Living on the open road can seem like a dream—days filled with new destinations, scenic backdrops, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. But full time RV living is more than romance of the road-it requires planning, adaptability, and resourcefulness. As RV enthusiasts Jesse and Rachael Lyons will attest, the lifestyle is extremely rewarding, but it also has its unique challenges. Here’s a comprehensive guide to getting you through the ins and outs of full time RV living.
1. Cost Considerations: Balancing Freedom with Planning
One of the greatest pluses of RV life is how affordable it can be. You can spend cheaply or splurge based on your budget and desires. Here are the essential costs you should account for:
Campsite Fees
These can vary substantially. National parks and public lands tend to be on the lower end, whereas private campgrounds offer the amenities.
Fuel for Full Time RV Living
Cost of traveling. For instance, if you travel a lot, you will spend a lot on diesel or gas. This is solely based on the kind of RV you have, travel frequency, and distance covered.
Maintenance of the RV and Vehicle
You will surely have a budget for regular maintenance, repairs, and eventual emergencies.
Cost of Daily Living: Full Time RV Living
Grocery expenses, mobile services, Wifi, and personal supplies, among others, are just like those in a stationary home.
Full Time RV Living Experience
You would want to control costs to determine what kind of RV lifestyle you want and build a budget that will support it. Careful planning will help you allocate funds to the things that matter most to you on the road.
2. Making Money on the Road: Work and Income
If you don’t retire or keep the savings, then income is the last thing you need to worry about. Those who do full time RV Living telecommute are capitalizing fully on the expanding options available at remote work. Options include:
Remote Jobs
Marketing, customer service writing, and tech support are among only a few jobs one may be suited for in remote areas.
Seasonal or Destination-Based Jobs
Many parks offer seasonal employment, allowing for the opportunity to work while traveling to more interesting destinations. Full time RV Living can also monetize such unique skills as hobbies or crafts as secondary income, for instance, through freelancing, selling things online, or even teaching or coaching.
3. Downsizing and Storing Possessions: Full Time RV Living
A full time RV Living requires a minimalist lifestyle. So, determine what is absolutely indispensable on the road and what may be stored, sold, or donated. Some full-timers rent out their places in the traditional sense or sell everything to start with a clean slate.
Sell or Store
If you have too much stuff to get rid of, then consider renting a storage space or using a family member’s space.
Renting as Supplemental Income
You can rent your home on Airbnb or another platform to help fund the expenses of your RV lifestyle.
4. Choosing a Domicile State: Full Time RV Living
You need a place you can call home, such as a state in which you have a legal address, for tax and voting purposes and so your vehicle is registered. An RVer’s “domicile” might not be the state you spent your childhood in or the last state in which you lived.
Popular States
Florida, Texas, and South Dakota are also a favorite with RVers. These are states where no state income tax exists and where the state laws concerning nomads is lenient.
Mail Forwarding Services Companies
Escapees RV Club, St. Brendan’s Isle, and iPostal1 service can receive and forward mail sent from your mailing address located at your home to you wherever you might be present.
5. Internet and Connectivity: Full Time RV Living
Connectivity is crucial for those who work or have children learning online for full time RV Living. Many RVers use cellular hotspots or satellite internet services, such as Starlink.
Hotspots
Hotspots are a popular cellular option for RVers, though they could be less effective in out-of-the-way areas.
Starlink
Satellite internet has been an RV game-changer and provided reliable high-speed access in many remote areas. It makes sense to have another means of internet access for a backup in case you do need internet for work or school.
6. RV Insurance and Health Coverage: Full Time RV Living
You will be living on the road full time, so insurance is pretty much a must. In addition to having comprehensive RV insurance, you will need health insurance that covers you well for an almost full time traveling lifestyle.
RV Insurance
Look for policies that specifically cover full time use, as well as roadside assistance programs designed for RVs.
Health Insurance
Depending on where you will domicile, different health insurance options may be available to you. Make sure you have coverage for emergencies-you may travel a good distance from your usual providers.
7. Choosing the Right RV for Full Time Living
There is no such thing as an all-purpose RV for full time living, and the best one will depend on your family’s size, budget, and traveling style. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing your RV:
Size and Layout
A larger RV allows for greater comfort but could be tougher to manoeuvre around and park. Consider the number of members in your household and how much space they require.
Tank Sizes
If you plan to boondock—that is, camp without hookups—larger freshwater and waste tanks will be very helpful.
Other Features
Decide what you want. Some RVers require a washer and dryer or a large kitchen; others are happy with a smaller configuration.
Campgrounds: Full Time RV Living
Campgrounds vary quite a bit in terms of amenities, cost, and requirements for making a reservation. Some of the following are the types of camping you’ll encounter:
Private Campgrounds
Typically, you’ll find more luxurious settings here, with full hookups, Wifi and even showers, but tend to be more expensive.
Public Lands
National and state parks and BLM lands are more budget-friendly but offer fewer amenities in general.
Free Camping
Most public lands have free camping; these sites are usually non-hydrant based. Plan the time of your move to include in your reservation. If you’re going during peak season, you should get reservations months ahead of time.
Everyday Life on the Road
Living in an RV is no fun and games. It is the everyday management of resources and adaptation to daily problems.
Travel Days – Full Time RV Living
Traveling in an RV takes longer than one expects. Expect to add travel time due to the slow pace, unscheduled stops, and detours.
Maintaining Relationships – Full Time RV Living
Relationships with family and friends become difficult to maintain, so consider scheduling travel to visit loved ones or using technology to stay in touch.
Resource Management – Full Time RV Living
RVers must be mindful of water, power, and space. It is a transition when having to learn how to save and replenish on the fly.
Clearing All Doubts About RV Life
How much does it cost? The cost varies highly in response to your travel patterns, but planning ahead and being flexible can bring expenses under control. Can you live in an RV forever? Absolutely, but you have to get a legal domicile for tax and other legal purposes. How do you prepare an RV for full-time living? You must plan your RV setup, secure income, and find a domicile and campground. You usually file taxes from the domicile state. How do I survive in an RV during winter? Some RVers go south to warmer states and some install heaters. How much is an RV? Find out RV costs at your local car dealer!
Conclusion
RV living full time is quite adventurous but requires proper research, careful planning, and flexibility. Freedom, experience, and the journey are peerless, but the challenges one will face remain inevitable. Be brave and embrace your experience with an open mind and enjoy the ride.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to live full-time in an RV?
Answer: Costs vary greatly for rving but depend largely on your travel frequency, campsite types, and lifestyle choices.
2. Can I work remotely while living in an RV full-time?
Answer: Yes, many RVers work online or find seasonal jobs to support their travels.
3. What is a domicile state, and why do I need one?
Answer: A domicile state is your legal address for taxes, voting, and vehicle registration, required even if you travel full-time.
4. How do I stay connected to the internet on the road?
Answer: Most RVers use cellular hotspots, Starlink, or satellite services, sometimes relying on multiple options for remote areas.
5. Is it hard to adjust to living in a small space living in an RV full time?
Answer: Yes, but with minimalism, creative organization, and adaptability, most RVers find the transition manageable.
