should i travel full time

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

How To Know If Full-Time Travel Is Right For You

• Full-Time Travel
• Types of Travel

To those not doing it, full-time travel can sound like “living the dream.” And while it can be a dream life, it isn’t always easy. It definitely isn’t an endless vacation.

In 2017, I quit my job to travel the world. Thus far, I’ve been to six continents and over 25 countries. For those of you contemplating full-time or even part-time travel, here are some ways to determine if this life is the right one for you.

1. You Love Trying New And Strange Foods

I’m lucky that I’ve always been adventurous with new foods.

From the time I was 16, I lived with a French host family. My host brother, one day, offered me a taste of the sheep’s brain he was eating. I recoiled in horror. Fortunately, I realized I had no right to an opinion until I tasted them. So, I did. I can now experientially say that I do not care for sheep’s brains. The important part is that I tried them.

As you travel the world, you’ll constantly encounter strange foods whether it’s meat, fish, fruit, or vegetables. More importantly, you’ll find it difficult to find foods you’re accustomed to. For example, peanut butter is often not readily available. Potato chips in other countries are flavored with bacon, barbecue, spices, and flavor combinations you’ve never considered. Trying to travel the world on a very specific diet can add frustration to the journey because the more you limit your food choices, the harder it will be to find them. Insects can be on the menu, as can innards. If you’re hosted by a family for any part of your travels, it could be considered insulting if you don’t eat what they serve you. Being open to new foods is an essential part of traveling full time.

2. You Can Handle Different Beds Every Night

Have you ever gone on vacation and, as you traveled back home, said, “I loved my vacation, but I can’t wait to sleep in my own bed!” You’ve no doubt purchased a mattress you love, broken it in, and enjoyed a good night’s rest. When you travel full time, you don’t get to come home to that bed anymore. You have to adjust to a new mattress, different pillows (sometimes made by stuffing clothing into a pillowcase), and different bedding (a top-sheet is not part of many cultures) every place you go. While this may seem trite, full-time travel can leave you missing the comforts of home; from your bed to street noise and more, you’ll constantly adapt to new places as you lay your head at night.

3. You Can Live Out Of Your Suitcase

Depending on where you stay and how long you’re there, you may or may not have space or interest to unpack. Your life becomes a series of packing and unpacking every time you change locations. I find that if I’m in a place for a week or more, or if there are drawers and a closet with hangers, I happily unpack. Oftentimes, however, I’m in a spare room with none of the aforementioned luxuries, so I pull things out of my suitcase and try my best not to make a mess. Whenever it’s time to pack again, it amazes me that I can never fit the same amount of belongings into my bags the way I did on my first trip!

4. You’re Prepared To Pack Light And Carry Your Luggage

Unless you’re traveling first class, or with an RV, you’ll be carrying your bags. This can be from trains or bus stations to youth hostels, and it can also be up the stairs to your room in a budget hotel.

Being able to afford full-time travel for more than a few months means staying in places that don’t offer luxury services. You’ll learn, very quickly, that you don’t want to travel with more than you have to. I’ve donated clothing and more to charity, or gifted items that were too heavy to new friends as I’ve traveled. Unless it’s extremely hot, I wear the same shirt two days in a row. After months on the road, if I get tired of a shirt, or it’s seen its last wash, I’ll donate or toss it in exchange for a newer one.

It’s important to note that full-time travel is not glamorous. You won’t have much use for makeup, and you won’t have space for fancy clothes or your dancing shoes.

5. You’re Courageous When It Comes To Personal Development

One of the things that surprised me during my first year of travel was how much I learned about myself. My journey felt like an adult vision quest. It wasn’t always fun.

Along your travels, you’ll face new situations, be challenged, and be pushed outside your comfort zone. These are the experiences that help you grow and become the person you want to be. Sometimes, you won’t enjoy what you learn. Other times, you’ll be delighted to discover how resourceful you can be. The important thing to realize is that when you travel full time, you no longer have the daily distractions of an office or friends and family to keep you from discovering yourself. It takes a degree of courage and perseverance to do this work. Make sure you’re up to the challenge before embarking on a full-time travel journey.

6. You’re Prepared To Do A Lot Of Planning

When you go on vacation, you may feel delighted to pick a location that excites you, book your travel, reserve your hotel and tours, and go! When you travel full time, planning itself becomes a full-time job. Every time you want to move to a new place, you’ll have to sort out how to get there, where to stay, and what to do. The more frequently you move, the more planning you’ll have to do.

I’ve learned to let go of planning every moment and focus instead on transportation and lodging. As far as tours and sightseeing, I let that unfold the moment after I arrive. That takes a lot of stress out of the process.

7. You Won’t Give Up Just Because You Can’t Access Wi-Fi 

If you’re planning to work or blog while you travel, you’ll quickly find that Wi-Fi is the bane of your existence. The signal may be weak, non-existent, or shared with so many people that uploading a photo is either impossible or takes hours. Try having a video call and after numerous call drops, you’ll turn off the video, and curse the network gods.

Consider bringing a Wi-Fi hotspot or a phone that allows you to tether, and purchase a local SIM card. Local SIM cards offer data rates that are significantly less expensive than roaming with your US carrier.

8. You Accept That Boredom And Burnout Are Par For The Course

The same way you get burned out working applies to full-time travel. As previously mentioned, this is not a full-time vacation. Once you’re living the travel lifestyle, you’ll have moments of boredom, disappointment, and burnout.

Here’s an interesting remedy: When I started my travels, I used to move approximately every three days. Several months in, I found myself in a small town in Argentina with no tourism. I booked a three-night stay and asked to add on three more. I then added another few days, and finally, ended up staying for two weeks. The joy of being able to avoid packing, planning, and being able to feel like I had a home base for an extended period was just what I needed. If it happens to you, know that it’s normal. Go with the flow and plan to relax until the burnout subsides.

9. You’re Prepared To Be Viewed As An Ambassador For Your Home Country 

While it’s not an official appointment, you’ll meet people along your travels who have never left their own country. For some, you’ll become their view of your country. Your behavior will become the basis for them to judge other people from your country. I was fortunate to live with a host family as a teenager. I learned to speak fluent French because of them, and in my travels, I learned that Americans who travel and expect everyone to speak English are not always well thought of. This prompted my obsession with learning the local language of every place I traveled to. 

It’s essential to respect local cultures and tune in to how people live, do business, and address one another. American culture often finds us insisting on exemplary customer service and complaining if we don’t get it. Outside of America, I’ve found many cultures move at a much slower pace and tend to be much less demanding. Understanding layers of formality and courtesy is essential. You’ll have much deeper experiences with locals when you respect their ways, rather than argue or try to change them.

Full-time travel is, in my opinion, an experience everyone should have, even if only for a few months. It will change you in extraordinary ways. However, it’s not for everyone. Make sure you set your expectations before embarking.

For more resources on traveling full time, click here:

• 9 Key Safety Tips For Full-Time Travelers
• 7 Key Things To Consider If You Dream Of Traveling Full-Time
• 10 Reasons I Love Traveling Full Time

Heather is a full-time travel coach who is passionate about helping professionals seeking more freedom and flexibility to ditch their desk and discover their destiny through full-time travel. She provides her clients with the path to the mindset, money, and mastery to make a full-time travel lifestyle possible. Since quitting, she's become an international best-selling author and is about to do her first TEDx talk! Learn more about Heather's travel adventures on her website, Heather Begins.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

How I Afford To Travel The World Full Time (+How You Can, Too!)

Published: September 10, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Agnesse Abreu

• Budget Travel
• Travel Guide
• Digital Nomad
• Location Independence
• Travel Hacks

Introduction

Are you dreaming of exploring exotic destinations, experiencing new cultures, and creating lifelong memories? While the idea of traveling the world full time may seem like an unattainable dream, it’s actually within reach for those who plan and prioritize their finances. In this article, I will share my personal tips and insights on how to afford to travel the world full time, and how you can do it too!

Traveling full time requires careful financial planning and a willingness to make certain lifestyle changes. It’s not just about finding the cheapest flight tickets or accommodation; it’s about creating a sustainable budget and adopting a minimalist approach to spending. With the right strategies and mindset, you can make your travel dreams a reality.

From assessing your finances to finding affordable accommodation and earning money while traveling, there are various steps you can take to make long-term travel a possibility. Let’s dive into each of these steps in more detail and discover how you can embark on an incredible journey around the world.

Remember, everyone’s financial situation is unique, so not all tips may be applicable to your specific circumstances. However, I’m confident that you’ll find valuable insights that can be tailored to your own travel goals.

So, are you ready to learn how to afford to travel the world full time? Let’s get started!

Assess Your Finances

Before embarking on your full-time travel adventure, it’s essential to assess your current financial situation. This step will help you understand your income, expenses, and savings, giving you a clear picture of what you can afford and how long you can sustain your travels.

Start by creating a comprehensive overview of your income sources. Calculate your monthly earnings and identify any potential sources of passive income or savings that can contribute to your travel funds. This could include rental income, investments, or freelance work.

Next, evaluate your current expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. Review your monthly bills, subscriptions, and discretionary spending. Consider eliminating or reducing unnecessary expenses such as dining out, entertainment, or luxury purchases. Redirecting this money towards your travel fund will significantly increase your savings.

Additionally, take into account any outstanding debts you may have, such as credit card loans, student loans, or mortgages. Paying off high-interest debts before you start traveling will relieve financial burdens and allow you to focus on enjoying your journey.

Once you have a clear understanding of your income, expenses, and savings, you can determine how much money you need to save for your full-time travel adventure. Consider factors such as transportation costs, accommodation expenses, daily living expenses, travel insurance, and visa fees. Research the cost of living in the countries you plan to visit to get a more accurate estimate.

Remember, it’s also essential to have a financial safety net in place before you start traveling. Unexpected expenses can arise, such as medical emergencies or flight cancellations. Aim to have at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved up as an emergency fund.

While assessing your finances may seem daunting, it’s a crucial step that will set the foundation for your full-time travel journey. By knowing your financial situation and having a clear savings target, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and create a sustainable travel budget.

Create a Travel Budget

Once you have assessed your finances, the next step in affording to travel the world full time is to create a comprehensive travel budget. A travel budget will help you track your expenses, allocate funds to different aspects of your journey, and ensure that you can sustain your travels over an extended period.

Start by listing all the necessary expenses for your trip. This includes transportation costs, accommodation, meals, activities and attractions, visas, travel insurance, and any other essentials specific to your travel plans. Research the average costs in the destinations you plan to visit to get a realistic estimate.

Next, determine your daily spending allowance. Consider how you want to travel – whether you prefer budget accommodations, street food, and public transportation, or if you’re comfortable with more luxurious options. Set a daily spending limit based on what you can afford and what aligns with your travel style.

It’s important to also factor in unexpected expenses and contingencies. Allocate a portion of your budget for emergencies, such as medical expenses or lost/stolen belongings. While you can’t predict every expense, having a cushion in your budget will give you peace of mind during your travels.

Keep in mind that your travel budget is not set in stone and can be adjusted along the way. As you gain experience and learn more about the cost of living in different destinations, you may need to make tweaks to your budget. Be flexible and adaptable, and be prepared to make adjustments as necessary.

Lastly, track your expenses on the road. Use a budgeting app or create a spreadsheet to monitor your spending. This will help you stay accountable and identify areas where you may need to adjust your spending habits.

Creating and sticking to a travel budget is crucial for maintaining financial stability during your full-time travel journey. By being mindful of your expenses and making informed decisions, you can stretch your funds and ensure that you can sustain your travels for as long as possible.

Cut Expenses and Save Money

One of the key strategies for affording to travel the world full time is to cut expenses and save money in your daily life. By implementing some smart saving techniques, you can increase your travel fund and extend the duration of your adventures. Here are some tips to help you cut expenses and save:

• Reduce unnecessary spending: Take a close look at your monthly expenditures and identify areas where you can cut back. Cancel unused subscriptions, negotiate lower bills, and avoid impulsive purchases. By eliminating or reducing unnecessary expenses, you’ll have more money to put towards your travel fund.
• Cook meals at home: Eating out can quickly drain your finances. Save money by cooking meals at home and packing your lunch for work. Not only will you save on food costs, but you’ll also have the opportunity to develop your cooking skills and eat healthier.
• Minimize transportation costs: Find ways to reduce transportation expenses in your daily life. Consider carpooling, biking, or using public transportation instead of driving your car. If you live in a city, you may not even need a car at all, which can save you significant amounts of money on gas, insurance, and maintenance.
• Shop smart: Be a savvy shopper by comparing prices, using coupons, and taking advantage of sales. Look for discounts on essential items and consider purchasing in bulk to save money in the long run. Avoid impulse shopping and prioritize your travel goals when making purchasing decisions.
• Downsize and declutter: Another way to save money and create a more minimalist lifestyle is to downsize your belongings. Get rid of items you no longer need or use by selling or donating them. Not only will this help you save money on storage costs, but it will also reduce the amount of stuff you’ll need to manage while traveling.

Remember, every small saving adds up, so be conscious of your spending habits and make saving a priority. By cutting back on unnecessary expenses and adopting a more frugal lifestyle, you’ll be able to allocate more funds to your travel adventures.

Earn Money While Traveling

Finding ways to earn money while traveling is a game-changer that can significantly extend your full-time travel journey. Thanks to the rise of remote work and digital nomadism, there are now more opportunities than ever to make money while exploring new destinations. Here are some ways you can earn money while traveling:

• Freelancing: If you have a marketable skill, such as writing, graphic design, programming, or photography, consider becoming a freelancer. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer connect freelancers with clients from around the world. This allows you to work remotely and earn money while you travel.
• Teaching English: English is in high demand globally, and many countries offer opportunities for teaching English as a foreign language. Research teaching programs and language schools in the countries you plan to visit. By obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, you’ll have more opportunities and higher earning potential.
• Remote work: If you already have a job that can be done remotely, consider negotiating with your employer for a remote work arrangement. This way, you can continue working and earning an income while traveling. This option is becoming more common, especially in fields such as IT, marketing, and consulting.
• Blogging or Vlogging: If you enjoy writing or creating video content, starting a travel blog or vlog can be a way to monetize your passion. Build an engaged audience and partner with brands for sponsored content, affiliate marketing, or advertising revenue. While it may take time to generate income, it can be a rewarding way to share your travel experiences.
• Work exchange programs: Some organizations offer work exchange opportunities where you can work a few hours each day in exchange for accommodation and meals. Websites like Workaway, HelpX, and WWOOF connect travelers with hosts who need assistance with various projects, such as farming, hostel management, or teaching.

Remember, earning money while traveling may require some flexibility and resourcefulness. It’s important to research and plan ahead to secure reliable income sources. Create a well-rounded strategy that combines different earning methods to ensure a stable income stream.

By earning money while you travel, you can fund your adventures, cover your expenses, and ultimately prolong your full-time travel journey.

Embrace a Minimalist Lifestyle

Embracing a minimalist lifestyle is not only a mindset shift but also a practical approach to afford full-time travel. Minimalism is about simplifying your life, decluttering your belongings, and focusing on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. By adopting a minimalist lifestyle, you can reduce expenses, travel lighter, and create more freedom to explore the world. Here are some ways to embrace a minimalist lifestyle:

• Declutter your belongings: Go through your possessions and only keep what you truly need or love. Getting rid of excess items not only frees up physical space but also reduces the cost and hassle of storage. Consider selling or donating items that no longer serve a purpose in your life.
• Prioritize experiences over material possessions: Instead of focusing on accumulating things, prioritize experiences and memories. Shift your mindset to value moments and connections over material wealth. This shift can help you save money and invest in experiences that will last a lifetime.
• Adopt a minimalist packing approach: As a full-time traveler, packing efficiently is essential. Consider a minimalist packing approach by selecting versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Think of the essentials and be mindful of the weight and size of your luggage, as it can affect transportation costs and logistics.
• Practice conscious consumption: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if you truly need the item or if it will add value to your life. Avoid impulsive shopping and focus on mindful consumption. By being intentional with your purchases, you can save money and reduce clutter.
• Find joy in experiences rather than material possessions: Seek happiness in experiences, such as enjoying local cuisine, exploring nature, or immersing yourself in the local culture. Embrace the joy of discovery and connection, rather than accumulating more things.

Embracing a minimalist lifestyle not only helps you save money and travel lighter, but it also allows you to focus on what truly matters – experiences, connections, and personal growth. By decluttering your life and adopting a more intentional approach to consumption, you can create a more fulfilling and financially sustainable travel lifestyle.

Use Travel Hacks and Deals

When it comes to affording to travel the world full time, utilizing travel hacks and deals can be a game-changer. These strategies and tips can help you save money and make your travel experiences more affordable and enjoyable. Here are some travel hacks and deals to consider:

• Flexible travel dates: Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find the best deals on flights and accommodation. Avoid traveling during peak seasons and consider booking midweek or during shoulder seasons when prices tend to be lower.
• Flight deals and rewards: Keep an eye out for flight deals and promotions from airlines and travel websites. Sign up for newsletters and follow social media accounts that share flight deals and mistake fares. Additionally, consider joining airline rewards programs to earn points or miles that can be redeemed for future flights.
• Accommodation options: Explore different accommodation options to find the most affordable one for your needs. Consider staying in budget hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. You can also look into house-sitting, couchsurfing, or home exchanges as alternative lodging options.
• Travel insurance: Protecting yourself with travel insurance is essential while traveling. However, don’t settle for the first policy you come across. Compare different insurance providers and policies to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.
• City passes and attraction discounts: Many cities offer special passes that provide discounts or free entry to popular attractions, museums, and public transportation. Research and consider purchasing these passes to save money on sightseeing during your travels.
• Local transportation options: Instead of relying solely on taxis or rental cars, explore local transportation options such as buses, trains, or bikes. Using public transportation is often more affordable and allows you to experience the local culture and interact with locals.
• Travel off the beaten path: Popular tourist destinations tend to be more expensive. Consider exploring off the beaten path destinations that are equally breathtaking but offer lower costs for accommodation, meals, and activities.
• Travel with a group: Traveling with a group can help you split costs and save money. Consider traveling with friends or join group tours or travel communities where you can share expenses such as accommodations and transportation.

Remember, thorough research and planning are key to finding the best travel deals and hacks. Take your time to compare prices, read reviews, and consider different options to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

By utilizing travel hacks and deals, you can stretch your travel budget and make your full-time travel dreams more affordable and attainable.

Find Affordable Accommodation

Accommodation costs can be a significant portion of your travel expenses, but with some strategic planning and research, you can find affordable options that fit your budget. Here are some tips to help you find affordable accommodation while traveling:

• Hostels: Hostels are a popular choice among budget travelers as they offer affordable dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at a lower cost. Look for hostels with positive reviews, convenient locations, and amenities that suit your needs.
• Guesthouses: Guesthouses or bed and breakfast establishments are often family-run accommodations that provide a more intimate and affordable experience compared to hotels. These accommodations typically offer basic amenities and a cozy atmosphere.
• Vacation rentals: Consider renting apartments, condos, or houses through platforms like Airbnb, HomeAway, or VRBO. These rental options often provide more space, kitchen facilities, and a home-like environment, making them a cost-effective choice, especially for longer stays.
• House-sitting: House-sitting is a unique way to find free accommodation in exchange for taking care of someone’s home and pets while they’re away. Websites like TrustedHousesitters and HouseCarers connect homeowners with travelers looking for house-sitting opportunities.
• Camping: If you enjoy the outdoors, camping can be an affordable and adventurous accommodation option. Look for campsites or national parks that offer camping facilities. Be sure to check the availability of amenities such as showers, toilets, and cooking facilities.
• Work exchange programs: Certain work exchange programs, such as WWOOF and HelpX, not only provide opportunities to work in exchange for accommodation but also offer a chance to immerse yourself in local communities and learn new skills while saving money.
• Off-peak travel: Traveling during off-peak seasons can lower accommodation costs significantly. Look for discounts and deals offered by hotels and resorts during these periods. Additionally, booking in advance or last-minute can sometimes yield discounted rates.
• Stay with locals: Platforms like Couchsurfing and BeWelcome allow travelers to stay with locals for free. This not only provides cost savings but also gives you the chance to connect with locals, learn about their culture, and gain insights into the destination.

When searching for accommodation, be sure to read reviews, compare prices, and consider the location in relation to your travel itinerary. It’s also important to prioritize safety and ensure that the accommodation meets your comfort and cleanliness standards.

By utilizing these methods and being open to different types of accommodation, you can find affordable places to stay during your full-time travel adventure, helping you save money and make the most of your travel budget.

Try Work Exchange Programs

Work exchange programs are an excellent way to not only save money on accommodation and meals but also immerse yourself in local cultures and gain unique experiences during your full-time travel journey. These programs allow you to work a few hours a day in exchange for food and accommodation, providing a cost-effective and enriching travel experience. Here’s how you can try work exchange programs:

• Research different programs: There are various work exchange programs available worldwide. Research and choose programs that align with your interests and skills. Some popular work exchange platforms include Workaway, HelpX, and WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms).
• Explore different types of work: Work exchange opportunities can vary widely, ranging from farm work to hostel assistance, language teaching, eco-building projects, and more. Consider your skills and interests when selecting the type of work you want to engage in during your travels.
• Create a compelling profile: When applying for work exchange programs, it’s important to create a detailed and engaging profile. Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and why you’d be a valuable addition to the program. Personalize your profile to show your enthusiasm and commitment.
• Be flexible and adaptable: Work exchange programs often require flexibility and a willingness to adapt to new environments and tasks. Embrace the opportunity to learn new skills, step out of your comfort zone, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Communicate effectively: Clear and timely communication is key when arranging work exchange opportunities. Be responsive to hosts and clarify expectations regarding work hours, tasks, and accommodations to ensure a positive experience for both parties.
• Volunteer responsibly: While work exchange programs provide valuable benefits, it’s crucial to approach them with a responsible mindset. Be committed, respectful, and dedicated to the work you undertake. Remember that you’ve made a commitment to the host, and it’s essential to fulfill your responsibilities.
• Extend your stay: If you find a work exchange program that you particularly enjoy and want to spend more time in that community, consider extending your stay. Building long-term relationships and immersing yourself in a specific culture can enhance your travel experience.

Work exchange programs not only provide cost savings on accommodation and meals, but they also give you the opportunity to learn new skills, make meaningful connections, and contribute to the local community. Make the most of your full-time travel journey by experiencing the world through work exchange programs.

Take Advantage of Travel Rewards Programs

If you want to make your full-time travel dreams more affordable, taking advantage of travel rewards programs can be a smart strategy. These programs allow you to earn points, miles, or other rewards when you make purchases or use specific services. By accumulating rewards, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Here’s how you can make the most of travel rewards programs:

• Airline loyalty programs: Join frequent flyer programs offered by airlines. Accumulate miles by flying with partner airlines, making purchases with affiliated credit cards, or booking hotels and rental cars through the airline’s partners. Redeem these miles for discounted or free flights.
• Hotel loyalty programs: Sign up for hotel loyalty programs and earn points on your stays. Like airline programs, these points can be used for discounted or free stays at affiliated hotels. Look for promotions that offer bonus points or status upgrades to maximize your rewards.
• Travel credit cards: Apply for travel rewards credit cards that offer sign-up bonuses, points, or miles for your everyday spending. Use these cards for your travel-related expenses to earn additional rewards. Research different cards to find ones that align with your travel preferences and offer the best perks.
• Shop through rewards portals: Many travel rewards programs have online shopping portals where you can earn points or miles for purchases made through their platform. Check if your preferred programs offer this feature and leverage it when shopping for travel essentials or everyday items.
• Maximize promotions and bonuses: Keep an eye out for promotions, bonus offers, or limited-time deals from travel rewards programs. These can help you earn extra points or miles faster. Stay connected with program newsletters, social media, and websites to stay informed about the latest offers.
• Prioritize earning and redeeming: To maximize your rewards, focus on using loyalty programs that align with your travel goals and spending patterns. Concentrate your efforts on earning and redeeming within those programs to accumulate rewards faster and enjoy the benefits of your loyalty.
• Combine strategies: Don’t limit yourself to just one travel rewards program. Consider diversifying your approach by joining multiple programs and using different credit cards for specific spending categories. This way, you can optimize your rewards earning potential.

Remember, travel rewards programs require planning and consistency. Stay organized, track your rewards balances, and be mindful of any expiration dates. Read the terms and conditions of each program to fully understand how to earn and redeem rewards effectively.

By strategically leveraging travel rewards programs, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses and enjoy more affordable full-time travel adventures.

Embarking on a full-time travel adventure may seem like an impossible dream, but with careful planning, financial discipline, and the right strategies, it can become a reality. In this article, we’ve explored various methods to afford to travel the world full time and make the most of your travel budget.

Assessing your finances is the first step towards long-term travel. Understanding your income, expenses, and savings allows you to create a realistic budget and set achievable goals. By cutting expenses and adopting a minimalist lifestyle, you can save more money and prioritize experiences over material possessions.

Earning money while traveling can be a game-changer. Freelancing, teaching English, blogging, or participating in work exchange programs are just a few ways to fund your travels and extend the duration of your journey.

Utilizing travel hacks and deals helps you save money on flights, accommodation, and transportation. Being flexible and open to off-peak travel, using loyalty programs, and exploring alternative lodging options can significantly reduce your expenses.

Finding affordable accommodation is crucial for long-term travel. Researching hostels, guesthouses, vacation rentals, and work exchange programs can provide budget-friendly options while immersing you in local cultures.

Lastly, take advantage of travel rewards programs to further reduce your travel expenses. Airline and hotel loyalty programs, travel credit cards, and shopping portals can help you accumulate points and miles that can be redeemed for discounted or free flights and accommodations.

Remember, everyone’s travel journey is unique, and it’s important to tailor these strategies to your personal circumstances and preferences. By approaching full-time travel with careful planning, financial discipline, and a sense of adventure, you can turn your dream of exploring the world into a reality.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

9 things I learned in my first 6 months RVing full-time

Almost four years ago, my husband JT and I gave up our apartment and sold or donated almost everything we owned. Then, we hit the road as global digital nomads . We didn't have a home base for about three years while globetrotting. But, when we returned to the U.S. amidst global lockdowns last March, we had nowhere to call home.

We initially self-quarantined in a family member's unoccupied lake condo. And then we spent a few months living with family members. But as the pandemic continued, it became apparent we wouldn't quickly be resuming our global travels. So, we knew we needed a place to call home.

Put in the same situation, most people would have rented an apartment or booked month-long hotel stays . But after relocating an RV from Los Angeles to Dallas last July, we decided to buy the same RV model in August. And then, we moved into the RV full-time on Sept. 1, 2020.

Before our rental over the summer, we'd only done one previous RV relocation for $1 a day . So we had a lot to learn about RVing . Today, I'll share nine things I learned in my first six months of full-time RVing.

Get the latest points, miles and travel news by signing up for TPG's free daily newsletter .

There are many ways to RV

Before we started living out of our RV full-time, I had some preconceived notions about RVing. But, I quickly learned there are many ways to RV. And, what works best for one traveler may not be best for another.

For example, there's no set price that you should pay for campsites. Sure, it's possible to pay very little for campsites. After all, you can often camp on national lands for free or cheap. And some businesses such as Cracker Barrel and Walmart may allow you to park overnight for no fee. But, on the other end of the spectrum, some RV campsites cost more than $100 per night and offer hotel-like amenities . And of course, there's also a middle-ground of campsites that cost between $20 and $40 per night.

Likewise, there are many types of RVs. Walking around most campgrounds, we typically see luxury campers , pop-ups campers, converted school buses, fifth wheels, trailers, camper vans and vehicles with roof-top tents. Some of these RVs cost under $10,000 while others cost more than $200,000. And each type of camper is suitable for a particular kind of traveler.

Finally, there are many different RV travel styles. Some campers move each day while others stay at the same campground for an entire season. Many campers have outdoor furniture, while some trailers look like they could pull out at any time. And some RVers plan out their travels a year in advance to snag desirable reservations, while others book campsites as they go.

Related: Enter to win prizes by writing about your camping experience on national lands

Flexibility is key

For us, embracing flexibility has been critical in our first six months of RVing. We're naturally planners: we have spreadsheets of hotel reservations that go back years and forward into 2022 . But, we've found that we prefer booking campsites as we go. And, as we start to take one-off international trips by plane this summer while still living part-time out of the RV, I expect this flexibility will become even more critical.

Flexibility is also critical when living and working remotely in a small space with another person. I frequently work outside at our site's picnic table or a campground pavilion. But RVing inherently means you'll spend a lot of time together with your travel partner(s). This togetherness has been relatively easy for us since we were already used to living and working together as global digital nomads . But, from talking with other campers, being together all the time is a struggle for some people.

Related: 6 things you should know before you rent your first RV

High-speed internet isn't a problem

When we decided to live and work from an RV, I assumed high-speed internet would be a struggle. We don't need a lot of data since we each only use about one GB per day on our laptops. But, reliable and relatively quick internet is necessary if we want to work effectively.

Some campgrounds offer Wi-Fi. But, campground Wi-Fi is typically slow and often unusable. So, we primarily hotspot data from our phones to our laptops. We each have a Verizon Get More Unlimited plan, which gives us each 30 GB of 4G LTE hotspot data each month and unlimited data on our phones. So, I do all most work video calls on my phone. We also have a T-Mobile backup hotspot, but we haven't needed to use it yet.

We also bought a cell booster to help in areas with weak cell service. But, we've mostly avoided using the cell booster by using online resources to filter out campgrounds with poor Verizon cell service. For example, Recreation.gov includes cell coverage strength ratings for Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T as part of its review system. And for other campgrounds, I check Campendium. By using these two resources, we haven't experienced any significant connectivity issues.

Related: Use these cards when paying your cellphone bill

Know what you want before buying

There are many different types of RVs. And, my fellow TPG colleagues have tried out several different styles. For example, TPG's Richard Kerr bought a trailer to tow behind his truck. And TPG's Summer Hull rented a luxury Class A motorhome . Meanwhile, TPG's Chris Dong rented a van to try out van life.

We opted for a Class C RV, which is effectively a truck cab with a huge box attached where the truck bed would typically be. We decided on this type of vehicle since we didn't own a vehicle before buying our RV. And we knew the specific RV we purchased would work for us because we'd just relocated the same model from Los Angeles to Dallas . Plus, we love that one of us can work at the table in the back while the other one is driving.

Assuming you don't buy the exact model you relocate as we did, you can still try out what you're looking to buy. In particular, I recommend renting your model or a very similar model before you buy. Luckily, sites like RVshare allow you to rent RVs directly from owners. So, you can likely find the model you're planning to purchase and test it out beforehand.

Related: Don't make these 5 mistakes when buying your first RV

You can park your RV at the airport

We took a mid-pandemic trip to Istanbul, Turkey , last October. And we expect to restart international travel once we're fully vaccinated with some one-off trips while still living out of the RV. But, we wondered what we'd do with our RV while on these trips. After all, most RV storage solutions are set-up for RV owners who want to store their RV monthly or annually near where they live.

As I searched for a solution for our Istanbul trip, I found a few websites that list monthly RV parking solutions. As I scrolled through options on one site, I noticed several listings for an Atlanta airport Parking Spot. JT called the Parking Spot and we learned that they'd be happy to let us park our RV at their lot during our trip for a modest rate.

I'm not sure whether other Parking Spot locations will allow RV parking. But this experience reinforced the idea that we can likely find airport parking near most airports that will let us pay a modest amount to park our RV. After all, we can fit our RV in two back-to-back parking spots.

Related: Maximizing rewards and discounts on airport parking

Little things can be difficult

Some little things that are easy for most home dwellers are significantly more difficult for us while RVing. For example, here are some of the initially unexpected struggles we've faced:

• Picking up food is difficult because our RV is too tall for most drive-through lines and too long for most curb-side pick-up zones
• Many campgrounds don't accept packages, so getting Amazon deliveries or utilizing Amex Offers (such as Wine Insiders ) requires extra planning
• Our gray and black tank sensors rarely give correct readings, so it's difficult to determine when these tanks are full
• Using a drive-through COVID-19 testing center was awkward since our RV was too tall to follow the designated path
• Parking the RV at some businesses, such as a vet when our cat needed care and several hotels when we've needed unlimited internet, hasn't been particularly easy (we've learned to call or look at businesses ahead of time using Google Maps satellite view)

Of course, we could avoid some of these difficulties if we had a second vehicle. Most RVers either have a car they tow behind their RV or use a vehicle to tow their RV. But we only have our RV. As such, we have to go everywhere in our RV. We could solve this issue by buying a car or motorcycle, but we don't want to put the money into another vehicle right now.

Related: Travel is getting harder — and pricier

Some things are more straightforward than I expected

After noting some struggles in the last section, it's important also to mention that some parts of RVing are more manageable than I initially expected:

• Last-minute campsites for at least a few nights have been relatively easy to find
• Our 15-year-old cat Grace has settled into RV life well
• Cooking in the small kitchen has gone well
• Dumping black and gray tanks is scary for some RVers , but it hasn't been so bad for us
• Online resources, especially YouTube, make fixing some issues relatively easy

One aspect of our RV that we underappreciated when we bought it but love having it now is the back-up camera. Unless you have experience driving a large vehicle, I highly recommend ensuring your RV has a back-up camera.

Related: Going on a road trip? Consider using these credit cards

Handiness is essential

JT and I are not handy. But, we've had to learn some basics since maintenance and repairs are ongoing with our RV. We've learned a lot about our RV in the first six months, from identifying and stopping water leaks to fixing annoying squeaks and tightening screws.

YouTube and RV forums online have been helpful, but we've made some ridiculous beginner mistakes along the way. For example, we found that our city water connection (which allows you to hook up a freshwater hose at a campground to your RV's plumbing system) was leaking out the side of our RV soon after we bought it. We assumed something was broken. But after dealing with this issue for about a month, we determined we needed to put a rubber washer between the hose and our connector.

We've made other silly mistakes, but we've also become handier in our first six months of RVing. However, RVing will be easier from the start if you're already handy.

Related: What I learned on my RV trip from hell, and why it was still fun

Set a realistic itinerary

The final thing we've learned is to make a realistic itinerary. You might be able to drive a car eight hours straight and only stop once. But, when driving an RV, you'll likely tire much quicker. And, you should typically drive an RV slower than a car. For example, we find that our RV drives best when we go no faster than 65 miles per hour on the interstate.

And frankly, parking and setting up an RV in the dark isn't particularly safe or fun. So, we've learned to drive modest amounts (typically no further than 300 miles in a day) and try to stay at most locations for at least six or seven nights. After all, we want to stay long enough in each destination to enjoy the area while working full-time.

Related: How you plan and organize your trip says more about you than you think

Bottom line

Last year at this time, we had no intention of buying an RV and living out of it full-time. But, doing so has allowed us to remain nomadic and travel domestically during the coronavirus pandemic. And it's been a fun adventure. It's hard to say whether we'll still have the RV in six more months, as I hope we're back to our globetrotting full-time. But, we're enjoying RVing while it's the right choice for us. And we've certainly learned a lot in the last six months.

• (936) 327-8873
• [email protected]
• Mon - Fri: 9:00 - 5:00 Central

The Definitive Guide to Full-Time RV Living by Escapees RV Club

• Escapees RV Club
• June 21, 2023
• Full-Time RVing

If you’re considering full-time RV living, you might be feeling overwhelmed by everything there is to know and learn. Making the decision to take your entire life on the road is no small feat!

In this definitive guide to full-time RVing, we’re covering everything you need to know about the lifestyle and we’ve included links to our most helpful resources for full-time RVers throughout this content.

This guide covers:

• How to choose the best type of RV for full-timing
• RV money matters like cost, budget, making money, etc
• Legal matters for full-time RVers like domicile, physical address, etc
• Full-time RVing with kids
• Working from the road and finding remote work
• Getting internet on the road
• Finding your community
• Maintaining your RV
• Healthcare on the road
• And so much more.

The table of contents includes clickable headings so you can jump straight to the sections that interest you most if you’re short on time.

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Is Full-Time RVing? 

What’s the best type of rv to live in full-time , 25 questions to ask yourself when choosing an rv for the full-time rv life, setting a budget, full-time rv living expenses, legal matters when it comes to full-time rving, how to change your domicile, proving your domicile, how will my kids go to school, making space for everyone, are routines and schedules important, how do full-time rving kids meet other kids, mail forwarding options for rvers, using family and friends to forward your mail, mail forwarding with the united states postal service, rent a mailbox, pay for a professional mail forwarding service, package delivery options, cellular internet coverage, satellite internet, how to make money for the full-time rv lifestyle, what you should know about working from the road, remote work and rv travel, will you need reliable internet, remote work from your rv: more to think about, escapees rv club is a total support network for all rvers, how to find your community on the road, extended rv warranties, rv roadside assistance plans, diy rv preventive maintenance, learn more about safely operating and maintaining your rv with rv foundations from rvou, healthy diets and exercise, learn how to launch into full-time rv life with roadmap to full-time rving by rvers online university, wrapping up.

When people choose to move into their RV to live and travel full-time, that is full-time RV living or full-time RVing. It’s a conscious lifestyle choice to live more simply and to gather experiences instead of things. 

Full-time RV living for beginners can be especially daunting when you first consider it. This is because there is quite a bit of preparation and much to think about beforehand. This guide will help you along this journey as you take steps to realize your dream of the full-time RV life.

Do you dream of becoming a full-time RVer? If so, check out our premier online course: Roadmap to Full-Time RVing!

Roadmap to Full-Time RVing covers everything you need to know to become a full-time RVer, from downsizing and buying the perfect RV to how to find campgrounds and navigate your first challenges on the road! 

One of the first steps in becoming a full-time RVer is deciding which RV will be the best type to live in .

Not everyone will have the same requirements, so you’ll need to answer some questions. Think about how you plan to live, where you plan to travel and stay, and what your budget will be. This will now be your new home, so don’t take this decision lightly!

Understanding which questions to ask yourself will help you decide which RV will be the best for full-time RV living. These should help you get a good start on making your decision of choosing an RV .

RV Floor Plans

• Which floor plan best suits you and your needs?
• Are you traveling alone or with a family and/or pets?
• Do you need one bedroom or more?
• Do you need one bathroom or more?
• Do you need an office space for work or homeschool?
• Does the kitchen need a lot of counter space?
• Do you want slide-outs?
• Can you access everything you need such as the refrigerator and bathroom when the slide-outs are closed, and you are traveling?

RV Storage Space

• How much storage space will you need?
• Will you travel to places where you’ll need four seasons of clothing?
• Will you bring along a grill?
• How many kitchen appliances, dishes, and other kitchen tools do you really need?
• What about bed linens and towels?
• Will there need to be separate storage space for each family member’s personal items?
• What about storage for bicycles, kayaks, canoes, or other recreational items?
• Will you need storage for any other hobbies?

Types of RVs

• Do you want a towable RV or drivable RV ?
• Do you want a fifth wheel, bumper-pull travel trailer, motorhome, truck camper, or van and what size?
• Do you already own a vehicle that has the correct towing capacity for the size and weight of a towable RV?
• Are you confident with driving or towing a large RV? 

Camping Style

• What is your camping style?
• Will you be spending most of your time in RV parks, campgrounds, or RV resorts?
• Will you be doing more boondocking for free on public land?
• Will you be spending the night in rest areas or business parking lots as you travel from one destination to another?
• Will your RV need to be fully self-contained, or will you need to have full hook-ups at every destination?

Once you’ve answered all the questions and narrowed down your search, be sure to spend some time at RV shows where you can see and compare multiple RVs from multiple dealers at one time to find the RV of your dreams.

Join the club made for RVers, by RVers! We have been supporting the needs of full-time and part-time RVers since the 1970’s and have many resources and services to help you in your full-time RVing journey. A professional mail forwarding service, member benefits like education, discounts, a network of campgrounds, and so much more!

How Much Does It Cost to Live in an RV Full-Time? 

How much does full-time RV living cost? Well, the answer is, “It depends.” It all boils down to what your set expenses are, how much you plan to travel, where you plan to stay, and what you plan to do once you get to a destination. 

Having a set RV life budget each month will help you stay within your limits. But, how do you know what to put in that budget?

RVing full-time is different than living in a sticks-and-bricks home. You’ll have some different expenses while traveling that you may not have in your stationary home, but some will stay the same.

Begin by tracking your income and expenses for a few months before you set out on your full-time journey. You’ll then have an idea of what you need to pay for and what can be negotiable or eliminated altogether. 

Fixed expenses are items like your monthly RV loan payment, an auto loan, health insurance, auto insurance, full-time RV insurance, internet, RV club memberships, other outstanding loan payments, and cell phone plan payment(s), to name a few.

Items that fluctuate but still need to be accounted for will be fuel costs when traveling and touring new areas, campground fees, grocery costs, propane, RV and auto repairs, and entertainment costs. 

If you plan to stay in RV parks, campgrounds, or resorts, your expenses will be higher. This is like paying rent, only it changes every time you move your RV to the next destination. However, if you choose to boondock on public land you can save a great deal of money because you can stay for free. 

It’s always a good idea to have a fund set aside for RV repairs and/or auto repairs. You don’t want to be blindsided by the cost of an RV repair, but if there is a cushion in your budget to cover these types of surprises, then the repairs won’t break the bank.

Sometimes you’ll look at your budget and decide whether you can go out to eat or will need to stay in, depending on how much you spent in fuel while traveling to your destination. Sometimes you’ll have carry-over funds that will allow you to explore an area more fully. Either way, sticking to a budget will allow you to live a comfortable full-time RV life.

Wondering what to do to legally become a full-time RVer? The first thing to decide is where you’ll legally set up your domicile . Many people think domicile is simply a state of residence, but it’s a bit more than that. Domicile is showing a truthful intent to be physically present in a state and to return to it after you leave.

Popular Domicile Locations for RVers

Texas, Florida, and South Dakota are popular domicile choices for full-time RV living . But, these are obviously not the only states you can choose. Your needs are different and will be determined by many variables only you must consider when choosing a domicile.

Items such as income tax, health insurance, vehicle registrations, and where you wish to vote are just some of the variables that will need to be reviewed and decided upon before changing your domicile. These are the things that will prove you are serious about making the move to your new domicile. Maybe your domicile will end up being the state you had planned to leave, and you won’t have to change your domicile at all.

The first step in deciding your domicile will be to take all your state-specific expenses and compare them to the other states you are considering for your domicile. Costs such as health insurance, state income tax, vehicle registrations, sales tax, personal property taxes, and so on should be listed. 

Keep in mind, for example, that even though health insurance premiums may be cheaper in one state, you may not be getting the best health care coverage compared to another state with higher premiums. So, compare all parts of these state-specific expenses. Once you have the comparisons done, you’ll be able to narrow down which state or states will best fit your needs and lifestyle.

Once you choose your state of domicile, you will need to do things to establish yourself in that state so you can prove your intent to domicile there, should the need arise. This means things like making connections with doctors, registering your vehicles in that state, registering to vote, etc.

Learn more in our guide: The Ultimate Guide for Residency and Domicile as a Full-Time RVer.

Once you’ve chosen the state you will call your domicile, it’s time to set up a mailing address. When you have your new address, you can begin the process of registering your vehicles, getting a new driver’s license, and registering to vote. In addition, you will want to set up a bank account, update any vehicle insurance, get health insurance in that state, find a doctor and dentist, and visit a lawyer to update your Last Will and Testament. 

There is more, but this will depend on what you need to transfer from your former state to your new domicile state. The point is to make a paper trail that will prove to your new state your intention of making it your new home and to your former state of residence that you have abandoned that state.

All you have to do now is plan your travels and include a stop in your new state every year to maintain your intention to call it home.

Full-Time RVing With Kids

If you think you can’t RV full time with kids, then you haven’t met some of the families already out on the road giving their kids unforgettable experiences. From managing everyone’s things to homeschooling and making sure their kids get to meet other kids, these families have figured it out.

If you have school-aged kids, how your children will go to school while living full-time in your RV is one of the first topics you’ll think about very seriously. From free, online homeschool options to curriculums you can teach to your kids, there are many programs available for you to homeschool your children. 

Keep in mind that your domicile state may have regulations and laws you must follow like reporting to a school district or sending achievement test scores. Make sure to check these laws before you begin so you know what to expect. The best part of full-time RVing with your kids is tying into their homeschool experience information about all the places your family gets to visit. Their learning experiences become richer. 

How do you handle clothes, homeschool materials, hobbies, toys, and more when you live in your RV full-time with your family? You may want to choose an RV that has space for everyone, for obvious reasons. Think about the questions mentioned above when deciding on the type of RV you feel you will need for your family. Do you need separate sleeping areas and desk space away from your kids?

Do you need storage space that can easily be organized by and for your kids? Asking yourself questions such as these will help you find the RV that will work for you and your family.

Just like in a stationary home, if you choose full-time RV living with your kids, you’ll need to set routines and schedules for school, play, and chores. Will the RV feel crowded when many things are not in their given space during these busy times? Yes. But when you create systems with your kids to clean up and organize the RV , everyone can share in making it a livable space so it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly small.

How will your kids meet other kids while RVing? There are quite a few options, you just need to put in a little more work because you’re traveling. It’s normal to worry that they might be lonely on the road , but RV life can be fulfilling for them, too. Social media is one way to connect with many families at once. While not in person, you can get to know other families and then plan to meet up along your travel routes. There are many ways for your kids to make friends on the road.

When you sign up for RV club events geared toward families, or that include families, your kids will get to meet others in person. For the most part, kids are naturals at making friends so you most likely won’t have to force them together during the activities. After these events, it isn’t unusual for families to continue traveling together so create some bonds with the other parents, too!

If your kids feel sad when separating from their newfound friends, help them stay connected through phone calls, social media, video calls, online gaming, and watching movies online together in real-time. There are endless possibilities for you to keep them connected and they’ll likely remain friends for years to come.

How to Get Mail on the Road

We know you have questions about how to get mail while traveling .  Fortunately, you have multiple options for mail forwarding, retailers can send packages to pick-up lockers, and you can find plenty of package delivery companies with brick-and-mortar stores near where you stay to have packages delivered. 

Mail forwarding can be done by

• asking family or friends to hold or forward your mail
• using USPS 
• getting a mailbox at a local UPS store
• using professional RV mail forwarding services, like  Escapees RV Club’s Mail Service

Asking family or friends to forward your mail will require that they are responsible, organized, and have the time it takes to handle your mail efficiently. This method is the cheapest so if you’re on a budget this may be the way to go.

Keep in mind, however, that mixing your legal address with a family member’s or friend’s address when you are a full-time RVer can create the presumption that the friend or family member’s address is the address where you plan to permanently return. If you never or rarely plan to return, your domicile could be in jeopardy so this option would not be the best fit.

Using the United States Postal Service for mail forwarding can be done if you plan to stay in one place for a long period of time. But for full-time RV living and traveling, it isn’t the best option. However, you can use General Delivery to have someone else forward your mail to a Post Office near where you are staying. Just be sure to call ahead to see if the Post Offices you plan to use accept items addressed to General Delivery .

The USPS also has its free Informed Delivery program. This can help you narrow down the types of mail you can request to have forwarded by sending you an email digest of photos of the envelopes and packages you will be receiving. No one really wants to have their junk mail forwarded so this works very well to keep forwarding costs down!

When you need consistent mail forwarding, renting a mailbox at brick-and-mortar stores like The UPS Store is not recommended. First, full-time RVers don’t usually stay in one place long enough for the fees charged to be cost-effective. Secondly, even though they may advertise having a street address with their service, you may have difficulties if you want to use it to establish your domicile.

One of the best ways to go if you travel full-time is to use a professional mail forwarding service like the one at the Escapees RV Club. The Escapees RV Club mail forwarding service has options for you, the full-time RVer, that include mail scanning, customized forwarding categories, one-time or regularly scheduled mail forwarding, email notification of mail forwarded along with a tracking number, and access to your mail account online or via our mobile app.

The Escapees RV Club mail service is a reliable and affordable option making sure you get your mail and packages on time, when you need them. Take a look inside our mail service at the Escapees headquarters here.

Learn about how the Escapees RV Club Mail Forwarding Service works here.

Learn More About The Escapees RV Club Mail Forwarding Service for RVers

We operate the oldest and largest private mail service in the country, and it was made specifically for RVers! Learn about pricing, packages, and more here. 

Sometimes you will need to receive packages in addition to your regular mail. The Escapees RV Club mail forwarding service can accept mail and packages, but those will need to be forwarded to your location.

This isn’t always the best option when you have time-sensitive RV parts or perishable goods coming your way. So, why not just use the delivery options available from online retailers?

Online retailers have many delivery location options in towns and cities where you will travel. In addition to sending packages directly to the RV park where you are staying, online retailers can deliver your packages to brick-and-mortar stores such as the UPS Store and FedEx Office, Print, and Ship Centers, as well as to lockers specifically set up in convenient locations for you to pick up, as is the case with Amazon and Walmart.

Make sure you give very specific delivery instructions if necessary and type the address correctly when ordering, and bring your photo identification when you go to pick up your package. If you use a pick-up locker, you will be given a specific code that will open the locker just for you. 

Getting mail and packages has never been easier for full-time RVers, you just need to plan a little more than you would if you were living long-term in one location.

How to Get Internet as a Full-Time RVer

As you think about diving into full-time RV living, you’ll most likely want to stay connected to friends and family who are still living in one location. You may even plan to work remotely while you travel. For either reason, you’ll need to have access to the internet. 

There are many ways to get internet while you’re traveling. From RV park and campground WiFi, cellular internet, and hotspots, to satellite internet, there is a lot to cover. For this guide, we’ll take you through each one and provide links along the way for more in-depth coverage.

If there’s one thing you should know going into your full-time RVing journey, it’s to not rely solely on RV park WiFi. Sadly, RV park and campground WiFi is notoriously unreliable.

However, if you happen to find the needle in the haystack of reliable campground WiFi, you can connect directly with your device(s) or use a wireless router that supports connecting to an external wireless network, and then share it with your existing network. To boost it even more, go with a router that supports an external antenna or one that is completely outside. 

Cellular phones and hotspots are more reliable and use cellular tower signals to provide you with a connection to the internet. Keep in mind, however, that your signal and speed will vary depending on tower coverage, how many customers are using a tower when you may need it most, and the type of connection the tower has to the outside world. 

Redundancy is key if you plan to rely only on cellular coverage. This means having more than one option in case one doesn’t work in some places. Make sure you subscribe to at least two cellular carriers so that if one does not work in an area you can use the other, especially if you are working remotely or homeschooling your kids. 

Each cellular carrier has a coverage map so you can roughly tell if an area you would like to stay in has adequate coverage for what you need. In addition to cellular coverage maps, there are camping apps available where reviewers report cellular coverage and speed test results. Utilize these and you’re likely to find a spot that will meet your cellular coverage needs.

Satellite internet has really become popular with RVers within the last couple of years, especially with the emergence of Space X’s Starlink. Unlike geostationary satellite options like HughesNet, Starlink uses low-earth-orbit satellite technology.

The cost is now more within the reach of many RVers’ budgets than in years past and has higher speeds with lower latency, making it a viable option for you while full-time RV living. Unfortunately, you always need a clear view of the sky for your antenna, so parking under trees is not recommended.

One last reminder: there can be outages with any service you decide upon, not all areas are conducive to accessing the best signal, and some areas are just too crowded for your internet speed to be usable.

So, regardless of the internet option you choose, we cannot stress enough that you should plan to have more than one way to stay connected if you rely heavily on the internet for your job or school.

Although older generations choose to RV when they stop working, full-time RV living for beginners isn’t reserved only for retirees. As RVing becomes a more cost-effective way to travel for people who are still working-age, there is an increasing need to work while traveling. But how do you make money to fund your full-time RV lifestyle?

There are multiple options that allow you to make money while on the road. Seasonal jobs , or work camping, are those that you may already be familiar with. There are also long-term contracts available for travel nurses and others in the medical field as well as those who choose to work as a gate guard for the oil industry , to name a couple. In addition, maybe you can take your current job on the road as a remote worker. 

Camp hosting, Amazon Workforce, and beet harvests are a few work camping jobs that require you to remain in one spot for a season. You are paid only for that season, but it can allow you to save up so you can travel the rest of the year without having to work. 

Long-term contract positions like travel nurses usually have set dates that a job starts and ends. These workers travel for fun in between contracts or go directly from one contract to another.

Do you plan to start your full-time journey by taking your job or business on the road with you from the beginning? You may be able to transition from a stationary location to working from your RV. While you may have to work hard to convince the company you work for that working remotely would not have any effect on your performance, you may instead work for a company that has no problem with where you choose to work, especially when you’ve been working remotely since the recent pandemic.

You can learn more about how established full-time RVers are earning money from the road in our 2-part series: Advice from Working RVers.

• Full-Time RVers Working From the Road: Advice From Full-Time RVers Part 1
• Working Remotely As a Full-Time RVer: Advice from Full-Time RVers Part 2

How to Find Jobs for RVers: The RVer Job Exchange

If you are wondering where you can find a job that will allow you to work from your RV, try out the RVer Job Exchange .

This service is part of the Escapees RV Club and caters to job seekers who are looking for a remote, virtual, or telecommuting job offer. It’s for anyone who is looking to find full-time, part-time, or temporary job opportunities that fit your travel lifestyle.

Freelancers and project-based professionals looking to list your services are welcome, too! If you’re looking for supplemental income and to remain professionally active and if you’re a nomad of any kind, this job board was made for you.

Create a profile for free, create your resume using the tools available, then browse and apply for jobs you think would be a good fit for you.

Full-time RV living for people who also want to work from the road isn’t for the spontaneous traveler.

Working from the road requires forethought and preparation. If you want to make a living while traveling, you should know how work can affect your travel.

You’ll need to maintain reliable internet, to know what your workspace will look like, to know what your tax preparation will look like, and how you’ll combat the loneliness if you were used to having office friends, just to name a few. 

You may enjoy reading this piece on How to Survive the Challenges of Working on the Road.

How does a remote work schedule affect your travel? It really depends on how flexible your job is. If you work a regular Monday through Friday job, then your travel may be limited to the weekends. This may or may not work out for you depending on if you stay in RV parks and campgrounds or if you boondock. 

RV parks are fuller on the weekends, so finding a spot may be troublesome unless you reserve a site weeks in advance.

If you boondock, it’s easier to find spots to camp unless it’s a popular place during the season. With RVing becoming more popular, you may be taking a chance by trying to find your favorite spot during a weekend.

Before you move to a new place to camp, it’s best to find out if your new destination will have reliable internet (see the section above about How To Get Internet as a Full-Time RVer). This could also affect your travel plans. 

You may find that you read outdated information about the internet options at that location and it isn’t good enough for you to work, causing you to have to move down the road. You don’t want to do this during a workday so it will have to be on your day off. 

If you waited to travel until the last day of your weekend you may be scrambling to find a new spot where the internet is reliable enough for you to work the rest of the week. Planning ahead is key and having a backup location helps to avoid last-minute moving.

What do you need for a comfortable workspace? While some RV manufacturers add desk space, RVs don’t always have designated workspaces. There is usually a dinette or dining table and chairs, which are not known to be ergonomic.

And if you’re wondering what’s the best RV for working remotely , it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer!

While many RV manufacturers are catching onto the remote work trend and adding office space, many older and used RVs don’t have quite the setup. You may have to redesign a space in your RV to include a desk and chair that best meets your needs.

For ideas of how full-time RVers have made their own DIY workspaces, check out our popular Xscapers article, RV Mobile Workspaces: An Office With a View.

You need to know the tax implications, the ins and outs of insurance, and even how your RV warranty can be affected by working from your RV while you stay in different locations if you run your own business or even work for an employer. Be sure to check with a tax specialist, insurance broker, and any other expert designed to help you so you can stay ahead of any legal and/or financial implications.

If remote work or running your own business from your RV doesn’t sound like it would fit your personality because of the potential for loneliness, then you may be better off finding a job as a work camper. Work camping gives you more opportunities to work with others, especially if you are a campground host, work on a farm during harvest, or even if you work on a Christmas tree lot. So, be sure to choose work that best suits your personality.

The bottom line is that working while on the road can give you more opportunities for a life of freedom, but you still need to plan more often than you might think.

RV Memberships and Campground Discounts

RV memberships and campground discounts are a great way to save money while living full-time in your RV. RV memberships typically have multiple benefits and campground discounts can add up if you plan to stay mostly in campgrounds, RV parks, or RV resorts.

RV club memberships like the Escapees RV Club not only offer campground discounts, but include other benefits such as mail forwarding service, roadside assistance coverage, RV education courses, and other discounts on RV products and services. 

Learn more with the Ultimate Guide to Escapees RV Club here .

Campgrounds typically give discounts to RVers who are members of clubs such as Passport America, AAA, and AARP, to name a few. Be sure to use them! Even if they only save you a few dollars a night on your campground fee, it’s worth the effort to dig out that membership card.

In addition to campground discounts, there are other discount RV parking options you can take advantage of.

Boondockers Welcome, Harvest Hosts, Thousand Trails, and other memberships allow you to stay for free (or a very nominal fee) at their locations after you have paid your annual membership fee. Look into these if you feel they would meet your full-time RV living and traveling needs.

Don’t forget about reciprocal discounts and memberships, too! Some clubs offer discounts to other clubs and organizations as part of a mutual agreement.

For example, Escapees RV Club members can save on memberships to camping programs such as Harvest Hosts, Boondockers Welcome, and Passport America. Learn about our member benefits and discounts here.

Full-time RV living for beginners can be especially hard at first because as new RVers you can’t seem to find your community of like-minded friends. We suggest looking into and joining an RV club that has a social media presence as well as in-person events. 

Through their social media platforms you can meet others who seem to be like you. Then, make plans to meet at an event so you can get to know each other even better. Even if you don’t meet online at first, going to an event in person will let you see first-hand who may have similar values, family situations, personality traits, and more for you to connect through.

Community is at the heart of Escapees RV Club. We provide many services and benefits to help make your life as a full-time RVer easier, but we wouldn’t be anything without our community! Learn more about the benefits of an Escapees membership here.

The Escapees RV Club has quite a few in-person social events for you to choose from.

We have events like Xscapers Convergences that are geared toward working-age RVers (even if you have a family or not), Hangouts if you are an active but retired RVer, and even HOPS (Head-Out Program) for when you want a more “white glove,” all-inclusive trip with or without your RV. Our events are where you will likely find life-long friends to frequently travel and stay in touch with all year-round.

If you would prefer to meet up with just a few other RVers instead of at a larger event, find and talk to other RVers in RVing online groups, chats, and forums. Then, discuss how to (safely) meet up in person. You can find these groups on Facebook, Meetup, RVNetwork.com , and iRV2, just to name a few.

How to Protect & Maintain Your RV While Living on the Road

Full-time RV living isn’t much different than living in a sticks-and-bricks when it comes to protecting and maintaining what you live in. The RV is now your home and it will still have maintenance needs. The difference is that this home is on wheels and there is more wear and tear on certain parts because of traveling, causing them to break.

Fortunately, knowing how to maintain your own RV, along with subscribing to services that help when it breaks, can save you from too much stress and financial burden.

Extended RV warranties are extra coverage that steps in to pay the repair cost of mechanical and electrical failures in your rig. As RVs become more complex, skilled RV mechanics are in more demand causing the average cost of repair bills to rise dramatically. 

Can your budget handle such a potentially large repair bill? If your answer is no, then you may want to consider an extended RV warranty. Make sure you look deeply into the types of policies available and choose the one that will best suit your needs. Always look carefully at what is NOT covered by each policy so you will not get caught without the coverage you may need.

An RV roadside assistance plan like Escapees Roadside Assistance is a must when you become a full-time RVer. You do not want to be stranded along the side of the road without a cost-effective way to get your RV to a repair shop. 

RV roadside assistance plans typically cover towing to an approved repair shop, tire changes, battery charging, fuel delivery, lockout services, trip interruption, and more for a reasonable annual fee. Think about just one of those issues and how much it would cost to solve on your own, and you’ll realize that it could cost more than the annual fee for a roadside assistance plan. The peace of mind you have knowing you’ll be covered in the event of a breakdown then becomes priceless.

An RV is like a house in that there is always maintenance that needs to be done. Learning how to do much of the maintenance yourself will help keep costs down in addition to the time you’ll save trying to get an appointment at a busy RV repair shop. 

There are many resources available from seasoned full-time RVers on many of the common maintenance tasks.

Escapees RV Club has our own educational resource called RVers Online University, with online courses that teach you about various aspects of RVing. Our RV Foundations Course covers the following topics and more! Maintenance RVers typically do themselves can include but is not limited to:

• inspecting and resealing door, window, and roof seals 
• resealing the roof
• sanitizing the fresh water system
• cleaning the air conditioning unit
• lubricating slide-out seals
• changing the motor oil of your RV and/or generator
• flushing and cleaning the hot water tank 
• changing the anode rod of the hot water heater (if yours has one)
• testing for propane leaks in the regulator, propane lines, and connections
• cleaning the access point, igniter, burner, and fins of the absorption refrigerator
• cleaning the outside vent, access point, blower wheel, and inside of duct work of the forced-air furnace
• checking and adding distilled water to flooded lead-acid batteries
• testing smoke, carbon monoxide, and LP detectors
• checking and replacing brakes on your RV
• checking tire pressure

Keep track of your maintenance tasks with a checklist and write the date when you have completed each one. You’ll get a sense of satisfaction after each completed task and can use the money you saved on even more adventures.

Do you want to learn more about RV preventative maintenance so you can save yourself costly repairs and protect your investment?

Visit RVers Online University today to learn more about RV preventative maintenance, RV safety, and much more!  Taught by RV-industry experts, RVers Online University helps you save money and enjoy life on the road.

Staying Healthy and Getting Healthcare on the Road

As we mentioned earlier, getting healthcare while full-time RV living is one of the tasks you need to think of when deciding on your domicile. Think of the variables that would affect your choice. Since healthcare is a very individual decision and health insurance choices are often state-specific , these questions can help you get started.

• Are you over 65? If so, can you rely on Medicare alone?
• Does your employer cover your healthcare? Is it nationwide or regional only? Does it include telehealth?
• Do you have any pre-existing conditions? 
• Do you take medications?
• Do you qualify for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans? How many are available in your domicile state? Do they cover emergency care outside of your domicile state?
• Can you afford higher health insurance premiums or higher deductibles?
• Is it possible you would need regular, non-emergency care outside your domicile state ? What are the options for this?
• Are you comfortable with options outside of traditional health care insurance like health sharing plans, short-term insurance, memberships for concierge medicine, fixed-indemnity plans, etc.?

There are more questions each RVer will need to answer individually to complete a healthcare search. However, once a decision is made and a doctor is chosen, you can start making necessary appointments for maintaining your health while you travel.

Another way to maintain good health while full-time RV living is to create healthy habits such as eating healthy foods and exercising. 

While you may think it would be hard to maintain a healthy diet when traveling, it can be done. Make it fun! For example, while you explore new areas, visit farmers’ markets and grocery stores to find local produce then make a meal with it in your own RV kitchen. 

Even though as a full-time RVer you’ll travel frequently, you can still find time and activities to get your body moving to get and stay healthy. From strength training using body-weight exercises to hiking, biking, and yoga, there are so many options for you. Pick some based on how much space you have in your RV, set up a consistent schedule, and stick to it.

Whether virtually or in person, make it even more fun by exercising with friends. It’s a great way to get healthy and nurture community at the same time.

How to Plan Your Launch to Full-Time RVing

When first deciding to become a full-time RVer, there are so many things to think about that you may become a bit overwhelmed. Breaking down the process into manageable steps will help decrease any stress you may feel. 

Create a to-do list but separate it into categories to make it feel more manageable. Then start tackling things one at a time while keeping your launch date at the forefront of your mind, even if it is years away. The categories can be exactly what we covered in this guide and what we teach in our RVers Online University course: Roadmap to Full-Time RVing!

One thing we did not discuss, however, is downsizing. You’ll be moving into a much smaller space than you may be used to so add this to your list. Downsizing includes moving out of, selling, or renting your home and what you plan to store, give away, sell, or keep from the household and personal items you have accumulated over the years. 

This can be one of the most challenging tasks to do because of the sentimental attachment you have to the things that surround you every day. Be gentle with yourself and go at your own pace, completing one room or space at a time before moving on to the next. Take breaks for as long as you need. Just keep your launch date in mind and you will stay motivated to get it done.

Realizing your dream of full-time RV living is not impossible. Many RVers launch into this lifestyle every year by following in the footsteps of full-time RVers before them. By using this guide, you too can learn how to manage each step along the way as others have successfully done before you. We look forward to seeing you down the road.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Escapees RV Club News!

Escapees rv club news.

Sign up for Escapees RV Club News and Never Miss a Thing!

Find your community at escapees events, voyage of the vikings cruise hop 2024, chapter 6 rally, chapter 2 rally, chapter 24 rally.

• Google Calendar
• Outlook 365
• Outlook Live
• Export .ics file
• Export Outlook .ics file

Learn to RV with Escapees!

Whether you’re a part-time or full-time RVer, you can learn to RV with our in-person and online training. 

RVers Boot Camp is your in-person opportunity to learn directly from RVing experts.

RVers Online University allows you to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your own home or RV.

Never miss a post.

Sign up for escapees rv club news now.

<h3>The<a href=”https://member.escapees.com/”> member.escapees.com</a> website including the store will be down for maintenance starting on July 19, 2022, which is expected to take up to 3 days.</h3> <p> If you need to update your mailing instructions email <a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected]</a>. For assistance with other services such as joining Escapees or renewing, please call our headquarters at 936-327-8873 or email <a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected]</a>. <br> If you would like to register for an event, please call our registration department at: 936-755-1060. We apologize for the inconvenience.</p>

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

LICENSE AGREEMENT

This Agreement is effective on the date the Intellectual Property is downloaded by the Licensee.

A. Licensor is in the business of providing a total support network for all recreational vehicle enthusiasts (“RVers”/ “RVing Community.”) and owns the Intellectual Property, the form of which, is set forth at escapees.com hereby incorporated by reference.

B. Licensee wishes to use the Intellectual Property, for one of the following uses: personal blogs, personal YouTube channels or similar web-based channels, and/or personal websites. The use shall be selected at the time the Licensee downloads the Intellectual Property; and, the use shall hereby be incorporated by reference into this Agreement. The use of the Intellectual Property shall not be commercial in nature.

C. Licensor is willing to grant the Licensee a license to use the Intellectual Property on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants and agreements set forth below, the parties hereto covenant and agree as follows:

Article II: License

A. The Licensor hereby grants to the Licensee, and the Licensee hereby accepts, a nonexclusive, nontransferable license (the “License”) to use the Intellectual Property.

B. No other right or license is granted by Licensor to Licensee or by Licensee to Licensor, either express or implied, with respect to any other trademark, trade name, service mark, or other intellectual property right owned, possessed, or licensed by or to Licensor. Licensee shall not use the Intellectual Property in any manner not specifically authorized by this Agreement.

Article III: Operation under License

A. The Licensee must obtain all governmental permits, licenses, registrations, and approvals needed to produce and market the Product or provide the Service and must operate under the License in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Specifically, but without limitation, when using any of the Intellectual Property, the Licensee must comply with all laws relating to intellectual property in force, including marking requirements. At the request of Licensor, and without compensation to Licensee, Licensee shall promptly do such acts and execute, acknowledge, and deliver all such papers as may be necessary or desirable, in the sole discretion of Licensor, to obtain, maintain, protect, and/or vest in Licensor the entire right, title, and interest in and to any Intellectual Property; including rendering such assistance as Licensor may request in any litigation, Patent and Trademark Office proceeding, or other proceeding. All use of any Intellectual Property by Licensee on any good shall inure to the benefit and be the property of Licensor.

B. The Licensee may use the Intellectual Property only in connection with goods manufactured, distributed, and sold by or for, and/or services provided by or for, the Licensee in accordance with the specifications, directions, and processes furnished to the Licensor by the Licensee or its representatives and agents from time to time; and, the quality of all goods sold under the Intellectual Property must be satisfactory to the Licensor or as specified by the Licensor. The Licensee must furnish to the Licensor, upon request, with samples of goods sold or distributed, and/or examples of how Licensee provides services, using one or more of the Intellectual Property. In addition, in order to assure that the development, manufacture, appearance, quality, and distribution of the Product and/or Service are consonant with the Intellectual Property used to identify it or them, Licensor retains the right to participate at each stage of development of any Product or any other Material Requiring Approval and to approve or disapprove of any development, manufacture, appearance, quality, and/or distribution.

C. Whenever the Licensee uses any of the Intellectual Property, in advertising or in connection with goods that it sells or distributes, the Intellectual Property must be displayed in accordance with specifications and directions furnished by the Licensor to the Licensee, from time to time. Licensee shall use upon or in connection with the Product, and/or Service, where a United States Federal Trademark Registration has been obtained, the symbol ®. Licensee shall not otherwise affix or use such in connection with nor use any other trademark or trade name in connection with the Product without Licensor’s prior written approval. The Licensee must also clearly indicate the Licensor’s ownership of the Intellectual Property whenever one of the Intellectual Property is used. Licensee agrees to use such copyright notice as may be prescribed by legal counsel for Licensor, from time-to-time.

Article IV: Assignment and Subleasing

A. This Agreement and the License are personal to the Licensee, and the Licensee may not assign or sublicense any of the rights granted to the Licensee under this Agreement without the advance written consent of the Licensor, which consent may be withheld for any reason whatsoever. Any purported assignment or sublicense by the Licensee (or by operation of law) that is not approved in writing by the Licensor will be null and void and of no legal effect whatsoever.

B. This Agreement may be assigned by the Licensor to any person or entity whatsoever.

Article V: Licensorship and Protection of Intellectual Property

The Licensee acknowledges the Licensor’s exclusive right, title, and interest in the Intellectual Property and will not at any time do or cause to be done any act or thing contesting or in any way impairing or tending to impair any part of such right, title, and interest. Specifically, but without limitation, the Licensee will at no time adopt or use any word or mark that is likely to be similar to or confusing with the Intellectual Property. In connection with use of the Intellectual Property, the Licensee will not in any manner represent that it has ownership of the Intellectual Property or any registration thereof, and the Licensee acknowledges that use of the Intellectual Property will not create in the Licensee’s favor any right, title, or interest in or to the Intellectual Property, but all uses of the Intellectual Property by the Licensee, including any goodwill generated by such use, will inure to the benefit of the Licensor. The Licensor will be responsible for trademark registrations and must use commercially reasonable efforts to file, prosecute, and maintain all trademark and related registrations and registration applications for the Intellectual Property.

Article VI: Infringement

Only the Licensor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to prosecute any infringement of the Intellectual Property. The Licensee must promptly inform the Licensor of any infringement that comes to the Licensee’s attention, regardless of whether the Licensee elects to prosecute the infringement.

Article VII: Licensor’s Warranties and Representations

The Licensor is the sole Licensor of the Intellectual Property and has a good right to license the rights in the Intellectual Property to the Licensee in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

Article VIII: Indemnity

A. Licensee represents and warrants that it has the right to enter into this Agreement and to agree to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The Licensee agrees that it will indemnify and hold harmless the Licensor , and its directors, officers, employees, shareholders, partners, agents, and affiliates, against all controversies, disputes, claims, liability, and expenses (including legal fees) relating to this Agreement, whether sounding in contract, tort or otherwise, brought by a third party.

B. Licensee shall promptly notify the Licensor of any claim, in writing; and, Licensee shall cooperate with the Licensor in the defense of any claim.

Article IX: Term and Termination

A. The term of the License will commence on the date of this Agreement and will continue in effect for a period of one (1) year. At the expiration of the initial one-year term of the License, or any renewal thereof, the License will be renewed for a period of one year beginning on the date of the expiration of the prior term, unless either the Licensor or the Licensee gives written notice of termination to the other not later than thirty (30) days before the expiration of the prior term. If notice of termination is given, the License will terminate on the expiration of the existing term.

B. The Licensor may, at its option, terminate the License prior to the end of its term by written notice to the Licensee if Licensee violates any of the terms of this Agreement.

C. Termination or expiration of the License will not in any way operate to impair or destroy any of the Licensor’s or the Licensee’s preexisting rights or remedies, either at law or in equity.

D. Immediately following the termination or expiration of the License, all rights granted to Licensee hereunder shall automatically revert to Licensor and Licensee shall execute any and all documents evidencing such automatic reversion; and, the Licensee must cease and desist from all use of the Intellectual Property in any way and deliver to the Licensor all material and papers on which the Intellectual Property appear that are in the Licensee’s possession.

E. Licensee shall, within three (3) months after such expiration or termination, deliver to Licensor a complete and accurate statement indicating that all existing inventories of Product have been destroyed and all references to Intellectual Property have been removed from Licensee’s properties.

Article X: Relationship

A. The relationship between the Licensor and the Licensee is that of licensor and licensee, and it is not the purpose or intention of this agreement or of the parties to create a partnership, joint venture, principal-agent, or other relationship for any purpose whatsoever. Neither the Licensor nor the Licensee is authorized to or has the power to obligate or bind the other party in any manner whatsoever except as may be expressly provided in this Agreement.

Article XI: Binding Effect

A. The provisions of this Agreement will be binding on and inure to the benefit of the heirs, personal representatives, successors, and assigns (where applicable) of the parties.

Article XII: Notice

A. All notices and other communications between the parties must be in writing. B. Notices must be given by (i) personal delivery, (ii) a nationally-recognized, next-day courier service, (iii) first-class registered or certified mail, postage prepaid to the party’s address specified in this agreement, or to the address that a party has notified to be that party’s address for the purposes of this section, (iv) or via email. C. A Notice given in accordance with this Agreement will be effective upon receipt by the party to which it is given or, if mailed, upon the earlier of receipt and the fifth Business Day following mailing.

Licensor: Teresa Moore, COO Escapees, Inc. 100 Rainbow Drive Livingston, Texas 77351

______ ______ ______, ______ ______

Article XIII: Attorney’s Fees

In the event of any controversies, disputes, and/or claims arising out of or relating to this Agreement, whether sounding in contract, tort, or otherwise, each party shall bear its own costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred in connection with such action. Article XIV: Confidentiality

Licensee shall maintain the confidentiality of all trade and proprietary secrets that may be disclosed in the course of providing the services under this agreement. Licensor shall identify to Licensee in advance and in writing any information or data deemed a trade or proprietary secret. ARTICLE XV: CHOICE OF LAW The parties agree that the laws of Texas shall govern this Agreement and all controversies, disputes and claims relating to, in connection with or arising out of this Agreement or breach of this Agreement, whether sounding in contract, tort, or otherwise, and whether settled by binding arbitration or by a court of competent jurisdiction. Article XVI: Waiver A party’s failure or neglect to enforce any of its rights under this agreement will not be deemed to be a waiver of that rights or any other of its rights. Article XVII: Headings and Construction The section headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement. Article XVIII: Counterparts The parties to this Agreement may sign this Agreement in any number of counterparts, each of which is an original and all of which taken together form one single document. Moreover, this Agreement shall become effective when each of the parties to this Agreement sign one or more counterparts and delivered the signed counterpart to each of the other parties to this Agreement, in accordance with ARTICLE II: NOTICE of this Agreement. Article XIX: Severability If any term or provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect, and, that illegal, invalid, or unenforceable term or provision shall be modified to the extent necessary to render such term or provision enforceable. The rights and obligations of the parties shall be construed and enforced accordingly, preserving to the fullest permissible extent the intent and agreements of the parties, without frustrating the purpose of the Agreement. Article XX: Entire Agreement, Modification and Integration A. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. Each party acknowledges that in entering into this Agreement it does not rely on, and shall have no remedies in respect of, any representation or warranty (whether made expressly or impliedly) that is not set out in this agreement. B. This Agreement may not be modified other than in a writing, dated, executed by an authorized representative of both parties, stating its intent to modify or supersede this Agreement and delivered in accordance with the Notice clause of this Agreement. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Licensor has caused this Agreement to be executed by offering the Intellectual Property for download on escapees.com; and, Licensee has caused this Agreement to be executed personally or, as appropriate, by its duly authorized officers by downloading the Intellectual Property.

Request for Escapees/Xscapers Logo Use

Please tell us more about your project and we will get back to you shortly with information on using our brand elements in your project.

• Name * First Last
• Project Type * Film Television Online Video (Youtube, etc) Podcast Advertisement Physical Product or Packaging Other
• Describe your project in as much detail as possible *
• Design Sample Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, pdf, doc, , Max. file size: 5 MB. If possible, please upload a sample to show how you intend to use the Escapees/Xscapers logo in your project.
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

We are no longer accepting new reservations for the Winter Home Base Hangouts, as this program ends on February 28, 2021.

42 Years of Escapees - Share Your Story

Escapees is celebrating 42 years of fun, friends, and RVing in 2020! Whether you’re a new member or have been celebrating with us the whole time, we know you have many good memories of Escapees gatherings, friends, and good times. We want you to share those memories with us and the whole community through stories, photos, or both! Let's make the next 42 years as fun as the last 42 years.

• Name First Last
• Tell us about your memory. *
• Upload Your Photos Drop files here or Select files Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, Max. file size: 10 MB. empty to support CSS :empty selector. -->

Stay up-to-date with Club news, blog posts, events, and more. This bi-weekly newsletter is full of everything you want to know.

• First Name *

How To Prepare For A Life Of Full-Time Traveling

In September of 2017, one year after we met, we were sitting at North Avenue Beach in Chicago and I told Gordon; hey, what do you think if we try to make money while living a life of full time traveling? That’s all it took.

Let’s rewind.

A couple of weeks before that day at the beach, a friend introduced me to a family who was traveling the world full time with their kids and documenting their adventures on YouTube and Instagram ( @thebucketlistfamily ). I watched like 10 of their videos and that’s when the seed was planted. Fast forward to that day at the beach, I asked G if that was something he’d consider doing with his life. To my surprise, he said yes.

I honestly thought he didn’t mean it. He would have to quit his job as a consultant and start a new career as a videographer/photographer/content creator (while not liking cameras LOL). However, that evening we came home and started working on a spreadsheet with a list of all the places we wanted to visit and what we wanted to accomplish from our crazy adventure. Our lives changed after that day and it all felt so right.

We opened a bank account together in October 2017. We started saving money like crazy (read more about how we did it here) . But, shortly after, we realized we needed more than money if we were going to -at least try- to turn our 2 years of traveling into our full time jobs.

We weren’t sure how to make this post useful for anyone out there getting ready to travel the world full time and try to make a living while at it. That’s why we decided it was better to divide everything we did into 4 categories: Skills, mental, finances and health.

Estimated reading time: 21 minutes

• Ready to learn about what we did before full time traveling? Let’s do this!

Table of contents

Videography and youtube, seo (search engine optimization) & this website, the planning stage, where do we stand with our trip today, telling our friends and family, finances // how are we going to save all this money, health // how are we going to stay healthy while traveling full time, did you learn anything about full time traveling please share it on pinterest, ps: in april 2018 we posted our full time traveling announcement video on our youtube channel:, skills // things that will help you make money online while living a life of full time traveling.

First we asked ourselves, how on earth are we going to make money with full time traveling? Is anyone out there successful at this?

We read a million posts. Some mentioned teaching English or working abroad as bartenders. Others mentioned online marketing, house sitting and a bunch of other things that didn’t feel like the right fit for us. That’s when we decided to look at our own strengths. We made a list of the things we were good at. Then, decided that we were going to try to make money with a YouTube channel , Instagram and this blog.

What exactly did we learn before our trip?

Ok, so we were like yes, this is so cool, we are going to be digital nomads. Cool. What does that even mean? Well, we had to learn some things from the very beginning. Having a strong foundation was our #1 goal.

We started learning about videography. Making videos and editing them. Practicing with a camera, asking all of my videographer friends for tips and we watched A LOT of YouTube videos. We also got a membership with Skillshare and did many courses about videography and photography. Learned about story telling and how to edit videos in Final Cut Pro X. Some of my favorite YouTube channels for video tutorials are Mark Harrison , Daniel Schiffer and Thomas Alex Norman . I also had to learn about YouTube SEO and strategies, which I learned form this YouTube channel.

Speaking of SEO…. Somehow despite having had a blog for almost 5 years I completely ignored this basic skill (I’m embarrassed to admit it). This time I was not going to make the same mistakes, so we dove in. And deep. We learned so much through the Goats on the Road website. We even did one of their paid courses! I also watched every video on Cathrin Manning’s YouTube channel (and her blog ) and pretty much read every blog post on Keysearch’s blog . This is just to name a few. SEO was by far the skill we invested more time and money into.

This website was another thing that took a few months to put together. We started (and almost finished) a website with Squarespace at first. Then we learned -a few months later- that if you wanted to be serious about SEO, WordPress was the way to go. So, we had to make the decision about making the switch and start all over again. It was frustrating but we know it will be worth it.

All the structural work was done by us at the beginning. Then, we hired someone to add some final touches we couldn’t figure out on our own. We did it this way to save money and because building a website on our own would force us to learn about the basics. This is very valuable when you need to hire someone later on. It’s important that you know more or less what you are talking about, so you don’t get screwed like I did with my blog ‘ Ways of Style ‘ many many times.

We dove deep into the business of online marketing. Understanding algorithms became second nature and we familiarize ourselves with all the ways we could possibly make money online while traveling full time. I did a couple of courses on Instagram with the Professional Traveler that I cannot recommend enough! Even if you are a ‘established’ blogger or influencer. I had my Instagram as my main source of income and I didn’t know a lot of the things she teaches in her course. She’s brilliant!

We are not even close to being experts on any of these subjects. But we’ve been learning what we need in order to get started and we hope to get better over time. It was important for us to have a solid foundation on how exactly we were going to capitalize our 2-year world adventure and most importantly, make it a lifestyle. Sure it sounded fun to everyone, but we meant business. And we were serious about it.

What took most of our time while getting ready for this trip was planning it. If you don’t have an unlimited budget, you have to be smart about which destinations and activities to include. Plus, all the logistics involved in putting together such a long trip. We mostly did all the planning because we needed an estimate of how much this adventure would cost us, however, we don’t plan to stick to every little detail. We will try to stick to our budget instead.

Basically, all of our free time since October 2017 was invested towards something related to this trip. We had a lot of time to get ready, but some things we’ll have to figure out while on the road, which should be (mostly) fun.

We were set to leave on January 2021, but because of COVID-19, green card and passport issues, we are still waiting on things to align so we can start living our dream of traveling the world full time. One thing we know, we are ready to leave. We already sold all of our stuff and are living a nomad life because we are both able to work from wherever there’s a good internet connection.

COVID-19 of course, is going to have an impact on the way we travel. We need to get the vaccine as soon as possible and instead of hopping from country to country, we are planning on staying at least 2-3 months in each place.

July 2021 update: we both got vaccinated, G already quit his job and we are getting ready to leave in September. Stay tuned for more!

Receive weekly updates

We send a weekly email to our friends & fam with any updates about life on the road.

Basically, we let them know we are alive and share anything interesting that happened that week.

We promise it’ll be fun 😉

We respect your privacy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

The mental part // How on earth are we going to tell people about our life plans?

I don’t know how old you are, but as a socially acceptable responsible adult, you cannot say to other adults you are going to spend your savings traveling (not at 33 & 35). The thing is we NEVER intended to spend our life savings traveling, but to most people this whole making-money-online thing sounds like a scam. And I get it. I didn’t know much about it until I saw other people being transparent on how they were doing it.

The mental part was intense. It still is.

Getting mentally prepared to have no income, no home, basically no material things, living out of a suitcase, jumping from plane to plane every month, all while trying to build a meaningful and successful business together, has been slow to sink in.

According to most social standards, we are not in an age where we ‘should’ be traveling. Instead we ‘should’ be buying a house and thinking about having a family, or saving for retirement. Don’t think for a second it hasn’t been hard for us to deal with all of this. All of our friends are super stable and seem to have it all figured out, while we are just here thinking of investing all of our money on this crazy trip. It was not an easy decision to make, but we hope everything will be alright in the end.

Telling our friends and family about our new travel lifestyle wasn’t easy at all either. I think we can safely say that while everyone we love, does support us and think this trip is a cool idea, they also deep down think we are crazy and that we might be risking too much.

At times, it may seem like we don’t value the advice of all the smart people we have around us. The thing is though, we happen to believe in what we are doing so much and our vision for our life is so clear , that we still decided to move forward and at least try to build something together that is ours. We owe it to ourselves to at least give it a try.

We are getting older and of course we are terrified, but we’re also brave. It’s inevitable to think about the million things that can go wrong and panic. That’s why instead, we recently started to think about all the things that can go right.

What if. ..

We are actually able to execute our vision?

W e are able to live exactly the life we dream of living?

We can actually make the world a better place?

The answers to those questions act as our compass and motivation to move forward.

Naive? Maybe. Not trying? Never.

We wrote about this subject with a lot more details here. We share everything we did in this blog post.

Saving money was not easy. In fact, it was the reason why we had to wait over 3 years to leave and then some more because of COVID-19 and my green card.

We didn’t really have any money saved when we opened our savings account together. It was frustrating and felt impossible at times, but if we learned anything over these past years is that patience and consistency always pay off. For whatever it is that you are trying to save money for, remember that it all starts with $1.

We watched a lot of YouTube videos and read a million blogs to see how much money exactly we were going to need. Initially, before doing any research I guessed we would need like $100k per year LOL, but turns out you’ll be just fine with $35-40k/year. That’s the minimum for us, based on our traveling styles. You can do it for a lot less though. Trust us, we’ve learned about people who have traveled with just $10k and somehow survive one year. Again, it all depends on how you travel, where you go and what you’re willing to sacrifice.

Be sure to read this blog post to learn how exactly we saved money for our trip around the world.

Our health has always been very important to us, but it became even more important when we decided to leave.

Our health is not something we think about lightly or as a short-term thing motivated only by physical results (that’s only like 30% LOL). We started getting physically ready by going to the gym regularly and eating very healthy at home, which also helped us save some money. We love hiking, being in nature and being active. That’s why it was our top priority to be in good shape to do all the things we want to do and not have physical restrictions.

Do you guys usually take advice from older people? Well, I read somewhere that you should take advantage of your youth. That’s when you are strong and healthy to do all the crazy hikes, diving, trips, overnight buses, etc. Because when you are older, your travel style will definitely change. I’m honestly fine with that, but I do want to make sure to do all the crazy things while I still can.

Being healthy became part of our lifestyle. We do not intent to forget about that while we are on the road. We plan to work out and eat healthy most of the time while we travel too. It will be very hard because we both love food and cocktails, but hopefully we’ll find a good balance over time. It’ll be important for us to remember that we are not on vacation. We are permanently traveling and we want to grow old together and stay healthy.

Final thoughts // Are you thinking about traveling the world full time?

We hope this post gives you an idea of all the work it took to get ready for this. We didn’t think about it lightly. Just like a lot of people, we are risking everything in order to make our dream happen. All we can hope, is for it to be worth it.

* Learn how you can support the work we do *

By sharing all this info, we don’t mean to discourage you if you are thinking of doing the same. On the contrary, we are testimony that if you work hard towards your goals and stay focused, your dreams can become a reality.

“It is precisely the possibility of realizing a dream that makes life interesting.” – Paulo Coelho

There’s nothing special about us. If we can do it, so can you. It will take determination and discipline, but if you want it badly, you’ll do whatever it takes.

We have no idea what will happen after 2 years. We might come back home and start from zero, get a 9 to 5 job and start working like crazy to recover from spending all of our savings traveling. Or we might be able to build a business out of Ways of the World and continue to travel for years to come, who knows? One thing we know for sure, we are being bold for facing our fears and for trying something new we believe in our hearts is right. That’s something we’ll never regret.

Hope you guys follow our adventures on YouTube , Instagram or here. Either way, we hope to answer any questions you may have, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Thanks for stopping by,

Aimara & Gordon

Related posts you may also like:

• How to save money to travel – Our story, how we did it & useful tips
• How COVID-19 impacted our plans to travel full time
• Learn how you can support the work we do here at WOTW
• More about what Ways of the World is all about

2 thoughts on “How To Prepare For A Life Of Full-Time Traveling”

Awesome tips. I knew one must save money in order to full-time travel but I didn’t think about preparing physically for it. You guys are right. Being in good physical condition is important to keep traveling. Kudos on taking the leap.

One of my dream jobs is to shoot walking videos in different cities. They seems very popular in YouTube. Just put record on and walk, then publish. No editing needed. Easy as ABC, Great post, thank you for sharing 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Your guide to full-time RV living

Thinking about living full-time in an RV? Here’s everything you need to know before embarking on this journey

By Jesse & Rachael Lyons & Roadtrippers

We‘ve been full-time RV living, working, and traveling since 2018. Through this lifestyle, we’ve visited 23 states and 25 national parks. Touring the U.S. by RV has opened our eyes to new perspectives, uncovered new interests, and altered our lives. Even this far into full-time RV living, we still enjoy living everywhere more than living anywhere.

Living on the road isn’t all adventure and fun though. We spend most of our time working in our RV as full-time remote marketers. We’ve also had our share of setbacks and breakdowns. RV life requires grit, flexibility, and strong problem-solving skills. Ultimately, overcoming the obstacles is worth it for the freedom and joy of RV travel.

Considerations for full-time RV living

Moving into an RV isn’t as simple as hopping behind the wheel and hitting the road. Some aspects of everyday life are different when your home has wheels. You’ll need a game plan for these considerations:

Related 10 mistakes beginner RVers should avoid

The ability to scale your cost of living is a massive benefit of RV life. You can live in an RV luxuriously or on a budget. The major expenses of full-time RV life are campsite fees, fuel, RV and vehicle payments, and activities as you travel. Don’t forget to account for maintenance, repairs, groceries, mobile phones, WiFi , insurance, and other daily costs like food and supplies. You can make decisions to control most of these costs by choosing the kind of RV lifestyle you want, planning, and  sticking to your budget .

Work and income

Unless you’re retired or saved to travel for some time, you’ll need an income to live full-time in an RV. Some RVers work online, while others find short-term jobs and work in one location before moving on to the next.

Sell or store

Downsizing and minimalism are part of the RV lifestyle. You can sell your home and belongings to fund the start-up costs or pay to store your belongings until you’re ready to return to a sticks-and-bricks home.

Domicile state

Even if you travel full-time, you still need a legal address. This determines where you pay taxes, vote, register vehicles, and get your mail. You can claim domicile at a property you own or ask a family member if you can legally “move in” to their residence. Alternatively, you can establish a domicile in a state through a service for RVers. Due to low income taxes and laws, the most popular domicile states for full-time RVers are Florida, South Dakota, and Texas.

If your address is with a family member, you can ask them to manage your mail. Alternatively, you can use a service to receive and forward your mail. Budget for about $100 per year for these services. 

Purchase good insurance policies for your vehicle and RV, and ensure your policy covers full-time RV travel. Joining a roadside assistance program specifically for RVs comes in handy too. Ensure continuation of health insurance through your employer or in your domicile state. If you’re traveling with a pet, make sure your insurance is established in your domicile state and carry updated vaccine records. 

If you’re roadschooling your children, make sure you’re familiar with and comply with the homeschool laws in your domicile state.

Full-time RVers rarely depend on campgrounds for WiFi access. If you require an internet connection for work or school, research cellular data hotspots or satellite internet options. Be aware that no mobile internet solution works everywhere, so you’ll likely need to plan your campsites accordingly or purchase multiple connection options.

Related What RVers and vanlifers need to know about Starlink

Maintenance

If you live full-time in your RV, it’s not a question of if something breaks, but when. There are excellent RV service centers and mobile mechanics, but the ability to diagnose and fix some issues on your own will make full-time RV living easier. So, bring a toolbox and travel with small replacement parts.

What to look for in a rig for full-timing

There’s no one right RV for full-time RVers. The right RV for you depends on your family size, travel style, budget, and work. Here are some factors for choosing the best RV to call home.

How much space do you need to accommodate your family? The more family members, the more beds and square footage you’ll require. Don’t forget, while bigger RVs are more comfortable, they’re more cumbersome for travel and finding campsites.

Choose an RV layout that fits your family’s daily life. Do you need an office with a closed door to focus? Are there enough workspaces for everyone’s work and school? Is there enough storage for everyone’s belongings? Are your kitchen and fridge big enough for your cooking requirements?

Related How to plan a safe and fun RV route with a big rig

The size of your fresh, gray, and black tanks can dictate your RV lifestyle. If you prefer boondocking and public campgrounds, you may want to purchase an RV with larger tanks, especially if you have a family. Tank size is not as crucial if you mainly stay in full-hookup RV parks.

Other features to consider

RVs don’t have as many appliances and comforts as a house. What other features do you need for daily life? Is an in-RV washer and dryer vital to you, or are you fine using campground and public laundromats? Do you want to invest in solar and battery upgrades for a more off-grid lifestyle? Do you require a full bathroom, or will a wet bath or campground showers suffice?

Booking campgrounds while full-time traveling

Parking your home around the country is fun but requires planning to book campgrounds. There is a vast campground style and pricing range, from nature and solitude to urban RV parks.

Types of campgrounds

There are three main types of campgrounds: private RV parks, public campgrounds, and public lands. Private RV parks usually offer more amenities and the option for extended stays but can be more expensive. Public campgrounds like national and state parks have fewer conveniences and require RVers to move frequently, but cost less and offer more rustic settings. Parking on public land is free but has shorter stay limits and no resources. Some full-time RVers stick to one type of campground, while others dabble in all three as they travel.

Stay length

How often do you want to move? Some full-time RVers enjoy going somewhere new every few days. Others stay at a campground for 1 to 2 weeks, while some settle into an RV park for one or several months. The longer you want to stay in one place, the further ahead you’ll need to book your campsite.

Related The ultimate guide to part-time RV travel

Plan and be flexible

Constantly booking campgrounds is part of full-time RV living. Consider the weather seasons, the sights you want to visit, the high tourist seasons for the destination, and local costs. Peak months in popular campgrounds, such as Florida in the winter or Colorado in the summer, will reach capacity months or even a year in advance. 

If you have your heart set on a specific campground, research when its reservation window opens and book immediately. However, be flexible enough to visit destinations in shoulder seasons or stay in less frequented campsites.

Traveling full-time in your RV

Full-time RVing can live up to the dream, but it’s not a full-time vacation. Long-term RV travel requires practice and management to sustain for months or years to come.

Visiting new places

Traveling to new destinations is the best part of RV travel. Make a bucket list of things you want to see and experience. Do you prefer outdoor activities and national parks, exploring the bustle of new cities, or a little of both? Keep an open mind to new interests and experiences too. Getting out of your comfort zone and getting to know people and places different from you can be the most enriching part of travel. Remember—you’ll never be able to see everything in one or even dozens of RV trips. Try to slow down and soak in the places you visit.

Travel days

Full-time RVers spend a lot of time on the road. Driving with an RV is slower and more unpredictable, so estimate an extra 25 percent for your drive time, and don’t push yourself (or your rig). Check maps carefully to ensure the roads and bridges accommodate your RV length and height. For drives longer than a day, reserve a campground or plan overnight RV parking in a retail location or rest stop that allows 1-night stays.

Maintaining relationships

If you’re traveling full-time, you might miss the sense of community that comes with staying in one place. Make travel plans that include visiting friends or family or invite them to meet up with you on the road. RVers are open to meeting new people, so don’t hesitate to use social media platforms and campground events as opportunities to make new friends. Take time to nurture your own traveling family too. The constant togetherness and small spaces shift dynamics, so practice open communication and plan focused time together.

Manage resources

RV life requires constant resource management. From conserving utilities to finding new grocery stores and juggling travel schedules, daily life isn’t as convenient as living in a house. There’s a learning curve for everyone, so embrace it as much as you can.

Common questions about full-time RVing

The costs of full-time RV living vary greatly depending on your RV lifestyle, but you can quickly scale your budget depending on the type of campgrounds you stay in and how often you travel to the next destination. 

You can live permanently in an RV as long as you’ve established and maintained a domicile address with the associated taxes and legal requirements.

Prepare for full-time RV living by researching and planning your RV setup, income, school, domicile address, travel plans, and campground reservations. Read and listen to others’ experiences on blogs, videos, and social media to learn what to expect from daily RV life.

The specifics of how taxes work when you live in an RV vary depending on your income sources, but generally, you pay taxes according to the state you establish a domicile in.

Most RVers move to warmer climates during the winter months, often referred to as “snowbirding.” However, if you live in your RV in cold weather, heat the interior with an electric or propane heater. Use insulation and heated lines to prevent your hookups and plumbing from freezing. Many considerations and decisions need to be made before you embark on full-time RV life. The more research and planning you do, the more prepared you will be. However, you’ll always learn new things as you go, so enjoy the adventure.

Meet the Authors

Jesse & Rachael Lyons

Jesse and Rachael are a married couple from Boston, Massachusetts. In 2018 they ditched their city apartment, became digital nomads, and hit the road to go on an adventure. Now, they travel full-time in their renovated Keystone Cougar fifth wheel, tasting local food and beer everywhere they go.

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

• Related Articles
• Latest Articles

Best RV trip planners: must-have features

How to DIY an affordable big-screen RV GPS

RV insurance vs roadside assistance: key differences

Long weekend trip itineraries around the U.S.

The best foodie road trips for Southern eats

Common road trip scams (and how to avoid them)

Get the most inspiring stories from the road sent directly to your inbox..

• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

If you used to sign in with Roadpass, you should now use the same username and password to log in directly with Roadtrippers above.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

How do you want to plan your trip?

With just a few questions, our newest Premium feature, Autopilot, will plan your next adventure.

HOW TO TRAVEL FULL TIME – a down-to-earth guide

Travelling full time seems to be the dream for every Millennial around the world. We’re all being told that working 9 to 5 is something we have to escape from, that we should follow our dreams and get inspired by each travel quote we see. But there is something about this whole idea that I don’t agree on.

Full-time travel is yet another full-time job, unless you’re rich . While travelling full time means that you’re location independent, it doesn’t mean that you won’t have to work. If you want to travel around the world for more than a few months, you’ll have to do more than just sit on a beautiful beach in Thailand with a Mojito in your hand.

Full-time travel is about exploring the world while working your a** off to afford it. There, I’ve said it.

But how can you afford to travel full time in the first place?

Before getting to the part where you’ll have to work day and night to afford your new lifestyle as a digital nomad, I want to share with you how you can get out of your comfort zone, quit your job, leave your friends and family behind and travel the world.

It doesn’t sound that fancy anymore, does it?

Even though the goal is to escape the 9 to 5 job, the best way to save up money to travel full time is to have a full-time job. Having one will allow you to have a stable income and to save up money.

Also, you never know when the skills learned at your desk job will help you build your own successful business. I’ve worked in advertising before deciding to travel full time and it has made all the difference for me. I use the skills learned at my previous job to grow my blog. Isn’t that awesome?

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

If you are wondering how to save up money, I’m going to share with you a few tips. Think about all the things you buy but don’t actually need. That money could go into travel instead. It’s just a matter of priorities.

If you make the decision today that your top priority is to save up money to travel the world for X months, you’re gonna make it. Give up useless clothes, cook instead of eating at restaurants, and cut other expenses.

A good way to decide whether or not to buy something is to ask yourself the following questions: Will this thing be useful in my journey? Can I bring it with me in my carry on?

If the answer is no, let it go. You’ll enjoy an extra day in Vietnam more than a new t-shirt.

Another good way to keep yourself motivated to spend less is to think about how many days you can travel with the money you spend on new clothes or eating out at restaurants. As a base, if you’re planning on backpacking , you’ll need about $25 per day.

So, let’s do the math:

1 Zara t-shirt = one day of backpacking

1 meal in the city = one day and a half of backpacking

1 movie = one day of backpacking

1 pair of shoes = 5 days of backpacking

How many days of travel do you think you can save up for in one week?

From full-time job to full-time travel

If you thought that saving up the money was the hardest part, think again.

The transition from your comfort zone where you are surrounded by family and friends to moving at the other end of the world is the hardest part. There are many things you’ll have to give up when travelling full time. I’ll list below just a few of them.

1. Friends & family

This is probably the hardest part. Since we were little, we’ve spent our whole lives surrounded by family. We all have childhood friends, friends who’ve been there unconditionally. Having somebody to rely on is incredible and probably one of the best feelings in the world but are you ready to give it up?

Traveling full time means that you’ll be away from your loved ones, somewhere around the globe where if something happens, nobody can come and rescue you. You are on your own . You’ll have to learn to live on your own and face everything.

But let’s look on the bright side – you’ll grow a lot! Being on the road will be the most valuable lesson in your entire life, trust me!

2. You’ll have to give up on things

Think about all your clothes, shoes and bags. Now forget about them.

Being location independent is all about minimalism and most of the times less is more. Once you give up on 80% of your stuff, you’ll feel free.

Picking daily outfits can be a burden when you have a wardrobe full of clothes. When travelling full time, things are much easier. Believe it or not, having just a backpack or a suitcase makes things much easier.

A good lesson I’ve learned while being on the road is to not get attached to things and I recommend you do the same.

3. Exit your comfort zone

New food, new people and new situations to deal with will wait for you at every corner. Full-time travel is about growing as a person while facing new challenges.

Be prepared to change your diet and eat weird food. You won’t find many tasty hamburgers in the heart of China or between the temples of Bagan . Every country has its traditional food and love it or not, you’ll have to adapt to it.

Be prepared to face the unknown.

It’s time to pack your stuff

If after everything I’ve told you, you still want to roam the world, you’ll have to read about the ultimate full time-travel packing list.

I’ve been on the road for the past year. After all this time, the content of my backpack has suffered major changes. I’ve learned to declutter and pack efficiently and I want to share how I did it with you. Below are a few must have items that will help you save tons of space while traveling full time.

• packing cubes – these little wonders will help you keep your things organised. They are every traveler’s dream accessories.
• elastic grid organizer – this one is a life saver. Keep your charges, memory cards, and other small accessories in one place.
• travel plastic bags – they’re light, easy to use and perfect for keeping things organized – you must have them.
• travel bottles – take your shampoo, shower gel, and other liquids with you in your carry on luggage with these awesome travel bottles.

Let the journey begin!

Now it’s time to talk about the journey itself.

By now probably all your friends think you’re crazy and they’re not to blame. Society pushes us to have a stable job, buy a house and have kids. In their eyes, you’re the misfit. They don’t understand your desire to explore the world, to challenge yourself. You’ll become “the crazy friend” but they will still love you.

Once you’ll get on that plane, you’ll feel the whole world crushing beneath your feet but once you reach your destination a whole new world will open up to you.

If you took the decision to travel full time, you probably have some savings. They might be enough for a few months of travel or even one year. The question is what will happen afterward, after the money is gone?

Making money while traveling full time

There are basically 2 options: you’ll want to go back home, at a stable job and lifestyle or you’ll just want to travel more.

Trust me, there is nothing wrong with wanting to go back home. Changing accommodation every three days and sleeping on buses is not for everyone. There is nothing wrong with wanting to have a stable lifestyle.

On the other hand, if you plan to travel more, you have to take action and put in the work.

1. Content creation

Most travelers choose to become content creators (vloggers, bloggers, Instagrammers). Being a successful content creator can bring you enough money to continue your full-time travel journey but there is a catch.

There is no such thing as overnight success. 

Even though you’ll come across courses about “how to become an influencer in 5 easy steps”, don’t even bother to read them. If you really know that this is what you want – to become a digital nomad – you’ll have to start working on it from the moment you leave home.

Open a YouTube account, start a blog or an Instagram page (you can read more about blogging vs social media here ). Start creating content, take photos or videos and when you have spare time, write blogs or edit videos.

Growing a blog or any other channel takes A LOT of time. It takes months, if not years of dedication to make a good, stable income from content creation.

2. Freelancing

Another option to make money is to become a freelancer.

There are many freelancing jobs such as being a freelance writer, web designer or programmer and the best part is that you can work remotely. This means that you can continue to travel while making an income.

Some websites where you can offer your services are Upwork , Freelancer or Guru .

Whether you choose to become a content creator or a freelancer, the thing is that you’re going to have to work. Trust me, working and traveling at the same time is not as easy as it seems.

If you’re wondering how I do it, this is how my schedule usually looks like. I travel non-stop for a few months and I create content along the way. I take photos, research about the best places to visit and try to discover new places which are off the beaten path. After all this travel, I take a break for another few months in Canggu, Bali.

And now comes the hard part. I work all day, every day at catching up with my content. I write tirelessly on my blog and I love it. For me, my blog is my little baby and I love seeing it grow.

I think it all comes down to passion. You might be passionate about traveling, but let me ask you one question – Would you work your a** off to afford it?

Final thoughts

I know that there are many posts and articles on the internet where everybody only speaks about the pretty face of full-time travel and as a digital nomad myself, I felt the need to share with you the truth, step by step.

My intention is not to discourage you to follow your dream. Instead, I want you to have a down-to-earth image about what travelling full time really means. Yes, it’s challenging and hard but at the same time, it’s the most rewarding and fulfilling experience in the world!

It takes a lot of courage, tons of determination and a will of steel to transform full time travelling into a lifestyle.

May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

Hhhh you’re genius! I liked how smoothly your writings went. Your a Very creative writer! I appreciate how you did to show us the real face of the full time travelling. Informative.

Thanks so much! Glad you liked it!

Glad I enjoyed the post! Thanks for sharing such an useful Information

Really great post! I’ve been travelling for almost four years & I’ve applied a lot of these points to my life in the past. Really like your blog & can’t wait to read more!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

11 Ways to Travel More With a Full Time Job (+ 2024 Vacation Planner!)

Wondering how you can travel more with a full time job? It is possible! I’ve combined work and travel for years – here are my top tips.

Working a full-time job doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice travel . You can, in fact, have both in your life – without quitting your job.

Trust me, I get it when you open Instagram and you see your feed filled with people gushing about their lives as full-time travellers , jealousy bubbling as they’re boarding yet another flight to yet another stunning destination. It’s hard to stomach when you’re sitting in your office or your cubicle or serving customers. But that life isn’t for everyone.

I LOVE travel. Not a day goes by where I’m not thinking about my ever-growing bucket list or scoping out cheap flights .

But I also actually like working. I have an interesting job that keeps me busy. I also like having a home. And things. And a routine. Hell, shockingly I even like knowing that money is coming into my bank account each month.

Which is why I’ve found a balance working full time and indulging in my wanderlust . I plan and I make travel a big part of my life. And here I’m going to share some ideas for how you can travel more , too, even if you work full time.

Don’t forget to grab your own downloadable 2024 vacation planner here – it’ll help you map out your travel plans for the year.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

1. Prioritise travel

Not everyone wants to travel. Some people are perfectly happy at home – and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you’re not one of those people (and I’m assuming you’re not, given you’re reading a travel blog!) and you have a burning desire to see the world, then make travel a priority .

Start by figuring out what’s motivating you to travel. Is it a desire to experience other cultures and learn how people live elsewhere in the world? To snap Instagram-worthy photos around the world? To provide a brief escape from real life? Think about the kinds of vacations and destinations that will enable you to have these experiences.

Use this to start creating beautiful Pinterest boards that reflect that vision , or putting pictures of your dream destinations on your fridge or computer screen so that your travel goal is always visible.

But this isn’t always enough. Perhaps there’s something holding you back from travelling more than you’d like. It could be money, or the (lack of) vacation time you have, or a partner who’s not as keen on travelling. Maybe you have family obligations that just don’t allow you to duck off whenever you feel like it.

Whatever it is, identify those obstacles and then come up with ideas for how to overcome them ( everything is figureoutable , after all!). For instance:

• If money’s an issue, make a budget . What costs can you reasonably cut? Think really, really hard about whether you really, really need that cute summer dress or that extra margarita when you’re out with friends (and that’s hard to say no to, I know!). That dress or margarita could be the same price as a day tour in Rome or a meal in Thailand. Automate your savings so that a certain amount of your salary is directly routed to a separate account (preferably a high-interest account) that you can’t touch.
• If vacation time’s an issue, then read on for some ideas on hacking your vacation time . But please, please, whatever you do, make sure you actually take your vacation! It astounds me the number of people who don’t take the vacation time they’re owed .
• If you don’t have someone to travel with, consider booking a tour. Or read up about solo travelling – often you won’t ever even be “alone” !
• If you’ve got responsibilities at home that don’t allow you to travel constantly, then consider short trips and weekends away – you’ll still get to see some amazing cities and regions and have some time off to unwind.

2. Plan out your calendar

There may be a few people now yelling at their computer screens, “but I just don’t get enough time off from my job! I can’t possibly travel as much I want!”

You’d actually be surprised at how many travel days you can fit into a year with some clever planning – even if you don’t have weeks and weeks of vacation days at your disposal.

At the start of each year, I usually plot out some ideas and see how many days of vacation time and national holidays (more coming on that) I have to work with. I plan it out, but I don’t book everything at the start of the year – I like to stay flexible.

You can download the calendar I use by entering your details below. It’ll help you travel more with a full time job by helping you plan out your year around vacations.

3. Take advantage of national holidays

If you’re not travelling around public holidays , you’re wasting precious days!

This is the simplest way to extend the number of days you have for travel, without eating into your vacation days. For example, if a public holiday is on a Tuesday, take the Monday off. Now you’ve ended up with a four-day trip but you’ve only used one vacation day. Genius!

If you plan well, sometimes you can even take a nine-day trip by using only four of your vacation days.

Of course, travelling around public holidays can often be more expensive. But if you book your travel well in advance, take red-eyes or non-direct flights or can use airline points for flights you can avoid paying through the nose.

4. Explore your own backyard

Have you done everything there is to do where you live? I bet not! Take some time to explore your own city or town and play tourist for a day or a weekend.

Visit a museum you’ve never gone to or join a food tour to explore some new restaurants you’ve never tried. When I lived in Dallas, I took a few Dallas tours to learn more about the city I was living in. I discovered stunning buildings, new restaurants and heard some fascinating stories that gave me a fresh view of the city.

Consider a staycation in your own city. Hotels often have packages offering a night’s accommodation with a meal or a spa treatment included. Check in and go out to a new restaurant or a concert. Treat yo’self!

Alternatively, take a day trip to a nearby town or attraction or national park. Unless you live in the Australian Outback or somewhere else remote, there’s bound to be something within a few hours drive from your home to explore.

5. Get away for the weekend and take short trips

Trips away don’t always have to be long adventures. You can still see some amazing places if you plan just a day trip or a weekend somewhere – it’s not always necessary to take a week-long trip.

Fly or drive out on Friday night and return early Monday morning and head straight into the office. Sure, you’ll be taking red-eye flights but it will be worth it. We did this when we went to Denver . Returning to Dallas on Monday morning meant a 3am wake-up call, but we’d had such a great weekend that we were happy to sacrifice a few hours’ sleep.

Even better is when you extend it and turn it into a long weekend by flying out Thursday night or Friday morning and returning Monday morning. We did this on our trip to San Francisco and actually found it so much better because we did all the touristy things on Friday when there were fewer people around. Bonus: long weekends mean short working weeks!

6. Plan your trips well

Remember to choose your destinations wisely . Depending how much vacation time you have, to travel more you may need to choose destinations that are closer to your home city or that have direct flights to avoid having travel time eat into your vacation days.

Make a list of what you must do on your trip so you can hit the ground running when you arrive. This is especially important if you only have a few days in a place. You don’t want to be wasting time going from one side of the city to another because you didn’t plan out an efficient itinerary .

7. Travel hack

All this travel can add up, so make sure you’re travel hacking as much as possible.

Sign up for credit cards that net you points that you can redeem for flights or hotels, and keep an eye out for cheap deals to new cities and countries. I got return flights from Dallas to Madrid for only $404 each through Going (previous Scotts Cheap Flights). Mighty Travels is another great resource, and it’s worth paying the small fee for a premium account.

If you’re new to travel hacking, there’s plenty of information online to start learning more. This is a great website for people based in Australia.

8. Tack on personal travel to a business trip

If your job involves business travel , why not tack on some extra vacation time after that conference or round of meetings?

I did this when I had a work trip to Singapore some years ago. I flew in the weekend before the meeting started and spent a few days trekking through the jungle in Bukit Lawang in Indonesia. Bonus: your trip’s already partially paid for!

If your other half travels for work, then tag along with them and spend some time exploring while they’re working.

9. Negotiate at work

There’s only one way to truly get more vacation days: ask your boss . Can you negotiate more days off, or for a flexible work schedule that allows you to take some half days off here and there? Can you work remotely? Does your company offer a leave of absence or other flexible vacation policies?

There’s no harm in asking.

10. Become an expat!

I am, of course, a huge believer in expat life . It enables you to explore a country (and even a continent), learn about the country’s culture and customs and sometimes even pick up a new language.

I’ve lived in Papua New Guinea , Argentina and the United States , and there’s something about living abroad that makes you want to explore as much as you can.

Teach English. Become an au pair. Ask your company to transfer you to another office. There are so many ways to become an expat (check out my guide to the best cities for expats ).

11. Above all, work hard

My number one tip is to work hard and build a reputation as a reliable, trustworthy worker . When you’re off travelling (yet again) your boss and colleagues aren’t going to be complaining. They’ll know that you’ve put in the hard yards and deserve the time off.

When you do leave the office for that hard-earned break, make it easy for your team . Close out any projects that you’ve been working on and leave lists with step-by-step instructions for any outstanding items. The last thing you want is to return to an office full of people who are bitter because they had to step in and fix your problems while you were off gallivanting around the world.

Final thoughts: How to travel more with a full-time job

So, how are you going to travel more ? I guarantee that you if take a good look at your calendar and are smart about how you plan your travel, you can find ways to fit more travel in around your full-time job. Now get to planning and saving – and on your lunch break, go book your next adventure!

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

What are your tips to travel more when you work full time? How do you manage both? Leave your ideas in the comments below.

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these travel blogs:

• How to Plan a Trip: 15 Steps to the Perfect Travel Itinerary
• Epic USA Bucket List: 50 Things to Do in the United States
• The Ultimate Australia Bucket List: 75+ Adventures and Activities to Experience Down Under

PIN IT FOR LATER: TRAVEL MORE WITH A FULL TIME JOB

Save this guide to how to travel more with a full time job to Pinterest for later.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

18 thoughts on “11 Ways to Travel More With a Full Time Job (+ 2024 Vacation Planner!)”

Great tips! I have just started maximizing on using public holidays. I just need to start planning them out farther in advance like you said! Save myself some money that way too.

Yep, it’s the best way to maximise your travel! And you will save $$ by planning in advance – but make sure to stay flexible too! 🙂

This is gold! Thanks so much for putting it together. I work full time (sometimes it feels like I work full time, and then some) so fitting in vacation time where I can travel sometimes feels impossible. Weekends and long weekends are my travel life now 😉

Oh yeah… I hear ya! We have never travelled so many weekends before I realised this is the way to maximise our travel time! But living in the US, I also feel like we have access to so many more cheap flights that can make some other destinations also so much more affordable!

I dont work FT – just PT, and my husband is very flexible HOWEVER, now that my kids are older, this article could be about trying not to miss too much school! We def struggle with that!

Totally! How old are your kids?

A travel calendar sounds awesome! I usually plan my trips around the public holidays to get the most out of it but that’s not always possible. I’m thinking of taking more short breaks next year to accommodate this.

Yeah, I love the calendar – I know how much I can fit into a year with the vacation time I have. Where are you planning to go in 2019? Thanks for stopping by Razena!

Awesome tips, Rebecca! I literally used all of these strategies to travel more when I worked full time, including the bit about becoming an expat. Living in London does make it easier to travel, especially for weekend breaks 🙂

Yes! Don’t you find that you want to travel more when you’re an expat? We never know how long we’ll be somewhere so we take advantage of our time. Living in London would be amazing – there are so many places close by that you can easily visit in a weekend!

Those are great tips! I’m always looking at holidays at least 6 months in advance so I can plan appropriately. And, I love your advice on planning what you do on the short weekend getaways. With limited time, you got to make every second count. I’m always surprised by the amount of people who just wing it. Great post!

Thanks April! Planning in advance is definitely the way to go. What have you got planned for 2019??

Super inspirational tips and hacks!! From the balanced, hard working travel queen herself, your experiences are so important to share and encourage folks who aren’t full them bloggers. I remember feeling so discouraged looking at limited vacation days and endless meetings plus a map of the the entire world I wanted to explore. But it IS possible to balance a full time job and travel, and you, madam, are doing it right! ???????????????? I love the idea of exploring your own backyard, and it’s something I’m going to do in Madrid now before my time here is up!

You are the perfect example of someone who always makes the most of every weekend and vacation day – even if it was limited! Especially as an expat. And there is so much to do in Madrid (and Spain in general) – I am always so envious of your trips! 🙂

Thanks for the informative article. I also work full-time but love to travel as much as possible. I really like your idea of making the most of the time available to you by taking short get-aways and weekends trips. And I’m also a fan of researching a trip really thoroughly to make sure every travel moment counts!

Oh yes, I am the queen of spreadsheets and itineraries, especially when we’re going away for a quick weekend! I think people underestimate what you can do in one weekend, if you plan well! 🙂 Thanks Marie!

Love these tips! It can be so hard to travel with a full time job, but I really agree with taking weekeend trips to maximize travel. It doesn’t always have to be a huge trip!

Totally – I always used to think that only way to travel was a week, two weeks somewhere – but you can fit so much into a weekend somewhere! Thanks for stopping by Angelica!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

MORE INFORMATION

ABOUT WORK WITH ME CONTACT PUBLISHED WORK

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES

© 2024 REBECCA AND THE WORLD

Privacy Policy

I ACKNOWLEDGE THE WURUNDJERI AND BOON WURRUNG PEOPLE OF THE KULIN NATION AS THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE LANDS AND WATERWAYS OF THE AREA I LIVE ON. I PAY MY RESPECTS TO ELDERS PAST AND PRESENT AND CELEBRATE THE STORIES, CULTURE AND TRADITIONS OF ALL ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE ACROSS AUSTRALIA.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

How to budget for full time travel – A step by step guide

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

Want to go backpacking in Southeast Asia ? Try out vanlife in Australia? Or travel around Europe? Planning for full time travel can be daunting, most of all because of the cost. Knowing where and how to start preparing your travel budget can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this practical step by step guide for how to budget for full time travel.

Table of Contents

How to budget for full time travel - a step by step guide.

This post will guide you through step by step instructions of how to set your travel budget. You can also download my handy Travel Budget Spreadsheet template and simply populate it with your numbers. An easy, simple way to plan your travel budget for your dream trip!

As well as guiding you through completing your own Travel Budget Spreadsheet, I’ll also cover key things you need to think about when budgeting for full time travel.

So, let’s go…!

How can I afford to travel full time?

Before I jump into how to budget for full time travel, I wanted to answer this as it’s a question I get asked a lot – ‘how can you afford to travel full time?!’ Some people we’ve met have even jokingly asked if we’re rich! (Ha! I wish!)

At the time of writing this post, I’ve been travelling full time with my husband for just over a year. We set off in September 2021, spending 3 months in Europe, driving through the beautiful landscapes of Germany’s Black Forest , visiting the Matterhorn in Switzerland and enjoying life on the French Riviera . After a short stop back at home in the UK to spend Christmas with our families, we flew to Thailand in January 2022 and ended up loving it so much, we stayed there for 3 months. Following that, we visited Cambodia, spent a month in Vietnam , had 5 days in Singapore , then continued onto Malaysia and Bali before arriving in Australia, where we are currently travelling around in a van for 3 months. After Australia we fly to New Zealand, where we’ll be enjoying van life again for another 2 months.

Neither of us work whilst we are travelling (although we could both work remotely online if we chose to), so, you’re probably wondering how we afford to travel full time?

Well, the reality is that we spent quite a few years saving really hard for our travels. We consciously decided that we didn’t want to have to work whilst we were taking this time out to travel, so we knew we needed a plan and that involved a lot of saving! We made a rough itinerary of where we wanted to travel and how long we wanted to spend in each place. After that, we then set ourselves a travel budget and started saving! There really is no magic trick I’m afraid, but if you really want something and you are determined to work hard and focus on the end goal, then you can make it happen.

Check out my super simple, but effective tips for how to save for full time travel.

How to create your travel budget - how much money do you need for full time travel?

It’s easy to get carried away dreaming of lying on the sandy beaches of Phuket , in Thailand or visiting elephants in Sri Lanka , but before that becomes a reality, you need to plan your travel budget.

Without knowing how much things cost and how much money you will actually need to travel, you’ll run out of money very quickly. No-one wants to have to cut their trip short because they don’t have any money left!

How much money you will need to travel full time will be different for everyone as it is dependant on a number of things:

• Destination (the place or places you want to travel to)
• Duration (how long you hope to spend in each place)
• Your style of travel (the standard of accommodation, transport, food and drink you are happy with)
• What activities you plan to do (if you have any bucket list activities you want to tick off such as a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon or snorkel in the Whitsundays , these things will evidently cost more).

The next 9 steps will guide you through how to create your travel budget. This includes not only setting your budget for whilst you are travelling, but also your pre-departure budget, emergency travel funds budget, an ongoing expenses budget and a post travel budget.

That may sound overwhelming, but I promise you it is really quite simple once you get started and hopefully this guide will help you break it down into more manageable chunks.

And to make it even easier for you, I’ve shared my own Travel Budget Spreadsheet as a temple which you can download and use for yourself. It is editable so you can make any changes you might want too.

Creating your Travel Budget in 9 simple steps:

1. decide on your destination(s).

Deciding where you would like to travel to is one of the first steps you should make when starting to budget for full time travel. Your destination(s) will have a huge impact on how much you need to save. For example, travelling in South East Asia will be far cheaper than in Australia, or in Europe. Once you’ve decided on the destination(s) you would like to visit, make a list of them all.

Personally, I would recommend creating this list in an excel or google docs spreadsheet. This will be your Travel Budget Spreadsheet. If you have several places you want to visit, add each destination into its own cell, one underneath each other. Your Travel Budget Spreadsheet doesn’t need to be fancy, keep it simple.

Task: Make a list of the destinations you would like to visit (in order of preference):

Travel Budget Spreadsheet example:

2. Decide how long you would like to travel for

Some people may advise you to just save as much as you can within ‘x months’ and then figure out how long that can sustain you for. I would recommend having a good idea of how long you would like to travel for first, as this will help you to work out how much money you need to save and how long that will take you. I find that having a figure to work towards also means that you are more likely to keep on track with your saving goal.

If you’re planning to travel to several places, make a note of how long you would like to spend in each place as this will help you to work out your travel budget per destination too.

Task: Go back to your Travel Budget Spreadsheet. In the second and third columns, titled ‘Duration’ in both days and weeks, write how long you would ideally like to spend in each place. At the bottom of the Duration column, add up the number of days / weeks / months to get your total.

3. Research the average costs in each destination

How will you know how much to save if you don’t know how much things cost? Do some research into things like accommodation, transport and the price of meals and drinks. Read blogs, watch YouTube videos but also do some research yourself on sites such as booking.com to see how much accommodation is on average, or on sites like Viator to see how much tours and activities might be.

Tip: It is important when looking into the cost of transport, flights , accommodation and van or car hire to input dates at the same time of year you are planning to travel to that destination. For example, the peak season in Thailand is December – February. During these months, the cost of accommodation and flights will be higher than if you visited during the rainy season July – September.

Once you have done your research, make a note of how much you think you might need per day in that destination. Don’t worry about getting this exactly right. Without actually being in the country, it is hard to know the exact costs of things, so this is more of an educated guesstimate, but an estimated cost based on research is far closer to being correct than if you plucked a figure out of the air!

Remember that your daily cost will be different than someone else’s. Your daily cost will depend on things like the standard of accommodation you are happy with, how often you like to party, what activities you want to do and what kind of places you eat at. Make sure you remember that, especially when reading blogs, or instagram posts or watching YouTube vlogs.

Task: On your destinations list, add a fourth column with your average daily spend for each destination. Note that each destination will have slightly different average daily spends, based on how expensive things are in that country or city.

4. Set your travel budget

Now you know where you want to travel to, how long you would like to travel for, and how much things cost in your chosen destination(s), it’s time to set your travel budget. Go back to your Travel Budget Spreadsheet. You should now have four columns with the information you have collected so far. Add a fifth column – this is where you will calculate the amount of money you need for each destination.

Now you have worked out how much money you need in each destination, add everything up and you will have the total amount of money needed to complete your dream trip.

At this stage, assess whether this figure is manageable and realistic for you. Do you need to make any adjustments?

5. Set a pre-departure budget

Planning a budget for full time travel isn’t just about saving for whilst you are on your trip. You also need to factor in any expenses you may need before your trip. These could include things like travel vaccinations, visas, flights, or purchasing travel essentials such as a backpack, packing cubes, reusable water bottles, etc. You might need to buy a supply of medication or contact lenses. Make a note of everything you need to spend money on in order to prepare yourself for full time travel and add this to your Travel Budget Spreadsheet.

6. Create an Emergency travel fund

No-one wants anything bad to happen whilst you are travelling, but unexpected things can occur. You might need to book a flight to get out of a country quickly in the instance of adverse weather, or you might have an accident and need hospital treatment and your insurance company doesn’t pay out upfront. Always make sure that you have an emergency travel fund and DON’T spend it – unless it really is an emergency! (It is also wise to have a couple of credit cards to fall back on in the case of an emergency. This should be in addition to your emergency travel fund, not instead of!) Add the amount you are planning to set aside for emergencies in your Travel Budget Spreadsheet – and keep this money separate to your travel pot!

7. Budget for any ongoing expenses

Ongoing expenses include anything that you will need to continue to pay for, even whilst you are travelling. For example, we have a storage unit full of everything we own, which we pay a monthly direct debit for. I calculated how much money we would need to save in order to continually pay for our storage unit during the time we were away (plus extra months in case we extended our travels!).

Other ongoing expenses may include mortgage payments, insurance policies, an outstanding phone contract which you need to pay off, a Netflix subscription etc. No matter how small, add all ongoing expenses to your Travel Budget Spreadsheet. Make sure you calculate how much money you will need in order to continuously cover these expenses for the duration of your trip (or however long you need to keep making the payments for). The money needed for ongoing expenses should be in a completely separate bank account to your travel budget pot. This ensures that you always have money to cover these direct debits.

Task: Add all ongoing expenses to your Travel Budget Spreadsheet and account for these when saving

8. Plan for a ‘coming home’, post-travels budget

I know, you’ve not even started your travels and I’m talking about coming home! This seems super boring, but the last thing you want after your travels are over is to get home to absolutely nothing. Plan to put a little aside so that you have some money when you come home to help set yourself up again. For example, you might need to put some money aside to buy a new car, or for the first couple of month’s deposit in a rental unit.

Task: Write down things you would need to pay for upon your return and add an estimated cost for this to your Travel Budget Spreadsheet. (I would also make sure that you keep this money in a separate bank account to your travel pot, so that you aren’t tempted to dip into it)!

9. Decide on a date to start travelling

Now you know how much money you need to save for your trip, plan how long that will take you to save. Set up a direct debit into your savings account, or open up a specific ‘travel account’ and transfer money into there each week, fortnight or month.

Having a goal of how much you need to save and a date to work towards will make it easier for you to focus on saving for your travels. Be realistic with your timeline. If you want to set off sooner, make a plan for how this could be possible for you.

My husband and I chose not to work. We made a conscious decision to take some time out, away from our busy careers and simply enjoy travelling. We planned for this from the beginning and we were really strict with ourselves, sticking to our plan to save.

Of course, this may not suit everyone and if you don’t want to wait until you have saved enough, or perhaps you want to be able to travel with no end date, then that’s great! But make sure that you plan for that too. Could you save 50% of what you need initially, then work remotely to earn more as you go? There are lots of ways to earn money online whilst you’re travelling. Or, depending on the country you are in, you could also get a working visa to help top up your travel pot.

You could also consider joining a Workaway program where you work for a few hours a day in return for free accommodation. Or how about being a house sitter or dog sitter, if you don’t mind staying in one place for a few weeks? These are all great ways to get free accommodation which is a great help to your budget.

How to keep your travel budget on track (and not overspend!)

You’ve spent many months saving hard and finally the time has come for you to set off on your travels! (YAY!) Whilst it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of travelling (of course you should be excited, travel is the best!), it is important that you keep a track of your spending. It sounds boring, but trust me, you don’t want to find out that you’ve spent all your hard earned money too quickly and now have to cut your trip short.

So, to make sure that doesn’t happen, here’s my 3 top tips for keeping track of your travel budget whilst travelling:

1. Track your daily travel spend

Don’t worry, I won’t be suggesting that you fill in a spreadsheet everyday (although you can if you want to!). I use the Travel Spend app religiously, in fact I’m a little bit obsessed with it! It is without a doubt my favourite travel app. There’s a paid version where you can have multiple trips displaying at once, and add your own custom categories, but to be honest, I’ve been fine with just using the free version for the past year.

I prefer to have a new entry on the travel spend app by country, as I have different daily budgets for each country. To get started, simply add the name of the country you are starting in, add the total budget you have set yourself for that country, as well as the beginning and end dates you are there. The app will then automatically calculate what your daily spend should be based on your total budget and number of days – this should match the daily budget figure you have on your Travel Budget Spreadsheet.

Each time I buy something, I enter it onto the app, even if it’s just a single bottle of water. The app will total how much you have spent that day, as well as showing you how much of your total budget you have remaining.

Try not to get too caught up on what you have spent each day, as some days you will go over budget and some days you will go under. You need to focus on the ‘daily average spend’, and as long as this matches (or is close to) the figure you have budgeted for, you are on track.

2. Record your total spend per location

Once your time is up in a country or destination, record your total spend in your Travel Budget Spreadsheet. This is a good way to keep track of your actual spend and you can also compare it against the budget you had forecast for that destination to see if you were significantly over or under budget.

Noticing any discrepancies in this way will allow you to make any adjustments you might need to the rest of your budget. For example, if you are under budget, you know that you can afford to have a couple of treats in your next destination. But if you have gone way over budget, you need to look at where you can claw back some money, or decide to earn some extra money as you travel.

If you are travelling to several destinations, and are using the free version of the Travel Spend app, you will need to delete your current country in the app in order to record your spend in a new country. So, just make sure that you have inputted your total spend into your Travel Budget Spreadsheet before deleting that country in the app!

3. Make any adjustments needed to your ongoing expenses budget

If any of the regular payments you are making as ‘ongoing expenses’ change, you will need to adjust this in your spreadsheet and make sure that you have enough in your ‘ongoing expenses’ pot to cover any additional costs or price rises on things like storage unit hire, insurance or subscriptions.

So there you have it, my step by step guide to creating and managing your travel budget, along with top tips for keeping your spending on track!

Creating a travel budget doesn’t need to be complicated, the hardest part is saving! Even then, if you are determined to travel and you’re focused on the end goal, then the saving part won’t feel too much of a chore either. Make sure you check out my 12 simple tips to save for full time travel.

Related Posts

How to save for full time travel – 12 tips to help you save!

50 Essential travel tips for first time backpackers visiting Southeast Asia

This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our  disclosure policy

How Much We Really Spend RVing Full-Time Each Month

• October 28, 2023

Table of Contents

Is Full-Time RVing More Affordable Than You Think?

“Can we afford to RV full-time?”

Anyone considering RVing full-time will invariably ask this important question. It’s usually among the first considerations for new RVers.

The primary concern isn’t necessarily about knowing one’s income. Most individuals are aware of the money they can access monthly as full-time RVers. The real uncertainty is about the costs of the new adventure. This is where many potential full-timers fall short, often severely underestimating the costs of full-time RVing.

How much does full time RV really cost?

Naturally, people might underestimate RVing costs. After all, transitioning to full-time RVing means eliminating costs such as house payments, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, HOA dues, and gym memberships. Many believe that after selling their house, they can clear debts. So, what expenses could remain?

Though full-time RVing entails higher fuel and camping fees, most expenses like food, car insurance, medical supplies, and pet food remain constant. Some then assume the additional costs of RVing couldn’t possibly surpass household and HOA payments. This assumption often leads to a harsh reality check.

Consider this example: We met a couple who sold their home and business to travel in a motorhome. Despite planning to sustain their lifestyle from the proceeds of the business sale and savings, they soon found that full-time RVing was pricier than anticipated. A few months in, they had to resort to daily labor jobs for sustenance. Ultimately, they returned to their former business as employees.

Stranded due to a lack of funds

Another couple’s experience was more heart-wrenching. While traveling, their Airstream trailer broke down in a small Washington town. Lacking funds for repairs, their financial situation spiraled. They sold their tow vehicle and became camp hosts at the local fairgrounds, relying on a modest job for basic necessities. This situation left them stranded, with a damaged trailer and limited prospects.

A great budgeting strategy

When we first ventured into full-time RVing in 2017, we met Nikki and Richard, seasoned RVers since 2014. Like many, we wondered about the affordability of this lifestyle. While we had a budget, we were unsure of its accuracy. Stories of others running into financial hardships lingered in our minds. Nikki and Richard shared their experiences and budgeting strategy with us.

Sticking to a $100 daily budget

Nikki mentioned that they tried to limit their daily expenses to $100, encompassing everything from food to healthcare. Calculated monthly, this amounted to about $3,000. The daily limit helped them stay on track, making adjustments when necessary.

Being new to the lifestyle, we initially thought $3,000 monthly seemed excessive. However, five years down the line, managing to spend just $3,000 in a month feels like a significant achievement.

Some manage on less than $1,000 a month

Every RVer’s experience is unique. We’ve come across individuals who consistently spend less than $1,000 monthly. Adapting to a budget, some full time RVers cut down on travel, while others opt for dispersed camping to minimize costs. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

Making choices on discretionary spending

Areas where RVers have control over spending include camping fees and dining. Campground fees can range from free to $200 per night. Many places offer discounted weekly or monthly rates.

Opting for free parking while in transit

Some RVers find solace in parking lots like Walmart or Cabela’s when traveling. In certain regions, RVers can also halt for the night in rest areas or truck stops. While these options lack amenities and can be noisy, they’re free and can offset costs.

Embracing dispersed camping

Dispersed camping, or boondocking, is free camping on public lands. While not everyone’s cup of tea, it can significantly reduce expenses. Some RVers frequently boondock for weeks at a time, incurring zero camp fees.

Considering campground memberships

While some might find parking in lots, gas stations, rest stops, or even boondocking in secluded areas unnerving, others thrive in these environments. Remember, everyone’s comfort level varies. If you prefer fully-equipped campsites with comprehensive amenities, then exploring campground memberships might help cut down on camping expenses.

With numerous options available, RVers should research to find a membership that matches their preferences and budget. While there’s an upfront enrollment cost and annual dues, the potential savings can be considerable. Some great options include Thousand Trails , Escapees , Harvest Hosts , and Boondockers Welcome .

Becoming a camp host

Another way to minimize campground fees is by taking on the role of a camp host. This involves staying at the campground for free in return for assisting with its operations.

Monitoring other discretionary expenditures

While campground fees might take up a significant chunk of your budget, other discretionary expenses can also impact your financials. For instance, dining out during travel days can quickly add up. Those occasional $70 dinners can increase your monthly expenses substantially. If you aim to spend just $100 per day, splurging on a single dinner leaves minimal room for other outlays.

Personal choices affecting the budget

Several expenses play into the RVing budget including gas, insurance, maintenance, food, pet care, medical insurance, and technology, among others. Personal preferences can greatly influence these costs. For example, our consistent high expenses stem from pet care and quality dog food. We made a conscious decision to prioritize our pets’ needs over other non-essential expenses like alcohol or soda. It’s crucial for RVers to tailor their budgets based on their values and resources.

How much we spend (on average)

For a clearer picture of our own spending, our average full-time RV expenses amount to about $4,500 a month, surpassing our $3,000 target. In fact, since 2017, we’ve consistently missed this mark.

Furthermore, we’ve been fortunate to not have any RV or car payments, freeing up a portion of our budget. Some of our significant expenses have included:

• Over $8,000 on pet care
• Around $4,000 on technology (internet access, gadgets, etc.)
• Our grocery bills were even lesser than our pet food expenses

Key budget categories to consider

If you’re planning your own full-time RV budget, it’s crucial to account for a range of categories:

• Food and groceries
• Medical bills
• Campsite charges
• Child-related expenses
• Recreation and entertainment
• Household supplies
• Vehicle-related costs (maintenance, payments, etc.)
• RV-specific costs and payments

Establishing a savings account for significant repairs

It’s wise to allocate funds for substantial maintenance tasks like battery replacements, brake repairs, and tire changes. For instance, we spent $2,000 on a brake job for our previous RV, and six new tires set us back over $3,000. Setting up a dedicated savings account for such costs can prove invaluable in the long run.

RV expenses add up

Every expenditure counts when you’re RVing full-time. Staying mindful of costs, whether it’s a dinner outing, a vet appointment, or a monthly internet bill, is essential to maintain your budget.

Recognizing your financial boundaries

Determining if you can afford full-time RVing boils down to your financial discipline and dedication. Those with vast resources might not need to ponder these details, but for many with limited incomes, budget management is vital. Reflecting on Nikki and Richard’s discipline with their $100 daily limit often makes us wonder about our own financial choices.

Get tips from other RVers

One of the best parts about RVing is engaging with the community of traveling enthusiasts. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and more.

You May Also Like:

What no one tells you about living in an rv full time, 10 common myths about full-time rving, the millers talk about the full-time rv lifestyle, our top 10 full time rv regrets, save money on full-time rv living monthly costs, the border hookups bring full-time rv living into focus, where can i park an rv full-time, how do full-time rvers get amazon packages delivered, the downside to living full time in an rv.

Peggy Dent is an author , writer, and full-time RVer, traveling around the US and Canada. She’s traveled more than 130,000 miles in a motorhome, over the past 20 years, and is currently writing for the RV industry. You can contact her through her website at   www.APenInYourHand.com.

Recent Posts

Browse By Category

Full Time RV Living: A Beginner’s Guide to Everything You Need to Know

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure page for full details.

Full time RV living: have you ever considered it? 

In the last few years, we Two Drifters have started thinking about our future. While we want to feel settled and have a home, we also know how much we love to travel, to drift…to not stay in one place. We want to have the comforts of a home base but also have the freedom to explore other places. To us, this is the best of both worlds.  So instead of buying a stationary, conventional home, it seems that living the RV lifestyle might suit us just fine.

But we’re not ready to jump in just yet. First, there will be some other steps we have to take, but in the name of research, we figured we’d start at least some of the planning and dreaming right now.

Fortunately, there are tons of awesome couples and families already living the RV life that we can learn from. These folks are doing this unique lifestyle in a variety of ways: some are living in a camper van, others are living in a motorhome, some have kids, some have pets, but all are pretty much living on the road full time. In other words, they’re living the dream! (PS: Check out some great gifts for RV lovers here !)

So, we’ve gathered a handful of them together to ask some pressing full time RVing questions. We’re total beginners (and we’re assuming if you’re reading this you likely are, too), so we started at the basics.

Where does a person even start when thinking about living in an RV? Is this an affordable lifestyle? What type of vehicle and RV do I need?

We bring to you our findings: the wisdom of some full time RVers who have been doing this from a couple months to a couple years. 

Table of Contents

Full-Time RV Living 101: A Guide

Thanks to all the current RVers who helped us put together this post! 

Nathalie and Louis ( We are Cedar Stream ) – on Instagram @cedar.stream

April & family – on Instagram @twinning_in_our_5thwheel

Gwen & C.J. ( Our Little Green Adventure ) – on Instagram @littlegreenadventure

Mandy ( Wilson Grand Adventures ) – on Instagram @wilsongrandadventures

Lindsay ( Follow Your Detour )- on Instagram @follow_your_detour

Mars, Ash, & Everly ( Fite Travels ) – on Instagram @fitetravels

Brittany – on Instagram @brittsimps

Hailey & John ( Wander Winnie ) – on Instagram @wander_winnie

Megan & Brandon ( Our Wild Road ) – on Instagram @ourwildroad

Courtney ( Out of Office Family ) – on Instagram  @outofofficefamily

Where Do You Even Start When it Comes to RV Living?

At the start, you may have lots of questions.

Can you live in an RV legally? Can you live in a travel trailer year round? Can I live in an RV full time?

The answer to all these questions is YES. 

The Initial Research – Getting Inspired

As you begin your research, you’ll probably spend a lot of time getting inspired by other RVers. Instagram is a great place like this (check out the accounts of our contributors above) as there are thousands of accounts all about that #RVLife. You’ll start to get excited browsing these images and it will give you lots of ideas as a starting point for embarking on your own full time camping life. 

There is so much to learn, so start slowly and figure out your goals. Money will be an important factor of course, and may help you limit your day-dreaming and start realistically planning.

Lindsay says: We recommend first getting an idea of how much it will cost you to RV based on your goals for choosing the lifestyle. You can really make it as expensive or inexpensive as you’d like. But once you get an idea of your goals (traveling vs downsizing and saving money vs) and you get a budget together, you can then determine what RV is a good fit for those goals and the travel style that’s a good fit as well. For example, boondocking (dry camping on free land) is a great way to save money if that’s one of your goals. If you’re wanting to travel and see as many places as you can, you’ll spend more money and you’ll need an RV that accommodates that well. Basically, deciding your goals and getting a financial plan will help guide you along the decisions. Then, list off your biggest obstacles or questions and tackle them one at a time. Our greatest source of learning is just asking other RVers and searching blogs, Pinterest, and YouTube!

Check out their resource: The Most Commonly Asked Questions About Full-Time Rving

Other RVers had similar tips about research, which will help you figure out not only how to get started and which rig to choose from, but also will provide general useful RVing tips.

Ashley H. says: Honestly, I am a researcher so I spent many early mornings and late nights researching EVERYTHING. I wanted to know all of the must-haves, ways to save space and maximize that space too. I haven’t found anything just yet that I wish I knew but that may change one day. Researching everything was life-saving!

Mars, Ash, and Everly say : The best advice we could give to anyone would be to really take time to ask yourself what you want in every area of your life. Take the time to get specific and ask yourself the questions that might make you feel uneasy. We took about six weeks to focus on creating a vision for our lives, and it has paid off in so many ways. It’s helped us to know when to say yes and when to say no. It’s given us motivation and purpose and passion. Whether you want to live in a RV full time or just experience more freedom or control over your life, creating a super clear vision is imperative to living out your dream life.

Hailey and John say: Choose a rig and go from there. For us being easily navigable was our first priority, second priority was a good amount of space. (so small….but not too small…haha) Think about your NEEDS, what does your life require you to bring? Do you want to tow a car? Do you want to invest in a large vehicle capable of towing? Etc!  Second thing is to think about BUDGET. We did NOT want to finance a vehicle…we were trying to escape being tied down to debt by living on the road! For us saving a little money and paying cash on a fixer-upper was the way to go.

Getting Rid of Debt & Downsizing

As you’re dreaming and planning, you can start taking other steps to prepare yourself for the full-time RV lifestyle. 

Megan and Brandon say: The first recommendation is not to overthink it, and just do it! But it’s definitely a process to transition into the lifestyle. Our first step was paying off all our debt and lowering our monthly bills to next to nothing. Like most people, we had car payments, medical bills, student loans, etc. We got rid of it all before we went on the road. Then, start getting rid of all your stuff. We put some things in storage but we’re going to end up selling it all. It’s SO NICE to not have stuff holding you back.

How to Pick the Best RV to Live in Full Time

What is the best travel trailer for full time living? Which is the best RV for full time family living? What’s the best fifth wheel for full time living? What is the best motorhome to live in full time?

So many questions! Perhaps the most crucial step in the process is selecting your rig. Obviously, this decision is going to vary greatly depending on your lifestyle, your family size, your budget, your desires/needs, and much more. Plus, you’ll be deciding between the various vehicle options and setups and even investigating brands of RV and motorhome.

This article can serve as a starting point for your RV vehicle research. To lay out some of the pros and cons of the various options, check out the responses below. The end results for each family are very diverse.

What Kind of Setup Do You Need for RV Living?

What’s the best setup for RVing full time or even part-time? Is it better to have a motorhome or a vehicle-tow situation? Why?

Nathalie and Louis say: We have a 1969 Airstream Globetrotter. The Globetrotter model was created for traveling the world, even in places with rough road conditions. It’s only 20 ft. long and has high ground clearance. We love this because we get to camp in the coolest places, our little house fits places other trailers don’t. What type of home on wheels you have is personal preference, so I can only speak for us and our opinions. In a full time situation, we will always choose having a truck and trailer. Our biggest reason is vehicle maintenance. If our truck has a problem we can drop our trailer somewhere and keep living in it, while the truck is getting fixed. If it’s unrepairable, we get a new one and we didn’t lose our home. That’s not the case with a van or motorhome. We don’t ever want to be in a situation where we are living in a shop parking lot (best case scenario), paying for an extended hotel stay, or losing our home due to expensive mechanical issues. We would consider other options, if we weren’t full time. There are some awesome camper vans out there that inspire us.

Jen and Dustin say: We have a Cherokee Arctic Wolf 295 QSL8 5th Wheel. We invested in a 5th wheel for one major reason: it feels more like a home than any other model. Ours has a full kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc. and the main living areas have high ceilings. I would never have been on board with a van, class A/B/C etc. because they feel so cramped, and it just wouldn’t work for our lifestyle.

Hailey and John say: We have a 1991 Winnebago Micro warrior. It has a v6 Toyota Engine that is super fuel efficient and reliable! Being only 21’ long we are just a little bigger than a normal parking space, PLUS we won’t miss out on any beautiful roads because of ‘length restrictions.’ Our little rig also has a full bathroom, kitchen, dining area, sofa, and full size bed!

Lindsay says: We have a 2018 Winnebago Navion 24 D class C motorhome and we tow a Jeep Wrangler behind it. Benefits are that it’s only 25 feet long, making it super easy to navigate and park. We can fit almost anywhere, including parking downtown in busy cities! Weused to tow a 30 foot fifth-wheel and the motorhome is also much easier to just “hop in and go”. We don’t have to worry about hitching up! We also love that on travel days, we have access to our kitchen and bathroom…actually, our whole house. We don’t have to stop for lunch or to use the restroom. In fact, we take turns driving and working since the passenger can sit at our dinette and work and even have a seatbelt. Efficiency I tell you! 

April says: I have a Keystone Montana 3295RK (2005) I love this type because Keystone makes quality RV’s. Ours is a 5th wheel so the ceiling height makes the rig feel larger. Ours is also equipped with an aluminum frame so it’s all weather which is nice as well.

Brittany says: We have a 2004 Fleetwood Terry 320BDHS. It’s light and it only has one slide out. We chose a travel trailer over a fifth wheel because we already had everything we needed to pull vs finding a new vehicle (or renting a vehicle) with the fifth wheel hitch. We also have three small children that are all in car seats so we opted out of buying a motor home because we didn’t want to have to figure out the car seat situation while traveling.

Gwen & CJ say: We drive our 32’ Class C RV and tow a Jeep Wrangler behind. In our opinion, either having a motorhome with a tow vehicle, or a truck pulling a camper is ideal. Reason being, if you get to a spot you’re intending to stay at for a long period of time, its nice to be able to set up more of a home base in your trailer- Putting out your camping chairs, being able to have a vase of flowers out, etc, etc, and not having to pack everything up the moment you want to go anywhere. Having another vehicle to explore the area in can be incredibly helpful. The second reason is if you’re looking at a bigger rig, driving it down to a coffee shop and maneuvering it through smaller parking lots can be a challenge. Once again, having another vehicle can be very helpful.

Mandy says: We have a 2000 Class A – Damon Challenger 305. It’s 35 foot with one super slide. This model had the criteria we were looking for in buying a motorhome; lots of storage, layout that we could convert an area into bunks for our two kids, engine strong enough to tow a Chevy Traverse weighing 4,900 pounds, a layout we could renovate and call home. This is our first motorhome and we have been very pleased with the model, layout, power and layout for our renovated house of wheels. We also love the fact that we don’t have to pull over to grab snacks!

Do you need a truck to tow an RV? What kind?

Jen and Dustin say: YES. Without getting super technical, you need a truck with a towing capacity so that you can safely tow whatever you purchase. Do your research, and don’t trust what the dealerships tell you. Our rig is advertised as “half-ton towable”. However, if you’re living in it full-time your trailer you’re going to have a LOT of extra weight. We purchased a RAM 2500 that came with a tow package for our 5th wheel (it’s considered a ¾ ton). We feel that it handles our 34 foot trailer well, and never worry about losing control.

Ashley H says: It really depends on what type of RV you have to figure out what vehicle you need. My husband has a F-150 that hauls ours completely fine and could probably go a little larger in size too but if we ever switched to a 40+ FT he would need an F-250 for sure! Even though we have yet to test it out my Toyota Sienna minivan is actually fully equipped to haul travel trailers smaller in size!

Where Can You Stay in Your RV?

Where can I park my RV long term? Where can I park my RV to live?

Maybe one of the biggest mysteries about living on the road in an RV is where families park their rig. Well, just as there are many options to choose from when it comes to travel trailers and setups, there are also plenty of alternatives for where you’ll stay. But, no matter where you go, as they say, “home is where you park it.”

Many RVers prefer a more off-the-grid lifestyle.

Nathalie and Louis say: We are full time boondockers. This means our trailer is self-contained and we live off grid 365 days a year. We love finding rural spots and feeling so small and alone in this big, beautiful world.

Gwen & CJ say: We outfitted our RV to boondock most of the time, meaning we find government owned land (often BLM land) and camp there without hookups. You can camp for free on BLM land for up to 14 days. We love to stay out in wide open spaces, surrounded by nature rather than side by side other RV’s in an RV park.

Megan and Brandon say : We boondock exclusively, so we do not pay for camping. We utilize Campendium and freecampsites.net , and even Google Maps, to find public lands to camp on. We mainly camp in Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. So far we have stayed on some gorgeous land.

Others living full time on the road prefer more organized amenities and civilization:

Jen & Dustin say: RV Parks or “resorts” with at least a 4 star rating, a dog park and full hookups. I, Jen, do extensive research and read Google reviews, and utilize other websites to make sure we are going to a safe area. We only do monthly stays (way more affordable than daily or weekly rates) so obviously the park has to offer those as well.

Ashley H says: We choose to stay at RV parks that have several amenities for our kids. Swimming pools that are heated, outdoor fishing lakes, laundromats, clubhouses with games or conference centers and monthly activities.

And other families do a bit of both:

Lindsay says: Anywhere and everywhere. We’ve gone from busy cities like Washington D.C. and San Francisco to wide open spaces in national parks. There’s honestly nowhere you can’t drive an RV…well except overseas! We’ve street parked discretely in the city, we’ve boondocked on BLM and forest land and even right on the beach. We’ve also treated ourselves to luxury RVs. There’s something for everyone, even the glampers! We like to mix it up and it really depends on the destination and what it offers.

Visiting Family and Friends

One of the benefits of having a truly mobile home is that you can more easily visit family and friends. What we’ve always wondered is how feasible it is to just park in a family member’s driveway in your RV. Is this possible? It seems it’s not as simple as rolling up and putting down stakes wherever you’d like. There may be more research needed. 

Gwen & CJ say: If you are looking to visit family or friends in a city or suburb, you should check the local laws and with the local Home Owners Association(HOA). Different neighborhoods across the US will have different HOA zoning rules that dictate if/where you can park your RV and for how long. C.J.’s family lives in a suburban area outside of Dallas and we are only allowed to street park there between Thanksgiving and New Years Day. Gwen’s family lives out in the country so parking there is always an option for us.

Mandy says : Yes! We have done this several times. If you fit and there’s no restrictions, you can park on their property. You will need to know if they have RV hookups or not. If not, you won’t be able to plug in. If family or friends do not have either a 30amp/50amp plug you can always purchase a converter to plug in your RV. Just keep in mind that when converting to a house 15 amp plug, I would only recommend using it for charging your house batteries or refrigerator but not recommended for running your AC or microwave as it will be too much power.

Lindsay says: We park in Dan’s parents’ driveway all the time and my mom’s neighborhood allows it on the street for a few days as well. It’s nice to have your own home and space with you rather than staying in guest bedrooms. So we “moochdock” (park on family and friends property) as often as possible. Otherwise, you can find RV parks and campgrounds that will allow you to park overnight for a small fee. Or, there’s always Walmart and if you feel comfortable you can leave your RV in their parking lot overnight if you’d rather stay with family. But that’s only for one night. If we’re staying for longer periods, we just pay to store the RV somewhere and it’s not usually over $100 a month.

Ashley H says: We haven’t crossed this bridge just yet but I think this is going to depend on the length of the stay and who you are visiting. My in-laws live on unrestricted acreage so we can park it there and have no issues. My parents and sister/brother in law live in the suburbs with HOA enforced. If it is just a quick visit I think parking it in the driveway may be doable but for longer visits we will most likely leave it parked at the RV campground and drive our vehicle to physically stay in their home.

What is the Cost of Full Time RV Living?

One of the biggest considerations when it comes to motorhome living for beginners has to be budget. Does living in an RV full time cost as much as living in a traditional home? How much does it cost to RV full time? Are there ways to save money on the cost of full time RVing ? 

Overall, it seems that this lifestyle offers the opportunity to live more affordably. 

Nathalie and Louis say: This lifestyle is absolutely affordable! Our total monthly expenses are equivalent to the rent of a two bedroom apartment, in both of the places we are from. We are fully off grid and that keeps our cost of living minimal. The cash up front is an investment, but it has paid for itself multiple times over.

April says: I definitely feel that this is more affordable and more empowering because you own your own home, and that feels great. A lot of times park rent is much cheaper than rent In our case, we were paying over $2,000 a month on rent and utilities and now we dont even pay $1,000.

Ashley H says: I think this question is going to honestly vary for everyone. I know living in an RV will present its challenges and expenses but in our case it’s substantially less and does save us quite a bit of money. We lost the mortgage expense, HOA fees, lawncare, cable, security, internet and so many other frivolous things we were used to paying living in a suburbs home of almost 3000 sq ft.

Mars, Ash, and Everly say: I definitely think it can be [affordable]. We travel A LOT, so we spend a lot on gas, which often brings our monthly vehicle/gas payment up to the cost of what it was living in a house with bills. However, we no longer have our two car payments. Also, we often opt out of staying in a hotel on the road. Our jobs put us on the road, so before having our van, we often spent money staying in hotels. Living in a van has made life a lot simpler. I have limited space to collect things. I don’t go on shopping sprees. It makes it easier to say no when I see cute things I want to decorate with because where would I put it? It’s made me recognize that I have more than enough, and I don’t need to buy anything else.

Kirs & Dev say:  Yes! Nashville rent is around $1,500-2,500 for one bedroom. I pay $600 monthly with electric included.

Lindsay says: Absolutely! It can be super affordable if you’re willing to make some sacrifices. There are tons of ways to save money on the road like free parking, cooking in, utilizing RV memberships, traveling less often to save on gas, etc. But overall, you buy less since you have less space and avoid monthly bills like cable, trash, utilities, and the costs of maintaining a house.

Hailey and John say: SO FAR YES! We are parking for free as much as possible and budgeting $1,000 a month on average.

But sometimes, the costs do add up, too.

Dustin & Jen say : I wish I had known what the expenses were going to be. So many people were like “just boondock everywhere! The RV lifestyle is so cheap and affordable!”. However, my job depends on phone reception and internet connection. Oh, and we NEEDED electricity without depending on generators every day. Boondocking just wasn’t going to work for us. We did research on the cost of RV parks—but only for certain regions. We’ve been primarily in the Southwest since living full- time, and had no idea that we were looking at $700+ a month on the low end PLUS the payment for our 5th wheel. It’s just as expensive as apartment living sometimes! We stayed in Vegas for the month of January and it was SO COLD! We spent over $300 on propane just to heat our rig, shower, cook, etc.—and that was also having an electric fireplace!

Courtney says: It all depends entirely on how you travel and what types of places you are comfortable staying. If you want a giant new rig, only want to stay at RV resorts with all the amenities and move around once a week, it may not be less expensive than your life in a sticks & bricks. However, if you end up with a more budget-conscious rig, move less often and are open to boondocking, it can definitely be less expensive.  

RVing with Pets

Many people who embrace living in a camper full time seem to also be animal lovers, like us. With plans to get a dog of our own this summer (yay!) we wanted to know for the future what the challenges of full time RV living with pets might be. RVing with dogs seems to be a great thing, but certainly must present its fair share of obstacles.

Nathalie and Louis say: We love having our dog with us everywhere we go, but it does have a few challenges. Most national parks don’t allow pets, so we end up skipping the lengthy hikes and just spend a couple hours driving around the park, checking out easily accessible spots, while the dog waits in the car. This may sound very limiting to some, but since we can’t go to the popular places, we find other trails just outside the parks. We have found incredible hidden gems, ones we never would have sought out, had our dog not made us think outside the box. Our dog gives us more opportunities than limitations, I love traveling with our pup.

Jen & Dustin say: We have a golden retriever, so we do whatever we can to stay at places that have dog parks in them or are close to dog parks. If it doesn’t have a dog park, we try and find out if there are grassy areas dogs are allowed on. Our dog is VERY social, and meeting new dogs and people everywhere we go has been a huge plus of fulltime RV living.

Ashley H. says: We have two dogs and making sure they had their own space was important. We invested in a large metal dog crate to put on our RV pad with faux turf giving them a feel of a yard to be outside during the day and coming it to sleep at night. This is how the set up was when we were home, therefore nothing really changed for living in the RV. We take them anytime we go to a food truck as well to get them out and allow them to have that time with us. We also find RV parks that have dog parks or dog walking stations which helps too!

Gwen & C J say: We travel with our two dogs and our cat. Temperature control in hot weather is the biggest challenge we face. Because we boondock 99% of the time, we don’t have an external power source to plug our RV into to be able to run our air conditioning unit, (which doesn’t work too well anyway.) So we rely on our solar to power fans throughout the house. On super hot days, we don’t leave the pets in the RV alone. The other challenge we face is that most National Parks have very strict rules on where you can bring your dogs. Because of this, we are unable to camp inside of some national parks.

Lindsay says: Our dogs have adjusted really well. We try to get them out of the RV as much as possible so they don’t feel too cooped up. They get more exercise than they did when we lived in a house or apartment. We can usually bring them along on our adventures since we love to hike and walk around downtown and sit on patios. Lots of cities are very dog-friendly , which is great. National parks, however, aren’t and most do not allow dogs on trails. This presents a challenge when we want to explore and the weather is hot during the summer. We have to ensure we are hooked up to electricity to leave the air conditioning on. Even then, we always worry about losing power or the A/C going out and us not knowing and being gone. We put a sign on our door that says “Dogs on board, call ____ in the case of an emergency”. Having a fire or something happening to us while we are out and the dogs being stuck inside is my biggest fear so I take every precaution. There are pet monitors that are super helpful and allow you to watch your dog from a camera in the RV and your cell phone. But overall, we’ve never had any issues! They make the travel even more fun for us and we love having them tag along.

Full Time RV Living with Kids

What about living in a camper with kids?

This is something Nathan and I definitely wonder about. Since we’re not yet parents, we are curious about how families with kids and babies do life on the road. There are many questions, such as how a whole family can fit in an RV, how do the kids attend school when living in an RV, and more.

Well, it turns out there are, as usual, options. Many parents choose to homeschool or “road school” their school-aged children, which is really amazing. Others live in RVs that are more stationary, so the kids are able to attend a traditional school. Let’s look closer at the challenges from our RVing families:

Brittany says: When it comes to RV living & schooling I see a lot of homeschool families, which is so incredible! Because we are stationary we chose to keep our kids in public school & do most of our traveling on weekends and during the summer. Although I will admit, the perks of homeschooling are becoming more & more appealing.

Ash and Mars say: We have a four-year-old daughter, Everly. Currently, we are homeschooling her. Life on the road has made homeschooling really fun. We are always in new places, discovering new things! We apply real-life situations to her learning. We have to work as a team when we are on the road, and she is a part of our decisions and day-to-day living.

As for considerations of living in a smaller space with children: 

Ashley F. says: I did a ton of research so I wanted to create a space for the kids that allowed my husband and I to still have our privacy and be able to keep them content in their own room as well. We renovated our RV and make a custom “kids suite” with 4 bunk beds, pull out storage drawers, a play/desk area, their own TV, black out blinds AND a thick “sound proof” door as well.

And of course there are challenges:

Ash, Mars, and Everly say: In particular, finding other families on the road is difficult. Social media has been incredibly helpful actually, we’ve met and made some pretty great friends thanks to finding like-minded people on social platforms. Our daughter is an extrovert through and through and loves being around other kids. We make it a priority to find friends for her to play with. It’s allowed us to help her gain the confidence to walk up to kids she doesn’t know and tell them her name and ask them to play. She’s become really amazing at making instant friends with people from all over

Courtney says: Lack of regular socialization. Sometimes we can go weeks without there being other kids for them to play with. That can be really tough on our four-year old, whose #1 priority in life is having friends to play with. Saying good-bye to friends we make on the road is really tough as well. Sometimes we know we might not ever see them again and that can be difficult to explain to small kids.

Renovating Your RV

While you can certainly buy a motorhome or camper that is brand new and outfitted with all the bells and whistles you desire, that is a costly endeavor. Instead, you might opt for an older model of travel trailer and do a bit of DIY RV renovation like many of our contributors did.

And even a new RV might require some remodeling and updates.

Jen & Dustin say: People thought we were crazy when we purchased a brand new 5th wheel and decided to remodel it…but we couldn’t live with all-brown-everything! I grew up working on construction projects with my Dad, so everything we did I had some experience in. The biggest difference in our RV was made by removing the valances and just painting nearly everything white. It’s something anyone can do! I also follow @RVFixerUpper @prvbsthirtyonegirl on Instagram and they are always posting DIY’s to help! We also reached out to friends and family to help with something they had experience with (we either paid them or fed them for their services haha). Also, Heathandalyssa.com were instrumental in our decision to do this in the first place!

Ashley H. says: We renovated the RV entirely. Our RV was old and everything was original. We painted, did peel and stick wallpaper, faux shiplap, new appliances, custom built the kids “suite” and popped in an incredible sleeper sofa with memory gel foam mattress from affirm. I wanted to give our RV a fresh look while making it cozy the way our homes always feel.

Gwen & CJ say: We renovated nearly everything in our RV. The only things still there from the original design are the cabinets (with a fresh coat of paint), the toilet &amp; shower, and the cab. Along with renovating the interior, we painted the exterior and converted our rig to solar power to allow us to dry camp. We learned pretty much everything from Youtube, blogs, and trial and error.

Hailey and John say: YES. ALL OF IT. We GUTTED our RV and spent 8 months repairing and rebuilding. We rebuilt the cabover sleeping bunk and rear wall completely. We gutted the kitchen and bathroom and put in new counters, faucets and backsplashes. The entire thing including all cabinets has been repainted + new vinyl flooring installed.  I sewed curtains and seat cushions. We resealed all exterior compartments and corner trims. WE HAVE TOUCHED EVERY INCH OF THIS THING. I like to think we were the perfect team on this project. I researched all RV related repairs (what sealants to use, what to buy) and John helped bring it all to life with the tools and muscle. Then when we got to the interior after the building portion was complete, I took over with the paint, fixtures, electrical, decor and textiles. Youtube and the Toyota Motorhome facebook groups have been our main sources of info.

Nathalie and Louis say : We fully gutted our Airstream and did a frame up renovation. Louis is a carpenter, so we were fortunate to have the tools and knowledge to build our tiny home. Everything was custom built to maximize our space and have storage in every spot possible. Our house is perfect for us and I’m thrilled with how it turned out.

April says: Yes we renovated everything ourself. We painted everything, ripped out a lot of cabinets and carpet and linoleum and replaced the floors with vinyl wood planks, and we are in the process of renovating our bathroom too.

Mandy says: Yes. We renovated our entire RV. This was something that was a priority for me as I don’t enjoy the décor of RVs. We have done lots of renovations on our home for over 10 years and that’s really how we got started. This was our first RV so it was a different learning curve. We painted the outside, turned a closet into bunk beds for the kids, removed a dinette and replaced it with bar-style seating, then removed the passenger seat and turned it into a sectional style couch. All new bedding, blankets, pillows, and décor items were added.

Working on the Road – Full Time RV Jobs

It’s one thing to live on the road full time, but how do you manage to earn an income? How do people living this lifestyle work while traveling or living in an RV? And perhaps most important of all, wow does one get WiFi?

CJ & Gwen say: Being web designers, having internet connection is incredibly important. Because of this, we traded our cable and internet bills for an upgraded cell phone data plan and a hotspot. Most day to day tasks can be handled using our hotspots and a cell phone booster. When needed, if our signal isn’t strong enough or we have to upload a large amount of files, we take the jeep out to the nearest establishment with WiFi and work from there for a few hours.

Mandy says: We have a JetPack from Verizon. We chose the MiFi 8800L model because it has the most up to date technology and allows up to 15 devices to be connected at once with a prepaid unlimited data plan. We have been able to use the internet on the road, at the beach, at friend’s homes, anywhere. You just need Verizon 4G service.

Ashley H. says: So far the RV parks are all equipped with wifi but if we ever choose to boondock we will want to invest in something to help us with internet. They have plenty of options out there that cost roughly $500-$700 for something really good and I have heard they work wonders!

Dustin and Jen say: We use Verizon Above Unlimited & a cell booster. Each of our cell phones gets 75GB of streaming data (think watching Hulu or Netflix) and 20GB of Hotspot data (we use for work computers). We also have a MiFi device with 20GB of Hotspot data. All in all, if we are in areas with cell phone reception, our internet is covered!

Lindsay says: We have a dedicated hotspot with unlimited data from AT&T, and use our cell phones from Verizon as a backup. This works great for us because we find that between these two carriers, we can normally get a decent signal. We typically don’t have problems staying connecting, but there have definitely been times where we were unable to stay at a certain spot because of the lack of signal – we find this to be common in National Parks. Many RV parks and campgrounds offer free WiFi when you stay with them. However, the WiFi can be pretty spotty at most parks, especially when the park is full. If worse comes to worse, you can always find coffee shops, libraries, and other businesses who offer WiFi. We recently got a WeBoost to improve the strength and speed of our cellular data and we couldn’t be more happy with it. At one particular campground, we had zero service and couldn’t even check our email from our phones, but after connecting the WeBoost, we were able to stream a movie!! The basic idea with the WeBoost is that you install a special, high power antenna which allows your devices to connect to a stronger, more reliable signal.

Challenges of RV Living

Finally, let’s break it down with some helpful full time RV living tips. There are going to be difficulties with this unconventional way of living, but that’s ok. 

Brittany says: Expect to always be in someone’s way! As a family of five, we’ve had to learn to communicate better when it comes to moving & navigating through the camper (something you rarely ever do in a stocks & bricks home). Although this has been a huge obstacle for us, it’s also brought us so much closer as a family.

Courtney says: We wish there was a hands-on, crash course on RV maintenance we could have taken prior to getting on the road. We had never even camped as a family–let alone ever done anything in a RV– before we purchased one and hit the road. We definitely didn’t know as much as we wish we would have about maintaining our home on wheels and that has resulted in some issues during the year that could have possibly been prevented.

Lindsay says: We miss being plugged into and involved in a community. We can’t volunteer at church anymore or do certain hobbies, such as Brazilian Jui Jitsu in Dan’s case. It can also be challenging to balance feeling like you’re on vacation and reality. We’re constantly having to be aware of our budget and being careful not to overspend while in new and exciting locations. Also, when you work from the road, it’s tough to find a routine and schedule that keeps you productive. We’re always tempted to go explore the destination we’re in and procrastinate on work. And of course, we always miss our friends and family from home!

Kirs & Dev say: Everything breaks all the time. There is always something that needs to be fixed. New or old, comes with the RV life.

Driving your rig, especially for the first time can be one of those challenges, too. 

Mandy says: Anything you do for the first time is a little nerve racking. Especially when you are used to driving a 4-door sedan or small SUV. The first time I drove a motorhome was the day we left the lot after paying for it. Honestly, after the initial shock of being so high off the ground, how wide and long a 35′ motorhome is and how to operate it, it really isn’t difficult to drive. I now prefer driving the motorhome because of the amazing view from behind the wheel.

Dustin and Jen say: Dustin would say yes! Mostly because you can’t just drive on auto—you have to be aware of everything going on around you, make sure your tires are at the correct pressure, your trailer is hitched correctly, and constantly be watching the weather. You don’t want to be driving when it’s too windy or you could tip your rig and crash. It helps if you have a truck you are confident in.

Advice for Future Full Time RVers

Gwen & CJ say: This lifestyle isn’t necessarily easy, but it is incredibly rewarding. There will be times in the first few months of your adventure that you may take a step back and wonder what the heck you were thinking. Know that no two full-timers have the same journey. You will encounter your own obstacles, your own mistakes, and your own wondrous surprises. Even if you don’t know how to do something right now, trust in yourself, that you will figure it out, that your life experiences have prepared you for this journey. And know that the challenges you overcome will bring you a sense of great accomplishment and gratitude that you were brave enough to take it on in the first place.

Dustin and Jen say: RV living can be exactly what you need it to be, with options ranging from a small camper-van to luxury motorcoaches—it’s customizable to your lifestyle. Just know what you want up-front, do your research, and know what you are committing to. We love it for this season of our life!

Ashley H. says: I say if living small, being debt free, traveling the world or any other reason is something someone wants to do then go for it. We get one life to live and I say we live it. The way we choose to and not the way others want us to.

Megan and Brandon say: I don’t think there’s any secret thing you need to know before doing it. I wish we just went ahead and sold all of our stuff. We put a lot of furniture in storage but I just don’t see us going back to that lifestyle anytime soon. We have everything we need in our camper.

What do you wish you’d known before embarking on the RVing lifestyle?

Lindsay says : How sustainable it is! In a way we felt as though we’d be taking time away from life or pressing the pause button while we went for an adventure. We figured we’d last a year. But, we’ve managed to work from the road just fine while living out our travel dreams. In fact, we’ve found that the road has opened up so many opportunities for us that we may have never found otherwise. We’ve expanded our skill sets, network, and overall feel more inspired and live with more intention. There are so many other benefits to the lifestyle other than just the adventure.

Could YOU live the long-term RV lifestyle? Why or why not?

Amy Hartle   is the author of Do You Love Me? How To Stop Seeking Reassurance in Relationships , a book on reassurance seeking and relationship anxiety. Both her book and this blog are born of personal experience; Amy shares expert relationship advice from the lessons learned during her own 10+ years with her husband, as well as couples travel tips and romantic getaway recommendations, all gleaned while traveling the world together.

23 Honest Answers About Living In An RV Full Time

Sharing is caring!

Living in an RV full time is a BIG decision to make for anyone! Yet, more and more people are choosing to live the RV life lately. 

A friend of mine told me the other day that when she first launched into the full time RV lifestyle 5 years ago, they never had a problem pulling into a campground without a reservation and finding an open campsite. 

Now, in 2023, if you don’t have a reservation, you may just want to keep on driving. 

Wait now…don’t be discouraged. I’m not writing this to make you feel like you can’t be living in an RV year round, traveling the states, and making your dreams come true (if those are your dreams).

Not at all!

Instead, I want to take the time to answer the BIG questions we get asked about living in an RV full-time and how to prepare for full time RV living.

Here are 23 questions we’ve been asked during our first 2 years as a full time RV family, in case full time camping is a dream of yours.

Side note – Full time RV travel or full timing is something we love to help others learn if it’s a good fit for them! 

THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. THIS POST WAS WRITTEN BY JILL GREISING-MURSCHEL , A FAMILY TRAVEL AND RV LIVING EXPERT .

Looking for a great resource to help you keep your RV Organized? ‘ Organize Your RV Like a Pro ‘ is a digital ebook that I created just for you! Use the code: SaveBig to save 20% now!

Questions We Are Asked About Living In An RV Full Time

1. how do you handle living in such a small space.

In all honesty, our goal is to spend as little time INSIDE our RV each day. We try our hardest to get everyone outside and in the sunshine if there is any sun that day. 

We use our RV for sleeping, cooking and eating, and having shelter when the weather isn’t the greatest. Living in a motorhome has helped us get out of the elements when needed, while also allowing us to move easily. 

We work on staying organized in our RV and using our space wisely.

Okay, sometimes we use the space for working if the kids are outside and we need a quiet space to get work done.

2. How do you get your mail while RVing?

Looking for the best mail forwarding service for RVers ? We signed up for a great mail forwarding service through  Escapees and have had nothing but good things to say about them.

It’s super simple and inexpensive to sign up and receive a REAL mailing address in either Texas or Florida. They receive our mail, scan a picture of each envelope and email it to us.

We then can choose to pay an extra $0.50 to have them open the envelope and email us scanned copies of the contents. 

When we arrive at a campground that accepts packages, or a friend’s house, we’ll have Escapees forward our mail to us. I’d say we do this about once every six weeks or so. 

Overall, we’ve tried to go as paperless as we can while living in a RV. Yet, the government still sends us snail mail that we can’t get away from….jury summons anyone! 

Click here to find some excellent RV gift ideas.

3. Can I just use WiFi at campgrounds to work online?

NO! Not unless you want to knock your head on the table a few times as you wait for your email to load.

I’m actually very serious. 

WiFi found at campgrounds is notoriously slow and not something to rely on if you need functional internet connection to work. 

So, if you’re living the RV lifestyle and need the internet to work, then you’ll need more reliable internet. We keep 3 cell phone providers with hotspots that we use to stay connected in MOST places around the country.

Click here to read our deep dive into internet on the road.

This is one of the best full-time RV living tips I can share with you….learn how to get functional internet in your RV!

Sorry, the top of the Rocky Mountains or the bottom of the  Grand Canyon will not have any cell signal.

So don’t think you can set up shop for a week of full time camper living in the high mountains and get any access to the internet.

4. How much does it cost to live in an RV full time?

In short, it can cost $600 – $6,000 per month depending on your family size, if you own your RV and an extra vehicle or if you’re making payments on them, and where you decide to camp.

So, how much does full time RV living cost for most people? 

Camping fees can vary across the country and across the types of camping. So when we’re asked how much does living in an RV full time cost, it can be a bit tricky. 

If you want to have full hookups (water, electric, sewer) then you’ll most likely want to find a private campground and should expect to pay $35-$75 per night depending on if you’re in Tennessee or California. 

Now, if you hope to camp in some amazing  National Parks , or some of the beautiful State Parks, then you’ll often pay $20-$30 per night and have a variety of lesser hook-up options. 

For example, in most National Park campgrounds, you are ‘dry-camping’….which means no electric, water, or sewer. Many state parks have water and electric and most campgrounds have a dump station on site….but not all, so be sure to plan ahead.

Oh, and National Parks RV length limits can also hold you back if you’re much longer than 35 feet.

The best way to experience cheap RV living is to  learn how to boondock . Especially if you’re out West. When we camp without hookups on BLM land (Bureau of Land Management), we save a ton of money by camping for free.

The cost of full-time RVing can vary. It really depends on your lifestyle and goals.

Download your Free RV Budget Workbook

11-pages of useful worksheets!

5. What do you do to make money on the road?

This was the BIG question that we had ourselves before we decided to go RVing full time. 

It’s also one of the most frequently asked questions we’ve had on the blog.

People are often wondering how to make money while living in an RV full time. We realized that we were not alone.

There are a variety of ways we’ve been making money on the road, and we had to work hard to ‘think outside the box’ to come up with them.

First off, Tony applied to several fully remote jobs before we launched and was offered a full-time job with a website hosting company based out of Paris, France. Everyone in the company works remotely and he’s even provided with medical benefits! 

I (Jill) make money almost exclusively now with this travel blog ! You see, we started it as a business in hopes to earn money WHILE helping people such as you. It’s been working for us.

Click here if you want to learn how to start a travel blog.

Over the last few years, I have also worked as a Pinterest Manager, and Project Manager, and I’ve taught English online to children in China with VIPKID. They have all given me ways to help bring some income into our family, and save money so we can do the fun travel things.

If you’re thinking….that’s great Jill…but I can’t do any of those things. What else? Then  check on this post as we listed 25 different jobs for full time RVers and other types of travelers.

Or learn about 19 other digital nomad jobs here .

6. What’s your favorite place that you’ve visited?

This is a tough question to answer with only listing ONE place. I’d say some of our favorites have been  Glacier National Park  in Montana during the summer,  Acadia National Park  in Maine in the fall, and the   Florida Keys in the winter. 

So far, our kids will often say the same places, even though they did enjoy visiting Disney’s Magic Kingdom , New York City, and Zion National Park .

7. Why did you choose a Class C RV?

Ah yes, choosing the best RV to live in full time with 4 kids was a bit of a struggle. Something we did, that I think helped us a lot, was to create a list of A features and B features when looking through all the layouts in order to help us choose our family RV.

Our top 3 A items were: 

1. Designated sleeping area for all 6 of us that did not have to be modified each day.

2. No carpet under the dinette – kids with carpet equals a mess!

3. The ability to get on the road full-time quickly without having to shop around too much for an RV.

You see, when we jumped into RV living full time, we wanted to hit the road right away. Shopping around for a 6-seater truck that could tow a fifth wheel and selling our minivan seemed a bit too much.

That’s why we kept our minivan, which was paid for, and bought one new vehicle…our Class C motorhome with bunk slides. We made it all happen in about 3 months!

After two years in, I can honestly say we loved our set-up and living in a motorhome and named it ‘Morph’. Discover some fun RV names if you’ve recently bought an RV and want to name your rig.

8. What is the WHY behind living in an RV full time?

We’ve always had such a sense of wanderlust, but more than that, we wanted to travel more with our kids right now. Not waiting for someday down the road or to just take one week a year for a vacation. 

I also need to mention here that the Minnesota winters were getting to us and we wanted to follow the warmth and sunshine. 

Our WHY is really about wanting to live each day to the fullest, minimally, intentionally, with our children beside us. They grow up way too fast and we don’t know what tomorrow’s going to bring. 

With Tony’s type 1 diabetes , we know that come retirement age, he may not be able to go mountain biking in Utah or hike the Tetons . Yet, if we do those things NOW, then he can actually improve his health, and chances of being able to do just those things will increase.

Read related blog: 10 Hidden Benefits of RV Living You Didn’t Know

9. What do you do for RV insurance?

We are fortunate enough to have nationwide healthcare provided by Tony’s remote job. United Healthcare is the plan that allows us to visit doctors anywhere in the nation. Yet, we really don’t go to the doctor that often.

Other options for healthy RVers who don’t see the doctor regularly or have a predetermined condition such as Type 1 Diabetes like Tony are Liberty Healthshare or Christian Healthshare Ministries.  

Aside from health insurance, you’ll also want to have excellent full time RV insurance . The best company that offers comprehensive coverage is Roamly .

10. Are camping memberships worthwhile for a full-time RVer?

It really depends on your travel style. If you find yourselves boondocking, dry camping and staying out West a lot…then RV campground memberships may not be all that beneficial for you. 

However, if you think that at least 50% of the time you want to camp with hook-ups at a campground then yes, some  camping memberships will really help you cut down on your expenses.

Click here to check out Harvest Host membership , a very popular choice of many RVers.

11. How do you manage to keep enough food in your RV for 6 people? 

Well, we don’t always have enough food!

No really, living in a RV full time provides us with a constant struggle to keep enough food. It’s because we’re living in a tiny space with a small fridge. 

Yet, with time and experience, I’ve learned how to play a great game of Tetris in our fridge and freezer and we’ve opened up a few more cupboards to house more of our dried goods.

Meal planning has also been really helpful when trying to determine which ingredients we need. Oh, and we are always working on not wasting any food.

That means that yes, we eat all of our leftovers and prioritize our ripe fruit as a snack over a frozen item. That way, we eat the bananas before they are too brown and save our frozen fruit for later in the week.

I think we have our grocery run down to about every 6 days…which I think is pretty good!

Oh, and we even managed to have a great Thanksgiving dinner in our RV!

Looking for some great RV recipe ideas? Check out our ultimate list of easy RV meals to make your meal planning fun and simple!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of RV travel posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for RV living:

Our Favorite RV Resources:

• Ultimate RV Living eBook
• Harvest Hosts : (save 15% off your first year and stay overnight at one of the many farms, breweries, and wineries across the country)
• Romely Insurance – (sign up for full timer’s RV insurance and save big)
• Rent An RV With Outdoorsy – (the Airbnb of RVs)
• CampScanner – (Snag reservations at sold-out campgrounds!)
• RV Sheets – (Camping World Queen Short sheets made just for RV mattresses)
• Best Sewer Hose – (popular sewer hose for RVs)
• Best RV Vacuum – (small but mighty vacuum)
• Berkey Water Filters – (the travel Berkey is used by so many RV owners to get clean drinking water)

12. How do you go on dates while living in a camper full-time with kids?

Really, it’s all about connecting with another family or two that you get along with and trading off with childcare so that you can get a date night, or morning, in.

You can’t be too picky!

We’ve done this several times and it’s worked out great. One time, we actually just came back to our RV and had a date night in the RV while our kids were watching a movie in our friend’s fifth wheel.

Or, if you have Grandma fly out to you, you can go on a fun and unique date like we did when we went hiking Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park while our kids stayed back with Grandam Sandy! 

13. How do you have ‘private time’ as a couple living the full time RV life?

I swear this is the question SO many people have and are afraid to voice. Now, we’ve had a few people ask it (good for you!) and I want to help you think outside of the box here.

Private time does not have to be at night….it can be while the kids are outside playing or watching a movie.

Also, RV’s rock and shake pretty easily depending on if you have leveling jacks or stabilizers. You don’t feel the rock as much if you think front to back movements with the wheels of the RV. 😉

We have many friends who have an RV washer and dryer combo in their RV that works great for hiding noise and movement. Laundry is often done each night at bedtime. Also, don’t forget to take advantage of a great thunderstorm! 

All in all, we’ve learned to be honest with our kids and have ‘the talk’ with them so they can learn what a healthy marriage involves. I know that might make you feel squeamish….but it’s all part of parenting and something you need to talk with them about it at some point. 

14. So, how does homeschooling work on the road?

Deciding to homeschool your children is a big decision and one that many parents can get caught up in.

We chose to homeschool our kids when our oldest was two years old. So for us, this wasn’t new when we started living full time in an RV. Yet, there were a few things we had to consider.

What is the state homeschool law for our Texas address instead of Minnesota? As Texas residents, it’s super simple and you have the right to educate your child as you see fit. I think it’s the most ‘hands-off’ homeschooling state in the US.

Oh, and we now call it worldschooling .

We also had to consider how many books we could carry around. Early on in our homeschooling, our eldest son fell in love with his  Kindle Paperwhite   and we keep his love for reading filled with adding more books to it weekly.

I think the biggest snag for some parents can be HOW they want to homeschool their children.

What type of mindset do they have and what are their expectations?

So if you’re a parent, take some time to think this one through. Here’s a designated list of homeschool resources that might help you on your journey.

Do you want to ‘school-at-home’ and provide 6 hours of curriculum and grades? Or, do you want to spend some time deschooling and learning about how each of your children learn best?

Then you can provide them with educational-rich activities such as touring the White House in DC, completing a Junior Ranger program while visiting the National Parks, or budgeting for groceries for few weeks and helping with the shopping trips.

Our family has gradually shifted our homeschooling-at-home style to a more Unschooling approach.

We’ve found that our family as a whole does better this way, while our children learn SO much from everything around them. 

They read as much and often as they want, they learn math by baking daily and talking about measuring cups, and they each have fun educational apps on their iPads that they play frequently. 

Our kiddos gain the most with all of the REAL WORLD skills they’re learning such as how to socialize with kids of different ages and how to be flexible when it comes to what our week might look like.

15. Okay, I get the homeschooling thing, but what about socialization?

It’s really all about being intentional. As a traveling family we work hard to meet up with other families on the road so that our kids can have time to play with other kids who live in RVs or travel full-time.

They’ve also learned to be outgoing and join in on a game of playground-tag when we frequent local playgrounds.

Socialization can look so different than what many of us think it should look like. 

I love that our kids don’t expect to only associate with kids their own age. Instead, they make friends of all ages. For example, Riley loves joining in a game of Gaga ball with kids 3 years older than him and Gwen loves playing with toddlers at playgrounds. Our kiddos have had NO problem being social and finding friends to hang with.

16. How do you stay in touch with family and friends?

Not only do our kids keep in touch with friends and family via technology such as FaceTime, but Tony and I do too! I often stay in touch with people we meet on the road through Instagram DM, Facebook Messenger or text messages. 

Our kids each have their own iPad and keep in touch with their cousins back in Minnesota and friends we meet on the road through email, iMessage and Facetime. 

Technology has come a long way and we’re able to feel close to family and friends when being miles and miles apart.

Also, full time camping, or traveling full-time encourages our extended family to travel to where WE are for visits, such as spending their Spring Break in Florida with us this last March! 

17. What do you do about laundry on the road?

In our travels, we’ve found that doing laundry every 7-10 days works best. Tony or I take turns bringing all the clothes to a laundromat and we usually have everything washed, dried, folded and put away in about 3 hours.

Then we don’t talk about laundry again for another week. It’s fabulous!

Some RV families swear that they love having an RV washer/dryer combo in their camper, especially if they are living in a 5th wheel. 

Our friends who LOVE their RV washer/dryer combo usually do one load per day, but it doesn’t seem to bother them. Oh, and they usually need full hook ups for that, so that’s something to keep in mind.

Our family loves the freedom of not being dependent on staying in private campgrounds with full hook-ups. Lately, boondocking is our favorite way to keep the cost of full time RVing down.

18. What type of gas mileage do you get with your Class C Motorhome?

In short….8 MPG every time. Going 55 miles per hour or 70 miles per hour, up a mountain or down, we don’t fluctuate much between 7.5 and 8.5 MPG in our motorhome.

Now, we choose to drive our minivan separately (we don’t tow) so that means we also have to consider our van’s gas mileage, which does fluctuate between 19 MPG and 26 MPG depending on highway vs city driving.

What we spend on gas can really fluctuate depending on how often and far we travel. 

19. Have you found anywhere you might want to settle down someday?

This question is one we get asked quite often, and in all honesty…I struggle to answer it.

You see, living fulltime in an RV has brought our family so much joy and flexibility. We might find that we LOVE a certain area of the country in the summer, but not at all in the winter. And vice versa. 

We might LOVE Florida in the winter, but I don’t think we’d love living there in the summer. 

I also think we just have such a HUGE case of wanderlust that settling down just doesn’t seem right for our family. The kids love traveling and whenever we have the chance to sleep in a friend’s house or even house sit, as we did in Minnesota for my cousin for a week, we all agree that houses make us feel distant and off-key with each other. 

I know, we’re weird. But that’s okay, I’m good with that. 🙂 

Update March 2023: We’ve now been stationary for a few years in Idaho while camping and traveling when we can. During this global impact, we have fallen in love with Idaho, especially  Idaho’s Hot Springs .

20. What do the kids think about RV living?

They love it!

We check in with our kids regularly to see if our lifestyle is still something that works for them. They love being able to park our house-on-wheels next to their besties and play all day/night for a week. 

I also think they really love having both mom and dad with them all the time. Even if one of us is often working (we take turns), we are here for them and don’t miss any of the big milestones in their lives.

RV living with kids has its challenges, but the kids are often much more flexible than the parents!

21. What is something we have in our RV that we couldn’t live without?

There are a few things, but our #1 RV must have would be an RV surge protector . Our runner-up for an RV must-have has to be our espresso maker ! I’m serious, Tony and I are obsessed with good espresso. Oh, and if we’re boondocking then we use this when we don’t want to start the generator.

Okay, after that it would be our Berkey water purifier . It actually purifies all the water we put through it and makes it safe and clean for drinking, no matter the water source. 

Now, we created a  giant list of RV accessories  if you want to dig in, go for it. Or, if you’re looking for our top RV kitchen accessories then  check out this post . 

22. Is it legal to live in an RV full time? 

Yes, you really can live in an RV full time in the USA as long as you have a mailing address, you choose a state to domicile in, and you pay your taxes.

Can you live in an RV legally? – This has been a question we’ve actually been asked by somebody who was pretty skeptical about our full time RV life. 

You DO have to have an address of some sort (see question 2 above), and you DO have to pay your taxes. 

So, pick a state to domicile in, get a mailing address and driver’s license in one state, and you are completely legal!

Related post: How to Drive an RV

23. How long do you think you’ll be on the road full time?

We have no end in sight.

Seriously, we’re hooked on the RV lifestyle and although we are seriously considering taking our full time traveling family international someday, I think we’d keep our RV in storage unit with all our fun RV accessories and come back to the states intermittently to be ‘home’ in our RV. 

Or, maybe we’d get an RV in Australia or Europe.

Update March 2023:  We DID end up putting our RV in storage to travel around the world for 5 months before the big hit of 2020. Here is why we traveled as a family overseas if you want to read more. 

Then we flew back to the USA and found a place in Idaho to settle down in for a while as we waited things out and reassessed travel. You can read what  life was like after living overseas here .  

We are still working as digital nomads and love helping others who are dreaming about full-time travel.

Click here to learn what we would do differently if we were to RV full time again.

Our family has grown a great deal closer during our years of traveling full-time. That, along with all 6 of us craving new adventures regularly, makes us look at the nomad life as being a very long term adventure. 

If you are looking for more information about RV life or how to live in an RV, then check out our post on RV living for beginners or our post on buying an RV for the first time .

Please note that this blog post was originally written during the time when we lived in an RV. However, we want to inform our readers that we have recently transitioned out of RV living. Despite this change, we are committed to providing you with accurate, on-point, and up-to-date information about RV living. Our goal is to share our knowledge and experiences to help you make informed decisions and enhance your RV lifestyle. So, while our personal circumstances may have changed, the quality and relevance of the information we provide remain our top priority.

8 thoughts on “23 Honest Answers About Living In An RV Full Time”

I loved reading this! Thanks so much for sharing. You answered questions that I didn’t even realize that I had! I’ll put in a plug for Christian Healthcare Ministries! We LOVE it for so many reasons, but it’s also awesome for travel. We loved that we could go to Paris in my third trimester of pregnancy and not worry a bit about potential medical bills if something were to happen.

How great is that! Being able to still travel during the third trimester and having a peace of mind!

I’m really loving your blog–just found it today. Thanks for all the great info. We have a 4 year old and are looking into traveling with her more.

I’m so glad you found us. Feel free to reach out with any questions as you start planning your travels. Do you have an interest in RV travel?

So many things I wish I would have thought about before diving into the RV life full time. I don’t think I even knew to ask or think of half of these. Space and privacy are gone when you decide to live in an RV. But, the trade off of nature and travel are worth it. I will say it took me almost 5 years to find the right RV and feel comfortable being in my RV full time. I had to find stability staying put at an RV park for a month or two at a time. I take trips, but wifi is a must for me.

I completely agree, space and privacy are virtually gone when full-time RVing with others. But the trade-offs are totally worth it!

Hi , great information and thank you ! I didn’t even consider the whole pandemic thing until I read your update! I’ll need to look into that a bit further I guess since I am just now considering starting my journey . I hope that living in am rd will still be possible

Hi Jennifer, I think things are getting a bit easier here in the US to be traveling by RV. So if this is a dream/goal of yours, I hope you jump into it!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top Resources for Traveling Full-Time in the U.S.

Our digital nomad life usually leads Jedd and I abroad, but there are plenty of people who are traveling long-term or living nomadically in the US, too. Some folks, like our friends Heath and Alyssa  (who helped us write this post), live and work from an RV full-time. Others combine camping, couchsurfing, and work exchanges to do long-term domestic travel on a budget.

This post came about because we received an e-mail from one of our readers, looking for tips and resources to help sustain her upcoming six month trip around the States. We figured this would be useful info for other travelers as well, so we’ve compiled the top resources we could find for traveling long-term in the USA. If you have something to add, please let us know in the comments at the end!

Updated: Summer 2020. Originally published: Summer 2016.

Table of Contents

Long-Term Budget Travel Resources for the U.S.

From the Blogosphere:

• The Essential Packing List for Your Epic Camping Road Trip
• How Much Does It Cost to Visit All 50 States?
• Why you should use Airbnb rentals when you travel
• Our National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• One Month on the Road: Our Rockies Road Trip Itinerary
• Our Favorite Video Tours of Awesome RVs for Full-Time Tiny Living

Outdoorsy is like Airbnb for RVs. It’s where RV owners rent out their RVs when they’re not using them.

If you’ve always wanted to try out a motorhome, or want to upgrade your long-term USA road trip with a cute Airstream, consider renting through Outdoorsy. Their customer service and reviews have outranked the other top RV rental companies. You can search listings by vehicle type and location. Some owners will even deliver the motorhome to your door! *Take $50 off your Outdoorsy rental with coupon code: intentional

Browse and book RVs, motorhomes, trailers, and campervans on Outdoorsy here

What to do about Health Insurance when traveling long-term

Healthcare.gov

Just like non-mobile Americans, one option if your income is not too high, is to use healthcare.gov to qualify for a discount on monthly healthcare premiums. When you select your healthcare plan, though, make sure you’ll be covered on the road and you understand the “out of area” coverage requirements. Not all plans will cover you when you’re out of state.

Telemedecine Savings Plan

A  telemedecine savings plan  gives you 24/7 access to physician and nurse consultations remotely as well as discounts on medications. Discounts on dental and hearing care can also be included in some plans. While this option does not replace your healthcare, it can be affordable way to get medical attention out of state. Plans start at $10 per month.

Healthshares

One alternative option for healthcare is a sharing ministry. Members of these groups pay in on a monthly basis and agree to assist other members with medical bills that arise. Monthly payments and deductibles are usually significantly lower than traditional healthcare, however, these programs come with other membership requirements. For more details check out Samaritan Ministries  or Liberty HealthShare .

What is the best cell phone and data plan for USA travelers?

Even in the U.S., reliable and quick phone and data coverage is not always possible. If you plan to work online while traveling the States, free wifi hotspots may not cut it.

Our friend, Alyssa, says: “The only way to go for Internet on the road is Verizon. They by far have the best coverage and the best plans. Many full-timers use Verizon Unlimited data plans through a third party. The best place to start looking for internet solutions is with Chris & Cherie over at RV Mobile Internet .”

Check the Coverage? app to research whether your cell provider has coverage in your next stop, or to compare coverage areas of the major providers.

To track down free and paid public wifi anywhere in the world, try a  Wifi Finder app . It can be used online or offline.

How to find free and cheap campsites in the U.S.

Federal Lands

In BLM (Bureau of Land Management) and U.S. Forest Service areas, you can camp for free within a certain distance of the roadside for up to 14 days. In RV communities, this practice is called dispersed camping or boondocking. Be prepared to rough it and practice “leave no trace behind.”

You can try the Public Lands app to find potential locations and the corresponding regulations for each area.

FreeCampsites.net

While not comprehensive, this site is a crowd-sourced map of free campsites around the nation.

Camp In My Garden

Here’s another option which doesn’t have a huge selection in the States, but can help you find cheap places to stay in peoples’ backyards . Facilities and pricing varies by homeowner.

Ultimate Campgrounds

This site provides an interactive map of public campgrounds in the U.S., though they’re not all free. They also have an app if you want the info on your smartphone.

The Campendium site  lets you search for specific campground types and includes free sites, National Parks, National Forests, State Parks, and RV parks.

Harvest Hosts

Another way to camp for (almost) free is with  Harvest Hosts . HH partners with farms, distilleries, wineries, and breweries across the country that have extra land or space for campers. Participating places allow you to camp on their property for free–usually for only one night–in exchange for your business. So typically you have a free place to stay for the cost of a bottle or two of wine. This is a great option if you want to get to know the locals in every place you visit. A HH membership costs less than $50 a year.

Parking Lots

If you just need a quick, free place in town to sleep overnight in your vehicle, then pull over in a Walmart, Cabela’s, truck stop, or rest stops. Full-timer RVers recommend calling the store manager or local police to check that overnight camping is allowed.

Passport America

If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at campsites around the country, Passport America offers 50% camping fees at participating campgrounds. The yearly fee for the membership is $44, but if you camp at just two of their locations, you’ll make your money back.

Alyssa says, “Hands down, this has been our best investment for saving money on camping.” (Disclosure: the Passport America link above is an affiliate link.)

What is full-time RVing?

Full-time RVing, or being a “fulltimer,” simply means you sleep all of your nights in an RV. It’s your house, your only home.

How do you get your mail when you’re a nomad?

When you live full time in an RV, most people use a mail forwarding service.

There are three states that are awesome about this: South Dakota, Florida, and Texas. Before you start RVing, you’ll want a permanent address in one of these places. This usually means setting up a “domicile,” a.k.a. becoming a resident of another state so you can use their RVing benefits. All of these states have great options for mail forwarding programs.

If you’re thinking about becoming a fulltimer, you can read this Technomadia article to learn more about this fascinating concept of getting your mail on the road .

Back to full-time RVing.

Now that you know you can get your mail across the country, here’s a little more about what full-time RVing looks like.

When you’re a fulltimer, you can:

• Live anywhere you want (for Heath and Alyssa, this has included beachfront of the Pacific Ocean, riverfront, lakefront, mountainside, on a volcano, on farms, in national forests, even New York City!)
• Work from anywhere
• Not be tied down to mortgages, bills, and the monotony of staying one place
• Meet new people
• Spend more time in nature
• Save a ton of money
• Basically do anything you want all the time

“All this could be summed up very succinctly: Full-timing is the BEST,” says Alyssa.

Who full-time RVs?

Alyssa and Heath have met adults as young as 21 and as old as their 70s traveling full-time across the country. They’ve seen families with infants and teenagers and more kids than you could ever imagine, living in an RV with all their stuff piled into a trailer, traveling together.

Why Should I Full-Time RV?

One word: freedom.

In the past few decades, the world has changed in a million different ways. But the most overwhelming way is this: we have choices that society has never had before.

Your grocery store doesn’t offer great avocados? There’s probably five others equidistant from your house. You don’t like Shell gas stations? You have a hundred other options. Nothing good on TV? Don’t worry, there’s only millions of tv shows and movies you can watch on cable or satellite or the Internet. You don’t want to work from an office? You can work from home or a co-working space or Starbucks or a bar with wifi or an RV on the coast (Alyssa’s done all of these). We have more options every day than we know what to do with. Living in an RV and traveling full time is just one of them.

And yet, everyone is living in a home with four walls and indoor plumbing. Across the board, most people live in what RVers call a “sticks and bricks” home. Which is great if you’re worried about tornadoes or if you want a stable, predictable future. But it’s not great if you want to get out and see the world and learn and grow and be a better person (all of which are side effects of full time travel).

I know what you’re probably thinking now:

What about work? How would I finance full time travel?

Money is the biggest hurdle people face when it comes to leaping into the full time travel lifestyle. 

Surprisingly, for Heath and Alyssa, full timing opened a lot of doors for their business. Since moving into an RV, they’ve visited all 50 states, filmed a documentary, been on live national and international television, filmed a tv show, written books, published a course, and filmed a bunch of gigs across the country.

How to Make Money on the Road

Heath Padgett’s Resources

Our friend Heath is leading the way when it comes to full-time RVing as a young adult. His Make Money and RV  Facebook group and RV Entrepreneur Podcast  are excellent resources, even if you aren’t living out of an RV.

Digital Nomads

Just about anyone who makes their living online in a location independent way can travel the U.S. long-term. Check out this blog post to learn more about Digital Nomad living .

Help Exchange, WWOOF, Work Away

These three network sites hook you up with hosts around the world – and in the States – who will provide you room and board in exchange for various kinds of labor. Organic farming, nannying, hospitality, or web services are just a few of the ways you can get your foot in the door and save a lot of money. Here’s one example where we did Help Exchange at a chateau B&B in France.

Work and Travel Jobs

We wrote a post all about finding jobs in amazing places . Many are international, but plenty of the resources can be used in the U.S. as well!

Other Tools for Travel in the U.S.

The State Lines app  will let you know about the variations in state laws and regulations so you’re not surprised every time you cross a state border.

Do you have tools to add? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Similar Posts

Fun Global Dance Work Out Videos: Travel + Exercise!

Online work out videos have long been a part of our fitness routine, whether we’re working out while traveling or from home. Once the pandemic hit and travel stopped, we expanded our exercise routine with at home workout videos that also brought a fun, international experience back into our lives. These videos are a win-win-win…

A Visitor’s Guide to Hiking on Oahu – Hawaii

To truly enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty, we recommend hitting the trails. Oahu has many beautiful hikes to explore around the island. Here is our guide to the best hikes on Oahu for visitors, plus some hiking tips to help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.  * Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here…

What to Do On A Day Trip to Otavalo, Ecuador

Otavalo makes a great day trip or weekend get-away from Quito. In this post, we’ll share what you should know before you visit and what to do in Otavalo on a day trip. Visiting Otavalo Ecuador The Otavalo area is known for its indigenous artisans and woodworkers, so most visitors go to shop for crafts….

Airalo vs. Nomad: Southeast Asia eSIM Review Comparison

For over 10 years of international travel, we were using regular SIM cards to stay connected while abroad. For each new country, we would have to figure out how to get a SIM card. We had to figure out the best phone companies in the country and how their plans worked. We’d have to physically…

Where to Stay in Willamette Valley Oregon Wine Country

Oregon’s Willamette Valley is home to over 600 world-class wineries and is quickly growing in popularity as a wine tourist destination, offering its own charming alternative to crowded and more expensive wine regions. Named after the Willamette River flowing through the region, Willamette Valley also has much more to offer beyond wine. Trendy gourmet restaurants,…

One Week Oahu Itinerary & Activities List

Since Jedd grew up in Honolulu and has a lot of family on the islands, we visit Oahu at least once a year. 11+ years ago, we planned a five day Oahu vacation for our best friends leading up to our wedding. And we have enjoyed sharing Honolulu travel tips and making recommendations for the…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Travels with Ted

RV Living Full Time: 100+ Tips to Make it Work

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

My husband and I have lived in our fifth wheel RV since 2016. In our years traveling the country, we have learned endless lessons about how to make the RV lifestyle more affordable and less stressful.

In this complete guide to RV living full time, I am sharing 100 important tips for living on the open road.

• 1.1 Bigger Isn’t Always Better
• 1.2 Attend an RV Show
• 1.3 Get an Inspection
• 1.4 Buy the RV before the Tow Vehicle
• 1.5 Stay on Budget
• 1.6 Included Desired Upgrades in your Budget
• 1.7 Compare Prices Online
• 1.8 Remember that RVs Depreciate Quickly
• 1.9 Where You Buy Your RV Matters
• 1.10 Video Tape the Walkthrough
• 2.1 Book a Local Stay for at Least 1 Month
• 2.2 Some Planning is Required
• 2.3 Book Winter Reservations Early
• 2.4 Leave Some Room for Spontaneity
• 2.5 Check Cancellation Policies before Booking
• 2.6 Look at Real Campers’ Photos
• 2.7 Prioritize Practical Amenities
• 2.8 Utilize RV Camping Memberships
• 2.9 Boondocking is Great, Sometimes
• 2.10 Don’t Forget to Apply for a Passport
• 3.1 You Need a Checklist
• 3.2 But Things will Break Anyway
• 3.3 Take it Slow
• 3.4 Pay Attention to Weather Forecasts
• 3.5 Check the RV’s Tire Pressure
• 3.6 Always Keep the Tank Half Full
• 3.7 Plan Fuel Stops
• 3.8 Make your Own Food
• 3.9 Don’t Trust Google Maps
• 3.10 Always Have Some Cash
• 3.11 Travel with an Emergency Kit
• 3.12 Take Advantage of Travel Time
• 4.1 RV Life Isn’t Cheap
• 4.2 Budgets Should be Planned Annually
• 4.3 Traveling Slower Equals Traveling Cheaper
• 4.4 Monthly Rates Can Save You Money
• 4.5 Eating In is Tough, but Key to Saving
• 4.6 Consider the True Value of a Storage Unit
• 4.7 Have a Reasonable Repair Fund
• 4.8 Pause Before Purchasing
• 4.9 Free Adventures can be the Most Memorable
• 4.10 Workamping is a Great Way to Save
• 5.1 Weigh Entrepreneurship vs Telecommuting
• 5.2 Also Weigh Time vs Money
• 5.3 A Flexible Schedule is Ideal
• 5.4 One Internet Option Isn’t Enough
• 5.5 Noise Cancelling Headphones are a Must
• 5.6 A Desk is a Non-Negotiable
• 5.7 Try to Face a Window
• 5.8 But, Know Sometimes your View Will Be Another RV
• 5.9 Working Outside Doesn’t Always Work
• 5.10 Make Sure your Spouse’s Job is Compatible with Yours
• 6.1 Domicile is Complicated
• 6.2 Full Time RVers Still Have to Serve on Juries
• 6.3 Snail Mail Isn’t Dead
• 6.4 You Must Have Full Time RV Insurance
• 6.5 Plan an Annual “Home” Visit
• 6.6 Affordable Health Insurance is Difficult to Find
• 6.7 Always Locate Emergency Services
• 6.8 Downsizing is a Constant Process
• 6.9 Being Organized is Important
• 7.1 Black Tank Maintenance is Simple, but Important
• 7.2 RV Repairs Can Take Months
• 7.3 A Warranty May Be Useless
• 7.4 Full Timers Need a Back-Up Accommodation Plan
• 7.5 DIY RV Maintenance is Key for Full Timers
• 7.6 Track Mileage after Every Trip
• 7.7 When Troubleshooting, Keep it Simple
• 7.8 Call your Manufacturer for Advice
• 7.9 Or Call Lippert
• 7.10 Utilize your Brand’s RV Forum
• 7.11 Always Take Photos before Starting a Repair
• 8.1 Consider Pets when Buying your RV
• 8.2 Keep in Contact with your Home Vet
• 8.3 Ask Vets to Print Records
• 8.4 Use BringFido to Find Local Dog Friendly Establishments
• 8.5 Keep a Stash of your Pets’ Regular Food
• 8.6 Grooming Appointments Need to Be Planned
• 8.7 Pets Can’t Always Be Left Home Alone
• 8.8 Never Let your Pet Roam Free at the Campground
• 9.1 RV Holding Tank Essentials
• 9.2 Surge Protector
• 9.3 Water Pressure Regulator
• 9.4 Tire Gauge and Air Compressor
• 9.5 Leveling Blocks
• 9.6 Power Adaptors
• 9.7 A Basic RV Tool Kit
• 9.8 Alternate Power Sources
• 9.9 RV Safety Devices
• 9.10 An RV Log Book
• 10.1 Find Out if You Like RVing before Moving Into One
• 10.2 Think Hard before Renovating
• 10.3 Leave No Trace
• 10.4 Magnets are the Best Souvenirs
• 10.5 National Park Stamps are Also a Great Souvenir
• 10.6 Sweeping is a Daily Chore
• 10.7 Wheels Can Save You and Your Home
• 10.8 The Journey is More Important than Checking Off a List
• 10.9 Full Time RVers Don’t Need to Give up Their Hobbies
• 10.10 RV Life Isn’t a Vacation

Buying an RV for RV Living Full Time

The first step of RV life is buying your new home on wheels. Here are 10 lessons we learned about buying a motorhome or trailer for RV living full time, both from our own purchase experience and the hundreds of other full timers we’ve met on the road.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

When purchasing an RV for full time living, many families prioritize space. However, bigger is not always better when it comes to RVs. Longer RVs are more difficult to drive, use more fuel and limit where you can stay.

When we initially purchased our 34 foot fifth wheel, we were worried that we would not have enough storage space. After years of living on the road, we know an RV between 25 and 30 feet would have been ideal for us.

Attend an RV Show

With all the RV options available, narrowing down the type and layout you want can be overwhelming. Attending an RV show allows you to tour hundreds of RV in a day or two.

Get an Inspection

When purchasing a used RV, schedule a professional inspection before committing to the purchase. We have heard so many horror stories of people buying an RV only to find out that it had thousands of dollars in water damage or other costly issues.

A professional inspection is also a good idea when purchasing a new RV. Just because the RV is new, doesn’t mean it is perfect. An inspection will allow you to identify issues, and request repairs before the sale is final.

Buy the RV before the Tow Vehicle

We found a great deal on a dually truck and purchased our tow vehicle a few months before purchasing the RV. However, it is ideal to purchase a travel trailer or fifth wheel first. That way, you know the required towing capacity of your truck.

Stay on Budget

As I detail in a subsequent section of this article, full time RV living is not necessarily an affordable lifestyle. Start your RV life out on the right foot by sticking to your budget.

Our RV life budget calculator can help you estimate the cost of your future RV life, so you can set a reasonable budget for your RV.

Included Desired Upgrades in your Budget

When determining the budget for your RV, don’t forget to account for any upgrades you plan to make. Most RVs will require some upgrades to make them safe and comfortable for full time RV living.

Review our list of 40 essential RV upgrades for ideas on what additions your home on wheels might require.

Compare Prices Online

In today’s world, it is easy to find out if an RV is priced fairly. Whether you are purchasing a new or used RV, browse online marketplaces, such as RV Trader , to see the going rate for the model you are considering.

Remember that RVs Depreciate Quickly

While most homes are considered an investment, it is important to remember that your home on wheels will depreciate. When setting your budget, remember that when it comes time to sell your RV, it will most likely be worth significantly less than you paid.

We purchased a new fifth wheel in 2016 for just under $50,000. Today it is only worth around $30,000. Depreciation will depend on your brand and market conditions, but you can use our RV depreciation calculator to estimate the future value of your RV.

Where You Buy Your RV Matters

When purchasing an RV for full time living, where you purchase your RV can be just as important as which RV you purchase. If you plan to return to the dealership for repairs and warranty work, then you need to trust the dealer.

Repair work can also take time, so it is ideal to work with a service shop that is located near friends or relatives who will let you stay with them while your RV is in the shop.

Video Tape the Walkthrough

When we purchased our fifth wheel, we had never camped in an RV. I paid close attention to the walkthrough and took notes, but I still had so many questions once we were parked at our campsite.

Instead of trying to remember every detail, ask you dealer for permission to video tape your walkthrough, so you can always go back and reference it.

Selecting Campgrounds and RV Parks

Once you have your RV, it is time to start planning your journey. Here are 10 helpful tips for selecting campgrounds and RV parks.

Book a Local Stay for at Least 1 Month

After you purchase your RV, you will be excited to hit the road and start your new life of adventure. However, we strongly recommend staying in the local area for at least one month after purchasing your home on wheels.

Staying locally for a few weeks helped us adjust to living in an RV, get organized and learn the ins and outs of our new rig before dealing with the stress and excitement of travel.

Being close to the dealership where you purchased your RV also gives you the opportunity to get any initial issues repaired before hitting the road.

Some Planning is Required

When we first moved into an RV, we pictured ourselves living spontaneously and moving whenever and wherever we felt like it. However, after trying to make last minute reservations at popular campgrounds, we quickly learned some planning is required.

Many destinations, such as National Parks, book up months in advance. We now try to create a tentative plan a year in advance, so we can always get a reservation at popular locations.

Book Winter Reservations Early

Winter reservations, especially, cannot be left until the last minute. The majority of full-time RVers and RV snowbirds, spend their winters in Florida, Texas or Arizona. Therefore, campgrounds in these states often fill up the day reservations open.

If you want to spend your winter enjoying warm weather, you’ll need to plan in advance.

Leave Some Room for Spontaneity

While planning is a necessity for full-time RVers, it is also important to leave room for spontaneity. There is nothing worse that hearing about an awesome hike or campground along your route, but not having enough time to stop and check it out.

After multiple incidents of wishing we had more time to explore, we have started leaving extra, unplanned days between destinations. With this wiggle room built into our schedule, we can extend a stay or stop somewhere cool along our route without messing up all of our plans.

Check Cancellation Policies before Booking

Another way we balance planning and impulsiveness is carefully reading cancellation policies. When booking a campground months in advance, we try to book sites that are fully refundable. That way we can change our plans without losing money.

Look at Real Campers’ Photos

Many RV parks, especially those that are part of large chains, have professional photographers take pictures for their website. To avoid disappointment, always check out photos from other campers on Google or campground review sites, like RV Life , before booking.

Prioritize Practical Amenities

Full-time RVers also need to prioritize practical amenities when booking campsites, especially for extended stays. For example, we love camping in state parks, but we typically stay for a week or less because these campgrounds usually don’t have laundry or full hookups.

Utilize RV Camping Memberships

One way we find campsites and save money is through our campground memberships, such as Thousand Trails and Harvest Hosts. Every full time RV family should have at least one RV membership.

Our complete guide to RV membership programs breaks down all the options available.

Boondocking is Great, Sometimes

If you are looking for free campsites with beautiful views, you should consider boondocking or dry camping on public lands. Boondocking often means staying at more spacious campsites, closer to nature.

However, boondocking also means conserving water and power, worrying about cell service and moving the RV when the tanks need to be emptied. While some full time RVers boondock regularly, we prefer to stay at full service RV parks the majority of the time.

When we find an awesome boondocking spot, we plan to take a few days off work and enjoy nature.

Don’t Forget to Apply for a Passport

Some of our most memorable RV road trips have been outside of the United States. We spent an amazing summer in the Canadian Rockies and a fun winter on the beaches of Baja, Mexico .

Make sure everyone in your family has current passports before you start RV living full time.

Travel Days with the RV

Travel days can be one of the most daunting parts of RV living full time. Follow these tips to ensure you stay safe and happy on the road.

You Need a Checklist

Even if you are an experienced camper, you need a checklist for RV travel days. After we got the hang of setting up and breaking down our campsite, we stopped using a checklist. Then, inevitably, we forget to lock cabinets and stuff got broken.

Having a checklist helps to ensure everything inside and outside the RV is properly secured. Download and print our free RV departure and setup checklists before hitting the road.

But Things will Break Anyway

While we highly recommend using a checklist, we also recommend always being prepared for a small travel day disaster. Driving down bumpy highways can be the equivalent of your home going through an earthquake.

Despite having everything secured properly, we have had light fixtures fall and break and cabinets fly open. Being able to handle a mess is a necessary skill for RV living full time.

Take it Slow

Some of the best advice we’ve ever received about RV living is to take it slow. Click here to see the worst RV advice we’ve heard .

By take it slow, I mean that RVers should literally drive slow. There are many reasons to drive slow. First, many RV tires are only rated for speeds up to 65 miles per hour. Driving slow also conserves fuel and helps prevent accidents.

I also highly recommend taking your time between destinations. Shorter travel days are less stressful and allow for a more enjoyable journey.

Pay Attention to Weather Forecasts

Many of the worst RV accidents we have seen or read about were due in part to weather conditions, such as high winds or heavy rains. Always check the forecast before a travel day and stay off the road if the conditions are not ideal.

Check the RV’s Tire Pressure

Always check tire pressure before hitting the road in your RV. The recommended tire pressure is noted on the sidewall of your tires. Traveling with  an air compressor  is ideal, so tire pressure can be adjusted before driving.

For even more peace of mind, install a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that constantly tracks tire pressure and temperature.

Always Keep the Tank Half Full

There is nothing more frustrating or embarrassing than running out of fuel on your road trip. While hitting empty may seem unlikely, it definitely happens to many RVs traveling in remote areas where fuel stations are few and far between.

To avoid ever running out of gas, we never allow our tow truck to get below half-way full.

Plan Fuel Stops

We highly recommending planning your fuel stops, both to prevent running out of gas (or diesel) and to save money. Use RV travel apps to check gas prices and find RV friendly fuel stations along your route.

Make your Own Food

Another way to simplify travel days is to make your own food. Having food already packed means you can stop at any fuel station, instead of needing to find parking at restaurants.

Preparing your own travel day meals and snacks also helps full time RVers stay healthy on the road . Most easily accessible restaurants are unhealthy fast food options, and those get old quickly when you travel frequently.

Don’t Trust Google Maps

To select the best route for RV travel, use a road carrier’s atlas to identify routes appropriate for larger vehicles. Do not rely solely on navigation apps, like Google Maps, which may take you down narrow or winding roads or suggest you take multiple U-turns with your RV.

However, we do leave the Google Maps app open on travel days to alert us to delays, such as traffic jams or crashes.

Always Have Some Cash

Another important lesson we have learned while RV living full time is that we always need to have some cash on hand during travel. We have been through cash-only toll booths and stopped at remote gas stations where the credit card machine was down.

Travel with an Emergency Kit

Even the most well prepared full time RVers will likely experience some sort of roadside emergency, like a blown tire. We actually had three blown tires before we upgraded our wheels.

To make these situations easier, purchase a roadside emergency kit. STDY’s roadside emergency kit  includes a first aid kit, tow rope, reflective warning triangles, work gloves and more.

Take Advantage of Travel Time

When we first hit the road, travel days were my least favorite days. I would spend my time in the truck counting the minutes until we arrived at our next destination. However, after several years on the road, I have changed my attitude.

Travel days are a great opportunity to enjoy time with your spouse or family and to learn new things. I now look forward to our time in the truck, when we listen to podcasts or audio books, talk to each other and plan future adventures.

The (Literal) Cost of RV Living Full Time

One of the most frequently asked questions we get about RV living full time is “How much does it cost?”. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, we can share plenty of tips to help you develop your own full time RV living budget.

RV Life Isn’t Cheap

One of the first lessons we learned about RV living is that it isn’t (necessarily) cheap. While we no longer had a house payment, we had many new expenses. Rent for RV parks and fuel for our tow truck cost way more than we had originally expected.

We also spent more on eating out and entertainment, since there were always new places and experiences to enjoy. Over the years, we have reined in our budget by following the rest of the tips in this section.

Budgets Should be Planned Annually

While many families stick to a monthly budget, full time RVers should set a budget annually as monthly expenses can vary widely.

For example, some months we pay $500 for a monthly campsite and have low fuel expenses as we don’t travel far. Other months, we travel frequently and spend over $1500 on fuel.

Setting an annual budget at the beginning of the year allows us to splurge some months without ever spending beyond our means.

Traveling Slower Equals Traveling Cheaper

We have also learned that slower travel is easier on our wallets. Traveling shorter distances means we spend less on fuel. Staying in one place longer also allows us to truly enjoy each place we visit.

Monthly Rates Can Save You Money

Looking for campgrounds with monthly rates is one of the best ways to save on RV expenses. We can save hundreds of dollars each month on rent by booking long-term stays instead of paying nightly rates.

Eating In is Tough, but Key to Saving

As I noted earlier, we love visiting new restaurants in each location we visit. However, eating out frequently is an easy way to blow your budget.

We do our research and pick a few must-visit dining options in each area, but we cook 90% of our meals in the RV.

Consider the True Value of a Storage Unit

Storage units can be another major expense for full time RV families. When we moved into our RV, there were a few items we couldn’t bring on the road but weren’t ready to give away.  So, we ended up renting a small storage unit.

After years on the road, we have not pulled a single item out of storage, and we regret getting the storage unit every month when the $100 bill has to be paid.

If you plan to live on the road for a set period of time, it may be financially sensible to store furniture and other items. However, if you plan for your full time RV living journey to last for years, seriously consider whether the storage unit bill is worth holding onto more stuff.

Have a Reasonable Repair Fund

Before hitting the road, every full time RV family should have an RV maintenance and repair fund. The amount needed in your repair fund will depend on the age of your RV and whether or not you have an extended warranty .

We personally budget $250 per month ($3000 per year) for regular service and unexpected repairs. When not used, our monthly repair budget is put into a savings account.

Since our new RV did not require many repairs in the first few years, we had enough money saved to cover the costs of major repairs, including a new roof.

Pause Before Purchasing

Downsizing your possessions is one of the first steps in the process of RV living full time. However, it can be easy to accumulate more stuff as you travel. Even after years of living on the road, we still purchase unnecessary items that end up being donated in our next purge.

To avoid purchasing things we really don’t need, we try to follow the pause before purchasing rule. If we see a new RV gadget that looks cool, we don’t purchase it right away. Instead we wait a week or two, then decide if the purchase is really sensible.

Free Adventures can be the Most Memorable

One great way to save money while traveling is to prioritize free adventures. Many of our most memorable experiences are hikes that cost us $0. We also look for free events, such as live music and local fairs.

Workamping is a Great Way to Save

Another great way to save is to find a workamping job . While workamping is a primary income source for some full time RVers, others, like us, use workamping jobs as a side hustle.

Since our work schedule for the blog is flexible, Justin sometimes also takes a workamping gig where he earns extra money and we get free campground rent and other perks.

Working from the Road

Unless you start RV living full time after retirement, you will need to find a way to earn money on the road. If you need travel-friendly job ideas, see our list of the 7 best careers for RV living.

Weigh Entrepreneurship vs Telecommuting

One of the first decisions to make when selecting a career for RV living full time is whether or not to start your own business. Being an entrepreneur with a flexible schedule sounds ideal for RV living, but it isn’t that simple.

Starting your own business can be stressful, especially when you are making another major life change by moving into an RV. Before quitting your 9 to 5, really consider if being a entrepreneur makes sense for you and your family.

During our first three years on the road, I telecommuted to a demanding corporate job. I worked 50+ hours a week and could only explore on weekends.

After starting this blog as a side hustle (and working even more hours each week for a year), I was able to quit my job and make more time for adventure. Running my own business is amazing, but it took a lot of time and effort to make it work.

Also Weigh Time vs Money

When considering how you will earn money on the road, it is also important to weigh time vs money. With remote work becoming more acceptable, RVers have more job opportunities. However, the highest paying job may not always be the best for full time RV living.

If you moved into an RV because you wanted to spend more time living life, then really consider the work-life balance when accepting a new position.

A Flexible Schedule is Ideal

Any job with a flexible schedule is ideal for full time RVers. Setting your own work hours allows you to go out and explore when the weather corporates.

For RVers who are stuck in a 9 to 5, using time zones to your advantage can help create more time for exploration. For example, if you work on eastern time, you can travel to the west coast, wake up early for work and have hours of daylight left when you log off.

One Internet Option Isn’t Enough

If your job is online, one internet option will not be sufficient. While it is possible to get internet almost anywhere these days, each connection option has limitations.

To make sure they are always connected, many full times have both a mobile hotspot plan and a Starlink dish. We personally have 2 mobile hotspots from different providers. See our complete guide to internet options for RV living for more details.

Noise Cancelling Headphones are a Must

If your job involves virtual meetings, you need a great pair of noise cancelling headphones. Without them, kids playing in the campground, neighbors’ dogs barking and the pounding of rain on the RV roof can all ruin an important meeting.

Even if your job doesn’t involve many meetings, noise cancelling headphones can help block out campground noise and keep you focused.

A Desk is a Non-Negotiable

Our RV did not come with a desk, and I spent my days working from our RV’s recliner for several years. My back, hips and posture all suffered terribly. If you work from a computer, either buy an RV with a desk or include a desk in your RV renovation.

Try to Face a Window

When shopping for RVs or planning your renovation, try to select a floorplan that allows you to place your desk by a window. Being able to look out at the views makes working from the RV a much more pleasurable experience.

But, Know Sometimes your View Will Be Another RV

While I enjoy my window views on most workdays, sometimes the scenery isn’t ideal. Be realistic when dreaming about RV living full time, and understand that some days your view will be stunning and other days you will be looking at your neighbor’s RV.

Working Outside Doesn’t Always Work

Before moving into the RV, I thought my new life would include many days spent working outside. However, I quickly learned that working outside isn’t all it is cracked up to be.

The glare from the sun can make it impossible to see your laptop screen, and winds often prevent me from putting the awning out to create shade. On perfect, temperate cloudy days I enjoy an outdoor workday, but most of the time my desk inside is a better option.

Make Sure your Spouse’s Job is Compatible with Yours

If you and your spouse both plan to work from your RV, you need to ensure that your jobs are compatible for tiny living. If you both plan to telecommute, you need a plan for what you will do when you both have meetings at the same time.

RV Living Logistics

RV living full time involves a lot of admin! Read our lessons learned about RV living logistics to make your first year on the road easier.

Domicile is Complicated

RV domicile refers to the place full time RVers legally define as their home, when they do not have an actual house or property that serves as their permanent and principal home.

Many new full time RVers, plan to move their domicile to a state with low taxes, but establishing domicile in a new state can be complicated. Read our complete guide to RV domicile before making a decision on where to establish residency.

Full Time RVers Still Have to Serve on Juries

Since moving into our RV, we have both been summoned for jury duty multiple times. Even though we don’t really live anywhere, we still have civic responsibilities in our domicile location.

When we are across the country on the date of our summons, we request a deferral as we are on an “extended road trip.” However, if we are within a day’s drive of the court location, we try to modify our plans so we can serve on the jury.

Snail Mail Isn’t Dead

When we moved into our RV, I made sure all of our accounts were set to paperless so we would receive digital bills. However, I quickly learned that many documents, including insurance paperwork and vehicle registrations have to be sent through snail mail.

Before starting RV living full time, you need to find a long-term mail solution . RV mail options include a trusted family member or an RV mail forwarding service.

You Must Have Full Time RV Insurance

Buying RV insurance is not as simple when you plan to live in your RV. When shopping for policies you must disclose that you will live in your RV, and find a policy that covers RV living full time.

We’ve heard horror stories of full timers who purchased standard RV insurance and were denied coverage when the company learned they were living in the vehicle.

Plan an Annual “Home” Visit

Like all people, full time RVers, still need to have regular check-ups, renew their drivers’ licenses and perform other mundane tasks.

To avoid having to find new providers all over the country, we recommend scheduling an annual “home” visit, where you return to your domicile location and complete all your annual appointments

Affordable Health Insurance is Difficult to Find

If you choose to workamp or start your own business to fund your RV lifestyle, finding affordable and reliable health insurance can be a major challenge. See our complete guide to health insurance options for full time RV living to find the best solution for your situation.

Always Locate Emergency Services

Since we are RV living full time, it is not uncommon for me to have to think about what town or state I am currently in, and I usually don’t know my way around without a GPS.

But, you never want to have to think about where to go in the middle of an emergency. The day you arrive in a new location, always look up the nearest emergency room and emergency vet and save the location in your phone or GPS.

Downsizing is a Constant Process

Downsizing is not just something you do before moving into an RV. It is a constant process. As you spend more time on the road, you will learn more about what you really do and don’t need. Be prepared to constantly analyze what stays, what goes and if you really need to buy something new.

Being Organized is Important

Before RV living full time, I was a mess (literally). My office desk was always covered in papers, and my closet was a disaster. However, living tiny makes organization a necessity.

Everything in your RV should have a place and you should clean regularly to prevent any clutter from getting out of hand.

RV Maintenance and Repair Realities

Like any home, an RV requires regular maintenance and repairs. Follow these tips to ensure you RV stays in tip top shape.

Black Tank Maintenance is Simple, but Important

One RVing task most new campers dread is emptying the black tank. The reality? It’s not that bad and you will get use to it within a few months of moving into your RV.

While emptying the black tank is easy, it is super important to do it the right way. Rookie mistakes can lead to big problems down the road. Follow our step by step guide to emptying your tanks and you shouldn’t have any problems.

RV Repairs Can Take Months

One RV life reality we were not prepared for was the amount of time RV repairs can take. When our RV needed a new roof, we called almost a hundred shops and the shortest timeline was 2 months!

A Warranty May Be Useless

Another expensive lesson we learned is that an RV warranty may be useless for RV living full-time. We purchased a new RV, specifically because we wanted a warranty. However, warranty approval often added even more time to the repair process.

The expenses involved in changing plans and finding other accommodations usually made it more affordable to pay cash for repairs instead of waiting for warranty approval. By the time our first RV needed major repairs, our warranty had already ended.

For our next RV purchase, we purchased an extended warranty that covers service calls and has a super quick pre-authorization process.

RV warranties can be worthwhile, but it is important to understand the terms and required approval process to determine the real value. Read our guide to what RV extended warranties cover to learn how to pick the right policy.

Full Timers Need a Back-Up Accommodation Plan

If you live in an RV long enough, eventually a major repair will be required. Therefore, all full time RV families need a back-up accommodation plan. When our RV has to be in the shop for an extended period of time, we are lucky enough to have family we can stay with.

If you don’t feel comfortable staying with friends or family for an extended period, make sure your repair savings fund has enough money to cover the cost of a hotel or AirBnb.

For a cheaper option, we’ve used repairs with shorter timelines as an opportunity to take a tent camping trip.

DIY RV Maintenance is Key for Full Timers

Given the long wait times at most RV repair shops, RV maintenance is an essential skill for full time RVers. While learning how to properly maintain your RV may sound daunting, I promise you it is doable.

When we moved into our RV, we knew NOTHING about RV maintenance. Now, we are experts. Purchase our eBook, The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance , to learn how to take care of your RV.

Track Mileage after Every Trip

One key aspect of RV maintenance is knowing how many miles you put on your RV. If you drive a motorhome, you can simply use the odometer. However, full timers with travel trailers and fifth wheels need to log their mileage after every trip.

When Troubleshooting, Keep it Simple

The most important lesson, we have learned about RV repairs is to stay calm and start with the simplest solutions. For example, if your furnace stops working, double-check that the propane tank isn’t empty before moving on to more complicated solutions.

90% of RV issues are easily fixed. When troubleshooting, always start with the easiest solutions.

Call your Manufacturer for Advice

Another RV troubleshooting tip is to call your manufacturer for advice. If your issue is common, they may be able to help you pinpoint the problem quickly.

Or Call Lippert

Lippert, a company that makes tons of RV parts (stairs, jacks, leveling systems, awnings, axles and more), is also a super helpful troubleshooting resource. If you are having issues with a Lippert part, simply call their customer service line.

I have called Lippert multiple times for jack issues and their knowledgeable support staff walked me through the fix step-by-step.

Utilize your Brand’s RV Forum

Another great RV troubleshooting resource is your brand’s online forum. There is an online forum for almost every RV manufacturer. These are a great place to ask questions and get answers from other campers who have the exact same model as you.

Always Take Photos before Starting a Repair

Even if a repair seems simple, always take photos before you start. When putting something back together or installing a new part, it can be super easy to forget where a wire was plugged in. Taking photos will save time and prevent frustration.

RV Living Full Time with Pets

Many full time RVers travel with pets. If you plan on bringing your cat or dog along on the journey, follow these tips for RV living full time with pets.

Consider Pets when Buying your RV

You need to start considering your pets’ needs before you select an RV. If you are traveling with a cat, make sure you think about the litter box and scratch pad placement when selecting floorplans.

Keep in Contact with your Home Vet

Earlier, we recommended having an annual “home” visit for doctor appointments. We recommend doing the same with your vet. That way, you can have all your pets’ annual vaccines and check-ups completed by the same vet.

While you may need to visit new vets for unexpected injuries, having a regular vet you trust is important. If your trusted home vet understands your living situation, they will likely also be willing to answer questions over the phone.

Ask Vets to Print Records

Every time you visit a vet, ask them to print out a copy of your pets’ records. The records are very helpful to new vets you have to visit on the road, and vaccine records are sometimes required at campgrounds.

Use BringFido to Find Local Dog Friendly Establishments

No one brings their dog on the road, just to leave them behind at the camper all the time. Use the website BringFido to find dog-friendly restaurants and activities in any town.

Keep a Stash of your Pets’ Regular Food

Changing your pet’s food suddenly may lead to digestive issues. To prevent having to change food, always keep at least a two week stash of your pet’s regular food, so you have time to order more online if you cannot find it in local stores.

Grooming Appointments Need to Be Planned

Any dog owner knows that most dog groomers are booked up weeks if not months in advance. Getting appointments is even harder when you are going to new groomers all the time. Try to plan your travels, so you can make grooming appointments at least two months in advance.

Pets Can’t Always Be Left Home Alone

While it is generally safe to leave your pets in your RV, this is not always the case. If you plan on boondocking, you need to check weather to ensure your pet is safe to be left alone without air conditioning.

Even when connected to shore power, it is possible for the A.C. to go out due to a power outage. Installing a  temperature sensor  allows you to monitor temperature inside your RV from your phone, so you always know your pet is safe.

Never Let your Pet Roam Free at the Campground

While we definitely encourage taking your pets on all the adventures, you should never let your pet roam free at a campsite. Having your pet off leash puts them in danger from cars and other campground pets. It is also against the rules at most campgrounds.

Even if you are camping in the wilderness, it is not advisable to let your pet off leash. They may get hurt by the local wildlife (or they may hurt the wildlife). If you have a cat that loves to be outside, consider leash training or buying an outdoor enclosure.

Essential RV Living Gear

We often talk about downsizing for RV life, but RV living full time also requires a lot of specialty gear. Here are RV living essentials every full time family should own. To save you time, we’ve put links to all of this gear on an Amazon shopping list.

RV Holding Tank Essentials

RV holding tank essentials, include at least 20 feet of sturdy sewer hoses, sewer hose supports and a separate garden hose for flushing your black tank. We also recommend a reverse flush valve, which is a handy tool for breaking up black tank clogs .

Surge Protector

Surge protectors  are one of the most important pieces of equipment to protect your RV. Surge protectors should be used every time your plug into shore power.

These devices protect your RV from surges due to lightening or other issues. Newer models also protect your RV from incorrect wiring and electrical issues at campgrounds.

Water Pressure Regulator

Another essential piece of equipment for campsites with hookups is a water pressure regulator. High water pressure can bust RV plumbing connections and cause leaks (or full on floods).

Buy an adjustable regulator to make sure you stay between a safe range of 40 to 60 PSI.

Tire Gauge and Air Compressor

A handheld digital gauge allows you to check tire pressure before you travel.  We also recommend traveling with a portable air compressor so you can adjust the tire pressure before hitting the road, instead of having to drive to a service station.

Leveling Blocks

These easy to stack blocks allow you to level your RV on uneven ground. They can also be placed under jacks for added stability.

Power Adaptors

Not all campgrounds have both 30-amp and 50-amp plug-ins . If you have a 50-amp RV, you will need 30 amp and 15 amp power adapters. These adapters will allow you to plug into lower amp connections at campgrounds where 50 amp power is not available.

If you have a 30-amp RV, you need a 30 to 50 amp power adaptor, so you can still connect at RV parks that only have a 50-amp plug.

A Basic RV Tool Kit

Earlier, we talked about the importance of routine RV maintenance. To complete this maintenance and other basic RV repairs, you will need a stocked tool box. See our RV tool kit checklist for all of our recommendations.

Alternate Power Sources

If you plan on dry camping or boondocking for any extended period of time, you will need portable power sources. These include solar panels and generators. See our complete guide to RV boondocking for more information.

RV Safety Devices

Every RV needs to be equipped with gas alarms (to detect propane and carbon monoxide), fire extinguishers and smoke alarms.

An RV Log Book

Finally, every full time RVer needs a log book to track their mileage, schedule maintenance and to record details about campsites. After several years on the road, it can be difficult to remember where you stayed during your last visit to each area.

Other Full Time RV Living Tips

There is so much to know about RV living full time that we have one more section of random tips for living on the road.

Find Out if You Like RVing before Moving Into One

Okay, this one may seem obvious, but it is important to find out if you like RVing before you sell your house and move into an RV. We had never been RVing before moving into one. Fortunately, we love the lifestyle!

However, we have spoken to a few full timers over the years who regret the decision to sell all their stuff. Consider renting an RV and taking an extended road trip before you jump feet first into RV living full time.

Think Hard before Renovating

Fully renovating an RV is a ton of work and can cost a lot of money ! Fortunately, many RVs available today come with beautiful, modern interiors .

If you decide to renovate your RV, we highly recommend living in it for at least a few months before you start. It is important to understand your travel day routine and how you use each space before diving into an expensive renovation.

Leave No Trace

Whether you are camping in the wilderness, at a state park or at a resort campground, you should leave your campsite as clean or cleaner than you found it.

In recent years, many popular boondocking sites have been shut down because RV campers were leaving their trash behind.

Magnets are the Best Souvenirs

When RV living full time, it can be difficult to find souvenirs that don’t take up too much space. We’ve found that magnets are the perfect solution. They are small, available at every destination and can be stored right on your refrigerator.

In our first few years of RVing, we collected stickers, but sadly realized we will lose all of these when we eventually move into a new RV.

National Park Stamps are Also a Great Souvenir

Another great souvenir is a National Park Passport. These passport books are made to collect ink stamps from each National Park site that you visit.

Simply, take your National Park Passport to any visitor center or park store and get a free ink stamp with the date and location of your visit. I really wish, I had purchased one of these books before our first National Park adventure!

Sweeping is a Daily Chore

When downsizing for RV living full time, don’t get rid of your broom. If you are traveling with pets or kids, your RV will constantly be full of dirt and sand. Cleaning an RV is pretty easy, but sweeping is a daily chore.

Wheels Can Save You and Your Home

One of the many great things about full time RV living is that it is easy to move your home. If you are ever in an area where a tropical store, hurricane or other major weather event is predicted, then pack up and move away from the storm.

The Journey is More Important than Checking Off a List

When we first hit the road, we regularly counted the number of states and National Parks we had visited. However, we soon realized that enjoying the journey is more important than checking off a list.

We’ve met many full-time RVers who visited every state within a year or two. These speedy travelers seem exhausted. Focus on enjoying exploring an area, instead of rushing off to the next location to hit some arbitrary goal.

Full Time RVers Don’t Need to Give up Their Hobbies

Downsizing for RV living full time doesn’t mean giving up things you use and love. We have two sets of golf clubs, a sewing machine and a hula hoop in our RV. If there is an activity you love, there is always a way to make room for it in your tiny home on wheels.

RV Life Isn’t a Vacation

Finally, it is important to remember that RV living full time doesn’t mean always being on vacation. Living the RV lifestyle definitely means we are on vacation more than the average family, but we still have to deal with all the realities of life.

Thanks for reading our complete guide to full time RV living. If you’ve made it this far, you should be truly prepared for life on the road.

Now for the fun part! See our list of the 10 best RV road trips , and start planning your first adventure.

Happy Camping!

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

25 Crucial Pros and Cons of Living in an RV Full-Time

I have lived in my RV with my kids for 4 weeks at a time. But someday, I may decide to live in ours all the time, and so I wondered about the pros and cons of living in an RV full-time.

The pros of RV living include:

• Saving money on ownership (compared to a house)
• Saving money on ongoing maintenance (compared to a house)
• The freedom to move to better weather
• Meeting new people
• Seeing new places

The cons include:

• Having to place items in storage
• Having to grocery shop more frequently
• Being away from family and friends
• The RV not gaining equity the way a traditional home would
• The RV will eventually need to be replaced
• Learning how to live in a small space

But those are just a few of the biggies full-time RVers have to adjust to.

Before you decide whether or not you want to live in an RV full time, you should read this article. I’ll get into the above pros and cons in greater detail.

But also share 25 of the most crucial pros and cons you’ll want to be aware of before diving into the full-time RV lifestyle.

Let’s jump right in.

PROS of Living in an RV Full-Time

1. 41% cheaper than owning or renting a home.

Renting a home is more expensive than taking out a mortgage or living in an RV, so we won’t discuss it in detail.

Buying a home can work out to be a lot more expensive than buying an RV. Buying a house can cost upwards of $250,000 while buying an RV, even a class A RV can only cost between $50,000 and $200,000.

Spending around $100,000 on an RV means that you will get everything you need for full-time RV living. And even with gas, campground fees, and RV maintenance, you still come out on top by as much as 41% over homeownership.

And if you opt for a travel trailer or fifth wheel, your ownership costs can be even lower.

For now, if you are wondering how to buy an RV to live in , we have the ultimate guide for you in this recent article . Here you will find everything you need to know to go out and buy an RV to live in comfortably.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

2. Maintenance costs can be 53% cheaper than owning a home

When you own a home, you do a lot of regular maintenance.

You might find yourself spending quite a bit of money every month, or you will pay quite a large sum of money once a year to fix that AC or roof that needs fixing in your home.

This is where you start to save a lot of money by living in an RV.

When you live in an RV full-time, you can save up to $200 per month on maintenance costs.

That really starts to add up after three or four years. Your most considerable maintenance cost will come from servicing an RV vehicle, but it is essential to remember that you will still own one or two cars even if you live in a home. So, we usually do not factor in the vehicle to these maintenance costs.

If you want to know more about the costs of living in an RV vs. living in a house , I have written a recent article about it.

In this article, you will learn everything you need to about comparing the costs and much more. Just click that link to read it on my site.

3. You can drive to better weather each season

Being able to travel to different places whenever you want is probably the best thing about owning an RV.

And it is one of the reasons that most people who own one bought it in the first place. You will find that a lot of people who live in an RV full-time have developed routines.

For example, during the summer, you can stay in the northern part of the United States in Colorado, Ohio, and so on.

During the winter, you can evade cold weather simply by starting your engine and driving to Southern California, Florida, Texas, and other warm climate areas.

It is all about choice, and if you choose not to deal with the cold weather, rain, and snow, you don’t have to. If you like the snow, well, start your engine and drive to where ever you want.

The first and foremost rule for winter driving in snow or ice is this: Just don’t. Pull off the road, turn up the heat, put on the coffee, and wait until the weather clears and the road crews get the roads back in safe (snow- and ice-free) conditions. #albanyrvresort #rv #GA pic.twitter.com/izVboCOl6k — Albany RV Resort Inc (@AlbanyRVResort) December 13, 2019

4. No commuting daily to a job

The average American spends around 54 hours per year sitting in traffic.

This number is expected to increase to approximately 64 hours by 2025. That means that you waste more than two days every year simply driving to and from work. For a lot of people, this is unacceptable.

When you live in an RV, you will most probably be working from home or running your online businesses as I do.

When you eliminate the need to commute to and from work, you essentially eliminate a lot of stress from your life, contributing a lot to your mental well-being and happiness factor.

5. Increased connection with your spouse and/or kids

One of the biggest pros of living in an RV is spending quality time with the people you care about the most.

Spending more time with your spouse and your children will create a strong connection between your family.

However, the strongest bond will be formed from something else.

You can significantly increase the connection and bond between you and your family by creating enjoyable experiences together.

While living in an RV, you will experience new challenges and adventures every day. This will create stronger memories within each individual in the family. It is these memories that will bring everybody closer together.

6. Get to see all areas of the country

The United States of America covers around 3.7 million square miles.

The country is quite massive. Most people will never have the chance to see a lot of what the country offers them. For people who live or even go on holiday in an RV, this is different. It would be best if you think to yourself, how many states have you flown over when going on vacations?

When you live in an RV and travel in it, you see more of the country than most people. 

You also get to experience different ways of living and different cultures within each state. Keep a record of the places you have been.

Trust me, after four or five years of living in an RV and traveling in it, you will realize just how much of the country you have seen.

I wanted to check out the beautiful state I’m from so I rented a RV, drove it around California and it was awesome ???? pic.twitter.com/3NeNI09Fpb — katieryan (@katiemakerdao) June 8, 2019

7. If you don’t like an area you’re in, it’s easy to move

When you live in a home, it is easy to control and account for what you and your family do to maintain and upkeep that area.

But, you cannot account for what other people do, and you cannot account for how the economy of that town, county, or state fluctuates over time.

If the place where you are living starts to degrade, you can end up losing a lot of money when selling your home.

When living full-time in an RV , you will not face this problem even if you are permanently situated somewhere. See, if the economy within a local town, suburb, or state starts to decrease, all you have to do is start your engine and drive to the next best place.

Also, sometimes it is just fun to move somewhere else and experience new challenges.

8. Meet interesting new people regularly

When you go on RV road trips, you are going to meet a lot of interesting people.

Not only are you going to meet like-minded individuals who are RV enthusiasts like yourself, but you are also going to meet with the locals, and you will quickly find that each town has its own culture.

You will learn exciting things and have great conversations with these people. 

You might also make lifelong friends, and because you are in an RV, you will see them more than you think because going to their destination is now a lot easier than what it would have been before.

9. A good way to see family in other parts of the country

Family members are constantly moving around, at least in some families.

Sometimes it is hard to control where you get job offers or where you end up going to university. Finding time to visit your family members spread out across the country can be challenging at best.

If you live full-time in an RV, you can make more time to visit your family members.

When you visit your family members, you can either stay with them or stay in your RV without the need to rent hotels, cars, and things of that nature.

So we wanted to say a big thank you to the team @AutotrailVR for all their effort in the 2020 campaign. It involves a lot of people from design, production, marketing and everyone in between. This is the Adventure Range #motorhome #photography #photographer pic.twitter.com/P9il8q4DZN — Kamara Photo, Video & Drone (@kamaraphotos) February 23, 2020

10. Go where you want, when you want

We all have freedom. However, we also have responsibilities, and those responsibilities can keep us from doing whatever we want, whenever we want.

When you live full-time in an RV, you still have responsibilities. However, you take those with you on the road instead of allowing them to hold you back.

If you live in an RV full time, you probably work from home. Therefore, taking your work with you should not be a problem, leading us into our next section.

11. Easy to earn an income on the road blogging or YouTubing

Just because you now live in an RV doesn’t mean you don’t need to work.

You still need to bring in money. Working from home has become more normal than it has ever been, but if you are not lucky enough to have a job that you can do from home, don’t worry because there are other ways of making money online.

You can either start a blog and with some good SEO training, you can have your blog reach millions of people.

Ultimately, this will bring in money. 

You can also start a YouTube channel, and as long as you pick a specific niche and have some knowledge on how to create videos that get views, you will begin to earn money from YouTube.

I do say that it is easy; however, it is essential to remember that things take time, and if you plan on living in an RV full time, it is recommended that you start working on these online businesses before you even set out to buy your RV.

Want my help in setting up a blog or YouTube channel? I do consulting on that since I now earn 5-figures per month doing just that.

Just CLICK HERE to schedule a 30-minute meeting with me for only $100.

12. No yard work!

I want you to think about how much time or money you spend on maintaining your garden.

For new homeowners, this is a novelty that can feel therapeutic at first, but as time goes by, you find yourself resenting the idea of having to mow your lawn, plant plants, and get rid of weeds.

You don’t have this problem in an RV.

Your only concern is maintaining the structural integrity of the RV while also keeping it clean inside. Other than that, it is the responsibility of whichever campground you are on to maintain their facilities.

???? “Work From Home” is ANYWHERE When Your Home is an RV… Does Anyone Else Dream to Live Like This?! pic.twitter.com/ulBcgK3GRQ — Your Best Life Co. (@YBLCompany) November 18, 2020

CONS of Living in an RV Full-Time

It is never good to dwell on the negatives and cons. So, for this section, we will try our best to deliver solutions while discussing each con.

1. Having to sell most of your belongings or rent a storage unit

Depending on your age, you might have quite a lot of belongings that you don’t want to get rid of.

You have a few options when it comes to your belongings. I know, getting rid of your belongings may seem daunting.

If you don’t want to get rid of anything, you can rent a storage unit.

Who knows, maybe one day you settle down in a house again or at least get a small home base somewhere, and you can fetch your stuff. However, if you plan on selling everything, I recommend that you do so at least a month or two in advance.

This is because selling second-hand goods, especially when you do so privately, can take more time than expected.

But not having a permanent address does have its downsides.

2. No way to have downtime from your spouse or family

Whether it is a class A, B, or C, an RV lacks enough space for you to get some alone time in an RV.

Yes, you can get away from everything. All you have to do is do an activity by yourself. This activity could either be a sport, a hike , a hobby or even just going to a restaurant by yourself.

With all of that said, if you are looking to relax in the RV by yourself, the number of times you will get to do this will be limited.

This is great for creating connections between you and your family, but it can also become pretty stressful when all you want to do is sit by yourself with your thoughts.

3. Inconsistent Wi-Fi

If you live full-time in your RV, chances are you need to be connected at all times for work and school. You also have to keep up with your family.

You also need a stable internet connection to keep your kids entertained when you cannot do so yourself.

And while most RV parks claim to offer Wi-Fi, the truth is most campground Wi-Fi will be limited and slow.

So I recommend that you upgrade your current cell plan to offer mobile hotspot/tethering data.

AT&T, notorious in some eyes for customer service, still has the best network and coverage range. But check with your current provider and see what they can offer.

Our hard standings are open all year round for any size caravan or motorhome. 16 amp power supply, personal water supply, grey waste, satellite and Freeview connection, Wifi and ethernet and the serene tranquillity of this beautiful valley #camping #caravanning #ElanValley #Wales pic.twitter.com/AtKjM5ENMj — Elan Oaks Camping (@ElanOaks) February 7, 2019

4. Kids won’t see their friends regularly

If you are permanently situated in a town or area, this won’t be much of a problem.

Yes, your kids won’t see their friends while traveling, but being permanently situated is almost the same as having a home with a lot less responsibility and more freedom.

If you move around a lot, there is a way to keep your kids connected with their friends.

You can do this by allowing them time to stay connected online via social media and even on Skype calls. One of the best ways for your friends to stay connected with their friends is to play online games.

Make sure you have a good mobile data plan to use their phones as hotspots for whichever platform they game on, and they will always stay connected with their friends.

For people with kids, you might also be concerned with education.

So, here is a recent article where I discuss “road schooling.” I talk about everything you need to know, including the logistics and laws of homeschooling your kids in an RV. I also give you some essential tips and tricks my wife and I used when we road-schooled our oldest daughters.

5. Easy to feel isolated from family and friends

It is not only your kids that won’t be able to see their friends regularly.

It will also apply to you, and the more social you are, the more this can affect you. However, the best thing for you to do is stay in contact with your friends via social media.

Also, if you are a very friendly person, it will be easier to meet people on your journeys.

And you will find that your list of friends will grow significantly within the first two years of your travels on the road. So, while this is a con, there is a silver lining.

6. Having to find new RV repair shops everywhere you go

You are going to have to maintain your RV.

There is absolutely no way around this. It is best to fix the minor issues that may arise rather than allowing them to build up and cause more significant problems with the RV. For this reason, you will want to know where the best repair shops are before you get to any location.

If your passenger is bored, it will be best to plan and look for repair shops along the way to your destination.

As you travel to the more secluded parts of the country, it will become harder to find a repair shop, let alone a reputable one.

Always try and have your repairs done by a reputable repair shop.

Your RV or trailer isn’t just a vehicle, it’s your home away from home. When it breaks down, you’ll need swift assistance to get you to a repair shop. Road Heros is available 24/7 to handle any emergency. https://t.co/46Lket94MA #RoadHeros … pic.twitter.com/esctRPyg1g — ROADHEROS LLC (@RoadHerosLLC) March 13, 2019

7. Road fatigue

You have most probably heard of road rage, but did you know that there is also such a thing as “road fatigue”? Many sales reps suffer from this at some point during their career, and it can take a toll on your well-being.

If you start to feel road fatigue, you should stay in one place for at least a month or two.

At the same time, you might begin to feel cabin fever from staying in the RV. At this point, I recommend finding a short-term rental or even staying in a hotel for a little while.

Maybe visit your friends and family in one part of the country and hope that they are kind enough to put you up for a week or two.

And of course, if you are just sleeping in a stock RV bed, it may be physical fatigue as well as mental.

But you don’t have to settle for a mediocre mattress or pay through the nose to upgrade. Check out my recent article which explores all the ways you can improve sleep quality in an RV, and do it on a budget!

8. Having to always find new doctors or clinics and making sure they are in-network

It is becoming easier and easier to check the reputation of a doctor, thanks to online sources.

Before seeing a doctor, you can check up on them and see their reviews, and if you are not on health insurance, finding a doctor is a little bit easier.

If you are on health insurance, you need to make sure that you know which doctors are covered by your insurance.

9. Increased food costs

Living in an RV full-time means spending more time and money eating out and getting fast takeaway food.

While at first, it may not seem like such a big issue, the cost does start to build up as time goes by, and when you factor in things like tipping your server, these costs can be pretty high.

Glorious weather is going to be an absolute mind-bender for a lot of people. Cabin fever turned up to eleven. As a very outdoorsy person myself exploring the great outdoors in my motorhome, it’s going to quite a test of endurance this year. pic.twitter.com/IMBB4P1e3o — ???????????????????????????? Bradley Dare ????????????????????????????• ⚖️ (@doctorwhotardi8) April 5, 2020

10. RV insurance is 63% more expensive than homeowners or renter’s insurance.

Insurance companies tend to charge around 63% more for RV insurance than homeowners or renters insurance. That’s because it’s not only like a house, but it’s also like a car. So you are paying for both.

I want to add that even with this extra cost, it is still cheaper to live in an RV than in a house.

What makes this extra cost terrible is that you know that you are paying extra. It is the knowledge of it rather than the actual act of paying more.

11. Not a great option for cat people

I know that it is easy to assume that your cat will enjoy traveling.

After all, a lot of cats roam around at night. Even though cats roam around, it is important to remember that they only roam in the areas where they are comfortable.

They are not a pet that likes leaving their familiar surroundings.

We have discussed extensively how to travel with your cat in an RV in a recent article . In that article, you will learn the best practices to make traveling or living full-time with your cats in an RV the most pleasant experience possible for you and your cat.

Just click that link to see my cat tips right here on my site.

If you have dogs, things get a little bit easier. Dogs are loyal to their owners. The more time they get to spend with you, the happier there are, so you will find that some dogs prefer the RV as it means they are closer to you.

If you have dogs and want to take them with you , we have written a recent article that acts as the complete guide to living in an RV with dogs. Just click that link to read more on my site.

12. Not a great option for those with a regular day job

If you have a day job, you can still live in an RV. However, you lose one of the most remarkable features of living in an RV which is being able to travel the country whenever you want. You will need to be permanently situated at an RV campsite.

And you will most probably need to have a separate vehicle to get you to and from work.

I would still recommend owning an RV, although you might only be able to use it during vacations, and this would mean having a storage unit for the RV.

13. More frequent trips to the grocery store

Even if you are a magician when it comes to stocking your fridge and pantry in a way that maximizes the amount of space you have, you will still end up making more trips to the grocery store.

Remember, in an RV, everything is smaller.

Your storage cupboards and your refrigerator won’t hold as much groceries as regular appliances and storage cupboards will.

Basically, you won’t be able to buy in bulk. 

You will have to buy what you need and the exact quantities that you need. So, not only will you make more trips to the grocery store, but you will also have to put a lot more planning into the groceries you buy.

Final thoughts

This article has been an extensive one.

Hopefully, you now understand what you are getting yourself into when you decide to live in an RV full time. This is also where I like to give my personal opinion.

Look, living in an RV is not always going to be easy. It is the good times that make the tough times worth it.

At the end of each day, going to bed in an RV , you will be able to reflect on a productive day where you did what you wanted to do and that freedom is hard to find.

How to RV Full-Time: Everything You Need to Know

There are over 1 million Americans living full-time in RVs today.

And full-time RV living is becoming more and more popular every day, as more Americans than ever are ditching the big house and endless responsibilities for a smaller life full of adventure and experiences.  

But if you’re thinking about living in an RV full-time it’s hard to know where to get started.

So we created this complete guide that tells you everything you need to know about how to live in an RV full-time .  

What to Do Before Moving into an RV Full-Time

There are many things you need to do early on when preparing to live in an RV full-time and most of them can be done even if you don’t own an RV yet.

Decide How You Want to RV Full-Time

While you might think there’s just one way to RV full-time, in reality, there are several different ways to full-time RV.

So while you’re in the planning and prepping stage, it’s a good idea to think about what type of RVing you want to do, as this can have a big impact on not only how you RV but also the type of RV you choose.

There are five main types of RV lifestyles including the adventure seeker, the nature lover, the hobbyist, the stay and relaxer, and the warm weather seeker.  

Different Types of Full-Time RVers

• Adventure Seeker – The adventure seeker is an RVer that is always on the move looking for their next big adventure.  For these RVers, it’s all about the experiences, and because they are constantly on the move a small and compact travel trailer or Class B RV will be best suited to their RV lifestyle.  
• Nature Lover – RV nature lovers want to spend as much time as possible in and surrounded by nature.  And will usually spend most of their time in National Parks, forestry land, and BLM land.  Because of this, these RVer should look for smaller RVs capable of boondocking due to the size limits in most National Parks,  and the lack of RV hookups on most public lands.  
• The Hobbyist – The hobbyist is an RVer that spends the majority of their time doing and focused on a particular hobby or activity such as mountain biking, climbing, or hiking.
• Stay and Relaxer – This type of RVer is far more stationary than most other types of RVers. For them, it’s not about endless adventure seeking but about being able to slow down and enjoy life more with fewer responsibilities.  Larger and more luxurious RVs are best suited for this type of RV lifestyle such as Class A motorhomes as well as fifth wheels.  
• Warm Weather Seeker – Another very popular type of RVer is the warm weather seeker that is often called a snowbird.  This type of RVer is constantly searching for warm weather and sun and will typically move to the southern portion of the US during the winter months.

Try a Few Trial Runs Before Transition to Full-Time RV Living

A great thing to do before moving into an RV full-time is to try a few trial runs before the big move, so you have a better idea of what to expect.

If you already own an RV these trial runs are pretty easy to accomplish, as you just need to live in your RV full-time for a week or even a month or more parked in your driveway or near your house to see what full-time RV living is really like.

For those that don’t own an RV yet, you can accomplish these trial runs by renting an RV for a week or more on a site like RVshare or Outdoorsy, to get a better feel for full-time RV living. 

And if you find yourself continually wanting or needing to retreat back to your home during these trial runs, this might be a sign that you’re not quite ready for full-time RV living or that it might not be the right fit for you at all.

Which is a much better thing to find out early on, as opposed to farther down the road, when you’ve already made several big changes to your life.

Downsize, Downsize, Downsize

Probably the most important thing to do before moving into an RV full-time is downsizing your life as well as your positions to fit into 250 square feet or less.  

Did you know that the average American home has 300,000 items in it?

So a good portion of your prep time before you move into an RV needs to be spent figuring out what to do with all the stuff you have accumulated over a lifetime of buying and consuming.  

This doesn’t mean however you need to get rid of everything you own, nor does it mean you have to part with the things you love. 

It just means you need to prioritize your possessions and keep only the things you truly love or need.

Also, remember Rome wasn’t conquered in a day, and this is not something you need to conquer in a day either.  Instead, be patient with yourself and give yourself plenty of time to sort through a lifetime of possessions and things.  

If you don’t already own an RV, it’s a good idea to buy a used RV first as this will provide a lot more flexibility down the road.

Because no matter how much preparation and planning you do, until you actually get out on the road and experience full-time RV living for yourself, it’s hard to know exactly what type of RV is best for you and your family.  

And by buying used you will be in a much better position financially to change the size or type of RV your living in because you won’t have to absorb the huge depreciation hit that is common with new RVs.

For even more reasons on why it’s better to buy a used RV over a new one, check out our article “ 14 Reasons to Buy a Used RV Over a New One “.

Handling Mail and Packages While Living in an RV

In today’s modern world letters and mail are becoming less and less important.

But for those letters and packages, we do need, it’s important to know how to handle them when living full-time in an RV.

The first thing to realize is that most of the mail you receive on a day-to-day basis you don’t really need in the first place.  Especially considering that half your mailbox these days is probably filled with junk mail.  

The next thing to realize is that by transitioning to full-time RV living, you will automatically eliminate several pieces of mail, as you will no longer receive utility bills.

Once you’ve realized these two things, then you just need to focus on eliminating as much mail as possible . 

This is pretty easy to do in today’s world, as most companies and banks will gladly send your bills or bank statements to your email as opposed to your mailbox.

And for the last bit of mail you can’t eliminate, you can either have it sent to a family member or close friend and pick it up whenever you happen to be in town or use an RV club such as Escapee that will provide a permanent mailing address to you and then send your mail to where ever you happen to be at the time for a monthly fee of around $10.

The last big hurdle is packages that you might need to receive while traveling full-time in an RV but this too is not that big of a deal, as most RV parks you stay in will allow you to ship packages to the RV park or even directly to your campsite .  

How to Prepare an RV for Full-Time Living

There is a big difference in how you prepare an RV for full-time living and how you prepare an RV for a weekend getaway. 

So to help get your RV ready for full-time living we have included the three most important things to take care of.

Have an Organizational Plan and Get Organized

Organization is far more important when you’re living full-time in an RV, as you will be packing and storing far more things throughout the RV. 

So it’s important to have a good organizational plan for both the inside as well as outside of the RV so you can find things when you need them.  

Have Your RV Fully Inspected and Serviced

While there’s no way to eliminate or prevent things from breaking on an RV as this is just part of RV life.  

It’s a good idea to get your RV fully inspected and serviced before you start your full-time RV journey ,  as this will usually help to reduce the number of issues and problems you encounter while on the road. 

Not to mention that it’s much easier to have an RV worked on and repaired when it’s empty and you’re not living in it.  

Don’t Buy Everything All at Once

For most people planning to live in an RV full-time, their first inclination is to run out and buy everything they think they could possibly need.

Unfortunately, this often leads to overbuying and a really packed RV, as most full-time RVers figure out in time they needed a lot less stuff than they initially thought they did.

So instead of running out and buying a bunch of stuff for full-time living.  In the beginning, focus on the basics, then once you’ve lived in the RV for a while and figured out what you really need, you can buy those additional items .  

Working While Living in an RV Full-Time

For most of us living in an RV also means we need to find a way to work from an RV.  

But luckily with high-speed internet and wider acceptance of mobile work as well as the nomadic lifestyle, this has never been easier.

Working from an RV or while traveling really falls into two main buckets including short-term gig work or internet-based remote work.  And which one you choose depends largely on your skill set as well as what type of work you like to do.

Before you start looking for a new place to work though, make sure to check with your current employer first, to see if they would be willing to let you work remotely.

Short-Term Gig Work

Short-term gig work is the easiest type of work to find while living in an RV. 

While the pay isn’t always that great, usually the hours are very flexible and it’s easy to start and stop.

Some of the best places to find short-term gig work while living in an RV include:

• Snagajob – Best for Finding Part-Time Hourly Work
• UpWork – Great Place to Find Freelance Work
• CoolWorks – Best Place to Find Seasonal Jobs
• Craigslist – Great Place to Find Local Work

Remote Work

While it might be a little more challenging to find and get hired on for remote work, this is often the best option if you’re looking for more permanent and stable work with higher pay.   

Again one of the best places to start, if your looking for professional remote work is your current employer, as you would be surprised at how many companies are willing to consider this at least for a trial basis. 

But if it’s not possible to turn your current job into a remote job, these sites are a great place to get started.

• Indeed – Best Overal Job Site With a Wide Variety of Jobs and Work
• FlexJobs – Best Remote Work Site (Does Require a Paid Membership)
• WeWorkRemotely – Best Free Remote Work Site
• RemoteOK – Number One Site for Digital Nomads

Full-Time RV Living and Money

Money and cost are usually the two biggest concerns for most RVers wanting to go full time.

So we have tried to answer every conceivable question you could possibly have about money and cost related to full-time RV living.  

https://youtu.be/EaxisePRepM

How Much Money Do You Need to Full-Time RV?

When trying to figure out how much money you need to full-time RV it’s important to write out a personal budget. 

As there is often a lot of variation in monthly costs between one full-time RVer and the next, based on a number of factors including their RV lifestyle.  

And to help you get started on your monthly budget, we have included a list of typical RV expenses that almost every RV budget should have.  

Typical Monthly RV Expenses

• RV Financing Cost  – This one can vary greatly depending on how much you spent on your RV as well as how much you financed.
• Campground Fees – This is another one that can vary a lot, as some full-time RVers choose to stay exclusively in RV parks, while other full-timers rarely stay in RV parks and instead choose to boondock or camp for free on National Forest land or BLM land.  
• Fuel / Propane Costs – The amount of traveling you do as well as the type of RV you have, will have a great impact on your fuel costs.  
• RV Service and Repair Costs – One item that most people leave off their RV budget are the service and repair costs of the RV, which usually runs anywhere from $500 to $1,000 a year.
• RV Insurance – Full-time RV insurance will usually cost around $1,500 a year.
• Health Insurance – Your health insurance costs should stay about the same unless you have to change jobs or change the type of work you do while RV living. 
• Groceries – Plan to spend about as much on groceries as you do now, plus or minus a hundred bucks.
• Entertainment / Dining Out – This is another budget expense that can vary greatly, as some full-time RVers spend a ton on entertainment and dining out, while others opt for more free activities and eating at home.
• Cell Phone / Internet – While your cell phone bill should stay pretty much the same if you want high-speed internet, expect the cost to double or even triple compared to what you’re currently paying for home internet.  
• RV Club or Camping Memberships – While RV clubs and memberships are not absolutely necessary, they tend to make life easier while on the road and can even save you money.

Is Living in an RV Cheaper Than a House?

While you might think living in an RV would always be cheaper compared to living in a house, in reality, this is not always the case and depends largely on the type of lifestyle you lead while RVing.

Because while you can eliminate some bill bills living in an RV such as mortgage payments, rent payments, and utility bills. 

There are often new bills that will take their places such as RV parking and fuel costs, that can cost you just as much if not more.

What is the Average Monthly Cost to Live in an RV?

Most full-time RVers will usually spend between $2,000 and $2,500 a month while living full-time in an RV. 

However, this number can vary greatly depending on a number of factors as some RVers spend less than $1,000 a month, while other RVers spend more than $5,000 a month.

How to Live in an RV for Free?

While it would be challenging to live in an RV completely free, there are things you can do that will save you a ton of money and allow you to live in an RV mostly free.  

In fact, two of my favorite nomads as well as YouTubers Elsa Rhae and Barron have found a  way to consistently live on only $500 a month while living in an RV, when you take out the cost of their groceries.  

Top Ways to Live as Cheaply as Possible While RVing

• Avoid RV Parks and Boondock Instead – The number one way to save money while RVing is to avoid RV parks and boondock instead by staying on National Forest or BLM land that is completely free.  
• Work Camping – If boondocking doesn’t sound like something you want to do, you can also try work camping which will allow you to stay in an RV park at a discount or nearly free for working part-time at the campground.  
• Buy a Used RV with Cash – Another big monthly cost for most RVers is the financing cost of their new rig, so if your looking to RV for free, consider buying an older RV in good condition that you can pay cash for.  
• Use Solar Power – Once you get past the initial cost of a solar setup you can, in essence, produce free electricity for all your electrical needs while RVing.
• Find Free Places to Fill Up on Water – There are many places you can find free water including gas stations and rest stops, you just need to seek permission first.  

How do you Finance an RV?

RV financing can either be done through a bank or at an RV dealership.

However, usually, an RV is financed at an RV dealer through a bank or a lender the RV dealer has a relationship with.

While RV loans do differ from loan to loan, below are typical industry standards for RV loans. 

Typical RV Financing

Is it safe to live in an rv full-time.

While things can always potentially go wrong, in general, full-time RV living is pretty safe and typically not any more dangerous than living in a more traditional home.  

However, there are some potential dangers that you should be aware of as well as some precautions you can take to help ensure you and your family stay safe while living in an RV full-time.

Full-Time RV Safety Tips

• Trust Your Gut – While most places are generally safe, some areas are not.  So if your gut is telling you this area doesn’t feel right or that it might not be safe, listen to your gut and find a new place to visit or park.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings – Often the difference between being a victim of a crime or not, depends on your level of awareness of what going on around you, so always be aware of your surroundings.
• Know Where to Find Help – When living in an RV full-time, you can often be in remote areas.  So when you get to a new area take a few minutes to find out where the local emergency services are and how to get in touch with them.  
• Watch Out for Bad Weather – When living in an RV, bad weather is a bigger deal, so make sure you always keep an eye on the weather and take appropriate actions if the weather turns bad.  
• Consider Adding Extra Security to the RV – Because an RV is much smaller than a traditional home, it typically does’nt cost much to add a security system or extra security to the RV. 
• Make Sure All Detectors are Working – Be sure to periodically check your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are in property working order.
• Be Cautious of Wildlife – While wildlife can be beautiful, it’s important to remember they are wild animals and can be unpredictable, so it’s best to keep your distance and take appropriate precautions.  

For even more information on RV safety, check out these other two articles we wrote including “ Are RV Parks Safe?  How to Stay Safe in RV Parks ” and “ How Safe are RVs:  Things You Need to Know “.

What Type of RV is Best for Full-Time Living?

The best RV for full-time living depends largely on how you plan to live in your RV as well as your RV lifestyle. 

So when trying to decide on the best RV for full-time living, instead of focussing on the RV, focus on how you plan to live in your RV and then choose an RV that best fits that lifestyle.  

For example, if you plan on traveling extensively while living in an RV, it’s best to stick with smaller RVs such as a small travel trailer or Class B RV, as they will offer better fuel efficiency, will fit in more places, and be easier to move aound. 

If however, you plan on being mostly stationary and want a lot of creature comforts, you should focus on larger RVs such as Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels.  

Where to Park Your RV if You Live in it Full-Time

The last thing to know about if you plan to live in your RV full-time is where you can legally and safely park your RV.

While there are many places you can park your RV short-term, the two main long-term parking options for full-time RV living are RV parks or campgrounds and boondocking.

And which one you choose depends largely on how you want to live full-time in an RV. 

So to help you decide we have included both the pros and cons for both RV parks as well as boondocking.

RV Park Pros

• Full or partial RV hookups.
• Amenities such as pools, laundry facilities, free wi-fi, and playgrounds.
• Actively managed and someone available to handle issues and problems.
• Enhanced safety thanks to common safety measures such as  24-hour security, fenced perimeters, security gate, and cameras.

RV Park Cons

• Can be expensive as RV parks usually cost between $30 and $50 a night, however, some RV parks due offer long-term or monthly rates that are cheaper.
• Can be noisy and crowded.
• Sites are very close together.
• Very little nature or wildlife  (unless you’re staying in a National or State Park).

Boondocking

Boondocking Pros

• While boondocking you usually stay on government lands such as National Forest land or BLM land which is completely free to stay on.   
• Surrounded by nature.
• Less noise and crowds.  
• Offers a lot more privacy.

Boondocking Cons

• No RV hookups.
• Will offer very few if any amenities, however, you can sometimes find vault toilets or a communal water source.  
• Cell phone signals are hard to come by and can be very limited.  
• Because boondocking involves remote camping, help can be much farther away and harder to reach in case of an emergency.  
• Most boondocking or dispersed camping locations have a limit of 14 days before you have to move. 

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

Recent Posts

36 Unique RV Gift Ideas For Every Budget: $10 to $100

Are you hunting for unique RV gift ideas for your favorite RVer? If so, you've come to the right place. Finding the perfect RV present can be as tricky as backing into a tight campsite. So, we...

8 Cool Pop-Up Campers with AC to Beat the Heat

Gone are the days when camping in a pop-up meant sweating it out in a stuffy uncomfortable tent, as today's top-of-the-line pop-up campers come with a variety of comfort features, including air...

FDA approves the new Covid vaccine. Here's the best time to get it.

The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved the new Covid vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna.

It’s the third time the vaccines have been updated to match circulating strains since the original series. The shots should be available within days. The agency hasn't yet approved a third vaccine, from drugmaker Novavax.

The timing of the new vaccines — last year's rollout was in mid-September — is significant, since most of the U.S. is still caught in the summer wave of Covid illness. As of Monday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported, the number of people testing positive for Covid keeps rising and emergency room visits for Covid have been increasing since mid-May. Hospitalizations are rising , too.

Here’s what to know about the updated vaccines.

How are the new Covid vaccines different? 

The new shots from Pfizer and Moderna are designed to target the KP.2 strain, a descendant of the highly contagious JN.1 variant that began circulating widely in the U.S. last winter. The drugmakers started making the new doses in June after the FDA advised them to freshen the formulas to match the version of the virus that was gaining ground in the U.S. 

A third vaccine, from drugmaker Novavax, has been updated to target the JN.1 strain. JN.1 and KP.2 have largely faded from circulation, according to the CDC.

As of Saturday, a sister strain called KP.3.1.1 accounted for about 36% of all new Covid cases, while another sister strain, KP.3, accounted for about 17%. 

It’s unclear exactly how effective the vaccines will be against the newer strains, but experts expect that they will protect against severe illness.

A spokesperson from Pfizer told NBC News that data submitted to the FDA shows that its vaccine generates a “substantially improved” immune response against multiple currently circulating variants, including KP.3, compared to earlier versions of the vaccine. 

There are “very minor sequence differences” between the variants, said John Moore, a professor of microbiology and immunology at Weill Cornell Medical College. 

A paper published this month in the journal Infectious Diseases found that KP.3.1.1 shares similarities with JN.1 and KP.2, although it has a few additional mutations that may help it spread more easily. 

“All these changes are incremental. They do not change the overall big picture,” Moore said. “KP.3.1.1 is just another step in the road that the overall omicron lineage is taking towards greater transmissibility.”

Who should get the new Covid vaccine?

In an earlier interview, Dr. Ashish Jha, dean of the Brown University School of Public Health and a former White House Covid-19 response coordinator, said Covid is most likely endemic in the U.S., meaning the virus is following “a relatively predictable pattern that will last a very long time.” 

That means we’ll be getting a yearly updated Covid vaccine to protect against mutations and waning immunity, just like annual flu shots.

As of May 11, only 22.5% of adults got last year’s updated Covid vaccine, according to data from the CDC . Only 14.4% of children ages 6 months through 17 years got vaccinated.

For this fall, the CDC recommended that all Americans ages 6 months and older get the new shots.

But Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Toronto, said it’s challenging to make a one-size-fits-all recommendation on who should get the vaccine, especially for healthy, young adults.

“It’s fair to say that the vaccines are still helpful, certainly at an individual level, and to some extent at a community level,” he said.

It’s critically important that people at the highest risk of a severe Covid infection — including people over 65 or with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, such as heart disease or obesity — get the vaccine, Bogoch said

“The heavy lifting of the vaccine is really in protecting the most vulnerable people from severe outcomes, like hospitalization and death,” he said. 

When should I get the new Covid vaccine?

Millions of people in the U.S. have had Covid within the last few weeks and months. An advantage of the summer wave is that people who have recently recovered have an immune boost to fight off future infections. 

Because the vaccines will be available earlier this year than last, the question of timing for the most protection through the winter is more urgent. According to CDC guidance, if you’ve recently had Covid , “you may consider delaying your vaccine dose by 3 months.”  

For people at high risk of severe illness, experts say get the vaccine when it becomes available. That's because infection may not provide as much protection as vaccination, said Dr. Ofer Levy, the director of the Precision Vaccines Program at Boston Children’s Hospital. 

Protection from infection can vary based on the severity of infection, the strain, as well as a person’s age and health. 

For the young and healthy, it may not be as beneficial to get the vaccine so close to recovery from infection, said Akiko Iwasaki, professor of immunology at the Yale School of Medicine. High levels of antibodies present from recent infection may prevent the vaccine from stimulating new immune cells.

“If there’s a lot of antibodies already circulating, those antibodies are going to block the [vaccine] from doing its job,” she said. “That’s one reason why it’s not recommended to get the vaccine immediately after you’ve had Covid.”

Dr. Paul Sax, clinical director of the division of infectious diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, said there’s no harm in getting the vaccine now, although it may make more sense to wait since Covid cases tend to pick up around November.

“Assuming that’s the case again this year, I would say sometime in October when people get their flu shot would be perfect,” Sax said. 

There’s not a risk to getting it right away, but the initial protection from the vaccine may not last through an expected winter wave, Sax said. 

“The good thing is that all of us with our immunity from prior vaccines or getting Covid or both don’t have as much of a risk of severe disease,” he said. “But if you want to really completely avoid getting infected it’s that antibody spike after the vaccine that happens one to three weeks after that’s most protective.” 

Dr. Manisha Juthani, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, said that people who recently had Covid can wait a few months before they get their updated vaccine. 

“Immunity does wane from having had Covid or getting the vaccine,” Juthani said Wednesday during a media briefing with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials ahead of the winter respiratory virus season. “If you don’t feel strongly about getting the vaccine right away, then waiting about three months from when you had Covid, and particularly, so that as we’re approaching the holidays, that you get that shot before the big holidays and when you may be gathering with people.” 

“If you feel strongly that you really want to get the shot as soon as it’s available, even if you had Covid this summer, then of course you can get that,” she added. “There’s nothing to say that you can’t in September or October.”

Data from prior Covid vaccines suggests that the initial protection against infection peaks about a month after the shot and starts to wane over the next several months, even when the vaccine is well matched to the circulating strains. 

Fortunately protection against severe disease remains robust for much longer, Iwasaki said.

Ultimately you never know when you may become infected with the virus, she said.

“It’s kind of a risky calculation because waves just means that there is a large number of infections in the population, but at the individual level you can get infected tomorrow,” she said. “So it’s very difficult to predict what is the best time to get it.” 

Iwasaki plans to get the vaccine herself sooner rather than later since she has not been infected or had a booster in some time. 

Sax recommends that his patients wait two to three months after recovering before getting another shot. 

“The reality is, your infection gives you some boost of your own immunity,” he said.

What are side effects of the new Covid vaccines?

Like other versions of the Covid vaccines and similar to flu shots, the most common reaction is some pain at the injection site. Other side effects include :

• Muscle pain

The CDC says the side effects typically resolve after a few days. Serious side effects , such as the life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, are rare.

Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines have been associated with a small but increased risk of myocarditis , the inflammation of the heart muscle, mostly in young men. Most people make a full recovery.

How much will it cost?

Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are charging up to $150 per dose for a Covid vaccine , according to data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The vast majority of people with public and private health insurance should pay nothing out of pocket for the updated Covid vaccines —as long as they stick with an in-network provider, said Jennifer Kates, director of the Global Health & HIV Policy Program.

Medicare and Medicaid require that the vaccines are free for patients. The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, requires private insurers to cover all vaccines that are recommended by the CDC’s vaccine committee and director.

However, Kates added that the ACA’s requirement does not apply to grandfathered plans — plans that existed before the ACA was signed into law — and short-term health plans. 

“People enrolled in these plans may face cost sharing for the Covid vaccine, or the vaccine may not be covered at all,” she said.

Children without insurance can get free vaccines through the government-run Vaccines for Children Program.

For adults without health insurance, the situation is a bit different. The CDC’s Bridge Access Program — which has been paying for shots for uninsured adults — is expected to shut down in August because of a lack of funding.

Once the funding runs out, uninsured individuals may be able to access free Covid vaccines through community health centers and other safety net providers that participate in the Section 317 vaccine program for adults, Kates said. Section 317 is a federal initiative that gives funding to states to provide vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults.

“Some state and local health departments may also have a limited supply for people without insurance, but any supply will be very limited,” Kates said.

Berkeley Lovelace Jr. is a health and medical reporter for NBC News. He covers the Food and Drug Administration, with a special focus on Covid vaccines, prescription drug pricing and health care. He previously covered the biotech and pharmaceutical industry with CNBC.

Akshay Syal, M.D., is a medical fellow with the NBC News Health and Medical Unit. 

I spend less than $300 on back-to-school shopping for my 2 kids. Here's what works to help me save money.

• I have two kids in high school, and I spend less than $300 on back-to-school shopping.
• My kids never have a whole new wardrobe at the start of each new school year.
• We don't buy new backpacks or lunch boxes unless the old ones are worn out.

I've found that parents are either on team "I can't wait to get these kids out of my house" or team "Man, summer was just too short." Either way, we are all dreading the anticipated dent in our wallets that back-to-school shopping makes.

Although I'm occasionally guilty of spending too much on my kids, I manage to keep the spending down when it comes to back-to-school shopping.

I spend about $300 on both kids before school starts. This is how I do it.

They don't get a full new wardrobe

A new school year doesn't mean a whole new wardrobe. My kids are still growing, so of course, I replenish what they've outgrown or what is badly worn out, but most of the time, what they've already got in their closets is acceptable to wear to school .

I buy most of my kids' school clothes during the after-Thanksgiving sales. I'll look at other big sale weekends, such as Memorial Day, but I've found the best deals on clothes on Black Friday , although I no longer brave the stores and grab everything online.

Even when buying school clothes for my kids on sale, I don't buy a lot. We live in the south and don't see chilly weather until at least November. Since my kids are allowed to wear shorts to school, they wear the shorts that they wear all summer as long as they still fit.

Related stories

They re-use backpacks and lunchboxes if they're serviceable

I also don't automatically replace backpacks and lunchboxes at the start of every year. I replace these items only when they wear out, break, or get so ratty that they're unsightly.

Pottery Barn is my go-to place for backpacks and lunchboxes . They cost a bit more, but I usually get at least three years of use out of them.

I also quit buying my kids whimsical backpacks and lunchboxes early on in elementary school. Sure, cartoon characters and dinosaurs are cute, but kids' tastes change and why buy a new lunchbox just because your child is over Paw Patrol or decides they aren't into spaceships? A plain backpack might not be as fun, but my kids can express themselves with fun tee shirts that I don't expect to fit next year, not a $50 backpack I buy because I know it will last.

Our last round of lunchboxes lasted for three years. At the end of every school year, I throw them in the washer — although I don't put them in the dryer — and regular dirt, pencil marks, and footprints wash out. Yeah, I probably don't want to know what actually happens in the school cafeteria.

Keeping a stock of school supplies basics on hand saves both time and money

I spent more on school supplies when my kids were in elementary school — school supply lists times two with crayons, colored pencils, and so many glue sticks drove my expenses up.

From seventh grade on, school supply lists were much slimmer. That said, my kids still need school supplies, but they're usually the basics, such as paper, notebooks, folders, and pens and pencils. For several years, I've bought the basics in bulk on Amazon, so I've always spent less when the school supply list comes out. A chunk of the items my kids need are already in my cabinet.

Also, I never go to the store in person to buy school supplies. The school supply aisles always feel chaotic and picked through. What I don't order on Amazon, I've ordered from my Shipt or my grocery store's curbside service. Outsourcing searching for a 24-pack of Crayola-not-Rose-Art crayons preserved a little bit of my sanity during a hectic season.

I buy used stuff

I use thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace as much as I can. Not only does this save me money, but it's also a more sustainable shopping practice since kids often grow out of their clothes before they've had a chance to wear them out or at all. Some of my best thrift store scores still had tags on them.

I can typically score jeans in good condition, sports equipment, and dress clothes at secondhand stores, online marketplaces, and buy-and-sell groups. In 10+ seasons of soccer and baseball, I've bought brand-new cleats exactly twice. One of my sons plays violin in the school's orchestra and has to wear black slacks and black dress shoes for performances, which happen about four times a year. Until he's done growing, it makes no sense to drop a ton of money on things he won't wear often.

Watch: 4 ways of recycling waste into everyday items

• Main content

Advertisement

Supported by

Fed Chair Powell Signals ‘Time Has Come’ for September Rate Cut

Jerome H. Powell made it clear that the Federal Reserve will cut rates on Sept. 18, as the central bank turns the corner in its fight against inflation.

• Share full article

Fed’s Powell Signals an Upcoming Rate Cut in Jackson Hole Remarks

Jerome h. powell indicated the federal reserve will begin to cut interest rates in september, but stopped short of stating how large that move might be..

The time has come for policy to adjust. The direction of travel is clear, and the timing and pace of rate cuts will depend on incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks. We will do everything we can to support a strong labor market as we make further progress toward price stability. Today, the labor market has cooled considerably from its formerly overheated state. The unemployment rate began to rise over a year ago and is now at 4.3 percent — still low by historical standards, but almost a full percentage point above its level in early 2023. The upside risks to inflation have diminished. And the downside risks to employment have increased. After a pause earlier this year, progress toward our 2 percent objective has resumed. My confidence has grown that inflation is on a sustainable path back to 2 percent. So let me wrap up by emphasizing that the pandemic economy has proved to be unlike any other and that there remains much to be learned from this extraordinary period.

By Jeanna Smialek

Reporting from the Kansas City Fed’s annual conference at Jackson Hole in Wyoming

Speaking in his most closely watched speech of the year, Jerome H. Powell, the chair of the Federal Reserve, clearly signaled on Friday that the central bank was poised to cut interest rates in September.

And while Mr. Powell stopped short of giving a clear hint at just how large that move might be, he forcefully underscored that the central bank stands prepared to adjust policy to protect the job market from weakening further and to keep the economy on a path for a soft landing.

“The time has come for policy to adjust,” Mr. Powell said during the Kansas City Fed’s annual conference at Jackson Hole in Wyoming. “The direction of travel is clear, and the timing and pace of rate cuts will depend on incoming data, the evolving outlook and the balance of risks.”

He then added: “We will do everything we can to support a strong labor market as we make further progress toward price stability.”

Mr. Powell’s speech was his firmest declaration yet that the Fed is turning a corner in its fight against inflation. After more than a year of holding interest rates at 5.3 percent, the highest level in more than two decades, officials finally have enough confidence to change their stance by cutting rates at their Sept. 17-18 meeting.

Policymakers have been using those high rates to try to cool the economy and, by doing so, wrestle down rapid inflation. But as price increases slow substantially and the job market shows signs of wobbling, officials no longer need to hit the brakes quite so hard.

The big question now is just how big a September rate cut will be, and how rapidly the Fed will lower borrowing costs in the months that follow. Policymakers will meet again in November and December.

Mr. Powell did not provide a clear outline for the path ahead, but by focusing on risks to the labor market, he did clearly hint that central bankers are willing to cut interest rates quickly rather than gradually if the job market appears to be at risk.

“We do not seek or welcome further cooling in labor market conditions,” he said, later adding that a strong labor market could be maintained with “an appropriate dialing back of policy restraint.”

The unemployment rate jumped in July, and Fed officials will receive August jobs data on Sept. 6, just ahead of their next meeting. Mr. Powell was clear that central bankers are keenly focused on the possibility of a job market slowdown.

“The upside risks to inflation have diminished,” Mr. Powell said in his speech. “And the downside risks to employment have increased.”

Markets rallied on Friday, with the S&P 500 index posting a gain that pushed it closer to a fresh record high. Government bond yields fell as investors priced in the possibility of steeper Fed rate cuts in the future.

The Fed’s looming decision about how much to cut interest rates — and how quickly to proceed with reductions after September — comes at a fraught political moment. The central bank is poised to begin lowering interest rates just weeks before the presidential election in November.

That could plunge Fed officials, who set policy independently from the White House and who fiercely defend that insulation, into the political spotlight. Already, former President Donald J. Trump, the Republican candidate, is talking about the Fed regularly from the campaign trail.

Mr. Trump has implied and said that it would be political for the Fed to cut interest rates in the run-up to the election, suggesting that doing so would help incumbent Democrats. Mr. Trump himself regularly pushed for lower interest rates as president, and he has recently asserted that presidents should have a say in Fed policy before backpedaling from that assertion.

Fed officials insist that they do not pay attention to politics when they are setting interest rates.

Instead, they focus on what is happening in the economy.

In recent months, data have suggested that they are making progress toward their big policy goal: Price increases seem to be coming under control. The Consumer Price Index inflation measure has cooled to 2.9 percent as of last month, down sharply from 9.1 percent at its peak in the summer of 2022.

The July reading of the Fed’s preferred inflation measure, the Personal Consumption Expenditures index, will be released next Friday. That, too, has been falling back toward the central bank’s 2 percent inflation goal.

Some economists even think the Fed might be on the verge of nailing a “soft landing,” in which inflation and the economy cool down sustainably without major pain. Mr. Powell voiced optimism about the central bank’s chances during his speech on Friday.

“While the task is not complete, we have made a good deal of progress toward that outcome,” he said.

There’s plenty of reason for hope. Even as inflation moderates, growth and consumer spending have remained solid. While shoppers have become pickier and more sensitive to prices, they are still opening their wallets.

But at the same time, serious risks have begun to appear. The job market is a pivotal barometer of the strength of the overall economy, so its recent weakness was concerning, especially given that survey data also suggests that labor conditions are deteriorating.

While the weakness in the July report may have been driven by a hurricane and other weather events, it has left officials on edge, warily awaiting the next report on Sept. 6.

The unemployment rate is “still low by historical standards, but almost a full percentage point above its level in early 2023,” Mr. Powell said on Friday, noting also that the increase was mainly coming as hiring slowed and new applicants took time to land work — not as people lost jobs. “Even so, the cooling in labor market conditions is unmistakable.”

Even as he voiced caution, Mr. Powell also used his speech to review how far the Fed has come in its inflation fight. He noted that the Fed thought that inflation would fade quickly in 2021, when it first took off. Back then, Fed officials often called inflation “transitory,” something they have been widely criticized for in the time since.

“The good ship Transitory was a crowded one, with most mainstream analysts and advanced-economy central bankers on board,” Mr. Powell said, defending the central bank’s stance.

When price increases did not fade, the Fed reacted by jerking rates higher in 2022, and Mr. Powell warned that economic pain might result. Many economists thought a recession was all but assured.

With inflation now fading in earnest, though, a more benign possibility — one in which the economy simply settles back into a normal pattern — has come into view.

“High inflation triggered stress and a sense of unfairness that linger today,” Mr. Powell acknowledged. But he later added that Fed officials “did not flinch from carrying out our responsibilities, and our actions forcefully demonstrated our commitment to restoring price stability.”

Jeanna Smialek covers the Federal Reserve and the economy for The Times from Washington. More about Jeanna Smialek