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Thousands of people agree that life on the road can be a fulfilling, exciting way to travel – and a great option for those who want to live a more nomadic lifestyle.
But what if you’re not quite ready to give up your home base? What if you want to live in an RV but also need stability? Well, there’s good news – you don’t have to choose between one or the other.
With full-time stationary RV living, you can have your cake and eat it too. When you’re traveling, the last thing you want to do is settle down. And yet, sometimes settling down is exactly what you need.
This guide will address all your questions, helping you determine if this lifestyle is right for you and how to make the most of it.
What is Stationary RV Living?
Stationary RVing is when you stay in your motorhome full-time and don’t move around. You park at a campground or some other permitted place where you can get utilities and stay until you decide to move elsewhere. It’s a great way to travel the country but requires extra planning and commitment.
Stationary RV living is a growing trend in the United States. In fact, the number of people who live in RVs has more than doubled over the past decade, and it’s expected to continue growing rapidly.
You can live full-time at an RV park and pay rent monthly. Most RV sites typically feature basic amenities like pools, playgrounds, gyms, and laundry rooms. So living there is similar to living in a housing community.
However, some things make an RV more suited for stationary living than others. The most important thing is space – the larger the area inside your RV, the more likely you will be comfortable living out of it for an extended period of time. So large RVs like Class A motorhomes and travel trailers are often better suited for this kind of lifestyle than smaller ones.
Most people living in an RV work from home, or are camp hosts or tour guides in national parks.
RV living has always been popular among retirees looking to get out of the house and see new places. But now, it’s becoming a lifestyle choice for young professionals who want to travel without worrying about rent or mortgages.
The stationary RV lifestyle has also become a popular option for families who want to get out of their dull suburban lives and spend time together in nature.
6 Reasons Stationary Full-Time RVing is the Ideal Lifestyle
If you’re an RV enthusiast, then you’re probably familiar with the joy of traveling across the country in a recreational vehicle. But what if you could combine that sense of adventure and freedom with the comforts and safety of home? What if you could live in your RV full-time?
Here are six reasons why this lifestyle is ideal for anyone who loves traveling but wants something more permanent than just a tent at their campsite:
1. Experience Nature and Wildlife
Many folks who live in RVs are drawn to the idea of getting closer to nature, and RV life can provide a unique opportunity for that experience. Spending time outside can have a dramatic effect on the way you feel. In fact, a study shows that 95% of people reported feeling relaxed after spending time in nature.
Living in an RV means spending more time outdoors and enjoying nature at its finest. You can hike or bike trails near your campsite or enjoy a peaceful walk through the woods on a beautiful day.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even decide to go canoeing or kayaking on a nearby river.
2. Experiment With Alternative Lifestyles
If you’re unhappy with your current living situation, you may want to experiment with alternative lifestyles and ways of living. Experiencing a new way of life can help determine if this is something you want to pursue long-term or if it’s just fun as a quick getaway.
If you decide to make the switch, you’ll have already experienced what it’s like to live in an RV full time.
Experimenting with alternative lifestyles can also help you discover new interests and hobbies that could lead to other opportunities down the road.
3. Socialize With Like-Minded People
One of the biggest benefits of full-time RV living is it allows you to slow down and connect with others in your community. You can build relationships with neighbors and even get involved in local events.
The community atmosphere at an RV park is a big draw for many full-time RVers. It’s easy to make new friends, and there’s always something going on – from potlucks to holiday parties to organized field trips.
If you prefer having a home base with a good neighborly vibe, stationary full-time RV living might be right for you.
4. You Don’t Have to Sacrifice Living Space for Convenience
When most people think of living in an RV, they imagine cramped quarters and uncomfortable beds – but that’s not true anymore. Modern RVs have plenty of room for everything – from comfortable sleeping arrangements to entertainment systems.
5. Easy Maintenance
Living in an RV means that there isn’t as much maintenance involved compared with owning a house or apartment. You won’t have to worry about lawn care, watering plants, painting walls, and paying bills on time every month.
You don’t need an army of contractors or plumbers at your beck and call when something breaks down because most repairs can be done by yourself with minimal tools.
6. Grounded and Minimalistic lifestyle
Living in a stationary RV can simplify your life and help you focus on what’s important – the people in your life, the hobbies that keep you happy, and the experiences that empower your vision.
When you live full-time in a stationary RV, one thing you want to avoid is letting expenses get out of hand. You can control your costs in two ways:
- Have low or no payments on your RV
- Reduce other monthly expenses
Additionally, there are many ways to save money while staying at an RV park community. For example, many parks offer discounts if you pay upfront for a season pass or an annual membership fee. Some parks also offer special pricing for seniors or military members.
Tips and Tricks to Prepare for Full-Time Stationary RVing
Full-time stationary RV living can get a little challenging at times. But with the proper preparation, you can make your experience fun, easy, and comfortable.
Here are some of our favorite tips to help make the transition.
Choose the Ideal Location to Camp
Before you decide on an RV park:
- Consider its pros and cons.
- Know their terms and conditions, monthly rate, long-term pricing policies, and other living expenses.
- Choose a location that is most convenient to you.
Before settling for a parking spot, survey your options and list their pros and cons. You’ll want to locate the park facilities and choose wisely.
Pick the Right RV Size to Suit Your Needs
Don’t be fooled: bigger isn’t always better.
Choosing the right size RV is a decision that can make or break your camping experience. The correct size will depend on your needs, the number of people camping with you, and your campsite’s climate.
You could look into larger RVs if you want to avoid feeling claustrophobic. On the flip side, smaller RVs can be both efficient and cozy.
In addition, study the floorplan, number and size of bedrooms, bathrooms, and amenities before purchasing.
Maximize Your Space with the Right Organization and Storage Solutions
No matter how big your RV is, you will likely fall short on storage if you don’t efficiently store and organize your belongings. Ensure your things are accessible when you need them and out of sight when they’re not in use
Here are some ideas:
- 1. Use clear bins with lids or baskets with handles that stack neatly in the closet.
- 2. Use hooks, racks, or other hanging storage so there’s less clutter around your RV’s interior.
Invest in Innovative Appliances and Tools for Your RV
When you’re living on the road, you don’t have much room to spare. That means your kitchen can be even more of a challenge than usual. One of the best ways to make your RV feel like home is to buy some of the latest appliances and tools that take up minimal space.
Kitchens aren’t very spacious in RVs, so you might want to look into tools like instant pots and induction cooktops. These storage-friendly appliances are great for quick, one-pot recipes.
You could also install solar panels to cut down on your electricity cost.
Maintain Your RV Monthly
Your vehicle does not have to be on the go to require regular maintenance. Even with full-time stationary RVing, it is crucial to keep your RV well-maintained so that it does not lose its resale value and stays in working condition.
Turn on your engine daily for its smooth operation, especially if your RV is stationary for extended periods. Covering your tires will also protect them from the sun’s UV rays and prolong their life.
Install Your Own Wi-Fi Service
The last thing you want when out on the road is unreliable Wi-Fi. Many RV parks have free Wi-Fi, but it’s better if you don’t have to depend on it.
If you want to get the most out of your trip and be connected at all times, bringing your own hotspot may be the best way to go.
Depending on how long your stay will be, you can consider different options and packages. In some cases, a stable mobile hotspot or a portable device might do the job.
You can even look into Wi-Fi boosters or antennas to improve the quality of signal strength provided by your RV campground.
Use Skirts for Better Insulation During Winters
A good RV skirt can add a lot to your vehicle.
Using skirts for insulation during freezing temperatures can protect your plumbing. Adding insulation can improve your RV’s comfort and extend its life by protecting it from the damaging effects of cold.
It also prevents dirt and debris from getting into your vehicle’s undercarriage, which can cause issues down the line when you need repairs.
These skirts can either be temporary or permanent, depending on the location of your RV park and how long you wish to stay.
RV skirting can cost anywhere from $100 to $3000 and up. The installation makes a great DIY project, but experienced professionals can easily handle it.
Make Good Use of Outdoor Spaces
Your RV park might allow you to have outdoor living spaces if you are lucky enough. You can either make an outdoor kitchen, a deck to chill on, or just an outdoor hangout spot.
The beautiful scenery around your outdoor campground spot will help you relax. A warm cup of coffee and a stunning view makes camping out in your RV all the more enjoyable. And who does not want to give their afternoon a boost?
Using these spaces efficiently can make year-round living in an RV feel cozy and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Stationary RVing is perfect if you don’t want to be constantly on the move. You can settle down in one place and make it your home, rather than moving from place to place every few days or weeks, but still enjoy the flexibility of being in a home on wheels.
Full-time stationary RV living might seem like a major life change, but it can feel just like home with the right motorhome or trailer.
Although there are many reasons to love a stationary RV lifestyle, it’s not for everyone. On top of that, you must consider all expenses before your transition.
If you decide this is the path you want to take while traveling, spend some time thinking about what steps you’ll need to take to make the transition and the new lifestyle work for you. We hope our tips helped you out.