There are plenty of reasons someone would want to live full time in an RV. Maybe they enjoy the thrill of exploring the world, or they have grown tired of routines and nine-to-five schedules. Be that as it may, it's more feasible than you'd think to live in an RV full time. So much so that you can even do it when you have a bad credit score. But we will get to that in upcoming sections.
If you are wondering how to live full time in an RV, this post will clear any doubts you may have. We will cover the pros and cons, a list of considerations, and the best vans to live in. Let's begin!
Can you live full time in an RV?
Absolutely, you can. Up to a million Americans live in an RV. Some do it because it's their only choice, while others do it deliberately. It depends on each couple, family, or individual. While you should consider many factors before taking a leap of faith, it's definitely possible.
Most people sell their houses and belongings before living in an RV. Minimalism helps them make the life change they need to be freer from everyday objects and responsibilities. Plus, it provides the extra cash they need to purchase the vehicle.
RV with lights on
What is RV best for full-time living?
Are you looking for the best RV to live in full time? Some considerations include size, electricity, water, and waste systems.
Size refers to how many people will live in the RV and the number of beds needed. But one should also consider having enough space to store food, personal items, clothes, and more.
Electricity and water are a must when planning on living full time in an RV. You need enough water capacity to shower and cook, and electricity must be enough to keep the lights on, charge electronic devices, enable an Internet connection, and more.
Waste systems refer to a proper plumbing system. Where does the WC or shower water go? You don't need to worry about these details when you live in a fixed home , but it's something to check before purchasing an RV.
Nocreditcampers recommends two particular trailers for full-time living: Palomino Puma and the Sandstorm.
Puma is spacious enough to host a family, using slide-outs to claim more interior space. With the Palomino Puma trailer, you ensure a cozy and ample home for every occupant.
The Sandstorm is suitable for people who need more storage (for a bike or motorcycle, for example). It's best for one or two members instead of an entire family since the storage takes away some interior space.
How much does it cost to live in an RV full time?
As usually happens with these questions, it depends on your circumstances. Do you need to travel? Do you have kids? Do you need to make constant repairs?
If your goal is to explore the world and see and do as much as possible, then everything adds up. But if you go minimalist and cut down your expenses, only buying what's necessary, you won't need a big budget.
The average price is around $1,200 if you include gas, health insurance, RV insurance, repairs, food, and other utilities. You can reduce the expenses by using campground memberships or discount cards like Passport America or Good Sam. You can also avoid traveling too fast, so you save gas.
Home in RV
Considerations for Full-Time RV Living
Pros of Living in an RV
Are you considering selling your house and beginning a new journey? Here are some advantages you'll encounter.
Freedom & Escaping the System
Some people have had enough with nine-to-five routines and the system. They have saved enough money, work remotely, or can afford to travel to work daily. If you are one of them, think about the freedom living in a moving home would give you. Today, you can be by the beach â€" But maybe you want to camp in the mountains tomorrow. Living in an RV gives you enough flexibility and freedom to never settle in one place.
Affordable
You don't pay a mortgage when you live full time in an RV. That means that you can save the money you make for future trips or projects. With a steady Internet connection, you can work as a freelancer from anywhere in the world. But you can also walk, bike, or take public transport to your office daily. Making the right choices will lead to funds you can use for different purposes, from saving to investing in a new enterprise.
Flexibility
Living in an RV helps you become more flexible and stop seeing things as black or white. It's a new experience, and we humans don't always like change. What if you one day wake up homesick? You'll learn to accept the situation and take only actions within your control â€" The others are beyond.
RV under a tree
Cons of Living in an RV
Likewise, there are disadvantages one can't overlook before making such a decision.
Repairs
An RV will always need repairs here and there, whether it's the engine, the tires, or another part of the van. You need an emergency fund, just in case. Just as you repair the furnace and replace the items at home, you'll be doing that in your brand new van too.
Healthcare
Healthcare becomes challenging when you don't have a fixed residence. You probably need to document your new home before asking for benefits or healthcare, but we will cover that in an upcoming section.
Privacy
Enjoying privacy in a van can be challenging, especially if you have a family with more than two or three members. It's a good idea to set up curtains or dividers, create a schedule for the bathroom, and have common areas for everyone to enjoy time together. You can also set up a tent right outside the RV, so any member who doesn't need privacy at that moment can go out and leave more space for others.
Your Guide to Full-Time RV Living
Official Documentation
Do you plan on living in an RV full time? Then go through the legalities to prevent any unpleasant surprises. You need to link your RV to one land (such as an RV camping), have someone inspect your vehicle, and more. It can sound overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! A lawyer or expert can walk you through the necessary steps to ensure everything is legal.
Payment & Credits
RVs usually cost anything from $10,000 to $150,000, depending on the model and features. The more space, storage, and convenience you need, the more pricey the RV will be.
Some people sell their houses to have enough money to purchase the vehicle, but others are not as lucky. Nocreditcampers provides loans and finance for RVs, even for those with a bad credit score. We believe that everyone should have an opportunity to live their best life. Are you thinking of making the next move? Then apply for a loan at nocreditcampers.com.
Hygiene
Hygiene is one aspect that concerns many people who begin living full time in an RV. It can be more challenging to stay clean within a vehicle, but these tips will help you make it through.
Disinfect the RV frequently. Pay extra attention to door handles, light switches, and the steering wheel.
Frequent laundry. Many people who live in vans head to laundromats once a week. The more dirty clothes you keep at home, the less hygienic your space becomes.
Take off your shoes. Campings and other areas are perfect for getting your shoes dirty. Take them off before entering your new home to preserve the floor and other furniture.
Food tents. Use them to prevent bugs from touching or ruining your food, especially the fresh ingredients like veggies or a cooked pie.
It definitely is worth looking for a spacious RV with a shower for families. One person (even two) can make it without a bathtub by showering in public spaces, but things change when you are in charge of others.
Privacy
As mentioned above, privacy (or lack of it) can be a problem for some people. Fortunately, curtains and dividers are easy to purchase and install at your new home. They provide visual isolation, so occupants can work and rest without being bothered by external stimuli.
Children & School
What if you have children and want to live in an RV? Learning about school regulations in your country will help you avoid problems. Homeschooling is often a choice for parents who are always on the go or don't want their children attending class for different reasons. If you stick to a program and are confident that your kids will learn what they need in life, homeschooling is your opportunity.
Working Remotely
To work remotely is one of the best options while living in a van. It gives you enough flexibility while still complying with your responsibilities. Consider building (or switching to) a career that offers this opportunity, such as writing, editing, recruiting, data analyzing, etcetera.
Common Questions for Living in an RV
Can you live full time in an RV?
Yes, you can. One million Americans already do that, meaning you wouldn't be the first or the last person. There are some factors to consider before making any major decisions, but rest assured that it's a feasible idea.
What is the best RV to live in full time?
We recommend two trailers for full-time living: Palomino Puma (if you seek space and coziness) and the Sandstorm (if you want more storage or a garage). Please note you should check for size, water, electricity, and waste systems before purchasing a van.
Can you ask for a loan to buy an RV?
Absolutely, you can. You can apply for financial solutions to buy an RV, even for people with a bad credit score. Does that sound good to you? Submit a request, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Final Words
The truth is that you can live full time in an RV, though it may be challenging at first until you wrap your head around it. You need to make sure everything's legal, document the new residency, and get used to your new home.
The best trailers for living full time, regardless of having children or not, are the Palomino Puma and the Sandstorm. If you're considering living in a RV full-time, nocreditcampers is a great marketplace for finding lenders who work with buyers of all credit types. Applying for loan offers is free and easy, so you can compare your options and find the best fit for your needs. Get started today at nocreditcampers.
