Full-Time RV Living: 11 Best-Known Things to Expect Before You Take the Plunge

Preparing for the full-time RV lifestyle can be one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) parts of your life.

If you’re in the dreaming or planning phases of launching into the full-timer lifestyle, here are 11 things we think you should know about what it’s really like to live life on the road.

1. It Can Cost Less (Or More) Than a Sticks and Bricks Lifestyle

Full-time RV living can be cost-effective, but expenses vary. Resorts and luxury campgrounds can be pricey, while boondocking offers a financially freeing, minimal-cost alternative.

Staying longer in one place often leads to savings, as many campgrounds offer discounted weekly or monthly rates. Different preferences mean finding a balance that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Check out our Full-Time RV Living Guide to learn even more!

2. Be Prepared To Fix Things

Full-Time RV Living: 11 Best-Known Things to Expect Before You Take the Plunge 1

Living in an RV can sometimes mean frequent maintenance and repairs. From loose screws to full-on malfunctions, living in a home on wheels is bound to present some opportunity for repairs. When your home shakes, rattles, and rolls down the road, things can and will break!

Having a basic toolkit and some repair skills is essential. Expect to spend time troubleshooting and fixing issues to keep your home on wheels in good shape. Being handy and resourceful can save money and prevent small problems from becoming major headaches.

3. You Should Travel Slower Than You Think You’ll Want To

In the excitement of RV life, you might be tempted to move frequently. Many newbies set off, intent to explore a new state every week! However, covering a lot of miles quickly can lead to burnout – in your mental state as well as in your pocketbook. Travel days can be exhausting and living full-time in your RV means you can (and should) slow down, relax, and take in the view. Experience new places like a local, not a tourist!

You’ll reduce fuel costs, minimize wear and tear on your RV, and you’ll be able to fully explore and appreciate each location. This ultimately leads to a more relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.

4. You’ll Need to be Resourceful if You Rely on WiFi for Work

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If you rely on WiFi for work, you will need to do a great deal of planning to be fully prepared for life on the road. Free campground WiFi is very often unreliable and insufficient for work needs.

Full-time working RVers typically have multiple internet sources, such as satellite connections and hotspots from more than one carrier, to ensure coverage in various locations. Being resourceful and having backup options is crucial to maintaining a stable connection for remote work on the road.

Read our article on the best RV internet options so you can be fully prepared.

5. Everything Takes Longer in an RV

In an RV, everyday tasks can take longer than in a traditional home. Setting up and breaking down camp, cooking in a smaller kitchen, and managing limited storage all require extra time and effort. Planning and patience are key to adapting to this slower pace of life. Embrace the process and enjoy the journey, knowing that this is part of the unique experience of full-time RV living.

6. The Freedom and Flexibility is Unmatched

Full-time RV living offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility. You can change your location and scenery whenever you want, allowing you to follow the weather, explore new places, and live spontaneously.

A phrase used amongst full-time RVers is: “Don’t like your neighbors? Move!” This playful phrase seems ridiculous out of context, but full-time RVers have the freedom to move whenever they please – even if it’s just to get away from noisy or annoying camp neighbors!

This lifestyle frees you from the constraints of a fixed location, giving you the ability to create a life filled with diverse experiences and adventures tailored to your preferences.

7. You’ll Be So Much Closer To Nature

Full-time RV living allows you to immerse yourself in nature like never before. You can camp in beautiful, remote locations and wake up to stunning landscapes. This lifestyle encourages a more outdoor-oriented way of life, with ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, stargazing, and other activities that foster a deep connection with the natural world.

However – if nature isn’t really your forte, full-time RVing can also allow you to stay at high-end resorts and campgrounds within or near your favorite metro areas. This can allow you to experience the hustle and bustle of city life without the high costs of home ownership!

8. You Can Forge Stronger Relationships

Full-time RV living means you get to spend more quality time with your family.

Living in an RV full-time can strengthen relationships with travel companions. Sharing close quarters and facing challenges together fosters teamwork and communication.

Additionally, the RV community is welcoming and supportive, offering opportunities to meet new people and build friendships on the road. Join us at an Escapees RV Club or Xscapers event and see!

Due to our nomadic lifestyles, friendships forged with other RVers tend to skip the small talk and go right into meaningful conversations. These connections, both with companions and fellow RVers, can become a cherished aspect of the lifestyle.

Visit our Escapees RV Club Events page to learn more about our events happening all throughout the year. We hope to see you at one!

9. You’ll Embrace a Minimalist Lifestyle

Full-time RV living encourages a minimalist lifestyle, as space is limited, and every item must have a purpose. This downsizing leads to a simpler, less cluttered life, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. Embracing minimalism can bring a sense of freedom and satisfaction, reducing stress and making it easier to enjoy the experiences and adventures that come with RV living.

As full-time RVers, we relish in the collection of experiences, not things.

Learn more about downsizing for RV life here.

10. You’ll Have Many Unique Experiences

Full-time RV living opens the door to unique experiences you might not encounter otherwise. You can visit off-the-beaten-path locations, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in diverse cultures and communities. This lifestyle offers the flexibility to attend local events, festivals, and attractions, providing a rich tapestry of memories and stories that are uniquely yours.

11. Full-Time RVing Leads to Improved Self-Sufficiency

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Full-time RV living enhances your self-sufficiency. You’ll learn to rely on yourself for problem-solving and everyday tasks, from basic repairs to navigating new environments. Overcoming these challenges builds confidence and independence, making you more resourceful and capable. This increased self-reliance is a rewarding aspect of the RV lifestyle, empowering you to handle whatever comes your way.


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Full-Time RV Living: 11 Best-Known Things to Expect Before You Take the Plunge 4

2 Responses

  1. Best known is a misnomer as presented in this article.
    How about a domicile address? Where do you find one of those in an advantageous state to do the business of getting lost everywhere.

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