Short blog series (part17) RV life

RV life is a minimalist, mobile lifestyle focused on freedom, travel, and living on your own terms.

Living the RV life (Recreational Vehicle life) is all about freedom, mobility, and often, simplicity. Whether you're a full-timer or just traveling seasonally, it’s a lifestyle that blends adventure with minimalism. Here's a breakdown of what it can look like:

🚐 What Is RV Life?

RV life involves living in a motorhome, camper van, travel trailer, or fifth wheel — either part-time or full-time — while traveling or staying in various locations (campgrounds, RV parks, public lands, etc.).

🧭 Why People Choose RV Life

✅ Freedom to Travel

You can wake up in the mountains one day and by the ocean the next.

✅ Simpler Living

Many are drawn to the minimalist lifestyle — fewer belongings, more experiences.

✅ Financial Flexibility

Done right, it can be more affordable than traditional housing (though not always!).

✅ Remote Work

With internet access, many digital nomads make RV life their mobile office.

🛠️ What You Need to Start

🏕️ The Right Rig

• Class A, B, or C RVs

• Travel trailers or fifth wheels

• Camper vans or skoolies (converted buses)

⚡ Power & Utilities

• Solar panels or generators

• Water tanks, filters, and waste management

• Internet setup (Starlink, hotspots, etc.)

📍 A Plan for:

• Campgrounds & overnight parking

• Maintenance & repairs

• Mail forwarding and legal address

💡 Tips for RV Living

1. Downsize ruthlessly — Space is limited.

2. Plan your routes and stops — Not all places are RV-friendly.

3. Budget for fuel, maintenance, campground fees, and emergencies.

4. Learn some DIY repairs — Mobile mechanics aren’t always available.

5. Join RV communities — Online forums, YouTube channels, and Facebook groups are goldmines for tips.

🌄 Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Ultimate travel freedom	Limited space
Live closer to nature	Maintenance challenges
Meet interesting people	Can be isolating sometimes
Minimalist, intentional living	Internet and signal limitations

Starting the RV life can feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it totally doable. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you go from "curious" to "keys in hand":

✅ Step 1: Define Your Why

Before buying anything:

• Why do you want RV life?

  • Full-time living or weekend trips?

  • Working remotely or retiring?

  • Seeking adventure, lower cost of living, or freedom?

Your answer will shape everything else — especially the type of RV and your setup.

🚐 Step 2: Choose the Right RV

There’s no “one size fits all,” so consider:

Type	Description	Best For
Class A	Large, bus-style motorhome	Long-term, luxury living
Class B (Campervan)	Van-sized, compact	Solo travelers or couples
Class C	Mid-sized motorhome with over-cab bed	Families, balance of size & driveability
Travel Trailer	Towable RV	People with a tow vehicle already
Fifth Wheel	Larger towable, needs a truck with 5th wheel hitch	Spacious living, long stays
Skoolie/DIY Van	Converted bus/van	Budget-conscious or custom builds

👉 Tip: Rent before you buy (check out sites like Outdoorsy or RVshare) to try different styles.

💵 Step 3: Budget & Save

You'll need a budget for:

• RV Purchase (new or used — used saves $$$)

• Initial Setup Costs (gear, insurance, maintenance)

• Monthly Expenses:

  • Fuel

  • Campsites or RV parks

  • Internet/phone

  • Food

  • Maintenance & repairs

  • Insurance & registration

🛠️ Step 4: Gear Up

Essential gear includes:

• Sewer hose, water hose, and filters

• Leveling blocks

• Surge protector and extension cords

• Solar panels or generator (optional but useful)

• Cooking gear and compact storage bins

• Internet setup (Starlink, cell hotspot, etc.)

🧳 Step 5: Downsize & Prep

If you're going full-time:

• Start decluttering now — space is tight

• Sell or store what you don’t need

• Set up mail forwarding (like Escapees or Traveling Mailbox)

• Establish a domicile state if you're going full-time (for taxes, registration, etc.)

🗺️ Step 6: Plan Your First Trip

• Start short: try a weekend trip nearby

• Learn how to:

  • Dump tanks

  • Fill water

  • Level the RV

  • Connect to power

• Use apps like Campendium, iOverlander, RV Life, or Harvest Hosts to find stays

🌐 Step 7: Join the Community

There’s an amazing RV community out there:

• YouTube channels (e.g., Keep Your Daydream, Eamon & Bec)

• Facebook groups

• Reddit communities: r/GoRVing, r/vandwellers

• RV clubs: Escapees, FMCA, Boondockers Welcome

⚠️ Bonus: Common First-Time Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying too big too soon

• Not checking height clearances

• Not budgeting for maintenance

• Assuming free camping is easy (boondocking takes planning)

• Forgetting to secure items before driving

RV life is about freedom, flexibility, and living on your own terms — whether you're chasing sunsets, escaping 9–5 routines, or just simplifying. It’s not always easy — there’s maintenance, tight spaces, and unpredictable weather — but for many, the trade-offs are worth it.

If you’re someone who values experiences over stuff, craves mobility, and doesn’t mind a few bumps on the road for a front-row seat to nature, RV life can be incredibly rewarding.

Key Takeaways:

• 🧭 Start with your “why” — your goals shape everything.

• 🚐 Choose the right rig for your lifestyle and comfort level.

• 🛠️ Prepare and plan — the more you learn before hitting the road, the better.

• 🌄 Expect challenges, but embrace the freedom.

• 🤝 Lean on the community — you're not alone.

Whether you dive in full-time or just explore part-time, RV life is less about the vehicle and more about the journey.

Thanks for reading!!!!