Camper Living: Tips For A Comfortable And Easy Life

how to make living in a camper easier

Living in a camper is an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a more modern and cost-effective lifestyle. It can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Here is a guide to help make living in a camper easier and more enjoyable:

- Find your why: Understand your motivation for choosing this lifestyle. Is it to see the world, spend more time with loved ones, or save money? Writing down your reasons can help you stay focused during the planning and preparation process.

- Decide on your living arrangements: Choose whether you want to keep your current home or sell it. If you plan to travel full-time, renting out your home or listing it on platforms like Airbnb can help cover costs.

- Determine your budget: Analyse your current spending to set a realistic budget for camper living. Consider expenses such as campsite fees, fuel, RV payments, maintenance, repairs, groceries, insurance, and daily costs.

- Choose the right camper: Select a camper that suits your needs and travel style. Consider factors such as size, layout, storage, and amenities. If you plan to boondock or camp in state and national parks, opt for a smaller camper that is easier to manoeuvre and has better fuel efficiency.

- Remote work and connectivity: If you plan to work remotely, ensure you have a solid internet connection. Consider using your phone as a hotspot or investing in satellite internet options like Starlink.

- Health insurance: Explore health insurance options, especially if you're leaving employer-provided coverage. Look into nationwide plans to ensure access to doctors in different locations.

- Mail and domicile address: Set up a mail forwarding service or use a post office box to manage your mail. Establish a domicile state for tax purposes, voter registration, and vehicle registration. Popular choices include Florida, South Dakota, and Texas due to their low income taxes and RV-friendly laws.

- RV insurance: Find an insurance company that offers full-time RV coverage. Geico and Good Sam are popular options. Disclose your full-time travel plans to get the appropriate rate and coverage.

- Prepare your camper: Install backup cameras, solar panels, water storage reservoirs, and composting toilets for a more comfortable and sustainable living experience.

- Learn your camper inside out: Read the owner's manual to familiarise yourself with your camper's features and maintenance requirements. This knowledge can be invaluable in emergency situations.

- Research and plan your travels: Create a travel itinerary, including routes, stops, and attractions. Use apps like iOverlander and The Dyrt to find free and paid campsites. Consider the weather, road conditions, and availability of amenities at your destinations.

- Prepare for the unexpected: Expect the unexpected and be prepared for different weather conditions and potential breakdowns. Bring a road kit with essential tools and supplies.

- Join an RV club: Consider joining an RV club, such as Good Sam Community Club or Escapees, to save money on campsite fees and connect with other RVers.

- Pack efficiently: Embrace minimalism and bring only what you need. Prioritise essential items and clothing that can be easily washed and dried.

- Embrace the lifestyle: Remember that camper living is not a constant vacation. Embrace the slower pace, savour your experiences, and maintain open communication with your travel partner or companions.

Characteristics Values
Cost of living Cheaper than a house
Travelling On your own schedule
Lifestyle Simpler, minimalistic, more time in nature
Work Remote work, seasonal work, freelancing, starting a business
Community Harder to stay connected with friends and family
Safety Plan ahead, be aware of your surroundings, trust your gut

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Downsize your belongings

Downsizing your belongings is a crucial step in the transition to camper living. It can be challenging to let go of your possessions, but embracing a simpler lifestyle with fewer belongings has its benefits. Here are some tips to help you downsize effectively:

  • Evaluate your needs: Take an inventory of your belongings and ask yourself, "What do I truly need?" Consider the size of your camper and the limited storage space available. Only bring what is essential and necessary for your new lifestyle.
  • Be selective: Go through your items and be selective about what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Consider the frequency of use and the sentimental value of each item. If you haven't used something in the past year and don't plan to use it while on the road, it's probably time to let it go.
  • Prioritize multifunctional items: Look for items that can serve multiple purposes to save space. For example, instead of packing separate pots and pans, opt for a nesting cookware set.
  • Utilize storage solutions: Invest in storage containers, packing cubes, and organizational tools to maximize the space in your camper. The Container Store is a great resource for finding various storage options.
  • Digitalize important documents: Instead of carrying bulky files and paperwork, scan and digitize important documents, photos, and letters. Store them securely on external hard drives and cloud storage services like Google Drive.
  • Consider storage options: If you're not ready to part with certain belongings, consider renting a storage unit or asking a trusted friend or family member to store them for you. However, keep in mind that storage units can be costly, so choose the smallest and most affordable option if necessary.
  • Sell or donate unwanted items: Turn your unwanted items into cash by selling them online or hosting a garage sale. Alternatively, you can donate them to charities or thrift stores, knowing that they will find a new home.
  • Involve your family and friends: If you have family heirlooms or sentimental items that you're unsure about, ask your family members if they would like to take care of them. This not only helps you downsize but also ensures that precious items stay within the family.
  • Start early: Downsizing can be a time-consuming process, so give yourself enough time to go through your belongings thoroughly. Start the process early, and don't rush it. You may find that you need to go through your items multiple times to truly let go of what you don't need.
  • Seek inspiration: If you're feeling overwhelmed, seek inspiration from books like Marie Kondo's "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up," which provides a step-by-step guide to downsizing. You can also find numerous online resources and communities dedicated to downsizing and minimalism.

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Plan your budget

Planning your budget is an important step in making the transition to camper living. Here are some tips to help you plan your budget:

  • Analyse your current spending: Look at your expenses over the past three months and categorise them (e.g. food, housing, insurance, dining out, gas). This will give you a good idea of your average monthly spending, which you can use as a starting point for your camper budget.
  • Factor in the cost of your current home: If you're keeping your current home, include this cost in your budget. If you're selling your home, the money you free up can be used for campground costs.
  • Set a realistic budget: It's unlikely that you'll spend less on food or entertainment just because you're living in a camper, so make sure your budget limits are reasonable and achievable. You don't want to feel strapped for cash all the time.
  • Consider the cost of your camper: If you're buying a camper, try to pay cash for it or have it paid off before you start living in it. If that's not possible, carefully consider how much you can afford to pay monthly, keeping in mind that you'll also have campground fees to pay.
  • Plan for gas and campground fees: The more frequently you move from place to place, the more you'll spend on gas. Campground fees can range from free for boondocking to over $100 per night for luxury campgrounds during the high season. Set a budget based on the type of places you want to stay and how often you plan to move.
  • Join campground membership clubs: Joining clubs like Thousand Trails or discount programs like Good Sam can save you money on campsite costs.
  • Be prepared for unexpected costs: Budget for unexpected costs such as RV maintenance and repairs, as well as emergency costs like medical expenses.

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Choose the right RV for your needs

Choosing the right RV for your needs is one of the most important decisions you'll make when transitioning to full-time RV living. The right RV for you will depend on your family size, travel style, budget, and work situation. Here are some key considerations to help you choose the best RV for your full-time RV lifestyle:

Size and Space:

  • Consider how much space you need to accommodate your family or travel group. Bigger RVs offer more comfort and space but are also more cumbersome for travel and finding campsites.
  • Think about your daily routines and activities. Do you need dedicated spaces for work, schooling, cooking, or hobbies? Ensure your RV layout provides sufficient space and functionality for everyone's needs.

Tank Capacity:

  • The size of your fresh water, grey water, and black water tanks can significantly impact your RV lifestyle. Larger tanks are advantageous if you prefer boondocking or staying at public campgrounds.
  • If you mainly stay at full-hookup RV parks, tank size is less crucial, as you'll have frequent access to water and sewage disposal.

Features and Appliances:

  • Consider which features and appliances are essential for your daily life. Do you need an in-RV washer and dryer, or are you comfortable using campground laundry facilities?
  • Evaluate your energy needs. Are you interested in investing in solar and battery upgrades for a more off-grid lifestyle?
  • Bathroom facilities are another important consideration. Do you require a full bathroom, or are you willing to use campground showers or wet baths?

Towing and Maneuverability:

  • If you plan to tow your RV, ensure your tow vehicle is compatible and has sufficient power and load capacity.
  • Consider the ease of driving and manoeuvring your RV. Larger RVs may be more challenging to navigate through narrow roads or tight campsites.

Budget:

  • Your budget will play a crucial role in choosing your RV. Consider the upfront cost of the RV and whether you plan to pay in cash or finance it.
  • Remember to factor in ongoing expenses such as campsite fees, fuel, maintenance, repairs, and insurance.

Travel Style and Destinations:

  • Reflect on your preferred travel style and the types of destinations you plan to visit. Do you enjoy exploring national parks, urban areas, or a mix of both?
  • Some RVs may be better suited for specific types of terrain and campsites. For example, larger RVs might have limitations when it comes to accessing certain state or national parks.

Trial and Rental Options:

  • Consider renting an RV before making a purchase. This will give you a chance to experience different RV styles and sizes, helping you determine your preferences and requirements.
  • If you already own an RV, consider doing a trial run by spending a few days living in it before committing to full-time RV living. This will allow you to identify any adjustments or improvements needed to make your RV life more comfortable.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when choosing an RV. Carefully consider your unique needs, priorities, and travel aspirations to select the RV that best aligns with your full-time RV lifestyle.

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Learn to cook on the go

Cooking in an RV or camper van is a little different from cooking in a regular kitchen, but it's definitely doable and can even be fun! Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Invest in some good cooking equipment: A portable stove, a ridge monkey XL, and an Omnia oven are all great options that will make cooking in your RV a breeze.
  • Plan your meals: Create a food plan and shopping list to ensure you only buy what you need and reduce food waste. This will also help you stick to your budget.
  • Be creative: Just because you're in an RV doesn't mean you can't enjoy your favourite meals. Get creative and experiment with different recipes. You can make pizzas, paninis, roast potatoes, and even cakes in your RV kitchen!
  • Stock up on snacks: Driving is hungry work, so make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand to keep your energy up. Dried goods, fruits, and vegetables are also great options to keep in your RV.
  • Find a good parking spot: Look for places with beautiful views where you can cook and enjoy your meals. Apps like Park4Night can help you find camper-friendly locations with amenities like taps and hot springs.
  • Stay organised: Storage space is limited in an RV, so create a storage system for your food and cooking equipment. Use airtight containers and utilise the space in your garage segment efficiently.
  • Wash your dishes efficiently: Invest in a good scrubber wash bag to make washing up easier. You can also use eco-friendly, plant-based detergents and dispose of wastewater away from natural water sources.

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Find a good parking spot

Finding a good parking spot is a crucial aspect of living in a camper, and here are some detailed tips to help you find the perfect spot to settle in:

Research and Plan:

Before embarking on your journey, take the time to research and plan your parking options. Identify the type of location that best suits your needs, such as storage facilities, campgrounds, private properties, or street parking. Consider factors such as security, amenities, accessibility, regulations, and cost. Make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons or when visiting popular destinations.

National and State Parks:

National and state parks offer beautiful and natural camping spots. These sites tend to be more spread out and provide a more authentic outdoor experience. However, they can fill up quickly, especially during the warmer months, so it's advisable to make reservations ahead of time.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land:

Dispersed camping on BLM land is a favourite among vanlifers. BLM land is usually free and abundant, offering seclusion and peace away from crowded campsites. However, keep in mind that these sites often lack amenities like showers and power hookups, so be prepared for off-grid camping.

Retail and Business Parking Lots:

Many retailers and businesses, such as Walmart, Cracker Barrel, Cabela's, and Camping World, allow overnight parking for campers and RVs. These locations often have good security and ample space. Always call ahead to confirm the policy, as it may vary by city or location.

Truck Stops and Rest Areas:

Truck stops and rest areas are convenient options for overnight stays. Flying J Truck Stops, for example, offer free overnight parking, RV dump stations, potable water, and propane services (for a fee). Rest areas along highways can also provide a safe place to stop for the night when you're on a long drive.

Urban Boondocking:

When camping in urban areas, look for metered street parking or alternate side parking spots. Keep your blinds drawn, be considerate, and avoid parking near schools or playgrounds. If possible, park near a street light to disguise your lights, and set an alarm to leave before parking restrictions take effect.

Non-Traditional Campsites:

Consider non-traditional options like Harvest Hosts, which connects you with businesses that allow camping on their property for a fee. Couchsurfing and Warmshowers are also great communities to find unique and affordable camping spots, especially if you're open to connecting with locals and other travellers.

Ask for Recommendations:

Tap into the camper and RV communities to seek recommendations and referrals. Fellow travellers, friends, and local communities can provide valuable insights on the best parking spots, including hidden gems that may not appear in online searches.

Remember to be respectful and follow the rules and regulations of each parking location. Always leave your campsite cleaner than you found it, and be considerate of the locals and other campers.

Frequently asked questions

Living in a camper can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging. On the plus side, camper life can be a more cost-effective way of living, and it gives you the freedom to travel and explore. However, you may find that you miss the sense of community that comes with staying in one place, and the lack of space, amenities and access to civilisation can be difficult to adjust to.

The right camper for you will depend on your travel style and budget. If you're planning to travel in cold climates, for example, you'll want a four-season camper with insulated tanks and double-paned windows. If you want to be able to take your camper off-road, you'll need to choose one that's nimble and has good ground clearance. If you're planning to boondock (camping for free, typically in nature), you'll want a camper with a large water tank.

Driving a camper can be daunting at first, but with practice, you'll feel more confident. Before you set off, make sure you're aware of your vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) – the maximum weight it can safely be driven at. Always drive slowly and be aware of your blind spots, and give yourself plenty of room to react. If you're towing a trailer, anti-sway bars and emergency brakes are a must.

You can get internet access in your camper by using your phone's data plan to create a hotspot, or by investing in satellite internet.

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