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8 Best RV Travel Trailers for Full-Time RV Living Adventure in 2024

• Last Updated: August 23, 2024
• 25 minutes read

Selecting the right travel trailer for full-time living can be an overwhelming decision.

Yet, after rigorously testing over thirty models myself, focusing on comfort, durability, and practicality, I’ve come to find that not all RVs are cut out for the lifestyle.

Finding an RV that can truly be called a home is key for those looking to transition into full-time RV living .

Some crucial factors include space, amenities, and how well they can support the everyday needs of full-time dwellers, from solo adventurers to families .

Out of the many I explored, the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS stood out for its exceptional balance of comfort, functionality, and mobility, making it my top pick for the best overall travel trailer for this purpose.

It’s a prime example of how a thoughtful layout and design can make a space feel like a true home on wheels.

Based on my experience, the top travel trailers for full-time living are:

• Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS : Best overall for full-time living with its compact efficiency.
• Grand Design – Imagine XLS 22RBE : Great for couples seeking comfort and luxury on the road.
• Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS : Ideal for families, offering spacious living and sleeping areas.
• Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office : Perfect for remote workers, featuring a dedicated office space.
• Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH : Top choice for entertainment, featuring multiple TVs and spacious seating areas.
• Coachmen – Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS : Excellent for larger families, with generous living spaces and multiple bedrooms.
• Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 Toy Hauler Travel Trailer : Best for adventure lovers, with ample storage for outdoor gear.
• Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS Destination Travel Trailer : A fantastic option for those preferring stationary living with the comforts of a full-size home.

IN THIS ARTICLE

What to Look for in a Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living

Your preferred travel and lifestyle are going to be the biggest factor that determines the features you prioritize in a travel trailer for full-time living.

When shopping for the model that suits your family best, consider the following factors.

Where You Will Stay

Are you the type of person/family that likes to stay in well-appointed RV parks with tons of resources available, or do you love to boondock off the grid for several days at a time.

If you do love to dry camp, then you’ll want to prioritize a travel trailer with large waste and fresh water storage tanks.

You might want to also move things like a generator or solar panels higher up your list of priorities as well. 

Size & Floorplan

What this ultimately comes down to is just how many people will be living full-time in the travel trailer.

If it’s just you enjoying the open road with perhaps a four-legged best friend for companionship, you might lean more toward a travel trailer that’s under 20 feet long, and has one very well-decked-out master suite.

On the other end of the spectrum, a traveling family with two small children might prioritize a travel trailer over 25 feet with a master suite in the front, bunk beds in the back, and a large dinette area for mealtimes.

Power slide-outs can also buy you more precious interior living space as well. 

Length of Stay

Just how long you will stay in one spot might also be a factor. If you will be moving around every week or two, then a travel trailer that hooks up easily and deploys an awning with ease might be a preference.

If you are planning to set up camp and put your feet up for months at a time at the family lake lot, then a destination travel trailer that steps out onto a prepared deck space might top your priority list. 

Where You’ll Be Staying & HVAC

If you plan to live in the sunbelt 12-months out of the year, then a travel trailer with a robust rooftop air conditioner will be a priority.

If you are a tradesman who lives in his travel trailer on remote job sites during the summer but wants to live on the ice fishing all winter, then insulation and a powerful furnace will top your list. 

Payload Cargo Capacity

Since you will be living in it full time, you will likely need to haul more gear and personal effects to maintain your preferred lifestyle full time.

To spare you from living a Spartan existence, you might want to prioritize travel trailers with an above-average payload or cargo capacity. 

If you are going to be towing your full-time travel trailer a lot, then you want to put extra scrutiny into the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) compared to the maximum towing capacity of your intended tow vehicle.

Ideally, you want the GVWR to be 80% or less than the pickup truck’s GVWR to keep from constantly straining the tow vehicle with all the journey’s from Point A to Point B and Point C.

The gross weight becomes less of a factor if you are going to do something like park a travel trailer at the family lake lot and leave it there year-round. 

Key Travel Trailer Appliances for Full-Time Living

People who live full-time in their travel trailers tend to place a higher priority on certain appliances compared to people who just want to camp in their travel trailers.

This makes appliance choices their own separate category to factor into your traveling lifestyle. 

Washer & Dryer Prep

Most people who live in their travel trailer full time bemoan having to take time out to sit in a laundromat.

If this sounds like you, then you might want to prioritize a model that either has a washer & dryer included in the purchase or comes prepped to have one installed. 

In the same vein as laundry, washing the dishes can be a real pain. Especially if you fall in love with a travel trailer that has a small sink or a single basin sink in the kitchen.

A high-efficiency dishwasher will use only a small amount of water while cleaning the dishes and sparing you a lot of elbow grease.

It also frees up precious counter space that might otherwise be lost to an unsightly dish drainer. 

Large House Batteries

If you are going to be staying off the grid for even a short amount of time, you will likely need to rely heavily on your RV’s house batteries.

A larger battery bank will hold more charge, while also giving you the opportunity to parallel wire them for a longer run time between recharging. 

Generator Prep

While most travel trailers don’t come with a built-in generator, there is a fair number that does .

This is a great way to power your travel trailer when you are camping off the grid, or simply staying at an RV park that doesn’t have compatible shore power available. 

Optional Solar Power

Solar panels are a great way to recharge or maintain the charge on house batteries.

They can also be a great way to save money on the cost of electricity when you are at a campsite that offers shore power.

You ultimately end up paying far less per unit for solar in the long run than you pay per unit when plugged into an RV park’s resources. 

9 Great Travel Trailers For Full-Time RV Living

1. winnebago micro minnie 2108ds.

• MSRP around $31,000
• Length of 22.42 ft.
• Dry Weight of 4,140 lbs.
• GVWR of 7,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 410 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 31.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 4 people
• 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner
• 18,000 BTU heater

Winnebago is one of the most popular RV manufacturers of all time, and the Minnie travel trailer is one of their most popular platforms.

So, it only stands to reason that they would make a model that is geared toward an individual or couple who loves full-timing like you see with the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS.

With an MSRP of around $31,000, it is one of the most affordable options on this list. This makes for easy financing.

Its overall popularity also means that dealerships are likely to have a wide range of optional upgrades for you to customize the creature comforts to your travel style. 

The interior of the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS has a sofa that converts into a queen-size murphy bed with his and hers wardrobes on each side.

This gives you a couch to lounge on during the day and a bed, all in the same area to save space.

If one of you wants to stay up late, there’s a privacy curtain that can be drawn to enclose the front master suite. 

In the back, you will find a spacious full-size bathroom to meet all your full-timing needs. The shower is separated from the toilet and the rest of the bathroom to give you a true dry bath. 

The towing statistics are another nice thing to appreciate about the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS.

It has a dry weight of 4,140-pounds, which is well within the range of what a robust mid-size SUV with a towing package can handle. This saves you having to invest in a half-ton truck tow vehicle. 

Just keep in mind that the Minnie’s massive cargo capacity means that you can potentially stuff it with so much gear that it will tip the scales with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating of up to 7,000-pounds.

So, keep your equipment and packing style in mind when you are choosing the right tow vehicle to pair this travel trailer with. 

2. Grand Design – Imagine XLS 22RBE

• MSRP around $30,000
• Length of 25.92 ft.
• Dry Weight of 5,125 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,870 lbs.
• GVWR of 6,995 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 497 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 43.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 82.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 37.0 gallons
• 25,000 BTU heater
• 18 Gallon Water Heater
• Four Season Protection Package

The MSRP of $30,000 for the Grand Design – Imagine XLS 22RBE is just one of the many impressive factors that make this travel trailer a good choice for full-time living..

With a gross vehicle weight rating of under 7,000-pounds, it is comfortably towable by a half-ton pickup truck or a full-size SUV.

The floorplan is also very appealing for a single person or a couple who wants to live in their travel trailer full-time. 

One of the major things that jump off the page with the Grand Design Imagine XLS is the Four Season Protection Package.

This makes it one of the best travel trailers for full-time living for a couple or a small family that needs to handle everything the four seasons can throw at them.

It includes key features like an upgraded 25,000 BTU High-Capacity Furnace, Heated & Enclosed Underbelly with Suspended Tanks to prevent freeze-ups, as well as a heat ducted floor and residential grade ventilation system throughout. Even the roof and front cap offer superior R-40 insulation. 

When you take a closer look at the interior layout you find a queen-size master suite in that well-insulated front nose cap to keep you and perhaps a spouse toasty warm on a cold winter night.

A single power slide-out section expands the available floor space in the open concept living area to give you a truly homey feel.

The exterior of the Grand Design Imagine XLS also has a lot of the touches that help transform a travel trailer into a home.

The 18-foot awning expands to give you an outdoor porch area with plenty of elbow room.

There’s also an unobstructed pass-thru storage bin to let you conveniently stow all your outdoor gear, to keep from tracking dirty inside.

There’s even an LP quick connect for your favorite gas grill and a retractable spray nozzle hose to rinse off the dog.

These exterior creature comforts go a long way toward feeling like you are “Living” instead of “Camping.”

3. Coachmen Apex 284BHSS

• MSRP around $50,000
• Length of 32.58 ft.
• Dry Weight of 6,022 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,578 lbs.
• GVWR of 7,600 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 810 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 50.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 70.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 35.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 10 people

With its queen-size master suite in the front, bunk beds in the back, and a ton of creature comforts the Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS is one of the best travel trailers for full-time living to meet a family’s needs.

The bunk beds in the back are great for school-age children, but also big enough to accommodate a teenager’s needs and give them a place to feel is truly their own. 

The MSRP of the Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS ranges around $50,000, though there are a fair number of national dealerships who are willing to offer promotional sales, or will wrap optional extra’s into the initial purchase price. 

It’s when you turn your eye to the weight and storage statistics that things start to get interesting with this full-time-capable travel trailer.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of 7,600-pounds, it is comfortably within the range of what you can pull with a half-ton pickup truck or a full-size SUV.

This spares you from having to invest in a larger vehicle to tow it, which makes it appealing to traveling families who are on the go. 

The large power slide-out section of the Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS gives it a lot of interior living space.

It gives you enough elbow room to let everyone feel like they have their own area.

It also makes the most out of the open concept living room and kitchen combo to feel like a real “Home.” The bathroom in the back even has a basin deep enough to bathe a young child. 

If there is a minor complaint about this family-friendly travel trailer for full-time living it’s the lack of any sort of washer & dryer prep.

If you are okay with spending a few extra hours each week at a laundromat, this isn’t a big deal. 

4. Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office

• MSRP around $110,000
• Length of 30.83 ft.
• Dry Weight of 6,757 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 2,043 lbs.
• GVWR of 8,800 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 903 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 52.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 41.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 6 people
• 28,500 BTU Air Conditioner
• 30,000 BTU heater
• Tankless Water Heater

Airstream is the classic American travel trailer, and one of the most popular travel trailer brands embraced by full-timers of yesteryear as well as today.

The problem is that their “Classic” model tends to have a price tag based on brand recognition, while also feeling like they skimped a little on modern amenities to preserve that “Classic” feel. 

That is where the Flying Cloud travel trailer comes perfectly into play. It has all the look and feels of a Classic Airstream travel trailer, though it carries a price tag of around $110,000 instead of $160,000.

There are 15 different floorplans available, though we chose the Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office for its ability to appeal to a traveling tradesmen, or a job site supervisor who needs to stay in comfort while living on a remote job site. 

When you look at it from the outside, you will see all the signature gleam and aerodynamic shapes of a classic Airstream travel trailer.

When you step on the inside, you find a modernized travel trailer with a lot of creature comforts and innovation.

This includes things like a tankless water heater for on-demand hot water, a large bathroom, and a lounge area that separates itself from the front bedroom. 

In the back, there is also a small, yet functional office. It’s the perfect place for a foreman or job site supervisor to take care of the paperwork and keep important documents in one orderly place. 

When it comes to the towing statistics, the GVWR of 8,800-pounds and the heavy Hitch Weight of 903-pounds means that the Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office is better suited to being towed by a three-quarter or one-ton pickup truck.

This is the typical pickup truck you see a lot of “Bosses” having at construction sites, to begin with.

Though it might put this travel trailer out of your range if you already have a half-ton pickup truck that you love. 

5. Palomino Solaire 320 TSBH

• Length of 36.25 ft.
• Dry Weight of 7,958 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,865 lbs.
• GVWR of 9,825 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,085 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 44.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 98.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• 13,500 BTU Air Conditioner
• Washer & Dryer Prep (Optional)

The Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH is a relatively heavy 36-foot travel trailer with all the comforts of home and then some.

While it can technically sleep up to 10 people on paper, it is arguably better suited for a couple or retirees who want to have the grandkids come to stay for a weekend. 

The master suite is one of the things that jumps off the page right away.

It has a true king-size bed built into one of the three slide-out sections, with floor space for two people to walk around. This is rare in a lot of front-mounted king-size master suites. 

The other thing to like is the corner closet that comes with washer & dryer prep. A dealership will have affordable stackable models for you to choose from, which lets you save time and money, without having to go to a local laundromat.

Palomino also made sure to build this version of the Solaire with a large enough gray water tank to handle the washing machine water, which isn’t always the case with the competitors. 

A large slide-out at midship gives expands the livable space for the open concept kitchen and living room.

It has a comfortable sofa, a cozy dinette, and a large entertainment center just like you would expect in a brick & mortar home. 

The rear of the Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH has a separate small living room area with its own entertainment center.

There’s also a sofa sleeper with a fold-out bunk. This gives teenagers or visiting family members their own living space. 

The exterior of the Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH is also well-appointed with the creature comforts of a home on the road.

The 21-foot awning gives you a huge sitting area out of the sun. There’s also a large outdoor kitchen area with a refrigerator and sink to replicate the feeling of a grill on your back deck. 

6. Coachmen Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS

• MSRP around $52,000
• Length of 38.5 ft.
• Dry Weight of 8,620 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 2,180 lbs.
• GVWR of 10,800 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,252 lbs.
• 35,0000 BTU furnace

The Coachmen – Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS is another travel trailer set up for full-timing that includes a washer and dryer prep.

Adding a stackable unit saves you a lot of money in laundromat costs, without taking up a lot of space in the queen-size master suite’s corner closet.

Though this isn’t the only way in which this well-appointed travel trailer feels like a “Home” instead of a “Camper.” 

When you step into the bathroom you are treated to the kind to the kind of quality features you want to live with.

This includes things like a large shower with a true glass door instead of plastic, as well as a large RV toilet and a deep basin sink. 

The rear of the Coachmen – Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS is essentially a separate living room with an entertainment center and a comfortable couch.

If your children or your grandchildren want to visit for a weekend the entire rear transforms into a comfortable guest bedroom without robbing you of any of the living space in the midship open concept kitchen and family room. 

When you step outside you’ll also find a lot of like-home convenience features.

Including an outdoor camper kitchen and a rear bumper gear rack for things like mountain bikes or hanging outdoor clothes. Not to mention a large pass-thru exterior storage bay. 

All this comes with an impressively comfortable MSRP of $52,000 new. Though the gross weight of nearly 11,000-pounds does mean that you will need at least a three-quarter-ton pickup truck to tow it.

If you are going to be moving around a lot you might want to lean toward a one-tone truck for your tow vehicle. If you don’t already have one, this can factor into the overall cost of ownership. 

7. Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 Toy Hauler Travel Trailer

• MSRP around $64,000
• Length of 33.5 ft.
• Dry Weight of 7,860 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 3,546 lbs.
• GVWR of 11,406 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,206 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 100.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 76.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 38.0 gallons
• 40,0000 BTU furnace

The Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 is a toy hauler travel trailer that is nicely geared for a couple or a small family that loves full-time living.

Yet it is also geared to let you live in comfort when you want to take your travel trailer home off the grid for a week or so of boondocking. 

The MSRP of the Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 is also very friendly for a toy hauler travel trailer.

It only costs around $64,000 totally loaded and ready to pull off the dealership’s lot.

Though the gross vehicle weight rating does push the limit of what a half-ton pickup truck can safely pull when it’s fully loaded.

If you don’t already have a three-quarter-ton truck to pull it, you will need to factor that into the overall cost of ownership. 

The living and sleeping accommodations in this toy hauler travel trailer are the definition of the word “Spacious.”

You see this with the truly king-size master suite in the front with enough room on each side of the bed for his and hers nightstands, and wardrobe closets.

There’s also enough floor space to dress and walk around easily, which isn’t always the case with a lot of other master suites that basically jam a king-size bed into the bedroom. 

The large power slide-out section adds to the overall floor space that flows through to the kitchen.

It houses a family-size dinette as well as a comfortable jack knife sofa that feels like a true living room, as it faces the entertainment center and pantry. 

The rear cargo area garage is large enough, and the payload capacity is high enough to easily hold an ATV, golf cart, or UTV.

Though it is much more than that. When you pull your “Toys” out the rear ramp converts into an outdoor porch or deck where you can sit back and enjoy a pleasant summer evening, just like you would on your deck at home. 

The Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 is a great option for couples who like to spend the summer “Hosting” a private campground or contract operating a primitive campground for the forest service.

You can set it up as a seasonal home in the summer, with a golf cart or ATV to let you patrol the campground. Then it packs up to let you head south before the snow flies. 

8. Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS Destination Trailer

• MSRP around $56,000
• Length of 41.3 ft.
• Dry Weight of 11,825 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,825 lbs.
• GVWR of 13,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,495 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 38.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 71.5 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 39.0 gallons

While destination travel trailers like the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS are truly mobile, they are geared more for families who want to park up their travel trailers for months if not years at a time.

You see this in the signature large sliding glass door that is intended to step out onto a semi-permanent deck.

It makes this a great travel trailer for full-time living at the family lake lot or your own private retirement village. 

For all the comfort and luxury you get the MSRP of the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS is a very friendly $56,000.

Though this doesn’t include the cost of some of the optional extras like the washer & dryer prep in the spacious master bath. 

Where you want to keep this destination travel trailer and how often you want to move it can be a factor in the overall cost of ownership.

With a gross weight of 13,000-pounds and a hitch weight of nearly 1,500-pounds, you will need a three-quarter to a one-ton pickup truck to safely tow it.

If you are planning to park it at a seasonal or long-term campsite, then this is a non-factor.

If you are going to move it around every month or two, then you will need to factor in the tow vehicle cost or the cost to hire a tow company to move it for you. 

The interior of the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS is well appointed and designed to be a true home for a couple or a small family who wants a weekend retreat that is ready 24/7/365 days a year.

It has a comfortable queen-size master suite in the front with tons of storage.

A spacious master bath, and an open concept kitchen, and a living room with an entertainment center that houses a 40-inch flatscreen TV. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get homeowner’s insurance on a full-time travel trailer.

If you are living in your travel trailer full-time you need to carry comprehensive full coverage, which will replicate the coverage you would get in a brick & mortar homeowner’s insurance policy.

Though with so many people turning to full-timing in their RV, insurance providers are becoming more willing to consider homeowner’s insurance for travel trailers. Though conditions may vary. 

How Much Does It Cost To Insure A Travel Trailer For Full-Time Living?

Comprehensive coverage for a travel trailer will average between $1,000 to $2,000 a year and will be influenced by the MSPR as well as the current value.

Many insurance providers will offer additional coverage options for high-value items that you keep full-time in your travel trailer.

How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Travel Trailer?

If you don’t want to make a major investment in a large pickup truck just to tow your travel trailer every few months, you can usually hire a towing service for around $3.30 per mile within 100 to 250 miles.

Beyond 250 miles, you might want to consider “Shipping” your travel trailer on a flat-bed semi-truck, which could cost as low as $1.25 per mile. 

Full-timing in a travel trailer is an increasingly popular trend that has many people enjoying life without all the hassles of taking care of a yard or being forced to deal with the same old neighbors.

It’s also a great way for couples and retirees to enjoy life in some exotic locations, without the exorbitant costs of investing in a traditional timeshare. 

The type of travel trailer that’s been for you to live in full-time will vary depending on the size of your family as well as your travel style.

You will also need to factor in the cost to tow it or the investment in a tow vehicle for some of the larger models. 

If you are a tradesman or project supervisor at a remote job site, then the Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office might be the best travel trailer for full-time living to meet your needs.

It has Airstream’s classic look at a more reasonable purchase price than the “Classic.” It also has great living accommodations and an office for all your important papers in the rear. 

If you are looking to retire to the family lake lot, or you don’t have intentions of moving around a lot, then a destination travel trailer like the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS might be the best option to meet your lifestyle.

It has a sliding glass door that lets you step out onto a separate deck, as well as the master suite and well-appointed living room that a couple needs to feel truly at home. 

If you love to bring a runabout golf cart or ATV with you, and you want to bask in a pleasant evening on the porch then a toy hauler travel trailer like the Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 might be perfect for full-timing.

It lets you bring your toys with you from campsite to campsite, then transforms the rear into a spacious back deck.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Not sure why out of all of the awesome choices made by Grand Design and Winnebago you picked their smallest and least luxurious models. It almost seems like you skewed the choices so people would naturally gravitate towards the larger ones you offered. Not sure anyone wants to full-time in an Imagine XLS or Micro-minnie unless they have a smaller Truck and can’t pull something larger. Those two models are suited for Non full-time people in my opinion.

James Lehman

This is by far the most useful and concise article about travel trailers I’ve ever read. You really chose a percise and well-rounded list. Thank you for posting it.

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8 Best Travel Trailers For Full-Time Living

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Susan and I considered selling our Class C RV and living full-time in a travel trailer. Our plan was to buy a trailer we could tow with my 2015 Toyota Tacoma. We ended up purchasing a Class A motorhome, but we were close to pulling the trigger on a new travel trailer.

Susan owned a Trail Lite travel trailer for about ten years, so she had some great insights that helped us decide. We will share her experience throughout the article.

Living in a travel trailer full-time probably seems like an interesting and attractive concept for those new to the RV lifestyle. However, it does come with some caveats and unique advantages that are often overlooked.

One thing is for sure: a full-time lifestyle on the road is more difficult than it looks on paper. It seems like the least expensive option compared to living at a traditional, residential address. It also looks so simple. After all, how hard is it to haul up stakes and move around the country any time you wish?

For those who lack the experience, it’s easy to overlook the advantages of portable power, and the disadvantages of fuel consumption or campground costs. In short, much more goes into living in a travel trailer full-time, and your best ally will always be knowledge and the wisdom that comes with hitting the road.

Can You Live Full-Time In a Travel Trailer?

You can live in a travel trailer full-time. After all, people do it in campervans, often turning their entire experience into a video content creation gig. If you ever sit down and watch some of these life-on-the-road stories, there are some concessions that these RVers have to make.

There is also a degree of freedom you simply can’t find anywhere else. If people can make it work in campervans, surely they can do the same in travel trailers. Right? Well, there are some parallels and differences worth noting, but the point remains the same: you can live full-time in a travel trailer as long as you’re ready for a more significant lifestyle change than you might imagine.

Unlike a traditional home, a travel trailer generally requires more routine maintenance, a break-in period, and the occasional major repair. Individually, these issues are not as expensive as a major A/C repair at a residential home.

However, they add up. In a nutshell, there are hundreds of small gains and losses that come with living in a travel trailer full-time. The good news is, that there are several travel trailers out there that are exceptional and tailor-made for life on the road, mitigating those disadvantages while bolstering the advantages.

If you’re planning on extensive boondocking or living off-grid, the dynamics change to a large degree. You’ll be far more dependent on the portable power capabilities of your RV, such as solar panels, propane, generators, inverters, etc. But it can be done, with the proper setup and some trial and error.

Some are large and some are smaller, but these travel trailer floorplans are designed to maximize comfort and accommodate a mobile, traveling lifestyle for families large and small.

1. Jayco Eagle 312BHOK

Our Pros and Cons

✅ Perfect for kids or guests because of its private, secondary (guest) room

⛔ Entertainment center is located where the open door or kitchen activity will block

• Length:  38′ 9″
• UVW:  9,870 lbs
• GVWR:  11,400 lbs
• CCC:  1,630 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,350 lbs
• Sleeps:  10

Living in this travel trailer full-time would be a breeze. The Jayco Eagle 312BHOK is known for being an incredibly spacious option. It has more of a 5th-wheel feel to it than some 5th-wheels. One of the best parts is the private bedroom in the back, which includes a bunk bed and another bunk over a tri-fold sofa.

The kitchen is enormous, though the only true counter space is on the island. A second tri-fold sofa sits across from a sizeable entertainment center and fireplace. The bathroom is large enough to accommodate most and the queen bed leaves plenty of walk-around space, along with dual wardrobes and a washer/dryer prep area.

2. Heartland Mallard 335

✅ Very large hidden storage area behind the TV, plus extra storage everywhere

⛔ Carpeted slides

• Length:  39.7′
• UVW: 8,840 lbs
• GVWR:  9,900 lbs
• CCC:  1,028 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  780 lbs
• Sleeps:  4

The Heartland Mallard 335 is a mid-tier travel trailer that is more than capable of being a full-time RV, depending on where you are. As a three-season RV, you don’t want to winter in north Minnesota. The glass-top, three-burner stove is surrounded by a sizeable kitchen and an island with a large sink.

If you happen to be in a cold area, the 5200 BTU fireplace will help knock the chill out of the room. There aren’t many sleeping options here, but the sofa is a sleeper option for guests. The free-standing dinette with a fold-up leaf option helps with that as well.

3. Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Office

✅ The star of the show: large corner office area with all the amenities needed for remote work

⛔ TV is in an awkward position

• Length:  31′ 2″
• UVW:  6,804 lbs
• GVWR:  8,800 lbs
• CCC:  1,996 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  814 lbs
• Sleeps:  6

Out of all the travel trailers for full-time living on our list, the Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Office is the purest. Thanks to a full-fledged office in the back, this travel trailer offers life and work on the road, simplifying an aspect we all have to deal with—making a paycheck. The office isn’t just an afterthought add-on either. It’s well-made, spacious, and comfy.

As an added bonus, it’s a classic Airstream, with all of the gleaming, interior brilliance you expect from an all-aluminum travel trailer. The large interior has enough sleeping real estate to accommodate 6 people, so it’s more than enough for a mid-size family or hosting family members and guests.

4. Grand Design Reflection 312BHTS

✅ Large, private room with TV prep, wardrobe, bunks, and a tri-fold sofa

⛔ Leaf spring suspension system

• Length:  37′ 4″
• UVW:  9,291 lbs
• GVWR:  11,295 lbs
• CCC:  2,004 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  995 lbs

The second travel trailer on the list that has a massive sleep capacity is the Grand Design Reflection 312BHTS . With enough room to sleep 10, this travel trailer is perfect for a full-time, on-the-go lifestyle with family members, guests, or friends in tow. The theater seating is an optional toss-up between it and a tri-fold sofa, depending on your personal preference.

The private rear bedroom has opposing bunks with TV prep. It’s also easy enough to convert into a remote working space. If you decide to do that, you’ll have an enormous workspace for a travel trailer. For pet lovers, the 312BHTS is ideal, as it includes an exterior leash hitch for the times you need to stay in a campground.

5. Living Vehicle HD30

✅ Massive off-grid setup that heavily caters to luxury off-grid or boondocking lifestyles

⛔ You get a full-fledged, residential-style home…for a price

• Length:  30′
• UVW:  14,000 to 16,000 lbs
• GVWR:  18,000 to 20,000 lbs
• CCC:  4,000 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,400 to 1,600 lbs
• Sleeps:  4 to 8

The Living Vehicle HD30 welds together the RV, on-the-road lifestyle with residential home living, while also offering one of the most robust power packages on the planet. This is a travel trailer for full-time living at a steep price. It makes sense when you see what this beast has to offer, which is just about everything you can imagine in a traditional home.

You get enough solar to produce 6kW of power, along with a 72kWh lithium battery and a backup generator. There’s enough portable, green energy flowing into the Living Vehicle to charge every device you’ve ever owned in your life, including an EV. That’s a lot of juice, so boondocking and extensive off-grid living are in the cards for anyone willing to pick one of these up.

6. Forest River Alpha Wolf 23LDE-L

✅ Massive awning over a dual-entry setup offers a ton of shade for outdoor activities

⛔ Toilet is at an awkward angle, leaving little in the way of leg space (watch your knees!)

• Length:  28.8′
• UVW:  5,608 lbs
• GVWR:  7,770 lbs
• CCC:  2,162 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  770 lbs

To flip the script a little bit, it’s important to include some of the smaller travel trailers too. Remember, people live on the road in campervans, so even a smaller travel trailer, like the Forest River Alpha Wolf 23LDE-L , has a surprising amount of potential. With over a ton of CCC, this travel trailer offers a lot of storage in the form of drawers, cabinets, and hidden storage.

The rear kitchen is an excellent design decision since it removes obstacles in the center of the RV and allows for more counter space in the back. The pass-through bathroom may be split, but it expands the spacious feel even more. You can also take advantage of a large pantry, theater seating, and a huge dinette with its own set of extra drawers.

7. Black Series HQ21 Balcony

✅ x4 AGM 100Ah batteries, x2 flexible solar panels, and a 2k-watt pure sine wave inverter are standard

⛔ The Black Series HQ21 has a low sleeping capacity—best for couples, rather than families

• Length:  27′
• UVW:  6,733 lbs
• GVWR:  10,000 lbs
• CCC:  3,277 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,000 lbs
• Sleeps:  3

Comparable to the Living House, in terms of raw, green energy potential, the Black Series HQ21 Balcony is more than capable of taking you off the grid when and where you want. You can also stay off-grid. The HQ21 is the kind of travel trailer that makes full-time living so much easier, thanks to its robust power infrastructure and design features.

It’s built tough, with diamond plating, a premium suspension system, 16″ off-road wheels, and a 360° jockey wheel hitch. You also get four 100Ah AGMs, a 2k-watt pure sine inverter, an Anderson plug, and two large, flexible solar panels. The HQ21, along with the other Black Series options, are state-of-the-art, and tailor-made for disappearing into the wild unknown.

8. Keystone Bullet 330BHS

✅ Includes a bath and a half with one being a part of the private bedroom in the back

• Length:  37′ 7″
• UVW:  7,278 lbs
• GVWR:  8,600 lbs
• CCC:  1,322 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  800 lbs

Yet another 10-sleeper, the Keystone Bullet 330BHS travel trailer is a full-time champion for life on the road. It includes a very large, private bunkhouse with double-over-double bunks, TV prep, and multiple wardrobes. On the other side of the wall is an exterior kitchen with a two-burner stove, fridge, cabinets, and drawers.

The base model comes with a tri-fold sofa, but if you enjoy family movie nights, you can opt for the luxury cinema recliners, which are fantastic and comfortable to boot. Another major and very welcome feature is the bath and a half. The kids or guests have their own bathroom while you have yours.

9. East to West Alta 3100KXT

✅ Nifty washer/dryer prep behind TV and next to double-over-double bunks

⛔ Lone bathroom is in the back

• Length:  35′ 6″
• UVW:  8,830 lbs
• GVWR:  11,605 lbs
• CCC:  2,775 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,205 lbs
• Sleeps:  8

The last travel trailer for full-time living is the East to West Alta 3100KXT . The interior aesthetic on this one is maybe one of the best of the bunch, with the possible exception of the Living Vehicle. The long cabinets with dark glass contrast well with the cream and tan interior.

Capable of sleeping 8, there’s plenty of room for families or guests throughout, with double-over-double bunks in the back and a somewhat sizeable corner bathroom. With plenty of space and a king bed up front, it’s hard to argue with the seriously attractive qualities of this large travel trailer .

Is Full-Time RV Living Doable in 2024?

The answer to living in a travel trailer, full-time, in 2024, is mostly a matter of personal wants and preferences. Just like anything else in life, there are ways to save or blow money while living in an RV. There are a lot of things you have to consider.

• Where do you plan on going and staying?
• Accumulation of costs, such as campgrounds, fuel, food, accommodations, and activities
• Maintenance and potential repair costs
• You’re remote working status and capability
• General living expenses
• The unknowns

The unknowns are general things that people rarely account for—the sudden, surprise expenses that almost always seem to catch us off-guard. While full-time RV living is certainly doable in 2024, you should make out a list, carefully tailor it to your needs and potential setbacks, and match it with your income.

Are Travel Trailers Easier To Tow Than 5th-Wheels?

Travel trailers are mostly more difficult to tow than 5th wheels. For the most part, 5th-wheels are larger and heavier. However, due to the hitch connecting in the bed of your truck, maneuverability and turn radius are much improved over the travel trailer.

Travel trailers also experience more sway again, thanks to the hitch style. This is especially true when handling some of the larger travel trailers, some of which are on this list. Smaller travel trailers, like the Black Series HQ21, are easier to handle but still won’t trump a 5th-wheel of similar size or larger.

The only area where a travel trailer might have an edge on a 5th-wheel, in terms of driveability or maneuverability, is when you’re reversing. Otherwise, the center of mass when towing a 5th wheel, is closer to the driver, making a 5th-wheel the easier towing option in most scenarios.

The only thing you might miss out on is less space in your truck bed. However, most 5th wheels have a very solid cargo-carrying capacity, so you can make up for it that way.

Are Travel Trailers 4-Season?

Some travel trailers are four season, and if you want one with full-time living capability in a northern climate, you’ll be glad of it. For instance, the Oliver is a smaller travel trailer built for all climates, with plumbing lines between the inner and outer shells, double-hull fiberglass insulation, ducted furnaces, and dual-propane tanks.

If you’re looking for a larger option, the massive, unique-looking KZ Sportsmen Destination is an option. Ice Castle Fish Houses are wholly unique and easily four-season capable. In the meantime, Heartland, Lance, Jayco, and Keystone all make four-season travel trailers.

If you’re on the lookout for a four-season travel trailer, you should keep a keen eye out for the above-mentioned features, as well as enclosed and heated underbellies, premium insulation infrastructure, room for extra propane, and heated, enclosed tanks.

Final Thoughts About Travel Trailers For Full-Time Living

Living in a travel trailer full-time is its own kind of sacrifice. However, that just makes it identical to everything else in life. The difference is, if it’s the lifestyle you want, it’s certainly doable, making the sacrifices worth it, while the gains are exceptional.

The travel trailers on our list are more than capable of accommodating your or your family’s desire to hit the road and see the country, with little regard towards setting down roots and remaining stationary. If you want to live the experience of a lifetime, make one of these travel trailers your own, and ride out into the sunset.

Related Reading:

– 10 Largest and Longest Travel Trailers for 2024 – 14 Best Travel Trailers With Murphy Beds – Are Fiberglass Campers Better Than Aluminum? – 12 Best Camper Trailers Under 25 Feet: 2024 Models

About the Author:

Thomas Godwin is a full-time freelance writer with a BFA in Creative Writing, a U.S. Marine, and an avid outdoorsman.

When he’s not writing, he’s raising chickens and Appleyard ducks. Thomas also constructs teardrop campers (attempting to anyway) and kayaks the Blackwater River with his wife, two daughters, and his Dobermans.

Recent Posts

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Jeffsetter Travel

Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

9 Best Travel Trailers to Live In Full Time

January 14, 2022 by Charlotte Phillips

Last updated on August 24th, 2023 at 09:29 am

All of our reviews are based on exhaustive research, industry experience and whenever possible, hands-on testing. When you make a purchase using one of our chosen links we’ll receive a small percentage of the proceeds. This supports the site and keeps Jeffsetter running. You can read more here .

If you’re looking for some of the best travel trailers for full-time living, you’re in the right place. Take it from me, a full-timer living in a 19-foot vintage travel trailer with my partner and dog!

While you may not want to live in a travel trailer as small as mine , there’s no reason why you can’t live full-time in an RV. Life on the road is becoming increasingly popular among many different individuals. Many people do it, whether you’re a young freelancer, retired camping enthusiast, or want to get involved in your local parks system.

Let’s learn about everything you need to know about full-time RV living before we dive into some of the best rigs out there for your lifestyle change. But if you want to skip ahead and just see which travel trailers make the list, you can use the table of contents below or check out this video:

9 Best Travel Trailers To Live In Full Time

Ready to check out the 9 best travel trailers to live in full-time? Here are my top picks for rigs to suit a range of traveling lifestyles.

Best Overall: Jayco Eagle

With so many Jayco models on the market, there’s no struggle in finding the right rig for full-time life on the road, and the Jayco Eagle is a fantastic option. The Eagle stands out for its luxurious touches, large living areas, and dedication to quality hardware, consistent across all five floorplans. While the Eagle only has five available floor plans, the smallest measures 34′ 10″ in length, and the largest 38′ 9″.

These are pretty mighty lengths, especially for RVing newbies, so it may be worth purchasing a smaller trailer to get comfortable towing rather than dive straight into the deep end with the Jayco Eagle! Substantial length, width, and height in a travel trailer can transform the RV living experience so if you’re a pro-tower, don’t shy away!

I like the variety between the floorplans, some have optional theatre seating, half bathrooms, washer-dryer prep, and even large kitchen islands. Speaking of the kitchen, the Eagle has a lot to offer. With the option of a 21 cubic inch residential fridge, a full range and oven combo, and a kitchen island with a double sink, I’m confident I can whip up any meal in this rig and have the correct equipment and ample preparation space. 

Jayco campers are known for their interiors as well as their quality construction, and the Eagle follows suit with modern, clean finishings. The option of upgrading to a king bed is possible, and I love that even after this upgrade, there’s still plenty of room to sleep guests elsewhere in the travel trailer. AC transforms comfort on the road and living full-time in a home on wheels, it’s essential to think about the struggles each season throughout the year may bring.

Therefore, I find the two ducted AC units to be a very worthwhile addition to the Eagle, allowing me and even more importantly, my dog to stay cool no matter the temperatures of peak summer. This travel trailer is also built to withstand a vast array of weather scenarios, including lightning!

The Jayco Eagle is perfect for solo RVers wanting lots of space, couples hitting the open road together, or even families, thanks to the sheer volume of storage and numerous sleeping arrangements. Jayco rigs are known for being long-lasting, with Amish-built wooden cabinetry, heavy-duty steel framing, and moisture-resistant walls and insulation, I trust Jayco campers to withstand RVing travels from year to year. 

Best For Boondocking: Northwood Arctic Fox North Fork

RVing for me is all about spending as much time in the great outdoors as possible, so having a rig with boondocking capabilities is a must! Northwood’s Arctic Fox North Fork travel trailer. Built for all seasons including cold weather, and various terrain, this travel trailer is ready to go far and wide!  With seven floorplans ranging from 22 feet to 35 feet, it’s easy to find an Arctic Fox to suit the needs of any RVer.

I love having several floorplan options, especially since some layouts offer incredibly spacious kitchen countertops, large walkaround beds, and more for ultimate comfort and functionality. Boondocking ability is high on my list of priorities in any RV I look at, and t his rig was built with off-grid adventuring in mind. Rated for four-season use means no more packing up in winter and waiting for spring to arrive!

Matched with all-terrain tires, a fresh water tank of over 50 gallons, and standard solar power, the Northwood Artic Fox is an off-grid machine! There are additional options available, though these will increase the cost substantially, and since this isn’t the cheapest travel trailer on the market, it’s worth giving any upgrades plenty of thought.

Depending on the layout, it’s potential to add a second AC unit along with more solar panels for enhanced comfort in the height of summer, and more sun-powered electricity generated. There are so many possible upgrades, that it’s hard to keep track and not blow the budget! Other upgrades include an outdoor BBQ grill, a backup camera, holding tank heaters, and even a router.  

The kitchen is where this rig really comes to life. Whether boondocking or not, this kitchen is built for full-time living with solid kitchen countertops throughout, a lovely double sink, a full range and oven combo, and an optional residential fridge.

While not too many boondocking features come standard, I like the ability to truly make this rig exactly what you want, at any size you want . It has a lot to offer, including a comprehensive warranty program for all new travel trailers. Check this one out if you are planning on unplugging while on the road!

Best For Senior Couples: Jayco White Hawk

Boasted as a travel trailer made to bring enriched comfort and connection while on the road, the Jayco White Hawk is an awesome choice for the recently retired or senior-age couple looking to live life in an RV.  There are ten floorplans to discover with the White Hawk, the smallest measuring just over 30′ in length and the largest a substantial 38′. Many floor plans offer an abundance of comfortable seating arrangements and personal touches, such as theatre seating and pull-out sofas or bunk beds for the grandkids.

Jayco rigs are built solid, with Azdel walls and a lightweight sturdy frame. Capable of handling all four seasons, the White Hawk is fit to go with additional fiberglass insulation and underbelly heating for sub-zero winter days. There’s an optional second air conditioner able to be installed to further enhance the weather-ready capability of this trailer, and certain layouts even boast an electric fireplace and entertainment system for family entertainment.

For the more adventurous older couple, there’s an outdoor shower and the option to go off-grid with solar mounting capabilities. The interior offers an abundance of comfort, with adjustable dinette seating as well as accommodating walk-around queen beds so I don’t have to worry about waking my partner when I need the toilet during the night!

I would like to see this Jayco rig with a washer and dryer option to make full-time life on the road a little easier, but since it’s possible to purchase a White Hawk with a 50 amp service, maybe one can be installed post-purchase! This rig has a luxurious kitchen area, complete with multiple prep spaces, a full range, and even a kitchen island although this is floorplan-specific.

For accessibility and ease, this travel trailer can be built out with a self-leveling system and stabilizers which takes any stress away from trying to get this trailer level at the campground. You can also expect the White Hawk to come backed with Jayco’s comprehensive and industry-leading warranty just in case any issues arise while adventuring out in the wilderness with your other half!

Best For Young Couples: Winnebago Voyage

Winner of the 2022 Best Travel Trailer of the Year from RV News, the Winnebago Voyage is perfect for the full-time and adventurous young couple. For starters, this rig is affordable, which is no surprise as Winnebago are renowned for manufacturing rigs that don’t break the bank! There’s no sacrificing on features with the Voyage, and with six floorplans to choose from, ranging from 27′ 11″ to 38′ 11″ finding the best-suited layout is a breeze.

Some of the floor plans include bunkhouse sleeping arrangements capable of sleeping 8 people, which is a game-changer for larger families, or young couples who want to purchase a bigger rig initially to cater for a family in the future. Winnebago packs a lot of RV onto a lightweight frame, with no layouts exceeding a GVWR of 10,000 lbs, making the Voyage a great choice for a range of tow vehicles.

The volume of potential options is a big draw for me, with some including theatre seating, washer and dryer prep, queen walk-around beds with the option to upgrade to a king, and ample storage, both inside and out. All of these features scream full-time living to me, and the spacious kitchen is the cherry on top!

Depending on the floorplan, some layouts have a kitchen island, a large range oven combination, and even the option to upgrade to a residential-sized fridge which is something I’d definitely consider! Having great kitchen appliances and a stunning space to cook really helps with inspiration to cook healthy, vibrant meals to keep energized on the road.

The Voyage also has a lot to offer in terms of small touches. It has outdoor speakers perfect for entertaining, a roof ladder for maintenance, fireplaces, and optional RV stabilizing technology . Figuring out RVing for the first time can be daunting, but comforting touches like these not only bring a bit of luxury but help keep the camping experience as smooth as possible. 

The Voyage allows the young freelancing couple internet access as well, with a rooftop antenna and WiFi prep. I love being able to stay connected, yet also head off-grid in the Winnebago Voyage thanks to the standard solar setup on the roof. Although upgrading some features is arguably one of the best ways to get the most out of the Voyage, this trailer promises not to disappoint the full-time RV-dweller!

Best Off-Grid: Living Vehicle

Let me be the first one to tell you that a Living Vehicle brand travel trailer doesn’t come cheap . In fact, it may end up costing you the same amount as a small single-family home! However, a lot comes at a high price, and I doubt I’d ever go back to traditional living after exploring one of these innovative, forward-thinking rigs. 

All models of Living Vehicle are totally modular, self-sufficient, and technologically advanced. Honestly, I’ve not seen any other rigs like these, and if I had the funds, I’d definitely be investing in one since they have such a low environmental impact and ultimate style. Built for off-grid tech couples or full-time RVers working from their home on wheels, Living Vehicle seem to have thought of everything with their rigs. There’s so much to drool over with this aluminum beauty.

Living Vehicle boasts they built this travel trailer to feel like home, and I think they’ve definitely accomplished this. The four trim choices allow a bit of personalization and the interior features continue to inspire. The spa-style bathroom, fold-down patio space, residential kitchen, and comfortable sleeping areas, all models of Living Vehicle promise to bring tranquility and high-end to the RVing world.

Designed to work off-grid, it’s possible to run the air conditioning all day and night using real-time solar energy thanks to the solar panels on the rig. Living Vehicle don’t just simply manufacture RVs, they create works of art with their campers, and with electric vehicle charging available too, I love that my impact on the natural world can be minimized. 

Living Vehicle boasts multiple modular rooms, including bedrooms able to transform into a mobile office or laundry room, an extendable kitchen deck with a movable kitchen island allowing for outdoor cooking, and much, much more. These rigs are designed for off-roading, four-season living, and keeping connected, regardless of location thanks to Bluetooth and WiFi accessories.  Everything comes standard with this rig, and it should, considering the price!

Best Kitchen: Grand Design Reflection

I see Grand Design rigs often while I camp host, and the Reflection has to be a favorite of many campers. I’m a food lover, and nothing inspires me more than preparing dishes in a stunning kitchen like the one inside the Grand Designs Reflection. There are five floorplans to choose from, and each is well-equipped with all the full-time RV amenities needed for a successful time on the road. 

All of the travel trailer floor plans feature stunning kitchens, outfitted in a modern black and gray finish, which isn’t something I’ve seen much of in many travel trailers. Most of the kitchens include islands, and any floorplans that don’t, still have ample counter space so I don’t feel like I’m missing out on a residential kitchen.

The stunning interior features don’t end with the kitchen, and I expect them to continue since these trailers have a substantial price tag. However, I do love the theatre seating, sofas, electric fireplace inserts, kitchen pantry storage, living room hutch storage, and washer-dryer prep in the master bedroom as they all bring comfort, functionality, and convenience. 

I like the opportunity to add an optional king bed, a second awning, and even dual pane windows to help get the trailer prepared for four-season camping. The additional options don’t stop there, though. The four-season package is something I’d opt for since each year, both winter and summer seem to be getting harsher!

For the price, it would be nice for solar to come standard, but the optional solar package is still a sensible investment for full-timers wanting to off-grid camp from time to time and power appliances.   If you’re looking for a rig to fit guests, there’s a bunkhouse floorplan able to sleep a whole family. You can expect a comprehensive warranty through Grand Design, as they value their customers greatly and are there whenever there’s a bump in the road!

Best With Laundry: Forest River Rockwood Signature

Forest River is a star in the RV world, with a wide variety of popular RV models under their name brand. The Rockwood Signature is no exception, with six floorplans and countless features available, both standard and optional.  The six-floor plans range in length from 29′ 11″ to 36′ 8″ making this Forest River one of the smaller trailers on our list. Having a more compact RV with laundry available is a rare find, and it’s a must for me, living full-time on the road in my travel trailer with a partner and pup! 

All the layouts of the Rockwood signature are fairly unique, with king beds as options and multiple seating and sleeping arrangements possible so the whole family can enjoy this home on wheels. The open floorplans bring such an airy feel to this amper, and the deluxe chef kitchens across all of the various layouts make cooking on the road an absolute dream.

Some models include electric fireplaces and master bedroom televisions, while others boast kitchens with ample countertops and innovative storage solutions. The exterior and interior storage available on these rigs is fantastic for full-timing and brings the kind of organizing needed to live smoothly on the open road.

I like the range of optional features such as the second AC unit and extendable outdoor storage deck as these features would both be fantastic for keeping me and my dog cool during the summer season. A few of the additional features are worth investing in for those looking for a boondocking adventure trailer, but this does bump up the overall cost substantially. However, the complete solar installation on the roof is a great start for remaining powered off the grid.

This rig also has an outdoor kitchen ready to be used and WiFi prep so I can play video games seamlessly in the Rockwood Signature no matter where I’m parked for the next few days. With wardrobe space and optional pantry storage, there’s space for just about everything and then some!

Forest River build durable and long-lasting rigs with fair warranty plans to give customers the peace of mind needed when living in a travel trailer full-time. This RV brand also has a wonderful owner’s club and helpful customer service that are just a call away from offering expert knowledge and advice. 

Most Storage: Airstream Flying Cloud

While the Flying Cloud isn’t Airstream’s largest model, it does boast considerable storage solutions that I wouldn’t first expect from this aluminum rig! From the nose to the rear bumper, that’s a special feeling that comes with towing an Airstream, and the Flying Cloud is a popular choice, favored by many avid RVers. 

The Flying Cloud comes in eight floorplans, ranging from 23 feet to 30 feet, so it’s an awesome option for newbies or those preferring to tow smaller trailers. This rig might not be the biggest for full-time living, but its class and internal features are well worth the investment. Airstream does everything in style, with light wood cabinetry and stainless steel finishes to match the exterior of the rig. There’s storage hidden everywhere, and this is something that makes an enormous difference when living on the road full-time!

There’s a kitchen pantry, under-bed storage, and even exterior storage compartments on top of the various storage areas already throughout the trailer. The convenience doesn’t stop there, however, as the Flying Cloud has a few select floor plans with an innovative exterior hatch opening allowing interior living space to extend outside. This is a huge perk for full-time living as it creates the opportunity to experience the great outdoors from the comfort of the trailer.

The kitchen is well-appointed with a full range and oven combination, along with stainless steel sink and a kitchen island in select floor plans, great for serving up weekend family brunch. Speaking of family, everyone can come along for an adventure in the Flying Cloyd as it’s easy to sleep multiple individuals thanks to convertible furniture and even a twin bed sleeping option.  

One floor plan even leaves space for a dedicated office environment so providing the ideal work-from-home setting for digital nomads. Airstream aren’t recognized for being a budget-friendly brand, and I’ll admit, the Flying Clooud isn’t the cheapest trailer option out there. But equipped with a backup camera, standard solar prep, and more, this trailer has great potential as a full-time RV. 

While the price may be a bit high and the size may be a bit small for pro-RVers or those requiring a bit more space, Airstream has a lot to offer in terms of the longevity of their rigs and the owner perks that come along with warranties and member clubs. 

Best Off-Road: OPUS Camper OP15

Traveling from one place to another can sometimes feel tedious, especially when living full-time on the road. However, there’s a dynamic travel trailer perfect for life on the road, and it’s called the OPUS Camper OP15. I’m a big fan of OPUS, as I believe they are one of the most forward-thinking RV manufacturers out there, especially since the OP15 is a fully off-road, hybrid rig!

Getting to the best park ups isn’t always easy. There have been countless occasions when I’ve found a great-looking park up on my phone, but upon arrival, there’s no trailer-safe access. The OP15 is an off-grid beast, and for wild camping and hunting about the best, remote spots, there’s no better trailer. The price is on the expensive side, but I believe an investment in the OP15 won’t lead to disappointment, and there are many reasons why.

This rig has a dry weight of jump of 5,000lbs, making it a dream for those not wanting a heavy trailer, and already own a rig capable of handling this pretty lightweight number. This is a futuristic rig, and its style matches the aesthetic of all OPUS camper rigs, but these trailers aren’t just good-looking. The di-bond aluminum composite panel exterior with aluminum sub-structure and fully hot-dip galvanized chassis draw-bar reassure me of the durability of the OP15.

I love that this rig is off-grid ready with 300W of solar power on the roof, however, it’s wise to upgrade to some of the off-grid options for those looking to full-time in the sticks! Having features such h as DC to DC charging on board will help keep electrics finely tuned and powered up, while the optional addition of three lithium batteries is also a surefire way of staying powered up without relying on a campground hookup.

Impressively, although only measuring just over 23′ in length when set up, the OP15 can comfortably accommodate sleeping four people. I find the ingenuity of this OPUS camper truly outstanding. Some exterior RV kitchens aren’t too well-equipped, yet this rig boats an outdoor kitchen fit for a feast! With a 4-burner stovetop, storage and pantry access, a dish rack, a chopping board, LED lights, and even a 12V fridge/freezer, this is a rig I want to show off.

Why Live In A Travel Trailer Full Time?

There may be many reasons why you might want to live full-time in a travel trailer. Some of those may include:

• Lower cost of living overall
• You want to experience some freedom and travel
• Tiny home living interests you
• You’re an outdoor enthusiast
• You want to volunteer or dedicate a portion of your life to nature
• Retirement means you are ready for a change
• Meet new people while on the road

I changed my life when I decided to live full-time in a travel trailer. My partner and I fixed up a vintage rig and we decided to travel the nation as state park hosts. Volunteering brings me joy, and it may bring you a similar positive feeling!

No matter your reasons, living full-time in a travel trailer means weighing up the pros and cons and considering as much as possible to choose the right rig for you.

What To Consider For Full Time Travel Trailer Living?

From adequate storage space to the ability to do your own laundry, here are some of the top things for you to consider when planning on living in a travel trailer full-time.

Storage Space 

No matter how long you spend in your RV, storage space is always at a premium. If you plan on full-timing, storage space will likely be a top priority. This is usually because you’ll be bringing clothes, items, and food along with you on your journey.  Some full-timers enjoy finding RVs with wardrobes and large closets as it means plenty of interior storage.

Some RVs or travel trailers may even have pantries in the kitchen, leading to ample food storage, ideal for full-time needs.  RVs always have a decent amount of exterior storage, though this is most useful for outdoor gear or things that aren’t needed every day. The location of storage space is key to living peacefully in an RV full-time, and knowing where everything is!

Length Of Travel Trailer

The overall length of a camper matters for a number of reasons, the longer the rig, the more space there is! The size of a travel trailer is also an important consideration as your tow vehicle will only be able to handle a certain amount of weight, and this has to be respected. However, the longer the rig, the less likely you are to fit into every single campground or RV park you come across.

Some travel trailers, especially fifth wheels, can reach nearly 50 feet in length, which may be too long for many locales.  Choosing a shorter travel trailer may mean less interior living, but it could maximize your outdoor adventures. However, if you don’t plan on traveling very much or are comfortable camping in very specific locations, then having more space may feel right for you.

WiFi Capabilities

If you’re hitting the road as a full-time RVer because you’re a freelancer working from home, WiFi capabilities are worth giving a lot of thought to! Digital nomads and freelancers working from their homes on wheels is becoming more common, and WiFi is now typically a standard option across most types of RVs. It’s still worth checking internet is an option with any travel trailers you’re interested in, though, just to be sure!

You may not be very concerned about internet access if you don’t work from home or don’t plan on using the internet beyond checking the occasional email. However, it may be beneficial to have WiFi onboard while you travel for streaming and internet entertainment.

Keep in mind your WiFi may not work in every single place you camp; often, cell signals, and remoteness play a huge part in this. Having a router will only do so much if there’s no internet access to be found in the middle of nowhere. But then again, I think it’s quite nice to switch off from time to time! Since there are studies linking increased screen time with lower mental health , having no signal provides the ideal opportunity for some healing time in nature with loved ones.

Kitchen Amenities

While cooking on your outdoor RV grill is an option during warmer months, it’s wise to pay particular attention to your travel trailer’s kitchen when considering life on the road full-time. Your RV’s kitchen will no doubt become a central part of your life, but you’ll still need to function with reduced space and appliances when compared to a traditional home. This is especially true when living in an RV with only 30 amps of electricity.

Many common household appliances need more amps than you might think, and counter space will be at a premium. You should pay special attention to what can fit in your travel trailer kitchen, and how many amps your favorite appliance needs in order to operate. Travel trailers may also not have a full stove and oven to cook with.

I went in search of an RV kitchen with a full range and oven combination, along with a kitchen sink with two compartments. Trust me when I say this was a necessity for me!  Fridge space should also be something to consider. You may keep an eye out for RVs with residential-sized fridges as opposed to a more compact fridge size. 

Bathroom Amenities

Your RV bathroom is almost as important as your RV kitchen. You’ll need to decide if you want a wet bath or a dry bath – most full-timers want the option of a dry bath so the toilet can still be accessed while someone is showering. Most travel trailer bathrooms are pretty cut and dry. Some may have ample room to have two guests walking around in it; most will not. The main thing for you to consider in an RV bathroom? How large your hot water tank is.

Hot water will be at a premium in your RV unless you have a tankless water heater installed . You will not likely have enough hot water for a very long shower, and you won’t be able to shower and do dishes at the same time with a tank water heater. You may also be on the lookout for a travel trailer with a bathtub, or maybe even a travel trailer with two bathrooms for your large family or for guests. No matter your needs, there’s a rig out there for you- it just may take some customizing to achieve the goal RV! 

Additional Bedrooms

Speaking of guests, you may want to find an RV with another bedroom or multiple sleeping areas so you can comfortably invite guests to stay over. Travel trailers are built with large groups in mind, so friends and relatives can join in the camping fun without any hassle.

Many of these sleeping options involve convertible furniture of some kind, especially when looking at toy haulers . I’ve found having a master bedroom is key to comfort and keeps my partner and me a happy couple! However, a pull-out sofa is also a great shout for when the grandkids want to travel around for a couple of weeks over summer break.

Living Space

Given you’ll be living full-time in your travel trailer, the main living area should be something to give a substantial amount of thought to. It’s wise to write down a list of wants and needs so you can figure out exactly what you’re expecting a travel trailer to offer you. Would you like theatre seating in your slide-out? How about an electric fireplace or Bluetooth soundbar? 

The options are truly endless when it comes to customizing your main living room or living space. However, only you know what you want and the kind of rigs that are within budget. Many prime living area customizations are add-ons or non-standard features, so be prepared for these to increase overall costs.

It may be helpful for you to tour your desired RV make and model before deciding on your final purchase. Getting a feel for the living space and layout is important before diving right into full-time living.

Travel Trailer Weight 

Travel trailers need to be weighed often , mainly to take care of your tow vehicle. You never want to tow more than your tow vehicle can handle, but this is easier said than done for many full-timers packing their rigs to the brim.

This is why knowing the weight of your rig and how much weight your tow vehicle can safely transport down the road is crucial. While you may want to bring everything with you when you hit the road, keep in mind that sometimes, less is more, and nothing is worth towing an overweight travel trailer.

Holding Tank Sizes

Tanks are commonplace with RVs, and generally, on any camper, there is a fresh water, black water, and gray water tank. All of these tanks matter even more when you are a full-timer. If you plan on being disconnected from water and sewer lines, you’ll likely want a much larger tank than your average weekend warrior.

This is a good thing to keep an eye out for, as no full-timer wants to be constantly refilling their fresh water tank or emptying their waste tanks as it’s totally inconvenient! Saving a trip to the dump station can be a big deal if you are already emptying your tank weekly as a full-timer!

While living in a travel trailer can be a much lower investment than living in a traditional home, your budget should still be a consideration when shopping for an RV. Between the cost of your tow vehicle, rig, and any additional extras, you may end up spending more than you initially thought.

However, given an RV may be your full-time home for many years, it’s wise to invest and be prepared for just about any opportunity. Some potentially wise investments include a second air conditioner, tank heaters for cold seasons , and a backup camera.

Appliance Options And Laundry

Finally, a huge consideration for many full-timers is their appliance access and options for laundry services on board their rig. Many travel trailers and fifth wheels offer stackable washer-dryer units , making full-time RV living so much easier.

However, you’ll need to make sure your desired travel trailer layout supports these sorts of appliances. You may also want to ensure that your rig has an oven, microwave, or other appliance that may make like a bit more convenient.

Good Brands Of Travel Trailers To Live In

Curious about what some of the best travel trailer brands have to offer for full-time RV living? While all travel trailer brands have something to show, you may be looking for something special. Learn more about some of my top RV manufacturers now! You can also take a closer look at even more amazing travel trailer brands here . 

Grand Design

Grand Design is a popular RV choice for many full-timers, as their fifth wheels offer ample space for full-time living. They also furnish their rigs with many comforts of home, including cozy seating, a variety of appliance options, and fireplaces to maximize comfort and practicality. 

One of the most popular RV brands on the market today, Jayco, has many different models and layouts beneficial for full-time living. They also build their rigs to last, leading to more peace of mind for just about any RVer.

Nothing beats the classic look of aluminum Airstream travel trailers , and I know many full-timers who swear by them. While they may be on the higher end of some budgets, Airstream travel trailers offer full-timers considerable storage solutions and comfortability not found in many other brands.

Forest River

Forest River offers a wide variety of well-appointed travel trailers, many of them smaller than the average rig. However, they all have ample storage solutions, innovative layouts, and sleeping arrangements for the entire family.

Living Vehicle

If budget is no issue and you’re looking to live full-time in your travel trailer for the foreseeable future, I encourage you to check out Living Vehicle. They offer literal homes on wheels, with convertible office space and total off-grid capabilities. It’s the perfect freelancing rig!

Final Thoughts

Living in a travel trailer full-time was once a no-go. However, with the advances in RV technology and the many upgrades found in some of the trailer brands I’ve mentioned, you can expect to enjoy living in a travel trailer for years to come!

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7 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living [Complete 2024 Guide]

Home » 7 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living [Complete 2024 Guide]

• July 13, 2024

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This post may contain affiliate links. Check out our disclosure for more information.

Young and old, more people today are deciding to leave behind traditional stationary living for a nomadic lifestyle than in any other time in the modern world.

Travel trailers are a great way to get started with an RV lifestyle, as they offer a flexibility that motorized RVs don’t have.

They can be small and compact and easier to maneuver or larger and more luxurious if you want all the amenities.

Below, we’ve put together our list of the absolute best travel trailers for full-time RV living no matter your preference.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find something that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Read on to find out our top picks.

7 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living

We’ve organized our top picks for best travel trailers based on three major categories, including the best travel trailers for:

• Families (and large groups)
• Couples and solo travelers
• And small travel trailers

Keep in mind that there is some overlap. In the couples and solo section, we’ve omitted smaller options that you might be interested in in favor of putting those in their own section given they could be relevant to anyone.

Also, remember: these are just our recommendations: there are lots of amazing, trustworthy RV brands and models out there. By no means are these the only good travel trailers for full time living.

These are simply our top picks based on a variety of factors such as features, size, space, and the model and brand’s online reviews and ratings.

With that said, here are the 7 best travel trailers for full-time RV living:

Best Travel Trailers for Families

These are BIG travel trailers made to fit the whole family.

Many of these can sleep 6 or more and offer features such as a private bedroom, bunks for the kids, lots of resting area and storage, full kitchens, bathrooms, and more.

1. Grand Design Imagine 3210BH

The Grand Design Imagine 3210BH is the perfect full-family travel trailer.

It includes a full master bedroom at the head of the trailer along with a bunkhouse for the kids, kitchen island sink and storage, full bathroom, and even theater seating for movie nights.

Pretty much everything you could want– and even a few things you didn’t think you’d get– in an RV.

Grand Design Imagine 3210BH specs:

• Starting at $50,987+
• 10,195 lbs (GVWR)
• 36’11” in length

2. Jayco Jay Feather

Jayco Jay Feather is great if you’re looking for something with ample space without being super heavy and clunky to tow.

The Jay Feather comes in at just 7,000 lbs, which is several thousand pounds lighter than other travel trailers of similar size.

Despite this, it does give up too much in terms of amenities, offering ample interior space, modern appliances, sofa, dinette, full bathroom, and more.

Jay Feather specs:

• Starting at $40,000+
• 4,700 – 6,900 lbs (GVWR)
• Sleeps up to ten

3. Outback 296URK

Similarly spacious to the Grand Design Imagine 3210BH, the Outback 296URK offers everything you’d want for yourself and the whole family.

It offers lots of interior amenities from a full wraparound countertop to an incredible panoramic view via the back kitchen and big sofa sleeper, dinette, and desk slide outs.

Outback 296URK specs:

• Starting at $49,200+
• 7,000 lbs (GVWR)
• 34’ in length

Best Travel Trailers for Couples / Solo

Now, let’s cover a few travel trailers that are great for couples and solo travelers.

Each of these offers ample living space with everything you could need from dual nightstands and wardrobes to private bedrooms and dedicated workspace.

Note : if you’re looking for something smaller, we’ve separated those into their own section. Check out the next part for our top picks for the best small travel trailers.

*For more options, check out our guide on the best travel trailers for couples .

4. Bullet Crossfire 2220ML

The Bullet Crossfire 2220ML is a spacious option for those couples looking for a travel trailer that don’t want to give up on space.

It offers a massive private bedroom with queen bed and matching nightstands and wardrobes, tri-fold sofa sleeper slide out, and large dinette table. It also has a full dry bath with a standing shower and a corner sink.

Bullet Crossfire 2220ML specs:

• Starting at $38,000+
• 7,200 lbs (GVWR)
• 27’ in length

5. Hideout 24RBS

Our section option for solo travelers and couples is another large option: the Hideout 24RBS .

We placed this one on the list as it’s especially great for couples with its large private bedroom and massive bathroom including a full-size standing shower and wraparound sink.

It also offers a fairly large dinette booth and sofa slide out, making it easily one of the most comfortable travel trailers on this list.

Hideout 24RBS specs:

• Starting at $35,000+
• 6,300 lbs (GVWR)
• 29’ in length

Best Small Travel Trailers

Now, let’s cover a few small travel trailer options.

These aren’t for everyone, but for those traveling solo, couples, or new families you might prefer something more compact compared to the larger trailers we’ve listed thus far.

If that’s you, these are our picks for some of the best small travel trailers:

*Want more? Check out our guide on the best lightweight travel trailers .

6. Travel Lite Rove Lite

The Travel Lite Rove Lite is our first choice for best small travel trailer. It sports a more modern RV design with an aerodynamic teardrop shape and comes in at just 2,500 lbs.

Definitely not the smallest travel trailer around, but small enough that maneuverability is far greater than the previously mentioned travel trailers.

Despite that, it still has enough interior space that one or two people (or a new family) will have enough room to be comfortable.

The Travel Lite has a full kitchen and bathroom, stainless steel appliances, and comfortably sleeps three.

Travel Lite Rove Lite specs:

• Starting at $26,000+
• 2,500 – 3,500 lbs (GVWR)
• 16’ in length

7. Airstream Bambi 22FB

One of our favorite small travel trailers, the Airstream Bambi 22FB sports a retro design with a full aluminum interior and exterior.

Like the Rove Lite, it’s smaller (though a bit larger at 3,500 lbs) so it’s easier to tow while still offering a decent amount of space. It offers a full dry bath and kitchen along with a sofa dinette.

The Bambi isn’t quite as comfortable for a new family, but works for solo travelers or couples who are looking for something smaller.

Airstream Bambi specs:

• Starting at $60,400+
• 3,500 lbs (GVWR)
• 16 in length

What Is the Best RV for Full-Time Living?

The best RV for full-time living is based on what amenities you need for your daily life.

To figure out what the best RV is for you, start by deciding what type of RV class or trailer type you prefer. Look at:

• Class A, B, and C RVs
• Travel trailers
• Fifth wheels
• And toy haulers

Once you’ve done that, look at different RV brands to get an idea of the different styles

and typical features. Which features are important to you and which can you do without?

• How many you’re traveling with and how many sleeping areas you need
• If you need a separate work area
• What kind of bathroom you’d prefer
• How much storage you need

After taking all of this into consideration, you’ll start to be able to get an idea of what the best RV will be for you full-time.

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

Often somewhere between $1,000 – $3,000 per month, but the amount can vary wildly depending on countless factors.

Your cost to live full-time in an RV depends mostly on a few major factors:

• Whether you’re making payments on your RV (and how much) or if it’s paid off
• Where you’ll be traveling and the price of gas and food in those areas
• How often you stay at paid campsites and how much you’re paying
• How often you eat out vs. cook

Other factors contribute, however, these are the largest factors that specifically have to deal with full-time RV living (i.e. they don’t factor in most things you’d be paying for regardless of RVing full time or not, such as cell service, insurance, etc.).

Learn more about how much it costs to rent an RV long-term .

Tips and Considerations for Choosing a Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living

There’s lots to think about when choosing an RV or travel trailer.

We just covered learning more about the RV classes and trailer types as well as the typical features you’d find in those types of RVs.

That will get you started in the right direction, but if you’re looking for more, here are some additional tips and considerations for choosing a travel trailer for full-time living.

Space is #1

Before looking at anything else, figure out if the RV you’re interested in has enough space for you and whoever you’re traveling with.

There really is nothing more important than this, so don’t overlook it.

Consider more than just, “can we fit?” though. Think about how much space you want and each person will need to be comfortable, not just get by.

The last thing you want is to purchase an RV and find that while you can get by, you all feel cramped and uncomfortable.

Where you’ll be camping / staying

This is an easy thing to overlook because it’s something you won’t realize until you start traveling for the first time.

Certain campsites are easier to manage with a smaller RV, while others– for example, many campsites at National Parks– are downright impossible for something like a class A or fifth wheel.

If you plan on staying at higher-end RV resorts, however, you’ll be fine with any size RV.

Are you fine with lugging around a giant RV?

Another consideration is size. Larger RVs such as class A’s and fifth wheels are really big and hard to maneuver.

If you don’t like the idea of dealing with the challenge of trying to fit your massive RV into gas stations, finding parking, and pulling into campsites with just enough space– not to mention simply navigating highways– a larger RV might not be best for you.

There are pros and cons to each size of RV, and the most notable is usually the contrast between living space and interior comfort vs. travel ease and maneuverability.

Can Any RV Work for Full-Time Living?

Yes, travelers all around the country live in quite literally every type of RV there is.

With that said, whether a particular travel trailer or other RV can work for you for full-time living is another story.

The main issue is space. If you have a full family, you’re likely not going to be able to make a class B van work.

Another no-go is towing power. If you’re getting a travel trailer and you don’t have a truck or even an SUV, you’ll need to get a motorhome that can pull itself.

Similarly, some travel trailers are too large to be pulled even by an SUV, so if you have an SUV you’ll either need to make sure it can tow the RV you want or upgrade to a truck.

The final thing is work requirements and conditions.

If you’ll be working from the road, how much space do you need? And does it need to be a dedicated work area? This will also impact what RVs will work for you.

How We Decided the Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living

There are so many great travel trailer brands and even more models out there, so it was hard narrowing down our top picks.

These are by no means the only great travel trailers for full-time living, simply the ones we felt were the best of the lot.

With that said, to decide which we felt were the best we looked at several factors, including:

• Online reviews
• Customer ratings
• Brand reputation and awards

Each factor was weighed separately in determining which travel trailers we felt were the best.

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11 Best Travel Trailers For Full-Time Living

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Last Updated on August 24, 2024 by Paul Clayton

Table of Contents

The transition to a nomadic lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular, and many people are seeking the best travel trailers for full-time living. This guide introduces the 11 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living, designed to offer the comfort of a home while being easy to tow.

These travel trailers boast features like spacious interiors, modern amenities, and smart storage solutions. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or a family of travelers, this selection of the 11 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living will provide a variety of options to suit your needs, enabling you to explore with flexibility and convenience.

Switching for full-time RV living is a significant lifestyle change, and you would definitely want to stay in the best RV that you could possibly buy. However, how do you choose a great travel trailer for full-time living from a variety of models available?

Well, let us introduce you to 11 travel trailers that we think are the best for full-time living.

11 best travel trailers for full-time living

Winnebago minnie plus.

MSRP starting at $52,139

Key features:

• Plenty of interior space.
• 8 cubic feet double-door refrigerator.
• Three-burner cooktop.
• 30,000BTU furnace.
• 15,000BTU ducted AC.
• Outdoor kitchen (in some floorplans).

Starting at $52,139 MSRP, the Minnie line by Winnebago is a pricey one. However, if you have the money and comfort is of utmost importance for you (which it probably is), then a Minnie travel trailer could be a great choice for you.

The Winnebago Minnie travel trailer line consists of seven floorplans, which all offer very different features. There are some things that are shared between them – mainly, the features we introduced above – but all the floorplans differ drastically from each other in terms of interior room, layout, and sleeping space.

For example, some floorplans have bunk beds aside from a primary queen bed. Others have more convenient kitchen areas with kitchen islands and/or outdoor pull-out kitchens. The longest 13BHDS floorplan even has a separate bedroom with bunks in the rear!

What is similar across all the floorplans, however, is the amount of comfort delivered. Needless to say, longer floorplans are going to be more comfortable (and expensive), but they all offer a comparable amount of comfort in all key areas.

First of all, all the floorplans come with full bathrooms, albeit their size and layout differ from floorplan to floorplan. The kitchen area is also similarly equipped and sized in all the options, though some additionally have conveniences like kitchen islands and outdoor kitchens. 

Aside from that, all the floorplans boast a roomy bedroom, as well as a dinette and an entertainment area with theater seating.

We offer you to get acquainted with the smaller details and differences in this line yourself, but what we can say is that each floorplan delivers an excellent amount of free room, albeit for a high price.

Gulf Stream Coach Conquest Lodge

• Huge bedrooms.
• Excellent comfort.
• Four-burner cooktop.
• Residential double-door refrigerator.
• 50-amp service.
• 35,000BTU furnace.
• 13,500BTU ducted AC.

There are travel trailers, and then there are destination trailers. While technically still travel trailers, destination trailers offer much more than any travel trailer, though usually for quite a steep price. While Gulf Stream Coach doesn’t provide prices on their website, a quick search showed that the trailers in this line cost around $40,000 when new.

So what’s so special about destination trailers and the Conquest Lodge line in particular? Well, first of all, pay attention to the length of the floorplans in the series. Sized at around 40 feet, Conquest Lodge trailers are much longer than most travel trailers out there. What this means is that residents of Conquest Lodge RVs have far more living space.

A glance at the floorplans instantly shows how much room these travel trailers have. With the slideouts extended, you receive ample bedroom and living area room. What this allows is a truly residential feel and, most importantly, functionality.

For example, Gulf Stream has equipped the models in this RV line with full-size residential double-door refrigerators, which is a very rare sight in travel trailers. And overall, the amount of kitchen space you are getting here is astonishing.

The living and entertainment area can also boast a lot of space. There is so much floor room here that some may even argue that the Conquest Lodge trailers don’t utilize the amount of free space available in them efficiently. On the other hand, you have more opportunities for RV remodeling.

Weighing close to 10,000 pounds, the Conquest Lodge travel trailers require quite a towing vehicle. But if you can afford such an RV, you probably have a towing unit that is powerful enough to tow such weights.

Overall, we think that destination travel trailers like the Conquest Lodge RVs are the best for full-time living due to the amount of comfort and free space they provide. Destination trailers are specifically designed for long vacations, after all.

Starcraft RV GSL Travel Trailer

MSRP starting from $58,905*

*MSRP of Starcraft RVs includes base MSRP plus mandatory packages. At the moment of the material’s writing, the base MSRP for floorplans 275RLS and 296BHS was listed as $0, resulting in an absurdly low final MSRP of around $4,000. This is probably a mistake made by Starcraft. $58,905 isn’t the lowest price in this line, it is the lowest price where the base MSRP was correct.

• Wide range of floorplan lengths.
• Plenty of sleeping spots on larger floorplans.
• Outdoor kitchen.

The Starcraft RV GSL Travel Trailer line is much more down-to-earth than the Conquest Lodge, but it nonetheless has a couple of features to boast. 

Namely, the main benefit of this travel trailer line is the number of sleeping spots in larger floorplans. In a couple of floorplans, it reaches 8, and the largest floorplan, 321BHS can even sleep up to 10 people! This is going to be excellent for larger families that intend to live in a travel trailer full-time.

The 296BH floorplan, by the way, is 36 feet 3 inches long, so it’s pretty close to being as big as the Conquest Lodge destination trailers. This particular floorplan differs drastically from the others both in terms of free interior room and layout. It’s the only floorplan in the line that has a separate sleeping compartment in the rear, as well as two dinettes.

The smaller floorplans – aside from the smallest one, the 275RLS – have a pretty similar layout which is very reminiscent of other travel trailers. Sized at around 33 feet in length, they offer a very decent amount of comfort thanks to their roomy bedroom, the nicely sized kitchen, and, in some floorplans, bunks.

The 290RLS, sized at 33 feet 11 inches, delivers the least amount of comfort in the GSL line. At least, in terms of free room. Though things are cramped in this travel trailer, you still have a full bathroom with a shower cabin, a roomy bedroom, and a fully equipped kitchen. Plus, it’s much lighter than the other floorplans in the line.

Overall, the GSL RV line is a good and not-so-expensive option for RVers who need a good number of sleeping spots.

Palomino Puma Destination

• Three-burner range.
• 16 cubic feet residential refrigerator.
• Two bedrooms in the 38DBS floorplan.

The Palomino Destination travel trailer line is a lot like the Gulf Stream Conquest Lodge line. For those looking for home-like comfort in an RV , this series is another good option to consider.

However, there are some differences between this and the Conquest Lodge lines that will make the Palomino trailers more interesting to some people.

First of all, you have more choice when it comes to floorplans – 8 in this series vs the 4 in the Conquest Lodge series. And really, when it comes to layouts, this line offers plenty of variety. 

The Palomino Destination RV line has floorplans with the bedroom in the front, while Conquest Lodge RVs all had their bedroom in the rear. If this isn’t a difference big enough for you, then how about the 38DBS floorplan which actually has two bedrooms – one in the front and the other in the rear? The Conquest Lodge line certainly didn’t offer such a thing.

There are also some more minor differences between the floorplans in this line like the positioning and number of armchairs, as well as the layout of the kitchen.

On the other hand, the travel trailers in this line come with 30-amp service, which may be insufficient for some people. We feel that these travel trailers should have come with 50-amp service since they have plenty of equipment inside.

All in all, the Palomino Destination travel trailer line is a very interesting alternative to the Gulf Stream Conquest Lodge line, with both having comparable levels of comfort, as well as some differences here and there that make them stand out.

Travel Lite RV Rove Ultra Lite 

• Sleek design.
• True 80 x 76-inch king beds.
• Roomy and convenient bedrooms.
• Roomy bathroom.
• Outdoor kitchen (except for Model L).

The Rove Ultra Lite travel trailer line by Travel Lite RV is one unique line indeed. 

The first thing to catch the eye in the Rove Ultra Lite travel trailers is their sleek design. While the body shape of these RVs is very reminiscent of many other travel trailers, the front is something else. Its sloped shape imparts a futuristic vibe to the RV, as well as should make it more aerodynamic and thus fuel-efficient.

The glossy fiberglass exterior also hugely contributes to the sleek feel of this travel trailer line. Most travel trailers available out there look very similar to each other and are frankly quite boring, so the Rove Ultra Lite line is a breath of fresh air on the market.

Inside, this travel trailer line is no less remarkable than from the outside, both in terms of looks and comfort.

First of all, the Rove Ultra Lite travel trailers bring sleekness to the inside by having a color scheme with mostly light colors like white or gray. The LED light tubing spread around the interior contributes to the futuristic atmosphere of this RV line, though these lights may seem irritating or annoying to some. Well, you can switch them off if you don’t like them.

In terms of comfort, the first thing to note in the Rove Ultra Lite trailers is their true 80 x 76-inch king bed. RV bed sizes are smaller than their non-RV analogs, and the extra couple of inches in the king beds in this line may be crucial for some people.

The comfort of the bedroom isn’t limited to the king bed – in two floorplans, the bedroom is actually equipped with a sink! Aside from that, the free room available in them is astonishing as well, especially in the longer floorplans.

The bathrooms in the Rove Ultra Lite RV line are likewise large and comfortable, though the bathroom is better in the 14BH where it occupies the entire width of the RV in the rear end.

And, of course, you are getting some nice kitchen space along with a dinette and an entertainment area.

In conclusion, being not the largest and most comfortable RV line on our list, the Rove Ultra Lite is arguably the most remarkable and eye-catching.

KZ Sportsmen Destination

• Plenty of interior room.
• 8 cubic feet refrigerator.
• Outside shower.
• 13,500BTU AC.

Yet another destination trailer series on our list! This time, it is the KZ Sportsmen Destination, which offers comfort comparable to that of the Palomino and Gulf Stream destination trailers. However, this line is more similar in its features and layouts to the Palomino line than to the Conquest Lodge.

In terms of variety, the Palomino Destination line certainly offered more. On the other hand, what we like about the Sportsmen Destination line is all its floorplans have the same exact length of 40 feet 9 inches. Thanks to this, if you like one floorplan more than the others, you don’t have to sacrifice free room inside or go for an RV that is larger than you would like.

While the overall variety in this line is less than in Palomino Destination RVs, you still have the option of a floor plan with two bedrooms. In addition, you can choose between front- or rear-bedroom floorplans, as well as between bunks, an entertainment center, or additional storage space in the front.

The KZ Sportsmen Destination line is very well-equipped, but it seems to be more modest than the other two destination lines we overviewed above. For example, Sportsmen RVs come with an 8 cubic feet refrigerator, with a 10 cubic feet option being available. Both are much smaller than the huge 16 cubic feet unit in the Palomino RV.

Aside from that, the Sportsmen line RVs only come with 30-amp service, with the option of 50-amp service being available.

KZ also doesn’t indicate any furnaces in this line’s trailers, but they may have just forgotten to include it in the feature list. We wouldn’t really expect a destination RV not to have a furnace by default.

In the end, the KZ Sportsmen Destination series seems like a more modest destination trailer line than the two others, but it still has remarkable levels of comfort to offer.

• Compactness & lightness.
• 4/7 cubic feet refrigerator (depending on the floorplan).
• Double-burner gas cooktop.
• 8,000BTU exterior AC.
• 13,500BTU AC (on E181RB, E191BHK, E201TB, E231BH).
• 20,000BTU furnace.

While larger RVs offer an excellent amount of comfort for full-time living, not everyone can afford or needs a 40-foot-long destination travel trailer. Some people have a more limited budget, others don’t have the towing capacity, while the rest simply don’t need all that fancy stuff. For such RVers, more compact travel trailers like those in the KZ Escape line would be more appealing.

Sized from 22 feet to 27 feet 3 inches, KZ Escape travel trailers certainly don’t deliver the amount of free room and comfort in the RVs we overviewed previously. On the other hand, these RVs are more compact, as well as weigh half as much as some of the RVs above.

Interestingly, there is also a toy hauler floorplan in this line, the E180TH, but we didn’t include it in the chart above since we are talking about travel trailers today.

The KZ Escape line undeniably isn’t the most comfortable on our list, but it does offer all the essentials that you would want for full-time living. Most importantly, Escape RVs have full bathrooms, well-equipped kitchens, small entertainment areas, and bedrooms.

And if that’s really everything that you need from a travel trailer, then the Escape line may be of great interest to you.

Flagstaff E-Pro

• Exceptionally compact and light.
• 3-way refrigerator/autogas or electric refrigerator.

The Flagstaff E-Pro travel trailer line is even smaller than the KZ Escape series. The amount of free room in these travel trailers is very limited, but you are nonetheless getting all the essential travel trailer amenities.

Well, aside from E12S and E14D floorplans, which don’t have interior bathrooms. While some people may be willing to sacrifice the bathroom for lightness and compactness, we think that the floorplans with bathrooms are much better for full-time living.

The rest of the floorplans, sized at 14 feet 1 inch and above, offer all the basics that you would need in a travel trailer. Obviously, the bigger you go, the more comfortable and roomy the RVs get, but you nonetheless receive comparably little comfort in these travel trailers.

But if your vehicle only has 4,000 pounds of towing capacity, then an RV from the E-Pro line would work wonderfully for you.

Forest River Sierra Destination

• An interior ceiling fan.
• A loft with sleeping space (in the 399LOFT and 400BH LOFT floorplan both have a height of 13’4″ ).
• 20 cubic feet stainless steel refrigerator.
• 15,000BTU ducted AC & digital thermostat.

We’ve overviewed a few destination trailers above, and it may seem that what they are offering can’t be surpassed by anything. Well, the Forest River Sierra destination line proves otherwise. This probably isn’t the most well-equipped destination trailer series out there, but it nonetheless offers more than others.

With a layout that is overall similar to that of the other destination trailer series overviewed, the Sierra trailers have a few unique details to offer.

For example, all floorplans come with a single ceiling fan installed in the living/entertainment area, which is going to allow you not to waste as much power on moderately hot days as an AC would.

Plus, the kitchen area of every floorplan except for 400QBH features a kitchen island. Not a must-have feature, but it does add more useful surface area to your kitchen. The sizes of the kitchen islands vary from floorplan to floorplan, with the largest and most convenient one being in the 402FK floorplan.

In the 403RD floorplan, all the areas of the RV are separated from each other (rather than overlap like they usually is in RVs), allowing for a more residential feel. The 399LOFT  and 400BH floor plans boast a loft above the bedroom with some additional sleeping space, albeit with the tradeoff of making the RV taller.

Particularly notable in these floorplans is also the refrigerator–size at 20 cubic feet, it is the biggest RV refrigerator we’ve seen on our list.

Any destination trailer is going to offer excellent comfort to you. However, some do it better than others and the Sierra Destination series is among the most comfortable travel trailers out there.

Jayco Jay Flight SLX 

Starting $24,309 MSRP

• A nice balance between comfort, price, and size.
• 13,500 BTU roof AC.
• 6 cubic feet refrigerator.
• Outside kitchen in some floorplans.

The Jay Flight SLX travel trailer series is somewhere in between the bulky and comfy destination trailers and compact & light travel trailers. At quite a low price, this line offers a good balance between price, comfort, and size.

The first thing to catch the eye with this travel trailer line is the wide selection of floorplan options available. Ranging from about 25 to over 36 feet, the Jay Flight SLX RV could be suitable for a good number of RVers.

With such a variety of floorplans, it is quite difficult to pinpoint the unique features of each. Well, we don’t really have to since the Jay Flight SLX RV has quite a traditional travel trailer setup. 

However, this series provides many options when it comes to amenities and the general layout. For example, some floorplans feature a main bedroom plus an area with double bunk beds. Or if you are particularly worried about bathroom comfort, you could pick from the floorplans that have larger and comfier bathrooms.

Aside from that, most floorplans are equipped with outdoor kitchens, which is going to be a nice feature for people who like to spend most of their time outdoors.

The Jay Flight SLX travel trailer line certainly isn’t as comfortable as say the Forest River Sierra destination trailer, but it does offer many other good things. Most importantly, Jayco travel trailers are cheaper, so they are better for RVers with a tighter budget.

Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow

Starting from $53,609 MSRP

• Living room & bedroom ceiling fans (except for 40LOFT and 40FKDS).
• Loft with additional sleeping space in 40LOFT and 40DLFT.
• 18 cubic feet residential-style refrigerator.
• 15,000BTU central AC.

The last RV on our list of the best travel trailers for full-time living is Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow. Jayco doesn’t market this travel trailer model as a destination trailer, but it, in fact, is a destination trailer if we follow the branding logic of other manufacturers.

For quite the money, the Jay Flight Bungalow offers a set of features that is comparable to what the Forest River Sierra RV has. However, there is one little difference that instantly catches the eye.

The Jay Flight Bungalow travel trailer floorplans again all come with ceiling fans.

Other than that, the Jayco and Forest River destination trailers seem to offer very similar features. Want a lot of sleeping space? Then the 40LOFT and the 40DLFT floorplan will be the best option. 

In terms of bathroom space, particularly notable is the bathroom of the 40DLFT and 40RLTS floorplan. It is a full bathroom with a lot of storage space and plenty of wiggle room!

In the end, the Jay Flight Bungalow RV line again offers comfort levels comparable to those of the other destination trailer series overviewed, but there are a few things in it that are better.

Final words

Here you have our top of 11 best travel trailers for full-time living. Even compared to motorhomes, travel trailers are the preferred choice of most people.

Travel trailers can be insanely comfortable, especially if you have the budget and towing capacity to go for a destination trailer. However, there is one thing that travel trailers (and any towable RV) require. That thing is a towing vehicle.

Whether or not to go for a travel trailer will mainly depend on whether you have a vehicle or not. If you have and aren’t intending to sell it (or are even planning to buy one), then you will have to go for a towable RV. Otherwise, if you will be selling your car or just don’t have one and aren’t planning to buy it, then you will have to go for a motorhome.

As for other factors like comfort or price, any RV type could work for you. But as long as you have a towing vehicle, a travel trailer would probably be a better option for you.

Other Full-Time Living Articles You Might Like

• 13 Best RVs For Full Time Living With Family And Kids
• 5 Best Class B RVs For Full Time Living
• The 5 Best 5th Wheels for Full Time Living
• 5 Best RV Brands For Full Time RV Living

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What Is the Best RV For Full-Time Living?

Airstream International – This is one of the best travel trailers for full-time living because of Airstream’s innovative use of space and iconic design. With floorplans featuring spacious bedrooms, ample working spaces, and panoramic windows, this model is best for couples and solo full-timers .

Grand Design Imagine 3210BH – This four-season travel trailer features a bunkhouse at the back and a master bedroom at the front, making it perfect for full-timing families .

Forest River Wildwood 29VIEW – Dedicated office and bunk room, panoramic windows, and large living quarters make this a top pick for full-time digital nomads .

Best Fifth Wheels for Full-Time Living

Keystone Montana High Country 381TB – This fifth wheel is perfect for full-time living families because it features two full bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The 381TB also offers spacious kitchens and living areas.

Forest River Arctic Wolf 27SGS – The Arctic Wolf lineup is well known for its ability to withstand cold temperatures. This fifth wheel is nimble enough to be towed by a properly equipped light-duty truck and features the perfect floorplan for RVing couples .

Jayco Eagle 29.5BHOK – This rig is perfect for large families because it features a dedicated bunk space at the rear with four bunk beds . The outdoor kitchen and ample indoor living spaces offer maximum flexibility for everyone to enjoy their space.

Best Toy Haulers for Full-Time Living

Grand Design Momentum 410TH – This king of the road has it all for full-time RVing families . The garage area is large enough to fit a half bath, overhead and fold-down beds, and plenty of extra room for the family and your toys. Check out other toy hauler floorplans from Grand Design.

Heartland Road Warrior 375RW – This floorplan is designed for couples or smaller families . It features a large garage area that doubles as a patio, a spacious bedroom, and open living areas.

Best Class C RVs for Full-Time Living

Winnebago Minnie Winnie – This classic Class C has been around for ages and features a diverse range of floor plans to accommodate many full-timing styles .

Coachmen Leprechaun – Much like the Minnie Winnie, this model has stood the test of time and offers a floorplan for just about any RVing style .

Thor Quantum LC22 – Perfect for couples or solo full-time RV living , this 24-footer can fit just about anywhere while still providing a separate bed area and a dinette that doubles as an office.

Best Class B RVs for Full-Time Living

Winnebago Solis 59PX – This is the rig for you if you’re set on full-time RV living with a family . This campervan features a wet bath, a convertible sleeping area at the rear, and a pop up tent on top with a bedroom perfect for kids.

Jayco Terrain 19Y –  Camper vans like this one are made to tear up the trail in style. Featuring 4×4 systems, off-road tires, and off-grid living tech, this rig is best for couples or solo travelers who want to go deep into the wilderness .

Check out our votes for the best Class B RV for full time time living .

Best Class A RVs for Full-Time Living

Tiffin Phaeton – Tiffin has set the luxury Class A standard since 1972. The Phaeton features 1.5 baths, a rarity for Class A RVs. It also offers finishings that rival luxury homes and extra sleeping spaces, making it suitable even for full-time RV families .

Entegra Coach Vision – Entegra’s Vision lineup offers the perfect balance of features and floor plans at a relatively reasonable price for a smaller Class A RV . It is best suited for solos and couples .  

What Is the Best RV Type for Full-Time Living?

Keeping those top picks for the best RV for full-time living in mind, let’s dig into the pros and cons of each camper type:

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers are one of the most versatile campers on the market, ranging from tiny teardrops to multi-slide-out behemoths . 

• Many models can be towed by properly equipped light-duty trucks and SUVs.
• You’ll find a wide variety of available floorplans, lengths, and price points.
• Four-season configurations are readily available.
• There is a large market of gently used units at great prices.
• It is one of the most innovative segments of the market, featuring mobile office spaces , second bedrooms and bathrooms, innovative technology, off-grid equipment , and more.
• Long travel trailers won’t always fit in national parks and national forest campgrounds.
• Turning and driving in cities can be challenging.
• Some travel trailers are two-season and/or too small for full-time living.
• They require a tow vehicle you may not already have, necessitating another purchase.

Fifth Wheels

Fifth wheel RVs are popular for full-time living due to the diversity of floorplans, extra space over the bed of a truck, and generally easier turning compared to travel trailers. Let’s dig into all the details:

• The space over the bed of your truck provides extra interior square footage.
• You’ll find more two-bedroom, two-bathroom floorplans readily available.
• They generally offer an improved turning radius compared to travel trailers.
• Toy hauler fifth-wheels have more spacious living areas than toy hauler travel trailers.
• You’ll find an extensive range of available floorplans and options.
• Most feature cavernous storage bays.
• They often require a heavy-duty tow vehicle.
• Not all campgrounds can accommodate large fifth-wheels.
• It can be challenging to access remote camping areas, such as BLM lands .
• Prices tend to be higher than for travel trailers.

Toy Haulers

Toy haulers are travel trailers, fifth wheel, or motorhome RVs with a garage area. (Check out our list of the best toy hauler in each class). Let’s see how they fare for full-time living:

• The garage can tote ATVs, motorcycles, and other recreation equipment.
• They have large storage bays.
• You’ll find diverse floorplans with multiple slide-out options
• They tend to be at the cutting edge of technology, comfort, and convenience features.
• The garage area doubles as an office, bed, patio, or other space.
• They boast more durable construction to support higher cargo carrying capacities.
• They generally require a heavy-duty tow vehicle.
• The garage area can take up space needed for the kid’s bedroom.
• The length of the trailer can be challenging for city driving or tight campgrounds.
• Not all RV parks can accommodate large toy haulers.

Class C Motorhomes

Class C RVs are popular picks for full-time living because they can pack a bunch of options in a nimble package. Here’s our take on Class Cs for full-time RVing: 

• They can fit in small campgrounds and off-the-beaten-path locations.
• It is a tried-and-true RV design built on proven truck chassis by Ford, Chevy, and others.
• They are generally self-contained with large wastewater tanks and onboard generators.
• Many can dinghy tow an extra vehicle for added mobility once you reach your destination.
• It is a large segment offering a variety of floorplans and price points.
• The cabover bed space is a common, versatile space used for sleeping or extra storage.
• If you need engine work, your whole home goes in for repair.
• Some Class C campers may not have enough space for full-time families.
• They usually feature fewer slide-outs than travel trailers, fifth wheels, or Class A RVs

Class B Camper Vans

Class B RVs , or camper vans, are generally best for couples. That said, many families have braved Class B space constraints for the easy maneuverability these campers provide. Let’s check it out:

• They are the easiest RVs to drive.
• They usually fit in standard parking spaces.
• Many models feature cutting-edge boondocking technology.
• Some floorplans offer configurable spaces that adapt to meet your needs.
• AWD and 4×4 models are readily available.
• They may not feature a full bathroom (and many that do boast a wet bath).
• The sleeping and living spaces are tight.
• Slideouts are generally not available.
• The kitchen, fridge, and sink sizes can all be limited.

Class A RVs

Class A RVs are some of the most luxurious motorhomes on the road. Their large storage bays, hefty holding tanks, and cutting-edge tech make them a worthy option for full-time living. 

• They offer a wide range of floorplan and slide-out options available for maximum space.
• Many boast large holding tanks and generators for extended boondocking.
• You’ll get spacious storage bays for all your camping gear.
• Most have the ability to dinghy tow a secondary vehicle or trailer.
• They can be too large for some RV parks.
• Learning how to drive them requires the largest learning curve among motorhomes.
• They generally have a higher purchase price than other RV types.

Now, let’s see how to find your best camper options for full-time RV living.

Tips for Choosing The Best RV for Full-Time Living

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting the best RV for full-time living. Instead, the best pick for you depends on what you value most on the journey. Ask yourself these questions to start narrowing down your options Do we want to be able to camp in smaller spots, or are interior living spaces and luxury amenities more important?

Does each family member need their own room, or will this be a journey in shared spaces?

Do we want to tow a trailer or drive a motorhome?  

These questions will begin your RV buying process, but let’s dive into six important factors you must consider when selecting an RV for full-time living. 

Towing Capacity

Camping trailers come in a range of shapes and sizes. Some RVs fit for full-time living can even be towed by light-duty trucks and mid-size SUVs. Use this towing capacity calculator to check your vehicle’s towing limitations if you already own a tow vehicle. Alternatively, if you plan to purchase a tow vehicle for full-time RVing, you could choose the camper first and then buy the right vehicle to pull it. 

If you’re shopping for a tow vehicle, our guide to the best vehicle for towing a camper provides tow capacity specs for popular 2023 vehicles. You’ll also need to learn about RV weight ratings to ensure you don’t exceed 75-80% of your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.

Additionally, the best Class A and Class C motorhomes for full-time living can tow a personal car. This is known as dinghy towing , and it’s equally important to ensure the weight of the vehicle you want to tow fits the towing capacity of your motorhome. 

The longer the camper, the more space it provides for full-time living. Initially, this might steer you towards the longest RV possible for full-time living, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of shorter versus longer campers.

Fifth wheels can exceed 40 feet and offer two bedrooms and two bathrooms. That can seem like the best fit for full-time living until you consider the campground constraints you may face. For example, most national park campgrounds don’t allow RVs much longer than 30 feet. 

Smaller campers have less space but allow for boondocking and camping in spectacular, hard-to-reach spots. Shorter towable RVs are also generally easier to tow than their longer counterparts. If your best RV for full-time living is one that allows you to camp almost anywhere, a shorter camper like the Jayco Terrain 19Y or the Airstream International 23FB may be right for you.

Ultimately, your ideal RV length depends on your vision of life on the road. If you have a large family, you may need a longer camper, even if you’d prefer to be more nimble. Couples tend to value the agility of camper vans, small Class C RVs , and shorter travel trailers or fifth-wheels. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, however. Carefully weigh the things you value most to pick the best setup for you and yours. 

Sleeping Capacity, Layout, and Bed Types

How many beds will you need? Do you prefer permanent beds, or would convertible sleeping areas work? Murphy beds and folding bunks are found in many full-time living RVs, creating extra sleeping areas that seamlessly convert to living space during the day. 

If it’s important for the kids to have a separate sleeping area, you’ll likely seek a travel trailer or fifth wheel that’s long enough to feature bedrooms at the front and back. Examples include the Grand Design Imagine 3210BH and the Keystone Montana High Country 381TB .

Camper vans and small Class C campers can sometimes be less private than their larger cousins because their walls aren’t as thick. Examples of motorhomes listed above with separate sleeping areas include the Winnebago Minnie Winnie 31H and the Entegra Coach Vision 29F .

While all campers create a level of privacy, consider the privacy level you need in the camper you choose for full-time living. 

Four-Season Construction

Unless you plan to chase 70℉ everywhere you go, you’ll need an RV for full-time living that features four-season construction. Here are important four-season features: 

• Insulation types — R-value is a measure of your RV’s insulation. The higher the number, the better the insulation. Campers with R-values of 5 or greater are generally considered four-season ready. 
• Heated holding tanks — Full-time RVing can come to a standstill if your water and sewer tanks freeze up. That’s why many four-season RVs feature specially designed heating that targets these tanks.  
• Enclosed underbelly — If the tanks and pipes underneath your camper are exposed to cold weather, they’ll be more prone to freezing. Four-season campers cover and insulate these areas. 

From our list above, the Grand Design Momentum 410TH , Entegra Coach Vision , and Winnebago Minnie Winnie all include these features for extended camping.

Work and School Considerations

Many camper floorplans feature space for a mobile office to help you separate work and play. For example, the best toy hauler RVs for full-time living allow you to convert the garage into an office or schoolroom when not otherwise occupied. Here are a few toy hauler garage ideas for inspiration.

If you plan to roadschool your kids , your RV needs a space you can convert into a dedicated classroom. Bunk room fifth wheels, such as the Jayco Eagle 29.5BHOK , are excellent floorplans for roadschooling because you can keep the learning center separate from the rest of the living space. 

How Much Does Full-Time RV Living Cost?

Your full-time RV living budget will depend on your lifestyle, whether you buy new or used,  where you camp, and other factors. For example, let’s say you pay cash for a well-used but reliable RV, camp mainly on public lands, live minimally, and boondock often. Then, it’s possible to full-time RV for less than $1,000 per month. 

Alternatively, let’s imagine you plan on living full-time in an RV with the whole family, purchasing a new and spacious rig, and staying at established RV campgrounds. In this scenario, your monthly full-time RV living costs can easily exceed $2,500-$3,000.

The key to figuring out the cost of full-time RV living is to choose the RV and lifestyle that best suits you and then add up each individual cost to reach your total cost of living. This article includes a full-time RV budget breakdown and tips from one of our trusted camping partners.

Is It Financially Smart to Live in an RV?

It can be financially smart to live in an RV, but your “bottom line” will always depend on your lifestyle. You could sell your house, pay cash for an RV, and live minimally on the road, which could be considered financially savvy. 

Other full-time RVers purchase a modest RV and keep their house, allowing them to rent out the RV or the house to generate income when they aren’t using either. This could also be viewed as financially smart.

Analyze your unique financial situation to determine the most sensible RVing lifestyle for you and your family. Assuming you do that, living in an RV can be a financially smart option. 

What Is the Downside of Living in an RV Full-Time?

Common downsides of living in an RV full-time are:

• Lack of a fixed community
• Distance from friends and family
• Tighter spaces than in a sticks and bricks home
• Limited electric and water capacity when boondocking
• Challenges with campground availability
• Few floorplan options for more than two bedrooms and two bathrooms
• Internet connectivity can sometimes be a challenge, but it’s getting better

Choosing the best RV for full-time living is a highly individualized choice that’s thankfully matched with a diverse range of camper choices. This article offers an overview of all the pieces that go into that decision. We also have specific resources like Choosing Between Part-Time or Full-Time RV Living , Things to Know Before Going Full-Time , and cost-saving tips that’ll help even more. 

Tell us what you think — what’s your best RV for full-time living?

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This article was very helpful for me and will consider my options in buying a RV.

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Top 10 Best Travel Trailers For Full Time Living

• BUYERS GUIDE

G. Yoganand

Looking for a travel trailer to go full time ? Travel trailers are just the perfect type of RV to go full time. They are affordable, provide lots of features and give you that luxury of space.

Travel trailer is a less expensive RV to live away from home. You have almost everything that you need inside, plus you will be away from the hustle and bustle and daily stress. You just need your ever-reliable car or minivan to haul your travel trailer.

In this article, I present to you the best travel trailer to live full time every category and budget.

The reason to present this list in this way is because every person has different needs while choosing an RV for full time living. Some need small trailer while others want luxury , some may look for long lasting travel trailer .

What is more positive about using a travel trailer is that you can still use the vehicle you used to haul the trailer all year round.

Aside from that, a travel trailer comes in unique designs, sizes, and prices. So you will have a lot of options in that category.

Here are the best travel trailers for full time living.

Before we look into each of these travel trailers in detail, lets see the factors that we considered in choosing these.

How I choose these Travel Trailers

Buying an RV when you are looking for occasional travel or vacation is different as compared to living full time. Thus, choosing an RV here is a completely different process. A lot also depends on how you want to spend the life in RV.

There are different reasons why people choose to go full time. Some want to get rid of home, expenses and go minimalistic way. Others want that freedom to travel without any restriction. Some people retire and want to do this as long as they feel like doing it. Based on all these criteria’s you need to choose the RV.

In this list, we have all types of travel trailers that can suit different needs. Here are the factor we considered while choosing.

Living full time does have not have to be limited in terms amenities and features you get. You definitely want to travel but sometimes giving up on those basics and comfort needs is not why you choose this route. Specially those who are well with their finances, they just want to have that RV but with almost home like features.

Space is another luxury that comes into picture. Most people have this misconception that RV’s are very limited in space. But, that’s not the case always. Destination trailers are great in space and one can even travel with them. Sleeping capacity is another factor to consider, having that extra sleeping spot is always good when you are planning to stay in that RV for many years.

Other critical things include insulation on the trailer. You will be living year round and that means you need to stay in there for both summer as well as winter. Its better to go for 4 season RV which can be good for winter as well as summer.

When you want to start RVing and save on expenses, you cant just get that 100K travel trailer. For such people there options with limited expenses and yet good features that are good for full time living.

Travel trailers are great when it comes to cost/expenses as compared to motorhomes. You get similar features at almost half the price. The only thing is, you have to tow them, so you would need car to tow it. Fifth wheel also provide similar features with luxury but they tend to be costly and a truck is needed to pull them.

Tank capacity

Having good fresh water tank, holding tank capacity is critical when you are full time living. A small tank would put restriction on what you can do. Boondocking needs you to have good tank capacity. If you are good to camp all the time at a campground with hookup then you wont have any issues. But, more often people who go full time want to spend time with minimum costs where full hookup may not be present.

You don’t want a travel trailer that weighs a lot when you would be traveling a lot. This is not the case with destination trailers though, as in this case the main aim is to stay for prolonged duration with travel only when needed.

But, if you are going full time for extensive travel then getting a light weight trailer is critical. This, not only makes it easy to tow but also reduces the traveling expenses as your car or truck gives better miles per gallon.

Build Quality and Brand

When you would be buying an RV for full time, you want it to be reliable. You cant just get an RV that will need repairs more often. These travel trailers are reliable and have proven to be good enough for long term use. RVs in general can be costly in terms of repairs and maintenance, therefore getting the right model with solid build quality should be on your priority checklist.

Lets now check out each of the travel trailers in detail.

1. Airstream Classic

Airstream has its own aura and popularity. Those who have used airstream know exactly what it feels like. Airstream is expensive and popular. There are several models to choose from. Airstream classic is mostly suited for those who want to go full time.

Their unique looking body makes them easily recognizable. You can identify airstream among hundreds of parked RVs.

There is a reason why so much is being talked about them. The quality, long history and luxury defines them.

Classic is a quality built trailer that is suited for long travels and full time living. Its is given dedicated space for kitchen, living, bedroom and bathroom. You can expect interiors to be of quality what people usually speak of airstream in general.

With Airstream you can be sure that the RV would last very long, its shiny body does require maintenance but a whole lot less than any other travel trailer.

The layout is clean and you would hardly find anything to complain about. If you haven’t used airstream previously then be ready to get surprised with its quality and features.

Lets see some of the features of Airstream classic.

KEY FEATURES

• 4 Floorplans
• Length 30’ to 33’
• Have a smart control technology
• Enough space for 4 to 5 people
• Handcrafted and elegantly designed cabinets and drawers
• Heated shower floor plus towel bar
• With a built-in microwave and oven
• 9 cu. ft 2 way refrigerator
• Has net carrying capacity of 2212 lbs

A travel trailer that is equipped with the luxury you need when living in a travel trailer. There is high-quality equipment that suits you and your family’s daily needs.

The smart controls let you switch the light, GPS, heat pump, and air conditioner in a high-tech fashion.

The sizeable space will keep you living conveniently with lots of storage area so you can bring the things you need with you.

You won’t have fear of not having something to use when away from home because it is equipped with the daily things you need to live comfortably wherever you are.

• Smart technology
• Heated bathroom features
• Projected windows
• Oven plus stove connectivity
• Beautifully crafted cabinets and drawers
• Elegant interior design
• Expensive to some people’s standards.

2. Starcraft Mossy Oak Ultra Lite

This light weight travel trailer is a great option if you want to live full time. Its construction makes it light weight yet giving you all the basics features. The full kitchen and rear bathroom makes this RV a home away from home.

• 6 floor plans
• High rise faucet
• Option for an outdoor kitchen
• Many sleeping spaces for larger floor plans
• Different length of the floor plan to choose from
• 15,000 BTU Air conditioner
• Laundry shoot
• Queen sized bed in a private bedroom
• Power awning with LED lights
• L Shaped sofa for comfortable seating

Since there are many floor plans to choose from, it is also up to you to gain the needed space for the number of family members you have. Larger floor plans equal more sleeping spaces. It can even accommodate up to 5 people.

There is a free interior room, and a different layout is available. Originally you will have a comfortable bedroom, right-sized kitchen, and bunks in some floor plans.

It will depend on how much space you need and how many people will be with you in the trailer. But if it will just be your partner plus your two children, we can say that there is enough space for everyone to move around, and living full-time in this travel trailer will surely be an unforgettable experience.

This is a kid and pet friendly travel trailer that does not have carpet. Cleaning it is pretty easy and also features good storage compartment.

Mossy oak is suitable for those who want an adventure and yet want the facilities inside the RV.

• You have the freedom to choose the space that you need.
• Some simple customization is also doable.
• It is easy to live in luxury and comfort if you choose the bigger floor plan.
• The smallest floor plan may not be comfortable for a family over three. A bigger floor plan may be more ideal.

3. Coachmen Apex Ultra-lite Travel Trailer

There are several layout options to choose from. The model also has a toy hauler layout that costs a little higher. This travel trailer is a light weight RV that can be towed very easily by most standard cars.

Weight is a significant factor when towing and if you plan to travel extensively then this is the right choice for your full time living adventure. Not only does it weigh less but also provides abundance of features you wouldn’t want to miss.

• A total of 29 different floor plans to choose from
• A foam that is made of eco-friendly material is used for sleep mattress
• Availability of outside speakers with LED lights
• LED lights used for power awning
• A dedicated storage area at the front
• 6 Gallons Gas/Electric water heater
• 13,500 BTU Air conditioner
• LED Television
• Flush kit for blank tank
• Comes with metal skirt/fender skirt

All the fine luxury is here in this trailer. Whether you want a bigger space or perhaps a different interior set up, they can realize it for you. Customization is also not impossible if you need a few tweaks here and there to make your full time living, perfect in every way.

The Coachmen Apex is one of the most versatile trailers in the market. If you need space inside, all you have to do is slide some furniture in place to be replaced by a mattress. There is also additional storage space if you need it. There is also a kitchen inside and outside for when your family would like to have a cookout.

It includes all the basics plus other additions such as an outside speaker and solar prep, etc. With this travel trailer, you surely couldn’t ask for more.

The fiberglass exterior constriction makes this RV light and keeps the overall dry weight under lbs. that can be easily towed. Its is packed with modern features like LED lighting, power awning, back camera, USB ports to name few.

The value package is indeed awesome with all the basic amenities you would want in an RV for full time living. Apart from the standard package you get ton of options to add at additional cost.

• Bigger bedroom space with queen size beds.
• Spacious bathroom and lots of kitchen storage.
• Full kitchen inside and outside.
• Some minor fixes that are easy to deal with.

4. Lance Travel Trailer

If you are looking for downsizing with a modest travel trailer then lance travel trailer is a prefect option you can choose. These ultra light weight trailers are easy for towing and keep the overall monthly costs low.

There are several layout models to choose from and you will find something that just fits your family needs. There are different tow ratings based on which you can choose the right RV. You have those that weigh just under 4000 lbs to those weighing around 7000 lbs. Overall, the weight remains under check due to their solid construction which does not add too much weight.

Most of the plans have sleeping capacity of 4-5 people which is great for a small family.

• There are 11-floor plans to choose from
• It can accommodate up to 7 people
• Hardwood framed cabinet doors
• Great design
• There is a roof vent both for the living room and bedroom

This is an impressive travel trailer. With the many floor plans to choose from, they will not leave you hanging wondering which one to choose. Everything that you and your family will need is all here from a dinette, double door refrigerator, air conditioner, furnace, the electric awning, plus upgraded 13.5/15K BTU air conditioner.

If you want more, you can add upgrades and requests for some parts or areas to be customized.

The design is also not something to scoff at, from the hardwood framed cabinet doors to the elegant flooring, nothing is made hastily, but everything falls into its rightful place.

• Elegantly designed to also make you feel at home.
• The spacious interior space is just right for your family vacation or a weekend away from the city.
• You may have a hard time deciding which floor plan to choose since you have a lot of options.

5. Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite

This travel trailer is a light weight which can be towed by any SUV or truck. Its very comforting and a great option for those looking to live full time. Its constructed with great thought and the overall design looks pretty impressive.

It is made up of single piece roof which integrates into the walls making it last very long. Externally you will find power awning, LED lights and also number of USB ports. Its a great choice because of the brand name as well.

• With 18 floor plans to choose from
• Kitchen countertops with a solid surface
• They make the interior out of slate wood
• LED lighting is used everywhere
• Power awning with adjustable rain dump
• Inclusion of grill prep for outside cooking
• It is equipped with a 13,500 ducted Air conditioner
• Skylight for bathroom
• Some models are given fireplace as well
• 20,000 BTU furnace

You will surely have the time of your life with this travel trailer. Even if you are out there in the sunniest or cold area, you will have no problem with insulation because of the ducted furnace and a 13,500 BTU/AC you will surely be comfortable throughout.

Although this trailer is already equipped with the needed features and amenities, you can still add more. There are also color options if you want to change the look of your trailer.

There is already, the addition of solid surface kitchen countertops if you need extra space while cooking.

• Extreme weather is no issue because of the great insulation and AC BTU.
• Beautifully made and designed to look homey.
• Perfect for a bigger family.
• Some may find the travel trailer lacking in storage space compared to the other models.

6. Travel Lite Evoke

This is a next generation travel trailer that brings in safety, luxury and style along with loads of features. Its a classic travel trailer that will suit living lifestyle of many people. It comes with all the standard features and you can go ahead and add additional features based on your needs.

• 4 Floorplan option
• Length of 101’
• Great lighting that has impeccable standards
• Equipped with a high-quality sink
• Beautifully designed cabinets and drawers for your storage needs
• Space to install additional seating arrangement
• Can accommodate microwave oven, washing machine, and fridge
• 10 cu ft refrigerator
• Vinyl Flooring
• Smart powered awning

This travel trailer has the necessities you will need to live away from home. From the fridge, microwave, fireplace, TV, sofa, bedrooms, kitchen, and bathroom.

Equipped with a freshwater tank and a gray and wastewater tank.

There is also enough space in the kitchen as it is spacious for when you have to cook delicious meals, at any time, of the day.

A table can be arranged in a sizeable space so your entire family can eat in leisure.

It uses high grade material which gives it edge in terms safety and also the build quality. The king sized bed and stylish cabinetry makes the interiors worth spending time inside. The customization also makes it possible to have things as per your requirements.

• It can house up to 6 people.
• Spacious for you to move around.
• There is enough bedroom for everyone.
• An additional master bedroom for couples.
• Big kitchen for those who prefer home (trailer) cooked food.
• Price is more affordable.
• Some say it may not withstand too cold climates.

7. Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow

This park model travel trailer by Jayco is perfect if you want a home away from home . Its bit heavy but if you plan to spend longer duration at different locations then this is a perfect one for you.

With sleeping capacity for 4 , this is a perfect on the road home for small family looking for decent interiors and features.

KEY FEATURES:

• 6 Floor plans
• With an 18 cubic foot residential-style fridge in all floor plans
• A ceiling fan for both the living room and the bedroom, but not for the 40 LOFT and 40KFDS floor plans
• Loft with additional sleeping space for the 40LOFT floor-plan
• A big kitchen with residential refrigerator
• Ample space in bathroom and bedroom
• Front bath with adequate space
• 40,000 BTU furnace for keeping the trailer warm
• 60lbs of propane capacity

The Jay Flight Bungalow has an added ceiling fan for their travel trailers, not just one, but two except for the 40 Loft and 40 FKDS. While they include an additional toilet in the 40BHQS and 40FBTS, so if you like the additional feature, this is the way to go. The 40LOFT floor plan, on the other hand, has an additional sleeping space.

If you are particular with the size of your bathroom, the 40FBTS floor plan should be your option as it occupies the entire width of the front of the trailer, considered the best bathroom in the series of this travel trailer.

Although there are different added space and features for the floor plans mentioned, the convenience of this travel trailer is at par with the other high-end trailer. With the bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom, you can almost feel that you are home.

Packed with all the basic and home like features this isn’t a cheap option. Its for those who want all the basic amenities in under 60K. You can also get a used one at less than $40,000, which by the way can be a great deal.

The dry weight of this camper trailer is slightly above 11,000 lbs which will need a bigger truck to pull it. Since this type of models are mostly built for less travel, be sure you know what you are getting into. Such park models are suited when you want to spend longer duration at a location and move when you are done.

• Highly liveable and can be your full-time home.
• The homey feel of the interior also helped users sleep comfortably.
• Plenty of room for the entire family.
• The exterior looks average.
• Need to focus on the warranty.
• Customer service is poor and can be difficult to contact.

8. Winnebago Minnie Plus

If you are looking for good living space, decent storage then this highly rated travel trailer is right for your year round living needs. It has multiple spacious floor plans that are equipped with queen sized bed, private bathroom and loads of interior amenities.

The full slide out increases the space dramatically making it way more livable. Its lower end floor plan can occupy 4 people where as the bigger higher end ones can accommodate upto 8 people.

The slide out includes the dinette, sofa, folding sofa and theatre seating.

• Includes a 3-burner cooktop
• 8-cubic feet, double-door fridge
• 30,000 BTU furnace
• 15,000 BTU ducted AC
• Power Awning with LED lights

Pricey, but full of comfort. The Winnebago Minnie Plus travel trailer has 6 floor plans where some may have bunk beds and primary queen beds while others have a kitchen area with kitchen islands and an option for an outdoor pull-out kitchen. Another floor plan is where there is a separate bedroom with a bunk inclusion in the rear.

You can choose which feature matter to you most if you are after a good sleep most of the time and just plain relaxing with not much cooking, then you can purchase the one with bigger bedroom space. If you are more of concocting food to relish with your family while away from home, then you can opt for the one with a kitchen island and outdoor kitchen to boot.

Although there is a difference in layout and the expanse of each trailer, but the significant comfort needs are included on every trailer such as the full bathroom, a kitchen area, bedrooms, and such. Just less the additional features, which may also add to the price.

• Option for an outdoor kitchen.
• You can request for additional features or some customization.
• Best features at affordable price
• Multiple floorplans with varying configurations
• The bigger the floor plan you choose, the higher the price.

9. Gulf Stream Coach Conquest Lodge

This destination trailer has home like interiors, space and features. If you are looking for long term living in an RV then consider this destination trailer. It is packed with amenities you would want as a full time RVer.

With amenities like 35,000 BTU furnace, 15,000 BTU Air conditioner this can be your next four season home on the road.

• Beautiful and right-sized double-door fridge to accommodate many food items.
• With the inclusion of 4-burner cooktop
• There are enough drawers and cabinets for your everyday storage needs.
• An elegant fire-heater to ensure that you will not feel the cold during chilly nights.
• Huge bedroom for excellent comfort for the entire family
• Furnace up to 35,000BTU capacity, plus the 13500 ducted Air conditioning.

Living in a destination trailer gives you an edge of having bigger space and yet move when needed. Definitely its little hard to travel as compared to other lite trailers but remember it has a huge advantage in terms of space and amenities. They do weigh higher and you would need bigger SUV or high capacity truck to pull them.

This travel trailer is longer and has more space compared to other travel trailers in the market. There is more living area for you and your family. There is also an option to adjust and add more living space with the use of the slide outs.

This trailer is like your home away from home, from the woodgrain laminated flooring to the beautifully crafted hardwood cabinet, to the highly relaxing soft mattress, with all the trimmings to make your vacation highly enjoyable.

• Makes being away from home easier for you and your family cause you will feel at home here.
• The elegant design of the entire trailer plus the living space is just enough to keep you convenient while you travel.
• Have the free space and the high comfort needed for full time living.
• Designed for long family vacations.
• May be expensive for some because of the vast space this trailer has.

10. Hummingbird By Jayco

If you are looking for small travel trailer weighing just little below 3000 lbs then consider this option from Jayco. Its a perfect small travel trailer for couple to go full time. It comes with standard features good enough for full time living.

• 7-floor plans available
• The smallest line of travel trailers made by Jayco
• This is good for two to three people
• There is a different design option

This is the smallest coming from travel trailer from Jayco and can fit a family of three or just a couple. The seven-floor plans give you the freedom to choose the layout you like, the design that you prefer, and there are other areas that you can customize.

Some standard amenities may include sleeping spaces, rear exterior kitchen with quick connection faucet, TV, fridge, and microwave.

The bigger sized Hummingbird has a corner entertainment center, extensive wardrobe and pantry, residential-style kitchen countertops, and homey design.

• There are lots of overhead storage available.
• Rear kitchen with other extensions to make cooking outside a breeze.
• Bigger space is also another option for a bigger bed, wardrobe, and entertainment center.
• Mattress may not be the most comfortable to sleep in.

Know this before you buy

As you read initially, I choose these travel trailers on few basic important factors but that’s not all that one should consider. There are several other things to look more closely before buying.

So, i would recommend you to go through each of these options and check those things. The trailers that I choose are standard and popular in the industry and they do stand tall when most of the below factors are taken in.

Lets begin.

This is an incredibly important thing that you can’t ignore. There are minute details that need to be confirmed before deciding on the RV. A bathroom too small and compact can frustrate you over period of time. Where it is paced may affect your lifestyle as well. If you have been using RV then you know some of these things already. But, if its your first time into RV’s then be very careful not only with bathroom/toilet/shower but also each of the other things. Other things that you need to pay attention in bathroom are shower, door, ceiling, lighting and the toilet.

All of the trailers that we mentioned have multiple layouts to choose from. Choose the layout carefully. Here again having previous experience with using an RV will help a lot. Check several models/floor plans and visualize the pros and cons of each. Remember it is going to be with you for long term and you don’t want to get stuck with the wrong one. Kitchen is another important part of your full time RVing and you want it just to suit your daily life. Customization could be possible but how about getting it right in the first time itself?

Power options

Electric hookup may not be available all the time and that’s when you need a generator or solar to power. Choose based on what your electric consumption could be. Getting a built in generator is much better to your comfort. Go for such a configuration if you feel you will need that 4000 Watts generator to power your appliances.

Choose the size of refrigerator, air conditioner wisely as replacing them can be costly later on. Do a thoughtful analysis on what size AC/refrigerator you will be okay living with. Having said this, do the opposite analysis as well. You don’t want to pack the RV with appliances that wont be used or excessively larger that you will ever need.

Bedroom/Bed size/Mattress

Here again as i said earlier, choose the right sleeping capacity and also the right sized bed. When the family is big, you need to consider the size of each bed carefully. Mostly, the trailers will have convertible beds to utilize the space properly. Some sleeping spots will be inside the slide out as well.

Ask Yourself this questions

After we have gone through all the things to look for, i am sure many of you may still have doubts. Its because many of you don’t know what really you need in an RV. That could be because you may have not used the RV much or not at all.

When that is the case, ask yourself below questions and you should have a fair answer.

• How often will you travel with the RV? If you plan to travel a lot then go for a smaller, light weight travel trailer.
• Will you be camping at campground all the time or will you prefer staying at lower cost campsites or go boondocking? If yes, then be sure to have good power options like generator and solar.
• Do you have kids? Total how many people will be living? If kids will be living then be sure to look at the overall space available
• Will pets be living in the travel trailer?
• Is it going to be very cold region where you will stay?
• Do you already have a towing vehicle or will you need to buy a new one?
• Are you okay with towing a travel trailer? If no, then motorhome is your next option. Class C Motorhome is most suited for those with medium budget of around $90,000 to $120,000. If you can spend higher than 1200,000 then you can go for more luxurious class A Motorhome. Class B motorhome is for those who want compact and easy to driver RV.

If you still need to explore more on what you need then its better to actually try living in different RV’s by renting. This can give you lot of insights into how it is going to be.

With the continuous improvement in travel trailers, most of what is lacking in previous models is now improved. The development benefits new buyers, and they get to enjoy a more convenient and highly comfortable travel trailer.

In the following years, with the development and advancement in travel trailers, there may also be other choices of materials to use, which will answer some remaining concerns with travel trailers – the need for a more economical model that many people can afford.

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The 10 Best Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living

There are many things to love about small travel trailers, including their compact size, easy towability, and more affordable price.

But one of the biggest drawbacks of small trailers is they don’t always make great RVs for full-time living.

As small campers often lack interior space, features, and amenities that make full-time RVing not only doable but actually enjoyable.  

The good news, however, is there are actually quite a few small trailers on the road today that make ideal full-time RVs.

So to help you find all the best small travel trailers for full-time living , we’ve highlighted 10 of the most popular choices among full-time RVers.

By providing a quick overview of each camper, including its specs, floorplan, and why it’s great for full-time living.

Plus, we also include a video tour of each trailer from actual full-timers, to show you how they live in the RV full-time .

Popular Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living (Smallest to Largest)

1. scamp 13 standard trailer, quick specs.

• Average Cost : $17,000
• Length : 13 Feet
• Dry Weight : 1,200 – 1,500 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 4
• Bathroom : N/A
• Slide-Outs – None

Even though the Scamp 13 Standard Trailer won’t be for 99% of RVers looking for a small travel trailer to full-time in, due to its tiny size.

We still chose to include the 13-foot Scamp on this list.

As this ultra-compact lightweight camper from Scamp provides an important reminder that you can really live in any small camper, no matter its size or features.

And that’s exactly what Elsa Rhae and Barron from the above video prove, as they’ve lived in a 13-foot Scamp trailer for years.

Scamp 13 Standard Layout 1

Living in such a small space that’s technically only 10 feet of actual living space does require some pretty major sacrifices though.

As their Scamp floorplan, the Standard Layout 1 only offers a rear convertible dinette booth, a front bench that converts into tiny bunk beds, a little kitchenette, and a small amount of storage space. 

This means that this little stand-up camper has no bathroom, which can be a real issue if you’re trying to live in the trailer.

There is, however, a 13-foot Scamp floorplan, the Standard Layout 2 that does offer a small wet bath though instead of the front bench.

But adding this bathroom reduces the sleeping capacity of the trailer by two and makes the trailer feel even more cramped inside.

Regardless of floorplan though, the Scamp 13 is only suited to full-time RVers looking for the smallest and lightest camper possible that don’t mind sacrificing convenience and comfort to do so.

Why It’s Great for Full-Time Living

• Offers Versatile Convertible Dinette Booth
• Includes a Front Bench that Converts to Bunk Beds for Extra Sleeping Capacity
• Provides a Small Kitchenette for Cooking Meals
• Lots of Windows Helps the Trailer Feel Bigger Than It Is

For more information on the Scamp 13 Standard Trailer and to find out how to order one, check out Scamp’s website by clicking here .  

2. Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer

• Average Cost : $29,000
• Length : 16 Feet
• Dry Weight : 2,200 – 2,600 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 3
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Wet Bath

If you like the idea of the above 13-foot Scamp trailer but feel like it’s just too small for full-time living, you might want to check out the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer.

As the 16-foot Scamp offers not only an extra three feet of living space but also offers a wet bath on most of its floorplans, including the one featured here.

Because of this, the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer is what’s considered a self-contained camper, as it has everything you need to be self-sufficient.

Including a place to sleep, a place to cook and eat meals, and a place to use the restroom, all without leaving the trailer.

Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer Layout B

Because of the 16-foot Scamp’s smaller size though, this camper is really only suited for singles or couples like the ones in the above video, which upgraded from a tiny Toyota motorhome .

It’s amazing what you can do with such a small trailer that’s only 16 feet in length and 13 feet of living space though.

As this couple has everything they need to not just survive but thrive inside their ultra-compact lightweight camper.

And the best part is because this Scamp trailer is so small and lightweight, it can go places other RVs can’t and be pulled by smaller tow vehicles, like SUVs and small trucks .

Why It’s Great for Full-Time Living

• Fully Self-Contained Travel Trailer
• Offers a 3-Piece Wet Bath
• Wood Cabinetry Provides a Homey Feel Inside

To learn more about the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer and see its other floorplans, check out Scamp’s website by clicking here . 

3. Airstream Bambi 16RB

• Average Cost : $55,000
• Length : 16 Feet 1 Inch
• Dry Weight : 3,000 Pounds
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Wet Bath

Another great small travel trailer perfect for full-time singles or couples is the Airstream Bambi 16RB, which has a length of just over 16 feet and an unloaded vehicle weight of 3,000 pounds.

Putting the 16RB squarely in the ultra-lightweight compact travel trailer category.

Despite the camper’s smaller size though, the 16RB still has everything you’d need to full-time in the RV, including a fixed rear east-to-west full-size bed, a front convertible dinette booth, a little kitchenette, and a compact two-piece wet bath.

Airstream Bambi 16RB Floorplan

To be fair though, because of the camper’s tiny size, it’s not going to be for everyone looking to full-time in a small travel trailer.

As the Bambi 16RB has a very tiny wet bath, which might be fine for short camping trips but can get annoying long term.

As the bathroom is not only very cramped to use but everything is constantly wet inside, including the toilet seat.

Plus, the bathroom is only a two-piece wet bath and lacks a sink, forcing you to use the kitchen sink, as both the kitchen and bathroom sink.

In addition, because this camper is an Airstream, like all other Airstream models , the Bambi offers no slide-out, which can make the trailer feel cramped inside.

Also, it’s worth pointing out that while this Bambi trailer can sleep four, thanks to its front convertible dinette booth, for everyone’s sanity, it’s best not to use this camper for full-time family living, as it’s just too small for families.

• Provides a 2-Piece Wet Bath
• High-End Finishes Offer a Very Premium Feel Inside
• Has a Fixed East-to-West Bed Providing a Permanent Place to Sleep
• Offers a Versatile Convertible Dinette Booth
• Includes a Small Kitchenette for Cooking Meals

For more info on the Airstream Bambi 16RB, check out Airstream’s website by clicking here .

4. Forest River Viking 17SBH

• Average Cost : $21,000
• Length : 20 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight : 2,896 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 5
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Dry Bath

If at this point you’re thinking that only solo RVers or couples can full-time in a small travel trailer, the family of four in the above video should show you otherwise.

As this young family, with two little ones is living their best life in a 20-foot camper .

Specifically the Forest River Viking 17SBH, a bunkhouse camper capable of sleeping five, thanks to its front full-size bed, mid-convertible dinette booth, and rear single bunk beds. 

Forest River Viking 17SBH Floorplan

Popular with families or anyone needing to sleep a lot of people, bunkhouse travel trailers make the perfect small camper for full-time living.

As bunkhouse models offer sleeping capacity not possible in other RV trim levels and floorplans.

The Viking 17SBH offers more than just a large sleeping capacity though, as the trailer also offers a nice-size kitchenette for all your cooking needs and the first dry bathroom on this list.

As the 17SBH has a dry bath with a separate shower and toilet, which is always preferable to a wet bath in an RV, especially when you’re full-timing in one.

The bathroom in the Forest River Viking 17SBH is missing one component though to make it a true full bathroom, which is a bathroom sink and vanity.

Because of this, like the above Bambi 16RB, the Viking 17SBH requires you to use the kitchen sink as a bathroom sink as well, which is less than ideal when full-time RVing.

Overall, though this bunkhouse trailer is a great option for families wanting to full-time RV in a small travel trailer.

• Large Sleeping Capacity Ideal for Full-Time RV Families
• Bunkhouse Design Provides a Separate Private Space for Kids
• Offers a 2-Piece Dry Bath
• 12-Foot Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space
• Fixed East-to-West Bed Provides a Permanent Place to Sleep
• Includes a Nice Size Kitchenette for Cooking Meals
• Ample Interior and Exterior Storage Space

To learn more about the Forest River Viking 17SBH, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here . 

5. Dutchmen Coleman 17B

• Average Cost : $20,000
• Length : 21 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight : 2,985 Pounds

Another great bunkhouse camper great for full-time family living is the Dutchmen Coleman 17B, which has a very similar floorplan to the above Forest River Viking 17SBH.

In fact, these two compact travel trailers have pretty much the exact same layout, with a front east-to-west bed, a mid-kitchen, and a rear dry bath.

As well as rear single bunk beds, which is always great for kids.

As bunk beds provide a personal space in the RV kids can call their own, acting like their bedroom.

Dutchmen Coleman 17B Floorplan

As similar as these two trailers are though, there are a few differences between the two.

Starting with the front fixed bed, as this camper offers a short RV queen bed , while the above Viking 17SBH only offers a full-size bed.

In addition, this model features a side-mount air conditioner, while the Viking 17SBH offers a roof-mount air conditioner.

Overall, though both bunkhouse campers are great, and so similar that if you’re trying to decide between the two it really comes down to personal tastes more than anything else.

As both small bunkhouse trailers make a great home for full-time RVing with kids.

• Has a Large Fixed East-to-West RV Queen Bed 
• Includes a Nice Size Kitchenette with Lots of Cabinet Space

For more information on the Dutchmen Coleman 17B, check out Dutchmen’s website by clicking here .

6. Airstream Bambi 22FB

• Average Cost : $65,000
• Length : 21 Feet 11 Inches
• Dry Weight : 3,900 Pounds
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Dry Bath

There’s nothing cheap about Airstreams, as this Airstream Bambi and the above Bambi (#3 on the list) prove.

As Airstreams are some of the most expensive travel trailers you can buy.

As the old saying goes though, “ You get what you pay for ”, and this is just as true about RVs as anything else.

Because while the Airstream Bambi, which is the smallest “Silver Bullet” trailer Airstream makes is expensive, it also offers features, finishes, and benefits you won’t find on any other camper.

Including an all-aluminum hand-riveted interior and exterior shell, high-quality modern finishes and components, excellent value retention, superb build quality and longevity, and an iconic timeless brand.

Airstream Bambi 22FB Floorplan

And while these things might not be as important to weekend warriors on a budget, for full-time RVers, spending a little more on the camper might make sense.

Because let’s face it, you’ll be spending far more time in the RV than your typical RVer that might only spend a few weeks a year in the trailer.

Speaking specifically about the Bambi 22FB though, this premium small camper from Airstream continues to be a top pick for full-time RVers and Airstream Owners , thanks to its well laid out floorplan and top-notch amenities.

As the Bambi 22FB offers a private front bedroom with panoramic windows, a large fixed east-to-west bed, and a privacy curtain.

As well as a large U-shaped convertible dinette booth and a well-equipped kitchen, with everything you need for meal prep and cooking.

Plus, the 22FB is also the first trailer on this list to offer a true three-piece dry bath, with a separate shower, toilet, and bathroom sink.

Why It’s Great For Full-Time Living

• More Premium Finishes and Appliances
• Has a Private Front Bedroom with a Divider Curtain
• Offers a Full 3-Piece Dry Bath
• Has a Large Convertible U-Shaped Dinette Booth for Lounging and Eating
• Includes a Larger Well-Equipped Kitchen
• Ample Interior Storage Space

To learn more about the Airstream Bambi 22FB and why it makes a great camper for full-time living, check out Airstream’s website by clicking here .

7. Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE 

• Average Cost : $33,500
• Dry Weight : 4,674 Pounds
• Slide-Outs – 1

There are many things that make the Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE the perfect small couple’s travel trailer for full-time living.

However, there are four main ones that really stand out.

Starting first with its Murphy bed, as the Imagine XLS 17MKE features a front queen Murphy bed that folds away to reveal a large couch underneath.

Allowing the front of the trailer to serve as both a living room and a bedroom, which is ideal for a camper that’s only 22 feet in length.

As the Murphy bed layout allows you to maximize the space inside the trailer.

Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE Floorplan

Another noteworthy feature of this Grand Design Imagine that makes it ideal for full-timers is its mid-slide-out.

As the trailer’s slide helps to open up the interior and gives it a much more spacious feel, which makes living in the trailer much more comfortable as well as enjoyable.

The large rear corner dry bath is also a nice touch on this trailer.

As Grand Design managed to fit a surprisingly spacious and well-equipped bathroom with an extra large countertop in this compact camper.

The best and last feature that makes the trailer perfect for full-time RV living though has to be its large L-shaped kitchen.

As the RV kitchen in the Imagine XLS 17MKE is second to none for a travel trailer its size.

As the 17MKE has tons of cabinet and counter space, an 8 cubic foot double door refrigerator, a three-burner gas stove with an oven, a microwave, and a deep stainless steel sink with a residential-style faucet.

Making this trailer perfect for amateur chefs or for anyone that just loves to cook.

• Murphy Bed Layout Maximizes Interior Space
• Slide-Out Provides a More Open and Spacious Interior
• Has a Massive Upgraded L-Shaped Kitchen
• 14-Foot Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space

For more info on the Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE and to see a virtual tour of the interior, check out Grand Design’s website by clicking here .

8. Forest River R-Pod RP-192

• Average Cost : $25,500
• Length : 22 Feet 2 Inches
• Dry Weight : 4,059 Pounds

The Forest River R-Pod is one of the most popular small campers on the road today.

But what many people don’t know is that they also make great full-time RVs.

As all R-Pod trim levels, except for the smallest teardrop (RP-107) are fully self-contained campers with a wet or dry bath .

There’s more to this Forest River R-Pod RP-192 than just its bathroom though.

As the camper is also packed with other amenities that allow it to function as a home.

Including a queen Murphy bed with a comfy sofa underneath, a well-equipped kitchenette with a large double-door refrigerator, a convertible dinette booth for two, and plenty of interior and exterior storage space.

Forest River R-Pod RP-192 Floorplan

Just because the RP-192 has everything it needs to function as a home though, doesn’t necessarily make it one, as it’s often the interior and its decor that really help the camper feel like a home.

The good news though is that this is where the R-Pod RP-192 really shines.

As the trailer has a spacious interior despite its curved teardrop shape, residential-style shaker cabinetry, designer carefree flooring, decorative window treatments, accent lighting, and mini blinds in the kitchen.

• Has a Well-Equipped Kitchenette
• Upgraded Interior Decor Help it Feel Like a Home
• 11-Foot Power Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space

For more info on the Forest River R-Pod RP-192 and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .

9. Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S

• Average Cost : $33,000
• Length : 22 Feet 4 Inches
• Dry Weight : 4,977 Pounds

Another popular small couples trailer that makes a great RV for full-time living is the Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S.

As this Rockwood Mini Lite, which the above couple calls home is loaded with comfort and convenience features.

Beginning with the trailer’s Murphy bed layout, which allows you to use the front of the camper as both a bedroom and a living room, thanks to the trailer’s fold-up RV queen and sofa underneath.

A nice feature the 2104S has though that not all Murphy bed floorplans have is a privacy curtain separating the front of the camper from the rest of the living space.

Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S Floorplan

Which makes the RV particularly ideal for full-timers.

As the privacy curtain helps to provide some separation and a semi-private front bedroom, allowing one person to stay up without disturbing the other.

Beyond the trailer’s Murphy bed layout though, the couch under the bed isn’t the only place to sit in this camper, as the Mini Lite 2104S also features a large comfy U-shaped dinette booth as well.

Which not only provides a place to share a meal but also makes a great place to just hang out and relax.

And because the U-shaped dinette booth is built on a slide-out, it also helps to open up the interior of this tiny camper.

Giving the RV a much more open and spacious feel than you might expect from a travel trailer that’s only 22 feet long. 

The amenities don’t stop there though on the 2104S, as the camper also offers a full three-piece dry bath as well.

Plus, an upgraded small L-shaped kitchen with a battery-saving 12-volt fridge, a three-burner gas cooktop, a 21-inch gas oven, a microwave, a pantry, and solid surface countertops.

• Has an Upgraded L-Shaped Kitchen
• Oversized 15-Foot Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S and to see a 3D interior tour, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .

10. Lance 2285

• Length : 27 Feet 6 Inches
• Dry Weight : 5,775 Pounds
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Split Dry Bath

The last trailer on this list of small campers for full-time living certainly isn’t the least.

In fact, the Lance 2285 is the largest trailer on this list with an exterior length of 27 feet 6 inches and an interior length of 22 feet 6 inches.

Comparatively speaking though, the 2285 is still a pretty small travel trailer, as there are many campers that are 30 feet long and some that are over 40 feet long !

With that extra length and size though, the Lance 2285 is able to offer interior space and amenities smaller campers never could.

Making the 2285 model a great option for those wanting a smaller full-time trailer, but don’t want to go too small.

As they still want some of the comfort and luxury that only a larger travel trailer can offer.

And the Lance 2285 trailer does a great job of accomplishing this.

Lance 2285 Floorplan

As this semi-small camper is on the shorter and lighter side while offering features a 24-foot camper and even a 26-foot camper never could.

As this condensed trailer offers over 22 feet of floor space, both a large U-shaped dinette booth and a couch, dual entrances, a larger kitchen, and a private front bedroom with a fixed north-to-south bed.

And because this trailer is a Lance , it offers true 4-season capability for year-round living in the trailer.

Thanks to numerous cold-weather features, like high-density block foam insulation, an enclosed underbelly, insulated and heated holding tanks, and Thermopane windows.

Making the trailer ideal for RVers that want to full-time in colder weather, and don’t always want to head South when the temperature starts to drop outside.

Why It’s Great for Full-Time Living  

• Four Season Capability
• Has a Private Front Bedroom with a Separate Entrance
• Offers a Split 3-Piece Dry Bath
• Lots of Seating
• Includes a Larger Well-Equipped Rear Kitchen

To learn more about the Lance 2285, check out Lance’s website by clicking here .

Finding the perfect small travel trailer for full-time RV living is no small feat. 

As every RVer is going to have different needs and wants for their full-time rig, whether that be a spacious living room with a slide-out, a well-equipped kitchen, a large sleeping capacity, a full bathroom, or lots of extra storage space.

However, with a little research and some careful consideration, finding that perfect small camper is definitely achievable.

So to help you get started, we explored 10 of the most popular options for full-time small RV living , each offering unique features and benefits that cater to different RV lifestyles.

From the ultra-compact and lightweight Scamp 13 Standard Trailer to the spacious and luxurious Lance 2285.

Regardless of which trailer you choose though, we hope this list has helped narrow down your search or at least shown what’s possible in a small camper.

So you can embrace the minimalist lifestyle, enjoy the beauty of nature, and have the freedom to immerse yourself in diverse experiences only found on the open road.

To see some of the top RV Parks for full-time living, check out our blog post “ Best RV Parks for Full-Time Living: By State” .

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.

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Travels with Ted

The 8 Best RVs for Full Time Living (Expert Picks!)

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

There are many factors to consider when selecting the best RVs for full time living:

• Is buying new or used a better value?
• What size RV is best for your family?
• Is a travel trailer or motorhome better suited for full time travel?
• Which features are most important for your everyday life?

To help you narrow down which RV is best for you, 8 experts and full time RVers share why they picked their RV and what they would change about their current rig.

• 1.1 Dan and Lindsay McKenzie of Follow Your Detour
• 1.2 Alowetta and Marc Terrien of Explorateurs
• 1.3 Shirley and Erez Weinstein of Zula Life
• 1.4 Leigh and Austin Ducworth of Bounding Around
• 2.1 Adam and Lindsey Nubern of Nuventure Travels
• 2.2 Jesse and Rachael Lyons of The Taste for Adventure
• 2.3 Tina and Craig Klinefelter of Free as Wheel Ever Be
• 2.4 Justin Baney and Christina Pate of Travels with Ted
• 3.2 Drive or Tow

Best Motorhome RVs for Full Time Living

Many RVers believe that Class C or Class A motorhomes are the best RVs for full time living because they are comfortable for long travel days. Drive-able RVs also give you more flexibility to chose an everyday vehicle instead of having to drive a heavy duty truck.

Dan and Lindsay McKenzie of Follow Your Detour

Their RV: 2018 Winnebago Navion, 25 foot Class C

Family Size: Couple with 2 Dogs (Kyla and Pepper)

Why their RV is great for full-timing:

We started with a fifth wheel and found that we weren’t as mobile as we wanted. We decided we wanted something a bit more maneuverable – where we could pull off the side of the road for photos or pit stops and not have to stress about where we could and couldn’t fit. So length was a huge part of it. Since we travel fast, it’s so much easier to just hop in and go, we can park anywhere, and travel days are a breeze. I (Lindsay) even feel comfortable driving it, so we can take turns! But we also loved the layout, which makes 25 feet feel spacious because of the murphy bed. When the murphy bed is up, we also have a couch under it, which gives us a separate dining area and sitting/lounging area. Another great thing about it is the workspace option. We have a detachable table that can be put between the passenger and driver seat or in front of the couch and also a comfy dinette so we have 3 workspace areas! 

What they wish they could change:

The price tag. We pay a pretty big monthly payment, and we also don’t love the interior design. We don’t have a lot of windows because of the murphy bed so it feels a bit dark and dingy at times! Other than that, we love it!

Alowetta and Marc Terrien of Explorateurs

Their RV: 2003 Travel Supreme, 40 foot Class A

Family Size: Couple with 1 Dog (Mac)

Early on, we decided that a motorhome fit our needs better than a fifth wheel. We did not own a truck, and motorhomes provide more storage, which is very important for full-timers. Also, we decided that we would search out an older, high-end motorhome with more solid construction. We were fortunate to find a motorhome that was a one-owner (they purchased brand new from the factory), with only 46,000 miles on it. The previous owners spent winters in it, but really didn’t drive it that much. Our motorhome has full maple wood cabinetry throughout the home, and the wood is all very light-colored. This gives the home a much larger feel.

We love our home, and even though we have frequented many RV s hows over the years, we have never found a better RV for full time living than our own. Our RV has lots of storage, both inside the rig and below in the basement. We took out the dinette because we needed workspace and that continues to serve our purpose. We would love to have the carpet and tile replaced, but because it was a high-end coach, the tile and carpet go completely under the kitchen slide and bathroom, so we would have to have an RV shop remove the slides to replace everything. Maybe someday!

Shirley and Erez Weinstein of Zula Life

Their RV: 2012 Fleetwood Bounder 34B, 34 foot Class A

Family Size: Couple with 2 Kids (8 and 10 years old) and a Cat

We chose this setup mostly because our drive days are super easy. The setup and tear down is a breeze and during the drive the kids can use the bathroom and grab stuff out of the fridge. We like to move fast, and don’t stay long at each stop so those features were very important to us.

We really like our setup and added some improvements to fit us like adding solar system and cosmetic changes like adding more whites vs. all that dark brown and beige. I really wish the RV industry would have more design options that fit younger generations and not just retirees .

Leigh and Austin Ducworth of Bounding Around

Their RV: 2000 Fleetwood Bounder, 31 foot Class A

Family Size: Married Couple

We wanted a smaller RV so we wouldn’t be limited by size on where we could go (especially National Parks).  The layout of the Bounder worked well for what we wanted too.  Also, we knew we would be remodeling a bit, so we could both have office space in the RV (we both work remotely).  So, it didn’t make sense to us to buy something newer only to rip out part of it!

Honestly, we really love our Bounder!  Sure there are some features that come with newer rigs that would be nice, but we really do love our Bounder like it is!

Best Travel Trailers and 5th Wheel RVs for Full Time Living

On the other side of the argument, many families think travel trailers are the best RVs for full time living because of their price and layout. The range of trailers these nomads recommended for full time living is quite wide with their rigs raging from 17 to 40 feet.

Adam and Lindsey Nubern of Nuventure Travels

Their RV: 2009 Casita Spirit Deluxe, 17 foot Travel Trailer

Family Size: Couple with a Newborn Baby

We started off living in a minivan in New Zealand. The seats were taken out of the back for bed. One week of constant rain on the Coromandel Peninsula had us thinking that there has to be a better way. The other issue is that we always had to pack up the van to head into town. After chatting with some Kiwi folks that had travel trailers, we figured out that is more our style. A travel trailer allows us to drop the home but still use the tow vehicle to go explore. We tend to stay at least two weeks in one place at a time, so this works great for us.

Now that we have a 3rd Nubern on board, We’re curious if we will have enough space for us all.

Jesse and Rachael Lyons of The Taste for Adventure

Their RV: 2002 Keystone Cougar, a 29 foot Fifth Wheel

We were shopping from the get go for full-time living. We also needed enough space in the “main room” for both of us to work at desks since we work full-time as digital nomads. When we first starting looking at RVs we knew we wanted a trailer for the flexibility to unhitch and have a day vehicle. Once we started visiting RV shows to explore models it was immediately apparent that we wanted a fifth wheel. We love fifth wheel layouts. The high ceilings make it feel more like an apartment and the bedroom is usually separate which makes the space feel bigger. Once we knew we wanted a fifth wheel, our biggest requirement was lots of windows, in particular a big back window. Since there’s only two of us we wanted one bedroom space, and we wanted the shortest fifth wheel we could get to make it easier for us newbies to haul.  Finally, we bought used and renovated, so our final decision was based on price and condition of the trailer.

We ended up changing a lot about the RV when we renovated! To open up the space, we took out the cabinets in the slide. We also converted the media center into a second closet, replaced the battery, installed a solar suitcase , replaced the dining booth, sofa and bathroom sink, installed a desk, painted everything and installed laminate floorboards. We really created an RV we love from a good layout. But our fifth wheel is old, so sometimes we talk about upgrading to a newer model. Our wish list for a future trailer includes a kitchen island, higher bedroom ceilings, automatic leveling, better tank gauges and a better solar set up.

Tina and Craig Klinefelter of Free as Wheel Ever Be

Their RV: Jayco Pinnacle, 40 foot Fifth Wheel

We wanted something that didn’t feel cramped since we would be living, working and traveling in the RV full-time, so we went with a 40 foot fifth wheel which is around 400 square feet. The fifth wheel not only has more space than most motorhomes but it also has high ceilings that make the rig feel bigger. We chose a model with 1.5 baths because we wanted to encourage guests to join us on the road and feel comfortable knowing they didn’t have to share a bathroom. It also allows us to have more storage space, and we get a larger master bath with double sinks as a bonus.

The only thing I would change about our RV is to have a separate working area to get a tax deduction.

Justin Baney and Christina Pate of Travels with Ted

Their RV: Grand Design Reflection, 34 foot Fifth Wheel

Family Size: Married Couple with a Dog and a Cat (Ted and Mr. Man)

Our RV has a great layout for full time living. The main room has a large kitchen, room for a desk and a comfortable living area. The fifth wheel also has high ceilings for Justin, who is 6 feet, 7 inches tall. We preferred a towable RV with a truck, so we would have a vehicle for day trips. We also loved the amount of storage space in our Reflection, which has a large closet in the bedroom. A fifth wheel was also a great choice for us because the area behind interior staircase provides the perfect place to keep our cat’s litter box .

The only thing we would really change is the size of our RV. The 34 foot length limits where we can park and boondock. For our next RV, we will still choose a fifth wheel, but we will select a model under 30 feet.

How to Select the Best RV for Full Time Living

Now that you’ve seen the experts’ picks for the best RVs for full time living, it’s time to start shopping for your own home on wheels.

When shopping for an RV, always set your budget before you start browsing RVs. You do not want to find your perfect RV only to discover that you cannot afford it.

Unsure of what your monthly expenses will be like living in an RV? Use our RV Living Budget Calculator to better understand the real cost of RV life.

Drive or Tow

The next major consideration when selecting an RV is whether you want to drive a motorhome or tow a trailer.

The main advantage of motorhomes is comfort during travel. In a drivable RV, you have easy access to your kitchen and bathroom on travel days. However, motorhomes generally cost more than travel trailers. Full time RVers who live in a Class A or Class C typically need to tow a car for everyday use.

Travel trailers and fifth wheels are the preferred RVs for many full time families. These towable RVs generally have homier layouts and are less expensive. However, trailers will require a tow vehicle large enough to handle the weight of the RV.

If you are unsure what type of RV is best for your needs, see our guide to the best RVs for every family size .

The final major consideration when selecting the best RV for full time living is size. There is no perfect size RV, but the length of your RV will impact your travels.

Some full time families choose large RVs to maximize sleeping space and privacy for kids. On the other hand, adventurous full time RVers often choose smaller RVs so they can access smaller, more remote camping areas.

Thanks for reading out guide on the best RVs for full time living!

As you can tell, there are several factors that will play into the decision of which RV is best for your full time lifestyle. Before shopping, consider how fast you will travel, how many beds you need and what size workspace you require.

Whichever RV you choose, I can assure you that full time RVing will be an amazing journey. Check our article on the pros and cons of RV life for more inspiration.

Are you already on the road or dreaming of full time travel? Share your dream full time RV in the comments below.

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 .

2 thoughts on “The 8 Best RVs for Full Time Living (Expert Picks!)”

Great tips and ideas from this newsletter. We’re looking at 5th wheels also, retiring next year. I’m doing the research since Brad is still working. I love the double vanities and additional 1/2 bath. I do not like the open concept of living room and kitchen together, so we’re looking at separate living areas. Having a laundry room is a must also.

As for brands, my little survey among friends are coming up with Grand Design 380WB-R and Cedar Creek champagne 38EFK.

I CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED!!

That is great! We love our Grand Design but it is open concept

Comments are closed.

Best Travel Trailers – Complete Buyer’s Guide

Also referred to as towable RVs, travel trailers offer you the comfort of your home while you are on the road. However, choosing the best travel trailer for yourself from a variety of thousands can be difficult. 

They're perfect for a trip to the beach, mountains, or just to get away from the city and chill in an RV park. Whatever the reason, a travel trailer will be one of the best decisions you can make for your family’s enjoyment.

Travel trailers differ from motorhomes in that they're towable. However, they're similar design to 5th wheels , and although they're not as luxurious, they can be as spacious as and much cheaper than fifth wheels .

Today, there are so many types of trailers, so you need to be careful when looking to buy one. There are a number of things to consider, and it's always a good idea to rent the model you intend to buy beforehand.

That said, to help you select the best travel trailer for your next road trip, this article will be of great help. You will also find a helpful buying guide below to further assist you in decision making. 

What is a Travel Trailer?

A travel trailer acts as a towable unit that consists of solid walls, along with other features such as kitchens, living rooms, and plenty of storage and cupboards. 

The purpose of a travel trailer is to offer homey comfort to you when you are on the road. Compared to other RVs such as 5th wheels , travel trailers are smaller in size but offer very similar designs and features. 

• Radius entry door 
• Full LED lighting interior 
• Rooms have electric slide doors
• Comes with solar panel and Wi-Fi prep
• Exterior is made with high-grade aluminum
• Number of Floorplans: 17 
• Length: 22 to 30 feet

If you are a little tight on the budget, but still don’t want to compromise on your comfort during the traveling experience, then the Shasta travel trailers are your best pick. 

These trailers are all affordable and also more lightweight and well-built. They feature well-lit interiors and exteriors, with the exterior being built with high-grade aluminum to ensure longevity. 

Also, the trailers feature back-up camera prep, along with Wi-Fi options and solar panel prep as well. The entry doors are the most distinctive feature of these trailers since the radial entrance with a protective screen makes it stand out. 

Extra features that further make this the best choice include safety features, including smoke detector, LP leak detector, and fire extinguisher. 

Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailer: Jayco Eagle HT

How Long Do Travel Trailers Last?

A good, reliable travel trailer will last somewhere between 10 and 12 years, but it depends on how often you use it and how well you look after it.

What Does GVWR Mean on a Travel Trailer?

GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating . This is the maximum weight that the trailer can take while operating. This weight will also include the trailer’s own components, such as wheels. 

Should You Cover Your Travel Trailer?

If you are traveling to an area with lots of rain or unpredictable weather, it is advised to cover it with various types of covers found on the market. These will protect it from the harsh elements of nature, including rain, snow and strong sunshine.

The Best Travel Trailers - Perfect Companions for Road Trips

So, there you have it: the best travel railers. It's important to note, however, that there are many different travel trailer sizes and designs that suit different people.

Overall, if you are searching for a travel trailer, you will have to make several considerations before you can make the final choice. The best trailer is the one that meets your needs, gives you comfort on your traveling days, and does not require lots of maintenance. 

All of the above are recommended, but don't let this be your final stop. it's essential that you get the right one, because you'll hopefully be spending a lot of time in yours. Whichever trailer you go for, however, we're sure you've made the right decision and will start making many amazing memories. Happy camping!

Travel Trailer Buyer Guides

If you are looking for more travel trailer-specific guides, here they are:

• Forest River Travel Trailers Reviews
• For Jeep Wranglers
• For Retired Couples
• Lightweight
• Travel Trailer Insurance
• Travel Trailers Under 3000 Lbs
• Under 4000 Lbs
• Under 5000 Lbs
• Under 8000 Lbs
• Vintage Travel Trailer Manufacturers
• Wheel-Bearing Grease
• Jayco Travel Trailers
• Best Brands
• Bunkhouse Under 30 Feet
• Travel Trailer Accessories
• Dry Camping
• For Families
• For Full-Time Living
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What Type of RV Is Best for Full-Time Living

• RV LIFE Masterclass
• October 14, 2021
• One Comment

Table of Contents

If you’re thinking about becoming a fulltimer, you’ll need the right rv.

RVing is trending, and with more people working remotely than ever before, people are hitting the road year-round. So what’s the best RV for full-time living? Well, it depends on a few factors and individual needs, but there is an answer. We’re about to reveal the best of the best and some great runners up. Ready? Let’s dig in!

Is Any RV Good for Full-Time Living?

It’s difficult for someone who’s never gone RVing to know what brand or floor plan might work for full-time living. Ultimately, the best RV for full-time living is going to be an individual preference. Some solo travelers are content in a conversion van.

Others prefer a large Class A motorhome with multiple slideouts, a large kitchen, and similar amenities to a traditional house. Those traveling with kids often gravitate toward fifth wheels with bunk rooms and lofts for extra sleeping space.

So, yes, there are RVs that are good for full-time living. However, you have to keep in mind that while you can customize an RV, there’s no perfect RV. In other words, you’re subject to whatever the manufacturer builds and is within your budget. That may mean having to give up some wants on your list. This is why we recommend making a want and need list when shopping for your full-time living RV.

What to Look for in a Permanent RV Home

Do you have your want and need list ready? We’ve identified four categories to keep in mind when writing your list and searching for a permanent RV home. 

Size matters when you’re living in an RV full time. Visualize how much space you need in the practical sense and how small of an area you think you’d be happy with for the long term. If you’ve never traveled in an RV, a great way to find out what size you need is by renting some RVs for a trial run. 

Once you’ve determined what size you need, start looking for brands that carry what you’re looking for. If you want a large fifth wheel for a family of four and need to have bunk beds, search for fifth wheels from 36 to 42 feet long. Giving yourself a small range will help narrow down your preferences. Keep an open mind while shopping, but don’t back down on your needs.

Consider how you intend to use your RV. For example, will you be traveling every two weeks? Are you planning to boondock? Or will you be stationary on a seasonal lot for six months out of the year and only move the RV a few hundred miles? 

Mobility matters when looking for a permanent RV home. For example, if you’re moving from place to place every two weeks, a large destination trailer isn’t the way to go. Instead, choose an RV based on how mobile you’re going to be. 

Travel Trailer or Motorhome?

Choosing between a travel trailer or a motorhome for full-time living is a common hangup. If you already have a truck to tow a travel trailer, it may seem like the more budget-friendly approach. But consider what will make you happiest. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. 

If you’re remaining stationary for months at a time, a motorhome likely isn’t the best choice. Motorhomes have more longevity when used regularly. They’re great for frequent travelers. Travel trailers require less maintenance and are better for remaining stationary for some time.

Extra Features

As you’re shopping for RVs, keep going back to your list of wants and needs. You’ll find that RV manufacturers differ in the features they offer. Keep track of which ones you discover will add to the comfort of your full-time living. Remember, this is your house even though it’s on wheels. You won’t be disappointed if you add on some extra creature comforts.

What Is the Best RV for Full-Time Living?

So what’s the best RV for full-time living? We found a clear winner. Our recommendation is the Venetian F42, a Class A diesel pusher motorhome by Thor Motor Coach.

Thor Venetian F42

The Thor Venetian F42 has a sleeping capacity of seven and three slide-outs, including one mega slide. It also has one and a half bathrooms. The full bathroom has two sinks and a shower with a seat. You’ll find opposing seating in the living area with a theater-style loveseat on one side and a 92-inch sofa on the other. 

Thor’s Venetian F42 has a large kitchen with plenty of counterspace and a residential refrigerator. In addition, you get to choose from a booth dinette or a buffet dinette with chairs. The rear master bedroom has a king inclining bed, and there’s also a drop-down bunk above the cab.

The Venetian F42 is a diesel pusher with a Cummins 8.9L engine on a Freightliner XC-R chassis. It’s 43 feet. The GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is 44,700 pounds. In addition, the fresh water tank capacity is 91 gallons, the gray tank holds 70 gallons, and the back tank holds 51 gallons.

The Venetian F42 has 215 cubic feet of outside storage, which gives you lots of room to carry gear. It also has loads of storage on the inside, including a large wardrobe in the master bedroom. You also get a stackable washer and dryer in the bedroom, recessed induction cooktop, and residential refrigerator. 

What Other RVs Are Good for Full-Time Living?

While Thor’s Venetian F42 is the best RV for full-time living, it’s not the only one. Here are three other RVs that are good for full-timing.  

Keystone Montana

About: Keystone’s Montana is a luxury fifth wheel that comes in nine floor plans. The models range in length from 35 to 41.4 feet. They each have large kitchens with islands and plenty of living space and storage. 

Best Full-Time Features: Montana’s are comfortable, modern, and roomy. Each floor plan has living room seating for at least five people, along with a cozy fireplace and entertainment center. In addition, the high ceilings make the fifth wheel seem more open.

Airstream Classic

About: The Airstream Classic has four floor plans. Two are 30 feet, and the other two are 33 feet. Airstream builds quality travel trailers that are long-lasting, which is a perk for full-time RV living. Each floor plan sleeps five people.

Best Full-Time Features: Airstream’s Classic has a large kitchen for cooking at home. It has hardwood cabinetry and Corian countertops. The bathroom is also highly sought after when RVing full-time. It has a residential-style layout with a large shower, mirrored double-door wardrobe, and a heated shower floor and towel bar.

Grand Design Reflection

About: Grand Design’s Reflection fifth wheel has eight floor plans. They range in size from 32.9 to 41 feet. In addition, the Reflection has a four-season protection package with maximum insulation, which makes it a great choice if you’ll be RVing in cold climates. 

Best Full-Time Features: The Reflection offers very spacious floor plans for full-time living. It includes models with bunk rooms in varying configurations. Grand Design also offers several options to build your Reflection out to suit your individual needs. 

Should You Buy New or Used RV for Full-Time Living?

Purchasing a new RV for full-time living means that you’re not inheriting someone else’s problems. In addition, new models come with warranties, so you can rely on them for issues that are the manufacturer’s fault. On the other hand, used RVs have likely worked through any warranty work, and the previous owner will hopefully be upfront about anything they’ve fixed. And used RVs typically cost less than new ones.

Buying new or used is ultimately a personal preference. But we think buying new when you’re living in an RV full-time is a good choice. You may be able to customize the RV, and you know what you’re getting into from day one.

Are You One Step Closer to Full-Time Living?

Are you ready for full-time RVing? If so, we hope you get into the best RV for full-time living that suits your needs. Remember to check off your needs list and try to get as many things on your wants list as you can.

You May Also Like:

Gas or diesel motorhome which is right for you, 6 affordable 2024 class a motorhomes for less than $250k, how much we really spend rving full-time each month, 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, 10 best lightweight travel trailers for 2023, one thought on “ what type of rv is best for full-time living ”.

I’m so surprised Durango Gold models aren’t in this list. We full time in one with our two children. It’s manufactured and warranted for full time usage.

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Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple

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This article summarizes the Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple under the following categories: travel trailers under 26 feet and 30 feet for a full-time living couple . Options with a king-size bed and more luxury options include couples’ travel trailers with a washer and dryer , a desirable feature for full-time living. Floor plans reviewed in this article are on the current market, and prices are 2023 updated. Consider your budget, and if you are looking for more affordable options, the same floor plans may have been manufactured in previous years, so that this information could be valuable for orientation.

Also, for couples looking to establish their business and working from home on wheels, we highlight some travel trailer floor plans that offer a great space and working area. This video is just a sneak peek of some top picks featured in this buyer’s review.

Table of Contents

What to Look for In a Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple  

Couples should prioritize certain elements that will make their full-time living travel trailer more comfortable. However, we will provide our personal opinion during this travel trailer review based on our experience as RVers; the preferences of each individual or couple, in particular, take precedence. Therefore, you and your partner should list all the preferences and must-haves, prioritize them, and then search for floor plans according to the budget .

For instance, when we did this prioritization exercise in Camper Outdoor , my wife and Amy (our assistant editor), put first must-have a travel trailer with laundry or at least a travel trailer with washer and dryer connections for full-time living.

I enjoy cooking and preparing delicious gourmet dishes (and I’m actually quite good!). I enjoy chopping garlic and onions, combining spices, and growing aromatic herbs in my RV. So, when it comes to food preparation, I prioritize the space I have in the kitchen . I also seek the finest ventilation possible in the kitchen. I really don’t like the smell of food in my bedroom. Summer ventilation is simple, especially if you have an outdoor kitchen.

Living in a travel trailer full-time entails needing to ventilate during the winter and not always being able to use the outside kitchen. This is why the kitchen’s location in a full-time travel trailer is critical. In my case, I prefer a rear kitchen travel trailer with the master bedroom at the front of the camper.

Likewise, if you are going to live full-time, comfort, according to the activities you like to do, is key. Pantry space is also important. The size of the appliances is quite essential in everyday living. It may only be a couple, but a minibar refrigerator will not provide the same level of comfort as a residential refrigerator.

Of course, it all adds up to the budget you are thinking about. However, if at all feasible, couples considering permanently relocating to a travel trailer to live full-time should examine the aforementioned concerns.

Tips When Choosing the Best Couples Travel Trailer

• Nothing is more practical than having a travel trailer with a laundry room.
• The larger the kitchen, the easier it will be to prepare gourmet meals.
• It is advisable to opt for residential-sized appliances .
• While the outside kitchen is desirable, kitchens located opposite the bedroom (e.g., rear kitchen and front master bedroom) allow for better ventilation to avoid odors in the bedroom.
• Full-time living may require opting for 4-season travel trailers. It all depends on the lifestyle of the couple. Snowbirds? Permanent Florida residents? Or will they winterize the travel trailer during the winter?

Lastly, for couples planning to work from campers and remotely, we suggest they have several surfaces to support notebooks/laptops, monitors, etc. Throughout the post, we have suggested full-time travel trailers for a couple working from the RV with options that fit this. On the other hand, senior couples will also find that these trailers also fit their activities.

Of course, we only consider during the review the best quality travel trailers and built and the RV brands providing only excellent customer care. At the end of the day, any camper owner can have an issue even with a new RV, so how manufacturers deal with these issues is critical to choosing one brand or another.

In this article, we review the following floor plans on the current market for couples and senior couples looking for a travel trailer for long-term living.  

• Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for A Couple Under 25 Feet: Keystone RV Passport SL 189RB and the new 2023 Passport SL 18RB travel trailer
• Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for A Couple Under 30 Feet: 2023 Jay Feather 24RL by Jayco

Best Couples Travel Trailer with King Bed for Full-Time Living: North Trail Ultra-Lite 22RKSS by Heartland RVs

• Best Full-Time Luxury Travel Trailer for Couples: Reflection 315RLTS by Grand Design RV

Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple Under 25 Feet for 2023

Keystone RV has a couple of floorplans worth seeing for couples looking for something brand new at a starting MSRP of $40,000 . Two-floor plans, in particular, captured our attention.

Passport SL 189RB and Passport 18RB are in our list of the Best Full-Time Travel Trailers for a Couple looking for lightweight travel trailers under 25 feet (precisely 21 feet long), less than 5000 lbs (UVW).

This time, we propose the best couples travel trailer under 25 feet, lightweight (Dry Weight 4,825 lbs.), and with a queen size-Murphy bed if you choose the floor plan 189RB or a traditional fixed queen-size bed if you choose the brand new 2023 floor plan 18RB.

As you can see in the floor plan below, this Passport SL 189RB couples travel trailer has an outside kitchen, a 10 ft awning, and two pass-thru storage compartments outside.

You will find a fully kitchen-equipped area at the left of the entry door. Across from there is a single slide-out booth dinette, which can accommodate two more guests to sleep if needed. A theater dinette is optional and may be the best choice for a full-time couple living in this travel trailer (see the photo below). On the other hand, if you are looking for floor plans for a full-time living travel trailer for a couple working remotely , the booth dinette offers a great working space area for two people with computers.

The full dry bath is located rear, opposite the front Murphy bed and sofa. The bathroom is enormous and has everything you need to live in this travel trailer. This dry bath includes a medicine cabinet with a mirror, a hand basin with plugs and enough space, a foot flushable toilet, skylights and vent, and a walking shower.

Between wardrobes and cabinets, this couple’s travel trailer, only 21 feet long and under 5000 pounds, offers plenty of space for full-time living. Versatile and according to the price, it is one of our recommendations.

Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple: Passport SL 189RB Couples Travel Trailer Under 25 Feet

• Make: Keystone RV
• Model:  Passport SL 189RB
• Trim: 189RB
• Region: East
• RV Type/Class: Travel Trailer
• Sub Class: Small Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple Under 25 Feet
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 6,430 lbs
• Dry Weight (UVW): 4,825 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 615 lbs
• Max Cargo Capacity: 1,605 lbs
• Length: 23 ft 1 in
• Height: 10 ft 8 in
• Tire-Size: ST205/75R14D
• Fresh Water: 37 gal
• Gray Water: 30 gal
• Waste Water: 30 gal
• Number of Propane Tanks: 2
• LPG: 40 lbs.
• Heat Pump: No
• AC Units: 1
• 50 AMP Service w/ 2nd A/C Prep: No
• Sleeping Capacity: 4
• Living Location: Center
• Kitchen Location: Center
• Bedroom Location: Front (Murphy Bed Queen Size Bed)
• Private Master Bedroom: No (No Sliding Doors)
• Queen Bed: Yes (Murphy Bed Queen Size)
• Bunkhouse: No
• Bathroom: 1 (Full Dry Bath)
• Large Shower: Yes
• Kitchen Pantry: Yes
• 12V Refrigerator: Yes
• Gas/Electric Refrigerator: Yes
• Refrigerator Size: 8 cu ft
• Washer & Dryer Prep: No
• Fireplace: No
• Outdoor Kitchen: Yes
• Extended Season Camping: Yes
• Awnings: Yes
• Front Windshield: No
• Towing Hitch: No
• Accessory Receiver: No
• TV Hookups: 1
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi Prep: Yes
• Back-up Camera/Camera Prep: Yes
• Side Camera Prep: No
• Automatic Leveling: No
• Electric Stabilizer Jacks: Yes
• Smart RV Control System: No
• Optional Generator: No
• Generator Prep: No
• Solar Power Prep: Yes
• Solar Power System: Yes
• MSRP: $40,461

Best Couples Travel Trailer Under 30 Feet

Let’s check out options for the Best Couples Travel Trailer Under 30 Feet .

Jayco Jay Feather 24RL is the Best Couples’s Travel Trailer Under 30 Feet and the Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple with a budget starting at $43,980. Being a lightweight travel trailer of 29 feet but colossal inside, with tons of comfort, is a great deal.

Don’t feel overwhelmed with a sleeping capacity of 6 people. May you work from home? I can assure you this is the best full-time travel trailer for a couple working remotely and establishing their business place in an RV . Believe me. Between the slide-out booth dinette and the optional theater seats, you will find more than enough room to set your workstation area without having to move laptops around for dinner. 

Also, the Jay Feather 24RL travel trailer offers privacy to the couple if having guests as the master queen size bedroom in the front has sliding doors, separating the living room and bathroom.

Let’s see the Jay Feather 24RL Travel Trailer floor plan below.

Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple: Jay Feather 24RL Couples Travel Trailer Under 30 Feet

• Make: Jayco
• Model: 2023 Jay Feather
• Sub Class: Full-Time Travel Trailer for A Couple Under 30 Feet
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 6,600 lbs.
• Dry Weight (UVW): 5,325 lbs.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity: 1,275 lbs.
• Dry Hitch Weight: 660 lbs.
• Exterior Length (overall): 28′ 7″
• Exterior Height: 10′ 1″
• Exterior Height (with A/C): 10′ 9″
• Exterior Width: 8′ 0″
• Exterior Width: 11′ 0″ (with slides out)
• Interior Height (main): 6′ 6″
• Awning Length: 20′ 0″
• Fresh Water Capacity: 55.0 gal
• Gray Water Capacity: 30.5 gal
• Black Tank Capacity: 30.5 gal
• Propane Unit: 40 lbs.
• Propane Unit additional: 60 lbs.
• Sleeps: up to 6
• Water Heater: Tankless
• # of outside storage compartments: 3
• Furnace BTU: 35000
• Tire Size: ST205/75R14’D’
• MSRP: $43,980* *(MSRP shown in USD. MSRP excludes freight and dealer preparation fees)

Click to see the 360-Tour Best Couples Travel Trailer Under 30 Feet

Best Travel Trailer with King Bed for Couples for Full-Time Living

Here is our selection for couples looking for comfort, quality, space, and a king-size bed. The North Trail Ultra-Lite 22RKSS Travel Trailer by Heartland RVs is one of the best full-time travel trailers for a couple, including a king bed.

As you can see in the floor plan of this new 2023 North Trail 22RKSS travel trailer , at the right of the entry door, you will find the front master King bedroom. The bedroom includes a king-size gel-infused mattress (72″x80″) , LED reading light on both sides of the bed, 110 v outlets on both nightstands, ceiling lights, a dresser, huge under-bed storage, and a wardrobe. It is also possible to access the ensuite bath from the living room.

The bathroom is a fully equipped comfortable dry bath , with a toilet, medicine cabinet, vent fan, shower with skylight and tub surround, and a complementary outside shower.

The kitchen offers a good area according to the space a couple needs with hardwood cabinets. The appliances are stainless steel, and the refrigerator is 10.7 cubic ft. Excellent upgrade for the conventional oven with an exclusive air fryer oven.

The weather defense package is advisable for couples who want to live full-time in all seasons, as the block foam insulation, the 4″ thick vacuum-bonded roof, and the heated and enclosed underbelly are recommended features.

A 50″ HDTV and a 26″ fireplace are good optional features couples may consider to add for a full-time travel trailer.

• Make:   Heartland RVs
• Model:  North Trail Ultra-Lite 22RKSS ( New 2023 Travel Trailer Floor Plan )
• Trim: 22RKSS
• RV Type/Class:  Travel trailer
• Sub Class: Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple with King Bed and Rear Kitchen
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 7,620 lbs.
• Dry Weight (UVW): 6,180 lbs.
• Hitch Weight: 620 lbs.
• Cargo Capacity: 1,408 lbs.
• Width: 8′-0″
• Height: 11′-4″
• Length: 26′-1/2″
• Sq Ft: 207′
• Max Sleeping Capacity: 3-4
• Axles: 2 X 3,500 lbs.
• Fresh Tank: 45 Gal
• Grey Tank: 80 Gal
• Black Tank: 40 Gal
• Water Heater: 6 Gal
• Furnace: 30,000 Btu
• Air Conditioner: 13,500 BTU
• LP Tank Capacity: 2 tanks X 20 lbs. of capacity
• Refrigerator: 6 Cu Ft/110/LP
• Converter: 55 Amp
• Shore Power: 30 Amp
• Number Of Slides: 2
• Main Slide Height: 5′-7-1/4″
• Bedroom Height: 6′-8″
• Awning Length: 17′
• Cook Top: 3 Burner
• Traditional Oven: Yes
• Convection Oven: No
• Bed Size: King Size Bed  (72″x80″) Gel-infused mattress
• MSRP:   TBD

Although this King Bed Couples travel trailer is an excellent option for full-time living , you should consider the absence of washer and dryer connections and maybe a limited space to add them. Therefore, our next section, “ Best Full-Time Luxury Travel Trailer for Couples ” covers a full-time travel trailer with laundry and the previous features highlighted in the North Trailer camper.  

Best Full-Time Travel Trailers for a Couple Including a King Bed – Bonus

Best Full-Time Travel Trailers for a Couple Including a King Bed – Bonus Information, the 2023 White Hawk Travel Trailer floor plans by Jayco are worth seeing for couples and senior couples looking for luxury, lightweight, and king-size mattresses for full-time camper living.

For instance, the 2023 White Hawk 27RB Travel Trailer is an excellent option for couples . Starting at MSRP $62,459, you will find great deals.

Click to see the 360-Tour

Best Full-Time Luxury Travel Trailer for Couples

When we talk about good quality travel trailers and good built of sure Grand Design RV comes to mind. Synonymous with luxury, Grand Design RV only offers luxury travel trailers and fifth wheels. Therefore, the proposal we are reviewing today is certainly full-time luxury travel trailers for couples . Moreover, this is one of the most popularly selected as the best travel trailers for senior couples.

We started this article by mentioning that we are going to give particular importance to some features that we want to make our full-time living travel trailer more comfortable, such as the kitchen location, ventilation while cooking, space for cooking, washer and dryer prep, pantry space, over the head cabinets and exterior storage, residential-sized appliances, king-size bed, easy winterization or four-season features, etc.

Of course, it all adds up to the budget you are thinking about. But, if possible, couples thinking of moving permanently into a travel trailer to live full-time should consider these mentioned points, and Reflection 315RLTS travel trailer by Grand Design RV covers all these desirable features as the best luxury full-time travel trailer for a couple.

As you can see on the floorplan below, the luxury Reflection 315RLTS full-time Travel Trailer for couples and senior couples is fully equipped with everything you may need and want for your long-term RV living . Two awnings outside (13′ & 10′ 6″)and cooking connections to enjoy the outdoors. One huge pass-thru external storage, an outside shower, and solid aluminum steps at the entry door.

At the right of the entry door, you will find the front queen or king master bedroom with a dresser, over-the-head cabinets, a wall-to-wall functional wardrobe closet, and drawers. Inside the wardrobe is a large area prepared for a washer and dryer combo. Although the standard is a 60” x 80” queen-size mattress with a residential bedspread, it is possible to change to a king-size mattress, including oversized bed base storage, which is great for couples living full-time in the travel trailer .

A fully equipped dry bathroom is next to the bedroom, in the middle of the camper trailer. You will find a large medicine cabinet with a mirror, a large vanity top with a deep hand basin, a linen cabinet, a foot-flushable toilet, a spacious walk-in shower with a skylight, a vent fan, and a sliding glass door.

The living room and kitchen area are the most spectacular part of this full-time living travel trailer. The rear kitchen (opposite the front private master bedroom) is easy to ventilate, fully equipped, and includes a full-size pantry and a kitchen island, giving you all the space you need to prepare gourmet meals. No small appliances in this kitchen. Only residential size and upgraded appliances. Perfect for a full-time living camper trailer.

With enough seating space, couples may choose where they feel more comfortable to set computers and notebooks and create an office or a workspace area without needing to move everything for dinner.

Also, couples wanting occasional guests can accommodate up to 2 more people in the convertible tri-fold sofa.

As mentioned, the Grand Design Reflection series is a full-time 4-season travel trailer. It includes heated and enclosed dump valves and underbelly with recirculating heat, thermo-foil insulation under holding tanks, the EZ winterization valve, and insulated walls and slide-out floors. Precisely what a couple needs to live full-time in a camper trailer. Additionally, the furnace and the fireplace are good features.

Check out this fantastic 360-tour

Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple: Luxury Grand Design RV Reflection 315RLTS Travel Trailer

• Make:   Grand Design RV
• Model:  Reflection 315RLTS
• Trim:      315RLTS
• Sub Class: Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple with King Bed, Laundry, Rear Kitchen
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 11,295 lbs.
• Dry Weight (UVW):         9,443 lbs.
• Hitch Weight:     1,099 lbs.
• Length: 37′ 11″
• Max Sleeping Capacity: 4
• Number of Bedrooms:    2
• Number of Bunk Beds:    0
• Private Bunk Room:         No
• Washer/Dryer Available
• Rear Kitchen with Pantry and Kitchen Island
• Number of Queen Size Beds:        1 (60″ x 80″) (King Opt.)
• Number of King Size Beds:            King Size Bed Optional
• Private Bedrooms: 1
• Number of Convertible Beds:       1
• Number of Slides-Out:    3
• Awning Length: 13′ & 10′ 6″
• Number of Bathrooms:  1
• Bathroom Type: Full Dry Bathroom
• Shower Door Type:          Hard Sliding Doors
• Outdoor Kitchen:              No (Prep)
• Fresh Water Capacity:    54 gal
• Grey Water Capacity:     118 gal
• Waste Water Capacity:  43 gal
• LP Capacity:       60 lbs.
• Furnace:              35000 BTU
• Fireplace:             5000 BTU
• MSRP:   $77,464

Final Thoughts Regarding Travel Trailers for Full-Time and Long-Term Living for Couples & Senior Couples

While budget can be a constraint, it is vital to spend a lot of time looking for a floor plan that will make the couple feel more comfortable with the advantages and disadvantages that the chosen travel trailer will bring to their daily lives.

Especially couples who have not had the experience of living full-time in a camper may find this new stage of their lives quite challenging.

That is why we emphasize that it is essential that both members of the couple prioritize what the camper should have, which issues are preferable, and which ones are a must.

We hope that our selected options in this short review with our Best Full-Time Travel Trailer for a Couple will help you to approach the subject and continue exploring different floor plans until you find what you have in mind, your perfect couples’ travel trailer.

About John Smith

For more than 30 years I worked in the exciting world of RV manufacturing. I liked knowing that I could improve the campers with customer feedback and see the improvements and upgrades on floor plans, delivering the best designs and the best quality RVs, year after year. After traveling with my family in RVs and small rented campers across the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and even North Africa, I feel that I must share personal experiences, guidance, concerns, tips, and news. At Camper Outdoor, we share our biggest passion, weekend getaways in a camper, RV vacations, extended stays in RV parks, the quiet life of senior couples who choose to spend more time enjoying their RV, and boondocking experiences (which as in the beginning was unsuccessful, we have good tips to avoid the same thing happening to you!). Enjoy this website created just for you!

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Can You Live in a Travel Trailer? Tips, Legal Insights, and Full-Time RV Living Guide

Yes, you can live in a travel trailer full-time, but it depends on local regulations. Some counties and states allow it, especially if you buy land or stay in a mobile home park. In other areas, you may need to move the trailer periodically. Always check specific local laws and practical considerations before making a decision.

Firstly, ensure your travel trailer is adequately equipped. Essential features include a reliable power source, plumbing, heating, and sufficient storage. Investing in solar panels or generators can provide extra convenience, especially when traveling to remote areas.

Legal considerations also play a significant role. Check local zoning laws and regulations regarding full-time RV living. Some areas may restrict long-term parking of travel trailers or require permits. It’s crucial to be informed about parking restrictions and overnight stay rules in various states and municipalities.

Adopting a minimalist lifestyle is often necessary. Limit personal belongings to the essentials to maximize space and avoid clutter. Additionally, create a budget to manage expenses effectively, including fuel, maintenance, and campground fees.

Joining RV communities can provide valuable support and information. These communities offer resources on the best travel routes, safety tips, and recommendations for campgrounds.

Next, we delve deeper into the financial planning and budgeting aspects crucial for sustaining a full-time RV lifestyle.

Can You Live Comfortably in a Travel Trailer?

Yes, you can live comfortably in a travel trailer. Many people choose this lifestyle and find it suitable for their needs.

Living comfortably in a travel trailer depends on several factors. Space is often limited, so choosing a trailer that fits your lifestyle is essential. Essential amenities, like kitchen appliances, bathroom facilities, and sleeping arrangements, can enhance comfort. Additionally, insulation and climate control help maintain a pleasant living environment in different weather conditions. Good organization and effective storage solutions can further maximize comfort. A supportive community and access to facilities like parks or RV resorts also contribute to an enjoyable living experience in a travel trailer.

What Amenities Are Essential for Comfortable Living in a Travel Trailer?

The essential amenities for comfortable living in a travel trailer include basic utilities and comfort features that cater to daily needs.

• Sleeping Area
• Kitchen Facilities
• Bathroom Facilities
• Heating and Cooling Systems
• Power Supply
• Water Supply and Storage
• Storage Solutions
• Outdoor Space
• Connectivity Options

These amenities contribute to an overall comfortable living experience in a travel trailer, though individual preferences can vary significantly.

Sleeping Area : A designated sleeping area is crucial for rest. This space must be separate or convertible from the living area to maintain privacy. Many trailers offer queen or full-sized beds for comfort. In a survey by the RV Industry Association (2021), 85% of RV owners rated a comfortable sleeping environment as a top priority.

Kitchen Facilities : Kitchen amenities typically include a refrigerator, stove, sink, and counter space. These features allow for meal preparation, which is vital for self-sufficiency while traveling. A 2019 study by the RVIA indicated that an equipped kitchen is among the top three features influencing purchasing decisions for travel trailers.

Bathroom Facilities : Access to a bathroom is essential for hygiene and comfort. Most trailers include a toilet, shower, and sink. According to a 2022 report by the North American RV Council, 72% of RV users prefer having a fully functional bathroom over access to external facilities.

Heating and Cooling Systems : Climate control options ensure comfort regardless of weather conditions. Whether through air conditioning units or heating systems, these features help maintain a pleasant indoor temperature. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers emphasizes that proper systems enhance both comfort and health.

Power Supply : Reliable electricity through battery systems or solar panels is vital for running appliances and devices. Many modern trailers now include solar options to support off-grid living. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (2022), the use of solar energy in RVs has grown by over 30% in recent years.

Water Supply and Storage : An adequate supply of clean water is necessary for drinking, cooking, and washing. A water storage tank and an efficient plumbing system help maintain hygiene. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight the importance of proper water storage to prevent contamination.

Storage Solutions : Effective storage options such as cabinets, compartments, and external storage are essential for organizing belongings and minimizing clutter. Consumer Reports (2020) notes that trailers with innovative storage solutions receive higher satisfaction ratings.

Outdoor Space : An outdoor area for relaxation or recreation enhances the living experience. Some trailers feature awnings or attachable decks. A survey from RV Travelers magazine (2021) found that 67% of RV enthusiasts enjoy using outdoor spaces for socializing or leisure activities.

Connectivity Options : Internet and mobile connectivity are increasingly important for many travelers. Features such as Wi-Fi boosters or satellite connections allow for remote work or entertainment. The Pew Research Center (2021) stated that nearly 60% of remote workers rely on stable internet access while traveling.

In conclusion, understanding and prioritizing these amenities can enhance the experience of living in a travel trailer. Each feature contributes significantly to comfort and function, allowing for enjoyable and convenient travel.

What Legal Requirements Must You Consider for Living in a Travel Trailer?

Living in a travel trailer involves several legal requirements that vary by location. These requirements may include zoning laws, registration and licensing, inspection standards, insurance, and waste disposal regulations.

• Zoning Laws
• Registration and Licensing
• Inspection Standards
• Insurance Requirements
• Waste Management Regulations

Understanding these legal requirements is crucial for ensuring compliance and a smooth living experience in a travel trailer. Let’s explore each of these legal aspects in detail.

Zoning Laws : Zoning laws dictate where travel trailers can be parked and lived in. These regulations are specific to municipalities and may vary significantly. Some areas permit travel trailers as primary residences, while others do not allow full-time living in them. It is important for individuals to check with their local city or county planning department to understand the specific zoning regulations that apply.

Registration and Licensing : Many states require travel trailers to be registered and have a license plate. This includes paying applicable taxes and fees. Registration ensures that the vehicle is recognized by the state and adheres to the necessary regulations. Failure to register may result in fines or legal complications.

Inspection Standards : In some jurisdictions, travel trailers must pass inspections to ensure they meet safety and living standards. These inspections typically cover electrical systems, plumbing, and emergency safety features. It is essential to confirm any inspection requirements to avoid potential legal issues.

Insurance Requirements : Most states mandate that travel trailers have some form of insurance. This protects individuals from damages or liabilities that may arise while living in or traveling with a trailer. Insurance options can vary, including liability, comprehensive, or collision coverage. Potential owners should review their insurance needs and ensure they meet local regulations.

Waste Management Regulations : Living in a travel trailer often involves specific waste management protocols. Many locations require the proper disposal of sewage and gray water to avoid environmental hazards. Individuals should familiarize themselves with local waste disposal regulations to ensure compliance and public safety.

By carefully considering these legal requirements, individuals can navigate the process of living in a travel trailer more effectively. Understanding local laws and securing necessary permits will help ensure a positive living experience.

Are There Specific Zoning Laws for Full-Time RV Living in Different States?

Yes, there are specific zoning laws for full-time RV living in different states. Each state has its own regulations that govern whether you can live in an RV year-round, with some regions permitting the practice while others may impose restrictions or outright bans.

States vary significantly in their approach to zoning laws for RV living. For instance, states like Florida and Texas are more RV-friendly. They often have designated RV parks, allowing long-term stays. In contrast, states like California and New York may have stricter zoning regulations. These states may limit RV living to recognized campgrounds and places with proper permits. It’s essential for RV owners to research local laws and regulations before choosing a location for full-time living.

The positive aspect of allowing full-time RV living is increased flexibility and mobility. Many individuals enjoy the simplicity and adventure of living in an RV. According to a report by the RV Industry Association, around 1 million families lived in RVs full-time in 2021, experiencing lower costs and a minimalist lifestyle. Additionally, RVs can offer access to nature and scenic locations, contributing to overall well-being and enjoyment.

On the downside, certain challenges exist with full-time RV living. Zoning issues can lead to fines or the need to relocate if regulations are violated. According to a 2020 study by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, nearly 41% of RV owners cited restrictions as a major concern. Additionally, living in an RV may present difficulties in accessing utilities, like water and sewage disposal, particularly in areas with fewer amenities.

For those considering full-time RV living, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research on local zoning laws. Check with local government offices or planning departments. Joining RV lifestyle forums can also provide insights and shared experiences from others in similar situations. Tailor your approach based on your lifestyle needs, local regulations, and available RV parks or camping options to make informed decisions about where to settle.

How Do You Choose the Best Place to Park Your Travel Trailer?

Selecting the best place to park your travel trailer involves considering location, amenities, safety, and regulations. Each factor significantly impacts your overall experience.

Location: Choose an area that offers easy access to essential services and attractions. Being near grocery stores, gas stations, and recreational activities enhances convenience. Look for parking spots with beautiful scenery, such as parks or lakes, for a more enjoyable stay.

Amenities: Evaluate the amenities provided at the parking location. Some preferred amenities include electricity, water hookups, and waste disposal services. According to the RV Industry Association (2020), nearly 75% of RV owners prioritize access to these utilities, as they enhance comfort during the stay.

Safety: Prioritize safety in your decision-making process. Park in well-lit areas with visible security measures like cameras or patrols. Check online reviews or RV community forums to gauge past visitors’ safety experiences. A study by the National Park Service (2018) indicated that RV travelers have reported feeling most secure in spots with high visibility and friendly neighbors.

Regulations: Investigate local regulations regarding parking your trailer. Some areas impose restrictions on parking trailers overnight. Familiarize yourself with zoning laws and any required permits to avoid fines or towing. Information can often be found on local government websites or by contacting agencies directly.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find a suitable parking location that provides ease, comfort, and security for your travel trailer experience.

What Are the Most Recommended Campgrounds for Long-Term Stays?

The most recommended campgrounds for long-term stays vary by location, amenities, and types of experiences offered. Popular campgrounds include state parks, RV resorts, national parks, and private campgrounds.

• State Parks
• National Parks
• Private Campgrounds

These campgrounds provide a range of amenities and activities that appeal to different preferences. Each option has unique features that cater to various camping styles, such as proximity to natural attractions, recreational facilities, or social environments.

State Parks : State parks prioritize outdoor experiences and natural beauty. They often provide campsites that are spacious and surrounded by nature. Amenities may include hiking trails, fishing areas, and wildlife observation opportunities. For example, Yellowstone State Park in Wyoming offers extensive trails and geothermal features. Many state parks also have lower fees for long-term stays compared to other options, making them appealing for extended visits.

RV Resorts : RV resorts cater specifically to travelers with recreational vehicles. They typically feature full hookups, Wi-Fi, and amenities like pools, laundry rooms, and organized activities. Some resorts even provide concierge services. An example is the Lake Livingston State Park in Texas, where long-term stay options are available in a secure and relaxing environment. RV resorts are ideal for those wanting a balance of nature and comfort.

National Parks : National parks offer breathtaking scenery and unique geological features. Camping here allows extended stays amidst stunning landscapes. Campgrounds such as those in Yosemite National Park feature limited amenities but provide unparalleled access to nature. Long-term campers may face reservation restrictions due to popularity, so planning is essential.

Private Campgrounds : Private campgrounds often cater to a broader audience with a range of facilities. They may include cabins, glamping options, and recreational activities. For instance, the KOA (Kampgrounds of America) locations provide diverse amenities, including pools, game rooms, and community events. These campgrounds tend to be more family-friendly and often allow for longer stays with varying prices.

In conclusion, the choice of campground for long-term stays depends on individual preferences for amenities, environments, and budgets. Each type offers specific benefits that cater to different camping experiences.

How Can You Effectively Manage Bills and Expenses While Living in a Travel Trailer?

To effectively manage bills and expenses while living in a travel trailer, it is essential to adopt a strategic approach that includes budgeting, tracking expenses, and reducing costs.

Start by creating a detailed budget that outlines expected income and expenses. Include essential costs such as campsite fees, utilities, groceries, and insurance. A study by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (2021) indicates that on average, individuals spend about $1,000 monthly on living expenses in a travel trailer.

Next, track all expenses to gain insight into spending patterns. Use mobile apps or spreadsheets to record daily purchases and categorize them. For example, separate categories can include food, fuel, and entertainment. Tracking aids in identifying areas for potential savings and helps ensure that you stay within budget.

Reduce costs wherever possible. Consider the following strategies: – Shop for groceries at local discount stores to lower food expenses. – Use public parks or free campsites instead of paid sites to save on lodging costs. – Limit dining out to special occasions to avoid unnecessary expenses. – Perform regular maintenance on your travel trailer to prevent costly repairs over time.

Adopting a minimalist lifestyle can also contribute to lower expenses. By reducing the number of personal items you own, you can cut back on storage needs and simplify your living conditions. This approach encourages smart purchasing decisions, helping you only to buy what is necessary.

Finally, look for additional income sources while traveling. Options include remote work, seasonal jobs, or offering services in your travel community. A survey by the RV Industry Association (2022) found that nearly 30% of full-time RV dwellers supplement their income while on the road.

Successfully managing bills and expenses in a travel trailer requires careful planning, consistent tracking, and proactive cost-reduction strategies. Embracing these methods can enhance your financial stability while enjoying the nomadic lifestyle.

What Budgeting Tips Should Full-Time RVers Follow to Save Money?

The budgeting tips full-time RVers should follow to save money include careful planning, monitoring expenses, and utilizing available resources effectively.

• Create a detailed budget
• Track monthly expenses
• Use apps for budget management
• Plan travel routes wisely
• Choose affordable campgrounds
• Utilize discounts and memberships
• Cook meals instead of dining out
• Limit recreational spending
• Use free resources and activities
• Be mindful of fuel costs

By exploring these suggestions more deeply, RVers can find effective strategies to stretch their budget while enjoying their lifestyle.

Create a Detailed Budget : Creating a detailed budget is essential for full-time RVers to manage their finances effectively. A budget outlines expected income and expenses, aligning spending with financial goals. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a well-planned budget can help avoid overspending and ensure essential bills are paid. RVers should include costs such as fuel, maintenance, campground fees, groceries, and entertainment in their budget.

Track Monthly Expenses : Tracking monthly expenses enables RVers to notice spending patterns and identify areas for savings. Tools like spreadsheets or personal finance apps can simplify this process. A study by the American Psychological Association shows that regular tracking of expenses can lead to better financial habits and improved personal finance health.

Use Apps for Budget Management : Utilizing budget management apps can streamline the budgeting process. Apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) offer tools to categorize expenses and set financial goals. These applications provide real-time updates, making it easier for RVers to stay on top of their spending and adjust as needed.

Plan Travel Routes Wisely : Planning travel routes wisely can significantly reduce fuel costs. RVers should research gas prices along their route and use mapping tools to take efficient paths. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that driving habits and route efficiency can affect gas consumption, and careful planning can lead to substantial savings.

Choose Affordable Campgrounds : Choosing affordable campgrounds is crucial for keeping living expenses low. RVers can look for state parks, federal campgrounds, or membership programs like Passport America, which offer discounted rates. According to a survey by Campendium, many RVers successfully save hundreds of dollars annually by selecting budget-friendly camping options.

Utilize Discounts and Memberships : RVers should take advantage of discounts and memberships available for camping and travel. Organizations like Good Sam and AAA provide members with savings on campgrounds, fuel, and RV-related services. Memberships often pay for themselves through the discounts they offer, as indicated by various RV lifestyle blogs.

Cook Meals Instead of Dining Out : Cooking meals instead of dining out can lead to significant savings. Preparing food at home helps manage costs and provides healthier meal options. The USDA states that eating out can cost 1.5 to 2.5 times more than cooking at home, highlighting the financial benefits of home-cooked meals.

Limit Recreational Spending : Limiting recreational spending can ensure RVers stick to their budget. Many enjoyable activities, such as hiking or visiting national parks, are free or low-cost. A report by the National Park Service indicates that outdoor activities can offer memorable experiences without high costs.

Use Free Resources and Activities : Actively seeking free resources and activities can enhance the RV experience while saving money. Local tourism boards often provide information on free attractions and events. A case study by the Outdoor Industry Association reveals that embracing local culture and nature not only saves money but also enriches the travel experience.

Be Mindful of Fuel Costs : Being mindful of fuel costs is critical for full-time RVers. Regular maintenance ensures that engines run efficiently, and RVers should combine errands to minimize driving. According to the American Automobile Association, ensuring tire pressure is optimal can improve fuel efficiency, saving RVers money in the long run.

What Are the Main Pros and Cons of Living in a Travel Trailer?

Living in a travel trailer offers flexibility and a unique lifestyle, but it also presents challenges.

The main pros and cons of living in a travel trailer include:

Pros: 1. Flexibility in travel locations 2. Cost savings on housing 3. Minimalist lifestyle promotes decluttering 4. Strong sense of community among RVers 5. Connection with nature

Cons: 1. Limited living space 2. Maintenance requirements 3. Zoning and legal restrictions 4. Potential for isolation 5. Limited access to amenities

The advantages and disadvantages of living in a travel trailer can impact individual choices and experiences.

Flexibility in Travel Locations: Living in a travel trailer allows individuals to move easily from one location to another. This freedom supports spontaneous adventures and exploration of different environments.

Cost Savings on Housing: Travel trailers can be a more affordable housing option compared to traditional homes. The lower cost of living can help individuals save money or allocate funds to travel experiences.

Minimalist Lifestyle Promotes Decluttering: Traveling in a limited space encourages residents to downsize and embrace minimalism. This lifestyle shift can lead to reduced stress and improved mental clarity.

Strong Sense of Community Among RVers: Many travel trailer residents find a welcoming community among fellow RVers. This networking can lead to friendships, social gatherings, and shared experiences during travels.

Connection with Nature: Travel trailers often allow people to stay close to nature. Living near parks, lakes, and mountains enhances outdoor experiences and promotes a healthier lifestyle.

Limited Living Space: Travel trailers typically offer less space than conventional homes. This limitation can lead to discomfort, especially for families or individuals who prefer more room.

Maintenance Requirements: Owning a travel trailer involves ongoing maintenance, including repairs and inspections. This commitment can be time-consuming and costly over time.

Zoning and Legal Restrictions: Travel trailer living faces various legal restrictions depending on location. Zoning laws may limit where trailers can be parked or require permits for long-term stays.

Potential for Isolation: While many find community among RVers, some may experience feelings of loneliness, especially in remote areas. The transient nature of travel can make it hard to build lasting relationships.

Limited Access to Amenities: Travel trailers may lack access to standard amenities found in traditional homes, such as reliable internet, larger kitchens, or modern bathrooms. This limitation can affect convenience and comfort.

Living in a travel trailer encompasses a range of experiences, benefits, and challenges unique to individual preferences and lifestyles.

How Do the Advantages of Full-Time RV Living Compare to the Disadvantages?

Full-time RV living offers significant advantages, such as freedom and mobility, but it also presents disadvantages, including potential isolation and maintenance challenges.

The advantages of full-time RV living include:

Freedom of Location: RV living allows individuals to travel anywhere, adapting to personal preferences and seasonal changes. This flexibility enables exploration of various landscapes and cultures.

Cost Savings: For some, full-time RV living can reduce housing costs. A study by the RV Industry Association (2021) found that many RVers save on rent and utilities, although costs can vary widely.

Simplified Lifestyle: Living in an RV encourages minimalism. Residents often focus on essential possessions, leading to reduced clutter and stress.

Community and Social Interaction: RV parks and campgrounds often create a sense of community. Many RVers form friendships and share experiences, fostering social connections.

The disadvantages of full-time RV living include:

Isolation: Many RVers report feelings of loneliness, especially when traveling alone or in remote areas. This can impact emotional well-being and social life.

Maintenance Responsibilities: RVs require regular upkeep, including plumbing, electrical systems, and mechanical components. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs.

Limited Space: RV living offers limited storage. Families or individuals must downsize significantly, which can be challenging for those accustomed to larger homes.

Connectivity Issues: Finding reliable internet and mobile service can be difficult in rural or remote locations. This can hinder work, communication, and entertainment options.

Considering these factors allows individuals to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks of full-time RV living and make informed decisions that suit their personal needs and lifestyle preferences.

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