Choosing an RV for full timers
Hi guys, we are new to RVing but are very enthusiastic. We are looking to buy our first RV and live in it full time. We heard people refer to it as “Full timing.” We’re hoping to get some tips from al...
Forum Discussion
X2 on what Donn pointed out about the back door. I have a friend who will not take his TH unit out in the winter as the heater just won't keep up with really cold nights. You don't mention where you will live so if you are in the South, that might not concern you. For a tow vehicle, bigger is always better. a 3/4 ton truck will have more towing capacity and bigger brakes. Also, for full time living, be sure the unit has the 'arctic package' or whatever the particular mfg calls it. Many travel trailers sold in the South have water lines exposed to the outside temperatures. If you will be living where it freezes, this is a BIG issue. Units intended for colder climates have the plumbing up inside the heated space. Something important to consider is if the wiring (especially on an older unit) is up to powering an electric heater. Many RVs burn each winter from an overloaded circuit. This can be remedied by adding a dedicated heater socket with heavier wiring. Not too expensive to do and provides much peace of mind.
Also, as Donn said, don't expect 'full timing' to be living on the cheap. Apartment living is a good comparison. You do have to pay for a place to park it and you will find maintaining it a continuing expense. RVs are considerably less durable than a regular house and keeping up with water leaks is only one of the necessary and ongoing tasks. Also as Ten pointed out, there are RVs for weekenders and RVs intended for more permanent use. Shopping for our last motorhome we had a salesman who was familiar with this and pointed out the differences in storage between the units we looked at and how some were more suited than others for extended occupancy.
Also, as Donn said, don't expect 'full timing' to be living on the cheap. Apartment living is a good comparison. You do have to pay for a place to park it and you will find maintaining it a continuing expense. RVs are considerably less durable than a regular house and keeping up with water leaks is only one of the necessary and ongoing tasks. Also as Ten pointed out, there are RVs for weekenders and RVs intended for more permanent use. Shopping for our last motorhome we had a salesman who was familiar with this and pointed out the differences in storage between the units we looked at and how some were more suited than others for extended occupancy.
