Switching to an RV lifestyle can be daunting at first, especially with little ones to think about. If the process seems overwhelming, keep in mind that many families have happily lived the full-time RV life before you (check out the ouropenroad or bareneckers Instagram accounts, for example). By considering these seven things before becoming a full-time RV family, you’ll be well on your way to happy travels.
1. Schedule
regular RV maintenance: You’ll be able to more fully enjoy your RVing
adventures without also having to worry about mechanical issues. Routine
maintenance and a basic knowledge of the inner workings of your RV are
essential for full-timers, especially when traveling through more rural parts
of the country where you might not have access to an expert technician. Bring
all the necessary tools to change a tire and fix common engine problems and
store a spare tire, coolants, oil, and any other parts you might need immediately
while on the road (you can find some maintenance
tips at our blog). When
you've reached a stop, be sure to schedule a maintenance session at the local
garage. If you're in Florida, Arizona,
or Colorado, stop by one of your Lazydays RV Service facilities where expert
technicians specialize in RV maintenance.
2. Make a plan for your kids’ education:
Living in an RV is a rare
learning opportunity. Your kids will be home schooled, the only difference
being that their home will be on wheels. Your travel destinations are an
important part of your kids’ education, so take advantage of historical,
geological, and cultural sites as you travel. Alongside math, reading and
writing, there are some great on-the-road learning activities you can do with
your kids. See Fulltime Families for some great examples of fun DIY activities.
3. Commit to healthy eating:
Switching to the RV lifestyle is a great chance to rethink your family's eating
habits. Our advice? Store fruits and vegetables in green bags
to maintain freshness, and consider canning or freezing as much as you can
store for year-round freshness. Keep in mind that it may be hard to find
healthy food in some parts of the country, so stock up when possible. The last
thing you want is to have fast food as your only option.
4. Exercise: Sitting in a moving
vehicle is no healthier than sitting at home, so plan to schedule regular
exercise, just as you would living in a house. Long hikes, walks, bike rides,
and runs are great ways to get the most out of your destination. Also, be sure
to take turns driving during long hauls so that everyone can stretch out and
move around.
5. Make sure you have Wi-Fi access:
Investing in an internet service plan that includes hotspots or a robust mobile
service will make your life easier, especially if you telecommute for work
while on the road. The kids will want access to the internet too, especially
during long drives. If you can’t get a strong signal while on the road,
consider scoping out Internet cafes at your next pit stop.
6. Necessities and storage: ‘Take
only what's necessary’ is easier said than done, but these tips should help.
Have each family member lay out everything they want to take with them, and then have them pick out one thing they
can do without until the pile is reduced as much as possible. Invest in some vacuum
seal bags for clothing, and a hand-vac.
Full-time RV living is a
lot like camping, and necessitates much of the same equipment.
7. Have fun!: Copy your CDs or DVDs
over to a laptop and consider investing in an e-reader. Of course, a
good deck of cards, or other compact board games, can go a long way while on
the road. Additionally, a bike rack and some hiking equipment will come in
handy for all of your destinations. The real fun of RV living is getting to
travel each day, so make sure you have everything on hand to best enjoy your
destinations.
Visit Lazydays
RV in Colorado, Arizona, or Florida to receive comprehensive RV
maintenance before your family sets out on their next adventure, or to learn
about the different types of RVs available. You can also visit one of our rallies or events to meet
like-minded families that are just as enthusiastic as you are about this
wonderful, rewarding lifestyle.
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The RV Authority welcomes your input. If you have an idea for a blog article or would like to write and submit an article about your RV adventures, please click here to email us your suggestions or questions.
