Exploring Full-Time Camper Living: Legalities And Practicalities

Living in a camper full-time is a great way to experience the world, but it requires careful planning. While there are no federal, state, or local laws prohibiting full-time camper living, there are laws and regulations against parking overnight, camping, or sleeping in a vehicle in specific places. Before embarking on this journey, it's essential to understand the legalities and plan accordingly. This includes considering costs, income sources, and the practicalities of everyday life in a camper.

Where you can legally park your camper

Your Own Land

If you can afford it, buying a small piece of land can be ideal for an RV. However, getting utilities like electric, water, and sewer connected can be difficult and expensive. Some areas won't provide these services without building permits for a house, so you may need to look for land that already has utilities or go off-grid. Websites like Realtor.com and Zillow.com can help you find land for sale.

RV Parks and Mobile Home Communities

If you can't afford your own land, there are many RV parks and mobile home communities that offer long-term stays. Some will require you to periodically move your RV or leave the park for a few days. Websites like RVparking.com and Campendium can help you find these.

Tiny House Communities

If RV parks aren't your style, you can look into tiny house communities, which are becoming increasingly popular. Websites like TinyHouseMap.com can help you find these communities.

Friends' and Relatives' Properties

If all else fails, you can ask friends or relatives if you can stay in their backyard or on their land in exchange for chores or a small rental fee. However, be aware that this may not be legal depending on local zoning laws.

National Forests and Public Lands

In the US, it is generally legal to live in a camper on federal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the US Forest Service (USFS). These lands provide beautiful scenery and can be a great option for those who want to live far away from other people. However, you usually cannot stay in the same place for more than 14 days.

Businesses

Some businesses, like Walmart, Cabela's, and Bass Pro Shop, will allow you to park your RV overnight while you're travelling between destinations. Always call ahead to make sure this is allowed at the specific location.

Discount and Membership Clubs

There are many discount and membership clubs that can help you find affordable places to park your RV. Examples include AAA, Good Sam Club, Passport America, and Escapees. These clubs often provide discounts at campgrounds and RV parks across the country.

Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome

Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome are networks of farms, wineries, ranches, homes, businesses, and venues that allow RVers to park for one night during their trips. A membership is required to access these networks.

The legalities of living in a camper full-time

Living in a camper full-time is a lifestyle that is gaining popularity. It offers the freedom to travel and explore new places while also providing a sense of stability and comfort. However, before embarking on this journey, it is crucial to understand the legalities involved. The laws and regulations regarding full-time camper living vary depending on your location, and it is important to comply with the local rules to avoid any legal issues.

In the United States, there are no federal, state, or local laws specifically prohibiting living in a camper full-time. However, regulations and restrictions may exist in specific areas, such as certain cities or counties. For example, some cities have laws prohibiting camping or sleeping in vehicles within city limits, except in designated RV parks or campgrounds. Additionally, parking restrictions and local ordinances may limit your ability to find suitable locations to stay for extended periods.

To ensure compliance, it is essential to research the laws and regulations of your intended destination. Each state may have unique requirements, and it is your responsibility to understand and follow them. For instance, some states may require you to register your vehicle with the local county office, obtain permits, or comply with specific parking regulations.

Another important consideration is establishing a legal address, even if you live in a camper full-time. This address determines where you pay taxes, register your vehicles, vote, and receive mail. You can establish domicile at a property you own, with a family member, or through a service specifically for RVers. Florida, South Dakota, and Texas are popular choices for RVers due to their low-income taxes and favourable laws.

When living in a camper, it is also crucial to consider the practical aspects of everyday life. This includes downsizing and adopting a minimalist lifestyle, as space is limited in a camper. Additionally, you will need to plan for essential services such as laundry, waste disposal, and internet access. Maintaining relationships and a sense of community can also be challenging when constantly on the move, so staying connected with friends, family, and other RVers is important.

Lastly, insurance is an essential aspect of living in a camper full-time. Ensure you have adequate vehicle and RV insurance, as well as health insurance for yourself and any pets you may be travelling with. Joining a roadside assistance program specifically for RVs can also provide valuable support during your travels.

The cost of living in a camper

The monthly cost of living in a camper can vary from $1,600 to $5,000, depending on your travel style and the amenities you require. Here is a breakdown of the expenses to consider when living in a camper full-time.

Gas and Propane

One of the main expenses of camper living is the cost of gas and propane. On average, you can expect to spend around $500 a month on gas and between $50 to $100 on propane, depending on your usage and the time of year.

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees can vary depending on the location and amenities offered. On average, campsites range from $14 to $40 per night. Some campsites offer discounts for weekly or monthly stays, while others charge a premium for upscale facilities and locations.

Food

Food expenses can quickly add up, with groceries, dining out, and other food-related costs amounting to several hundred dollars per month. Cooking meals in your camper can help reduce these costs.

Camper Repairs and Maintenance

Regular repairs and maintenance are necessary for campers, even if they are brand new. Common expenses include oil changes, brake jobs, filter replacements, and tire rotations. Setting aside a budget of $200 to $300 per month for repairs and maintenance is recommended.

Electricity

The cost of electricity for your camper can vary depending on usage and location. On average, you can expect to pay around $77 per month for electricity. Solar generators can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional power sources, reducing your electricity bill by up to 40%.

Insurance

Insurance is a crucial expense for camper living. Full-coverage insurance for your camper or trailer is recommended, including collision and liability coverage. The cost of insurance can vary depending on your state, usage, camper type, and value, with annual premiums ranging from $800 to over $1,000.

Health Insurance

Even while living in a camper, health insurance is essential. Basic health insurance plans can cost around $400 per month for individuals and $1,000 per month for families. The cost will depend on the type of coverage and the provider.

Phone and Internet Plan

To stay connected while on the road, RVers typically choose between using surrounding Wi-Fi, investing in a cellular data plan, or purchasing a mobile hotspot. These options range in price, with phone and internet plans costing between $50 to $100 per month or more.

Entertainment

Entertainment expenses, such as movies, outdoor activities, or visiting local attractions, can cost between $100 to $200 per month. Look for discounts and coupons online to reduce these costs.

Other Costs

Other minor costs may include laundry services, mail service, camper wash fees, tolls, and pet-related expenses. These costs can range from $50 to over $100 per month, depending on your usage and lifestyle.

How to maintain a legal address while living in a camper

Living in a camper full-time is a unique and adventurous lifestyle. However, it can be challenging to maintain a legal address for various purposes, such as receiving mail, registering for healthcare, voting, obtaining identification documents, and fulfilling legal and financial requirements. Here are some tips to help you maintain a legal address while living in a camper:

Use a Friend or Family Member's Address

One option is to use a friend or family member's address as your legal address. This method is straightforward and can be helpful for receiving mail and other important documents. However, if your contact person moves, you will need to update your address with all your contacts. Additionally, if you travel frequently, you may need to forward your mail to different addresses.

Mail Forwarding Services and Virtual Mailboxes

Another option is to use mail forwarding services or virtual mailboxes. Mail forwarding services allow you to receive mail at a specific address, and they will forward it to your current location. This can be convenient if you move around frequently, as you won't need to update your address with all your contacts. However, mail forwarding services can be expensive, and some services may not forward certain types of mail, such as packages. Virtual mailboxes allow you to view your mail online from anywhere, but they may not be suitable for all types of mail, and you may still need a physical address for specific purposes.

Obtain a P.O. Box

You can also consider obtaining a P.O. Box as your mailing address. However, P.O. Boxes may have limitations on the types of mail you can receive, so it's important to check the restrictions before choosing this option.

Register Your Camper as Your Domicile

You can establish your camper as your primary residence and use it as your legal address for specific purposes. This option allows you to use your camper address for voting, driver's license, and vehicle registration. However, registering your camper as a domicile can be complex and may require establishing a physical presence in a specific state.

Obtain a Permanent Address

If you plan to live in your camper for an extended period, consider obtaining a permanent address. This could be a physical address, such as purchasing a piece of land, or using a mail forwarding service that provides you with a specific location to receive mail. Obtaining a permanent address can make it easier to establish residency, register for services, and provide a sense of stability while on the road.

Important Considerations

When choosing an option for maintaining a legal address, consider your budget, frequency of travel, and specific needs. Each method has its pros and cons, so evaluate which one aligns best with your circumstances. Additionally, research the local regulations and consult legal and housing experts to ensure you comply with all the necessary requirements for living in a camper full-time.

How to obtain permission to live in a camper

Living in a camper full-time is a great way to experience the world, with the flexibility to move whenever and wherever you like. However, there are some legal considerations to be aware of before making the switch. Here is a guide to help you obtain permission to live in a camper.

Research Local Laws and Regulations

Firstly, you need to research the local laws and regulations for the area you plan to live in. This includes national, state, and local laws, as well as any zoning laws or ordinances specific to the city or county. The laws vary greatly depending on your location, so it is important to be well-informed. For example, in the US, there are no federal, state, or local laws against living in a camper full-time. However, there may be laws and regulations against parking overnight, camping, or sleeping in a specific location. In the UK, there is no law against permanently occupying a motorhome, but there may be limitations on where you can park and live.

Find the Right Location

When choosing a location to live in your camper, there are a few options to consider. You can live on federal or public land, someone else's private property, or your own private property. Each option will have different requirements and restrictions that you need to be aware of.

Federal or Public Land

In the US, it is generally legal to live on federal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). However, you are usually limited to staying in the same place for a maximum of 14 days. In the UK, wild camping is prohibited without the express permission of the landowner.

Someone Else's Private Property

If you plan to live in your camper on someone else's private property, you will need their permission. In the US, some states require you to obtain a permit from the local government and comply with local ordinances. You may also need to connect to the property's utilities and comply with building codes and safety standards.

Your Own Private Property

Living in a camper on your own private property can be more complicated. In some places, it may be prohibited due to zoning laws and neighbourhood rules. Even if it is allowed, you may still need to obtain permits, comply with building codes, and connect to utilities. It is important to check the specific regulations for your city and county.

Register Your Vehicle

In some locations, you may be required to register your vehicle with the local authorities. For example, in the US, states like Arizona, Connecticut, Kansas, and Texas require you to register your vehicle and obtain a valid license plate or registration number.

Comply with Health and Safety Standards

To obtain permission to live in a camper, you will need to ensure that your vehicle meets certain health and safety standards. This includes having running water, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a place to sleep. You may also need to connect to utilities like electricity, sewage, and internet, and comply with trash removal and waste management requirements.

Establish a Permanent Address

Living in a camper full-time usually requires you to establish a permanent address for receiving mail, paying taxes, voting, registering vehicles, and other legal purposes. This can be done by registering your vehicle's location as your official address or by using a mail forwarding service.

Obtain Insurance

Finally, make sure you have the necessary insurance policies in place. This includes vehicle liability insurance and, optionally, additional insurance to cover damage to your camper and your personal belongings.

Frequently asked questions