Katie and Pierce
Choosing the right RV for full time living is a big decision. After all, this vehicle isn’t just going to be your weekend getaway spot. It’s going to be your home! Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family looking to embrace the RV lifestyle, this guide will help you make the best choice for your needs.
Understanding Your Key Considerations
Before you start browsing RV listings, take some time to think about how you’ll actually use your RV. Your travel style and goals play a huge role in determining which RV will work best for you.
Are you planning to visit lots of national parks? You’ll want to consider length restrictions, as many national park campgrounds can’t accommodate RVs longer than 35 feet. If you’re more interested in staying at RV resorts with full hookups, size becomes less of a concern.
How often you plan to move matters too. If you enjoy changing locations frequently, a more manageable size and easy setup might be priorities. For those planning to park for extended periods, a larger RV with more living space could be the better choice.
Your camping style is another crucial factor. Planning to do lots of boondocking (camping without hookups)? You’ll need to look for larger tank sizes and solar capability. If you’ll mainly stay at developed campgrounds, these features become less critical.
Understanding the Budget
Making the leap into full time RV living requires careful financial planning. Let’s break down all the costs you’ll need to consider.
Initial Purchase Costs
The upfront cost of your RV can vary dramatically based on type and size. New Class A motorhomes can range from $100,000 to over $500,000, while travel trailers might start around $20,000. Fifth wheels typically fall somewhere in between. Remember that you might also need a tow vehicle, which can add $40,000 or more to your initial investment if you’re buying new.
Monthly Operating Costs
Your ongoing expenses will include several categories:
Campground Fees: These can range from free (boondocking on public lands) to over $100 per night at luxury RV resorts. Monthly rates typically offer significant discounts, often running $500 to $1,500 depending on location and amenities.
Fuel: This is often one of the largest variable expenses. Class A motorhomes might get 6 to 10 mpg, while a truck pulling a travel trailer might average 8 to 12 mpg. Your monthly fuel cost will depend heavily on how frequently you move.
Insurance: Full time RV insurance is different from recreational coverage and typically costs more. Expect to pay $1,000 to $3,000 annually, depending on your rig and coverage levels.
Maintenance: Plan to set aside at least $100 to $200 monthly for routine maintenance. Major repairs can cost thousands, so many full timers maintain an emergency fund specifically for RV issues.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Several less obvious expenses can impact your budget:
- Storage fees if you need to store furniture or other belongings from your previous home
- Connectivity aka mobile internet solutions, satellite TV, and cell phone plans
- Propane for heating, cooking, and hot water
- Toll roads
- State or national park passes
Money Saving Strategies
Several effective strategies can help manage the costs of full time RV living.
Many experienced RVers join camping clubs to access discounted rates at participating campgrounds across the country. Using reward credit cards specifically for fuel purchases can help offset one of the biggest expenses of RV life.
Careful route planning also plays a crucial role in minimizing fuel consumption. Many full timers have found success with work camping opportunities, where they work part time at campgrounds or other locations in exchange for free or reduced camping fees.
Additionally, taking advantage of off season rates in popular destinations can lead to substantial savings while potentially providing a more peaceful camping experience with fewer crowds.
New vs Used: Making the Right Choice
The decision between buying new or used is one of the most significant choices you’ll make. Each option has distinct advantages and considerations.
Buying New
Advantages:
- Everything is pristine and unused
- Full warranty coverage
- Latest features and technology
- Ability to customize options
- Known maintenance history from day one
Disadvantages:
- Significant depreciation (20 to 30% in the first year)
- Higher insurance costs
- Higher initial purchase price
- Potential first year issues to work out
- May still need modifications for full time living
Buying Used
Advantages:
- Lower initial cost
- Less depreciation impact
- Previous owner may have already worked out issues
- Often comes with upgrades already installed
- More value for your money in terms of features
Disadvantages:
- Unknown maintenance history
- Potential hidden problems
- May need immediate repairs or updates
- Older systems and technology
- Limited or no warranty coverage
Finding the Sweet Spot
Many experienced RVers recommend looking for RVs that are 1 to 2 years old with low mileage (3,000 to 7,000 miles). These units have typically depreciated significantly from their new price but are still in excellent condition. The first owner has likely discovered and addressed any initial problems, while the RV is still relatively current in terms of features and technology.
Tips for Used RV Shopping
When shopping for a used RV, following a comprehensive evaluation process will help ensure you make a sound investment. Start by getting a professional inspection before any purchase, as experienced RV inspectors can spot potential issues that might not be obvious to the untrained eye. Always request maintenance records and documentation from the current owner to understand the RV’s history and how well it has been maintained.
Take time to thoroughly check for signs of water damage or structural issues, as these can be expensive to repair and might indicate deeper problems. Make sure to test all systems and appliances personally, including the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. These basic tests can reveal issues that might otherwise be missed.
Research common problems associated with specific models and years you’re interested in, as this can help you avoid known troublesome units or at least budget for potential repairs. Carefully verify weights and towing capacities to ensure the RV will work with your tow vehicle or driving preferences.
Finally, consider timing your purchase strategically, as January often offers the best deals when dealers are trying to clear inventory for the new year. This timing can lead to significant savings on your purchase.
Types of RVs for Full Time Living
Let’s explore the main types of RVs suitable for full time living, each with its own unique advantages and challenges.
Class A Motorhomes
Class A motorhomes are those large, bus shaped RVs you’ve probably seen on the highway. They offer excellent comfort for travel days since everyone can access the living space while moving. Most Class As provide generous storage both inside and in the basement compartments underneath. Despite their size, they’re often easier to drive than you might expect, thanks to good visibility and modern handling technology.
However, Class A motorhomes typically represent the most expensive option in the RV world. They can be fuel hungry, often getting only 6 to 10 miles per gallon. Many Class A owners also tow a small car for local exploration, which adds another layer of complexity and expense to the equation.
Fifth Wheels
Fifth wheels are popular among full timers for good reason. They offer spacious living areas and often feel more like a small apartment than an RV. The raised forward section creates a bi level floor plan that can make the space feel more like a traditional home. They’re stable to tow thanks to the way they connect over the bed of a pickup truck rather than at the bumper.
The main drawback of a fifth wheel is the need for a heavy duty truck to pull one. This means higher fuel costs and having a large vehicle for everyday driving when you’re parked. Some floor plans can be quite tall, which might limit your ability to park under trees or navigate some roads with low clearances.
Travel Trailers
For those watching their budget, travel trailers deserve serious consideration. These RVs come in a wide range of sizes and can often be towed by smaller trucks or SUVs, giving you more flexibility in your tow vehicle choice. Modern travel trailers can be quite luxurious, with some offering similar amenities to their fifth wheel cousins.
The primary challenges with travel trailers come from their towing characteristics. They tend to be less stable than fifth wheels, though proper weight distribution hitches and sway control can help significantly. They also typically offer less storage space than similarly sized fifth wheels due to their single level design.
Class B and C Motorhomes
These smaller motorhomes excel in maneuverability and ease of driving. Class B vans are perfect for solo travelers or couples who prioritize mobility over space. They can fit in normal parking spaces and are fuel efficient compared to larger RVs. Some newer models feature innovative space saving designs that make surprisingly effective use of their limited square footage.
Class C RVs offer a nice middle ground between Class B and A, with more living space while remaining relatively easy to drive. The over cab bunk area provides additional sleeping space or storage, and many models include slide outs to increase living space when parked.
Essential Features to Consider
The livability of your RV depends heavily on its features. Let’s look at the key areas you’ll want to evaluate carefully.
Living Space Requirements
Your daily routine should guide your living space needs. If you work remotely, a dedicated workspace isn’t just nice to have but essential. Consider how much time you spend cooking and whether you need a full size refrigerator or just a compact unit. For families, separate sleeping areas might be crucial for harmony on the road.
Storage is one of the biggest challenges in full time RV living. Look for creative storage solutions throughout the RV. Closet space for clothing is important, but don’t forget about kitchen storage for appliances and pantry items. External storage bays are crucial for outdoor equipment, tools, and seasonal items.
Systems and Utilities
Your comfort depends heavily on properly sized systems. Fresh water capacity becomes especially important if you plan to boondock or stay at campgrounds without full hookups. Black and grey tank sizes should align with your intended camping style; larger tanks mean fewer trips to the dump station.
The electrical system is another crucial consideration. A 50 amp service provides more power than 30 amp, allowing you to run more appliances simultaneously. However, not all campgrounds offer 50 amp connections, so having adapters and understanding power management is important.
Climate control is vital for comfort. Look for efficient heating and cooling systems, and pay attention to the number and placement of air conditioning units in larger RVs. If you plan to live in your RV year round, having a washer and dryer (or at least hookups for them) can make life much more convenient.
Four Season Capabilities
Even if you plan to chase good weather, you’ll likely encounter some temperature extremes. Good insulation is crucial, not just for temperature control but also for sound dampening. Heated and enclosed tanks help prevent freezing in cold weather. Dual pane windows provide better insulation and reduce condensation.
Look for RVs with quality heating and cooling systems. Multiple air conditioning units are common in larger RVs, and having a heat pump option can be more efficient than running the furnace in mild temperatures. Some manufacturers offer specific cold weather packages that include extra insulation and tank heating systems.
Shopping Smart
Research is key to making a good choice. RV shows offer an excellent opportunity to see many different models in person and compare features directly. Owner reviews and RV forums can provide valuable insights into real world experiences with different brands and models.
If possible, rent the model you’re considering (or something similar) before buying. Even a weekend trip can reveal whether a particular layout works for you and highlight any potential issues. Many RV rental companies now offer a wide selection of vehicles, making it easier to try before you buy.
When inspecting potential RVs, pay special attention to build quality. Look at how cabinets and doors are constructed and mounted. Check the thickness of walls and the quality of materials used. For used RVs, a thorough maintenance history is valuable, as is evidence of proper storage and care.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many new full timers make similar mistakes in their RV selection. One of the most common is buying an RV that’s too large for their intended camping locations. While that 45 foot luxury fifth wheel might feel like a dream home, it can quickly become a nightmare if it doesn’t fit where you want to go.
Another frequent oversight is cargo carrying capacity. Every RV has a maximum weight limit, and it’s surprisingly easy to exceed it with full time living. Remember that the weight of your belongings, water, and fuel all count toward this limit.
Some buyers focus solely on interior features while ignoring mechanical aspects. While a beautiful interior is important, reliability and serviceability should be top priorities. Consider the availability of service centers for your chosen brand and the cost of common repairs.
Final Considerations
Before making your final decision, there are a few more factors to consider. Insurance requirements and costs can vary significantly between RV types and usage patterns. Be sure to get quotes for full time coverage, as it differs from recreational insurance.
Warranty options are worth investigating, especially for new RVs. Understanding what’s covered and for how long can help you budget for potential repairs. Consider the availability of service centers for your chosen brand; having to travel long distances for repairs can be both inconvenient and expensive.
Finally, think about potential resale value. While this shouldn’t be your primary consideration, some brands and models hold their value better than others. This can be important if you decide to upgrade or change your setup in the future.
Remember, no RV is perfect, but the right one is out there for your needs. Take your time with the decision, and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. After all, this isn’t just an RV purchase; it’s choosing your new home on wheels.
