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You probably already know that the Tiny House Nation is a big movement among those who want to simplify, cut costs and enjoy life more. Recreational vehicles WERE the original tiny homes. The only difference is that the backyard changes!
Whether you’re thinking about making this lifestyle change for retirement or you plan to take the whole family with you, RV living takes a little planning…and a lot of getting used to!
While RV living is not “free” by any means, it certainly can be used as a means to drastically cut everyday expenses. But don’t forget, you’ll have fees like campgrounds, fuel, park and activity passes, propane, dump fees, toll roads, etc.
If you’ve ever considered making the transition to full time RV living, here are a few tips:
Learn about your vehicle. Make sure you have a tool set and know how to use it! Don’t get stranded on a rural road or in a small town that doesn’t have facilities to service recreational vehicles. Whenever you go through bigger towns and cities, schedule needed maintenance. Carry oil, filters, everything needed for flat tires, etc with you.
Stay connected. Have a mobile phone plan that includes a hotspot or map out internet cafes along the way. Do your research and be realistic as to how unplugged you really want to be.
Plan to eat healthier. With less storage the emphasis will be on FRESH. Preserve as much as you can and take it with you. Freezer space will be at a premium, plan accordingly. Stop at roadside and farmers markets to pick up what you need for the near future. Make fast food your LAST option.
Be sure to exercise. You’ll be spending long hours in your “home” so get out and hike, bike and play. On the way to your destination, switch off driving so everyone can relax and move around.
Less is more. You really don’t need everything you own to live comfortably. Forget about multiples (t-shirts, towels, shoes, etc) Think about items that can do the same job and get rid of one (or more) of them. Find miniature or collapsible/foldable versions of kitchen essentials. Instead of your beloved volumes, get ebooks over your phone. Think SMALL. Think SIMPLIFY. Think about everything you really don’t need. If it’s a family making the transition, have everyone place what they think is essential in a pile – then start paring down one item at a time. If it’s just two of you – make a game of it, and be RUTHLESS!
Plan to homeschool. Living across the country is a learning opportunity in itself. Home schooling will be a must. Take advantage of geological, historical and cultural sites as you go down the road and make them a learning moment. Tie in math concepts to your travels. Read about interesting things you’ll find down the road. Write about what you seen.
It’s not illegal to live in your camper or motorhome, but that doesn’t mean you can just park it anywhere. If you won’t be in a designated campground, be sure you know the laws of the city and county that you plan to park in…and especially if you plan to stay in one place for long.
For more information and to get in touch with other full time RV living folks, visit https://www.fulltimefamilies.com.
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