RVing isn’t just for retired folks anymore—people of all ages are taking it up, and some of them are doing it full-time. RVing has become a culture of its own, complete with RV magazines, RV blogs, RV facebook groups, and RV campgrounds that cater to the RVer’s every question and need.
It’s More Affordable Than You Think
One couple, Heath and Alyssa, calculated that the cost of buying their RV ($11,500) was equivalent to what it would’ve cost them for one year of rent. And since you have a kitchen, you can cook your own meals, saving a lot on food expenses. Gas costs aren’t as bad as you might think either. Typically, RVs get 10 miles per gallon. If gas costs $4 (a high estimate), the fuel expense for a 1,000-mile trip will be $400.
Of course, there are campsite fees. The average private RV campground costs around $40 to $45 per night, with discounts often being offered for weekly or monthly stays. Given that most RVers like to stay in one place for more than a few days, your average monthly cost could be between $600 to $900 per month. What’s more, most RV parks include utilities, and even some conveniences like internet and TV services, in the lot rent. With expenses this low, you could even pay off some debt.
You’ll Get to See Some New Places
Have you dreamed of visiting the 50 states? Well, with an RV, you can visit 49 of them. And you’re not just limited to the United States—your adventure can extend to Canada, Mexico, or even South America! Travel to any place south of Mexico is risky and complicated, but there are RV touring companies that offer to handle all the details for you while also offering you the opportunity to travel with other RVers. What’s better than getting to see new places and making new friends at the same time?
You’ll Need to Figure Out a Way to Make an Income
Finding or creating a travel-friendly job isn’t as hard as it used to be. The internet has made it possible for thousands of people to work from home. Some people negotiate a telecommuting position with their existing company or work as traveling salesman or become entrepreneurs.
The options can be quite unusual. Heath Padgett sent an inquiry to an online job board and landed a sponsorship with Snagajob, in which they paid him to try out 50 hourly jobs in 7 months and would create a documentary sharing the stories of hourly workers. This option turned out quite well—making a nice income for him and his bride as they honeymooned across 50 states in an RV.
What’s your dream? Perhaps you could afford to go RVing full-time and finally see all those places you’ve been wanting to see. The sky’s the limit!
