RV living has always been associated with being homeless. These were known to be people who can’t afford a decent home. So they decided to live in a motor home. When a person says he or she lives in an RV, there is always a notion of poverty. To some, it could be. But for a certain special group of people, it is not.
It is actually a simple alternative lifestyle. This is the kind of lifestyle fit for people on the go. These are people who live an outdoor lifestyle. They love adventure and the exploration of nature that they chose to bring their home with them.
Motor homes are designed as living quarters that you can take with you wherever you go. The good thing about it is you can park it anywhere. You can go from city to city. Maybe one suburb to the next. You park near beaches or campsites. Being in different locations makes RV living an adventure.
An RV typically measures between 250 and 350 square feet. Some modern and upgraded versions of the RVs feature slide-outs. This can extend the measurement of up to 450 or 500 square feet at a stretch.
RV living is for people who love adventure. To make this possible one must have creativity, imagination, and some architectural knowledge. With a little science and good motivation and a decision to live in an RV is possible.
Though we must admit that every good thing has its bad side. Although RV living has improved over time, there are still things we need to consider. If we want to choose this kind of lifestyle, we need to know the good and the bad. And this article aims to help you to decide.
The Good:
#1 Affordability
For the most part, money is the main consideration for RV living. No more need to pay rent or mortgage. You can save money on utilities. And you only need to buy a little of everything you need.
Though you need to consider other expenses. Such as gas, insurance, and campground rent if necessary. As there are campgrounds that charge such rent. But still you end up spending less than staying in a traditional home.
With saving and wise spending, you can get by a full month on a tiny budget. Especially if you are a minimalist, you will love this lifestyle. With an average budget of approximately $1,500 or up to $3,000 per month, your RV life is already comfortable.
#2 Travel and Nature.
Research shows that traveling outdoors is good for our well-being. It improves your mood. It gives you a sense of calmness and relaxation. Imagine if it will be your daily lifestyle.
Not only are you enjoying nature and the outdoors, you get to contribute too. As your RV holds tanks of fresh water and sewage is already helpful. As you get to reduce the number of consumers water utility companies serve. Then as you use a battery and solar panels you get to reduce air pollution. This means one less poisonous emission from fossil fuels. You still get to enjoy the comforts of home wherever you go.
#3 Social Discoveries
You also get to meet new friends. Most of them are other RV campers. As you meet the veteran campers you will learn more tricks and trade about the lifestyle. It is also a chance to discover more places, even places you’ve never been to.
Not So Good:
#1 Space Issues
This one is pretty obvious. You live in a 450 to 550 square feet of space, there is not much place to move. You basically live in a shoebox. You have to decide what’s worth bringing and what not to bring. This part causes stress too. And if you bring even a little too much, then your home gets cluttered fast.
Not to mention tiny showers and no bath. Have you tried using the toilet in an airplane, economy class? That is pretty much what you can expect. But as already discussed, the minimalists love this.
#2 Durability and Accidents
Remember that you live inside a home connected to motors. This means you get to experience “earthquake-like” shaking whenever you are on the road. This means you need to make an extra effort to bring stability inside your home. As you run at a speed of about 60+ mph, you need to make sure things will not fall down and break.
It is suggested to save up for budget and potential repairs. Possible road accidents are also something that needs your attention. You have to have your insurance in place in case of uncertainties. There are experienced auto accident lawyers that you consult about this. Remember that knowing means winning half the battle.
#3 Climate Adjustments
Depending on how your RV is made out of, the climate outside will pretty much be the same inside. If it’s hot outside, then expect to sweat it out inside. If it’s cold and dry outside, you can expect to feel the same indoors.
You need to install wall insulation for a little climate control. Some spray foam or foam panels are good. You can also go for fiberglass insulation installed in your RV.
