists
The jump to a full-time RV living lifestyle will require many tasks. This can get overwhelming for some, and it can be hard to keep track of everything that needs to be done. You can separate large tasks into manageable to-do lists. These lists will help you remain organized with your move into full-time RV living. These to-do lists include renting or selling your home, hosting a garage sale, researching campgrounds, canceling utilities, and much more.
The use of lists can make the transition far more manageable and reduce the stress of the process. Your to-do list will be unique based on your requirements. Crossing off tasks and becoming ever closer to your new lifestyle of full-time RV living can be satisfying.
Consider Joining an RV Club
Many clubs and organizations are designed to help those who are RV living. They can provide excellent advice and offer a sense of community. Additionally, they provide exclusive knowledge of the lifestyle from highly experienced people. This can help you to avoid basic mistakes and to make the most out of your new lifestyle.
These clubs usually have social media pages and forums to view and discuss related topics. The advantage of clubs is that they can help your initial transition and be a valuable source of knowledge once your full-time RV living adventure begins. RV clubs can also provide exclusive discounts on campgrounds. One such RV club is Good Sam, which comes highly rated.
Make Time to Say Goodbye to Family and Friends
The rush of transitioning to a full-time RV living lifestyle can mean you forget you will be leaving behind close friends and family. Your new life will mean that you will see these people far less often, and it also means that they deserve a goodbye.
This sense of closure can be beneficial for both parties involved, and it can help to ease the transition. It is vital to plan these meetings well before your departure date. This will remove the stress of needing to make last-minute arrangements, and it ensures that you can say goodbye correctly.
You should also find a way to remain in touch with your friends, and this can be done by starting a blog detailing your travels or sharing photographs on social media websites such as Instagram. Your friends and family will be interested in seeing details about your adventures.
Consider Paperless/E-Billing Solutions
Mail is still essential; however, there has been an increased emphasis on paperless solutions in recent years. You can now receive many vital letters in the form of emails. This is a convenient way to reduce the mail you must have forwarded.
You can keep yourself organized with your billing by switching to paperless solutions. They ensure you can pay bills on time without needing to receive them physically. We will explain later on in this article how you can receive physical mail for items that cannot be obtained through e-billing.
Focus on Communication
After you have made the transition into full-time RV living, it is crucial to remember to focus on communication. Tensions can quickly arise in an enclosed space, and it is essential to develop good communication habits early on. This allows disputes to be resolved promptly, meaning everyone can have the best experience.
The first few months are vital, so it is crucial to focus on good communication. This applies to relationships with partners and kids if they are also there. Everyone should be able to express themselves and have their opinions heard.
Get To Know the Ins and Outs of your RV
Your RV will be your new permanent home, so you should get to know it properly. This means that you should read all of the manuals provided for the RV. These can contain build sheets, fuse box guides, and detailing of every component. They will include helpful information that is specific to your RV model.
Additionally, you can find detailed information online concerning your RV. You can also find user experiences that can help you understand better. A good understanding will allow you to deal with situations faster and more effectively. Nobody wants to be frantically searching for the correct fuse box when it rains outside or at night.
Keep Everything Organized
Space is restricted in an RV, making it essential to have designated areas to keep your items. This makes it easy to find but also means that space is used more efficiently. It means you can easily pack and unpack items on the road.
You should develop a system that is easy to understand and agreed upon by everyone living in the RV. This can make the lifestyle far more comfortable since time is not wasted looking for things.
Expect the Unexpected
It’s a cliche, but it holds for full-time RV living. You will have many new situations in this lifestyle and must be prepared to leave your comfort zone. Preparation can allow you to deal with things better and in a way that will minimize the stress of RV living.
It would be best if you were always prepared for the worst. This means knowing how to change a flat tire and developing an emergency plan. It means you should have all your essentials with easy access to prepare for extreme situations such as floods or medical emergencies.
On the road, you may not always have a phone signal, which makes it vital to remain prepared. These circumstances are rare, but their threat is magnified on the road, so it is crucial always to stay alert and ready to face the unexpected. It would be best if you always remained flexible in your approach. It’s worthwhile investing in roadside assistance; you can read more about our favorite one here.
Be Sure to Enjoy Your Journey
It can sometimes seem as though the stress is too much to handle. In these instances, you should never forget why you have chosen the lifestyle. It is important to remember to enjoy the journey actively. There are so many experiences to behold in this lifestyle, and this is something you should remember.
You should keep a fund aside that primarily focuses on getting involved in fun activities. This will allow your journey to remain pleasurable for all involved. Keeping a budget will make the transition far more accessible and mean you can make the most of your new experience.
Best RV Brands for Full-Time Living
There are many RV brands; however, not all will be suited for full-time living. Below, we present the best RV brands that come out on top of all the criteria for full-time living.
Coachmen
One of the highest-rated RV brands is Coachmen. They have built a reputation for creating high-class RVs that combine form and function. Customers have become fond of the high functionality and simplicity of the RVs. The following experience is representative of the consensus.
A family who owns a coachman decided to share their experience. They were regular campers who wanted to take their hobby to the next level. They purchased a Coachmen Viking to pursue their travels.
Their old RV did not have the size or weight for full-time living. It was ideal for their winter travels across Canada. They later decided to upgrade to a Coachmen Apex Nano. This was slightly larger and offered them a roomier experience alongside smoother driving.
The trailer allowed the family to deal well with wintery conditions.
They learned about airflow within the trailer and soon adapted to the conditions. They thoroughly enjoy the camping experience and have grown fond of the Coachmen due to its simplicity and reliability.
Overall, Coachmen RVs are highly suitable for full-time RVing due to their excellent build quality, simplicity, and flexibility for various conditions.
You can read more about coachmen here.
Keystone
Another famous manufacturer of RV vehicles is Keystone. They are a brand well-known in America for creating all types of RVs suited for many purposes.
Their “Montana” model provides an RV highly suited for full-time living in all weather conditions. They have an exclusive “four seasons living package,” enabling you to have a luxurious experience regardless of outside conditions. Customers have highly rated heated holding tanks and valves.
The insulated floor lines have also allowed customers to feel at home even in wintery conditions.
There are many floor plans, which was a big hit with customers as it allowed them to customize the RV to their requirements. The 41 feet of living space was roomy, meaning traveling in the RV was a fantastic experience. The large refrigerator also provided a tremendous opportunity for storing ingredients for cooking meals on the road.
Overall, Keystone represents high class and elegance. This specific experience shows how RV living doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice home comforts. It also shows how the outside weather does not have to hinder your new lifestyle.
You can read more about Keystone here.
Airstream
Technology has allowed RVs to develop quickly, and they now come equipped with highly innovative features compared to a few decades ago. This can make the transition from home life to RV life far smoother. Airstream is one of the best examples of a company using technology.
Many customers have been impressed by the use of technology in applying modern features. These features are easy to use and provide an excellent experience.
The Airstream Classic is an excellent example of how far technology has come. The smooth lines are immediately noticeable and give the RV a sleek, modern impression. The close attention to detail is evident throughout the design and functionality of the RV.
There are a ton of innovative technology features that are designed to make your life easy. This includes a fair few USB outlets available for all your charging needs. It also includes radio, Bluetooth, support for streaming, and an excellent projection TV.
This is an RV that understands the modern need for fast and simple connectivity. Customers have noted that these simple features greatly impacted their day-to-day living. The Airstream app gives you complete control, making it easy to control lighting, keeping tabs on tank levels, and much more.
The Airstream is a fantastic example of how far RV technology has come and shows why a full-time lifestyle does not mean you have to give up on using your gadgets. It shows how modern life and full-time RV living are perfectly compatible.
You can read more about Airstream here.
Basic Essential Maintenance
All RVs will require some basic essential maintenance. Ensuring that your RV remains maintained and in the best condition is crucial. This will keep it working efficiently and reduce the likelihood of needing major expensive repairs down the line. On-going maintenance will always be required in a full-time living situation. However, it does not need to be difficult or time-consuming.
Tire Maintenance
Good Sam Tire & Wheel Protection Plan – Prices as low as $79.99 per year!
The tires are one of the most crucial parts of your RV to keep in check. They will go through a lot on your journey, and taking excellent care of them is essential. Firstly, you should always ensure you drive with the correct tire pressure. This means you must weigh your rig to determine the optimum pressure. You can look at our review of the best tire pressure monitoring systems here.
Adding extra items can significantly affect the weight, changing the pressure requirement. It is essential to constantly have the tire pressure at the correct setting for the current load on the RV. It would be best if you kept your tires well-maintained and clean. Additionally, they should always be kept covered when parked. We’ve written about the best RV tire covers here.
Downtime Maintenance
There will be prolonged periods when the RV is not used to travel. In these instances, it can be tempting to ignore any maintenance. However, some steps remain to ensure your RV stays in the best condition.
Additionally, leaving it in the same state can be damaging, depending on your rig type. One of the first things to be aware of is the drying out of the natural oil in your tires, which can cause them to degrade. The gas can also break down or even develop algae in certain conditions.
Additionally, RV generators need to be regularly exercised. You can add a fuel stabilizer to protect your RV. You should adequately cover your tires and dust your internal seals to stop them from sticking. These measures will keep your RV in the best condition, even during downtime.
Roadside Assistance
We thoroughly recommend Good Sam Roadside Assistance.
Another critical aspect of maintaining your RV involves taking out comprehensive roadside insurance. This will allow you to get help if you get stuck or stranded. It gives you peace of mind and means you do not have to worry.
Tow trucks can be expensive; getting quality roadside assistance is good value. Big rigs can often cost a ton due to the specialist equipment required. Many assistance plans are available depending on your RV type, starting from around $150 annually. We recommend going with a company with experience in RVs, such as Good Sam.
How to make money on the road
The freedom afforded by RV living also applies to employment. It means that you will have to survive without the stability of a typical 9-5. There are several money-making routes that you can explore to ensure that your lifestyle remains financially sustainable.
Freelancing
The most common way to make money on the road is through freelancing. This is where someone works for themselves. Freelancing has become far more popular in recent years due to technological advances. Many tasks and jobs can be done with a laptop and an internet connection.
This makes freelancing an excellent way to make money on the road. Many freelancing sectors include graphic design, web development, copywriting, full-stack development, and more.
If you have a valuable skill, then you may be able to make good money through freelancing. However, it can be very competitive, and you must treat it as a business. Anyone thinking of supporting themselves through freelancing should establish themselves before jumping to RV living. The money from freelancing can be erratic, and sometimes, it can seem more straightforward than it is.
Blogging
Another way that you can make money on the road is through blogging. Many people are interested to see or read about exciting adventures. There are plentiful opportunities for people to blog about their travels. This can be done through blog posts on a website or video blogs on YouTube. You can build up your blogging profile with exciting stories of your adventures. This can then be monetized through advertisers. The advantage of blogging is that it doesn’t feel like a job since you will recount your experiences.
It is essential to think through a blogging plan and not expect too much money in the early stages. It can take a while before blogging becomes meaningfully profitable. However, it is worth it to build a blog because it is far less time-intensive than other options, and it naturally fits in with an RV lifestyle.
Odd jobs
Another way to pick up extra funds on the roads is through working odd jobs. These can vary in nature, and most of them are short-term. This suits the RV lifestyle as it can be a way to pick up extra cash and interact with the locals in your travels. You can pick the odd jobs that suit your skillset, as there is usually a variety.
The number of odd jobs available in a location will depend on demand, and you are likely to have more luck in busier urban areas rather than remote locations. You can ask around for odd jobs, and you can also make use of job websites to find short-term opportunities. You may find excellent seasonal opportunities that provide a good cash boost for your travels.
Remote Working
Remote working is the most sustainable way to make money on the road. This is similar to freelancing, as you can work from any location. However, the critical difference is that you will work for a company.
This will give you extra stability; however, it will also mean your schedule will be less flexible. There are many remote working opportunities available for a variety of job roles. However, most of them do require proficiency.
There is a trend for an increase in these roles, which is good news for those planning to work remotely to fund their RV lifestyle. You can either apply for a new remote working position or ask your current company if any roles exist. Some companies are happy to accommodate remote working for their employees.
However, it will depend on whether the job can be done similarly from a remote location. Therefore, you should remember that not all positions are suitable for remote work.
For more methods, look at our article on how to make money on the road.
Full-Time RV Living FAQ
Below, we answer some of people’s most common questions about full-time RV living.
Do you need an RV extended warranty when traveling full-time in an RV?
Yes, an extended warranty is an excellent idea. Not only will this provide peace of mind if you’re traveling in a used RV, but it can also save you a ton of money if repairs are required.
You can check out our guide to the best RV extended warranties here.
How do you prepare for full-time RV living?
There are a few ways that you can prepare for full-time RV living. These will allow you to familiarise yourself with the lifestyle and let you see whether it would suit you. The first thing that you should do is run several test runs. In these runs, you should closely stimulate the full-time RV living experience you intend to have.
These could involve living in campgrounds that you intend to visit. It would be best if you did these test runs with everyone who will be involved, such as spouses and children. Test runs will provide excellent preparation for full-time RV living.
Where Can I Park While Living in an RV?
One common question is where to park an RV. This will require significant consideration since the lifestyle will depend on where your RV can be parked. The most common place to park will be a campground. You will usually spend most of your time here, and your RV will be kept secure.
Many facilities, such as electricity and internet access, will also be available. You can also check out RV parks. Alternatively, you can park in truck stops while on the go. As long as you observe the specific rules of these stops, then you should be good to go for overnight parking. We recommend using https://www.overnightrvparking.com to help you locate free overnight RV parking; it has the most concise list we’ve come across.
How do you winterize an RV for winter living?
The seasons and weather conditions can have a significant impact on RV living. You can adequately winterize an RV for ideal winter living in a few ways. Firstly, you will need to pick up some essential parts.
These include RV antifreeze, water heater by-pass kit, cleaning wand, water pump converter kit, and essential hand tools. You should drain the freshwater holding tank and drain the water heater. Using the wand to clean out the holding tanks would be best. You can use the hand tools to remove drain plugs. Finally, pouring some antifreeze down each drain would be best.
How to get health insurance while living in an RV?
Health insurance can be more complicated without a full-time address or employment. The good news is that there are specific plans tailored to RV living. You will first need to establish residency in a state and then look at the plans on offer. It is easy to get covered even as a full-timer.
Many full-timers tend to be freelancers or self-employed, meaning they must enroll. If you work remotely for an employer, you should ask them for further information about health insurance.
Do I need an address when living in an RV?
Many people wonder whether they can live long-term without a registered address. An address is required for many basics and essentials. Even campgrounds and RV parks can sometimes ask for a US address. You need an address for voting and official tax records, making it mandatory. However, it is simple to set up an address even while living in a full-time RV.
You can register as a ‘domicile’ in any US state. You should choose the state you will most likely spend most of your time in. Once you set up your domicile, you will have your permanent address. There are many services that you can use to set up an address.
How to dump your black tank if you are living in your RV?
Another common query involves the dumping of the black tank. This is crucial because sewage contains many pathogens and harmful substances. It would be best always to use appropriate hand gloves when handling the black tank. You will need a rinse hose for the black water flush and bleach wipes for sanitizing. Additionally, you will need a hand sanitizer to clean up afterward.
It would be best if you did not dump tanks that are below ⅔ full. You must take the RV to a dump station and attach the hose to the hole. Then, you must follow the correct procedure and empty your tank. It is essential to clamp the sewer hose properly.
How Do You Get Mail While Full-Time RV Living?
Another tricky problem to tackle when RV is living is dealing with mail. It can seem not easy to receive mail while living in a full-time RV. One of the best ways to receive packages is to use Amazon Prime. You can easily order items delivered in 2 days directly to your campground.
The vast majority of campgrounds accept these parcels, and they have an accessible address to enter in the delivery details. However, it would be best if you also collected important mail such as payment checks and bills. You can also have packages or mail redirected to any close postal office. We recommend using e-billing and e-payment wherever possible, as this is far more convenient than physical mail. Although, for the times when mail is crucial, the local postal office will have you covered.
How do you keep smells away while living in an RV?
It will be essential to keep your RV hygienic and clean. Long-term living can result in bad smells, negatively impacting your experience. However, there are some ways that you can live in an RV and keep any smells away.
One way to keep smells out is by installing a sewer vent. This helps eliminate the odors that can come through due to wind pushing down the road. Kitchen and bathroom drains are another cause of odd smells. You can prevent these by mixing baking soda with water and draining as required.
Carpet stains are another source of bad smells. It is essential to clear up all stains as soon as they appear. Alternatively, you can replace your carpeting with laminate flooring, which is easier to manage. Another type of smell can originate when your RV has not been used. This can be a stale smell due to heat trapped in the RV. This requires deep cleaning of every surface in your RV.
You can also invest in vent covers to prevent these smells from forming. Overall, it is vital to have proper ventilation to ensure that odors do not linger.
How Many Clothes Do You Need for RV Living?
Another critical consideration for full-time RV living will be clothing. It is essential to keep your possessions minimal. However, it is also crucial to have enough clothes for long-term living. Therefore, you will need the correct balance. You should not bring any clothes that you do not regularly wear.
As a general guideline, it probably does not belong in your RV if you have not worn something within the last six months. Buying too much stuff is one common mistake that newbies tend to make. It can be easy to overestimate how many clothes you need.
Space is vital in an RV, so it is crucial not to waste it on clothes that won’t be worn. You must downsize your wardrobe and bring a capsule wardrobe full of flexible essentials. A general guideline is to have around a week’s worth of clothing.
What Gear Do You Need for Full-Time RV Living?
There is also specialist gear that you will require for full-time RV living. These items can help you make the most of your full-time RV living. This is gear that is highly recommended by families and individuals who are currently embarking on the lifestyle.
Portable BBQ
Every long-term motorhome needs a reliable BBQ. This allows you to make delicious meals on the road, and the portability of newer BBQs makes them a perfect fit for most RVs. Additionally, they are also reliable and durable. This makes them an ideal fit for full-timers needing a BBQ that won’t disappoint them.
Packing Cubes
One of the most significant challenges of full-time RV living is remaining organized. It cannot be easy to stay consistent. However, a packing cube is one device that can help keep your RV clean and tidy. They are essential travel items that many RVers cannot live without. They keep clothing clean, wrinkle-free, and organized super compactly. This means that you can use your space more efficiently. They can also be used for non-clothing items such as power cords. They are a fantastic solution for keeping things neat in your RV.
Auto-Vacuum Cleaner
Space is at a premium, so tools must be light and compact. Luckily, even vacuums are now available in smaller sizes. You should not be fooled by equating size to power, however. The latest auto-vacuum cleaners are super handy and plug into your cigarette lighter. This makes them essential for clearing waste and keeping your living area spotless. Additionally, for those with pets in an RV, these vacuums are fantastic for removing hairs.
Espresso Maker
There’s nothing quite like a freshly brewed cup of coffee in the morning. This is a straightforward pleasure that you shouldn’t need to give up. Compact coffee pots provide an easy and flexible way to get your morning dose. You can use these close espresso makers on gas or electric stoves. Furthermore, many will even work on open fires and BBQs. This makes fitting in a delicious coffee cup easy to start your day.
E-Reader/Tablet
The road will give you time to think and reflect. It can be a great time to get through your reading list, and instead of carrying physical books, you can purchase an e-reader such as Kindle. These inexpensive devices give you access to many titles that will keep you entertained.
Additionally, you can keep cookbooks, travel guides, references, and much more safely on the Kindle. E-readers provide a portable way to stay organized. If you need more functionality, invest in an iPad or Android Tablet.
They also function as e-readers, giving you access to web browsers and applications. A tablet or e-reader is a fantastic accessory to have on the road. It is full of functionality and highly portable.
Is Full-Time RV Living Safe?
Another common question involves health and safety. Some people have safety concerns about living full-time in an RV. There are a few measures that you can follow to ensure that full-time RV living is safe. The vast majority of RV parks and campgrounds are incredibly safe.
However, you will still need to follow common sense protocol. This means that children should always be supervised and that you should always remain alert. It is essential to think of campgrounds as public areas and act accordingly.
You can secure yourself by always giving your location details to trusted family or friends.
It can be helpful to learn basic self-defense. You should always keep a first-aid kit with you. Full-time RV living can be incredibly safe when the basic protocol is followed, and a commonsense approach is taken. There is no reason why it has to be less secure than traditional home living.
Closing Thoughts
You will now have a much clearer idea of the basics of full-time RV living. There are many things to consider; however, many opportunities can be attained through RV living. If you can manage the responsibilities of managing an RV and having a sustainable income method, you can thrive in this new lifestyle.
It can even be achieved with kids; however, this requires more planning. You will now know what to consider when living in a full-time RV.
We highly recommend trying this lifestyle short-term before taking the plunge into a full-time RV lifestyle. You can use rentals to give the lifestyle a test run before getting involved fully.
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