Embracing the RV life is a thrilling prospect, filled with the promise of freedom, adventure, and new experiences. But before you hit the open road, there are essential considerations and preparations to be made. Let's delve into what you need to know.
What safety essentials should you consider?
Wasp spray
- Firearm
- First aid kit
- Home security camera
- Motion sensing security lights
- Alarm system
- Built-in GPS for the internet
- A kingpin is a locking mechanism that stops someone from coming over and taking your towable RV
Where do you sleep?
RV campgrounds are the most common.
- Boondocking refers to finding a piece of land to camp on where you’re not hooked up to anything. It’s more affordable than staying at a campground but does require some investment up front.
- Moochdocking is where you set up camp on a friend or family member’s driveway.
Some parting words of advice:
If this lifestyle was easy, everyone would do it. If you think it’ll make you happy despite those challenges, do it!
- Fears of the unknown are normal, and you may simply be fearful that it’s unknown.
- The more you educate yourself, the less scary things will be.
What are automotive essentials associated with RV life?
The most essential thing you can do is monitor your RV and truck so you can address a problem right away
- Monitor tire pressure, check fluids, inspect the seals on your windows, check your brake and turn signal lights, and keep an eye out for leaks or cracks that are forming
- Stay proactive
- Tools to keep on hand
- A general tool kit, tire pressure gauge, air compressor and all tools necessary to change a tire
What are the best parts of RV life?
Seeing friends and family
- Spending more time in dream destinations
- Living in an RV allows you to stay in these places for longer stretches, allowing you to see more places than you can with just a few weeks off a year
Why do people typically choose an RV over other methods of long-term travel?
Space
- Partners need room to do their own things
- Friends and family can visit
- Keep all your traditional conveniences
- A place to call home (that actually feels like a home)
What type of RV should you get?
Power to get over mountain passes
- Personal safety considerations
- Ease of use while driving
- Age of the RV
- A newer vehicle will likely need less renovations within. Older RV electronics can be easier to maintain for those without a lot of RV knowledge.
What do RVers do for income?
Many work regular full-time corporate jobs that are remote
- Some work seasonal jobs and travel the rest of the year
- Others live off savings for a while.
- You have to figure out for yourself what will give you the independence to live in your RV while still making enough money to meet your financial goals.
Challenges
Small living area: RVs are usually much larger than vans, but they’re still tiny in comparison to the stationary homes people leave behind.
- Personal space and communication: When you’re upset with someone, you can’t necessarily go to a separate room like you can in a regular house. It’s easy to see this lifestyle leading to strained relationships if you don’t learn to be patient and communicate properly during frustrating situations
- Weather and seasonal differences: Living on the road, you’re at the mercy of the weather. Your life becomes much more connected to the elements.
What should you do before hitting the road?
Financial planning: Begin with as little debt as possible
- Determine your residency
- Downsize: You will need so much less than you think you will
- Organize: Set yourself up for success by investing in storage solutions that make everything easily accessible
- Prepare to make mistakes
- Dive in: The only way to learn everything you need to know about RV life is by jumping in
What are helpful resources for those either thinking about RV life or those in it already?
YouTube
- The number one answer was YouTube
- Instagram was used for a wide variety of RV-related tasks
- Facebook Marketplace is a useful tool for selling items
- Craigslist
- Craigslist is a great tool in finding RVs for sale
- Campendium
- An app that helps travelers find places to camp in the US, Canada, and Mexico
Do I have to get rid of every material thing I love?
No, not really. An RV really is like a mini house, so you’ll likely not give up too many items.
What should you do if you’re on the fence
Rent a rig
- Live in the driveway
- Go on a test trip
- Commit to a time frame
- Consider the worst-case scenario
- If you don’t like living in an RV, you sell it and move back into a stationary home.
How much does RV life cost?
Daily cost: Daily cost of living for items like food, campsites, and gas will vary wildly depending on the area you are in.
- Speed of travel: No matter where you park your rig, slowing down can help you save money. You’ll also spend less on gas by traveling more slowly.
