Our Full-Time RV Lifestyle: A Diverse and Dynamic Experience

My husband and I embrace life on the road as full-time RVers. We’re not your typical retirees; both of us actively work full-time and run our own entrepreneurial businesses. The full-time RV lifestyle varies greatly, influenced heavily by one’s time and financial status. This community is diverse, from traveling families to retirees adventuring with their pets and those like us, balancing work and life on the move.

Travel preferences also vary widely among RVers. While some seek the comfort of full-service campgrounds brimming with amenities, others prefer the solitude of boondocking in serene mountain or desert landscapes, away from the hustle and bustle. Then there are those who prioritize a stable internet connection, essential for both work and leisure.

The concept of ‘home’ on wheels also differs greatly. Some opt for minimalist travel, keeping their belongings and investments to the bare minimum. In contrast, others prefer the expansive space of a larger RV, regardless of their family size or the number of pets they have. Budget considerations play a significant role as well: while some RVers live debt-free and require minimal income, others continually seek ways to generate earnings.

All these factors collectively shape the unique monthly lifestyle of a full-timer. Below, I delve into the nuances of our life on the road, offering a glimpse into the varied experiences of full-time RV living.

Week One: Setting Up and Exploring

• Arrival Day: Our journey typically involves 4-5 hours of travel each day. Upon arrival, we make it a point to familiarize ourselves with the new surroundings, scouting for essential services in nearby towns. We aim to arrive around 3pm to avoid the challenges of setting up in the dark. Our first evening is usually spent enjoying a local meal and doing some grocery shopping.
• Plotting Rides: Motorcycle riding is our chosen hobby. Depending on the weather, we dedicate one to two days each week to our rides. This flexibility allows us to avoid weekend crowds at events or tourist spots, making weekdays our potential ‘weekends’.
• Our work schedule is also weather-dependent, allowing us to maximize our time for hobbies and exploration.

Weeks Two & Three: Living Like Locals

• Immersing in Local Life: We spend the next two weeks integrating into the local community. This extended stay allows us to work, pursue hobbies, and explore the area thoroughly, taking advantage of better pricing at RV parks and opportunities to connect with fellow RVers on diverse schedules.

Week Four: Preparing for Departure

• Preparation Day: We dedicate a day or two before leaving to tidy up and pack for the journey ahead. This includes stocking up on essentials for the drive, planning our route, and identifying cost-effective fuel stops. Our approach makes this process a seamless part of our monthly routine.
• Departure Day: Our departure process is well-practiced, involving securing loose items in the RV and performing a thorough checklist. We ensure our truck is well-stocked with snacks and drinks for the journey.
• Final Travel Days: The last two days are spent traveling approximately 4-5 hours each day to our next destination. We stay in close contact with the upcoming RV park to ensure a smooth arrival and setup.

Essential Tips for Full-Time RVers

Monitoring the Weather

Weather plays a pivotal role in the full-time RV lifestyle. Staying ahead of weather conditions is crucial for safe and enjoyable travels. Here’s how you can stay informed and prepared:

• Use Reliable Weather Apps: Equip yourself with trustworthy weather forecasting apps to get accurate and timely updates.
• Plan According to the Forecast: Adjust your travel schedule based on the weather conditions to avoid harsh climates and dangerous driving conditions.
• Prepare Your RV: Depending on the forecast, ensure your RV is prepared for extreme temperatures, strong winds, or heavy rainfall.
• Always Have a Plan B: In case of unexpected weather changes, have an alternative plan ready, such as a different route or a safe place to stay.

Traveling Sustainably

Maintaining a sustainable lifestyle while on the road not only helps in conserving resources but also ensures a more fulfilling travel experience. Here are tips to travel sustainably:

• Budget Wisely: Create a realistic budget that includes all aspects of your travel and stick to it to avoid financial strain.
• Eco-friendly Practices: Incorporate eco-friendly practices like reducing waste, conserving water, and using solar panels.
• Embrace the Local Culture: Support local businesses and communities by shopping locally and participating in community events.
• Avoid Overexertion: Plan your travel pace to be enjoyable and relaxing rather than rushing from one destination to another.

Maintaining Routines

Creating a sense of normalcy is essential for long-term travel. Regular routines can significantly enhance your comfort and stability on the road. Here’s how to maintain routines:

• Establish Daily Habits: Simple daily habits like morning exercises, regular meal times, and evening walks can provide a sense of structure.
• Set Work and Leisure Boundaries: If you are working on the road, establish clear boundaries between work hours and leisure time.
• Consistent Pre-Travel Checks: Develop a checklist for RV maintenance and safety checks to perform before each departure.
• Include Downtime: Schedule regular downtime to relax and recharge, ensuring you don’t burn out from constant travel.

Key Qualities for Successful Full-Time RVing

Transitioning to full-time RVing requires specific qualities and attributes, much like those found in successful entrepreneurs. These include:

• Creativity and Flexibility: Be prepared to improvise and find unique solutions, especially when specific parts or ingredients are unavailable.
• Resilience: Embrace the learning curve and be ready to make and recover from mistakes. This is a part of the journey and personal growth.
• Self-reliance: Develop skills for self-repairs and maintenance, or have a plan to manage these challenges, especially in remote areas.
• Strategic Planning: Consider having an exit strategy or backup plans to address unexpected long-term changes that might impact your travels.

Embracing these qualities transforms you from a tourist into a seasoned traveler, enriching your experiences and deepening your journey as a full-time RVer.