Many RVers who love the joys and adventure of the open road have often wondered if they should turn rig traveling into a full-time living arrangement. This type of lifestyle can be an exciting, freeing way to live unconventionally. Whether you are able to earn income while traveling, or you’re retired, it’s important to think long and hard about becoming a full-timer before making this life-altering decision. Calling your RV home is a big leap from spending a few days or weeks at a time in your rig, and being prepared is the best way to make the experience fulfilling. Keep reading for five tips to keep in mind if you are considering living in your RV 24-7-365.

1. Have a clear sense of your financial situation – One of the advantages of living in an RV is that you may save money by not having to pay mortgage costs, home upkeep costs, property taxes, and the other expenses that come with home ownership. However, keep in mind that RVing still comes with a lot of expenses of its own, from fuel costs to repairs to storage. Also, if your job changes when you go on the road full-time (maybe you will begin freelancing or contracting) be sure that your stream of income is stable enough to support the unexpected expenses that may arise. Mapping out a year’s worth of expenses while RVing, including an emergency fund, is a good way to determine if you are financially ready to become a full-time RVer.
2. Pack light – Many RVers report that their first rookie mistake when making the transition from part-time to full-time RVing is that they tried to take too much with them. Remember, part of the beauty of RVing is leading a minimalist lifestyle and not being shackled to one place or too many possessions. Just because your rig will be your new home doesn’t mean you have to pack it with all the comforts of your current abode. Sell items you won’t need or put them in storage, but the last thing you want when starting your new lifestyle is an overcrowded vehicle.
3. Invest in the right RV – The RV you’ve been using up until now for those weekend getaways or summer vacations may or may not be suitable for full-time living. There are lots of options, from motorhomes to towables such as travel trailers and fifth wheels. Many people who commit to rigging it full time enjoy fifth wheels, both for the extra living space and so that they can have a vehicle for use once the RV basecamp is set up (cars can also be flat-towed behind motorhomes).
4. Choose a home base – Even though you plan on traveling the open road full-time, you will still need to have a “legal domicile” somewhere in the United States for tax purposes, driver’s license and registration, insurance, voting, etc. Mail forwarding will also be an important consideration when embarking on the RV lifestyle. While some people opt to have friends or family members receive their mail and forward it on weekly or monthly intervals, a mail forwarding service may be a more efficient way to go if you are willing to pay a fee.
5. Consider clubs, memberships and online communities – There are many RV clubs and campground memberships that can prove helpful when you start full-time RVing. Not only can they offer valuable discounts, but they can also provide great information and tips for new places to explore and they help to create a community of like-minded RVers throughout the country. This sense of community is one of the things that people are most surprised to find that they miss when they embark on the RV lifestyle.