10 Things To Consider About Full-Time RVing

Essential Questions When Considering Full-Time RVing

About the Authors: Scott & Amie – The Road Roamers
Scott and Amie are the full-time RV couple behind The Road Roamers YouTube channel and RoamersRVGear.com. With decades of combined experience—Scott with 27 years in auto body repair and Amie with 25 years in real estate—they bring a hands-on, practical approach to RV life. Since hitting the road in their 35-foot Alliance “Avenue” fifth wheel named Ava, they’ve shared real-world RV maintenance tips, campground reviews, budgeting advice, and life-on-the-road experiences with fellow travelers.

As full-time RV enthusiasts, Scott and Amie have embraced the flexibility and freedom that comes with living on the road full-time in an RV.

When considering full-time RVing, it’s essential to evaluate your readiness for the full-time RV lifestyle, which includes constant travel and adapting to life in an RV.

Making repairs is an integral part of the full-time RV experience, as your home on wheels will require maintenance and attention during your travels.

Repairs and Finances

Understanding how to handle repairs can greatly enhance your experience as a full-time RV dweller, ensuring your travels remain enjoyable and stress-free. Connecting with fellow full-time RVers can provide invaluable support and knowledge, helping you navigate your full-time RV journey more effectively.

When it comes to hitting the road full-time in an RV, having a knack for fixing things is almost essential. Driving your RV around is like shaking it up in a way that can sometimes resemble living through a small earthquake. You’ll find that some things come loose on bumpy roads, needing constant attention and repair.

Full-time RV living can significantly impact your financial planning, so be sure to account for the unique costs associated with maintaining a full-time RV lifestyle. If you’re considering full-time RVing, ensure you’ve evaluated how you’ll manage your finances and income while on the road. Building a reliable income stream is crucial for anyone embarking on a full-time RV adventure, as it will help sustain your travels and lifestyle. Understanding the costs of full-time RV living will prepare you for the financial aspects of this adventurous lifestyle. Fixed costs associated with full-time RV living, such as insurance and payments, should be carefully considered to ensure financial stability on the road.

#1) Are You a Handy Person?

In-Depth Discussion: Some full-time RVers find it essential to budget for unexpected expenses that may arise during their travels. When budgeting for full-time RV living, be sure to include costs for maintaining and insuring your RV, as these can vary significantly. In addition to fixed expenses, variable costs such as fuel and campsite fees are also significant for full-time RVers to factor into their budgets. Understanding the variable costs associated with full-time RV living can help you create a sustainable budget for your travels. Full-time RVers need to account for maintenance and repair costs to keep their homes on wheels in top condition. Being mechanically inclined is a big plus when you’re full-time RVing because repairs come with the territory. From minor fixes like tightening screws to more serious issues like plumbing or electrical problems, the ability to handle these can save you both time and money. Prior mechanical skills like Scott has aren’t mandatory, but a willingness to learn is key. Many RVers find themselves picking up new skills along the way, which can be empowering and alleviates frustration down the road.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: Scott and Amie, seasoned full time RVers from “The Road Roamers” YouTube channel, share that having a basic tool kit and learning from online resources or experienced RV friends can be invaluable. They recommend starting with simple tutorials on RV maintenance and gradually tackling more intricate repairs. It’s also smart to network with other RVers who can offer know-how and lending hands when needed. You can start by watching The Road Roamers play list “RV Intructional and Repair Videos” on YouTube! Please be sure to Like, Share and Subscribe to our Channel TheRoadRoamers.

🔧 Watch more helpful content on our RV Instructional & Repair playlist On YouTube— and don’t forget to Like, Share & Subscribe to The Road Roamers on YouTube!

#2) Do You Have a Solid Financial Plan and Income?

In-Depth Discussion: Financial preparedness is crucial for the full-time RVer. It’s not just about covering daily expenses; unexpected costs pop up frequently, like sudden repairs or changes in travel plans. Budgeting for these contingencies is crucial. Then there’s the strategic decision of keeping or selling your home. Selling means liquid cash but relinquishing your safety net, while keeping it can serve as an investment or fallback.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: The Road Roamers advocate for creating a detailed budget, accounting for everything from fuel to food, repairs, and entertainment. They also highlight the importance of having a diverse income stream, whether through remote work, seasonal gigs, work camping or other flexible options like Affiliate Marketing . Scott and Amie suggest keeping an emergency fund specifically for those unforeseen costs. Regarding the choice of selling or keeping your home, it’s a personal call based on one’s financial strategy and risk tolerance. They advise discussing with a financial planner to gauge what’s best for your unique situation. They suggest finding a financial planner that is very wealthy themselves. It certainly give credibility to what they will be advising you on now doesn’t it!

Living full-time in an RV comes with a variety of expenses, some expected and others that can catch you off guard. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

Fixed Costs

1. RV Payment – If you financed your RV, expect a monthly loan payment.
2. Insurance – RV insurance (can vary based on coverage, state, and RV type).
3. Vehicle Insurance – If towing, your tow vehicle will have its own insurance.
4. Cell Phone & Internet – Starlink, hotspots, mobile plans, or WiFi boosters.
5. Mail Forwarding Service – Escapees, Traveling Mailbox, or similar services.
6. Memberships & Subscriptions – Thousand Trails, Harvest Hosts, Passport America, Boondockers Welcome, Netflix, etc.
7. Storage Unit (if needed) – For any personal belongings left behind.

Variable Costs

8. Campsite Fees – Monthly RV parks, state parks, Corps of Engineers sites, or boondocking.
9. Fuel – Diesel or gas costs for towing/driving, which fluctuates.
10. Propane – Heating, cooking, fridge use (if absorption type).
11. Electricity – If not included in campsite fees (especially in monthly stays).
12. Water & Sewer – Some parks charge separately for these.
13. Dump Station Fees – If using paid dump stations while boondocking.
14. Maintenance & Repairs – RV and tow vehicle/service costs, including tires.
15. Tolls & Road Fees – Some states have toll roads or special fees for RVs.
16. Laundry – Campground laundromats or laundromats in town.

Lifestyle & Miscellaneous

17. Groceries & Dining Out – Food costs can vary by location.
18. Entertainment & Activities – National parks, museums, shows, tours, etc.
19. Health Insurance & Medical Expenses – Important for full-time RVers.
20. Personal Care – Haircuts, toiletries, gym memberships (Planet Fitness, etc.).
21. Pets – Vet care, food, and pet-friendly lodging costs.
22. Upgrades & Accessories – Solar, batteries, new gadgets, decor, etc.

Assessing Space, Comfort, and Maintenance Needs

Living in an RV can be surprisingly comfortable, yet it requires a realistic evaluation of your personal space needs. Especially when shared with family or spouse or pet/pets, ensuring everyone’s comfort while on the road is a top priority.

#3) Have You Evaluated Your Living Space Requirements?

In-Depth Discussion: Space in an RV may be limited, making it crucial to consider how much room you need for daily activities and personal comfort. Whether you travel solo, with a spouse, or with family or Pets, each dynamic presents unique challenges. You must assess how well you adapt to close quarters and how it might affect your relationships and peace of mind. Conflicts can arise if personal space isn’t adequate, so communication and adjustments are key to a harmonious existence.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: According to The Road Roamers, selecting an RV with a layout that maximizes space for your needs is essential. Scott and Amie suggest opting for designs with slide-outs for added room when parked and multifunctional furniture to optimize the area. They also recommend arranging living spaces in a way that allows each occupant some personal area, even in tight quarters. If you have kids a seperate bunkhouse design may work best. BunkHouse designs can also be used for an office area, as can a Toy Hauler space.

#4) Are You Prepared for Constant Maintenance and Unexpected Repairs?

In-Depth Discussion: Owning an RV isn’t just about travel freedom; it’s about consistent upkeep. The combination of constant movement and living can lead to wear and tear, making regular maintenance a part of the lifestyle. Predictable checks can help spot issues early, but surprises happen, often at the most inconvenient times. This aspect of RVing isn’t for everyone, but being prepared can make a tremendous difference. Who knows? You may have to Repack your RV Wheel Bearings so your wheels don’t fall off. Click the link for the full article.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: The Road Roamers advise developing a maintenance routine and sticking to it. Carrying essential spare parts and tools is another step towards reliability. They share how regular checks, like tire pressure and fluid levels, are preventative actions that mitigate bigger issues. For those not mechanically inclined, having a network of trusted mobile RV mechanics or service centers along your route can be a lifesaver. As a full-time RVer, staying aware of your healthcare needs while on the road is crucial for maintaining your well-being. Living in an RV full-time can be an adjustment, but understanding your space and comfort needs is vital for a successful transition. Evaluating your space needs is especially important when living in an RV full-time, as comfort ensures a positive experience. For full-time RVers, understanding how to make the most of limited space is essential in creating a comfortable lifestyle. Full-time RV living often requires careful planning of your living space to ensure comfort and functionality.

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Planning your living space is vital for full-time RVing, accommodating both personal needs and practicalities.

Embracing Travel, Minimalism, and Connectivity

Living on the road full-time offers a chance to see the world from a unique perspective, with adventures around every corner. But with this freedom comes the need to adapt to constant movement and a minimalist lifestyle. Understanding the balance of comfort and functionality is key to thriving in a full-time RV living environment.

#5) How Well Do You Handle the Rigors of Frequent Travel?

In-Depth Discussion: The road isn’t just your home; it’s also a constantly changing landscape. Adjusting to life in transit can be exciting but often tiring. It’s important to consider how frequent travel affects your energy, health, and overall well-being. Everyone processes constant movement differently, so knowing how it impacts you personally is important.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: Scott and Amie, The Road Roamers, recommend pacing your travels to prevent burnout. Planning downtime between travel spurts helps maintain energy levels and enthusiasm for the journey. They also say flexibility is key—adjust your plans based on how you feel and use restful stops to recharge.

#6) Are You Ready to Embrace a Minimalist Lifestyle?

In-Depth Discussion: Transitioning to a minimalist lifestyle means redefining your relationship with material possessions. In an RV, space is at a premium, making it vital to prioritize essentials and let go of the unnecessary. This shift can be liberating but also requires intentionality and adjustment to a simpler way of living.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: From The Road Roamers’ experience, the shift to minimalism involves assessing what truly adds value to your life and bringing only what’s necessary. Scott and Amie suggest starting with decluttering sessions and ask yourself what items you truly need daily. If you haven’t used it in a year or so, you most likely wont need it on the road. Incorporating multifunctional items can also be beneficial. Like an oven that can cook many different ways for example. They emphasize that living minimally encourages focusing on experiences over things, enriching the travel life. They recommend embracing the minimalist mindset incrementally to ease into a fulfilling road life.

Ensuring Connectivity, Insurance, and Healthcare on the Road

Staying connected while traveling full-time is more than just a convenience; it’s a necessity for work, staying in touch with family, and dealing with emergencies. Navigating the digital world from an RV requires some planning and ingenuity.

#7) Have You Planned for Reliable Connectivity and Remote Work?

In-Depth Discussion: Reliable internet access is crucial for modern nomadic life. Whether working remotely, streaming content, or maintaining contact with loved ones, a stable connection is key. This requires research into coverage areas and potentially investing in the right technology to keep your connections solid while on the road.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: Scott and Amie, The Road Roamers, rely on multiple carriers mobile hotspots, boosters, and satellite services to maintain a steady connection. They recommend researching carriers for the best coverage in the areas you plan to visit and investing in equipment that suits your usage needs. They also suggest staying flexible; having multiple options ready can prevent connectivity issues from disrupting daily life.

#8) Are You Informed About RV Insurance, Warranties, and Roadside Assistance?

In-Depth Discussion: Protecting your RV investment is as important as maintaining it. The right insurance, warranties, and assistance plans ensure you’re covered for accidents, breakdowns, and general wear and tear. Navigating the ins and outs of these services can be complex but is crucial for peace of mind when living on the road full-time.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: The Roamers emphasize the importance of comprehensive coverage that addresses your specific travel habits and RV type. They advise consulting with insurance professionals familiar with RV living to tailor policies that fit your lifestyle. Additionally, roadside assistance plans can save significant stress and expense during travel mishaps. The Roamers opt for services that offer widespread support based on their routes, ensuring help is never too far away. They also recommend that you purchase a good extended warrantee from a dealership you can trust. Replacing an air conditioner or a refrigerator for example can get expensive especially if you are unprepared for the added cost.

Managing Healthcare, Emergencies, and Social Dynamics

Healthcare and emergencies are critical considerations for anyone living on the road full-time. Having a plan in place can make all the difference when facing unexpected medical or urgent situations while traveling.

#9) How Will You Manage Healthcare and Emergencies on the Road?

In-Depth Discussion: Access to healthcare is a priority that requires careful planning when you live in different locations regularly. This includes knowing where nearby medical facilities are and having access to your medical records. Keeping track of prescriptions and knowing the nearby pharmacies is also important. Immediate medical care access can be challenging, so being prepared is vital.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: Scott and Amie of The Road Roamers suggest maintaining a portable medical file that includes essential health information, current medications, and insurance details. A routine review of nearby healthcare options along planned routes can help ensure quick decisions during emergencies. They also stress the importance of having a comprehensive first-aid kit and keeping emergency contact lists readily accessible. Lastly, be sure to have a health insurance policy that will cover you anywhere you decide to travel. Not all policies do! You may want a PPO type policy where you have the flexibility to visit providers outside of your network. However, visiting an out-of-network provider, in some cases, may include a higher fee and a separate deductible.

Question#10) Have You Considered the Social and Emotional Impact of Full-Time RVing?

In-Depth Discussion: Full-time RV living can influence your social life and emotional well-being. Leaving behind established social networks can lead to feelings of isolation, while constantly changing environments might disrupt deeper connections with others. These dynamics require a proactive approach to maintaining a healthy social and emotional balance. Consider the importance of community and connection while navigating the full-time RV lifestyle, as these can greatly enhance your journey. Regular interactions with fellow full-time RVers and maintaining relationships with home-based friends and family can provide emotional support.

Real-Life Solutions & Expert Advice: The Roamers recommend staying connected with loved ones through video calls and planning visits whenever possible. Embracing the RV community can ease social transitions; attending gatherings or a local church is a great way to build new friendships. Regular communication with family and friends helps maintain connections and emotional health. They also advise being open to unexpected social opportunities, which can lead to incredible experiences and friendships on the road.

Any of these stand out as big ones for you? Any other you can think about? Leave a comment below.

Conclusion:
Each of these 10 questions represents a vital component of the full-time RVing journey. With careful planning, self-assessment, and a proactive approach, you can turn potential challenges into stepping stones toward a fulfilling, adventurous life on the road. Scott and Amie, through The Road Roamers and RoamersRVGear.com, have experienced these lessons firsthand, and their advice serves as a valuable roadmap for anyone considering the leap into full-time RV living. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the idea, these insights will help ensure that your adventure is both exciting and sustainable.

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