The Downside of Living Full-Time in an RV

RVs can be wonderful places to live if you don't need much in the way of furniture. They come with built-in furniture, are simple and inexpensive. However, they are also small, and although they offer freedom, the cost of running an RV can be significant, and the feeling of being 'homeless' can be a reality.

Living in an RV

Living in an RV is not ideal for everyone, especially families. It may be a good option for individuals or couples looking for a simpler, more cost-effective lifestyle. However, for many, the downsides outweigh the benefits.

Freedom vs. Cost

While the freedom of living in an RV may seem appealing, it comes with a significant cost. The daily expenses include fuel, parking, maintenance, insurance, and RV payments. These costs can add up quickly and limit your financial flexibility.

'Home' and 'Hearth'

The concept of 'home' and 'hearth' is a fundamental part of life, and living in an RV can make these concepts a bit more complicated. Regular cleaning, making your bed, and doing the dishes are necessary in an RV, just as they are in a traditional home. However, without a permanent address, you may find yourself feeling detached from the community and support system that a permanent home provides.

Authority and Residency

One of the downsides of living in an RV is that you can become "homeless" as soon as you give up your address. You are no longer considered a resident, and you do not have a place to belong. This can lead to a lack of social support and can impact your mental health. Society may not be as concerned about your existence, and that can be disheartening.

Adventure or Struggle

RV life can be an adventure, happiness, and enjoyment, but it can also be a life of struggle. Repairs, lack of money, parking tickets, towing, and the need to move frequently can all be part of the experience. Theft and robbery are also potential issues. Even experienced RVers, who find themselves taking cruises for a change, still face the challenges of adapting to new environments.

Escape Plan

As you age, living in an RV can become more challenging. You need an escape plan for health issues, money, death, accidents, and being a caregiver to family. Having a 'Martha Plan' is important to ensure that you have a place to go if these situations arise. This plan helps you prepare for unexpected changes and provides a sense of security.

Personal Experience

I have been traveling in RVs for work and living on the road. Although convenient, I have also experienced the challenges of frequent meetings and being away from home. The idea of having a permanent home is still important to me, even as an RV resident. I have realized that the "case of the outs" can be a real problem when you're living in an RV. You can get out of it and move to another location, but the feeling of being somewhere else can be persistent.

A Story of Resilience

I met a woman named Martha at a Thousand Trails campground. She was 95 years old, driving a 1959 Cadillac Coupe DeVille and pulling a 16-foot Scottsmen trailer, all by herself. For the past 21 days, she had moved between three campgrounds. She managed to live this way, picking up her meals on wheels, getting her senior food from the food bank, and volunteering at community churches. She had a complex plan and managed to live solely on her SSA check and survivors benefit.

This story highlights the resilience and independence that can come from living in an RV, but it also underscores the importance of having a plan and support system, especially as you get older.

Conclusion

While living in an RV can offer a unique and fulfilling lifestyle, it is not without its challenges. Understanding these downsides, and planning accordingly, is crucial before making any major decisions. Whether you are considering an RV life or already living in one, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected and to have a plan for emergencies.