RV Living: Before You Take The Leap

2020 changed the world, and for many people, it changed life circumstances and perspectives on life. The pandemic put the brakes on life for so many and forced many to take a deep breath and a long pause to reevaluate their priorities, career options, and overall life trajectory. Work from home has become the standard in many industries, allowing people to make choices about where and how they want to live, and many are choosing a simpler, more nomadic lifestyle. If life on the road has been calling to you, here are some things to consider before selling everything and buying that RV.

Relationships

If you plan to cohabitate or take your young family on the road, your relationships will be put to the test. RVs do not offer a whole lot of space or privacy, so you will need to be comfortable with getting cozy and close with your RV mates. If you are used to living in a spacious home, you may want to rent a small apartment on a short-term lease to see if you and your family can adjust to living small before committing to the long haul.

Minimalize Before You Start

RVs do not come with much storage at all. You will want to figure out what you can’t live without before you’re forced to give it up for life on the road. Pare down your belongings to the bare minimum, then pare it down a little bit more. You’ll be surprised at how little you really need to live a happy, simple life.

Don’t Ditch Your Car

If you want to easily explore the areas you travel through, it’s easier and cheaper to use your own car than trying to rent one or using Uber.

Size Matters

Take the size of your travel party into consideration when shopping for an RV. Your children won’t stay pint-sized for long, and they will need beds of their own in the next year or two. Everyone in the RV should have enough space to get a little solitude now and then, whether that’s in a curtained bunk or in the bathroom.

Campgrounds Cost Money

Boondocking is very common for RV travelers. Boondocking is when you park for a night in a safe location, like a Walmart parking lot. Many Walmart locations allow RV travelers to stay for one night, but you’ll need to pull up stakes and move on quickly or face trespassing. The alternative to boondocking is to park at an RV campground. Prices vary across the country, and you will want to know how much you can expect to pay before you pull in.

Take your time when making a decision as big as full-time RV living. Consider the needs of every family member or partner, and plan ahead!