Set New Goals for the Open Road
As the new year approaches, many people are considering resolutions and goals for 2024. If you’re an RVer, you might be wondering what goals would be most meaningful and achievable for you. Here are 24 potential New Year’s resolutions for RVers to consider as you start planning for the year ahead.
#1 Learn how to perform maintenance tasks on your RV.
It’s essential to keep your RV in good working order, and that means being able to take care of basic maintenance tasks yourself. Whether changing the oil, replacing a flat tire, or winterizing your rig, resolve to learn the skills you need to keep your RV running smoothly.
#2 Plan at least one cross-country trip in the coming year.
Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a newbie, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of hitting the open road and exploring new destinations. Start researching routes and must-see attractions with RV LIFE Trip Wizard for your epic adventure now.
#3 Spend more time exploring local and state parks.
Many RVers are drawn to the freedom and flexibility of the open road, but it’s also important to take the time to explore the natural beauty and history right in your own backyard. Make a resolution to spend more time exploring local and state parks in the coming year and discover all your region has to offer.
#4 Set a goal to reduce your carbon footprint while RVing.
Climate change is a significant concern for many people, and RVers can play a role in reducing their carbon footprint on the road. Whether using solar panels, conserving water, or choosing eco-friendly campsites, make it one of your new year’s resolutions to be more mindful of your impact on the environment while RVing in 2024.
#5 Try out boondocking at least once.
Boondocking, or camping without access to electrical, water, or sewage hookups, can be a challenging but rewarding way to experience the great outdoors. Try out boondocking at least once in the coming year, and see if you can rough it without the comforts of home.
#6 Learn a new outdoor skill.
RVing is the perfect opportunity to try out new outdoor activities and hobbies, and there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Learn a new outdoor skill in 2024, whether it’s rock climbing, fishing, hiking, or something else entirely.
#7 Seek out new destinations and experiences.
While it can be comforting to return to familiar destinations year after year, it’s also important to mix things up and explore new destinations. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone.
#8 reduce waste and practice sustainable living while RVing.
Living sustainably is important for the health of our planet, and RVers can play a role in reducing their environmental impact. Consider adopting habits like recycling, composting, and using reusable containers.
#9 Invest in new gear to enhance your RVing experience.
Whether it’s a new cooking set, a portable generator, or a high-quality set of tires, there are always nifty RV gadgets to improve your RVing experience.
#1o commit to staying organized while on the road.
It can be easy to accumulate clutter while RVing, especially if you’re constantly on the move. This new year, stay organized and decluttered, and consider adopting strategies like using packing cubes, storing items in bins, or using space-saving furniture.
#11 Take a course to improve your driving skills and safety.
RVing can be a lot of fun, but it’s also important to prioritize safety on the road. Brush up on things like backing up, lane changes, and emergency braking.
#12 Make a point to try out different types of RV campsites.
One of the best things about RVing is the variety of campsite options available, from beachfront to mountain to lakeside. Make a new year’s resolution to try out different types of campsites in the coming year, and see which ones you like best.
A great place to do some campground research is RV LIFE Campgrounds. From reviews and photos to listing amenities and even internet speed, it’s an excellent resource for finding a campground that fits your style.
#13 Connect with other RVers on the road.
RVing can be a solo pursuit, but it’s also a great way to connect with other like-minded individuals. You might make some lifelong friends along the way. The ultimate RV gathering happens at the beginning of each year in Arizona at the Quartzite RV Show!
#14 Plan a group RV trip with friends or family.
RVing is a great way to bond with loved ones, and there’s nothing quite like a group RV trip to bring people together. Organize a caravan and create lasting memories on the road.
#15 Set a goal to save money on fuel costs.
Fuel costs can add up quickly while RVing, but there are steps you can take to minimize your expenses. Reducing your speed and making sure your tires are properly inflated are two ways to save on fuel. This past summer, travelers experienced drastic hikes in fuel prices, prompting Bob Wells of Cheap RV Living to make a video on helpful tips to save on fuel (shown above).
#16 Set a goal to visit every state in the U.S.
If you’re a true RVing enthusiast, you might want to make this one of your new year’s resolutions–set a goal to visit every corner of the U.S. or Canada. This can be a long-term project, but it’s a great way to truly experience all that North America has to offer.
#17 Learn how to cook new recipes in your RV kitchen.
Cooking in your RV kitchen can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s always nice to have new recipes to try out. Grab a cookbook, research recipes online, and borrow some from fellow travelers. Expand your culinary horizons on the road.
#18 Volunteer your time or skills with a local organization.
If you are in a location for an extended period, you may want to participate in volunteer opportunities. Whether it is at a beach clean-up, animal shelter, or soup kitchen, RVing can be a great way to give back to the communities you visit.
#19 Experience van life or tiny home living.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take your new year’s resolutions to an exciting level. These alternative RVing styles can be a great way to see the world in a whole new way.
#20 Join a membership club and get RV park discounts.
There are many RV membership programs and clubs available for RVers, and these can provide a wealth of benefits, such as access to exclusive parks, discounts on camping fees, and more. Some of these are:
The above is not a complete list of all the RV clubs or programs out there, so do some digging and find one that fists your RV lifestyle.
#21 Learn a new language or take an online course.
RVing provides the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge and try new things. By making this a resolution for the coming year, you can enrich your travels and open yourself up to new possibilities like RVing in Mexico for the 2024 eclipse!
#22 Become a workamper to save money on living expenses.
If you’re looking for a way to save money on living expenses while RVing, workamping is a great way to see new places and meet new people while also helping to reduce some of your costs.
#23 Record your travels through Journaling or photography.
Documenting your travels can be a meaningful way to reflect on your experiences and share them with others. So write, photograph, and record video to your heart’s content.
RVers depend on one another to share great locations (and some that aren’t so great). The best place to do it? RV LIFE Campgrounds, the web’s most trusted source of reviews for camping destinations in North America.
Embrace New Opportunities on the Road With New Year’s Resolutions for RVers
There are many potential New Year’s resolutions that RVers can consider as they start planning for the coming year. From learning new skills to seeking out new destinations, the possibilities for growth and adventure are endless.
No matter your resolutions, it’s important to have fun and make the most of your RVing experiences. So as you start planning for 2024, remember to be open to new opportunities and embrace the unknown. Happy travels in the coming year!
#24 Open the underbelly and insulate the pipes so you can reducce the chance of them freezing next winter.
Great post, we implement several of your suggestions already, but can always do more! We are new to the lifestyle, so there are many things to learn and discover along the journey!