Are you dreaming of hitting the road and embracing the freedom of full-time RV living? We know exactly how you feel! As seasoned RVers, we’ve learned a thing or two about how to start full-time RV living and we’re excited to share our ultimate step-by-step guide with you. From setting your launch date and finding your “why” to budgeting, downsizing, and choosing the perfect rig, we’ll walk you through every aspect of planning for this incredible adventure. So, buckle up and get ready to turn your full-time RV living dreams into a reality!
Setting Your Launch Date: The First Step to Starting Full-Time RV Living
When you decide to embark on the full-time RV living journey, the first thing you should do is pick a launch date. Having a specific date in mind gives you a goal to work towards and helps you plan all the necessary steps along the way. The earlier you set your date, the better, especially if you need to sell your house or downsize your belongings. A launch date also gives you something exciting to look forward to as you navigate the challenges of preparing for this new lifestyle.
Finding Your Why: Defining Your Reasons for Choosing Full-Time RV Life
As you plan for full-time RV living, it’s crucial to identify your “why.” Ask yourself what motivates you to pursue this lifestyle. Do you want to visit all the national parks, reconnect with distant family and friends, or simply enjoy a more adventurous way of life?
Keep your reasons in mind throughout the planning process, as they will help you stay focused and motivated when faced with challenges or doubts.
Breaking the News: How to Tell Family and Friends About Your Full-Time RV Living Plans
Telling your loved ones about your decision to live full-time in an RV can be daunting. In our case, it was relatively smooth, as our family and friends were supportive. However, some people may face resistance or concerns from their loved ones. If this happens, stay true to your dreams and reassure them that you’ve thoroughly planned for this new chapter. Emphasize that life is short, and this is something you feel compelled to do. Ultimately, it’s your life, and you should follow your heart.
Emergency & Maintenance Funds: Budgeting for the Unexpected in Full-Time RV Living
When transitioning to full-time RV living, it’s essential to have an emergency fund that covers 3-6 months of expenses. This buffer will help you weather unexpected events, such as job loss or major repairs, without derailing your plans. Separate from your emergency fund, you should also set aside money for regular maintenance and repairs. RVs require upkeep, and repair costs can add up quickly, so budget accordingly to avoid financial stress down the road.
Jobs on the Road: How to Earn a Living While Full-Time RVing
One of the most common questions about full-time RV living is how to earn a living on the road. As digital marketers, we have the flexibility to work remotely. If your current job allows for remote work, discuss this possibility with your employer. If not, consider exploring new career paths or freelance opportunities that align with your skills and passions. There are numerous ways to earn income while traveling, from workamping and online teaching to running a mobile business. Research your options and start planning your income strategy early.
Staying Connected: Internet Options for Full-Time RV Living
Reliable internet access is a must for many full-time RVers, especially those who work remotely. When we started our RV journey, internet connectivity was our top priority. We invested in a Starlink satellite internet system and a T-Mobile home internet plan as a backup. These options have worked well for us, providing consistent coverage across the country. However, there are several other mobile internet solutions available, such as cellular data plans and Wi-Fi boosters. Research your options and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Purging Your Stuff: How to Downsize for Full-Time RV Living
Downsizing your belongings is a significant part of preparing for full-time RV living. This process can be overwhelming, but it’s also incredibly liberating.
Start by categorizing your items into five groups:
- Keep in the RV
- Sell
- Donate
- Trash
- Storage
Be ruthless in your decluttering, as space is limited in an RV. You may be surprised to find that items you once thought were valuable are not worth much. Focus on keeping the essentials and letting go of the rest. If you do decide to store some items, be selective and calculate the long-term costs of storage versus the value of the items.
Choosing the Right RV for Full-Time Living: Factors to Consider
Selecting the perfect RV for full-time living is a highly personal decision. We chose our rig after attending the Tampa RV Show, where we could tour a wide variety of models and layouts. When choosing your RV, consider factors such as size, floor plan, storage space, and amenities. Also, consider your personal comfort level on towing and size. Think about your specific needs and preferences, such as whether you require a dedicated workspace or a large kitchen. Don’t rush the decision; take your time to explore different options and consult with experienced full-time RVers to gather insights. You may even consider renting a rig similar to the one you have an eye on.
Full-Time RV Insurance: Protecting Yourself and Your Home on Wheels
When transitioning to full-time RV living, it’s crucial to upgrade your RV insurance to a full-time policy. Full-time coverage differs from recreational RV insurance, as it accounts for the increased risk associated with living in your RV year-round. Make sure your policy includes adequate liability coverage and protection for your personal belongings. Additionally, consider adding emergency expense coverage, which helps pay for lodging and transportation if your RV is out of commission for an extended period due to a covered repair.
Transitioning Out: Making the Leap from Traditional Housing to Full-Time RV Living
To make the transition from traditional housing to full-time RV living smoother, we recommend moving into your RV near your current home for a few weeks or months before hitting the road. Sort of like a going full-time elevated shakedown trip. This allows you to get acquainted with your new living space in a full-time sense, identify any necessary modifications or supplies, and address any issues that arise. Being close to your house during this transition period also makes it easier to finalize any remaining tasks, such as cleaning out storage units or forwarding mail.
Final Visits: What to Do Before Starting Your Full-Time RV Journey
Before embarking on your full-time RV adventure, schedule necessary appointments and visits, such as dental checkups, medical exams, and haircuts. This is also an excellent time to have candid conversations with your healthcare providers about managing prescriptions and medical needs while on the road. Some medications, particularly controlled substances, may be challenging to obtain in different states. Work with your doctors to create a plan that ensures you have access to the medications you need while traveling.
Establishing Your Domicile: Legal Considerations for Full-Time RVers
Choosing a domicile is an important legal consideration for full-time RVers. A domicile is your official state of residence, which determines where you pay taxes, register to vote, and obtain driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations. Popular domicile states for RVers include Florida, Texas, and South Dakota, as they have no state income tax and RV-friendly policies. We chose Florida as our domicile state and use Escapees RV Club Domicile Service. We highly recommend them. They made it easy. Research the domicile options and requirements thoroughly to determine which state best suits your needs.
Handling Mail on the Road: Solutions for Full-Time RVers
Managing mail is a common concern for full-time RVers. A reliable mail forwarding service is essential to ensure you receive important documents and packages while on the road. We use Escapees RV Club’s Mail Service which allows us to view our mail online, request scans of specific items, and have our mail forwarded to our current location. Other popular mail forwarding services include Good Sam and Americas Mailbox. When choosing a service, consider factors such as cost, online access, and the ability to manage your mail remotely.
FREE RV Budget Tracking Spreadsheet: A Tool to Help You Start Full-Time RV Living
Budgeting is a crucial aspect of full-time RV living, but it can be challenging to know where to start. To help you plan and track your expenses, we’ve created a FREE RV budget tracking spreadsheet that you can download here. This spreadsheet allows you to input your income and expenses, set monthly and yearly budgets, and monitor your spending. Using this tool, you can ensure that your finances remain on track as you navigate the full-time RV lifestyle.
Trip Planning: How to Plan Your Full-Time RV Adventures
Planning your travels is an exciting part of full-time RV living, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when you’re first starting out. We use RV Life Pro Trip Wizard, an online tool that helps us map out our routes, find campgrounds, and estimate travel costs. When planning your trips, consider factors such as weather, peak travel seasons, and the proximity to family, friends, or events you want to attend. Don’t be afraid to keep your plans flexible, as unexpected opportunities or challenges may arise along the way.
Dealing With Your House: Options for Homeowners Transitioning to Full-Time RV Living
If you own a home, you’ll need to decide what to do with it when transitioning to full-time RV living. You have several options, including selling, renting, or keeping your house. We initially chose to rent our house through a property management company, which allowed us to generate income and maintain the option to return if full-time RV living didn’t work out. However, after a year, we ultimately decided to sell our house. Consider your long-term goals, financial situation, and emotional attachment to your home when deciding which path to take.
Finding Your Groove: Adjusting to Full-Time RV Living in the First Few Months
The first few months of full-time RV living can be both exhilarating and challenging as you adapt to your new lifestyle. Be patient with yourself and your travel companions during this adjustment period. Establish routines and systems that work for your family, such as dividing responsibilities and creating checklists for setting up and breaking down camp. Remember that it’s okay to take things slowly and make mistakes along the way. Embrace the learning curve and celebrate the small victories as you find your groove in this incredible adventure.
Now, Get Out There and Live Like There’s No Tomorrow
mbarking on a full-time RV living journey is one of the most exhilarating and life-changing decisions you’ll ever make. By following the steps we’ve outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to hitting the road with confidence and excitement. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to full-time RV living – it’s all about finding what works best for you and your family. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the triumphs, and never lose sight of the incredible experiences that await you on the open road. So, what are you waiting for? Set your launch date, start planning, and get ready to live life like there’s no tomorrow!
