**Long Term RV Living: 16 Expert Tips & Insights**
Full-time RVing is an exciting way to explore the world while enjoying the flexibility of traveling whenever you please. Before making your RV your permanent home, it’s essential to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for the various challenges and adventures on the road.
**Tips for Living in an RV Full-Time**
For those with an adventurous spirit, full-time RVing can be an appealing lifestyle. However, it’s not without its challenges. Fortunately, many experienced RVers have shared their insights to help newcomers navigate this unique way of living.
**1. RV Life Is Slower Paced**
While it’s tempting to constantly move and explore new places, a slower pace is often more sustainable. Spend a week or more in one location to recharge and fully appreciate your surroundings and the people you meet.
**2. Find a Job That Suits the Lifestyle**
If you’re not retired, finding work that complements the RV lifestyle is crucial. Many full-time RVers work remotely or have flexible jobs that allow them to travel. Consider roles in real estate, campground hosting, or other mobile-friendly professions. A reliable hotspot for Wi-Fi can be a valuable investment.
**3. Diversify Your Experiences**
RV life offers a variety of experiences, from bustling city camping to serene natural landscapes. Embrace the diversity to make your travels richer and more fulfilling.
**4. Find the Balance Between Planning Ahead and Going With the Flow**
Planning is essential, especially for popular destinations during peak seasons. However, it’s also important to remain flexible and enjoy the freedom that RV living offers. Balance structured planning with spontaneous adventures.
**5. Build a Community**
Living on the road can sometimes feel isolating. Building a network of friends—whether locals or fellow RVers—can provide a sense of community and enhance your travel experience.
**6. Embrace a Life Defined by Travel**
Committing to full-time RV living means accepting a lifestyle centered around constant travel. While it can be challenging, the excitement and thrill of exploring new places often outweigh the difficulties.
**7. Be Prepared to Boondock**
Boondocking, or camping without hookups, is a common part of RV life. Plan for these situations by having a generator, adequate water supply, and a weather-appropriate setup. Mild temperatures, between 40 and 70 degrees, are ideal for boondocking.
**8. Carry Cash and Change**
While most transactions can be done with cards, having cash is essential for unexpected expenses like tolls or laundromats. It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash to cover unforeseen situations.
**9. Download Road Trip Apps**
Enhance your RV experience with helpful apps. Navigation tools, gas station locators, and public restroom finders can make your travels more convenient and stress-free.
**10. Listen to Podcasts**
Podcasts are a great way to pass the time during long drives. They provide engaging content that can entertain and inform, making the journey more enjoyable.
**11. Get Ready to Downsize**
RVs have limited space, so downsizing is necessary. Start early and plan where each item will go. Consider storing items you don’t immediately need to ease the transition.
**12. Buy a Space Heater**
A space heater is an essential item, especially in colder climates. It provides efficient heating without relying solely on propane, which can be quickly depleted.
**13. Stock Up on Antifreeze**
Antifreeze is crucial for protecting your RV’s plumbing during cold weather. Pour antifreeze down the drains to prevent your pipes from freezing, especially if you’re away from your RV.
**14. Fill Your Cupboards with Healthy Snacks**
Having a variety of healthy snacks is important for long trips. Stock up on nutritious items like soup, applesauce, granola, hummus, and fruit to avoid unhealthy fast food.
**15. Be on the Lookout for Clean Showers**
Save your water supply by using showers at campgrounds or other facilities. Many locations offer clean and well-maintained bathrooms for RVers.
**16. Use Public Transit to Get Into Cities**
Parking an RV in a city can be challenging. It’s often easier to park outside the city and use public transportation to explore urban areas.
**Experience the Open Road**
Full-time RV living offers a unique and adventurous lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting, these tips can help you make the most of your journey. Embrace the freedom of the open road and enjoy all the experiences it brings!