What if You Lived in an RV?
My husband and I just celebrated two years of living in an RV. I thought I'd give a little update on the pros and cons. (I might add that we are not retired).
Finding a place to park your RV is NOT simple. If you park somewhere for months at a time you must be tuned into a few KEY elements—sewer, electricity, water source, internet options. There are RV parks out there, but they are pricey.
It's not always "cheaper" to live in an RV. Not having a full time permanent residence does not always mean it's more economical. Whether you are parked or traveling, costs add up.
Upkeep is still a consideration. Parts break. Hot water heaters have issues. Engines need attention. RV roofs can leak. You get the idea. You are still maintaining a "residence" of sorts, just a smaller, different kind.
Weather. It's a big deal. Let's just say you are MORE vulnerable to whatever weather you are in while living in an RV. If its cold outside, well, you will be dealing with cold. If it's hot, you better hope that AC is a rockstar!
Not a lot of space for overnight guests. Our kids have stayed with us from time to time. It's doable, but not ideal longterm.
Retirement is not mandatory for RV living. If your job is flexible on "where" you work, then RV living gives travel/adventure options alongside your vocation. It's a way to see and experience new places.
The ability to spend time with people you care about. Being in an RV gives you more options.
Simplicity. Less is more. Truly. I thought I would miss "things". I don't. (I do miss my big bathtub, just sayin'), but there is a lot of satisfaction in a more simplistic daily routine.
Quick clean-ups. If things get crazy and messy, it only takes a few minutes to get the RV back on track and sparkling.
"Adventure" can be more than a slogan on facebook and instagram. It can be my way of life.
RV living isn't for everyone. Or it may be an option for a season of life. It has been a good experience for us. The flexibilities have been worth the inconveniences.
Do you have an "adventure ideal"? My ideal is to own land in several of my favorite places and spend the year in the RV in these various spots. I plan for each RV spot to have a "porch" (with a swing). I do believe the best of two worlds can collide.
Some of your "pros" got me thinking about a book I recently read called Essentialism. Have you heard of it or read it? Makes me wonder if you had read it already.
I was just looking again yesterday for my next home…. on wheels! Nice to read your pros and cons! Planning to get one with a washer/dryer though.