How To Prepare For Full-Time Stationary RV Living

‍Preparing for full-time stationary RV living can be an exciting experience. What do you have to prepare to live full time in a recreational vehicle?

First and foremost, it's important to choose the right RV for your needs and desire for living space. Next, you’ll want to downsize your possessions, learn how to conserve water and electricity, and figure out how to stay connected online.  It's also important to research RV parks and campgrounds.

We’ve done some research on the best ways to get ready to live out of an RV full time. We’ll cover ideas about How to prepare for full time stationary RV living.

‍Find the right RV for Full Time stationary rv living

When it comes to finding the right RV for full-time stationary living, there are many factors to consider. First, you need to decide what type of RV best suits your needs.

Motorhomes and travel trailers are the two most popular types of RVs for full-time living. Motorhomes are self-contained units that include a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. They come in three classes: A, B, and C.

Class A motorhomes offer lots of space and tend to feel like a home, while Class B motorhomes are the smallest and often good for one or two people. Class C motorhomes offer a compromise between the two.

Travel trailers, on the other hand, are towed by a separate vehicle and come in a variety of sizes and styles. They can range from small and basic to large and luxurious. Some popular types of travel trailers include fifth wheels, toy haulers, and teardrop trailers.

Once you've decided on the type of RV you want, you need to consider the size and layout. The size of your RV will depend on your needs and preferences. If you plan to travel with a large family or pets, you'll need a larger RV with more sleeping quarters and living space. If you're traveling solo or with a partner, a smaller RV may be more practical.

The layout of your RV is also important. You want to make sure the layout is functional and comfortable for your needs. Look for an RV with a layout that includes a separate sleeping area, a full kitchen, and a bathroom with a shower.

Other factors to consider when choosing an RV for full-time living include the quality of construction, the level of insulation, and the type of heating and cooling system. You'll also want to consider the cost of the RV, including the purchase price, maintenance, and fuel costs.

Overall, finding the right RV for full-time stationary living requires careful consideration and research. By taking the time to choose the right RV for your needs, you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle on the road.

Finding a Place to Park or Camp Your RV for Full Time stationary rv living

When it comes to full-time stationary RV living, finding a place to park or camp your RV is one of the most important things to consider. There are a few options that you can choose from, including RV parks, membership parks, and mobile home parks.

RV parks are a popular option for full-time RV living. They offer many amenities such as water, electric, and sewer hookups, laundry facilities, and recreational activities. Some RV parks even offer long-term spots for those who plan on staying for an extended period of time.

The cost of staying at an RV park can vary depending on the location and amenities offered. For example, Silver Spur RV Park in Oregon, charges around $705 per month plus metered electricity.

Memberships

Membership parks are another option to consider. These parks are typically owned by a membership organization and offer many amenities similar to RV parks. However, they are only available to members.

Membership fees can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, and there may be additional fees for staying at the park. Mobile home parks are also an option for full-time RV living. These parks are designed for mobile homes, but some also allow RVs.

Memberships typically allow for long-term spots with hookups for water, electric, and sewer. The cost of staying at a mobile home park can vary depending on the location and amenities offered. It's important to do your research and find a place that fits your needs and budget.

Websites like AllStays offer a lot of info about local parks, places you can and can’t drive with your clearance, gas stations, and more. This can be a helpful tool when searching for a place to park your RV for full-time living.

Getting Connected to the Internet in Your RV

When it comes to full-time stationary RV living, staying connected to the internet is crucial. Whether you need to work remotely or simply want to stay in touch with loved ones, having a reliable internet connection is essential. Here are a few options for getting connected to the internet in your RV:

Mobile Hotspots

One option is to use your smartphone as a mobile hotspot. This allows you to connect your devices to the internet using your cellular data plan. Keep in mind that this can use up a lot of data, so it may not be the most cost-effective option.

WiFi Connections

Many RV parks offer Wi-Fi connections for their guests. However, the quality of these connections can vary greatly. Some may have slow speeds or limited bandwidth, which can make it difficult to use for work or streaming.

StarLink/Satellite

You’ve probably heard about StarLink specifically on the news. Thankfully, the newest brand of satellite Internet became available worldwide in late 2022. To make a long, technical story short, StarLink is a specific kind of satellite based Internet that could be used to power the flow of Internet information to your RV.

Ultimately, the best option for getting connected to the internet in your RV will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to do your research and choose a solution that works best for you.

Making an Outdoor Space for Full Time RV Living

When preparing for full-time stationary RV living, creating an outdoor space can greatly enhance your living experience.

As someone who has been living in an RV full-time for a few years now, I have found that having an outdoor space can provide a sense of privacy, relaxation, and enjoyment of the natural surroundings. To create an outdoor space, consider the following:

Moveable

Look for furniture that is lightweight, durable, and easy to move around. Chairs with built-in cup holders and tables with adjustable heights can be a great addition to your outdoor space.

Shade

You’ll need shade to tolerate being outside in some conditions.  Whether it's a retractable awning, a pop-up canopy, or a simple umbrella, having shade can make your outdoor space more comfortable during hot summer days.

Lighting

Lightning will helpful as both a decoration and a utility. String lights, solar-powered lanterns, and even tiki torches can create a cozy ambiance in your outdoor space. Make sure to choose lighting that is weather-resistant and safe to use in outdoor areas.

Rugs

Rugs can help add a little bit of style to your space - and keep things clean. An outdoor rug can add color and comfort to your outdoor space. Look for a rug that is easy to clean and can withstand the elements.

Garden and Green Space

The road doesn’t mean you can’t garden. Potted plants and flowers can add a touch of nature to your outdoor space. Look for plants that are easy to care for and can thrive in the climate you are in.

Remember, your outdoor space does not have to be large or elaborate. Even a small area with a couple of chairs and a table can provide a space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. By creating an outdoor space, you can make the most of your full-time stationary RV living experience.

Preparing Your RV Kitchen for Cooking

When preparing for full-time stationary RV living, it's important to consider how you'll cook your meals. While RV kitchens can be small, with some preparation and creativity, you can still cook delicious meals. Here are some tips for preparing your RV kitchen for cooking:

Stock up on essentials

Before hitting the road, make sure you have all the essential kitchen tools you'll need for cooking. This includes pots and pans, utensils, cutting boards, and measuring cups and spoons. Consider investing in collapsible or space-saving kitchen tools to maximize your storage space.

Do meal plans and grocery shopping

One of the biggest challenges of cooking in an RV kitchen is limited storage space. To avoid overstocking your kitchen, plan your meals and grocery shopping in advance.

Make a list of the ingredients you'll need for each meal and only buy what you need. This will help you save space and avoid food waste.

Maximize your counter space

RV kitchens can have limited counter space, but there are ways to maximize it. Consider using a cutting board that fits over your sink to create extra counter space. You can also use a stovetop cover to create a flat surface for food preparation.

Use multi-purpose appliances

When space is limited, multi-purpose appliances can be a lifesaver. Consider investing in a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or toaster oven that can do double duty. These appliances can help you cook a variety of meals without taking up too much space.

Organize your pantry and fridge

To make the most of your limited storage space, organize your pantry and fridge. Use clear containers to store dry goods and label them for easy identification. Keep your fridge organized by using stackable containers and baskets. By following these tips, you can prepare your RV kitchen for cooking and enjoy delicious meals on the road.

Getting Solar Energy in Your RV

One of the most important things to consider when preparing for full-time stationary RV living is how to get enough energy to power your RV. One of the best solutions for this is getting solar energy.

There are several options for getting solar energy in your RV. One option is to install solar panels on the roof of your RV. This is a great option if you plan on staying in one place for a long period of time. The solar panels are connected to a charge controller, which regulates the amount of energy being stored in your RV's batteries.

Another option is to use a portable solar panel. This is a great option if you plan on moving around frequently. Portable solar panels are lightweight and can be easily moved from one location to another. They are also easy to set up and take down, making them a convenient option for RVers on the go.

When choosing a solar energy system for your RV, it's important to consider the size of your RV and your energy needs. You'll want to make sure that you have enough solar panels to generate the amount of energy you need to power your RV.

In addition to solar panels, you'll also need a battery bank to store the energy generated by your solar panels. The size of your battery bank will depend on your energy needs. You'll want to make sure that your battery bank is large enough to store the amount of energy you need to power your RV.

Overall, getting solar energy in your RV is a great way to power your RV while living off the grid. With the right solar energy system, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Make a Permanent Sewer Hose for Your RV

Preparing for full-time stationary RV living requires that you make certain modifications to your RV. One of the necessary modifications is making a permanent sewer hose for your RV. Here's how I did it:

First, I closed all the valves on the RV and then twisted the cap off of the drain. Next, I measured the distance between the permanent sewer's inlet valve at the opening of the RV valve .

I then snipper the pipe that I bought to the right length, keeping in mind that it is best to keep it too long because you can cut it again later or coil it up. Once I had the pipe cut to the right length, I added a sewer adapter to the RV's holding tank drains. I then measured the distance between the bottom of the adapter to the ground and subtracted 2 inches. I cut that piece out and cleared any burrs on the end using fine-grit sandpaper.

Finally, I added a a three-inch diameter hose in the needed length to the end of the sewer hose adapter. Having a permanent sewer hose for your RV makes it easier to dump your waste and ensures that you don't have to worry about leaks or damage to your hose.

It's a simple modification that can save you time and hassle in the long run. If you're interested in making your own permanent sewer hose for your RV, be sure to follow the steps carefully and use the right materials. You can also consult with a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself.

Preventing Pests and Bugs in a Motorhome

Living in a motorhome can be a great way to experience the freedom of the open road, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of those challenges is dealing with pests and bugs.

As someone who has spent a lot of time in a motorhome, I have learned a few tricks to keep pests and bugs at bay. First and foremost, it's important to keep your motorhome clean. Pests and bugs are attracted to food and crumbs, so make sure you clean up any spills or messes right away. This includes sweeping and vacuuming regularly, wiping down counters and tables, and storing food in sealed containers.

Seal cracks

Another way to prevent pests and bugs is to seal up any cracks or gaps in your motorhome. This includes around doors and windows, as well as any holes or gaps in the walls or floors.

You can use spray foam or caulk to seal up these areas and prevent pests and bugs from getting in. It's also a good idea to use natural repellents to keep pests and bugs away. For example, peppermint oil is a natural insect repellent that can be used to keep ants, spiders, and other pests at bay.

You can put a few drops of peppermint oil on cotton balls and place them around your motorhome, or you can use a spray bottle to apply the oil to areas where pests and bugs are likely to enter.

It's important to be proactive about preventing pests and bugs. This means taking steps to prevent them from entering your motorhome in the first place. For example, you can install screens on your doors and windows to keep bugs out while still enjoying the fresh air.

You can also use bug spray around the perimeter of your motorhome to create a barrier that pests and bugs won't want to cross. By following these tips, you can prevent pests and bugs from ruining your motorhome experience.

With a little bit of effort and some natural repellents, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road without having to worry about unwanted visitors.

Getting Your Mail in an RV

When preparing for full-time stationary RV living, it's important to consider how you will receive your mail. A regular post box or post office box within a single mail station might not be helpful anymore.

Fortunately, there are several options available to ensure that you can receive your mail and packages while on the road. One option is to use a mail forwarding service. Services like Anytime Mailbox and Escapees RV Club offer mail receipt, scanning, and forwarding for a monthly fee. This is a great option for those who need physical access to their mail while traveling.

Another option is to use a USPS General Delivery address. This option is especially useful when your current RV park or campground doesn't receive mail for guests. Simply address your mail to your name, followed by "GENERAL DELIVERY," the city, state, and zip code of the post office where you want to pick up your mail.

If you plan to stay at an RV park for an extended period of time, you may be able to have your mail delivered directly to the park. Most RV parks are happy to receive mail for their guests and will even deliver it to your site. Some long-term RV parks even have mailboxes on-site that you can reserve and collect mail in.

It's important to note that when using a mail forwarding service or General Delivery, you will need to update your address with any companies or individuals who regularly send you mail. This can include banks, credit card companies, and subscription services. In summary, there are several options available for receiving mail while living in an RV.

Whether you choose to use a mail forwarding service, General Delivery, or have your mail delivered directly to your RV park, it's important to stay organized and keep your address updated to ensure that you receive your mail and packages in a timely manner.