RV full-timing always takes people by surprise. “You mean you live in your RV?” Yes, and the benefits are numerous. But, when you’re explaining RV full-timing to someone, there are a few things you have to mention if you want to share why this lifestyle is so excellent.
Often people think that the reason someone would live in their RV is because of a financial crisis. While this may be true for a select few, for most of us, it’s a choice.
We choose to RV full-time because of the freedom it brings. You aren’t tied down to one place or a mortgage payment. You’re free to explore and travel to wherever your heart desires. Most people who live this lifestyle will tell you that they love getting to see the country.
For some reason, when people think of RVs, they have this idea of cramped quarters, roughing it, and some worn-out old jalopy barreling down the road. Nothing could be further from the truth. RVs nowadays are packed with all of the amenities. With modern appliances, residential-style furniture, and stylish interior decor, RVs are as convenient and comfortable as a typical home.
You’ll find a wide range of new RVs for sale as well as used RVs for sale in every style imaginable. If you go to someone like RV Wholesalers, you’ll have so many choices that you can find exactly what you are looking for. They have lightweight travel trailers and even used campers for sale for those looking for an affordable investment.
I’ve already mentioned the freedom to travel anywhere, but I have to say that my favorite thing about RV living is the freedom from stuff. When you live the RV life, you love and use everything you own because it doesn’t make sense to pack around anything else. Life gets simpler without all of the clutter. I no longer have a closet full of clothes I don’t wear or a garage crammed full of boxes full of mystery contents. I know exactly what I own, and I enjoy all of it.
If you’re wise with your financial planning, RV full-timing can be much cheaper than living in a regular home. It’s much easier to pay off an RV. However, don’t be fooled. The expenses can add up quickly if you’re not careful. The price of gasoline, camping fees, and supplies can be overwhelming without the proper budget.
There are plenty of used travel trailers for sale when considering getting into full-timing. When looking at RVs for sale, consider your monthly budget and what the payments will look like. It’s no fun taking on a new lifestyle you’ll end up resenting as a financial burden. If the trailers for sale that you look at are out of your price range, don’t be afraid to haggle a bit. The salesman wants to make a commission. Instead, they would come down on the price a little, make a sale, and then see you leave without making a purchase. So be on the lookout for used travel trailers in your price range and act when the price is right.
It can cost anywhere from $700 to $7,000 a month to live in your RV, depending on if you’re making payments on your RV, your family size, and where you decide to camp.
Campsites that feature full hookups (sewer, electric, and water) cost between $35 and $75 per night. However, state and national parks are beautiful and can cost as little as $20-$30 a night. Just be aware that most national parks don’t provide electricity, water, or sewer, so you’ll have to prepare accordingly.
Whatever plan you set, it’s best to set a budget at the beginning of the month. Take advantage of any discounts, free camping, and cook meals rather than eating out. Spending a few extra days at a location you’re enjoying rather than driving on for the sake of covering more ground can save on gas. Be sure to join online communities of other full-timers to share tips and great travel locations.
Free camping is available in the United States in national forests and national grasslands for up to 14 days without getting a permit. You’ll find some of the best free camping at the Bureau of Land management.
Sometimes you need somewhere to make a quick overnight stop without having to pay any fees. Many Wal-Marts allow free overnight parking for one night on the side or back of the store. Keep in mind that this policy varies from store to store and is at the discretion of the store manager. Cracker Barrel restaurants have 3-6 parking spaces for buses and RVs for dining patrons. However, if those spaces are empty at the end of the evening, you’re welcome to use them for overnight parking.
There’s this wild misconception that RV full-timers are lazy, jobless bums just loafing about the country. While it’s possible that a few people out there have managed to find a way to live this lifestyle without much money, it’s the exception, not the rule.
RV full-timers are generally either retired and traveling on their savings or working as freelancers. Many full-timers own their own business. However, I follow a few fabulous full-timers who travel the country with their children and pets, documenting their travels while homeschooling their children. They post photos on Instagram and keep a profitable blog.
I cannot say enough for all of the fresh air and sunshine in my life! People often ask me if I ever get tired of living in cramped quarters. The answer is no; I don’t live in cramped quarters! We use the camper for cooking, sleeping, eating, and taking shelter when the weather gets rough. Other than that, we try to spend as much time outside as possible!
Okay, I can live without a regular house, but I cannot live without the internet. Unfortunately, the WiFi at campgrounds is notoriously slow, so I have learned not to even bother with it. Instead, we pay extra on our cell phones for a mobile hot spot to stay connected as we travel the country.
Lastly, the most important connection you can make as a full-timer is connecting to the full-timing community. I use the Allstays app to read other traveler’s comments about overnight locations and excellent GPS coordinates at Bureau of Land Management spots. In addition, following other people who are full-timing on Instagram and Facebook is a great way to learn new tips, find fun travel destinations, and make new friends. Above all else, explore the great wide open, have fun, and live your dreams.
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