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Making the Switch to Full-Time RVing: What you should know

Oct. 8 2020 Lifestyle, Travel Tips By Hannah L.

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A million Americans live full-time in RVs, according to the RV Industry Association. Many families and couples are redefining what the American dream means. Since there is a growing movement of full- time RVers embracing a life of travel, minimalizing their belongings and working remotely we wanted to share some things you should know when considering this lifestyle change.


Upgrades Your RV to go Full Time

 

Several upgrades are recommended if your turning your part time RV into a full time RV. Everyone has different needs but there are several popular upgrades that can make or break your full-time experience.


  • Upgrade your RVs mattress. When you’re ready to full time, a better mattress is worth the investment. You’ll notice the difference after a few nights out on the road.
  • Install a better showerhead. The typical RV showerhead may not be as powerful as the one you’re used to at home.  After a few years it may end up needing to be replaced, so why not invest in a better-quality showerhead now?
  • Reliable internet access. Whether you need to Zoom your friends and family or you’re working remotely the nature of WIFI at RV parks is known for being unreliable. Most full timers use a wireless hot spot that’s billed to their phone plan or purchase RV satellite internet systems which have varying costs for hardware and access.
  • High-powered vacuum. If your spending lots of time in nature that means lots of dust and dirt indoors. Also, if you plan on full time RVing with pets that’s a lot of fur. A high quality vacuum will make your full-timing experience cleaner and more comfortable.

 

A few minor investments can make your home on the road feel just as comfortable and convenient as the home you had before.


Tips before becoming a full time RVer


  • Make a practice run. Before you toss away the house keys you should spend some time in an RV to see how it works for you. Do you want to stay at one campsite for weeks at a time? Or switch things up every couple of nights? Do you like commercial campgrounds? Or do you prefer solitude? Taking a trip longer than a weekend will help you determine what type of full time RVer you want to be.
  • Make sure you are insured. Two types of coverages are essential: for the replacement of your RV should it be damaged or stolen and for personal belongings much like homeowner’s insurance. There are different levels of coverage. Do your research to determine the best type for you.
  •  Downsize, declutter and minimize your belongings. Hold a yard sale, sell items on ebay or invite friends and family to go through your belongings. Then if you absolutely must, rent a storage locker.
  • Do your research and make a budget. Map out your monthly expenses and see where you can cut back. Living on the road means you won’t have the same monthly costs of rent or a mortgage but there are campground fees, gas, hookup fees, and unexpected repair costs. Have a plan for your monthly expenses and what work or jobs you will need to do from the road to take care of those costs.
  • Get to know your RV. Every RV comes with a manual. You don’t have to be a mechanic, but you should get to know the basics of RV care. Like changing a flat tire or performing general maintenance.

 

This is just a place to start. The best thing to do if you are planning on switching to full-time is talking to other RVers (there are so many great RV forums out there) and taking your own RV out. Start with weekends, then build up to taking longer trips. We hope this post will help you transition to full time RVing. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more RV education and inspiration.