Living in an RV gives you limited space to play, limited storage for things, and to live. I do it every day. I list how I've adapted and some challenges, tips, and other essentials on how to deal, below... If you're enjoying this and all my other life and RV blogs, please, please please, click the coffee mug, leave me a $5 tip to show your appreciation and by all means, keep reading...
Space. When I lived in a "sticks and bricks” a.k.a. “house” there were only a few places I would hold as valuable real estate. A chair in my living quarters (to watch television and socialize). A desk (where I did my writing and paid bills). A kitchen (to prepare food). A bed (where I slept and watched television). Living in the RV full time isn't so different. I have a desk, a bed and a comfy chair, as well as a kitchen. In essence the RV gives me all the space I need, the space may be smaller but functions the same way. Outdoor space was another solace I remember fondly, but I get that everywhere now that my backyard changes every five months, and I don't have to cut the grass!
Storage. This is tricky. Adapting to having less is ideal before jumping into the full time RV life. Being selective in what is needed versus what is wanted to keep and haul around is essential, because you don't have many options to store. I avoided getting an expensive storage unit in my hometown, because I didn't want overhead or another place to have to check on every time I was in town. Maria and I gave everything away, except for some staples and essentials, to family members and donated/sold the rest. Remember when making this lifestyle change you have to keep in mind weight restrictions or GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Restriction) of your rig. In other words, don't overload, doing so can have a dire impact on the rig, included but not limited to: tire issues, brake issues, axles, and overall safety. RV’s have GVWR for a reason, and should be taken seriously.
Closeness. Being five or less feet from your partner at all times happens with this lifestyle. If you don't like closeness, RV life is probably not for you. I suggest either practicing sitting next to one another for a few days in the same spot, while watching television or doing independent activity. This will help "test the waters." Try some other examples. If there’s a TT, Fifth Wheel, or Motorhome that can be used, block some time off, and live in it solely for a few days. If practicing this "Closeness" works, voila, you’re ready to become a full time RV’er.
If making the decision to become full time has crossed your mind, practice makes perfect, and research is key. The lists I give are important everyday things that I took for granted owning a home and the process to get into my head “less is more” took some time to digest. My will to be free from the shackles of everyday, and to be lead around by a dangling carrot of consumerism, quickly turned my life into what it is today. I love being FREE, and this lifestyle is just that, FREE! Hopefully, someday, I’ll see you all on the road. In the meantime, I’ll try to keep engaging and teaching you here on the blog. Thanks for stopping by! Make sure if you loved the this to share with your friends on social media. Donate a few bucks to me (by buying me a coffee) or just purchase some of my books and merchandise. Every bit helps me keep the site up and running and motivates me!
Thanks for reading.
Tim Eagle
Tim Eagle is an author of the novellas Stolen Seed, Life Ship, and the Vasectomus Collection. He lives full time, on the road, with his wife, Maria and their dog, Cocoa. He grew up in Michigan and is inspired by the dysfunction of America. His books are available on Amazon, godless and this site timeaglefiction.com
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